Proclamations Proc. 7272 ment of heart attacks, and prevention of recurrent cardiovascular events, such as second strokes. The work of researchers at the National Human Genome Research Institute of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) also holds great promise for the fight against heart disease. With the completion of their monumental project of mapping and sequencing all human chromosomes, we will soon have the capability to identify at birth all those who are genetically pre- disposed to heart disease and provide them with the treatment and guid- ance they need through the years to live longer, healthier lives. The Federal Government will continue to support research and public edu- cation to improve heart health through the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, also at NIH. And all Americans should remain grateful that the American Heart Association, through its research and education programs and its vital network of dedicated volunteers, maintains a crucial role in bringing about much-needed advances in the prevention and treatment of heart disease. In recognition of the importance of the ongoing fight against cardiovascular disease, the Congress, by Joint Resolution approved December 20, 1963 (77 Stat. 843; 36 U.S.C. 101b), has requested that the President issue an annual proclamation designating February as "American Heart Month." NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim February 2000 as American Heart Month. I invite the Governors of the States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, officials of other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and the American people to join me in reaffirming our commitment to combating cardiovascular disease and strokes. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of Feb- ruary, in the year of our Lord two thousand, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fourth. WILLIAM J. CLINTON Proclamation 7272 of February 11, 2000 National Consumer Protection Week, 2000 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Americans have long enjoyed shopping from the comfort of their homes. Door-to-door sales and mail-order catalogs have given consumers the op- portunity to choose from a wide variety of products while saving precious time for family and personal interests. As we move into the digital age, the Internet and other information technologies have made electronic com- merce possible, and on-line shopping is opening doors for consumers, es- tablished retailers, and small entrepreneurs across the Nation. With these opportunities, however, come certain risks for home shoppers. Advances in telecommunications and marketing technology bring new opportunities for unfair, deceptive, or fraudulent practices that target consumers where they live. It is now easier than ever for perpetrators of fraud to reach shoppers 23
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