pd10mr03 Directive on Management of Domestic Incidents...

	Web GovRecords.org

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Colorectal cancer touches the lives of many Americans. This year, it 
is estimated that more than 148,000 new cases of colorectal cancer will 
be diagnosed. More than 56,000 people may die from this disease, making 
it a leading cause of cancer death in our Nation. We have achieved great 
progress in understanding what causes

[[Page 265]]

colorectal cancer, and how it develops and spreads. This fourth national 
observance once again helps increase awareness. Increased awareness can 
help us reach my Administration's goal, known as ``Healthy People 
2010,'' administered by the Department of Health and Human Services, to 
reduce the rate of colorectal cancer deaths by 34 percent by the year 
2010.
    Like many cancers, the development of colorectal cancer can take 
many years. Screening is an important tool to help detect colorectal 
cancer early by identifying precancerous growths or polyps, when 
treatment is more likely to be successful.
    More than 90 percent of people who are diagnosed with colorectal 
cancer are over the age of 50. Yet, recent data indicates that less than 
40 percent of adults age 50 or older have had one of the available 
colorectal cancer screening tests within recommended intervals. 
Researchers estimate that if everyone age 50 or older received regular 
colorectal cancer screenings, at least one-third of the deaths would be 
prevented.
    Individuals must realize the importance of talking with their 
healthcare providers about when to begin screening, which tests to have, 
the benefits and risks of each test, and how often to schedule 
appointments. To help our citizens detect this disease, the Centers for 
Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) provides Medicare coverage for 
regular colorectal cancer screening tests to help detect precancerous 
conditions or colorectal cancer early.
    The National Cancer Institute (NCI), a component of the National 
Institutes of Health, is the Nation's principal research agency in the 
fight against colorectal cancer. The NCI invested approximately $245 
million in 2002, and it will dedicate an estimated $267 million this 
year to advance our understanding of this disease. The Centers for 
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also plays an important role in our 
efforts to save lives and reduce the burden of colorectal cancer. Last 
year, the CDC allocated $12 million to educate the public and health 
professionals about colorectal cancer screening, and to conduct and 
support research efforts related to increasing national colorectal 
cancer screening rates.
    The CDC, CMS, and NCI are participating together in the Screen for 
Life: National Colorectal Cancer Action Campaign to educate Americans 
aged 50 and older, particularly minority groups, about the benefits of 
colorectal cancer screening. Another coordinated effort is the Health 
Disparities Collaboratives, a public-private partnership that involves 
the Health Resources and Services Administration, CDC, NCI, and the 
Institute for Healthcare Improvement. These groups are focusing on 
screening and follow-up care for people who traditionally lack access to 
quality health care.
    During this month, I encourage Americans to join me in the crucial 
effort to save lives by taking action against colorectal cancer by 
talking with healthcare providers about screening, telling friends and 
family members about the importance of early detection, and providing 
support for those diagnosed with colorectal cancer. By working together 
to increase awareness and supporting research about this disease, we can 
make a difference in the lives of our citizens and people around the 
world.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 2003 as National 
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. I call upon all Americans to reaffirm 
our Nation's continuing commitment to controlling and curing colorectal 
cancer.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth 
day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
seventh.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 9:11 a.m., March 4, 
2003]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on March 
5. This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate 
issue.

[[Page 266]]


<DOC>
[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents]
 [frwais.access.gpo.gov]
                         

[Page 266-267]
 
Pages 263-311
 
Week Ending Friday, March 7, 2003
 
Proclamation 7651--Women's History Month, 2003

 February 28, 2003

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    As our Founding Fathers worked to develop the framework of our 
Nation, Abigail Adams wrote to her husband: ``I long to hear that you 
have declared an independency--and by the way in the new Code of Laws 
which I suppose it will be necessary for you to make I desire you would 
Remember the Ladies, and be more generous and favorable to them than 
your ancestors.'' An early advocate of women's rights, a farm and 
financial manager, and the mother of an American President, John Quincy 
Adams, Abigail Adams is one of many American women who helped establish 
the strength and vitality of our Nation. During Women's History Month, 
we recognize the generations of American women whose important 
contributions continue to shape our Nation and enrich our society.
    Through vision, hard work, and determination, countless American 
women have broadened opportunities for themselves and for others at 
home, in the community, and in the workplace. In 1809, Mary Kies became 
the first woman to receive a U.S. patent. By developing a method of 
weaving straw with silk, she helped advance American industry and set an 
inspiring example for other American women. Her pioneering efforts 
helped define our country's entrepreneurial spirit and paved the way for 
future generations of women to take pride in their talents and 
creativity.
    Since Mary Kies' groundbreaking achievement, many American women 
have become successful entrepreneurs and business professionals. In 
1905, Madam C.J. Walker started her own business by creating and selling 
hair care products for African-American women. After a decade, her 
company was highly successful and employed more than 3,000 people, and 
at the time, was the largest African-American owned business in the 
United States. Today, Madam Walker is remembered for her business 
accomplishments, efforts to create new opportunities for women, and for 
her contributions to her community.
    Driven by the legacy of these extraordinary figures, American women 
from all backgrounds continue to break barriers and fulfill their 
personal and professional potential. At the dawn of the 21st century, 
women have more choices than ever before. Between 1992 and 2002, the 
number of female college graduates in the United States has increased 
from 15.9 million to 23.6 million. Women account for 47 percent of all 
employed persons and are entering the American workforce in record 
numbers. In the last 10 years, their ranks have increased by 8.7 
million. Furthermore, women-owned small businesses are growing twice as 
fast as all other U.S. firms, employing 7 million Americans and 
contributing to the vitality of our economy. To build on these 
successes, my Administration will continue our work to promote policies 
that advance the aspirations, hopes, and dreams of every American.
    This month, as we celebrate remarkable women in our Nation's past, I 
encourage all citizens to recognize the countless American women whose 
efforts continue to enhance the economic, social, and cultural life of 
our great Nation.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 2003 as Women's 
History Month. I call upon all the people of the United States to 
observe this month with appropriate ceremonies and activities and to 
remember throughout the year the many contributions of American women.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth 
day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
seventh.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 9:12 a.m., March 4, 
2003]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on March 
5. This item was not

[[Page 267]]

received in time for publication in the appropriate issue.


<DOC>
[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents]
 [frwais.access.gpo.gov]
                         

[Page 267]
 
Pages 263-311
 
Week Ending Friday, March 7, 2003
 
Proclamation 7652--Save Your Vision Week, 2003

 February 28, 2003

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Each year, the number of Americans who suffer from vision loss 
increases, yet half of all blindness can be prevented through early 
detection and treatment. During Save Your Vision Week, we renew our 
commitment to protecting eyesight by promoting healthy eye care and by 
encouraging Americans to receive routine vision screenings and dilated 
eye exams.
    Our sense of sight affects how we work, communicate, and learn. All 
Americans must be aware of the risk of vision loss and take steps to 
preserve and protect their eyesight, beginning with getting regular eye 
exams, using the appropriate protective eyewear, and maintaining a 
healthy lifestyle. These small steps can make a big difference. When 
Americans take responsibility for improving their health, our whole 
society benefits.
    Healthy vision is especially critical to our children's ability to 
receive a good education and establish a strong foundation in life. 
According to the American Optometric Association, 80 percent of learning 
depends on vision, yet 86 percent of children entering school have not 
had a thorough eye examination. Due to hereditary and prenatal factors, 
from a very early age, many children are at high risk for potentially 
severe eye diseases, including retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), 
amblyopia, and congenital glaucoma. One in four kids will develop myopia 
as teenagers. Children need regular eye care from birth to prevent and 
treat conditions that lead to visual impairment and blindness. Parents 
play a key role in obtaining eye care for their children and must be 
knowledgeable about the potential threats to a child's eyesight. For the 
future of our Nation, it is vital that we care for the visual health and 
well-being of America's children so they are able to reach their full 
potential.
    As part of my HealthierUS Initiative and my Administration's ongoing 
commitment to helping the American people live healthier lives, I 
encourage all Americans to get preventative health screenings. These 
screenings may tell you if you are prone to developing certain diseases, 
can help protect your vision, and could even save your life. I 
particularly urge parents to ask their children's doctors about vision 
screenings and eye exams, which can help ensure eye diseases and 
conditions are detected and treated early, when treatment is most 
effective. Through education about healthy vision and promotion of good 
eye care, we help protect the eyesight of countless people across our 
Nation.
    The Congress, by joint resolution approved December 30, 1963, as 
amended (77 Stat. 629; 36 U.S.C. 138), has authorized and requested the 
President to proclaim the first week in March of each year as ``Save 
Your Vision Week.'' During this week, I encourage all Americans to learn 
more about ways to prevent eye problems and to help others maintain the 
precious gift of sight.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, do hereby proclaim March 2 through March 8, 2003, as Save 
Your Vision Week. I urge all Americans to make eye care and eye safety 
an important part of their lives and to include dilated eye examinations 
in their regular health maintenance programs. I invite eye care 
professionals, teachers, the media, and all public and private 
organizations dedicated to preserving eyesight to join in activities 
that will raise awareness of measures all Americans can take to protect 
and sustain our vision.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth 
day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
seventh.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 9:12 a.m., March 4, 
2003]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on March 
5. This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate 
issue.

[[Page 268]]


<DOC>
[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents]
 [frwais.access.gpo.gov]
                         

[Page 268-280]
 
Pages 263-311
 
Week Ending Friday, March 7, 2003
 
Executive Order 13286--Amendment of Executive Orders, and Other Actions, 
in Connection With the Transfer of Certain Functions to the Secretary of 
Homeland Security

February 28, 2003

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and 
the laws of the United States of America, including the Homeland 
Security Act of 2002 (Public Law 107-296) and section 301 of title 3, 
United States Code, and in order to reflect the transfer of certain 
functions to, and other responsibilities vested in, the Secretary of 
Homeland Security, the transfer of certain agencies and agency 
components to the Department of Homeland Security, and the delegation of 
appropriate responsibilities to the Secretary of Homeland Security, it 
is hereby ordered as follows:
    Section 1. Executive Order 13276 of November 15, 2002 (``Delegation 
of Responsibilities Concerning Undocumented Aliens Interdicted or 
Intercepted in the Caribbean Region''), is amended by:
    (a) striking ``The Attorney General'' wherever it appears in section 

Other Popular 2003 Presidential Documents Documents:

Other Documents:

2003 Presidential Documents Records and Documents