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George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
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Ways and Means Bicentennial Dinner 7/24/89
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3
To POTUS 7/24 4:55pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
THE CAPITOL
JULY 24, 1989
Thank you. Speaker Foley, Leaders Michel and Gephart,
Chairman Rostenkowski, and especially all members and former
members of this great committee: Bar and I are delighted to be
here tonight, in this special room -- a room full of great
memories for all of us.
I remember very well that day in 1967 when Barber Conable
and I reported for duty -- the newest, least influential members
to grace this dias. In those days, there were no subcommittees,
no travel
Just stacks of ominous looking papers and an over-
crowded agenda. And a Chairman who knew more about the tax law
than anyone in America. I am of course talking about my esteemed
friend, Wilbur Mills.
I learned a lot from him, but I guess the lesson that has
stayed with me most is the way Wilbur treated us all. Once on
the committee, you were part of a team. Democrat, Republican --
no difference. The Chairman had time for you -- time to help you
learn and grow. Wilbur, I salute you -- and I am grateful to
you.
Johnny Byrnes of Wisconsin was ranking member then --
bright, energetic, and able. I learned a lot from Johnny, too.
Oh, we lost whatever partisan battles that came up -- we were
whipped before we started by the Mills mastery -- but we always
had a chance to speak up in hearings.
And now we're in a different era -- a different time. The
committee is bigger. There are subcommittees. Somehow things
seem more complex.
But this is the Ways and Means Committee. It's special --
always was, always will be.
I salute my friend, Bill Archer, who came into the Congress
from our home district the year I went out. We are friends. I
value his counsel.
And as for the Chairman -- well, I have to be careful here.
At this very moment in history we are circling, pawing the ground
once in awhile. Positioning
...
working for what we believe.
But let's face it: Dan is my respected friend. He is a
great Chairman. He loves this committee, as I do. And long
after reconciliation has passed, or some amendment goes up or
down, I will say proudly: I served on Ways and Means. I served
under a great Chairman -- and Dan Rostenkowski, my friend, is a
great Chairman, too.
# # #
056068SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/24/89
89 JUL 24 P12: 50
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE BICENTENNIAL DINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
-
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
PINKERTON
CICCONI
BOSKIN
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
1989
JUL
26
July 24, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH: CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
DANIEL McGROARTY Much
SUBJECT:
WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
I. SUMMARY
This evening at 6:30, you will attend the Bicentennial Dinner for
the House Ways and Means Committee, at the Capitol. After short
remarks by Congressman Archer and Speaker Foley, you will make
brief remarks. You will be introduced by Cokie Roberts, and
followed at the dias by Chairman Rostenkowski.
II. DISCUSSION
These remarks focus on the crucial work done on Ways and Means,
from the perspective of your own service on the Committee.
McGroarty/Martin
July 24, 1989
11:00 am
[WAYS]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
THE CAPITOL
JULY 24, 1989
6:30 P.M.
Thank you, Cokie. I am delighted to be here this evening to
celebrate the 200th anniversary of the oldest committee in the
history of Congress, with so many Ways and Means members, past
and present.
I would be remiss if I didn't salute a few special friends
here tonight. Speaker Tom Foley and Majority Leader Dick
Gephart; Republican Leader Bob Michel; my good friend and
fellow Texan Bill Archer, and my Chairman from my time on the
Committee, Wilbur Mills.
Finally, my dear friend -- ever since we served on this.
Committee together -- the Chairman, Dan Rostenkowski, who told me
last December in his inimitable fashion that I would be here
tonight. He told me that same day that I was the eighth member
of Ways and Means to become President in its two hundred years.
Two hundred years is a long time -- a proud tradition for
those of us who have had the honor to serve on Ways and Means.
They say the only two things in life that you can count on are
2
death and taxes. That means until God says your time is up --
your fate's in the hands of Ways and Means.
I began my career in Washington at this end of Pennsylvania
Avenue, on this Committee. I took my seat down at the end of the
table, and got a real political education.
Ways and Means is the engine room of democracy. Taxes,
trade, growth, debt, the deficit, social security -- whatever the
issue, Ways and Means is where the work gets done. This is where
we forge consensus from the clashing of different views.
In this room sit the men and women whose decisions shape our
nation -- who match national will and national resources. I've
always maintained the deepest respect for the work you do -- and
the way you do it.
What I learned as a member of Ways and Means has been
invaluable. What I remember most about my time here is the
collegiality. The sleeves-up atmosphere. The open and honest
exchange of views. But above all, the readiness on both sides of
the aisle to resolve honest differences in a spirit of good will
-- for the good of this nation.
3
That's the spirit that upholds the finest tradition in the
long history of this committee -- and it's the spirit that's
going to see us through the tough work ahead.
It's a pleasure to be with you tonight -- to be among
friends -- to share in this celebration. I will always be
honored to call myself an alumnus of Ways and Means.
# # #
1989
JUL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
THE CAPITOL
JULY 24, 1989
Thank you. Speaker Foley, Leaders Michel and Gephart,
Chairman Rostenkowski, and especially all members and former
members of this great committee: Bar and I are delighted to be
here tonight, in this special room -- a room full of great
memories for all of us.
I remember very well that day in 1967 when Barber Conable
and I reported for duty -- the newest, least influential members
to grace this dias. In those days, there were no subcommittees,
no travel
Just stacks of ominous looking papers and an over-
crowded agenda. And a Chairman who knew more about the tax law
than anyone in America. I am of course talking about my esteemed
friend, Wilbur Mills,
I learned a lot from him, but I guess the lesson that has
stayed with me most is the way Wilbur treated us all. Once on
the committee, you were part of a team. Democrat, Republican --
no difference. The Chairman had time for уод time to help you
learn and grown Wilbur, I salute you -- and I am grateful to
He saf patiently at the head of this table, all other muhus have eloeulu gove
you.
the giving tabs
Johnny Byrnes of Wisconsin was ranking member then time to flaid awa
settest Republic
bright, energetic, and able. I learned a lot from Johnny, too. at walte
Reutun or
the papped out organization the that head of the
to appland
Treasury awards
watchdog of the
Oh, we lost whatever every partisan battles that came up -- we were
ever
A
never mind,
whipped before we started by the Mills mastery -- but we always
had a chance to speak up in hearings,
And now we're in a different era -- a different time. The
committee is bigger. There are subcommittees. Somehow things
seem more complex.
But this is the Ways and Means Committee. It's special --
always was, always will be.
Com frudship goes bach a long way.
I salute my friend, Bill Archer Bill came into the Congress
mser X
I inpect him and
from our home district the year I went out. We are
friends.
I
value his counsel, He has never forgotten the people
m an Rotict - he never will.
And as for the Chairman -- well, I have to be careful here.
At this very moment in history we are circling, pawing the ground
each
each
once in awhile. Positioning working for what we believe
I understand that I aspreciate that
But let's face it: Dan Rosteukowshi ^ is my respected friend. He is a
all
great Chairman. He loves this committee, as A do. And long
after reconciliation has passed, or some amendment goes up or
the Comittee on
down ^ I will say proudly: I served on Ways and Means. I served
under a great Chairman and Dan Rostenkowski, my friend, is a
great Chairman, too.
# # #
this is repealed
on on that is extended
# \ insert
I vowed not to talk substance tought
and ticle recall two ,
but Very recently 1 I had a substantur
the Chairman,
comensation with A Polands son
Somewhat to my surpore -
He told we - of directly - that
lower tax rates are needed that
labor reform is necessary, and
attracted hat by not cream taxing capital
more capital unt be
at the rate ors income.
same all will he impressed avay as I am man
by You General Jaruzelsk is and impressures
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 24, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
ROBERT J. PORTMAN DIP
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Ways and Means Committee
Bicentennial Dinner
Pursuant to your staffing request of July 21, 1989, Counsel's
Office has reviewed the above-referenced Presidential remarks.
We have no legal objection to the contents of these remarks.
Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.
CC: James W. Cicconi
12 70Γ 68
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 24, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON, DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
NICK CALIO, DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FOR
LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS
RE:
Comments on Ways and Means Speech
I propose that the language below be substituted for paragraph 2
on page 1. The "salute" does not cover all the necessary people.
Moreover, it is inaccurate in that Proxmire won't be there -- he
has nothing to do with the Committee. The "salute" is also a
little abrupt given that this promises to be a warm and
sentimental evening and given the relationship between the
President and Rostenkowski.
"I would be remiss if I didn't salute a few special friends here
tonight. Speaker Tom Foley and Majority Leader Dick Gephardt;
Republican Leader Bob Michel; my good friend and fellow Texan
went
Bill Archer; and my Chairman from my time on the Committee,
Wilbur Mills. Finally, my dear friend, ever since we served on
this Committee together, the Chairman, Dan Rostenkowski, who told
me last December in his inimitable fashion that I would be here
tonight. He told me that same day that I was the eighth member
of Ways and Means to become President in its 200 years.'
CC: Jim Cicconi
89 JUL 24 A10: 02
056068SS
4.7.
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/21/89
7/24/89 10:00 AM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE BICENTENNIAL DINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
BOSKIN
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Monday, July 24, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
15:80 12 700 68
A
No Comments
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
056068SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/21/89
7/24/89 10:00 AM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE BICENTENNIAL DINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
BOSKIN
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Monday, July 24, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
sk
SE :6v 12 70Γ 68
7m
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
McGroarty/Martin
July 21, 1989
4:10 pm
[WAYS]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
THE CAPITOL
JULY 24, 1989
6:30 P.M.
Thank you. I am delighted to be here this evening to
celebrate the 200th anniversary of the oldest committee in the
history of Congress, with so many Ways and Means members, past
and present.
I want to salute a few special friends here tonight. Dan
Rostenkowski, Chairman of Ways and Means. My good friend and
fellow Texan Bill Archer, ranking minority member. And I want to
say a special hello to a special guest: Senator William
Proxmire.
Two hundred years is a long time -- a proud tradition for
those of us who have had the honor to serve on Ways and Means.
They say the only two things in life that you can count on are
death and taxes. That means until God says your time is up --
your fate's in the hands of Ways and Means.
I began my career in Washington at this end of Pennsylvania
Avenue, on this Committee. I took my seat down at the end of the
table, and got a real political education.
2
Ways and Means is the engine room of democracy. Taxes,
trade, growth, debt, the deficit, social security -- whatever the
issue, Ways and Means is where the work gets done. This is where
we forge consensus from the clashing of different views.
In this room sit the men and women whose decisions shape our
nation -- who match national will and national resources. I've
always maintained the deepest respect for the work you do -- and
the way you do it.
What I learned as a member of Ways and Means has been
invaluable. What I remember most about my time here is the
collegiality. The sleeves-up atmosphere. The open and honest
exchange of views. But above all, the readiness on both sides of
the aisle to resolve honest differences in a spirit of good will
-- for the good of this nation.
That's the spirit that upholds the finest tradition in the
long history of this committee -- and it's the spirit that's
going to see us through the tough work ahead.
It's a pleasure to be with you tonight -- to be among
friends -- to share in this celebration. I will always be
honored to call myself an alumnus of Ways and Means.
# # #
056068SS
7.7
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/21/89
7/24/89 10:00 AM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE BICENTENNIAL DINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
)
BOSKIN
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Monday, July 24, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Lt
:
11A
No Comments
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
056068SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/21/89
7/24/89 10:00 AM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE BICENTENNIAL DINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE N/C
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER N/C phone
DARMAN N/C plune
STUDDERT N/C phone
BATES N/C phone
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON N/C
DEMAREST N/C
BOSKIN w/cplione
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Monday, July 24, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
McGroarty/Martin
July 21, 1989
4:10 pm
[WAYS]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
THE CAPITOL
JULY 24, 1989
6:30 P.M.
Thank you. I am delighted to be here this evening to
celebrate the 200th anniversary of the oldest committee in the
history of Congress, with so many Ways and Means members, past
and present.
I want to salute a few special friends here tonight. Dan
Rostenkowski, Chairman of Ways and Means. My good friend and
fellow Texan Bill Archer, ranking minority member. And I want to
say a special hello to a special guest: Senator William
Proxmire.
Two hundred years is a long time -- a proud tradition for
those of us who have had the honor to serve on Ways and Means.
They say the only two things in life that you can count on are
death and taxes. That means until God says your time is up --
your fate's in the hands of Ways and Means.
I began my career in Washington at this end of Pennsylvania
Avenue, on this Committee. I took my seat down at the end of the
table, and got a real political education.
2
Ways and Means is the engine room of democracy. Taxes,
trade, growth, debt, the deficit, social security -- whatever the
issue, Ways and Means is where the work gets done. This is where
we forge consensus from the clashing of different views.
In this room sit the men and women whose decisions shape our
nation -- who match national will and national resources. I've
always maintained the deepest respect for the work you do -- and
the way you do it.
What I learned as a member of Ways and Means has been
invaluable. What I remember most about my time here is the
collegiality. The sleeves-up atmosphere. The open and honest
exchange of views. But above all, the readiness on both sides of
the aisle to resolve honest differences in a spirit of good will
-- for the good of this nation.
That's the spirit that upholds the finest tradition in the
long history of this committee -- and it's the spirit that's
going to see us through the tough work ahead.
It's a pleasure to be with you tonight -- to be among
friends -- to share in this celebration. I will always be
honored to call myself an alumnus of Ways and Means.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 24, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER
RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Ways and Means Committee
Bicentennial Dinner
The draft remarks look good. We have no suggested changes
from a policy standpoint and approve of the draft in its
present form.
CC: James W. Cicconi
82:28 12 700 68
056068SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/21/89
7/24/89 10:00 AM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE BICENTENNIAL DINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
PINKERTON
CICCONI
BOSKIN
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Monday, July 24, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
McGroarty/Martin
July 21, 1989
1909
4:10 pm
[WAYS]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
THE CAPITOL
JULY 24, 1989
6:30 P.M.
Thank you. I am delighted to be here this evening to
celebrate the 200th anniversary of the oldest committee in the
history of Congress, with so many Ways and Means members, past
and present.
I want to salute a few special friends here tonight. Dan
Rostenkowski, Chairman of Ways and Means. My good friend and
fellow Texan Bill Archer, ranking minority member. And I want to
say a special hello to a special guest: Senator William
Proxmire.
Two hundred years is a long time -- a proud tradition for
those of us who have had the honor to serve on Ways and Means.
They say the only two things in life that you can count on are
death and taxes. That means until God says your time is up --
your fate's in the hands of Ways and Means.
I began my career in Washington at this end of Pennsylvania
Avenue, on this Committee. I took my seat down at the end of the
table, and got a real political education.
2
Ways and Means is the engine room of democracy. Taxes,
trade, growth, debt, the deficit, social security -- whatever the
issue, Ways and Means is where the work gets done. This is where
we forge consensus from the clashing of different views.
In this room sit the men and women whose decisions shape our
nation -- who match national will and national resources. I've
always maintained the deepest respect for the work you do -- and
the way you do it.
What I learned as a member of Ways and Means has been
invaluable. What I remember most about my time here is the
collegiality. The sleeves-up atmosphere. The open and honest
exchange of views. But above all, the readiness on both sides of
the aisle to resolve honest differences in a spirit of good will
-- for the good of this nation.
That's the spirit that upholds the finest tradition in the
long history of this committee -- and it's the spirit that's
going to see us through the tough work ahead.
It's a pleasure to be with you tonight -- to be among
friends -- to share in this celebration. I will always be
honored to call myself an alumnus of Ways and Means.
# # #
REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
THE CAPITOL
JULY 24, 1989
6:30 P.M.
THANK YOU. SPEAKER FOLEY, LEADERS MICHEL AND
GEPHART, CHAIRMAN ROSTENKOWSKI, AND ESPECIALLY ALL
MEMBERS AND FORMER MEMBERS OF THIS GREAT COMMITTEE:
BAR AND I ARE DELIGHTED TO BE HERE TONIGHT, IN THIS
SPECIAL ROOM -- A ROOM FULL OF GREAT MEMORIES FOR ALL
OF US.
- 2 -
I REMEMBER VERY WELL THAT DAY IN 1967 WHEN BARBER
CONABLE AND I REPORTED FOR DUTY -- THE NEWEST, LEAST
INFLUENTIAL MEMBERS To GRACE THIS DIAS. IN THOSE DAYS,
THERE WERE NO SUBCOMMITTEES, NO TRAVEL
JUST STACKS
OF OMINOUS LOOKING PAPERS AND AN OVER-CROWDED AGENDA.
AND A CHAIRMAN WHO KNEW MORE ABOUT THE TAX LAW THAN
ANYONE IN AMERICA. I AM OF COURSE TALKING ABOUT MY
ESTEEMED FRIEND, WILBUR MILLS.
- 3 -
I LEARNED A LOT FROM HIM, BUT I GUESS THE LESSON
THAT HAS STAYED WITH ME MOST IS THE WAY WILBUR TREATED
US ALL. ONCE ON THE COMMITTEE, YOU WERE PART OF A
TEAM. DEMOCRAT, REPUBLICAN -- NO DIFFERENCE. THE
CHAIRMAN HAD TIME FOR YOU -- TIME TO HELP YOU LEARN AND
GROW.
- 4 -
HE SAT PATIENTLY AT THE HEAD OF THIS TABLE, ALL OTHER
MEMBERS HAVING GONE ELSEWHERE GIVING THE LOWEST
REPUBLICAN TIME To FLAIL AWAY AT WALTER REUTHER OR TO
APPLAUD THE HEAD OF THE ORGANIZATION THAT PASSED OUT
THE WATCHDOG OF THE TREASURY AWARDS. WILBUR, I SALUTE
YOU -- AND I AM GRATEFUL To YOU.
JOHNNY BYRNES OF WISCONSIN WAS RANKING MEMBER
THEN -- BRIGHT, ENERGETIC, AND ABLE. I LEARNED A LOT
FROM JOHNNY, Too.
- 5 -
OH, WE LOST EVERY PARTISAN BATTLE THAT EVER CAME UP --
WE WERE WHIPPED BEFORE WE STARTED BY THE MILLS
MASTERY -- BUT, NEVER MIND, WE ALWAYS HAD A CHANCE TO
SPEAK UP IN HEARINGS.
AND NOW WE'RE IN A DIFFERENT ERA -- A DIFFERENT
TIME. THE COMMITTEE IS BIGGER. THERE ARE
SUBCOMMITTEES. SOMEHOW THINGS SEEM MORE COMPLEX.
BUT THIS IS THE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE. It's
SPECIAL -- ALWAYS WAS, ALWAYS WILL BE.
- 6 -
I SALUTE MY FRIEND, BILL ARCHER. OUR FRIENDSHIP
GOES BACK A LONG WAY. BILL CAME INTO THE CONGRESS FROM
OUR HOME DISTRICT THE YEAR I WENT OUT. I RESPECT HIM
AND I VALUE HIS COUNSEL. HE HAS NEVER FORGOTTEN THE
PEOPLE IN OUR DISTRICT -- HE NEVER WILL.
I VOWED NOT TO TALK SUBSTANCE TONIGHT BUT VERY
RECENTLY, AND HE'LL RECALL THIS, I HAD A SUBSTANTIVE
CONVERSATION WITH THE CHAIRMAN, POLAND'S SON.
- 7 -
SOMEWHAT TO MY SURPRISE -- HE TOLD ME --
DIRECTLY -- THAT LOWER TAX RATES ARE NEEDED, AND THAT
MORE CAPITAL MUST BE ATTRACTED BY NOT TAXING CAPITAL AT
THE SAME RATE AS INCOME.
CHAIRMAN JARUZELSKI IS A VERY IMPRESSIVE MAN.
AND AS FOR THIS CHAIRMAN -- WELL, I HAVE TO BE
CAREFUL HERE. AT THIS VERY MOMENT IN HISTORY WE ARE
CIRCLING, PAWING THE GROUND ONCE IN AWHILE.
- 8 -
POSITIONING
EACH WORKING FOR WHAT EACH BELIEVES.
I UNDERSTAND THAT. I APPRECIATE THAT.
BUT LET'S FACE IT: DAN ROSTENKOWSKI IS MY
RESPECTED FRIEND. HE LOVES THIS COMMITTEE, AS WE ALL
DO. AND LONG AFTER RECONCILIATION HAS PASSED, OR SOME
AMENDMENT GOES UP OR DOWN, OR THIS IS REPEALED, OR THAT
IS EXTENDED, I WILL SAY PROUDLY: I SERVED ON THE
COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS.
- 9 -
I SERVED UNDER A GREAT CHAIRMAN -- AND DAN
ROSTENKOWSKI, MY FRIEND, IS A GREAT CHAIRMAN, TOO.
# # #
REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
THE CAPITOL
JULY 24, 1989
6:30 P.M.
THANK YOU. SPEAKER FOLEY, LEADERS MICHEL AND
GEPHART, CHAIRMAN ROSTENKOWSKI, AND ESPECIALLY ALL
MEMBERS AND FORMER MEMBERS OF THIS GREAT COMMITTEE:
BAR AND I ARE DELIGHTED TO BE HERE TONIGHT, IN THIS
SPECIAL ROOM -- A ROOM FULL OF GREAT MEMORIES FOR ALL
OF US.
- 2 -
I REMEMBER VERY WELL THAT DAY IN 1967 WHEN BARBER
CONABLE AND I REPORTED FOR DUTY -- THE NEWEST, LEAST
INFLUENTIAL MEMBERS TO GRACE THIS DIAS. IN THOSE DAYS,
THERE WERE NO SUBCOMMITTEES, NO TRAVEL.... JUST STACKS
OF OMINOUS LOOKING PAPERS AND AN OVER-CROWDED AGENDA.
AND A CHAIRMAN WHO KNEW MORE ABOUT THE TAX LAW THAN
ANYONE IN AMERICA. I AM OF COURSE TALKING ABOUT MY
ESTEEMED FRIEND, WILBUR MILLS.
- 3 -
I LEARNED A LOT FROM HIM, BUT I GUESS THE LESSON
THAT HAS STAYED WITH ME MOST IS THE WAY WILBUR TREATED
US ALL. ONCE ON THE COMMITTEE, YOU WERE PART OF A
TEAM. DEMOCRAT, REPUBLICAN -- NO DIFFERENCE. THE
CHAIRMAN HAD TIME FOR YOU -- TIME TO HELP YOU LEARN AND
GROW.
- 4 -
HE SAT PATIENTLY AT THE HEAD OF THIS TABLE, ALL OTHER
MEMBERS HAVING GONE ELSEWHERE GIVING THE LOWEST
REPUBLICAN TIME TO FLAIL AWAY AT WALTER REUTHER OR TO
APPLAUD THE HEAD OF THE ORGANIZATION THAT PASSED OUT
THE WATCHDOG OF THE TREASURY AWARDS. WILBUR, I SALUTE
YOU -- AND I AM GRATEFUL TO YOU.
JOHNNY BYRNES OF WISCONSIN WAS RANKING MEMBER
THEN -- BRIGHT, ENERGETIC, AND ABLE. I LEARNED A LOT
FROM JOHNNY, TOO.
- 5 -
OH, WE LOST EVERY PARTISAN BATTLE THAT EVER CAME UP --
WE WERE WHIPPED BEFORE WE STARTED BY THE MILLS
MASTERY -- BUT, NEVER MIND, WE ALWAYS HAD A CHANCE TO
SPEAK UP IN HEARINGS.
AND NOW WE'RE IN A DIFFERENT ERA -- A DIFFERENT
TIME. THE COMMITTEE IS BIGGER. THERE ARE
SUBCOMMITTEES. SOMEHOW THINGS SEEM MORE COMPLEX.
BUT THIS IS THE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE. IT'S
SPECIAL -- ALWAYS WAS, ALWAYS WILL BE.
- 6 -
I SALUTE MY FRIEND, BILL ARCHER. OUR FRIENDSHIP
GOES BACK A LONG WAY. BILL CAME INTO THE CONGRESS FROM
OUR HOME DISTRICT THE YEAR I WENT OUT. I RESPECT HIM
AND I VALUE HIS COUNSEL. HE HAS NEVER FORGOTTEN THE
PEOPLE IN OUR DISTRICT -- HE NEVER WILL.
I VOWED NOT TO TALK SUBSTANCE TONIGHT BUT VERY
RECENTLY, AND HE'LL RECALL THIS, I HAD A SUBSTANTIVE
CONVERSATION WITH THE CHAIRMAN, POLAND'S SON.
- 7 -
SOMEWHAT TO MY SURPRISE -- HE TOLD ME --
DIRECTLY -- THAT LOWER TAX RATES ARE NEEDED, AND THAT
MORE CAPITAL MUST BE ATTRACTED BY NOT TAXING CAPITAL AT
THE SAME RATE AS INCOME.
CHAIRMAN JARUZELSKI IS A VERY IMPRESSIVE MAN.
AND AS FOR THIS CHAIRMAN -- WELL, I HAVE TO BE
CAREFUL HERE. AT THIS VERY MOMENT IN HISTORY WE ARE
CIRCLING, PAWING THE GROUND ONCE IN AWHILE.
- 8 -
POSITIONING
EACH WORKING FOR WHAT EACH BELIEVES.
I UNDERSTAND THAT. I APPRECIATE THAT.
BUT LET'S FACE IT: DAN ROSTENKOWSKI IS MY
RESPECTED FRIEND. HE LOVES THIS COMMITTEE, AS WE ALL
DO. AND LONG AFTER RECONCILIATION HAS PASSED, OR SOME
AMENDMENT GOES UP OR DOWN, OR THIS IS REPEALED, OR THAT
IS EXTENDED, I WILL SAY PROUDLY: I SERVED ON THE
COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS.
- 9 -
I SERVED UNDER A GREAT CHAIRMAN -- AND DAN
ROSTENKOWSKI, MY FRIEND, IS A GREAT CHAIRMAN, TOO.
# # #
Johhny Byrnes of wisconsin was the ranking member
bright energetic able. i learned
a lot from John Byrnes ,too
Oh we lost whatever partisan battles came up- we were whipped
before we satarted by the mills mastery, but we always had a chance to speak up in hearings.
And now we're in a different era, a different time. The committeee is bigger. There
are sub committees. Somehow things seem much more complex.
But this is the3 EWays and Means Committeee It is special was, always will be.
I salute my friend Bill Archer who came intop the Congress from our homw district the year thast
I went out. We are freinds. I value his counsel.
And as for the new chairm, an. Well I have to be careful here. At this very moiment in
history we arwe circling , pawing the ground once in awhile, positioning
working for what we
believe
But let's face it.
Dan is my respected friend
He is a great Chairman. He
loves htis Committee as I do
and long after reconciliation has passed, or
some amendment goes up on or down, I iwll say proudly. I served on W & M/
I served under a great chairman. and Dan Rostenkowski, my friend, is a grea chairman too.
Thank you Dan
Speker Foley, Leaders Michel and Gephart, and especially
all Members and former memeber S of this great commitee.. Bar and I are
deloghtegh- delighted to be here tonight, in this special room
a room full of
great memories for all of us.
I rememebr very well that day in 1967 when Barber Conable and I reported for duty- the newest
least influential members to grace this dias
In those days there were no sub committees,
no travel
just stacks of ominous looking appers an overcrowded agenda, and a Chairman
that knew more abotu the tax law than anyone in the USa/. I am of course talking abvout
my esteembd friend Wilbur mills. I learned a lot from him. but I guess the lesson
I learned that has stayed with me most is the whe lesson relating on how Wil;bur
treated us all. Onde on the committeee you were a part of the team Democratt,
Republican-- no difference. The Chairman had time for you. Time ot help you learn and grow.
Wilbur I salute you and I am grateful to you.
056068SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/21/89
7/24/89 10:00 AM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE BICENTENNIAL DINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
PINKERTON
CICCONI
BOSKIN
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Monday, July 24, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
NC
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
McGroarty/Martin
July 21, 1989
1989 JUL 211
4:10 pm
[WAYS]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
THE CAPITOL
JULY 24, 1989
6:30 P.M.
Thank you. I am delighted to be here this evening to
celebrate the 200th anniversary of the oldest committee in the
history of Congress, with so many Ways and Means members, past
and present.
I want to salute a few special friends here tonight. Dan
Rostenkowski, Chairman of Ways and Means. My good friend and
fellow Texan Bill Archer, ranking minority member. And I want to
say a special hello to a special guest: Senator William
Proxmire.
Two hundred years is a long time -- a proud tradition for
those of us who have had the honor to serve on Ways and Means.
They say the only two things in life that you can count on are
death and taxes. That means until God says your time is up --
your fate's in the hands of Ways and Means.
I began my career in Washington at this end of Pennsylvania
Avenue, on this Committee. I took my seat down at the end of the
table, and got a real political education.
2
Ways and Means is the engine room of democracy. Taxes,
trade, growth, debt, the deficit, social security -- whatever the
issue, Ways and Means is where the work gets done. This is where
we forge consensus from the clashing of different views.
In this room sit the men and women whose decisions shape our
nation -- who match national will and national resources. I've
always maintained the deepest respect for the work you do -- and
the way you do it.
What I learned as a member of Ways and Means has been
invaluable. What I remember most about my time here is the
collegiality. The sleeves-up atmosphere. The open and honest
exchange of views. But above all, the readiness on both sides of
the aisle to resolve honest differences in a spirit of good will
-- for the good of this nation.
That's the spirit that upholds the finest tradition in the
long history of this committee -- and it's the spirit that's
going to see us through the tough work ahead.
It's a pleasure to be with you tonight -- to be among
friends -- to share in this celebration. I will always be
honored to call myself an alumnus of Ways and Means.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 24, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH: CHRISS WINSTON In
FROM:
DANIEL McGROARTY And
SUBJECT: WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
I. SUMMARY
This evening at 6:30, you will attend the Bicentennial Dinner for
the House Ways and Means Committee, at the Capitol. After short
remarks by Congressman Archer and Speaker Foley, you will make
brief remarks. You will be introduced by Cokie Roberts, and
followed at the dias by Chairman Rostenkowski.
II. DISCUSSION
These remarks focus on the crucial work done on Ways and Means,
from the perspective of your own service on the Committee.
McGroarty/Martin
July 24, 1989
11:00 am
[WAYS]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: WAYS AND MEANS BICENTENNIAL DINNER
THE CAPITOL
JULY 24, 1989
6:30 P.M.
Thank you, Cokie. I am delighted to be here this evening to
celebrate the 200th anniversary of the oldest committee in the
history of Congress, with so many Ways and Means members, past
and present.
I would be remiss if I didn't salute a few special friends
here tonight. Speaker Tom Foley and Majority Leader Dick
Gephart; Republican Leader Bob Michel; my good friend and
fellow Texan Bill Archer, and my Chairman from my time on the
Committee, Wilbur Mills.
Finally, my dear friend -- ever since we served on this
Committee together -- the Chairman, Dan Rostenkowski, who told me
last December in his inimitable fashion that I would be here
tonight. He told me that same day that I was the eighth member
of Ways and Means to become President in its two hundred years.
Two hundred years is a long time -- a proud tradition for
those of us who have had the honor to serve on Ways and Means.
They say the only two things in life that you can count on are
2
death and taxes. That means until God says your time is up --
your fate's in the hands of Ways and Means.
I began my career in Washington at this end of Pennsylvania
Avenue, on this Committee. I took my seat down at the end of the
table, and got a real political education.
Ways and Means is the engine room of democracy. Taxes,
trade, growth, debt, the deficit, social security -- whatever the
issue, Ways and Means is where the work gets done. This is where
we forge consensus from the clashing of different views.
In this room sit the men and women whose decisions shape our
nation -- who match national will and national resources. I've
always maintained the deepest respect for the work you do -- and
the way you do it.
What I learned as a member of Ways and Means has been
invaluable. What I remember most about my time here is the
collegiality. The sleeves-up atmosphere. The open and honest
exchange of views. But above all, the readiness on both sides of
the aisle to resolve honest differences in a spirit of good will
-- for the good of this nation.
3
That's the spirit that upholds the finest tradition in the
long history of this committee -- and it's the spirit that's
going to see us through the tough work ahead.
It's a pleasure to be with you tonight -- to be among
friends -- to share in this celebration. I will always be
honored to call myself an alumnus of Ways and Means.
# # #