Proc. 7609 Title 3--The President approximately 30 years. In addition, advances in antibiotic therapy and the management of lung and digestive problems have improved the quality of life for these individuals. Recent genetic research may also accelerate the discovery of a cure. To help advance the work to end cystic fibrosis, my Administration is dedicated to increasing Federal funding for medical research at the National Institutes of Health. Until cystic fibrosis is eliminated, we are hopeful that our re- search efforts will continue to extend and improve the quality of life of those stricken with this grave disease. 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 October 13 through October 19, 2002, as National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Week. I call upon all Americans to observe this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eleventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independ- ence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7609 of October 11, 2002 National School Lunch Week, 2002 By the President of the United States of Arnerica A Proclamation The future success of our Nation depends on our children's healthy devel- opment. Since 1946, the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) has made important contributions to the well-being of our school children. As part of the NSLP, more than 96,000 schools and residential childcare institu- tions serve more than 27 million children each day. In addition to pro- viding young people with nutritious meals, this program supports the aca- demic mission of our schools and helps to ensure that all our Nation's chil- dren reach their full potential. To avoid the formation of poor eating habits, which are generally estab- lished during childhood, we must encourage positive choices that fulfill di- etary recommendations. It is critical that our children eat sufficient amounts of fruits and vegetables, reduce fat in their diets, and consume es- sential nutrients in an overall diet with appropriate calories. By making modest improvements to their diets and increasing physical activities, chil- dren can dramatically improve their overall health. To help meet this goal, the Department of Agriculture launched the School Meals Initiative for Healthy Children. This plan empowers schools to serve "kid-friendly" meals that meet the recommendations defined in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the Food Guide Pyramid. Through Team Nu- trition, a comprehensive, behavior-based plan, the USDA assists schools by supporting food service personnel with important training. New recipes are now created by teams of dietitians and chefs, and then taste-tested by chil- 150
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