Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 118.djvu/4155

 118 STAT. 4125 PROCLAMATION 7777—APR. 30, 2004 USA Freedom Corps, more than half a million older Americans do- nated time to their communities last year, and many others are volun- teering through the Peace Corps and other programs. My Administration is committed to helping our senior citizens lead better, healthier, and longer lives. Late last year, I was proud to sign into law the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Mod- ernization Act of 2003. This historic legislation represents the greatest improvement in senior health care since President Lyndon Johnson signed the Social Security Act Amendments that created Medicare in 1965. It gives seniors access to affordable prescription drug coverage, provides for preventive screenings to diagnose and treat health condi- tions early, and updates the Medicare system to let seniors choose cov- erage that best meets their needs. These changes are vital to ensuring that seniors can obtain the health care and prescription drugs they de- serve. Older Americans help others to understand the past, and they teach timeless lessons of courage, endurance, and love. Through their legacy of patriotism, service, and responsibility, America’s seniors also unite families and communities and serve as role models for younger genera- tions. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Con- stitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2004 as Older Americans Month. I commend older Americans for the con- tributions they make to our communities. I further commend Federal officials, State, and local governments, tribal organizations, service and health care providers, caregivers, volunteers, and all those who work on behalf of our senior citizens. I encourage all Americans to honor their elders and publicly reaffirm our Nation’s commitment to older Americans during this month and throughout the year. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-eighth. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7777 of April 30, 2004 National Charter Schools Week, 2004 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation America looks to its schools to give all students the skills they need to realize their dreams and reach their potential. Charter schools help fulfill this mission. During National Charter Schools Week, we cele- brate the successes of these institutions. Charter schools are an important part of our effort to improve the pub- lic school system and offer broader educational options to every fam- ily. Like other public schools, charter schools are open to all students. Because they are subject to fewer State and district regulations than VerDate 11-MAY-2000 15:04 Nov 10, 2005 Jkt 029194 PO 00000 Frm 00091 Fmt 8087 Sfmt 8087 C:\STATUTES\2004\29194PT4.004 APPS10 PsN: 29194PT4

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