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"We, The People" - A Bicentennial Fair
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1563338
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"We, The People" - A Bicentennial Fair
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John O. Marsh Files (Ford Administration)
John Marsh's Bicentennial Subject Files
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American Revolution Bicentennial, 1776-1976
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The original documents are located in Box 72, folder "We, The People - A Bicentennial
Fair" of the John Marsh Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
W
We, the People
A BICENTENNIAL FAIR
MA
Place
Stamp
Here
W
We, the People
A BICENTENNIAL FAIR
390 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts 02215
Our organization would like to be involved with "We, the People" Fair activities:
to sponsor*
to exhibit
to participate in workshops, panel discussions, seminars or
critical issues
to provide or locate entertainment
to help staff the Fair
to publicize the Fair in our community and through our program
activities
Our organization would like more information or would like to further
discuss our participation with a member of your staff
*sponsors are required to send a formal letter to that effect
(Please print)
Name of Contact:
Phone:
Address:
Zip Code
Name of Organization:
THIS KIT CONTAINS:
Statement of Purpose
The Volunteer Revolution
"We, the People"
Location of "We, the People" Fair
Map of the Fairgrounds
Model of the Fairgrounds
Fairground Activities - What's Planned?
People Involved
Design Team
Volunteer Organizations
Government Agencies
Businesses
Board of Directors
Profile of Paul Sonnabend
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
"We, the People" will emphasize the role of the
volunteer in America, and will:
educate the public to the opportunities of
volunteerism, with particular emphasis on
broad exposure of the thousands of smaller
volunteer organizations throughout the
country
stimulate information and idea-exchange among
volunteer organizations
create a plan of action to address the specific
concerns of the voluntary sector
convene the voluntary sector to discuss the
participation of volunteers in solving the
social and human problems of America's third
century
recognize the value of volunteer service
throughout history
strengthen the volunteer ideals and lead to a
rededication of individual initiative
create a new wave of optimism and activism in
America
get Americans involved -- with the hope that
they will participate more fully in their
local communities
THE VOLUNTEER REVOLUTION
More than 68 million men and women in America think
it's time for another revolution - a revolution that
can make a great difference to the future of our
country.
They've heard the cynics say, "this country can't
survive the effects of inflation"; "can't cope with
the energy crisis"; "isn't capable of producing great
leaders". Yet 68 million Americans - the volunteers
of this country - say the cynics are wrong.
These are the volunteers behind a "revolution to
overthrow apathy", to reassert the unique power
Americans generated in 1776, and to emphasize the
best in our country.
We are a great nation. We became a great nation
through individual effort, and the action of volun-
teers. Volunteers signed the Declaration of Indepen-
dence; a volunteer fired the "shot heard round the
world"; Paul Revere rode as a volunteer. That was
our beginning.
Today, volunteer efforts touch every aspect of American
life
from civil rights, political campaigns, and pub-
lic T.V. to disaster relief, tutoring, and scouting.
The scope is infinite, but the goal is constant: to
give something of oneself to another.
These Americans have something to celebrate. Two
hundred years ago, volunteers sparked a successful
revolution which changed the complexion of the world.
Today, volunteers are trying to change the attitude of
a nation.
With this goal in mind, the volunteer sector of our
country conceived a three month Fair called "We, the
People", a Bicentennial Celebration to be held in
Washington, D.C. from April - June of 1976.
Similar in concept to the World Fairs in Montreal,
New York, and Kyoto, the Fairgrounds for "We, the
People", situated on 25 acres of land between the
Potomac River and the Tidal Basin, will be housed
in specially designed tension structures.
The structures will provide approximately 150,000
square feet of space for volunteer groups to explain
their programs and document their accomplishments.
Major central theme exhibits, complemented by indi-
vidual displays, will spread the message of both large
and small, community-based organizations. A limited
number of grants will be available to help small organ-
izations unable to participate without aid.
Education, recruitment, and information exchange will
be central to the Fair, all in an atmosphere of ex-
citement and enjoyment - a soft sell approach to vol-
unteerism. Panel discussions and workshops will be
conducted on such topics as "How to best use volun-
teers", "How to raise funds", and "How to relate to
government". All workshops and panel discussions will
be open to the fairgoers.
The Fair hopes to examine and confront the critical
issues facing this country - not only to encourage
volunteers to explore these issues, but also to deter-
mine how citizens might best help resolve them.
The Fair also hopes to strengthen the volunteer spirit
and encourage broader participation - especially in
smaller organizations - by demonstrating the effective-
ness and the rewards of voluntary service.
Over 25 of the nation's largest volunteer-coordinating
organizations have endorsed "We, the People" to lend
support in achieving these important goals. Several
thousand additional volunteer agencies have been con-
tacted and are being invited to participate in both
planning and exhibiting.
Paul Sonnabend, "We, the People" Chairman of the
Board, asserts that volunteer organizations will
learn much about themselves through this Fair.
"Agencies can communicate their message to the
public and, at the same time, determine their objec-
tives for the future. They can learn how to utilize
their manpower and how to work with government to
achieve their goals. "
Sonnabend, President of Sonesta International Hotels,
and a long time volunteer, believes that the Fair
will benefit many diverse segments of society by
helping to identify volunteer opportunities and by
linking individuals with appropriate programs.
"We, the People" is even enlisting the aid of a lead-
ing computer company to establish a national volunteer
"Hot Line" right on the Fairgrounds. Any interested
individual could fill out a card and immediately re-
ceive the name and address of volunteer programs look-
ing for assistance in his/her own neighborhood.
The revolutionary spirit and the spirit of volunteer-
ism encompass similar elements of free will, free
choice and dedication.
"We, the People" -- a Volunteer Celebration -- hopes
to free Americans from oppressive apathy and propel
them into rewarding, exciting voluntary action in
1976 and for years to follow.
It's time to recognize the unique contri-
butions volunteers make to our country.
It's time to stimulate a greater appreciation
and awareness of the value of voluntary service.
It's time to help us rediscover the basic
values upon which this country was founded.
It's time for another revolution.
SPONSORING AGENCIES OF "WE, THE PEOPLE" AND THEIR MEMBERSHIP
American Association of Fund-Raising Counsel
30
American National Red Cross
36,400,000
American Social Health Association
American Councils of the Arts
600 Agencies
Association of Junior Leagues of America
109,000
Boy Scouts of America
6,500,000
Camp Fire Girls, Inc.
600,000
Goodwill Industries of America, Inc.
Involvement Corps
National Assembly of National Voluntary Health
39 Agencies
and Social Welfare Organizations, Inc.
National Center for Voluntary Action
150,000
National Council for Homemaker-Home Health Aide
5,000
Services
National Council of Jewish Women
100,000
National Council on Crime and Delinquency
60,000
National Easter Seal Society
1450 Agencies
National Health Council
72 Agencies
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
182,000
National School Volunteer Program
750,000
National Society for the Prevention of Blindness, Inc.
National Society of the Volunteers of America
Partners of the Americas
43 Agencies
Planned Parenthood
190 Agencies
Project Concern
360
United Seamen's Service
120
United Way of America
1300 Agencies
VIGOR (Volunteers in Government of Responsibility)
250
VIP (Volunteers in Probation)
30,000
Women in Community Service
225 Agencies
TOTAL INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIPS: Approximately 44,836,760 people
TOTAL AGENCY MEMBERSHIPS:
Approximately 3,919 Groups
VA
We, the People
A BICENTENNIAL FAIR
390 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts 02215
617 266-7707
1785 Massachusetts Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20036
202 797-7800 EXT 45
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
HONORARY CHAIRMAN
MRS. GERALD R. FORD
Honorary Chairman
Mrs. Gerald R. Ford
HONORARY VICE CHAIRMEN
Chairman of the Board
Paul Sonnabend
MRS. HUBERT H. HUMPHREY
GOVERNOR GEORGE ROMNEY
Volunteer
Chairman of the Board
Executive Directors
Warren Dunn, Washington
National Center for
Irma Mann, Boston
Voluntary Action
MRS. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
FRANK STANTON
President
National Chairman
The Martin Luther King
American Red Cross
Center for Social Change
ROY WILKINS
Executive Director
N.A.A.C.P.
BOARD MEMBERS
PAUL SONNABEND, CHAIRMAN
BETTY BUMPERS
President
Consultant
Sonesta International
Hotels Corporation
RENA P. BUTTON
Executive Director
VERNON R. ALDEN
National Council of
Chairman of the Board
Jewish Women
The Boston Company
JERRY J. CAMPANA
WILLIAM ARAMONY
Project Manager
National Executive
"We, the People"
United Way of America
RUTH CLUSEN
SARAH S. AUSTIN
President
Vice President
League of Women Voters
The National Urban
Coalition
ELLSWORTH CULVER
Executive Director
JOYCE BLACK
Involvement Corps
President
Day Care Council
SARAH DAVIS
of New York, Inc.
President
National School
LAWRENCE B. BOLLING
Volunteer Program, Inc.
President
L.B. Bolling and
SUSAN A. DAVIS
Sons Box Company
National Self-Help Resource Center
JOSEPH BLATCHFORD
Former Director
Peace Corps
RUTH W. DEEN
HONORABLE EDWARD M. KENNEDY
HAROLD J. RUSSELL
Director
United States Senator
Chairman
Afro-American Music
President's Committee on
Opportunities Association, Inc.
MARY ANN LAWSON
Employment of the
President
Handicapped
HENRY DIAMOND
Association of
Partner
Volunteer Bureaus, Inc.
CATHERINE SAMUELS
Ruckelshaus, Beveridge,
Project Director
Fairbanks & Diamond
JUDGE KEITH J. LEENHOUTS
Women's Action Alliance
Director
WARREN DUNN
V.I.P.
JESSIE SARGENT
Executive Director -
Consultant
Washington
CHARLES LIPTON
"We, the People"
Chairman of the Board
JOHN SCHWARTZ
Ruder and Finn
President
GOVERNOR DANIEL J. EVANS
American Association of
State of Washington
JAMES P. LOW
Fund Raising Counsel
Executive Vice President
BAYARD EWING
American Society of
ROGER SONNABEND
Chairman
Association Executives
Chairman of the Board
Coalition for the
Sonesta International
Public Good
IRMA MANN
Hotels Corporation
Executive Director -
LESTER FISHER
Boston
RICHARD STAKES
Partner
"We, the People"
President
Fisher Brothers
Washington Star
CHARLES MARRAN
Station Group
WILLIAM C. FOSTER
President and Chairman
Partner
of the Board
MARY ANN STEWART
Patton, Boggs and Blow
Spencer Companies
Advisory Council
VIP
DAVID L. GAMBLE
HONORABLE RICHARD OTTINGER
President
Congressman
MARGERY STICH
David L. Gamble Company
Volunteer Director
LEO PERLIS
VIGOR
JOHN GARDNER
Director of
Chairman
Community Services
W. CLEMENT STONE
Common Cause
AFL-CIO
Chairman
Combined Insurance
WILLARD GARVEY
MARY D. POOLE
Company of America
President
President
Garvey International
Association of
ELLEN STRAUS
Junior Leagues
Chairwoman
EARL GRAVES
Call for Action
President
ANNE RICHARDSON
Earl Graves Publishers
Member, Board of Directors
WILLIAM SULLIVAN
National Center for
President
ROBERT GRAY
Voluntary Action
Metropolitan Petroleum
Executive Vice President
Company
Hill & Knowlton
ELLIOT RICHARDSON
Ambassador
DIANA VREELAND
DOROTHY HEIGHT
Court of St. James
Special Consultant
President
for Exhibitions
National Council
LENORE ROMNEY
Metropolitan Museum
of Negro Women
Member, Board of Directors
National Center for
GERRIDEE WHEELER
JACKIE HENDRICK
Voluntary Action
President
Vice President
National Association for
United Way of the
MORRIS B. ROTMAN
Mental Health
National Capitol Area
Chairman of the Board
Harshe, Rotman and Druck
MARGARET BUSH WILSON
ROBERT HILL, Ph.D.
Chairman
Executive Director
JILL RUCKELSHAUS
N.A.A.C.P.
National Center for
Director of National Affairs
Voluntary Action
National Center for
Voluntary Action
VERNON JORDAN
Executive Director
National Urban
League, Inc.
"WE, THE PEOPLE"
WHAT IS IT?
A Bicentennial Fair to focus on America's 68 million
volunteers; held on a 25-acre site in the West
Potomac Park in Washington, D.C.
WHEN'S IT HAPPENING?
Spring of 1976 - April, May and June
WHAT'S IT FOR?
To provide an educational forum where volunteer
organizations in America can tell their story,
recruit new volunteers and exchange information.
WHO'S INVOLVED?
Volunteer organizations are planning the exhibits.
Business and government are contributing materials
and expertise.
Architects, site planners, exhibit designers and
engineering firms are creating the environment,
designing the structures and coordinating volunteer
exhibits.
WHO'S INVITED?
All volunteer organizations are invited to participate,
and are given free space to do so.
The country's volunteers are invited to visit the
exhibits and participate in Fair activities.
And everyone can come enjoy exhibits, forums, workshops,
panel discussions, multi-media presentations, enter-
tainment, and celebrities. With the many options of
volunteerism displayed at "We, the People", Fairgoers
will be challenged to become more involved.
LOCATION
"We, the People" is located on 25 acres of land
in the West Potomac Park of Washington, D.C.
The land, donated by the National Capital Park
Service, is easily accessible by car, bus, or
boat, and is on the regular "Tourmobile" route.
Tourists arriving at National Airport will be
only 6 or 7 minutes from the Fairgrounds and
will have an impressive view of the site from
the air.
Once on the grounds, visitors can view the
Capital, the Washington Monument, and the
Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. During
the three month Fair, paddle boats are
planned to cross the Tidal Basin, bringing
tourists from the Washington Monument and
the Jefferson Memorial.
The famous Japanese cherry trees, which border
the Fairgrounds, add a spectacle of color to
this magnificent site, a fitting setting for
this Bicentennial Celebration.
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FAIRGROUND ACTIVITIES
On the Fairgrounds, Exhibit Row, the Outside Activity Area and
the Community Center will cover all aspects of volunteerism.
Each will provide a unique forum of participation by volunteer
organizations. In order to explore the wide range of volunteer
opportunities, the following exhibit centers are suggested:
EXHIBIT ROW
CENTER OF EXPERIENCE
ENVIRONMENT CENTER
FOR OLDER AMERICANS
Nature and Animal
Conservation
CENTER FOR HUMAN
GOVERNMENT CENTER
RIGHTS
HEALTH CENTER
CHILD CARE CENTER
IDEA CENTER
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Behavior and Motivation
CENTER
INTERNATIONAL CENTER
CORPORATE INVOLVEMENT
CENTER
LEGAL RIGHTS CENTER
CULTURAL CENTER
WOMEN'S CENTER
EDUCATION CENTER
YOUTH CENTER
OUTSIDE ACTIVITY AREA
AQUATIC CENTER
CENTER FIELD
Athletic Programs
COMMUNITY CENTER
CENTER FOR MUSIC,
MEDIA CENTER
ART AND DANCE
Press
Demonstrations of
Radio
Television
volunteer groups
in action
Staff
INFORMATION AND
THEME THEATRE
REFERRAL CENTER
Multi-Media Presentation
Volunteer "Hot Line"
on the History of
The Americorps
Volunteerism
"Umbrella" Agencies
VOLUNTEER CELEBRITY
CENTER
COMMUNITY CENTER
The largest tension structure on the Fairgrounds will be the
COMMUNITY CENTER -- an area for education and entertainment.
The following features will be part of the Center activities:
MULTI-MEDIA PRESENTATION
A multi-media presentation of volunteerism in a spectacle
of sights and sounds glorifying the unique role of volunteers
in American history and our nation's future.
CRITICAL ISSUES
Open forums of discussion on the critical issues facing
America today. Prominent thinkers like John Gardner,
Henry Kissinger, George Romney, John Kenneth Galbraith and
Marshall McLuhan will be invited to discuss issues like
"How to Change Attitudes", "How to Motivate a Nation", or
"Volunteerism: The Equality of Opportunity".
VOLUNTEER CHALLENGE
A convening of the volunteer sector to discuss the role of
volunteers in solving the social and human problems of
America's third century. This convocation will stem from
many local conferences reflecting grassroots thinking on
the critical issues facing this country. An area for idea
exchange on practical solutions to organizational problems.
Workshops, panel discussions and annual meetings for volun-
teer organizations participating in the Fair.
ENTERTAINMENT
A calendar of nightly entertainment by volunteer organizations.
Civic orchestras, high school bands and cultural groups
specializing in music, dance and theatre will be invited
to perform.
CELEBRITIES
Celebrities, associated with volunteer causes, will appear
to entertain and speak to visitors about volunteering.
Radio and television specials will emanate from the Fairgrounds,
volunteers will be honored in the Celebrity Hall of Fame, and
special awards will be presented.
HOT LINE
The Hot Line Computer System will be a dramatic feature of
the Fair. One of the country's largest computer companies
is working on coordinating the project. Volunteers will fill
out a card expressing their area of interest and geographical
location. Potential volunteers and those organizations
needing volunteers will be brought together.
PEOPLE INVOLVED
DESIGN TEAM
Some of the country's foremost architects, site planners,
exhibit designers and engineering firms will work as a team to
develop the fairgrounds.
Birdair Structures, Inc. - Fabricators
Designs, manufactures and installs air-supported and
light-weight structures. Responsible for the U.S.
Pavilion at the Spokane Fair and several pavilions at
the New York World's Fair.
Caudill Rowlett Scott - Architectural Site Planners
Architectural, planning and engineering firm dealing
with building design. Responsible for the student
activity center at Santa Clara University.
Concept Industries - Signage, Exhibit Planners, Concept,
Design, Graphics
Designs and produces trade show exhibits. Produced
exhibits for United Aircraft and the New York World's
Fair, New England Pavilion.
Dudley and Giordano - Project Management
Manages real estate development projects in the United
States and abroad. Also analyzes projects for bonding
institutions throughout the United States.
Geiger Berger Associates - Structural Engineers
Consultants for structural and mechanical engineering,
specializing in fabricated structures, tension structures
and air-supported structures. Responsible for structures
at Santa Clara University, the U.S. Pavilion in Osaka,
Japan and the Interama in Florida.
H.D.O. Productions - Fabricators/Rental
Rents and equips colorful party and exhibit tents.
Responsible for the annual Festival of American Folk
Life of the Smithsonian Institute.
Hans Krieks Associates (New York) Inc. - Design
Space planners and interior designers. Responsible
for national headquarters of Mercedes Benz of North
America, Inc.. Hans Krieks is Director of Masterclass,
a New York design school.
Holcombe Industries - Fabricators
Designs and fabricates tension-structures. Responsible
for the fabrication of tension-structures for Expo '70
in Osaka, Japan with Taiyo Kogyo, Ltd.
Malcolm Grear Designers, Inc. - Signage, Exhibit Planners,
Concept, Design Graphics
Deals with two and three dimensional designs from
printed material to environmental concepts.
Pope, Evans and Robbins - Site Engineers
Designs and manages construction of industrial and
public utility plants.
The Architects Collaborative, Inc. - Architectural Site
Planners
Largest architectural firm in New England specializing
in planning, landscape, interior design and architecture.
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
Government agencies will offer both expertise and
services to the Fair.
ACTION
American Revolutionary Bicentennial Administration
Museum of History and Technology, Smithsonian Institute
National Park Service, National Capital Parks
Washington, D.C. Bicentennial Commission
VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATIONS
Volunteer organizations nationwide are supporting the
Fair concept by providing their insights to the Design Team,
encouraging other volunteer organizations to participate and
publicizing the event.
American Association of Fund-Raising Counsel
American National Red Cross
American Social Health Association
Associated Councils of the Arts
Association of Junior Leagues, Inc.
Boy Scouts of America
Campfire Girls, Inc.
Involvement Corps
National Assembly of National Voluntary Health
and Social Welfare Organizations, Inc.
National Center for Voluntary Action
National Council for Homemaker-Home Health Aide
Services, Inc.
National Council of Jewish Women
National Council on Crime and Delinquency
National Easter Seal Society for Crippled Children
and Adults
National Health Council, Inc.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
National School Volunteer Program
National Society of the Volunteers of America
Partners of the Americas, Inc.
Project Concern
United Seamen's Service
United Way of America
VIGOR (Volunteers in Government Service of Responsibility)
VIP (Volunteers in Probation)
WICS (Women in Community Service)
BUSINESSES
Many businesses are contributing services, materials,
funds and expertise to the Fair. Some companies view "We,
the People" as their commitment to the nation's Bicentennial.
Allied Chemical
New York, New York
Birdair Structures, Inc.
Buffalo, New York
Blair, Inc.
Bailey's Cross Roads, Virginia
Burlington Industries, Inc.
New York, New York
Caudill Rowlett Scott
New York, New York
Carter, Rice, Storrs and Bement, Inc.
Boston, Massachusetts
Concept Industries
Framingham, Massachusetts
Daniels Printing Co.
Everett, Massachusetts
FMC Corporation
New York, New York
Fred Stone Reprographics
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Geiger Berger Associates
New York, New York
General Cinema Corp.
Boston, Massachusetts
Graphic Arts Finishers
Charlestown, Massachusetts
Hans Krieks Associates
New York, New York
H.D.O. Productions
Rockville, Maryland
Holcombe Industries
Redwood City, California
Kenyon Piece Dye Works, Inc.
Kenyon, Rhode Island
Malcolm Grear Designers, Inc.
Providence, Rhode Island
M & T Chemical, Inc.
Rahway, New Jersey
M. Hoffman & Co., Inc.
Boston, Massachusetts
M. Brown and Company
Boston, Massachusetts
Pope, Evans and Robbins
New York, New York
Publicity, Inc.
Boston, Massachusetts
Rapid American Corporation
New York, New York
Recording & Statistical Company
Dorchester, Massachusetts
Regal Lithograph Company, Inc.
Boston, Massachusetts
Ruder and Finn
New York, New York
Seaboard Allied Milling Corp.
Newton, Massachusetts
Sonesta International Hotels Corporation
Boston, Massachusetts
Spencer Companies, Inc.
Boston, Massachusetts
Sullivan Bros. Printers
Lowell, Massachusetts
The Architects Collaborative, Inc.
Cambridge, Massachusetts
The Hub Offset Company
Boston, Massachusetts
ESTIMATED BUDGET
April, 1975
It is expected that many corporations will contribute
goods and services which will substantially reduce
the costs of the Fair.
FAIR GROUNDS
Site Development
300,000
Site Utilities
200,000
Demolition/Site Restoration
100,000
Architectural and Structural
750,000
Mechanical
450,000
Miscellaneous Equipment
150,000
Taxes and Insurance (approx. 12%)
300,000
Sub-Total
2,250,000
ADMINISTRATIVE AND OPERATING COSTS
Administrative (before Fair)
300,000
Advertising and Promotion
200,000
Operating Costs during Fair
250,000
Program Development
100,000
Contingency
150,000
Sub-Total
1,000,000
TOTAL
3,250,000
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
From:
Robert T. Hartmann
To: Jack Marsh
a.m.
Date:
12/17
Time
p.m.
& believe. baby
Bicentenned has
been returned
to its rightful
father X
Plo handle x
DR. s R. FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
DEC 13 1974
MEMORANDUM FOR:
ROBERT T. HARTMANN
FROM:
ROY L. ASH
SUBJECT:
Wel the People -- A Bicentennial
Project
Paul Sonnabend came in to see me on the above project,
and I told him I would refer it to you. Sonnabend's
idea is that the Fair would be a cooperative effort
between the Government and the private sector, and
he's hoping that someone will help him in obtaining
government funds for the project from various agencies.
Apparently, he's already had considerable discussion
of the idea with Rog Morton.
SONESTA INTERNATIONAL HOTELS
CORPORATION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
6 December 1974
Mr. Roy Ash
Director
Office of Management and Budget
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear Mr. Ash:
I do want you to know how much I appreciate the time given to
me on Tuesday to discuss my proposal, WE, THE PEOPLE
with you. I hope that some of my enthusiasm can be shared
because I truly believe that this can be the most memorable
event to take place in the United States during the Bicentennial
Year and that there can be a long-term legacy from this project
which could cause some meaningful change in our country in the
future.
You indicated that you would bring this to the attention of
Mr. Robert Hartmann with the hope that he might become
interested and help in obtaining government funds from various
agencies. As I indicated to you, this Fair should be a cooperative
effort between government and the private sector and, therefore,
if I could raise about one million dollars in government funds I
believe that I could certainly raise the other two million from
foundations, individuals, and businesses.
Enclosed are two additional copies of our proposal for your use.
Once again, thank you for your interest and cooperation.
Sincerely yours,
Paul Sonnabend
Enclosures
390 COMMONWEALTH AVENUE . BOSTON, MASS. 02215 617-536-2700 CABLE SONESTA TELEX 94526
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 15
Mr. Marsh --
Brooles',
Tower's office called with the following #
for Paul Sonnabend:
(617) 536-2700.
we the People"
donna
DERALD is. FORD
April 25, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
RUSS ROURKE
Paul Sonnabend is down to the final straw. Ted Marrs has been
extremely helpful in exhausting all possible approaches for the
We, the People project.
The last straw is "will you contact John D. Rockefeller III in an
effort to put John D. and Sonnabend together for the purpose of
convincing John D.'s U.S.A. 200 to provide the necessary funding
for the We, the People project."
If you are not willing to do this, or if John S. rejects the proposal,
Sonnabend will reluctantly scratch their entire project.
Please advise.
GERALD 1888917 R. FORD
Guy THE -
WHITE HOUSE
FORD is LIBRARY
WASHINGTON
Paul Annobend
Marri- 1 no legal
Molulation - and as
policy matter, - is is
Spend of DMB
no dice-
sounabend also - said lown
Ted going said wait-taxy
to strike propect
my to vaise meney
from Fundations -no
dice -
THE WHITE HOUSE
washington
RAR eranglet of
Jahn D, III
Mank myst want
to inste Sonnabend
4 dorly III together to
to interest him -
If no dice, will
strike -
USA 200 & We the
People together - Paul B. FORD
had approached
LIBRARY GERALD
April 25, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
RUSS ROURKE
Paul Soanabend is down to the final straw. Ted Marrs has been
extremely helpful in exhausting all possible approaches for the
We, the People project.
The lautstraw is "will you contact John D. Rockefeller III in an
effort to put John D. and Sonnabend together for the purpose of
convincing John D.'s U.S.A. 200 to provide the necessary funding
for the We, the People project."
If you are not willing to do this, or if John a. rejects the proposal,
Sonsabend will reluctantly scratch their entire project.
Please advise.
FORD is LIBRARY GERALD
Sons
we The peops
November 17, 1975
Dear Mr. Sonnabend:
Many thanks for your recent letter concerning
Ruth Abrams.
I have taken the liberty of forwarding a copy of
ople
the materials relating to Mrs. Abrams to the
General Counsel here at the White House, Phil
insal
Buchen, for his review and information. I
am sure he will find them most interesting.
Thank you again for taking the time to bring
this qualified individual to our attention.
With kindest personal regards, I am
Sincerely,
John O. Marsh, Jr.
Counsellor to the President
Mr. Paul Sonsabend
Sonesta International Hotels,
Corporation
390 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts 02215
form DL/dl
FORD is LIBRARY 076838
NOV 17 1975
SONESTA INTERNATIONAL HOTELS
CORPORATION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
14 November 1975
The Honorable John 0. Marsh, Jr.
Counsellor to the President
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. Marsh:
I am sure you will recall our pleasant visit during our
discussions about We, the People, our Bicentennial Fair project.
I hope you will not think it presumptuous for me to bring to
your attention, a woman from Massachusetts who, I believe,
would be an outstanding candidate for Associate Justice of
The Supreme Court. As well as being a brilliant legal mind,
Ruth Abrams, being a woman and Jewish, would bring balance to
the Court.
The enclosed clippings will tell you something of her background.
She is at present a Justice on our Superior Court and is
generally spoken of as a strong possibility for the Massachusetts
Supreme Court in the near future.
With best wishes,
Paul Sonnabend
Enclosures
FORD : LIBRARY
390 COMMONWEALTH AVENUE BOSTON, MASS. 02215 617.536.2700 CABLE: SONESTA a TELEX 94526
The following biographical information on candidates has been furnished by the
CANDIDATES
Associated Harvard Alumni and is based on material provided by the candidates.
The order of listing of candidates herein was determined by lot.
JACK MACNIDER, A.B. '50, M.B.A.
and Criminal Law; Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee.
'52 of Mason City, Iowa. President and
Commonwealth of Massachusetts; Executive Committee.
General Manager, Northwestern States
Criminal Rules Committee, Commonwealth of Massachusetts:
Portland Cement Company. Director,
Governor's Committee on Abused and Neglected Children:
First National Bank, Mason City. Iowa.
American Bar Foundation. Editor of the Handbook for Leu
Trustee, Equitable Life Insurance
Enjorcement Officers for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Company of Iowa. Chairman and Di-
and miscellaneous law enforcement bulletins. Former Cor-
rector, Portland Cement Association.
responding Class Secretary, Class of 1953.
Director and Past Chairman, Iowa
Manufacturers Association. Past Presi-
dent, Mason City Chamber of Com-
BRYAN FRANCIS SMITH, A.B. 41.
merce. Director and Past President,
of Dallas, Texas. J.D., Columbia Uni-
Iowa College Foundation. Trustee:
University. Director, Officer of the
Upper Iowa University, Beloit College,
Board and Secretary, Texas Instru-
Midwest Research Institute. U.S. Marine Corps (1944-45).
ments Incorporated. Director: Ark-
Chairman, Upper Midwest Region, Twenty-fifth Reunion Gift
wright-Boston Insurance Companies.
Committee. Member, Overseers' Committee on University Re-
Southern Advisory Board: French
sources.
American Banking Corporation: Pres-
ton State Bank (Dallas). Member:
ROBERT W. GENTRY, M.D. '42, of
New York Stock Exchange Panel of
Pasadena, California. B.S., University
Arbitrators; The Conference Board.
of Connecticut. M.S. in Surgery, Uni-
Council of Financial Executives:
versity of Minnesota. Surgeon. Fel-
American Bar Association Section on
low in Surgery, Mayo Clinic (1943-
Antitrust Law and Panel on Corporate
47). Assistant to Staff, Mayo Clinic
Responsibility. Consultant and panelist for the U.S. General
(1947). Fellow, American College of
Accounting Office on Independent Research and Development
Surgeons, American Board of Surgery.
and Liquid Metal Fast Breeder Reactors (1973-74). Director:
Past Chairman, AMA Physician's Ad-
Dallas Chapter, Conference of Christians and Jews: Dallas
visory Committee on Television, Radio
Chamber of Commerce. Chairman: Community Council of
and Motion Pictures. Medical Advisor,
Greater Dallas, Countywide Health Department Committee.
Medic TV series. Member, Public Re-
Former Chairman, Dallas Museum of Fine Arts Corporate Pro-
lations Committee, AMA. Director,
gram. Trustee: University of Dallas, Cistercian Preparatory
American Arbitration Association.
School. Member: United Nations Association of U.S.A.
Past Director, Mayo Alumni Association. Chief of Staff, Board
American Panel on Parallel Studies Project with Japan. U.S.
of Directors, Pasadena Community Hospital. Medical Admini-
Army Air Force (1942-46). Member: Harvard Club of Dallas:
strative Corps Reserve (1940-14). Author of: Vascular Mal-
Harvard Club of New York City. Area Chairman for the 25th
formations, and Tumors of the GI Tract; Bilateral Adrenalec-
Reunion Gift, Class of 1941. Member of the Permanent Class
tomy. President, Harvard Medical Alumni Association of
Committee, Class of 1941.
Southern California. Director and Past President, Harvard
Club of Southern California. Chairman, Western Regional
JOHN WINTHROP, A.B. '58. of
Interview Committee, Harvard Medical School. Chairman,
Greenwich, Connecticut. M.B.A., Co-
Harvard Medical Conference of Los Angeles. Member, Over-
lumbia Graduate School of Business
seers' Committee to Visit the Medical School and School of
Administration. Chairman and Chief
Dental Medicine. Member, Resources Committee, Harvard
Executive Officer. Wood. Struthers &
Medical School.
Winthrop Management Company.
Chairman of Wood, Struthers & Win-
RUTH I. ABRAMS, A.B. '53, LL.B.
throp, Inc.'s Executive Committee.
'56. of Cambridge, Massachusetts. As-
Board of Directors. President. De-
sociate Justice, Superior Court, Com-
Vegh Fund. Director: Green Bay and
monwealth of Massachusetts. Special
Western Railroad (Wisconsin) Jones
Counsel, Supreme Judicial Court,
Heward Fund (Montreal). Chairman.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Greenwich Red Cross Fund Raising
(1971-72); Assistant Attorney Gen-
Drive 1975. Trustee, Greenwich Coun-
eral, Chief of Appellate Division
try Day School. Director: Fresh Air Fund (New York City
(Criminal) (1969-71): Assistant Dis-
Educational Policy Center (New York City). Author of articles
trict Attorney, Middlesex County
in the Boston Globe, Financial Analysts Journal, The Wall
(1961-69). Member: American Trial
Street Journal, Barrons, Trusts and Estates. Member. Over-
Judges Association; American Law In-
seers Committee to Visit the Department of History.
stitute; American Bar Association
Committees on Judicial Administration
Suburban
WALL
REG. U. $. PAT
Social News SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1973 AND BROCKT
Analysis
Judge Abrams: A Woman of Destiny
Who will be next Massachusetts Chief Justice?
to
Specidation Is developing on Bda-
Volpe wing of the Republican party
Chief Justice Tatro w
cont 11111 concerning whom Gov. MI.
DAVID FARRELL
during his 1970 campaign for the gove head the Superior Cour
shuel S. Dulcards will antialn! 111 head
ernorship.
Gov. Volue who promote
May 24, 1975
Dear Mr. Sonnabend:
I have your letter together with the attached copy
of your "We, the People" newsletter.
I deeply regret out inability to provide the measure
of assistance required by you to carry out your
program.
I recognize fully the sincerity of purpose and true
spirit of patriotism that prompted your volunteer
efforts.
With kindest personal regards, I remain,
Sincerely,
John O. Marsh, Jr.
Counsellor to the President
Mr. Paul Sonnabend
Office of the President
Sonesta International Hotels Corporation
390 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts 02115
JOM:cb
FORD & LIBRA
May 24, 1975
MEMORANDUM TO:
BILL WALKER
FROM:
JACK MARSH
Bill, Paul Sonnabend is a high-powered individual, who has a
sincere addsire to make a voluntary contribution of time and effort
to the United States. He should be kept in mind for a possible
part-time appointment to a Board, Commission or one of our
many "crash program# voluntary efforts. Thanks.
JOM:RAR:cb
FORD (is 0768 LIBRARY
SONESTA INTERNATIONAL HOTELS
CORPORATION
BOSTON
390 COMMONWEALTH AVENUE, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02215
APR30'75
1920
MASS
METER
507181
Mr. John O. Marsh
Assistant to the President
The White House
Washington, D.C.
SONESTA INTERNATIONAL HOTELS
CORPORATION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MAY 2 1975
+10m
April 30, 1975
Mr. John O. Marsh
Assistant to the President
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear Mr. Marsh:
It is with deep regret that we have canceled
"We, the People", our Bicentennial Fair. It
seemed impossible to properly complete the
entire project without any government help
in the form of a registration fee or site
preparation. I can well understand your in-
ability to help solve these problems, and I
do want you to know that I very much appre-
ciate your willingness to listen to our
story and be as helpful as possible.
What is particularly disturbing to me is that
I think we really could have made a signifi-
cant contribution to what I consider the most
serious problem in America today - the setting
of new goals and targets for the country that
will reunite a bitter, frustrated and divided
citizenry. The Bicentennial is an outstanding
opportunity to renew the American spirit and I
hope ways can be found to accomplish this.
In any case, I once again thank you for listen-
ing to our story. I am deeply committed to the
future of our country. If you ever have ways
you feel I could make a contribution, please
feel free to call upon me.
Sincerely yours,
Paul Sonnabend
FORD & LIBRARY OFRALD
390 COMMONWEALTH AVENUE . BOSTON, MASS. 02215 . 617.536.2700 CABLE SONESTA . TELEX 94526
NEWS LETTER
We, the People
A VOLUNTEER CELEBRATION
April 25, 1975
from.
Paul Sonnabend
"We, the People" must be canceled. That was the opinion
of the Directors at an emergency Board Meeting which
took place Friday, April 18th. Although we had received
substantial contributions in goods, services and money,
it seemed unrealistic to try and raise the additional
funding required within the time constraints. This dif-
ficult decision is not only disappointing to myself and
the staff, but to the volunteer organizations, the
cooperating businesses and the hundreds of volunteers
actively participating in the project.
What went wrong? There is no question that the deteri-
orating economic situation was a major factor
unfor-
tunately, many people who had made commitments to help
found they were unable to do so for a variety of reasons
their help, in many cases, was crucial to the success
of this project.
Most frustrating is that our architectural and program
plans were moving ahead with great success. Our staff
was operating effectively, working with over 400 volunteer
organizations to create a successful celebration.
If enthusiasm, energy and hard work were the determining
factors in producing "We, the People", there would be
little need for me to write this disturbing Newsletter.
Our ultimate objective of renewing the American spirit
and applauding the efforts of volunteers deserves to be
substantiated. Hopefully the Bicentennial Year will, in
a general way, accomplish this; for volunteers often dare
to try the seemingly impossible.
A word of thanks must go to our supporters whose help and
encouragement propelled this project
and sincere appreci-
ation and thanks to Irma Mann and Warren Dunn, our Co-
Directors, who accomplished all that was asked of them.
They had assembled a devoted and hard-working staff that
proved they had the capabilities to make "We, the People"
a success.
And lastly, a personal note, if I may
no one is more
disappointed than I about the turn of events that caused
us to cancel "We, the People". Like so many others, I
worked as hard as I possibly could to make this dream
come true. To my many friends - both old and new - I'll
never be able to thank you enough for your encouragement
and confidence
for those who feel that I let them down,
I can only express my profound sorrow
390 Commonwealth Avenue
1785 Massachusetts Avenue N.W.
Boston, Massachusetts 02215
Washington, D.C. 20036
crossed
Sonnabend
THE WHITE HOUSE
M
WASHINGTON
May 3, 1975
MEMORANDUM TO:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
RUSS ROURKE
I spoke with Paul Sonnabend this afternoon, advising him of the
"facts of life" with regard to the proposed meeting with the
President. I was very frank with Sonnabend, and gave him a very
candid run-down on the entire matter. He appreciated our frankness,
and requested that the proposed meeting with the President be
scrubbed.
He hastily added that he was enthusiastic about assisting the President
in any area wherein his services might prove helpful has only to
request his volunteer assistance.
CC: CLeppert
WRustand
TMarrs
m
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 1, 1975
Nit
MEMORANDUM TO:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
RUSS ROURKE R
SUBJECT:
TELEPHONE CONVERSATION WITH
PAUL SONNABEND
Jack, FYI, after a lengthy and emotional discussion concerning
the merits of the "We the People" project, Sonnabend asked whether
you thought there was any real value in the proposed meeting with
Tip O'Neill and the President. He has already sent out notices
concerning the project, but "still can't believe that this Administration
can't find $700, 000 for a great program that will get this country
moving again".
Tip O'Neill's staff has advised Sonnabend that the meeting with the
President has been set for May 12. Sonnabend had planned to leave
on a business trip to Europe on May 11, but will gladly reschedule
his trip if a meeting with the President presents any prospect of
affirmative action on his project.
A call to Warren Rustand indicates that the May 12 meeting information
from Tip O'Neill's staff to Paul Sonnabend was "bum dope". Warren
has no idea how Tip O'Neill's staff got that impression, and indicated
that his staffing memo re the Sonnabend schedule proposal is still
a viable inquiry.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 1, 1975
MEMORANDUM TO:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
RUSS ROURKE R
Jack, please note attached schedule proposal re Tip O'Neill/
Sonnabend ("We the People").
As indicated on Page 2 of the attached briefing paper, Sonnabend
intends to discuss "site preparation money" with the President.
As you know, Ted Marrs did an exhaustive review of all federal
funding assistance possibilities
without success.
Further, the attached Washington Post article would appear to
indicate that the final chapter on this project has been written.
I don't really see any valid purpose for this meeting, unless you
see some wisdom in requiring the President to go through this
exercise for Tip O'Neill's benefit. As a suggestion, you might
want to have Ted Marrs (either directly or through Charlie
Leppert) advise Tip of the exhaustive inquiries already made
by you and Ted in this matter.
cc: TMarrs
CLeppert
Washington Post Tues., April 29, 1975
$4 Million Bicentennial Fair
Canceled for Lack of Money
By Margot Hornblower
The fair, which was an-
United Way of America, the
Washington Post Staff Writer
nounced with some fanfare
American Red Cross, the
A $4 million Bicentennial
last month, would have housed
NAACP and Common Cause.
fair to honor the accomplish-
as many as 1,000 exhibits un-
Besides exhibits from volun-
ments of the nation's volun-
der several huge tents on 25
teer groups, the fair would
teers has been canceled be-
acres lent by National Capital
have housed a 1,000-seat audi-
cause its'sponsors were unable
Parks near the Lincoln Memo-
torium for forums and
to raise enough money for it.
rial.
speeches on voluntarism and
The cancellation of the fair,
"I'm very upset," Sonnabend
nightly entertainment by mu-
which was to open at West Po-
said. "A lot of people worked
sical and cultural groups.
tomac Park next March,
very hard on this and there
marks one of the first large
was great enthusiasm from
Bicentennial projects to be-
volunteer groups. We were
come a casualty of the coun-
trying to do what President
try's economic difficulties.
Ford has been talking about-
Paul Sonnabend, a Boston
renew the American spirit and
businessman who heads "We,
get everybody togethter."
the People," the nonprofit
Sonnabend said the group
group organizing the fair,
has spent about $100,000 since
said he had hoped to raise
planning began last Novem-
money from government agen-
ber. He had raised nearly $1
cies and corporations.
million, he said, and had tried
"The project was ready to go,
without success to raise more
The architects' and engineers'
from corporations and govern-
plans were finished," he said
ment agencies, including the
yesterday in a telephone inter-
Interior Department.
view. "But the lack of govern-
The board of directors of
ment support and the eco-
the group, with Betty Ford as
nomic conditions made it not
honorary chairman, included
worth while to take a gamble.
such political figures as Sen.
"It's a very difficult time to
Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.)
raise money. We had hoped
and former Michigan Gov.
the economy would get better,
George Romney, as well as
but there was no improve
representatives of such volun-
ment."
teer organizations as the
APR 30 1975
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 30, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JACK MARSH
TED MARRS
FROM:
WARREN RUSTAND
WS
R
SUBJECT:
Schedule Proposal for a Meeting with
Cong. Tip O'Neill and Mr. Paul Sonnabend,
Chairman of the Board of "We, the People. 11
I would appreciate having your comments and recommendation
on the attached.
THE WHITE HOUSE
SCHEDULE PROPOSAL
DATE: April 26, 1975
WASHINGTON
FROM:
Charles Leppert
THRU:
Max Friedersdorf
Vern Loen VL
mf
VIA:
Warren Rustand
MEETING:
Rep. Thomas P. O'Neill, Jr. (D-Mass.)
DATE:
Week of May 5, 1975
PURPOSE:
To give Rep. O'Neill the opportunity to introduce
to the President, Mr. Paul Sonnabend, Chairman
of the Board of "We, the People", a volunteer
organization sponsoring a Bicentennial Fair to be
held in West Potomac Park, April - June 1976.
FORMAT:
The Oval Office (15 minutes)
The President
Rep. Thomas P. O'Neill, Jr.
Mr. Paul Sonnabend
Charles Leppert, Jr. (staff)
CABINET PARTICIPATION: Secretary Rogers B. Morton (Interior)
SPEECH MATERIAL:
Talking points
PRESS COVERAGE:
None - White House Photographer
STAFF:
Charles Leppert, Jr.
RECOMMEND:
Max L. Friedersdorf
OPPOSED:
None
PREVIOUS PARTICIPATION: None
BACKGROUND:
1. "We, the People" was established by the
volunteer sector of the country, which con-
ceived a three month Fair, a Bicentennial
celebration to be held in Washington, D. C.
from April - June of 1976.
2
2.
The Fair is to be located on a 25-acre site
in West Potomac Park; the land was donated
by the National Park Service. More than 25
of the Nation's largest volunteer-coordinating
organizations have endorsed this proposal and
are planning the exhibits; business and govern-
ment are contributing materials and expertise;
architects, site planners, exhibit designers
and engineering firms are creating the environ-
ment, designing structures and coordinating
volunteer exhibits.
3. The Fair will provide an educational forum
where volunteer organizations in America can
tell their story, recruit new volunteers and
exchange information. All volunteer organiza-
tions are invited to participate, and are given
free space to do SO.
4.
Mrs. Ford is the Honorary Chairman of the
Board of Directors of "We, the People. "
5. Mr. Sonnabend, a close friend of Rep. O'Neill,
would like to discuss with the President, the
site preparation money. Although most of the
financing has been raised from private sources,
Mr. Sonnabend has discussed the money matter
with Department of Interior Secretary Morton.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 25, 1975
M
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
RUSS ROURKE
R
Paul Sonnabend is down to the final straw. Ted Marrs has been
extremely helpful in exhausting all possible approaches for the
We, the People project.
The laststraw is "will you contact John D. Rockefeller III in an
effort to put John D. and Sonnabend together for the purpose of
convincing John D. 's U.S.A. 200 to provide the necessary funding
for the We, the People project. 11
If you are not willing to do this, or if John D. rejects the proposal,
Sonnabend will reluctantly scratch their entire project.
Please advise.
Worres
kustand THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Rand-
1
"We, The People -
Tip O'Neil -
12 May
Question is,in
they any value m
such 4 meeting
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
sent out notices
concelling if -
But really
wants to prop
of him if
Precedent -
700K from clater us
Dept, 1
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
rounter organizations
My all these
qu mady to go -