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For immediate release:  May 16, 2007 (Clyde, NC)

HRMC President Recognized as Grassroots Champion

The American Hospital Association (AHA), in partnership with the North Carolina Hospital Association awarded David Rice, President, Haywood Regional Medical Center with the Partnership for Action Grassroots Champion Award in Washington D.C. on May 7. As a 2007 Grassroots Champion, Rice is being recognized for his exceptional leadership in generating grassroots and community activity in support of a hospital’s mission.

The Partnership for Action Grassroots Champion Award was created to recognize those hospital leaders who most effectively educate elected officials on how major issues affect the hospital’s vital role in the community, who have done an exemplary job in broadening the base of community support for the hospital, and is a tireless advocate for the hospital and its patients.

Rich Umbdenstock, president, American Hospital Association noted that Rice’s leadership and dedication to promoting the mission of hospitals has added a strong voice on a local and national level. “The compassion and hard work you have demonstrated has made a difference for your patients and your community and has earned you this special recognition,” Umbdenstock said.

"Dave Rice is an energetic and enthusiastic hospital representative," said Bill Pully, president of the North Carolina Hospital Association. "He encourages his peers across the state, as well as his own hospital staff, to take an active role in advocacy on behalf of hospitals and their missions. Whether he’s speaking to local business leaders in Haywood County or legislators in Raleigh or Washington, David promotes support for community hospitals with a positive attitude and a compelling message. David’s tireless efforts and enthusiastic support have strengthened hospital advocacy throughout North Carolina.”

For his advocacy work benefiting hospitals in North Carolina, David Rice, President of HRMC, received kudos in Washington DC on May 7 from the American Hospital Association.