November 5, 2008

To our CCA employees,

The nation watched. We witnessed history unfolding. And today, we move ahead. As individuals, whether we are Democrat or Republican, whether we are thankful for the outcome of the election or disappointed that our candidate did not win, we exercised our right to vote in this electric election, and now we take it all in. We assess what these potentially dramatic changes may mean to each of us, personally, and for our corporation professionally. With tightening economic times on our nation's soil, troubling wars and challenging foreign policies, I am proud that we live in a country where people, regardless of divisive political stances, can join together in unity to recommit to our country's singular best interest.

I grew up in an era that faced racial division, fear and struggles. I'm now witness, as we all are, to a president who will help this entire country see beyond prejudice. That, in and of itself and aside from the political posturing that the election has created, has moved me. Perhaps like it also has moved each of you, whether you are in a rural community or a sprawling metropolitan city, whether you enjoy politics or do not take political action.

I am so proud to be the leader of your company. I hold our company's vision, mission and guiding principles with the highest regard, knowing that we each care about serving our country, our government customers, our co-workers, our offenders, and our public. We are a collection of 17,000 employees who serve. Just as we desire our country to be the strongest it can be, we also desire our company to reach for new prosperity – not just financial prosperity, but success in knowing we are living up to our own highest expectations. We value quality, innovation and integrity – all key components of the CCA Way. These beliefs are also drivers that have made our country the leader in the world and will help shape the world we leave for our children and grandchildren. This month, I became a grandfather for the ninth time, so this discussion of the shaping of our country and what my generation will leave behind is especially personal.

I cannot predict what path the new President, House and Senate will take towards bettering our country. Nor can I precisely predict how their philosophies and regulations may influence our company.

One thing I know for certain, though, is that for 25 years, CCA has listened intently to our government customers – on both sides of political lines – to promptly, effectively meet their needs. Our strength is our ability to shape solutions to challenges. Under this new Administration, CCA will continue to closely work with all of our government partners to effect positive solutions to the nation's correctional system.

I have to believe that our elected leaders, when faced with staggering budget deficits and economic worries, will look to the best and brightest examples of government efficiency and high standards, and that they will see our company as an example of what is good, of what is working. They will see CCA being a strong steward of taxpayer dollars. They will see us creating meaningful jobs for willing workers. They will see us being committed to safe, secure corrections in a humane environment that fosters the belief that everyone can have a chance for betterment if they are given respect and hope.

I thank each of you for what you do to serve this country – and this company – every day.

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