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Senator Packwood Fundraiser 9/19/91 [OA 6036] [1]
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Senator Packwood Fundraiser 9/19/91 [OA 6036] [1]
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Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
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Speechwriting, White House Office of
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Folder Title:
Senator Packwood Fundraiser 9/19/91 [OA 6036] [1]
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26
17
3
3
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 SEP 17 P4: 44
DATE:
9/17/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
---
SUBJECT: REDRAFT OF PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
PETERSMEYER
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
SMITH
BROMLEY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
KAUFMAN
DEMAREST
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Blymire)
September 17, 1991 11 a.m.
PACKWOOD.TS Draft Four
01 SEF 17 P2: 34
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
September 19, 1991
Portland, Oregon
I'm delighted to be here -- though I'm not used to being up
this early without a fishing pole. III It's been about a year
since I've been in the "City of Roses." Portland's a special
place -though, you know, if you had to borrow a name from a town
in Maine, I think "Kennebunkport" has a nice ring to it. III
I've got to say, it's been an amazing month or so in our
world. Before Congress went on recess, a few remnants of the
Cold War remained intact. By the time it had returned, a coup
tried to unseat Mikhail Gorbachev -- and instead applied the coup
de grace to communism. //
Now, world leaders seem to spend most of their time pursuing
peace, rather than worrying about potential superpower
confrontations. Now, we must deal with resurgent nationalism;
the re-emergence of feuds that would make the Hatfields and
McCoys look like peacemakers. But we also have an unprecedented
opportunity to build a new era of peace and prosperity -- here
and abroad.
None of these changes would have taken place if the United
States hadn't remained firmly committed to the cause of freedom
over the years and if -- in this year's tense debates about the
Gulf -- Congress hadn't authorized the use of force to stop a
brutal dictator.
2
Bob Packwood was one of those people who stood with me in
that historic debate. And that's just one reason why I'm happy
to join him here today. He's a force on the Hill. You know his
accomplishments as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee,
where he's now the ranking Republican -- and his influence on tax
reform and employee benefits. You know of the impact he's had in
free enterprise, trade, and deregulation -- especially when he
was Chairman of the Commerce, Science and Transportation
Committee.
But I want to tell you this -- and tell you urgently -- you
must return Bob to the Senate. His 23 years -- it'll be 24 at
election time -- of seniority make him a solid leader of strength
and experience. This country needs him and the Republican party
needs him -- as a spokesman and a leader. Bob works behind the
scenes to make sure the Republican message is heard.
And if that message isn't listened to -- we face trouble. 'I
spoke to Congress 197 days ago, and I issued a simple challenge.
I said: If America can defeat a brutal dictator in a matter of
weeks, then surely its legislative body can manage to pass two
bills the Administration's crime and transportation bills --
within 100 days. 11
Well, almost twice that time has elapsed -- and we still do
not have those, bills. It's clear that the Democrats have no
desire to help us advance our domestic agenda. Their
"alternative" is not a domestic agenda -- it's a political one
-- to block our agenda. 11
3
Occasionally, we've been able to break the logjam -- we're
proud of our Clean Air Act; the Americans with Disabilities Act;
and our success with child care. But we can succeed only with
the help of the American people. To continue the fight, we need
you to elect and re-elect leaders who care about this country --
strong, competent, principled men and women like Bob Packwood.
And to continue this nation's victories, the American people
must rediscover their own genius. That's the heart of this
Administration's domestic philosophy -- the concept that the true
power and potential in this land must rest in the hands of our
people. Our domestic policy begins by trusting you.
Our domestic agenda tries to carry that faith forward into
the future. Our housing proposals would turn housing residents
into homeowners; it relies on the belief that our public housing
citizens can care for themselves and contribute to our society.
Our energy package attempts to conserve energy while encouraging
innovation. Our transportation package gives more power to local
authorities, who know their own needs. And our crime package --
the most comprehensive in American history -- tries to give our
streets back to the people.
In each case, we want Washington to give power back to the
people, and give them a chance to shape their own destinies --
rather than having to answer to distant bureaucrats.
And this philosophy serves as the foundation for an issue I
would like to discuss today: Education.
Our democracy can remain vital only if we continue to grow
4
in knowledge and wisdom: understanding the increasingly complex
and competitive world in which we live.
We Americans can and must revitalize our education system
for our children -- our future. We don't want just a good
education system. We want the best. We deserve a system that
will give every citizen the power to throw open his or her own
door of opportunity.
I came to this job believing that education is our most
enduring legacy -- vital to everything that we are and everything
we can become. I believe it even more strongly now.
Five months ago we issued a challenge called "America 2000"
-- a call to reinvent American education. This initiative
sketched out the framework for a national education strategy made
up of four elements: accountable schools for today -- a new
generation of schools for tomorrow -- a nation of students
committed to a lifetime of education -- and communities where
learning can happen.
You play the critical role in making the strategy work. You
must ensure that each of your communities as a whole engages in
this commitment to education. People who want Washington to
solve all problems are missing the point. What happens there
doesn't matter half as much as what happens in each hometown.
Every person, every school, every town must join this special
national army -- an army undertaking the most important crusade
of all -- the crusade to prepare our children and ourselves for
our country's future. You can -- you must -- make our
5
communities places where learning can happen.
Let me give you examples of what your fellow Oregonians are
already doing to help improve education around them. The
National Guard, a Willamette University fraternity, Kiwanians and
individuals joined together to "adopt" Salem's Richmond
Elementary School, which serves a large migrant population. This
community so enriches the lives of the students and the school
that they won this year's Governor's Volunteerism Award -- and
the district award for outstanding business/school partnership.
In Albany, more than 2000 residents have come together to
focus on the district's 22 schools through a remarkable business
partnership program begun by the Chamber of Commerce. In West
Linn, not only do parents assist teachers in classrooms, but over
50 percent of middle school science students have been given the
chance to strengthen lessons learned in schools through local
internships as part of a program called "Future Makers."
And then there's my favorite place -- well, I like the name,
at least -- Salem's Bush Elementary School. Everyone in the
community has joined to give this school new life, and make it a
centerpiece of community life. In this school, where 75 percent
of families live below the poverty level, and one-third speak no
English, residents set up an "Even Start" literacy program for
kids and parents.
Local college students provide tutoring, mentoring, and help
with therapy groups. Volunteers from businesses, hospitals, and
the community contribute to weekly tutoring programs. Anyone can
6
join: 85-year-old Esther Wilson has been working with at-risk
kids in Salem for nine years. Members of a local church help
students with languages -- but they're also building a
playground. In Salem, you see, people understand that you must
help kids be students -- without forgetting that they're kids,
and ought to experience life's joys as well. The community
encourages parents to volunteer to do anything at all -- this
enriches the school and makes citizens feel better about
themselves.
There are thousands of stories like these; and you can write
your own versions in your own neighborhoods. America can't
afford to wait -- or waste -- a generation. As we look ahead to
the year 2000 we must answer the call -- "Let tomorrow begin
today."
Here in Oregon, we must answer that call by working hard to
return Bob Packwood to the Senate. 11
Thank you for this chance to visit with you here in
Portland. I'll remember this day next spring when I welcome the
Trailblazers to the White House after they win the NBA title. 11
Oh, boy -- that's going to get me in trouble later, because my
next stop is Los Angeles. And tomorrow I visit -- you guessed it
-- Chicago. 11
Well, again, thanks for your welcome and your support. God
bless you all.
#
#
#
#
#
(Hinchliffe/Blymire)
September 17, 1991 11 a.m.
PACKWOOD.TS Draft Four
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
September 19, 1991
Portland, Oregon
I'm delighted to be here -- though I'm not used to being up
this early without a fishing pole. III It's been about a year
since I've been in the "City of Roses.' Portland's a special
place --though, you know, if you had to borrow a name from a town
in Maine, I think "Kennebunkport" has a nice ring to it. 111
I've got to say, it's been an amazing month or so in our.
world. Before Congress went on recess, a few remnants of the
Cold War remained intact. By the time it had returned, a coup
tried to unseat Mikhail Gorbachev -- and instead applied the coup
de grace to communism. //
Now, world leaders seem to spend most of their time pursuing
peace, rather than worrying about potential superpower
confrontations. Now, we must deal with resurgent nationalism;
the re-emergence of feuds that would make the Hatfields and
McCoys look like peacemakers. But we also have an unprecedented
opportunity to build a new era of peace and prosperity -- here
and abroad.
None of these changes would have taken place if the United
States hadn't remained firmly committed to the cause of freedom
over the years and if -- in last year's tense debates about the
Gulf -- Congress hadn't authorized the use of force to stop a
brutal dictator.
2
Bob Packwood was one of those people who stood with me last
year -- in that historic debate. And that's just one reason why
I'm happy to join him here today. He's a force on the Hill. You
know his accomplishments as Chairman of the Senate Finance
Committee, where he's now the ranking Republican -- and his
influence on tax reform and employee benefits. You know of the
impact he's had in free enterprise, trade, and deregulation
especially when he was Chairman of the Commerce, Science and
Transportation Committee.
But I want to tell you this -- and tell you urgently you
must return Bob to the Senate. His 23 years -- it'll be 24 at
election time -- of seniority make him a solid leader of strength
and experience. This country needs him and the Republican party
needs him -- as a spokesman and a leader. Bob works behind the
scenes to make sure the Republican message is heard.
And if that message isn't listened to -- we face trouble. I
spoke to Congress 197 days ago, and I issued a simple challenge.
I said: If America can defeat a brutal dictator in a matter of
weeks, then surely its legislative body can manage to pass two
bills the Administration's crime and transportation bills ---
within 100 days. 11
Well, almost twice that time has elapsed -- and we still do.-
not have those bills. It's clear that the Democrats have no
desire to help us advance our domestic agenda. Their
"alternative" is not a domestic agenda -- it's a political one
-- to block our agenda.
3
Occasionally, we've been able to break the logjam -- we're
proud of our Clean Air Act; the Americans with Disabilities Act;
and our success with child care. But we can succeed only with
the help of the American people. To continue the fight, we need
you to elect and re-elect leaders who care about this country ---
strong, competent, principled men and women like Bob Packwood.
And to continue this nation's victories, the American people
must rediscover their own genius. That's the heart of this
Administration's domestic philosophy -- the concept that the true
power and potential in this land must rest in the hands of our
people. Our domestic policy begins by trusting you.
Our domestic agenda tries to carry that faith forward into
the future. Our housing proposals would turn housing residents
into homeowners; it relies on the belief that our public housing
citizens can care for themselves and contribute to our society.
Our energy package attempts to conserve energy while encouraging
innovation. Our transportation package gives more power to local
authorities, who know their own needs. And our crime package
the most comprehensive in American history -- tries to give our
streets back to the people.
In each case, we want Washington to give power back to the
people, and give them a chance to shape their own destinies ---
rather than having to answer to distant bureaucrats.
And this philosophy serves as the foundation for an issue I
would like to discuss today: Education.
Our democracy can remain vital only if we continue to grow
4
in knowledge and wisdom: understanding the increasingly complex
and competitive world in which we live.
We Americans can and must revitalize our education system
for our children -- our future. We don't want just a good
education system. We want the best. We deserve a system that
will give every citizen the power to throw open his or her own
door of opportunity.
I came to this job believing that education is our most
enduring legacy -- vital to everything that we are and everything
we can become. I believe it even more strongly now.
Five months ago we issued a challenge called "America 2000"
-- a call to reinvent American education. This initiative
sketched out the framework for a national education strategy made
up of four elements: accountable schools for today -- a new
generation of schools for tomorrow -- a nation of students
committed to a lifetime of education -- and communities where
learning can happen.
You play the critical role in making the strategy work. You
must ensure that each of your communities as a whole engages in
this commitment to education. People who want Washington to
solve all problems are missing the point. What happens there
doesn't matter half as much as what happens in each hometown.
Every person, every school, every town must join this special
national army -- an army undertaking the most important crusade
of all -- the crusade to prepare our children and ourselves for
our country's future. You can -- you must -- make our
5
communities places where learning can happen.
Let me give you examples of what your fellow Oregonians are
already doing to help improve education around them. The
National Guard, a Willamette University fraternity, Kiwanians and
individuals joined together to "adopt" Salem's Richmond
Elementary School, which serves a large migrant population. This
community so enriches the lives of the students and the school
that they won this year's Governor's Volunteerism Award -- and
the district award for outstanding business/school partnership.
In Albany, more than 2000 residents have come together to
focus on the district's 22 schools through a remarkable business
partnership program begun by the Chamber of Commerce. In West
Linn, not only do parents assist teachers in classrooms, but over
50 percent of middle school science students have been given the
chance to strengthen lessons learned in schools through local
internships as part of a program called "Future Makers."
And then there's my favorite place --- well, I like the name,
at least -- Salem's Bush Elementary School. 11 Everyone in the
community has joined to give this school new life, and make it a
centerpiece of community life. In this school, where 75 percent
of families live below the poverty level, and one-third speak no
English, residents set up an "Even Start" literacy program for
kids and parents.
"
Local college students provide tutoring, mentoring, and help
with therapy groups. Volunteers from businesses, hospitals, and
the community contribute to weekly tutoring programs. Anyone can
6
join: 85-year-old Esther Wilson has been working with at-risk
kids in Salem for nine years. Members of a local church help
students with languages -- but they're also building a
playground. In Salem, you see, people understand that you must
help kids be students -- without forgetting that they're kids,
and ought to experience life's joys as well. The community
encourages parents to volunteer to do anything at all --- this
enriches the school and makes citizens feel better about
themselves.
There are thousands of stories like these; and you can write
your own versions in your own neighborhoods. America can't
afford to wait -- or waste -- a generation. As we look ahead to
the year 2000 we must answer the call -- "Let tomorrow begin
today."
Here in Oregon, we must answer that call by working hard to
return Bob Packwood to the Senate. 11
Thank you for this chance to visit with you here in
Portland. I'll remember this day next spring when I welcome the
Trailblazers to the White House after they win the NBA title. 11
Oh, boy -- that's going to get me in trouble later, because my
next stop is Los Angeles. And tomorrow I visit -- you guessed it
-- Chicago. 11
Well, again, thanks for your welcome and your support. God
bless you all.
#####
THE WHITE HOUSE
office of the Press Secretary
(Los Angeles, California)
For Immediate Release
September 19, 1991
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT FUNDRAISING BREAKFAST FOR
SENATOR BOB PACKWOOD
Oregon Convention Center
Portland, Oregon
8:25 A.M. PDT
THE PRESIDENT: Senator Packwood, thank you for that
warm and personal introduction. May I salute Bill Packwood down here
on the end lest some of you don't recognize this recent graduate of
Penn State who flew out with us today. I was just delighted to see
him. Also pleased that our Secretary of Transportation Sam Skinner,
seating over here, is with us. And he's doing a superb job. We're
going off to Los Angeles right after this breakfast to do a little
more in the transportation front.
I understand that Senator Seymour is here. I haven't
seen him, but senator Seymour of California is with us. John, why
don't you stand up if you are, because I've -- well, so he's not --
where is he? Oh, way back there. (Applause.) He'll be flying down
with us to his state of California.
And may I salute Craig Berkman, who -- my friend of long
longstanding who the Senator and everyone else tells me is doing a
superb job for this party. (Applause.) And Tim Lee, the event
chairman -- he's done a mighty good job also, and I salute him.
Don't let him rest up too much, we're going to need him for more of
these events before this is over, I'm sure. (Applause.)
I also thank the band, the Wilson High School Band over
there; the Waverly Children's Home, who led the Pledge of Allegiance;
and of course, the choir that put great life into our complicated but
wonderfully moving National Anthem. All of them did a first-class
job. (Applause.)
Portland, Oregon -- the "City of Roses." Portland is a
very special place. But I was thinking, if you had to borrow a name
from the state of Maine, how about "Kennebunkport"? Nice ring to it.
But let me say it's been an amazing month or so in our
world. I focus going back to Maine this summer in the month of
August. Before Congress went on recess, a few remnants of the Cold
War remained intact. By the time it had returned -- that Congress
had come back, a coup tried to unseat Mikhail Gorbachev -- and
instead of that, the coup be grace was given to communism itself.
And I couldn't help note, Reverend, your special appeal
about the Baltic States. It's most appropriate as these countries,
once considered satellites -- never by the United states -- but
considered satellites in the Soviet Union are now free, independent
countries, their flags flying at the United Nations as well as over
their own capitals. And that is historic. It's long overdue. And I
take great pleasure, as I know all Americans do, in their
independence. So I'm pleased you mentioned them in your fitting and
lovely invocation.
MORE
SEP-20-1991 15:06 FROM CHICAGO PRESS OFFICE
TO
FITZWATER
F.UD
- 2 -
The changes in the world are indeed staggering and, for
the most part, positive. I am very proud of the fact that it is the
United states of America that is leading the way. You travel abroad
-- and many of you have -- and you see clearly that it is our country
which is out front, helping many new fledgling democracies find their
way -- in Africa, in South America, and Eastern Europe and, yes, in
what used to be an iron Marxist state called the Soviet Union. It is
mind-boggling to think of the changes that have taken place just in
the last six or seven weeks.
We have an unprecedented opportunity to build a new era
of peace and prosperity here and abroad; to build a new world order
where the rule of law prevails over the use of force. None of these
changes would have taken place if the United states had not remained
firmly committed to the cause of freedom. Over the years we stood
firm and in this year's tense debates about the Gulf -- these changes
couldn't have taken place if Congress hadn't authorized the use of
force to stop a brutal dictator.
Bob Packwood was one of those who, against those public
opinion polls of the moment, stood with me in that historic debate.
And that's just one reason, one of many, that I'm happy to join him
here today -- because he is a force for positive good on Capitol
Hill. (Applause.)
You know his accomplishments as Chairman of the Senate
Finance Committee, where he's now the ranking Republican -- his
influence on tax reform and employee benefits. You know the impact
he's had on free enterprise, on trade, and on deregulation --
especially when he was Chairman of Commerce, Science and
Transportation Committee.
But I want to tell you this, and tell you urgently --
and, yes, this 16 a political gathering to honor him -- but you must
return Bob Packwood to the United States Senate. (Applause.) His 23
years -- it will be 24 at election time -- of seniority make him a
solid leader of strength and experience. So we need him. The party
needs him as a spokesman, as a leader.
And Bob effectively works behind the scenes sometimes to
make sure that our message is heard. And it's not easy when you're
up against an automatic moving majority that wants to do things just
the opposite from the way I was elected to perform. And so I'm
delighted he's up there doing that. And one other point: he has a
sound record. He hasn't forgotten the human equation. The fact that
people need jobs and must not be thrown out of work by extreme
environmental positions is known to him. And I don't believe we need
extremes to solve the problem. (Applause.)
If that overall message of his is not listened to, we
do face trouble. I spoke to Congress 197 days ago, and I issued a
simple challenge -- and here, if I might, repeat it. If America can
defeat a brutal dictator in a matter of weeks, then surely its
legislative body can manage to pass two bills --the administration's
crime and transportation bills -- within 100 days. That was in the
State of the Union message 197 days ago.
Well, almost twice that time, that 100 days, has elapsed
-- and we still do not have those ---- bills. And it's clear that the
Democrats have no desire to help us advance what is a sound and
strong domestic agenda. Their alternative is not a domestic agenda -
- it's a political one -- to block our agenda. And we cannot let
that succeed.
Occasionally, we have been able to break the logjam --
we're proud of the Clean Air Act that was passed. I think it's good
environmental policy; I think it's just good plain national policy.
I'm proud of the Americans with Disabilities Act that we managed to
pass last year -- the most forward-looking peace of civil rights
MORE
SEP-20-1991
15:09
FROM
CHICAGO
PRESS
OFFICE
TO
- 3 -
legislation in years. And I'm proud with our success in child care.
But we can succeed only with the help bf the American people. To
continue the fight, we need you to elect and reelect leaders who care
deeply about this country too do who care about the approach that I've
outlined here -- strong, competent, principled men like Bob Packwood.
And to continue this nation's victories, the American
people must rediscover their own genius. That's the heart of our
domestic philosophy that overlies our domestic agenda -- the concept
that the true power and potential in this land must rest in the hands
of the people. Our domestic policy begins by trusting you.
Let me elaborate. Our domestic agenda tries to carry
that faith forward into the future. Our housing proposals, for
example, would turn housing residents into homeowners; would
emphasize tenant management -- letting people in the area itself
manage their own affairs. It relies on the belief that our public
housing citizens can care for themselves and contribute to our
society. Our energy package attempts to conserve energy while
encouraging innovation. The transportation package that Sam Skinner
has been so inventive in gives more power to local authorities, who
know their own needs. The National Drug strategy is all
encompassing, with lots of the most effective work being done by the
private sector and at the local level. And our crime package -- the
most comprehensive in American history -- tries to give our streets
back to the people.
In each case, we want Washington to give power back to
the people and give them a chance to shape their own destinies --
rather than having to answer to distant bureaucrats.
And this philosophy serves as the foundation for an
issue I'd like to just touch on in a little more detail. I'm
talking, of course, about education. Our democracy can remain vital
only if we continue to grow in knowledge and wisdom: understanding
the increasingly complex and competitive world in which we live.
We Americans can and must revitalize our education
system for our children -- for our future. We don't want just a good
education system. We want the best. we deserve a system that will
give every citizen the power to throw open his or her own door of
opportunity.
I came to this job believing that education is our most
enduring legacy -- vital to everything that we are and everything we
can become. I believe it with even more conviction now.
Five months ago we issued a challenge that we call
"America 2000" -- a call to reinvent, revolutionize, if you will,
American education. This initiative sketched out the framework for a
national education strategy made up of four elements: accountable
schools for today -- and I emphasize that word "accountable" -- a new
generation of schools for tomorrow -- not do it the same old way;
each community find a new way to approach the education challenges in
that community, that state; a nation of students committed to a
lifetime of education -- I'm floundering around trying to learn how
to use that computer a little better and I'm getting up there in
years. Nobody is too old to learn -- and a community where learning
can happen. And by that I mean an environment in which education
can take place, in which kids feel free from fear and they can go on
about the business of learning.
Now, you play the critical role in making that strategy
work. You must ensure that each of your communities as a whole
engages in this commitment to education. People who want Washington
to solve all problems are simply missing the point. What happens
there doesn't matter half as much as what happens in each hometown.
Remember, on the total figures for education, six percent is federal
government spending; 94 percent by local and state private entities.
MORE
- 4 -
Every person, every school, every town must join this special
national army -- an army undertaking the most important crusade of
all - the crusade to prepare our children and ourselves for our
country's future. You can -- you must a make our communities places
where learning can happen.
Let me give you just a handful of examples. of what
Oregonians are doing to help improve education around them. The
National Guard, a Willamette University fraternity, Kiwanians and
individuals joined together to "adopt" Salem's Richmond Elementary
School, which serves a large migrant population. This community SO
enriches the lives of the students and the school that they won this
year's Governor's Volunteerism Award and the district award for
outstanding business school partnership.
In Albany, more than 2000 residents have come together
to focus on the district's 22 schools through a remarkable business
partnership program begun, in this case, by the Chamber of Commerce.
In West Linn, not only do parents assist teachers in classrooms, but
over 50 percent of middle school science students have been given the
chance to strengthen lessons learned in schools through local
internships as a part of a program called "Future Makers."
And then there's my favorite place -- I like the name at
least -- Salem's Bush Elementary School. (Laughter.) Everyone there
in that community has joined to give this school new life, and make
it a centerpiece of community life. In this school, where 75 percent
of the families live below the poverty level, and one-third speak no
English, residents set up an "Even Start" literacy program for kids
and parents.
Local college students provide tutoring, mentoring, and
help with therapy groups. Volunteers from businesses, hospitals, and
the community contribute to weekly tutoring programs. Anyone can
join: 85-year-old Esther Wilson has been working with at-risk kids
in Salem for nine years. Members of a local church help students
with languages -- but they're also building a playground. In salem,
you see, people understand that you must help kids be students --
without forgetting that they're kids. That's because kids ought to
experience education as one of life's great joys. The community also
encourages parents to volunteer at the school -- this enriches the
school and makes citizens feel more a part of their children's
education.
There are thousands of stories like this, tens of
thousands across this country. This could never happen 1f somebody
tried to design a program in a subcommittee on education in the House
of Representatives or in the United states senate. It couldn't
happen. You cannot generate that kind of love and that kind of
concern by some federal legislation back in Washington, D.C.
There are thousands of stories like these. And you can
write your own versions in your own neighborhoods. America cannot
afford to wait, or to waste, an entire generation. As we look ahead
today." to the year 2000 we must answer the call -- "Let tomorrow begin
I will stay personally involved. our new Secretary of
Education, Governor Lamar Alexander, is taking a crucial leadership
role in advocating and promoting our program called Iducation 2000.
I don't want to turn what is an upbeat, enthusiastic rally for Bob
Packwood into a lecture on education, but I feel so strongly about
this -- I urge you take a hard look at it. It's not partisan. It
gets all across partisan lines. And it really answers the future
challenge and says that these kids sitting right over here are going
to have a better shot if we get this program fully implemented and
fully into effect.
Here in Oregon, you can do something about it also
because it is part of the philosophical underpinning of our
administration -- and that is to reelect Bob Packwood to the Senate.
SEP-20-1991 15:11 FROM PICAGO PRESS OFFICE
10
FITLWHIER
F.06
- 5 -
You know, I an delighted to be back here in Portland.
I'll remember this day next spring when I welcome the Trailblazers to
the White House after they win the NBA title. (Applause.) But I
reserve the right to change these remarks when I get to Los Angeles.
(Laughter.) And then tomorrow I'm going to be in Chicago, so --
(laughter.)
But listen, let me just say this. I am very privileged
to be President of the United States at this historic time. The
change around the world is so rapid; the ferment and turmoil and
change in our country so challenging. I am blessed. And Barbara
feels exactly the same way as First Lady. And if I might say a word
about her, I think she is doing a superb job as she travels around
teaching literacy in this country. (Applause.)
But the longer I'm in this job, the more convinced I am
that to get the job done, to finish what SO many of you helped me
begin, I need good people that look at these broad views
philosophically the way we do. sure, there are going to be
differences on one issue or another. But the big thing is Bob
Packwood and I share this philosophical underpinning that the best
answer is to keep government as close as possible to home. That's
education, that's fighting drugs -- whatever it is.
And so, let me just say, please, go all out in '92 and
return this good man to the United states senate.
Thank you all very, very much. (Applause.)
Well, again, thanks for your welcome and your support.
God bless you all.
END
8:44 A.M. PDT
THE WHITE HOUSE
office of the Press secretary
(Los Angeles, California)
For Immediate Release
September 19, 1991
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT FUNDRAISING BREAKFAST FOR
SENATOR BOB PACKWOOD
Oregon Convention Center
Portland, Oregon
8:25 A.M. PDT
THE PRESIDENT: Senator Packwood, thank you for that
warm and personal introduction. May I salute Bill Packwood down here
on the end lest some of you don't recognize this recent graduate of
Penn State who flew out with us today. I was just delighted to see
him. Also pleased that our Secretary of Transportation Sam Skinner,
seating over here, is with us. And he's doing a superb job. We're
going off to Los Angeles right after this breakfast to do a little
more in the transportation front.
I understand that Senator Seymour is here. I haven't
seen him, but senator Seymour of California is with us. John, why
don't you stand up 1f you are, because I've -- well, so he's not --
where is he? Oh, way back there. (Applause.) He'll be flying down
with us to his state of California.
And may I salute Craig Berkman, who -- my friend of long
longstanding who the Senator and everyone else tells me is doing a
superb job for this party. (Applause.) And Tim Lee, the event
chairman -- he's done a mighty good job also, and I salute him.
Don't let him rest up too much, we're going to need him for more of
these events before this is over, I'm sure. (Applause.)
I also thank the band, the Wilson High School Band over
there; the Waverly Children's Home, who led the Pledge of Allegiance;
and of course, the choir that put great life into our complicated but
wonderfully moving National Anthem. All of them did a first-class
job. (Applause.)
Portland, Oregon -- the "City of Roses." Portland is a
very special place. But I was thinking, if you had to borrow a name
from the state of Maine, how about "Kennebunkport"? Nice ring to it.
But let me say it's been an amazing month or so in our
world. I focus going back to Maine this summer in the month of
August. Before Congress went on recess, a few remnants of the Cold
War remained intact. By the time it had returned -- that Congress
had come back, a coup tried to unseat Mikhail Gorbachev -- and
instead of that, the coup de grace was given to communism itself.
And I couldn't help note, Reverend, your special appeal
about the Baltic States. It's most appropriate as these countries,
once considered satellites -- never by the United States -- but
considered satellites in the Soviet Union are now free, independent
countries, their flags flying at the United Nations as well as over
their own capitals. And that is historic. It's long overdue. And I
take great pleasure, as I know all Americans do, in their
lovely invocation.
independence. So I'm pleased you mentioned them in your fitting and
MORE
- 2 -
most part, positive. I am very proud oz the fact that it is abroad the
The changes in the world are indeed staggering and, for
United the states of America that is leading the way. you travel
which 10 out front, helping many new fiedgling democracies find in
and many of you have -- and you sée, clearly that it is our country their
way -- in Africa, in south America, and Eastern Europe and, yes, It
what used to be an iron Marxist state called the soviet Union. is
mind-boggling to think of the changes that Have taken place just in
the last six or seven weeks.
We have an unprecedented opportunity to build a new era
of peace and prosperity here and abroad; to build a new world order
where the rule of law prevails over the use of force. None of these
changes would have taken place if the United states had not remained
firmly committed to the cause of freedom, Over the years we stood
firm and in this year's tense debates about the Gulf -- these changes
couldn't have taken place 1£ Congress hadn't authorized the use of
force to stop a brutal dictator.
Bob Packwood was one of those who, against those public
opinion polls of the moment, stood with me in that historic debate.
And that's just one reason, one of many, that I'm happy to join him
here today -- because he 16 a force for positive good on Capitol
Hill. (Applause.)
You know his accomplishments as Chairman of the Senate
Finance Committee, where he's now the ranking Republican -- his
influence on tax reform and employee benefits. You know the impact
he's had on free enterprise, on trade, and on deregulation --
especially when he was Chairman of Commerce, Science and
Transportation Committee.
But I want to tell you this, and tell you urgently --
and, yes, this is a political gathering to honor him -- but you must
return Bob Packwood to the United States Senate. (Applause.) His 23
years -- it will be 24 at election time -- of seniority make him a
solid leader of strength and experience. So we need him. The party
needs him as a spokesman, as a leader.
And Bob effectively works behind the scenes sometimes to
make sure that our message is heard. And it's not easy when you're
up against an automatic moving majority that wants to do things just
the opposite from the way I was elected to perform. And so I'm
delighted he's up there doing that. And one other point: he has a
sound record. He hasn't forgotten the human equation. The fact that
people need jobs and must not be thrown out of work by extreme
environmental positions is known to him. And I don't believe we need
extremes to solve the problem. (Applause.)
If that overall message of his is not listened to, we
do face trouble. I spoke to Congress 197 days ago, and I issued a
simple challenge -- and here, if I might, repeat 1t. If America can
defeat a brutal dictator in a matter of weeks, then surely its
legislative body can manage to pass two bills the administration's
crime and transportation bills -- within 100 days. That was in the
State of the Union message 197 days ago.
Well, almost twice that time, that 100 days, has elapsed
-- and we still do not have these two bills. And it's clear that the
Democrats have no desire to help us advance what is a sound and
strong domestic agenda. Their alternative is not a domestic agenda -
- it's a political one -- to block our agenda. And we cannot let
that succeed.
Occasionally, we have been able to break the logjam --
we're proud of the Clean Air Act that was passed. I think it's good
environmental policy; I think it's just good plain national policy.
'm proud of the Americans with Disabilities Act that we managed to
ass last year -- the most forward-looking peace of civil rights
MORE
- 3 -
legislation succeed only with the help 6E the American people. who
in years. And I'm broud with our success in child To care.
But we can the fight, we need you to elect and reelect leaders I've care
continue about this country -- who care about the approach that
deeply outlined here -- strong, competent, principled men like Bob Packwood.
And to continue this nation's victories, the American
people must rediscover their own genius. That's the heart of our
domestic philosophy that overlies our domestic agenda -- the concept
that the true power and potential in this land must rest in the hands
of the people. Our domestic policy begins by trusting you.
Let me elaborate. Our domestic agenda tries to carry
that faith forward into the future. Our housing proposals, for
example, would turn housing residents into homeowners; would
emphasize tenant management - letting people 10 the area itself
manage their own affairs. It relies on the belief that our public
housing citizens can care for themselves and contribute to our
society. Our energy package attempts to conserve energy while
encouraging innovation. The transportation package that Sam Skinner
has been so inventive in gives more power to local authorities, who
know their own needs. The National Drug strategy is all
encompassing, with lots of the most effective work being done by the
private sector and at the local level. And our crime package -- the
most comprehensive in American history -- tries to give our streets
back to the people.
In each case, we want Washington to give power back to
the people and give them a chance to shape their own destinies --
rather than having to answer to distant bureaucrats.
And this philosophy serves as the foundation for an
issue I'd like to just touch on in a little more detail. I'm
talking, of course, about education. our democracy can remain vital
only if we continue to grow in knowledge and wisdom: understanding
the increasingly complex and competitive world in which we live.
We Americans can and must revitalize our education
system for our children -- for our future. We don't want just a good
education system. We want the best. we deserve a system that will
give every citizen the power to throw open his or her own door of
opportunity.
I came to this job believing that education is our most
enduring legacy -- vital to everything that we are and everything we
can become. I believe it with even more conviction now.
Five months ago we issued a challenge that we call
"America 2000" -- a call to reinvent, revolutionize, if you will,
American education. This initiative sketched out the framework for a
national education strategy made up of four elements: accountable
schools for today -- and I emphasize that word "accountable" -- a new
generation of schools for tomorrow -- not do it the same old way;
each community find a new way to approach the education challenges in
that community, that state; a nation of students committed to a
lifetime of education -- I'm floundering around trying to learn how
to use that computer a little better and I'm getting up there in
years. Nobody is too old to learn -- and a community where learning
can happen. And by that I mean an environment in which education
can take place, in which kids feel free from fear and they can go on
about the business of learning.
Now, you play the critical role in making that strategy
ork. You must ensure that each of your communities as a whole
ngages in this commitment to education. People who want Washington
, solve all problems are simply missing the point. What happens
here doesn't matter half as much as what happens in each hometown.
member, on the total figures for education, six percent is federal
vernment spending; 94 percent by local and state private entities.
MORE
- 4 -
y ery person, every school, every town must join this special
national army -- an army undertaking the most important crusade of
all -- the crusade to prepare our children and ourselves for our
country's future. You can -- you must -- make our communities places
where learning can happen.
Let me give you just a handful of examples. of what
Oregonians are doing to help improve education around them. The
National Guard, a Willamette University fraternity, Kiwanians and
individuals joined together to "adopt" Salem's Richmond Elementary
School, which serves a large migrant population. This community 80
enriches the lives of the students and the school that they won this
year's Governor's Volunteerism Award and the district award for
outstanding business school partnership.
In Albany, more than 2000 residents have come together
to focus on the district's 22 schools through a remarkable business
partnership program begun, in this case, by the Chamber of Commerce.
In West Linn, not only do parents assist teachers in classrooms, but
over 50 percent of middle school science students have been given the
chance to strengthen lessons learned in schools through local
internships as a part of a program called "Future Makers."
And then there's my favorite place -- I like the name at
least -- Salem's Bush Elementary School. (Laughter.) Everyone there
in that community has joined to give this school new life, and make
it a centerpiece of community life. In this school, where 75 percent
of the families live below the poverty level, and one-third speak no
English, residents set up an "Even start" literacy program for kids
and parents.
Local college students provide tutoring, mentoring, and
help with therapy groups. Volunteers from businesses, hospitals, and
the community contribute to weekly tutoring programs. Anyone can
join: 85-year-old Esther Wilson has been working with at-risk kids
in Salem for nine years. Members of a local church help students
with languages -- but they're also building a playground. In Salem,
you see, people understand that you must help kids be students --
without forgetting that they're kids. That's because kids ought to
experience education as one of life's great Joys. The community also
encourages parents to volunteer at the school -- this enriches the
school and makes citizens feel more a part of their children's
education.
There are thousands of stories like this, tens of
thousands across this country. This could never happen 1f somebody
tried to design a program in a subcommittee on education in the House
of Representatives or in the United states senate. It couldn't
happen. You cannot generate that kind of love and that kind of
concern by some federal legislation back in Washington, D.C.
There are thousands of stories like these. And you can
write your own versions in your own neighborhoods. America cannot
afford to wait, or to waste, an entire generation. As we look ahead
to the year 2000 we must answer the call -- "Let tomorrow begin
today."
I will stay personally involved. our new Secretary of
Education, Governor Lamar Alexander, is taking a crucial leadership
role in advocating and promoting our program called Iducation 2000.
I don't want to turn what is an upbeat, enthusiastic rally for Bob
Packwood into a lecture on education, but I feel so strongly about
this -- I urge you take a hard look at it. It's not partisan. It
gets all across partisan lines. And it really answers the future
challenge and says that these kids sitting right over here are going
to have a better shot if we get this program fully implemented and
fully into effect.
Here in Oregon, you can do something about it also
because it is part of the philosophical underpinning of our
administration -- and that is to reelect Bob Packwood to the Senate.
- 5 -
You know, I an delighted to be back here in Portland.
I'll remember this day next spring when I welcome the Trailblazers to
the White House after they win the NBA title. (Applause.) But I
reserve the right to change these remarks when I get to Los Angeles.
(Laughter.) And then tomorrow I'm going to be in Chicago, so --
(laughter.)
But listen, let me just say this. I am very privileged
to be President of the United States at this historic time. The
change around the world is so rapid; the ferment and turmoil and
change in our country so challenging. I am blessed. And Barbara
feels exactly the same way as First Lady. And if I might say a word
about her, I think she is doing a superb job as she travels around
teaching literacy in this country. (Applause.)
But the longer I'm in this job, the more convinced I am
that to get the job done, to finish what so many of you helped me
begin, I need good people that look at these broad views
philosophically the way we do. sure, there are going to be
differences on one issue or another. But the big thing is Bob
Packwood and I share this philosophical underpinning that the best
answer is to keep government as close as possible to home. That's
education, that's fighting drugs -- whatever it is.
And so, let me just say, please, go all out in '92 and
return this good man to the United states senate.
Thank you all very, very much. (Applause.)
Well, again, thanks for your welcome and your support.
God bless you all.
END
8:44 A.M. PDT
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
9/16/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
---
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
"
SUNUNU
PETERSMEYER
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
SMITH
BROMLEY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
KAUFMAN
DEMAREST
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
\
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
came duys of
foreign policy change
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
31 SEP 16 P12: 39
September 16, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW TS
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE BH
SUBJECT:
FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
On Thursday, September 19, at 8:30 a.m., you will address
approximately 750 attendees at a fundraising breakfast for Senator
Packwood. Your remarks (8 minutes, teleprompter) focus on the
urgency of the Administration's domestic agenda with special
attention given to education.
(Hinchliffe/Blymire)
September 16, 1991 8 a.m.
PACKWOOD.TS Draft Three
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
September 19, 1991
Portland, Oregon
I'm delighted to be here -- though I'm not used to being up
this early without a fishing pole. It's been about a year since
I've been in the "City of Roses." Portland's a special place ---
though, you know, if you had to borrow a name from a town in
Maine, I think "Kennebunkport" has a nice ring to it. 111
It's especially good to be here today with my friend Bob.
He's a force on the Hill. You know his accomplishments as
Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, where he's now the
ranking Republican -- and his influence on tax reform and
employee benefits. You know of the impact he's had in free
enterprise, trade, and deregulation -- especially when he was
Chairman of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.
But I want to tell you this -- and tell you urgently -- you
must return Bob to the Senate. His 23 years -- it'll be 24 at⁻
election time -- of seniority make him a solid leader of strength
and experience. This country needs him and the Republican party
needs him -- as a spokesman and a leader. Bob works behind the
scenes to make sure the Republican message is heard.
And if that message isn't listened to -- we face trouble. I
spoke to Congress 197 days ago, and I issued a simple challenge.
I said: If America can defeat a brutal dictator in a matter of
weeks, then surely its legislative body can manage to pass two
bills the Administration's crime and transportation bills --
2
within 100 days.
Well, almost twice that time has elapsed -- and we still do
not have those bills. It's clear that the Democrats have no
desire to help us advance our domestic agenda. Their
"alternative" is not a domestic agenda -- it's a political one -
- to block our agenda. 11
Occasionally, we've been able to break the logjam -- we're
proud of our Clean Air Act; the Americans with Disabilities Act;
and our success with child care. But we can succeed only with
the help of the American people. To continue the fight we need
forward-
forwerd-leoking
you to elect and re-elect leaders who care about this country --
been
strong, competent, principled men and women like Bob Packwood.
dough,
And to continue this nation's victories, the American people
must rediscover their own genius. That's the heart of this
trans,
eneryn.
Administration's domestic philosophy -- the concept that the true
power and potential in this land must rest in the hands of our
people. Our domestic policy begins by trusting you.
In particular I call on you to respond to a great challenge.
Our democracy can remain vital only if we continue to grow in
knowledge and wisdom: understanding the increasingly complex and
competitive world in which we live. The only way is education. 11
You know, an ancient poet once wrote: "every child born
into the world brings a message from God that He is not yet
discouraged with Man. " We Americans can and must revitalize our
education system for our children -- our future. We must focus
on education in order to compete successfully in the world --
3
and, most importantly, in order to give every citizen the power
to throw open his or her own door of opportunity. I came to this
job believing that education is our most enduring legacy -- vital
to everything that we are and everything we can become. I
believe it even more strongly now.
Thanks to some gifted leaders in Washington, and to the
immeasurable creativity of grass-roots leaders like you, our
nation has begun an exciting renaissance of excellence in our
schools. Five months ago we issued a challenge called "America
2000" -- a call to reinvent American education. This initiative
sketched out the framework for a national education strategy made
up of four elements: accountable schools for today -- a new
generation of schools for tomorrow -- a nation of students
committed to a lifetime of education -- and communities where
learning can happen.
You play a critical role. You must ensure that each of your
communities as a whole engage in this commitment to education.
People who want Washington to solve all problems are missing the
point. What happens there doesn't matter half as much as what
happens in each hometown. Every person, every school, every town
must join this special national army -- an army undertaking the
most important crusade of all -- the crusade to prepare our
children and ourselves for our country's future. You can -- you
must -- make our communities places where learning can happen.
Let me give you examples of what your fellow Oregonians are
already doing to help improve education around them. The
4
National Guard, a Willamette University fraternity, Kiwanians and
individuals joined together to "adopt" Salem's Richmond
Elementary School, which serves a large migrant population. This
community so enriches the lives of the students and the school
that they won this year's Governor's Volunteerism Award -- and
the district award for outstanding business/school partnership.
In Albany, more than 2000 residents have come together to
focus on the district's 22 schools through a remarkable business
partnership program begun by the Chamber of Commerce. In West
Lynn, not only do parents assist teachers in classrooms, but over
50 percent of middle school students have been given the chance
to strengthen lessons learned in schools through local
internships as part of a unique program called "Future Makers."
And then there's my favorite place -- well, I like the name,
at least -- Salem's Bush Elementary School 11 Everyone in the
community has joined to give this school new life, and make it a
centerpiece of community life. In this school, where 75 percent
of families live below the poverty level, and one-third speak no
English, residents set up an "Even Start" literacy program for
kids and parents.
Local college students provide tutoring, mentoring, and help
with therapy groups. Volunteers from businesses, hospitals, and
the community contribute to weekly tutoring programs. Anyone can
join: 85-year-old Esther Wilson has been working with at-risk
kids in Salem for nine years. Members of a local church help
students with languages --- but they're also building a
5
playground. In Salem, you see, people understand that you must
help kids be students -- without forgetting that they're kids,
and ought to experience life's joys as well. The community
encourages parents to volunteer to do anything at all -- this
enriches the school and makes citizens feel better about
themselves.
There are thousands of stories like these; and you can write
your own versions in your own neighborhoods. America can't afford
to wait -- or waste a generation. As we look ahead to the
year 2000 we must answer the call -- "Let tomorrow begin today. "
Here in Oregon, we must answer that call by working hard to
return Bob Packwood to the Senate. 11
Thank you for this chance to visit with you here in Portland
-- I'll remember this day next spring when I welcome the
Trailblazers to the White House after they win the NBA title. 11
Oh, boy -- that's going to get me in trouble later, because my
next stop is Los Angeles. And tomorrow I visit -- you guessed it
-- Chicago. 11
Well, again, thanks for your welcome and your support. God
bless you all.
#####
THE PRESIDENT 9/17/11 HAS SEEN
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
31.SEP S yes P12\: 39
P/
jemorest
September 16, 1991
Call
THIS
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
wr
TONY SNOW TS
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE BH
AM
funds
SUBJECT:
FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
On Thursday, September 19, at 8:30 a.m., you will address
approximately 750 attendees at a fundraising breakfast for Senator
Packwood. Your remarks (8 minutes, teleprompter) focus on the
urgency of the Administration's domestic agenda with special
attention given to education.
Ivalle 732 to 31 q-17
Hett Davedrant.
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 SEP 16 P3: 05
DATE:
9/16/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
---
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
PETERSMEYER
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
SMITH
BROMLEY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
KAUFMAN
DEMAREST
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
\
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
31 SEP 16 P12: 39
September 16, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
:
DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW TS
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE BH
SUBJECT:
FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
On Thursday, September 19, at 8:30 a.m., you will address
approximately 750 attendees at a fundraising breakfast for Senator
Packwood. Your remarks (8 minutes, teleprompter) focus on the
urgency of the Administration's domestic agenda with special
attention given to education.
(Hinchliffe/Blymire)
September 16, 1991 8 a.m.
PACKWOOD.TS Draft Three
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
September 19, 1991
Portland, Oregon
I'm delighted to be here -- though I'm not used to being up
this early without a fishing pole. It's been about a year since
I've been in the "City of Roses." Portland's a special place --
though, you know, if you had to borrow a name from a town in
Maine, I think "Kennebunkport" has a nice ring to it. III
It's especially good to be here today with my friend Bob.
He's a force on the Hill. You know his accomplishments as
Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, where he's now the
ranking Republican -- and his influence on tax reform and
employee benefits. You know of the impact he's had in free
enterprise, trade, and deregulation -- especially when he was
Chairman of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.
But I want to tell you this -- and tell you urgently -- you
must return Bob to the Senate. His 23 years -- it'll be 24 at
election time -- of seniority make him a solid leader of strength
and experience. This country needs him and the Republican party
needs him -- as a spokesman and a leader. Bob works behind the
scenes to make sure the Republican message is heard.
And if that message isn't listened to -- we face trouble. I
spoke to Congress 197 days ago, and I issued a simple challenge.
I said: If America can defeat a brutal dictator in a matter of
weeks, then surely its legislative body can manage to pass two
bills the Administration's crime and transportation bills --
2
within 100 days.
Well, almost twice that time has elapsed -- and we still do
not have those bills. It's clear that the Democrats have no
desire to help us advance our domestic agenda. Their
"alternative" is not a domestic agenda -- it's a political one -
- to block our agenda. 11
Occasionally, we've been able to break the logjam -- we're
proud of our Clean Air Act; the Americans with Disabilities Act;
and our success with child care. But we can succeed only with
the help of the American people. To continue the fight we need
you to elect and re-elect leaders who care about this country --
strong, competent, principled men and women like Bob Packwood.
And to continue this nation's victories, the American people
must rediscover their own genius. That's the heart of this
Administration's domestic philosophy -- the concept that the true
power and potential in this land must rest in the hands of our
people. Our domestic policy begins by trusting you.
In particular I call on you to respond to a great challenge.
Our democracy can remain vital only if we continue to grow in
knowledge and wisdom: understanding the increasingly complex and
competitive world in which we live. The only way is education. 11
You know, an ancient poet once wrote: "every child born
into the world brings a message from God that He is not yet
discouraged with Man." We Americans can and must revitalize our
education system for our children -- our future. We must focus
on education in order to compete successfully in the world --
3
and, most importantly, in order to give every citizen the power
to throw open his or her own door of opportunity. I came to this
job believing that education is our most enduring legacy -- vital
to everything that we are and everything we can become. I
believe it even more strongly now.
Thanks to some gifted leaders in Washington, and to the
immeasurable creativity of grass-roots leaders like you, our
nation has begun an exciting renaissance of excellence in our
schools. Five months ago we issued a challenge called "America
2000" -- a call to reinvent American education. This initiative
sketched out the framework for a national education strategy made
up of four elements: accountable schools for today -- a new
generation of schools for tomorrow -- a nation of students
committed to a lifetime of education -- and communities where
learning can happen.
You play a critical role. You must ensure that each of your
communities as a whole engage in this commitment to education.
People who want Washington to solve all problems are missing the
point. What happens there doesn't matter half as much as what
happens in each hometown. Every person, every school, every town
must join this special national army -- an army undertaking the
most important crusade of all -- the crusade to prepare our
children and ourselves for our country's future. You can -- you
must -- make our communities places where learning can happen.
Let me give you examples of what your fellow Oregonians are
already doing to help improve education around them. The
4
National Guard, a Willamette University fraternity, Kiwanians and
individuals joined together to "adopt" Salem's Richmond
Elementary School, which serves a large migrant population. This
community so enriches the lives of the students and the school
that they won this year's Governor's Volunteerism Award -- and
the district award for outstanding business/school partnership.
In Albany, more than 2000 residents have come together to:
focus on the district's 22 schools through a remarkable business
partnership program begun by the Chamber of Commerce. In West
Lynn, not only do parents assist teachers in classrooms, but over
50 percent of middle school students have been given the chance
to strengthen lessons learned in schools through local
internships as part of a unique program called "Future Makers." "
And then there's my favorite place -- well, I like the name,
at least -- Salem's Bush Elementary School Everyone in the
community has joined to give this school new life, and make it a
centerpiece of community life. In this school, where 75 percent
of families live below the poverty level, and one-third speak no
English, residents set up an "Even Start" literacy program for
kids and parents.
Local college students provide tutoring, mentoring, and help
with therapy groups. Volunteers from businesses, hospitals, and
the community contribute to weekly tutoring programs. Anyone can
join: 85-year-old Esther Wilson has been working with at-risk
kids in Salem for nine years. Members of a local church help
students with languages -- but they're also building a
5
playground. In Salem, you see, people understand that you must
help kids be students -- without forgetting that they're kids,
and ought to experience life's joys as well. The community
encourages parents to volunteer to do anything at all -- this
enriches the school and makes citizens feel better about
themselves.
There are thousands of stories like these; and you can write
your own versions in your own neighborhoods. America can't afford
to wait -- or waste -- a generation. As we look ahead to the
year 2000 we must answer the call -- "Let tomorrow begin today.' "
Here in Oregon, we must answer that call by working hard to
return Bob Packwood to the Senate. 11
Thank you for this chance to visit with you here in Portland
-- I'll remember this day next spring when I welcome the
Trailblazers to the White House after they win the NBA title. 11
Oh, boy -- that's going to get me in trouble later, because my
next stop is Los Angeles. And tomorrow I visit -- you guessed it
-- Chicago. 11
Well, again, thanks for your welcome and your support. God
bless you all.
#####
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
September 16, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW TS
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE BH
SUBJECT:
FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
On Thursday, September 19, at 8:30 a.m., you will address
approximately 750 attendees at a fundraising breakfast for Senator
Packwood. Your remarks (8 minutes, teleprompter) focus on the-
urgency of the Administration's domestic agenda with special
attention given to education.
(Hinchliffe/Blymire)
September 16, 1991 8 a.m.
PACKWOOD.TS Draft Three
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: FUNDRAISER FOR SENATOR PACKWOOD
September 19, 1991
Portland, Oregon
I'm delighted to be here -- though I'm not used to being up
this early without a fishing pole. It's been about a year since
I've been in the "City of Roses." Portland's a special place ---
though, you know, if you had to borrow a name from a town in
Maine, I think "Kennebunkport" has a nice ring to it. 111
It's especially good to be here today with my friend Bob.
He's a force on the Hill. You know his accomplishments as
Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, where he's now the
ranking Republican -- and his influence on tax reform and
employee benefits. You know of the impact he's had in free
enterprise, trade, and deregulation -- especially when he was
Chairman of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.
But I want to tell you this -- and tell you urgently -- you
must return Bob to the Senate. His 23 years -- it'll be 24 at
election time -- of seniority make him a solid leader of strength
and experience. This country needs him and the Republican party
needs him -- as a spokesman and a leader. Bob works behind the
scenes to make sure the Republican message is heard.
And if that message isn't listened to -- we face trouble. I
spoke to Congress 197 days ago, and I issued a simple challenge.
I said: If America can defeat a brutal dictator in a matter of
weeks, then surely its legislative body can manage to pass two
bills the Administration's crime and transportation bills --
2
within 100 days.
Well, almost twice that time has elapsed -- and we still do
not have those bills. It's clear that the Democrats have no
desire to help us advance our domestic agenda. Their
"alternative" is not a domestic agenda -- it's a political one -
- to block our agenda.
Occasionally, we've been able to break the logjam -- we're
proud of our Clean Air Act; the Americans with Disabilities Act;
and our success with child care. But we can succeed only with
the help of the American people. To continue the fight we need
you to elect and re-elect leaders who care about this country
strong, competent, principled men and women like Bob Packwood.\
And to continue this nation's victories, the American people
must rediscover their own genius. That's the heart of this
Administration's domestic philosophy -- the concept that the true
power and potential in this land must rest in the hands of our
people. Our domestic policy begins by trusting you.
In particular I call on you to respond to a great challenge.
Our democracy can remain vital only if we continue to grow in
knowledge and wisdom: understanding the increasingly complex and
competitive world in which we live. The only way is education. 11
You know, an ancient poet once wrote: "every child born
into the world brings a message from God that He is not yet
discouraged with Man. II We Americans can and must revitalize our
education system for our children -- our future. We must focus
on education in order to compete successfully in the world --
3
and, most importantly, in order to give every citizen the power
to throw open his or her own door of opportunity. I came to this
job believing that education is our most enduring legacy -- vital
to everything that we are and everything we can become. I
believe it even more strongly now.
Thanks to some gifted leaders in Washington, and to the
immeasurable creativity of grass-roots leaders like you, our
nation has begun an exciting renaissance of excellence in our.
schools. Five months ago we issued a challenge called "America
2000" -- a call to reinvent American education. This initiative
sketched out the framework for a national education strategy made
up of four elements: accountable schools for today -- a new
generation of schools for tomorrow -- a nation of students
committed to a lifetime of education -- and communities where
learning can happen.
You play a critical role. You must ensure that each of your
communities as a whole engage in this commitment to education.
People who want Washington to solve all problems are missing the
point. What happens there doesn't matter half as much as what
happens in each hometown. Every person, every school, every town
must join this special national army -- an army undertaking the
most important crusade of all -- the crusade to prepare our
children and ourselves for our country's future. You can -- you
must -- make our communities places where learning can happen.
Let me give you examples of what your fellow Oregonians are
already doing to help improve education around them. The
4
National Guard, a Willamette University fraternity, Kiwanians and
individuals joined together to "adopt" Salem's Richmond
Elementary School, which serves a large migrant population. This
community so enriches the lives of the students and the school
that they won this year's Governor's Volunteerism Award -- and
the district award for outstanding business/school partnership.
In Albany, more than 2000 residents have come together to
focus on the district's 22 schools through a remarkable business
partnership program begun by the Chamber of Commerce. In West
Lynn, not only do parents assist teachers in classrooms, but over
50 percent of middle school students have been given the chance
to strengthen lessons learned in schools through local
internships as part of a unique program called "Future Makers.
And then there's my favorite place -- well, I like the name,
at least -- Salem's Bush Elementary School Everyone in the
community has joined to give this school new life, and make it a
centerpiece of community life. In this school, where 75 percent
of families live below the poverty level, and one-third speak no
English, residents set up an "Even Start" literacy program for
kids and parents.
Local college students provide tutoring, mentoring, and help
with therapy groups. Volunteers from businesses, hospitals, and
the community contribute to weekly tutoring programs. Anyone can
join: 85-year-old Esther Wilson has been working with at-risk
kids in Salem for nine years. Members of a local church help
students with languages -- but they're also building a
5
playground. In Salem, you see, people understand that you must
help kids be students -- without forgetting that they're kids,
and ought to experience life's joys as well. The community
encourages parents to volunteer to do anything at all -- this
enriches the school and makes citizens feel better about
themselves.
There are thousands of stories like these; and you can write
your own versions in your own neighborhoods. America can't afford
to wait -- or waste -- a generation. As we look ahead to the
year 2000 we must answer the call -- "Let tomorrow begin today."
Here in Oregon, we must answer that call by working hard to
return Bob Packwood to the Senate.
Thank you for this chance to visit with you here in Portland
-- I'll remember this day next spring when I welcome the
Trailblazers to the White House after they win the NBA title. 11
Oh, boy -- that's going to get me in trouble later, because my
next stop is Los Angeles. And tomorrow I visit -- you guessed it
--. Chicago. 11
Well, again, thanks for your welcome and your support. God.
bless you all.
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