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Philadelphia Weed and Seed Event 5/11/92 [OA 6102]
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Document No. 326732ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/7/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 P.M. FRIDAY 5/8
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PHILADELPHIA WEED AND SEED EVENT
SUBJECT:
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
MONDAY, MAY 11, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER N/C
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS N/C
DEMAREST
SMITH
>
YEUTTER N/C
FITZWATER
GRAY N/C
FINDLAY
KAUFMAN
HOLIDAY
McGroating
BOSKIN
REMARKS:
MARTINEZ
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm
122, Ext. 2930, NO LATER THAN 4:00 P.M., FRIDAY, MAY 8, with
a copy to this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
CANCELLED PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Nix
May 7, 1992
22 MAY 7 P8: 25
Draft One
WEED
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
PHILADELPHIA WEED AND SEED EVENT
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
MONDAY, MAY 11, 1992
[Acknowledgements -- Police Commissioner Willie Williams,
U.S. Attorney Mike Baylson, Mayor Ed Rendell, etc.]
As most of you know, last week I visited South Central Los
Angeles. (stories from LA?) I saw horror, dismay and outrage.
But the people there are rebuilding their lives, looking for hope
and searching for answers.
I've come here today because Philadelphia seems to have some
of the answers. Philadelphia is one city that is breaking out of
the cycle of violence in America. of the top ten major cities in
America, it is the only city whose murder rate dropped last year.
In fact, the promising news for Philadelphians: last year drug-
related murders dropped 38 percent.
So far, the good news is continuing -- primarily because of
the hard work and cooperation of federal, state and local law
enforcement on the front lines. They can be credited with
breaking the mold
trying new solutions
...
using
innovative approaches to combat violent crime. Take a look at
the Violent Traffickers Project, which started over in Spring
Garden [where we were earlier]. The project broke the back of
the drug gangs operating in Spring Garden. Already, more than
600 members of 30 separate gangs in Philadelphia have been taken
2
off the streets and are doing hard time in various federal
prisons.
And we're literally "making a federal case" against the most
dangerous criminals through F.A.S.T., Federal Alternatives to
State Trials, and through Project Triggerlock, which targets
career criminals who use or carry guns. We're "throwing the
federal book" at those who torment our cities, with no room for
them to duck: Conviction rates are close to 100 percent for
these cases, and sentences are running 15, 20 and 25 years for
gun and drug offenses. When it comes to lowering the crime rate
here, these ideas are working.
We like what works. And another approach that works is Weed
and Seed. Because the key to Weed and Seed is partnership --
partnership with the community / partnership between governments
/ and partnership between law enforcement and neighborhood
revitalization programs.
Weed and Seed is not so much a new spending program but a
whole new method of operating. It is a comprehensive approach to
combatting violent crime in some of America's hardest-hit
neighborhoods -- by focusing our resources to assist the
residents who want to take back their streets and rebuild their
communities.
Here's how it works. As the first step: federal, state and
local law enforcement concentrate their efforts on neighborhoods
like West Kensington corridor. Working with the community, they
3
"weed out" the violent offenders, the gangs, and the drug
traffickers.
But it's the community that leads the way -- as they are
here. Just last week [U.S. Attorney] Mike Baylson and 3,000
elementary school children marched with Concerned United
Neighbors Against Drugs -- right here in the Badlands. This
neighborhood is already taking the first step: taking back the
streets from the criminals and drug dealers -- once and for all.
They are literally taking the bad guys out of the Badlands. //
As the streets are reclaimed from the criminals, community
policing is put into place -- so that the ground, once taken, is
held. Police Commissioner Williams was one of the first to begin
community policing years ago here in Philadelphia. Police
commanders attend community meetings / officers patrol
neighborhoods on foot / and residents feel safe knowing who is on
the beat in their area. Community policing is one of the
reasons, we believe, that Philadelphia was spared some of the
violence that plagued other cities after the verdict in Los
Angeles two weeks ago.
Finally, the broad array of federal, state and local
government and private sector community revitalization programs
are brought to bear on the community -- to "seed in" long-term
stability, growth and opportunity. Drug prevention programs,
Head Start, job training, health care programs, community
development grants -- all are applied together -- in one place /
4
at one time / in a mutually reinforcing way -- in a true working
partnership with the community.
Philadelphia is breaking the cycle of violence because
Philadelphia knows that without effective law enforcement, the
social programs cannot succeed. Too often -- in the past -- we
have pursued our social programs and our law enforcement efforts
on separate tracks. As a result, many of our urban
revitalization efforts are being strangled by crime.
You know what I'm talking about: We build public housing
only to see these buildings taken over as crack houses.
We build model schools only to see them become war zones --
where teachers and students fear coming to class.
We build playgrounds for children only to see them become
battlegrounds for drug pushers.
When a neighborhood is overridden by crime, businesses are
driven away -- taking jobs and opportunities with them.
Potential investors and would-be employers are scared away;
builders and landlords are discouraged because property values
plummet. It has become increasingly clear -- to business owners,
parents, teachers, public housing residents, to anyone who reads
a newspaper -- that law enforcement is an absolute prerequisite
for social programs to succeed.
That is why the Weed and Seed strategy works -- because it
makes good, common sense.
I have asked Congress to authorize the designation of Weed
and Seed communities as enterprise zones. Once law enforcement
5
has done its job, growth and opportunity will be stimulated
through investment, job creation and local entrepreneurial
activity in crime- and drug-free neighborhoods.
We've seen Weed and Seed work in pilot sites such as Trenton
and Kansas City -- and as a result, this year 16 more cities have
begun Weed and Seed programs. We're seeking a substantial
expansion of the Weed and Seed program for FY 1993 -- we're
requesting $500 million be made available for up to 30 qualifying
cities next year. I have also asked Congress to immediately
authorize parts of Los Angeles as Weed and Seed sites, so that we
can help the community best by focusing our resources on those
areas that need help most.
The Weed and Seed approach is one of the answers people are
seeking. As I said in Los Angeles on Friday, it's time we tried
something different. A fresh approach. One that gives the word
opportunity real meaning.
I believe in policies that rely on the community for
guidance -- that encourage entrepreneurship, increase investment
and create jobs. In my view, the best hope for genuine community
renewal lies in those traditional institutions that emerge from
the communities themselves -- and that offer the best and
brightest hope for our children: the church / community groups /
and most importantly, the family.
In the final analysis, nothing can substitute for the clear
moral vision, the discipline, and the respect for authority that
religion, community values and strong families provide. By
6
shoring up the foundation of civilized society -- the family and
the local community -- our social programs can help fight both
poverty and crime.
Weed and Seed does just that -- by working, as partners,
with families, churches and community groups. The program's goal
is to create a climate in which these natural institutions can do
the job they have done so well for centuries.
One resident of a Weed and Seed neighborhood in Seattle,
Kathi Lehr, said it best: "I want my neighborhood to be a safe
place, where people know and respect each other, and there are
spoken community values about right and change.' " People like
Kathi Lehr have looked to their own neighborhoods and found their
answers.
The people of Philadelphia have found answers, too -- and
they lie in the courage and commitment of their neighbors who are
willing to try new solutions and find new hope for us all.
I applaud each and everyone of you for your good work in
bringing hope to your communities. Together, we will erase all
trace of the Badlands -- and renew it with all that is good.
Thank you for this warm Philadelphia welcome. God bless you
all and the United States of America.
#
#
#
achod.
Document No.
326732ss
EC:DFB, PW&JDF
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/7/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 P.M. FRIDAY 5/8
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PHILADELPHIA WEED AND SEED EVENT
SUBJECT:
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
MONDAY, MAY 11, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
GRAY
FINDLAY
KAUFMAN
HOLIDAY
BOSKIN
REMARKS:
MARTINEZ
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm
122, Ext. 2930, NO LATER THAN 4:00 P.M., FRIDAY, MAY 8, with
a copy to this office.
Thank
you.
RESPONSE:
on Assistant and PHILLIP
D. BRADY
to the President
Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Nix
May 7, 1992
02MAY 7 P8: 25
Draft One
WEED
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
PHILADELPHIA WEED AND SEED EVENT
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
MONDAY, MAY 11, 1992
[Acknowledgements -- Police Commissioner Willie Williams,
U.S. Attorney Mike Baylson, Mayor Ed Rendell, etc.]
As most of you know, last week I visited South Central Los
Angeles. (stories from LA?) I saw horror, dismay and outrage.
But the people there are rebuilding their lives, looking for hope
and searching for answers.
I've come here today because Philadelphia seems to have some
of the answers. Philadelphia is one city that is breaking out of
the cycle of violence in America. Of the top ten major cities in
America, it is the only city whose murder rate dropped last year.
In fact, the promising news for Philadelphians: last year drug-
related murders dropped 38 percent.
So far, the good news is continuing -- primarily because of
the hard work and cooperation of federal, state and local law
enforcement on the front lines. They can be credited with
breaking the mold
trying new solutions
using
innovative approaches to combat violent crime. Take a look at
the Violent Traffickers Project, which started over in Spring
Garden [where we were earlier]. The project broke the back of
the drug gangs operating in Spring Garden. Already, more than
600 members of 30 separate gangs in Philadelphia have been taken
2
off the streets and are doing hard time in various federal
prisons.
And we're literally "making a federal case" against the most
dangerous criminals through F.A.S.T., Federal Alternatives to
State Trials, and through Project Triggerlock, which targets
career criminals who use or carry guns. We're "throwing the
federal book" at those who torment our cities, with no room for
them to duck: Conviction rates are close to 100 percent for
these cases, and sentences are running 15, 20 and 25 years for
gun and drug offenses. When it comes to lowering the crime rate
here, these ideas are working.
We like what works. And another approach that works is Weed
and Seed. Because the key to Weed and Seed is partnership --
partnership with the community / partnership between governments
/ and partnership between law enforcement and neighborhood
revitalization programs.
Weed and Seed is not so much a new spending program but a
whole new method of operating. It is a comprehensive approach to
combatting violent crime in some of America's hardest-hit
neighborhoods -- by focusing our resources to assist the
residents who want to take back their streets and rebuild their
communities.
Here's how it works. As the first step: federal, state and
local law enforcement concentrate their efforts on neighborhoods
like West Kensington corridor. Working with the community, they
3
"weed out" the violent offenders, the gangs, and the drug
traffickers.
But it's the community that leads the way -- as they are
here. Just last week [U.S. Attorney] Mike Baylson and 3,000
elementary school children marched with Concerned United
Neighbors Against Drugs -- right here in the Badlands. This
neighborhood is already taking the first step: taking back the
streets from the criminals and drug dealers -- once and for all.
They are literally taking the bad guys out of the Badlands. //
As the streets are reclaimed from the criminals, community
policing is put into place -- so that the ground, once taken, is
held. Police Commissioner Williams was one of the first to begin
community policing years ago here in Philadelphia. Police
commanders attend community meetings / officers patrol
neighborhoods on foot / and residents feel safe knowing who is on
the beat in their area. Community policing is one of the
reasons, we believe, that Philadelphia was spared some of the
violence that plagued other cities after the verdict in Los
Angeles two weeks ago.
Finally, the broad array of federal, state and local
government and private sector community revitalization programs
are brought to bear on the community -- to "seed in" long-term
stability, growth and opportunity. Drug prevention programs,
Head Start, job training, health care programs, community
development grants -- all are applied together -- in one place /
4
at one time / in a mutually reinforcing way -- in a true working
partnership with the community.
Philadelphia is breaking the cycle of violence because
Philadelphia knows that without effective law enforcement, the
social programs cannot succeed. Too often --- in the past -- we
have pursued our social programs and our law enforcement efforts
on separate tracks. As a result, many of our urban
revitalization efforts are being strangled by crime.
You know what I'm talking about: We build public housing
only to see these buildings taken over as crack houses.
We build model schools only to see them become war zones --
where teachers and students fear coming to class.
We build playgrounds for children only to see them become
battlegrounds for drug pushers.
When a neighborhood is overridden by crime, businesses are
driven away -- taking jobs and opportunities with them.
Potential investors and would-be employers are scared away;
builders and landlords are discouraged because property values
plummet. It has become increasingly clear -- to business owners,
parents, teachers, public housing residents, to anyone who reads
a newspaper -- that law enforcement is an absolute prerequisite
for social programs to succeed.
That is why the Weed and Seed strategy works -- because it
makes good, common sense.
I have asked Congress to authorize the designation of Weed
According
in
and Seed communities as enterprise zones. Once law enforcement
not all
are
5
has done its job, growth and opportunity will be stimulated
through investment, job creation and local entrepreneurial
activity in crime- and drug-free neighborhoods.
We've seen Weed and Seed work in pilot sites such as Trenton
and Kansas City -- and as a result, this year 16 more cities have
begun Weed and Seed programs. We're seeking a substantial
expansion of the Weed and Seed program for FY 1993 -- we're
+
confirm the
requesting $500 million be made available for up to
30 qualifying
"16"
or
cities next year. I have also asked Congress to immediately
F41993
authorize parts of Los Angeles as Weed and Seed sites, so that we
can help the community best by focusing our resources on those
areas that need help most.
an
is weed
The Weed and Seed approach is one of the answers people are
-
seeking. As I said in Los Angeles on Friday, it's time we tried
I suggest ck
they
something different. A fresh approach. One that gives the word
with at
opportunity real meaning.
I believe in policies that rely on the community for
guidance -- that encourage entrepreneurship, increase investment
and create jobs. In my view, the best hope for genuine community
renewal lies in those traditional institutions that emerge from
the communities themselves -- and that offer the best and
brightest hope for our children: the church / community groups /
and most importantly, the family.
In the final analysis, nothing can substitute for the clear
moral vision, the discipline, and the respect for authority that
religion, community values and strong families provide. By
6
shoring up the foundation of civilized society -- the family and
the local community -- our social programs can help fight both
poverty and crime.
Weed and Seed does just that -- by working, as partners,
with families, churches and community groups. The program's goal
is to create a climate in which these natural institutions can do
the job they have done so well for centuries.
One resident of a Weed and Seed neighborhood in Seattle,
Kathi Lehr, said it best: "I want my neighborhood to be a safe
place, where people know and respect each other, and there are
spoken community values about right and change. " People like
Kathi Lehr have looked to their own neighborhoods and found their
answers.
The people of Philadelphia have found answers, too -- and
they lie in the courage and commitment of their neighbors who are
willing to try new solutions and find new hope for us all.
I applaud each and everyone of you for your good work in
bringing hope to your communities. Together, we will erase all
trace of the Badlands -- and renew it with all that is good.
Thank you for this warm Philadelphia welcome. God bless you
all and the United States of America.
#
#
#
Document No. 326732ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/7/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 P.M. FRIDAY 5/8
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PHILADELPHIA WEED AND SEED EVENT
SUBJECT:
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
MONDAY, MAY 11, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
>
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
FINDLAY
GRAY
KAUFMAN
HOLIDAY
BOSKIN
REMARKS:
MARTINEZ
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm
122, Ext. 2930, NO LATER THAN 4:00 P.M., FRIDAY, MAY 8, with
a copy to this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
N/C f DS
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Nix
May 7, 1992
02 MAY 7 P8: 25
Draft One
WEED
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
PHILADELPHIA WEED AND SEED EVENT
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
MONDAY, MAY 11, 1992
[Acknowledgements -- Police Commissioner Willie Williams,
U.S. Attorney Mike Baylson, Mayor Ed Rendell, etc.]
As most of you know, last week I visited South Central Los
Angeles. (stories from LA?) I saw horror, dismay and outrage.
But the people there are rebuilding their lives, looking for hope
and searching for answers.
I've come here today because Philadelphia seems to have some
of the answers. Philadelphia is one city that is breaking out of
the cycle of violence in America. Of the top ten major cities in
America, it is the only city whose murder rate dropped last year.
In fact, the promising news for Philadelphians: last year drug-
related murders dropped 38 percent.
So far, the good news is continuing -- primarily because of
the hard work and cooperation of federal, state and local law
enforcement on the front lines. They can be credited with
breaking the mold
trying new solutions
using
innovative approaches to combat violent crime. Take a look at
the Violent Traffickers Project, which started over in Spring
Garden [where we were earlier]. The project broke the back of
the drug gangs operating in Spring Garden. Already, more than
600 members of 30 separate gangs in Philadelphia have been taken
2
off the streets and are doing hard time in various federal
prisons.
And we're literally "making a federal case" against the most
dangerous criminals through F.A.S.T., Federal Alternatives to
State Trials, and through Project Triggerlock, which targets
career criminals who use or carry guns. We're "throwing the
federal book" at those who torment our cities, with no room for
them to duck: Conviction rates are close to 100 percent for
these cases, and sentences are running 15, 20 and 25 years for
gun and drug offenses. When it comes to lowering the crime rate
here, these ideas are working.
We like what works. And another approach that works is Weed
and Seed. Because the key to Weed and Seed is partnership --
partnership with the community / partnership between governments
/ and partnership between law enforcement and neighborhood
revitalization programs.
Weed and Seed is not so much a new spending program but a
whole new method of operating. It is a comprehensive approach to
combatting violent crime in some of America's hardest-hit
neighborhoods -- by focusing our resources to assist the
residents who want to take back their streets and rebuild their
communities.
Here's how it works. As the first step: federal, state and
local law enforcement concentrate their efforts on neighborhoods
like West Kensington corridor. Working with the community, they
3
"weed out" the violent offenders, the gangs, and the drug
traffickers.
But it's the community that leads the way -- as they are
here. Just last week [U.S. Attorney] Mike Baylson and 3,000
elementary school children marched with Concerned United
Neighbors Against Drugs -- right here in the Badlands. This
neighborhood is already taking the first step: taking back the
streets from the criminals and drug dealers -- once and for all.
They are literally taking the bad guys out of the Badlands. //
As the streets are reclaimed from the criminals, community
policing is put into place -- so that the ground, once taken, is
held. Police Commissioner Williams was one of the first to begin
community policing years ago here in Philadelphia. Police
commanders attend community meetings / officers patrol
neighborhoods on foot / and residents feel safe knowing who is on
the beat in their area. Community policing is one of the
reasons, we believe, that Philadelphia was spared some of the
violence that plagued other cities after the verdict in Los
Angeles two weeks ago.
Finally, the broad array of federal, state and local
government and private sector community revitalization programs
are brought to bear on the community -- to "seed in" long-term
stability, growth and opportunity. Drug prevention programs,
Head Start, job training, health care programs, community
development grants -- all are applied together -- in one place /
4
at one time / in a mutually reinforcing way -- in a true working
partnership with the community.
Philadelphia is breaking the cycle of violence because
Philadelphia knows that without effective law enforcement, the
social programs cannot succeed. Too often -- in the past -- we
have pursued our social programs and our law enforcement efforts
on separate tracks. As a result, many of our urban
revitalization efforts are being strangled by crime.
You know what I'm talking about: We build public housing
only to see these buildings taken over as crack houses.
We build model schools only to see them become war zones --
where teachers and students fear coming to class.
We build playgrounds for children only to see them become
battlegrounds for drug pushers.
When a neighborhood is overridden by crime, businesses are
driven away -- taking jobs and opportunities with them.
Potential investors and would-be employers are scared away;
builders and landlords are discouraged because property values
plummet. It has become increasingly clear -- to business owners,
parents, teachers, public housing residents, to anyone who reads
a newspaper -- that law enforcement is an absolute prerequisite
for social programs to succeed.
That is why the Weed and Seed strategy works -- because it
makes good, common sense.
I have asked Congress to authorize the designation of Weed
and Seed communities as enterprise zones. Once law enforcement
5
has done its job, growth and opportunity will be stimulated
through investment, job creation and local entrepreneurial
activity in crime- and drug-free neighborhoods.
We've seen Weed and Seed work in pilot sites such as Trenton
and Kansas City -- and as a result, this year 16 more cities have
begun Weed and Seed programs. We're seeking a substantial
expansion of the Weed and Seed program for FY 1993 -- we're
requesting $500 million be made available for up to 30 qualifying
cities next year. I have also asked Congress to immediately
authorize parts of Los Angeles as Weed and Seed sites, so that we
can help the community best by focusing our resources on those
areas that need help most.
The Weed and Seed approach is one of the answers people are
seeking. As I said in Los Angeles on Friday, it's time we tried
something different. A fresh approach. One that gives the word
opportunity real meaning.
I believe in policies that rely on the community for
guidance -- that encourage entrepreneurship, increase investment
and create jobs. In my view, the best hope for genuine community
renewal lies in those traditional institutions that emerge from
the communities themselves -- and that offer the best and
brightest hope for our children: the church / community groups /
and most importantly, the family.
In the final analysis, nothing can substitute for the clear
moral vision, the discipline, and the respect for authority that
religion, community values and strong families provide. By
6
shoring up the foundation of civilized society -- the family and
the local community -- our social programs can help fight both
poverty and crime.
Weed and Seed does just that -- by working, as partners,
with families, churches and community groups. The program's goal
is to create a climate in which these natural institutions can do
the job they have done so well for centuries.
One resident of a Weed and Seed neighborhood in Seattle,
Kathi Lehr, said it best: "I want my neighborhood to be a safe
place, where people know and respect each other, and there are
spoken community values about right and change." People like
Kathi Lehr have looked to their own neighborhoods and found their
answers.
The people of Philadelphia have found answers, too -- and
they lie in the courage and commitment of their neighbors who are
willing to try new solutions and find new hope for us all.
I applaud each and everyone of you for your good work in
bringing hope to your communities. Together, we will erase all
trace of the Badlands -- and renew it with all that is good.
Thank you for this warm Philadelphia welcome. God bless you
all and the United States of America.
#
#
#
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 8-92 ; 3:30PM ;
OPD->
2024566218:# 1
WESH WI'081 UA relever 1020 , 0- 0-92 i 7:31AM i
The White House-
OPD:# 1
Document No. 32673289
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/7/92
ACTION/CONCURRENGE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 P.M. FRIDAY 5/8
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS, PHILADELPHIA WEED AND SEED EVENT
SUBJECT:
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
MONDAY, MAY II, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
FORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
FITZWATER
YEUTTER
GRAY
FINDLAY
HOLIDAY
KAUFMAN
BOSKIN
REMARKS:
MARTINEZ
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm
at copy to this office.
122, Ext. 2930, NO LATER THAN 4:00 P.M., FRIDAY, MAY 8, with
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See comments and Education attachments.
PK
Pail 05/08 Kerfonta
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Becretary
Ext. 2702
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18 2
The White House*
OPD:# 2.
(Education)
Please see Education
see use suggestion Frenton Seattle NJ
Attachments
Nix
to instead of
May 7. 1982
as an example.
02 MAY 7 P6: 25
Draft one
PRESEDENTIAL REMARKS:
PHILADELPHIA WEED AND SEED EVENT
Mon (SHA)
HONDAY. MAY 11, 1992
(Ackhowledgemants -- Police Commissioner Willie Williams,
U.S. Attorney Miles Baylson, Mayer Ed Rendell, etc.]
As nest of you know, last week 3 visited South Central Los
Angeles. (stories from LA?) I saw herror, dismay and outrage.
But the people there are rebuilding their lives, looking for hope
and searching for anovers.
I've come here today because Philadelphia seems to have some
of the answers. Philadelphia is one city that is breaking out of
(Education)
the cycle of violence in America. 08 the top ten major cities in
America, it is the only city whose murder wate deceased last year.
Even more significant,
In Saway the premising name for Philadeiphians:- last year drug-
related murders dropped 3a percent.
so far, the good news is sentinuing - primarily because of
the hard work and cooperation of rederal, state and lecal law
enforcement on the front lines. They can be credited with
breaking the mold
trvine new selutions
using
innevative anxweaches to sembat violent crime. Wake # look at
the violent Traffickers Project, which started over in Spring
Garden [where ve were earlier). The project broke the back of
the darug gangs operating in Spring Garden. Already, more than
600 members of 30 suparate gangs in Philadelphia have been taken
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SENI 7939 7020 i := === : 7.40AM 7:32AM i
UPW*
IN $
The White House-
OPDIN 8
's
a
off the streets and are doing hard time in various federal
prisens.
And we're literally "making a federal case" against the mest
dangerous criminals through F.A.S.T., Federal Alternatives to
State Trials, and through Project Triggerlock, which targets
(Justice)
enross criminals Who use or carry yum. We're "throwing the
federal book" at those who terment our cities, with no seen
and we're leaving them
to dusis: Conviction rates are close to 200 percent for
these cases, and sentences are running 15, 20 and 85 years for
gun and drug offenses. when it COMES to lovering the evine rate
here, these ideas are working.
We like what works. And another approach that works is Weed
and Bend. Because the key to Weed and Send in paythership -
and private sector
(Justre)
partnership with the community partnership between governments
/ and partnership between law enforcement and neighborhood
revitalization programs.
Weed and Seed is not so such & new spanding program but at
whole new wathed of operating. Is is & comprehensive approach to
combating violent orime'in some of America's hardest-hit
and decay
(Justice)
neighborheods - by Secusing our reseuress to assist the
(Justice) residents who wants to take back their streets and rebuild their
Insert
communities.
from
Here's how it works. As the first step: federal, state and
P-4
local law enforcement concentrate their afforts on neighborhoods
like Howe Kensington corrider. working with the community, they
Insert solution from P.4 will describe problem before
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4
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The White House*
OPDI# 4
3
"weed our" the violent offenders, the gangs, and the drug
traffichers.
But it's the community that Leads the way -- as they are
here. Just last week [U.S. Attorney) Mike Bayison and 3,000
elementary school children marched with Concerned United
Neighbers Against Drugs -- right here in the Badlands. This
neighborhood is already taking the Sirst step: taking back the
streets from the criminals and drug dealers - once and for all.
They are literally taking the had guys out of the Redlands. "
As the streets are reclaimed from the criminals, community
policing is put into place -- se that the ground, ence taken, La
held. Police Commissioner Williams was one of the first to begin
community policing years age here An Philadelphia. Police
commenders attend community meetings / officers patrol
neighborhoods on foot / and residents feel safe knowing who is on
the best in their area. Community policing is one of the
reasons, we bulieve, that Philadelphia was spared some of the
violence that plagued other cities after the verdiet in Los
Angeles two weeks age.
Finally, the bread arway of federal, state and lesal
government and private sector community revitalization programs
are brought to bear on the community -- to "seed in" leng-term
stability, growth and opportunity. Drug prevention pregrams,
Head Start, job twaining, health care programs, community
development grants as all are applied together - in one place
enterprise zones,
(Justice)
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VFW"
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The White House+
OPD:#
(Justice)
weed & Seed begins with the common
sease principle that
at one time / in a mutually reinfereing way -- in a true working
(Justice)
partnership with the community.
Move
vithout effective law enforcement, the
social programs cannot succeed. Too often -- in the past - ve
to
have pursued our social programs and our law enforcement offerts
on separate tracks. As a result, many of our urban
P.
revitalization efforts are being strangled by orine.
2
You knew what I'm talking about: We build public housing
only to see these buildings taken ever as crack houses.
We build model schools only to see them become war sones --
where teachers and students fear coming to class.
We build playgrounds for children only to see them become
battlegrounds for drug pushers.
When a neighborhood is overridden by crime, businesses are
driven away - taking. jobs and opportunities with than.
Potential investore and would-be employers are scared away)
builders and landlords are discouraged because property values
plumet. It has become increasingly clear - to business ewners,
parents, teachers, public housing residents, to anyone who reads
a newspaper - that law enforcement is an absolute prerequisite
for social programs to succeed.
The weed and Good stratogy works - because it
makes good, seamen sense.
I have asked Congress to authorise the designation or Weed
and Bend communities as enterprise senes. Once law enforcement
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The White House- VFW'
9
OPD:# $
has done 1.tm job, grewth and apportunity will be skimulated
through investment, you creation and lecal entreprenourial
activity in orine- and drug-free neighborhoods.
We've seen Weed and seed work in pilot sites such as Tranton
and Xansas city -- and as a result, this year 16 more cities have
begun Yeed and Band programs. we're seeking a substantial
expansion of the Weed and Seed program for FY 1993 -- we're
requesting $800 million be made available for up to 30 qualifying
cities next year. I have also asked Congress to immediately
authorise parts of Lee Angeles as Weed and Seed sites, se that we
can help the community best by feausing our resources on these
areas that need help most.
The Weed and Seed appreach is one of the answers people are
seeking. As I said in Les Angeles on Friday, 16's time we tried
something different. fresh approach. one that gives the word
Apportunity real meaning.
= believe in policies that rely on the community for
guidance -- that encourage entreprensurship, increase investment
and create jobs. In ay view, the best hope for genuine community
reneval line in these traditional institutions that enarge from
the communities themselves -- and that offer the best and
brightest hope for our children: the church / community groups /
and most importantly, the family.
(Eduation)
In the final analysis, nothing can substitute for the clear
moral vision, the discipline, and the respect for authority that
change families
religion, community values and strong families provide. By
2. community values
land #} preciding paragraph seys families the most infortant
3. religion
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SENI IVAV , " 0"06 I 1.00AM
VPV*
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The White House"
OPD:# 7
s
shoring up the foundation of civilised society -- the family and
the loanl community - our social programs can help sight both
poverty and crime.
Week and Seed does just that - by working, as partners,
with families, churches and community groups. the program's goal
is to create a climate in which these natural institutions can do
the job they have done se well for senturies.
one resident of & Weed and seed neighborheed in Seattle,
Rathi Lehr, said 15 best: "X want my neighborhood to be a safe
(Education)
place, where people know and respect each other, and there are
spoken community values about and change." People like
Rathi Lohr have looked to their www neighborhoods and found their
answers.
The people of Philadelphia have found answers, too --
in the courage and commitment of their neighbore who are
willing to try new solutions and find new hope for us all.
I applaud each and everyone of you for your good work in
(HHS)
bringing hope to your communities. Tegether, ve will crase all
trace of the -- and renew it with all that is good.
get
of
Thank you for this vers Philadelphia welcame. God bless you
Badlands
all and the United States of America.
#
#
I
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UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
OFFICE OF ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION
BELL
May 8, 1992
NOTE TO LESLYE ARSHT:
I have reviewed the Presidential remarks for the President's trip
comments: to the Weed and Seed event in Philadelphia and have the following
1. Page 1, edit "top ten major cities" to "ten largest cities."
2. Page 2, "We like what works." This sounds superfluous, who
doesn't like what works.
3. Page 2, "And another approach that works is Weed and Seed."
The Weed and Seed program is new. There are two test sites that
have been in existence for over a year, however, the programs
operating in these sites have not been evaluated. We "think"
they funded. work. The bulk of the sites (16 of them) are just being
4. Page 4, "We build model schools only to see them become war
zones. ... " Two points need to be made, first schools themselves
are relatively safe (despite what you read in the paper), the
area surrounding the schools, however, are battlegrounds.
Second, I'm not too sure there are many "model" schools being
built in the inner city of Philadelphia.
5. Page 5, "this year 16 more cities have begun Weed and Seed
programs" should be changed to If this year 16 more cities will
begin Weed and Seed programs." The grants to these cities have
not yet been made.
6. Page 5, "I have also asked Congress to immediately authorize
parts of Los Angeles as Weed and Seed sites" should be changed to
"I have also asked Congress to immediately authorize funds for
parts of Los Angeles which we have identified as a new Weed and
Seed site."
7. Page 6, Seattle is used as an example of what good things can
happen to a was site. Suggest in light of negative press coming
out of Seattle (attached) another example be provided
use Trenton
If you have any questions on the above please contact me.
a city DOS
Bell
will have
Bill Modzeleski
on. Saa
400 MARYLAND AVE. S.W, WASHINGTON. D.C. 20203
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2065534999-
3561669/# 1
To: Eric Bero-TBP
FROM: Terry E.Derable, TRO-10
Twice 5/5/92
Federal grant plan still
drawing protectors
CITYWIDE
Educationment.
Weed and Seed. a federal
grant program to fight drugs
and street crime in high-crime
inner-city areas, continues to
draw protesters to City Hall.
In opposition to Mayor
Rice's plan to accept a $1.1
million Weed and Seed grant
from the U.S. Department of
Justice, about 35 people
marched in front of the Muniel-
pal Building yesterday morning
and that afternoon strended
the weekly City Council must-
ing
They fear Weed and Seed
will bring federal agents into
the Central Area. the target
neighborhood for the grant
program. according to Cynthia-
Milliam. one of the protest
organizers.
After the council meeting,
councilwomen Cheryl Chew
and Margaret Pagelar, who
heads the council's Public
Safety Committee. held $ ques-
non-and-answer session with
the demonstrators.
"We (the council and may-
or) are the people who define
what public safety is in
Seattle." said Chow. recesuring
the group that federal law
enforcement agencies such as
the FBI would not take over the
program.
Pageler said afterward that
-her committee probably will
consider the grant late this
month. Meanwhile. through &
series of meetings with Central
Area community members.
Rice is working to defuse oppo-
sition to the plan.
About two-thirds of the
money available will go for law
enforcement. Including expan-
sion of the East Presince com-
munity policing ream. The othe
er third will be spent OR social
services. including enti-drus-
use education programs and
job counseling programs for
unemployed tesnsgers.
up.
Document No. 326732ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/7/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 P.M. FRIDAY 5/8
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PHILADELPHIA WEED AND SEED EVENT
SUBJECT:
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
MONDAY, MAY 11, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
>
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
FINDLAY
GRAY
KAUFMAN
HOLIDAY
BOSKIN
REMARKS:
MARTINEZ
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm
122, Ext. 2930, NO LATER THAN 4:00 P.M., FRIDAY, MAY 8, with
a copy to this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
fools frå
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Nix
May 7, 1992
02 MAY 7 P8: 25
Draft One
WEED
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
PHILADELPHIA WEED AND SEED EVENT
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
MONDAY, MAY 11, 1992
[Acknowledgements -- Police Commissioner Willie Williams,
U.S. Attorney Mike Baylson, Mayor Ed Rendell, etc.]
As most of you know, last week I visited South Central Los
Angeles. (stories from LA?) I saw horror, dismay and outrage.
But the people there are rebuilding their lives, looking for hope
and searching for answers.
I've come here today because Philadelphia seems to have some
of the answers. Philadelphia is one city that is breaking out of
the cycle of violence in America. Of the top ten major cities in
America, it is the only city whose murder rate dropped last year.
In fact, the promising news for Philadelphians: last year drug-
related murders dropped 38 percent.
So far, the good news is continuing -- primarily because of
the hard work and cooperation of federal, state and local law
enforcement on the front lines. They can be credited with
breaking the mold
trying new solutions
using
innovative approaches to combat violent crime. Take a look at
the Violent Traffickers Project, which started over in Spring
Garden [where we were earlier]. The project broke the back of
the drug gangs operating in Spring Garden. Already, more than
600 members of 30 separate gangs in Philadelphia have been taken
2
off the streets and are doing hard time in various federal
prisons.
And we're literally "making a federal case" against the most
dangerous criminals through F.A.S.T., Federal Alternatives to
State Trials, and through Project Triggerlock, which targets
career criminals who use or carry guns. We're "throwing the
federal book" at those who torment our cities, with no room for
them to duck: Conviction rates are close to 100 percent for
these cases, and sentences are running 15, 20 and 25 years for
gun and drug offenses. When it comes to lowering the crime rate
here, these ideas are working.
We like what works. And another approach that works is Weed
and Seed. Because the key to Weed and Seed is partnership --
partnership with the community / partnership between governments
/ and partnership between law enforcement and neighborhood
revitalization programs.
Weed and Seed is not so much a new spending program but a
whole new method of operating. It is a comprehensive approach to
combatting violent crime in some of America's hardest-hit
neighborhoods -- by focusing our resources to assist the
residents who want to take back their streets and rebuild their
communities.
Here's how it works. As the first step: federal, state and
local law enforcement concentrate their efforts on neighborhoods
like West Kensington corridor. Working with the community, they
3
"weed out" the violent offenders, the gangs, and the drug
traffickers.
But it's the community that leads the way -- as they are
here. Just last week [U.S. Attorney] Mike Baylson and 3,000
elementary school children marched with Concerned United
Neighbors Against Drugs -- right here in the Badlands. This
neighborhood is already taking the first step: taking back the
streets from the criminals and drug dealers -- once and for all.
They are literally taking the bad guys out of the Badlands. //
As the streets are reclaimed from the criminals, community
policing is put into place -- so that the ground, once taken, is
held. Police Commissioner Williams was one of the first to begin
community policing years ago here in Philadelphia. Police
commanders attend community meetings / officers patrol
neighborhoods on foot / and residents feel safe knowing who is on
the beat in their area. Community policing is one of the
reasons, we believe, that Philadelphia was spared some of the
violence that plagued other cities after the verdict in Los
Angeles two weeks ago.
Finally, the broad array of federal, state and local
government and private sector community revitalization programs
are brought to bear on the community -- to "seed in" long-term
stability, growth and opportunity. Drug prevention programs,
Head Start, job training, health care programs, community
development grants -- all are applied together --- in one place /
4
at one time / in a mutually reinforcing way -- in a true working
partnership with the community.
Philadelphia is breaking the cycle of violence because
Philadelphia knows that without effective law enforcement, the
social programs cannot succeed. Too often -- in the past -- we
have pursued our social programs and our law enforcement efforts
on separate tracks. As a result, many of our urban
revitalization efforts are being strangled by crime.
You know what I'm talking about: We build public housing
only to see these buildings taken over as crack houses.
We build model schools only to see them become war zones --
where teachers and students fear coming to class.
We build playgrounds for children only to see them become
battlegrounds for drug pushers.
When a neighborhood is overridden by crime, businesses are
driven away -- taking jobs and opportunities with them.
Potential investors and would-be employers are scared away;
builders and landlords are discouraged because property values
plummet. It has become increasingly clear -- to business owners,
parents, teachers, public housing residents, to anyone who reads
a newspaper -- that law enforcement is an absolute prerequisite
for social programs to succeed.
That is why the Weed and Seed strategy works -- because it
makes good, common sense.
I have asked Congress to authorize the designation of Weed
and Seed communities as enterprise zones. Once law enforcement
5
has done its job, growth and opportunity will be stimulated
through investment, job creation and local entrepreneurial
activity in crime- and drug-free neighborhoods.
We've seen Weed and Seed work in pilot sites such as Trenton
and Kansas City -- and as a result, this year 16 more cities have
begun Weed and Seed programs. We're seeking a substantial
expansion of the Weed and Seed program for FY 1993 -- we're
requesting $500 million be made available for up to 30 qualifying
cities next year. I have also asked Congress to immediately
authorize parts of Los Angeles as Weed and Seed sites, so that we
can help the community best by focusing our resources on those
areas that need help most.
The Weed and Seed approach is one of the answers people are
seeking. As I said in Los Angeles on Friday, it's time we tried
something different. A fresh approach. One that gives the word
opportunity real meaning.
I believe in policies that rely on the community for
guidance -- that encourage entrepreneurship, increase investment
and create jobs. In my view, the best hope for genuine community
renewal lies in those traditional institutions that emerge from
the communities themselves -- and that offer the best and
brightest hope for our children: the church / community groups /
and most importantly, the family.
In the final analysis, nothing can substitute for the clear
moral vision, the discipline, and the respect for authority that
religion, community values and strong families provide. By
6
shoring up the foundation of civilized society -- the family and
the local community -- our social programs can help fight both
poverty and crime.
Weed and Seed does just that -- by working, as partners,
with families, churches and community groups. The program's goal
is to create a climate in which these natural institutions can do
the job they have done so well for centuries.
One resident of a Weed and Seed neighborhood in Seattle,
Kathi Lehr, said it best: "I want my neighborhood to be a safe
place, where people know and respect each other, and there are
spoken community values about right and change." People like
Kathi Lehr have looked to their own neighborhoods and found their
answers.
The people of Philadelphia have found answers, too -- and
they lie in the courage and commitment of their neighbors who are
willing to try new solutions and find new hope for us all.
I applaud each and everyone of you for your good work in
bringing hope to your communities. Together, we will erase all
trace of the Badlands -- and renew it with all that is good.
Thank you for this warm Philadelphia welcome. God bless you
all and the United States of America.
#
#
#
Ur
G
828
May 11 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
Pr
force ties between Europe and the United
including Senator Specter and these House
SU
States. The President welcomed the desire
OF
Members, agree. And we want to see it be
to strengthen transatlantic ties, which the
successful. But I came here to listen, and I
Wa
United States shares completely. The Presi-
really appreciate you all taking the time to
dent also noted the need to conclude the
tell me what's on your minds and what you
OF
Uruguay round trade negotiations.
think would be best for the community and
Pei
then see what we can do.
Mr. Baylson. Thank you, Mr. President.
I'd like Commissioner Williams to just say
Remarks and an Exchange With the
a few words first, and then he'll be followed
Weed and Seed Revitalization
by Sister Carol, who is seated to your left.
Committee and Community Leaders
Commissioner Willie Williams. Thank
in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
you very much, Mike. Mr. President, this
May 11, 1992
area that we're in right now, at some time
not in the too distant past, was probably one
Mr. Michael Baylson. Mr. President,
of the worst drug-dealing areas in the city
good afternoon. We are honored to welcome
of Philadelphia. You literally could not have
you to our "Weed and Seed" neighborhood
walked through the schoolyard or driven
to meet with the members of the Weed and
even your car up there without being har-
Seed Neighborhood Revitalization Commit-
assed by drug dealers. We had strong co-
tee and other community residents.
operation from the citizens. They simply
We want to tell you about some of the
asked us to "Please do whatever you can. We
innovative programs in Philadelphia. For ex-
ample, the Violent Traffickers Project, with
will work with you. We will stand behind you
whom you just met a few minutes ago, has
in trying to rid the area of some very, very
been active in this neighborhood, making
structured and organized drug gangs."
substantial progress arresting the larger drug-
We went about it through a combination
trafficking gangs. Also, last week a Federal
of traditional policing methods, using city po-
grand jury returned indictments against 72
lice, using State, Federal assistance, using the
defendants, allegedly members of the Cali
community's support and starting out with
cartel, their customers, or other major Phila-
the Violent Traffickers Project, I think. With-
delphia drug dealers, for dumping drugs into
in a 2-year period, we locked up at least 150
this community.
to 200 people. Ninety-eight percent of them
Mr. President, welcome to our "Weed and
pled guilty; the other 2 percent were found
Seed" area.
guilty in court. As I said, we were running
The President. Michael, well, thank you.
100 percent conviction rate. We snatched en-
What I really want to do is listen to people
tire structured, organized gangs out of the
in the community and from the city. I salute
neighborhood.
Michael for the job he's doing as U.S. Attor-
The next piece that we're now involved
ney; thank the commissioner for being at my
with is what we now call the "Weed and
side through this tour. I expect you're going
Seed," where law enforcement has come in
to miss him, but I think you're looking for-
and, to some degree, weeded out the very
ward to his arrival, to his new, enormous
difficult people. It is now up to the city, State,
challenge.
and Federal Agencies and the communities
Let me just say, I don't know if you've met
working together, to reclaim their own neigh-
Governor Martinez and Digger Phelps. Gov-
borhoods for themselves, working together.
ernor Martinez runs our National Drug Con-
That's where we're at right now, and Sister
trol program. And Digger, whom you all
Carol and others here are all part of this col-
know by reputation, I'm sure, who under-
lective effort from community, from govern-
stands a lot about the inner cities, he's got
ment, from law enforcement, and from other
a key role in our "Weed and Seed" program.
various volunteers.
We believe in this program. I know that
The President. Thank you, Commis
Members of Congress who are with us here,
sioner.
eorge Bush, 1992
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / May 11
829
and these House
Sister Carol Keck. We would like to wel-
you can look at. I spent 3 days putting these
vant to see it be
come you to-[inaudible]-your presence
documents together. They're copies of letters
e to listen, and I
here is very timely, just having returned from
and correspondence to political people and
king the time to
L.A., where you saw the devastation that riots
to people in the city government to try to
ds and what you
brought on that city. You'll probably see
attract their attention, to try to show them
community and
some of the same conditions here, without
what the plight of the community is. We've
having had the riots. The reason we didn't
been trying to develop jobs in this commu-
1, Mr. President.
have them is because of community coopera-
nity; we've run into problems with red-lining
'liams to just say
tion with the police and what the numerous
in the community.
he'll be followed
community groups have been doing to work
Yesterday I watched CNN, and the head
ated to your left.
to build up our community.
of the housing was being interviewed. He
Williams. Thank
The message we want you to leave here
said that they're doing a lot now to change
r. President, this
with today is that we want to build up our
housing in these communities. And I want
DW, at some time
community. We have the capacity to do it.
to tell you firsthand that at a meeting last
was probably one
We need the funds to have treatment pro-
week, we have problems with the insurance
areas in the city
grams, housing projects, housing, work, edu-
companies where they won't approve mort-
ly could not have
cation, recreation programs, prevention pro-
gages where there's 10 percent vacancy in
olyard or driven
grams. And we have the capability. We have
a block of property. If the Pennsylvania mort-
ithout being har-
neighborhood projects that are doing it, non-
gage insurance companies don't insure, then
e had strong co-
profit agencies, and we need the funds
the banks will not lend money, and those
ens. They simply
through this "Weed and Seed." The business
lines automatically get red-lined because the
tever you can. We
community has been working with us
banks will say, "We can't give you a mort-
i stand behind you
through the American Business Association.
gage." So there are laws that have to be ad-
of some very, very
We're interested in the enterprise zone legis-
dressed, and we need some political clout to
rug gangs."
lation. We see that as a piece of the solution
be able to address the issues and problems
igh a combination
to rebuild the infrastructure of our commu-
so that we can deal with it.
ods, using city po-
nity.
The other thing I would like to ask you
sistance, using the
The President. Well, I hope we can do
for is that the people in this community, not
starting out with
something on this enterprise zones. I will try
only the business community but the resi-
ject, I think. With-
to keep it out of the partisan politics.
dents, should be involved in turning the com-
ted up at least 150
Ironically, Sister, maybe not so ironically,
munity around. We are locked out of the
it percent of them
but at every level in Los Angeles, in the com-
boards, and we are locked out of the execu-
ercent were found
munity, community groups wanted that; they
tive committees and the areas of the city that
we were running
felt that that would draw jobs into the com-
are making the decisions on what happens.
3. We snatched en-
munity. So I think it's a new idea in that it's
We have no input. We have no insight. And
1 gangs out of the
never been tried at the Federal level. Lit-
there's no way that we can monitor what hap-
erally green-line these areas and have a, say,
pens when funds come down from Washing-
ve're now involved
zero capital gains so you can attract busi-
ton, where these funds are diverted to other
-II the "Weed and
nesses. So we're going to try, and I'm glad
projects in other areas, where our area is
ement has come in
that you all support that.
used as a display area to get the funds that
eded out the very
Mr. Baylson. To your right is a business-
are coming down here. I don't want to take
ip to the city, State,
man in this community. You just went past
any more of your time because I have every-
d the communities
his place of business on American Street. He
thing documented here.
would like to say a few words.
The President. I have one question on
.m their own neigh-
working together.
Mr. Sid Heifitz. Mr. President, I'm really
the-do we have time to ask one question
tht now, and Sister
honored to be here today, and I feel great
on the red-lining and stuff? Is that a Federal
all part of this col-
that you've taken the time to listen to the
law or a State law or a city-what is it?
concerns of our community here. We've
Mr. Heifitz. From what I know it's in the
unity, from govern-
been working here now for a lot of years try-
State legislature here. And we met with six
ent, and from other
ing to rebuild the community, and we've got
banks; we put a housing group together. The
a number of frustrations.
banks say they're ready to lend money for
nk you, Commis-
I have prepared a few things here that I'm
low-income housing and for mortgages, but
going to present to you that at your leisure
then the insurance companies, who were sit-
830
May 11 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
F
ting at the same table, tell us that they will
a project that the commissioner could de-
not approve mortgages in any community
scribe where they have these satellite pre-
where there's a 10 percent vacancy in the
cincts where the police officers get the con-
V
block. And all that does is create the whole
fidence of people in the neighborhood and
block to go. We can't lock these blocks and
are highly successful in discouraging drugs
bring them back.
from being in that area. I don't think it was
What we need is, we need HUD and we
as much spending as it was community in-
need the Pennsylvania Housing Authority to
volvement on the part, in this instance, of
come to meetings and work with us to try
law enforcement.
to look at the numbers of houses in these
Our Federal law enforcement, obviously,
blocks and either rehabilitate property or
should be in support of the locals and support
tear it down and make a garden out of it
of State law enforcement. I don't think any-
for the property next to it, so we can move
one wants to see a Federal police force. Now,
on and start to tie some of these neighbor-
we do have Federal Agencies that we can
hoods together again.
talk about; I mean DEA and the FBI and
The President. Thanks.
all that are involved when Federal laws are
Mr. Baylson. Mr. President, Miriam
being broken. But it's a combination, it
Colon is one of our community leaders in
seems to me.
the "Weed and Seed" area.
Ms. Miriam Colon. Mr. President, I have
Ms. Richardson. But, Mr. President, what
a vision. We in the community of United
I'm saying is, the seed part is supposed to
Neighbors Against Drugs have been envi-
be to reinvest in the community and to re-
sioning a drug-free community. And just like
build. In order to do this, we need funds to
Sister Carol, we have the same goals: we want
do this kind of work. Now what I'm saying
education, recreation. And we in the commu-
is, the budget for the "Weed and Seed" start-
nity do and can do our work and help out
ed out at $2 million. It has went down $1.1
in the community. So I also want to give you
million, $53,000 going to each community
a T-shirt
group in this area. What I'm saying is, how,
The President. Hey. Thank you.
with $53,000, are we supposed to reinvest
Ms. Colon.
-which is our Dreams of
and build up and bring these programs into
Tomorrow Drug-Free Community.
our area?
The President. That's very nice. Thank
The President. One, you can't do it with
you very much. And good luck, Miriam.
"Weed and Seed" money alone. That's one
Thank you.
thing. Two, we are going to the Congress to
Mr. Baylson. Mr. President, Florence
increase the "Weed and Seed" funds, and
Richardson is a leader of another community
I think we'll be successful. But it's got to be
group in the Hunting Park area which is part
that along with these other programs, I think
of our "Weed and Seed" territory just a little
most people would agree, because I don't
bit to the north.
think the "Seed" money itself will do it.
Ms. Florence Richardson. Mr. President,
I'll tell you, one of the key concepts is this
as you know, Hunting Park is one of the most
concept of trying to attract businesses to the
drug-infested areas that there is in Philadel-
community. The Sister spoke about enter-
phia. Mike Baylson has just talked about the
prise zones, and of course, that would help
72 arrests and the cartel. That was done in
because it would give people a break. One
Hunting Park. What I need to know from
of the things that is happening out in Los
you is that since we are talking about a multi-
Angeles right now is a major push to bring
million-dollar business as far as the drugs are
private businesses in by Peter Ueberroth. I
concerned, exactly how are we supposed to
don't know if you're read about his approach,
fight this kind of problem, especially talking
but it's one the commissioner will be running
about agencies, community agencies that
into out there. And I must say, the guy's very
deal with housing with limited funds?
optimistic about being able to do that. Of
The President. Well, I'm not sure that
course, that, in the final analysis, is the key,
funds is the entire answer. I just came from
a job in the private sector.
George Bush, 1992
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / May 11
831
nissioner could de-
So we're going to push for the enterprise
to start with your assistance, and that is a
these satellite pre-
zones that will make it more attractive for
Domestic Assault Response Team. Many of
officers get the con-
companies to come in and locate in this area.
our women, many in this neighborhood are
neighborhood and
Give people a tax break so-it's wasted-if
abused, neglected, and our elderly people are
discouraging drugs
you don't have any businesses, you're not los-
most often abused by their own caregivers.
I don't think it was
ing revenue, there's just nothing happening
Sometimes it's somebody very close in their
was community in-
there.
family. Sometimes it's even the person who
in this instance, of
So we think that this approach, coupled
comes and feeds them. And your Domestic
with the homeownership concept on our
Assault Response Team grant, which I know
recement, obviously,
public housing and urban development pro-
your administration's working on for Phila-
e locals and support
gram is a very good start on the part of the
delphia, will go a long way in helping.
t. I don't think any-
Federal Government. And so I hope-and
While the "Weed and Seed" money is less
al police force. Now,
"Weed and Seed," that's the third element
than what everybody had hoped for, it is at
(encies that we can
of it, with more funding.
least a start. And I'm convinced that if this
1 and the FBI and
Mr. Baylson. Mr. President, District At-
community-and I'll work with this commu-
en Federal laws are
torney Lynn Abraham would like to say a few
nity, I'll pledge my support to everybody
a combination, it
words.
around this table to work to make it hap-
Ms. Lynn Abraham. Mr. President, this
pen-if we show results with the $1.1 million
Mr. President, what
city, like many urban areas, is in bad need
that you have been so good enough to give
part is supposed to
of more hope. Most of its people need to
us, I'm sure that we will get more money
mmunity and to re-
feel as though they have a stake in the out-
from Washington to show that we are on the
S, we need funds to
come and an investment in their city. We
way to making this area a beautiful place for
ow what I'm saying
are experiencing a great deal of frustration.
the wonderful people to live here and thrive
eed and Seed" start-
But luckily, we have the infrastructure in
here again.
has went down $1.1
Philadelphia to work together. And the most
The President. Thank you.
to each community
enjoyable part of being a part of this govern-
Mr. Baylson. Efrain?
I'm saying is, how,
ment is that I'd like to think that the people
Mr. Efrain Rios. Thank you. Thank you
upposed to reinvest
of this city think and believe and know that
for coming out, Mr. President. We are hon-
these programs into
they are a vital part of the government and
ored. But I'm not hearing from my
that they are included. And we have worked
compañieros and compañieras. I'm not hear-
you can't do it with
very hard to do that.
ing much about our youth. Our youth are
:y alone. That's one
I'm happy also to note that, on a note of
at very, very high risk. I mean, our young
to the Congress to
personal thanks, the D.A. of a city doesn't
men are being locked up, and they're locked
1 Seed" funds, and
often get the chance to say this to the Presi-
up if they're out there selling drugs or in-
1. But it's got to be
dent of the United States person to person,
volved in violent acts. But at the same time,
er programs, I think
a thank you. While our needs are great, you
when they come out or if they do go in at
ree, because I don't
have been exceedingly gracious.
all, what are they coming out to? Those
Most of the work that these wonderful
itself will do it.
young males that are standing out on the cor-
people, Efrain Rios and Sister Carol and Mrs.
key concepts is this
ners with nothing to do. The city of Philadel-
nct businesses to the
Romero and Ms. Richardson and everybody
phia, as far as recreation is concerned, is
else that's sitting around this table, all the
spoke about enter-
broke. There's no money. Our recreation
work that they do in ridding their neighbor-
se, that would help
centers are closed down. There's no money
hood of drug dealers doesn't do anything if
for that.
eople a break. One
there is no room in our prisons to keep them.
We need to get our youth involved. Our
ppening out in Los
A few weeks ago, you were gracious enough
young people are looking for role models and
major push to bring
to send to Philadelphia Attorney General
looking for a place to go. I mean, the Norris
Peter Ueberroth. I
William Barr to get involved in prison cap
Square Park, which is right across the street
about his approach,
litigation for the safety of the community,
from here, is overused. It's a sitting park with
oner will be running
and that is extremely helpful. The "Weed and
benches, and its used for football in the win-
st say, the guy's very
Seed" program will be extremely helpful.
ter and hardball and baseball in the summer-
able to do that. Of
Also, I wanted everybody to know how im-
time. There's no place for our youth to go.
analysis, is the key,
portant I think that your contribution is going
The "Seed" money is just a drop in the
to be to a new program that we are hoping
bucket with all of the problems that we have
832
May 11 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
in this community, the homelessness. We
hood, Mrs. Melendez, to be represented as
have, five blocks from here, a vacant hospital.
one of the CUNAD members. They're the
I mean, that could be a fantastic rehab pro-
ones who can tell you better than any statis-
gram and also a skills training center for our
tics or any theories what it's like to be teach-
youth to create jobs, maybe to help to train
ing children who are hungry and don't know
these young males and females in the con-
where they're going to sleep at night, who
struction field to then rehab all of these aban-
may in fact themselves be caring for the
doned houses in our communities and get
younger ones in their families. And I think
some people some homes.
probably the most frustrating of all, to realize
So, please, just hear us and remember us.
that in a few short years, those cute children
The President. Thank you very much.
in our elementary schools may indeed be the
Mr. Baylson. Mr. President, Ed Zubrow
thugs on the corner that District Attorney
was a famous football coach at Penn, and he
Abraham and the police are talking about the
gave up that career, to go to work for the
need to lock up.
school board as the special assistant to the
So I want to call your attention also to goal
superintendent for drug policy. He's been a
number one, which says that all children will
real effective fighter and coach for all of us
begin school ready to learn, and repeat our
against drug abuse.
plea, and it is a repeated plea, for increased
Mr. Ed Zubrow. Thank you, Mr. Baylson.
funding for Chapter 1, for full funding for
And Mr. President, welcome to this city. I
Head Start, and for the funding of the
don't know about being a famous football
Women, Infants, and Children feeding pro-
coach. We were fortunate enough to play
gram which is so essential to give the schools
against teams like Yale and we
a chance. Thank you again for coming.
The President. Get out of here. I'll tell
The President. Thank you very much.
Paterno on you.
Mr. Baylson. Felicia? This young lady is
Mr. Zubrow. The last time that I met you,
a principal at the Potter Thomas School,
Mr. President, you were campaigning for
which is one of the neighborhood elementary
Vice President, and you came to this city and
schools.
visited our practice before the Vice Presi-
Ms. Felicia Melendez. Yes, and I am also
dential debate against Geraldine Ferraro,
an active member of CUNAD. I deal, day
and I welcome you back. It's encouraging to
in and day out, with my staff and my children
see you here today. In my work as assistant
from this community. And only seeing what
superintendent, I spend a lot of time working
we have to deal with, can we believe it? I
on national goal number six, which is safe,
am delighted that you're here today to see
drug-free schools. We're encouraged by the
or to take a look firsthand at the community
progress we're making towards goal number
where our children come from. They are,
six in this city. We recognize that with all
every child in our building-it's a miracle.
of our problems, for many of our children,
They are miracles because it's amazing what
the time they spend in school is the safest
we can do with them when they come to us,
that they'll be all day. We also recognize that
considering the situation, the family struggles
the most serious drug problem we have in
that they have to go through, and everything
our schools is the effects that other people's
they have to be and go through before they
drug use is having on our students.
come to us.
It's encouraging to see you here, but what
Mr. President, my plea to you today is not
was most encouraging for me today was when
for us here as community members, it's for
I arrived for the meeting and realized that
our children. Anything you can do-take
of the community leaders who are rep-
with you in your heart the children, our chil-
resented here, all of them are working with
dren and the needs they have. And please,
the schools in this neighborhood. Indeed,
we are here with our hearts, with our willing-
four of them work in the schools as school
ness, the willingness of a community and the
employees. I was very honored that Miriam
willingness of educators that are here to do
Colon invited the principal of the Potter
our jobs, to give our 100-plus percent to save
Thomas Elementary School in this neighbor-
our kids.
eorge Bush, 1992
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / May 11
833
e represented as
Saying it alone does not work. We must
the problem with the city is the demise of
pers. They'r the
take action. If action begins with having
the American family." Can somebody make
r than any statis-
President Bush, our first person in this Na-
suggestions? Of course, you know, we think
like to be teach-
tion, to come here and sit with us and listen
that what Ms. Melendez is doing and other
/ and don't know
to us, and let's hope that whatever we have
educators is a big, important part of how you
ep at night, who
to say and share with you does not go in one
overcome that. But if anyone has sugges-
3 caring for the
ear and out the other. I trust that you will
tions-and I'm not sure it's a government
ies. And I think
take with you the message that everyone here
thing-but has suggestions as to how you
no of all, to realize
is giving you. Let's keep on working to save
strengthen or turn around the decline in the
ose cute children
our kids. They are our future Presidents.
family, it would be extraordinarily helpful.
ay indeed be the
Maybe one of them will come back to us one
We've appointed a Commission, and I
District Attorney
day to sit with us and share with us and help
hope it's not just one more study effort that
talking about the
us.
gets filed and gathers dust. I'm just quoting
Thank you for being here. I do appreciate
what these mayors told me. And I mentioned
ntion also to goal
it on behalf of my kids. Thank you.
it out there in Los Angeles, and several of
i all children will
The President. Thank you, Felicia. Beau-
the churches say, "Well, you know, when you
and repeat our
tifully said.
have a decline in the family, the church has
ea, for increased
Mr. Baylson. Mr. President, Tomasita
to fill in a lot more." And then there was
full funding for
Romero is another community activist who
a very active boys club.
funding of the
is here with us and also works with children.
But I just wonder if there's anything legis-
en feeding pro-
Ms. Tomasita Romero. Thank you, Mr.
latively that's keeping the family apart, mak-
give the schools
President, for coming into our community.
ing it easier or better off if they live apart
r coming.
We're delighted to have you here. A Presi-
rather than together. We're looking at the
1 very much.
dent that is really willing to come and hear
laws from that end, but I'd welcome any
is young lady is
the cries of the community, we appreciate
comments. It's a very complex subject, but
Thomas School,
that very much.
it is-John, maybe?
nood elementary
Following our children, I work at a school
Mr. John Thomas. I'm very glad, also, to
nearby. I can tell you that every day I become
see that you're here today to listen to our
es, and I am also
involved with the results of what's outside
concerns. That, Mr. President, is the issue,
AD. I deal, day
the schools. It's sad to see how many of these
okay? The issue today is parental develop-
and my children
children that are affected through what's
ment. The issue today is bringing people to-
nly seeing what
going on in their families, and that's an out-
gether to know exactly what they need to do
we believe it? I
cry. I deal with it every day. I know our
in order to make the children stronger.
re today to see
teachers are there to teach and educate. But
One of the things that I, as a community
the community
what goes on on the outside is very sad, and
resident and as an active participant in this
rom. They are,
they have no control over it.
fight against drugs and in a fight to save our
-it's a miracle.
So thank you for coming today, and we
children-I also was a showoff at one time.
's amazing what
hope that maybe something can be done that
And only through the strength of my own
they come to us,
one day our communities will be drug-free
family, my mother, my father, my brothers,
family struggles
and that we're working together with our po-
and my sisters, did I know how to deal with
i, and everything
lice department and the communities and ev-
the pressures that were out there on the
ugh before they
eryone. Together, working towards the same
street.
goal, we can make a better place for our chil-
They had the strength inside themselves
you today is not
dren to live in. Thank you.
to reach out to me and say, "John, this is
embers, it's for
The President. Thank you, Tomasita.
where your life is. This is what you can do
can do-take
May I ask a question? I don't know who
with your life. These are the things that you
ildren, our chil-
could answer it. But I mentioned in the State
need to see so that you become a more posi-
ve. And please,
of the Union Address a visit I had from the
tive individual." I am here today to show my
with our willing-
mayors, including Tom Bradley out in L.A.,
support for our community, the Hunting
munity and the
and a lot of smalltown mayors, you know,
Park area, for my community center at St.
are here to do
women, men, Republican, Democrat, liberal,
Simeons, and for all the kids that are involved
percent to save
conservative. They came to me, and they
in the progams that we are trying to initiate.
said, "The number one problem we see in
We're working through different organiza-
834
May 11 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
tions within the area. We're trying to em-
for people to act out of character and become
power agencies by working collectively to-
upset in courtrooms about decisions.
gether and pooling our resources. But we are
I don't think the Government is totally re-
actively taking a role. If there was not an ac-
sponsible for the development of the whole
tive role taken in my life and in the kids that
city or of people individually. I think they
I deal with today, then they will ultimately
have a large part in that. But, however, I kind
find themselves on the outside using drugs
of become confused when we can give mil-
in crime situations.
lions of dollars away to other countries and
We're working together to bring about the
our own people are falling apart, and they
positive change, and one of the things that
see no hope and no challenges because the
we appreciate is your initial commitment
same challenge that we are facing, they are
with the "Weed and Seed." And it is our
being faced all over the U.S.A. So my ques-
hope and my own personal hope that this
tion to you is, how can we change the
will continue with strength so that our orga-
mindset of the way America is doing business
nizations can work together and collectively
so that people's self-esteem in America can
make the positive change with the parental
grow and develop and that the children
development first, strength in the family con-
themselves as well as the parents-because
cept, which in turn will turn into a child's
they only are carbon copies, the children are
development, who in turn will grow up and
only a carbon copy of their parents, and when
become the future and become a part of the
the parents become stronger and develop,
social change for positive redevelopment.
the children themselves will also.
And we're working very hard and very con-
So I see that the way America is doing
stant on this issue on an active level with indi-
business in relating to people in general must
vidual children who only understand one
be addressed, too. What is it that demands
thing: Why do I not have the same things
these people to look for drugs or to look for
that someone else has in another commu-
an easy way out of life? And I think that's
nity? Why am I not able to be part of an
a question that really has to be addressed
organized sports league? Why am I not able
as we hit the 21st century. Thank you.
to have a swimming pool that doesn't leak?
The President. Thank you very much. I
These are the issues at hand, Mr. Presi-
think the answer is to try some new ideas.
dent. We hope that you, as the leader of our
What we're doing we will all concede is not
Nation, as the leader of our people, can say,
enough. Some programs, certainly commu-
"Hey, now is the time that we're going to
nity programs, are an example for everybody.
take that step, to take an active role." You,
I mean, they work. And what we've heard
as the leader, can be that person to make
today is something new-or what I heard.
the first step. And I thank you again for com-
It may not be new to Philadelphia, but it's
ing.
new to a lot of the country in terms of the
Mr. Baylson. Reverend Bowens-from
"Weed" part of it.
Hunting Park, Mr. President.
So I think the answer to your question is,
Mr. Dave Marris. Can you hear me, Mr.
we've got to try these new approaches that
President? Good afternoon. I also feel the
hopefully will not only encourage community
same way. I'm a businessman in the commu-
service, like the "Seed"-ing part of the
nity as well. And I understand here we also
"Weed and Seed," but also bring jobs into
talk about in business supply and demand
the community from which you can then
or another way of saying it is causes and ef-
have more normal family lives. But that
fects. I have been saying here that there can
would be a very easy answer to a very com-
be no value in the whole unless there are
plicated question.
values in the part. And the problems and
Mr. Marris. There's no easy answer, I re-
challenges that we are facing not only here
alize that. But I think that if there's no de-
in Philadelphia, but throughout the U.S.A.
mand, then there wouldn't be a supply for
are extremely similar. And I think we have
the activities and the behavior pattern that's
to look at what is it that causes the demand
taking place throughout the U.S.A. So I know
for narcotics and what is causing the demand
that there's no easy answer, but I think that
George Bush, 1992
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / May 11
835
racter and become
decisions.
has to really be addressed as we talk about
if we can give millions of dollars to other
ament is totally re-
a pair of scissors, which side does the cutting?
countries, and we look at our own selves, and
ment of the whole
And I think they interrelate.
I look at our own situations, and we have
ually. I think they
So as we look at the behavior pattern of
to live with this day in and day out, it makes
ut, however, I kind
the people and the behavior pattern is the
the American people angry that we can't do
1 we can give mil-
reflection of the mindset and the behavior
better when we're trying very hard under bad
ther countries and
pattern of the U.S.A. So we really must deal
conditions.
g apart, and they
with that as a major issue. And I think if we
And we really wanted to try to make you
enges because the
can pinpoint that, some of the other behavior
aware that we feel that, as taxpayers, we
re facing, they are
patterns would disappear very rapidly.
shouldn't have to beg for help, that we should
'.S.A. So my ques-
The President. Great.
be able to come to our leadership and say,
1 we change the
Mr. Baylson. Half a minute, Reverend
listen, we have a problem, and we need our
a is doing business
Bowens, and we have to stop.
leadership in our cities with the pressure
m in America can
Rev. Parish Bowens. My name is Parish
from the President right on down to our Gov-
that the children
Bowens. I'm a part of the Hunting Park task
ernors and mayors to apply pressure on those
parents-because
force as well as the religious community and
other civic leaders to begin to respond to
S, the children are
a community activist. And much of what we
what the local people are doing because
parents, and when
are hearing and much of what we are seeing
they're not responding quickly enough and
ager and develop,
today is quite a reflection for the reason that
seriously enough. And we need to get past
II also.
you had the blowup in L.A., where the tre-
the redtape and get the monies that are
America is doing
mendous amount of pressure from being
there.
ole in general must
poor for a long time comes to bear at a weak
There are monies out there. Even the
S it that demands
point in our time. And though we don't agree
money that they got for the drug cartel that
rugs or to look for
with that situation, we can understand that's
has come out, where is that money going to
And I think that's
why it happened. And so we're in a depressed
go to? It should come back to the neighbor-
to be addressed
situation where our people cannot see their
hood that it came out of. If we don't see
Thank you.
way out, and because they cannot see their
that money, then we're constantly asking the
you very much. I
way out, the few people who are in the com-
question, where is our help coming from?
some new ideas.
munity who are active are doing a whole lot
Thank you, Mr. President.
all concede is not
with a whole little. And it seems to never
The President. Let me clarify one thing.
certainly commu-
get us to the place where we need to get.
Maybe you misunderstood part of what I
ple for everybody.
So we have a lot of people who are burning
said. I wasn't talking about tax breaks for a
what we've heard
out.
guy who doesn't have a job. What the enter-
-or what I heard.
Consequently, we appreciate the "Weed
prise zones does is talk about tax breaks for
iladelphia, but it's
and Seed" money, but we need long-term
people that are willing to set up a business
ry in terms of the
money and we need a lot more and we need
in an area so that it will be like a magnet,
it right away. Businesses are not going to
hopefully drawing jobs in there, even though
your question is,
come into our area looking like this, and we
the area may not be as attractive a part of
approaches that
don't have the power right now to lift it up
the city or something like that.
urage community
to a place where they will want to come in.
So that was the only point I wanted to add
ing part of the
Tax breaks for poor folk don't mean a whole
here because I think it really will work. But
SO bring jobs into
lot because take a dime out of a dollar, and
we're trying hard to get it done anyway, see
ch you can then
you need $50 to live; it doesn't mean any-
if it works.
lives. But that
thing.
Mr. Baylson. Mr. President, I'd like to
er to a very com-
So we need to really put some more em-
thank you very much. The people around this
phasis into providing the grassroots people
table have worked very hard to put together
easy answer, I re-
on block levels and right at the grassroots
our "Weed and Seed" application. And I
if there's no de-
level with a lot more capability of getting the
have told them that if the enterprise zone
i be a supply for
job done. Because I look at what we try to
bill passes, there will be more funds for
vior pattern that's
do and with a little bit of strength that we
"Weed and Seed" activities in this or the next
U.S.A. So I know
have, we are getting a lot done. But it's so
fiscal year. And we pledge that we're going
but I think that
little strength, and we need to be able to
to do our damnedest to make a difference
apply more. And as my brother said here,
in this neighborhood.
F
836
May 11 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
S
The President. I think you obviously al-
got a great Republican delegation from
ready are. But I'm most impressed with the
Pennsylvania, I might add, in the United
и
community spirit, because what they're say-
States Congress.
ing is, "How can we help some more?"
I was delighted to see Barbara Hafer ear-
C
Mr. Baylson. Right.
lier on. And, of course, Governor Mike Cas-
P
The President. Thank you very much,
tle, an old friend who's done a great job in
very much.
a neighboring State with us tonight. And I'd
be remiss if I didn't single out Elsie Hillman,
Note: The exchange began at 5:10 p.m. in
heading the campaign effort here in the Key-
the gymnasium at St. Boniface Church. In
stone State, and thank Dexter and then, of
his remarks, the President referred to Peter
course, our team of Bobby Holt, Wally
Ueberroth, chairman of the Rebuild L.A.
Ganzi. And then again, I'll single out Dexter,
Committee.
who gets the star seat. He gets to sit next
to Elsie, and that means he sold more tickets
than anybody else. So that's terrific. And, of
course, Charlie, Charlie Kopp, he is a fund-
Remarks at a Bush-Quayle
raising czar. He is our finance chairman, a
Fundraising Dinner in Philadelphia
great friend, and a loyal, loyal supporter. And
May 11, 1992
he is very successful-so successful that he
didn't have to go to our dog Millie for a single
Thank you all. And Peter, thank you very
dime. [Laughter] You may have seen our in-
much for that wonderfully warm introduction
come tax returns, and you can tell who earns
and for making me feel so welcome. I loved
the money in the family. Millie is not a "fat
walking out through that crowd because it
cat," but nevertheless has done a great job
gave me a chance to see so many people who
as our dog. [Laughter]
have been so supportive over the years, and
I am pleased to be here. And I want to
I am very, very grateful to you. Barbara and
share with you just some observations. This
I count our blessings, even in complicated
is a year where you're hearing a lot of talk
times, and I am very privileged to serve as
about change. And I would be the first to
President of the United States. Believe me,
concede that we must make significant
I'll never forget how I got there. It was good,
change in this country. I hear a lot of talk
strong, loyal friends out in the precincts and
about it coming out of the political arena,
at dinners like this over the years, and I am
but we've been trying to effect constructive
very grateful to all of you.
change.
May I thank Reverend Gambet for his in-
I came back from a very moving visit to
vocation; it was a unique invocation, and I
Los Angeles; we got back Friday evening.
kind of went along with the last part and
And let me just give you a short report of
could learn from the first part, but-[laugh-
what I saw and what I heard. Each one of
ter]-and Malcolm Evans for the national an-
us saw the images of hate and horror. That
them. I missed the Pledge of Allegiance
was all around you, images that we won't
crowd. I hear they were absolutely fantastic,
soon forget. But what I saw during my time
and some of them are back there, but thank
in Los Angeles, even in the hardest hit parts
you very much for a unique joint Pledge of
of south central L.A., should give us some
Allegiance. And I want to thank Peter and
cause for hope. Everywhere, the people I
David here for making this dinner happen.
talked with told about acts of individual hero-
Of course, Senator Specter, I'm just very
ism, about the extraordinary courage of just
pleased to have been with him today in what
plain ordinary people. And some braved the
for, I think, both of us was a very moving
gang of looters to form these bucket brigades
tour through some of the less privileged,
to put out fires when the firetrucks couldn't
some of the impacted parts of this great city.
get through. And then some stood up in the
Larry Coughlin is with us, who is our Bush-
face of angry mobs and reached across the
Quayle cochairman; Congressmen Weldon
barrier of color to save lives of their fellow
and Ridge and Ritter, all good people. We've
men and women. And many of these aren't