NEWS RELEASE WASHINGTON, D.C.

Contact: Adam Czech (651) 602-7799

GROUND BROKEN ON NEW MEDICAL CENTER IN ST. JAMES
Rural tour attends groundbreaking; USDA Rural Development helped finance project

     ST. JAMES, Minn., August 9, 2006--A group of about 50 rural leaders, stakeholders and policy-makers joined residents of St. James today to celebrate the ground breaking of the new St. James Area Medical Center, funded with USDA Rural Development support.

     The group is in the middle of an "Innovative Rural Development Initiatives Tour" throughout South Dakota, Iowa and southern Minnesota. Agriculture Under Secretary for Rural Development Thomas C. Dorr was the key-note speaker at the groundbreaking.

     USDA Rural Development helped finance the new medical center with a $16,350,000 guaranteed loan through Pee Dee Farm Credit Services. St. James Area Medical Center also conducted a capital campaign.

     "Improving rural health care is one of the most critical investments any community can make. It enhances the quality of life and makes the community more attractive to new families, new businesses, and new jobs, said Dorr. "What you are doing here today will pay dividends for many years down the road. It is a privilege for us to be a part of it."

     Also speaking at the event was U.S. Congressman Gil Gutknecht, USDA Rural Development Minnesota State Director Steve Wenzel, and St. James Area Medical Center Administrator Dawn Wells.

     The new facility emphasizes outpatient and ambulatory care services. The outpatient clinic and emergency and surgery rooms will more than double in size. The facility will also be equipped with the latest medical equipment record systems. The 52,400 square foot facility will also focus on natural lighting, enhanced patient safety, and easy access to equipment for staff.

     For more information on USDA Rural Development, visit www.rurdev.usda.gov; or call the local office in Marshall at (507) 532-3234.

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