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Originally Processed With FOIA(s): FOIA Number: S S FOIA MARKER This is not a textual record. This is used as an administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential Library Staff. Record Group/Collection: George H.W. Bush Presidential Records Collection/Office of Origin: Speechwriting, White House Office of Series: Speech File Draft Files Subseries: Chron File, 1989-1993 OA/ID Number: 13631 Folder ID Number: 13631-007 Folder Title: National Medals of the Arts 7/22/92 [OA 5810] Stack: Row: Section: Shelf: Position: G 26 18 3 4 2 of George Bush, 1992 Administration of George Bush, 1992 / July 22 1301 Brien, chairman, New Q. Are there any others you would like cause of their vision, today we celebrate the to put to rest? sheer and priceless pleasure of being Amer- The President. Yes, like I'm feeling good; ican. I am. Put to rest the health rumors. It is For some, being American means being weird. Maybe this is the normal procedure born into a certain regional tradition with the orters Prior to a every 4 years, but I don't remember it quite talent to preserve that legacy and carry it to on such funny things like whether I'm in a wider audience. Earl Scruggs brought the good health or not. Charles' associate asked fast and furious banjo-pickin' licks of his me the question, and I thought she was criti- bluegrass revolution from Flint Hill, North E. cizing the amount of food I was eating going Carolina, to Carnegie Hall. Down the road through the barbecue line. She said to me, S the Vice President's in Nashville, for over a half a century, a "What about your health?" I said, "Well, I'm hese days? sprightly cracker-barrel philosopher named not eating too much," or something. It it's very certain. I'm turned out it was the rumors. Minnie Pearl has been dispensing down- uestions here because home wisdom and a whole lot of down-deep Q. We don't make them up, we just pass of work to do. I hope them on. [Laughter] laughter. Jazz pianist Billy Taylor's music, in- Charles [Charles cluding Jazzmobile Outreach, "makes a joyful Network], but we're Note: The President spoke at 11:12 a.m. in noise" and gives a special streetwise swing more questions now. the Cabinet Room at the White House. to this most American form of expression. tary Baker? For some, being American means striving of crazy rumors float- to brand the bold spirit of this land onto work e? But I'm not going that is universal and timeless. American-born Remarks at the Presentation and -trained Marilyn Horne not only sings stop the rumors, sir? Ceremony for the National Medal of with the passion and precision that embody say anything about it. the Arts opera at its grandest, but she also introduced July 22, 1992 composers such as Handel to audiences here ink these rumors are at home. By elevating American choral music Welcome, everybody. Sorry for holding to the highest levels of excellence, the sweep you up for a few minutes here. Welcome to of Robert Shaw's work has proclaimed the -you guys get in that love. And keep work- the White House. May I salute Dr. Radice. majesty of God throughout this Nation. ou get good sources, I don't see Lamar. He was to be here, Lamar For some, being American means reaching some that don't look Alexander, our Secretary of Education. I from their roots to touch the Nation on a very good. think I just left him, and he'll be along. Dr. larger-than-life canvas. Robert Wise brings they, Mr. President? Lynne Cheney, Members of the Congress, the perspective of his Indiana childhood to ce is you guys writing. and so many distinguished guests, welcome. the crafting of movies of imagination and hu- all these rumors are Barbara and I are both delighted to be manity, from "The Sound of Music to "West here and proud to be part of an America Side Story." And with the courage and sheer which values arts as well as business or power of his fierce talent, Mississippi's James n't know, Charles, I science or politics. President Kennedy ex- Earl Jones has stamped his purely American pretty good, though, the press corps, ev- pressed so well the importance of this ideal mark on classical roles and created new char- when he said, "Roosevelt and Lincoln under- acters who explore a man's quest for dignity. er, to a race around r] You'll maybe run stood that the life of the arts is very close I might say on a very personal note, when to the center of a nation's purpose and is I saw "The Hunt for Red October" and "Pa- nger crowd-sorry, a test of the quality of a nation's civilization." triot Games," I enjoyed his performance as on you cameramen. Well, we're here today to pay tribute to Director of the CIA-[laughter]-a role that ghter] some extraordinary men and women, men I played briefly myself. [Laughter] azy time on rumors. and women of genius and passion who enrich For some, being American means flourish- bara's sick; Marilyn that quality of life in our America. "Made ing this country's impatient exuberance in eeling well. I don't in U.S.A." has a new meaning today, for al- it there. But I don't the face of dusty tradition. Out of Robert most all these artists were born in small 1 or encouraging the Venturi's genius sprang the post-modern American towns, trained here in their own movement of architecture, forever altering country, then turned this uniquely American the way we see the cities around us. The ch. vision to a wide range of artistic fields. Be- writings of Denise Scott Brown, his wife and 1302 July 22 / Administration of George Bush, 199 partner, have stimulated the American human spirit, our successes are hollow an awareness of architecture as public art. our lives lacking. For some, being American means passion- President John Adams wrote this: "I mu ate stewards of the arts, committed to bring- study politics that my sons may have liber+ ing theater, painting, dance, music, and so to study mathematics and philosophy i much more to all kinds of Americans across order to give their children a right to stud this country. Millions have been stirred and painting, poetry, and music." That is why W moved by cultural programming like "Omni- celebrate these men and women today. bus," part of the video trails blazed by Robert Saudek, now caretaker to television's legacy Congratulations to all. Thank you for you: at the Museum of Broadcasting. contributions to the great tapestry that is American art. Now I'd like to ask Dr. Radice Two special companies have set the stand- ard in corporate philanthropy. They give to assist me in presenting these medals, il hundreds of grants and millions of dollars, you would. but most importantly, they give the example of believing in the importance of arts for Note: The President spoke at 12:04 p.m. in the East Room at the White House. In his America. The AT&T Foundation supports innovative projects all across the country, remarks, he referred to Anne Radice, Acting ranging from tours by dance companies and Chairman, National Endowment for the Arts, ethnic artists to original drama and music and Lynne V. Cheney, Chairman, National composition. The Lila Wallace-Reader's Di- Endowment for the Humanities. gest Fund aids American performing, visual, and literary artists who have a real dream, and it also cares for the future, generously funding arts education. Remarks at an Antidrug Rally in I want to take a moment for a special sa- Arlington, Virginia lute to someone whose work has intrigued July 22, 1992 me since I first met him here at the White House a couple of years ago. When you talk Reverend, thank you, sir. It is most fitting about being American, nothing can capture that a ceremony like this, where we celebrate the richness and depth of that experience what a community has done, open its meet- quite like native American art. Not only is ing with prayer. I'm proud to be here. My it our oldest and proudest tradition, but in dear friend the Congressman from here, native American society, art and life are Frank Wolf, he and I came over together, strands of the same cloth. The ancient pat- and he was ecstatic in trying to give me the terns on blankets and the dances and the col- heartbeat of this community and tell me what ors: Art is an integral and time-honored part you all have achieved. of daily life. So I'm very proud to salute Allan I've read about it. I've seen stories from Houser. His hands transform bronze and stone to capture the true meaning of this time to time, but there's nothing like being country's unbroken spirit. His sculptures elo- on the scene to get a real feel. All I will say quently echo this Nation's heritage of proud is that we have got to find various ways with Apache chiefs and speak for the essential hu- which to win the battle against drugs, and manity of all Americans. this community is setting an example really I firmly believe that our number one goal for the rest of the Nation. for the 21st century must be education. The So what I wanted to do here today was high-tech challenges of this global market- simply turn it over to you all and hear what place we're living in will be absolutely over- you've done. This morning I met at the whelming. But as we equip our kids with the White House with some business leaders, skills to compete, we also must help them and they're working in the business commu- develop as complete human beings. One way nity to make the business places free of to do this is through the arts. For without drugs, workplaces drug-free. And they're knowledge of the beauty and depth of the making progress. PRESENTATION OF NAT'L MEDALS OF THE ARTS \ EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 1992 \ 12:00 P.M. THANK YOU. DR. [ANNE-IMELDA] RADICE [RAH-DEE- CHAY]. SECRETARY ALEXANDER. DR. [LYNN] CHENEY. MEMBERS OF CONGRESS AND OTHER DISTINGUISHED GUESTS. BARBARA AND I ARE PROUD TO BE HERE -- PROUD TO BE PART OF AN AMERICA WHICH VALUES ARTS AS WELL AS BUSINESS OR SCIENCE OR POLITICS. PRESIDENT KENNEDY EXPRESSED so WELL THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS IDEAL WHEN HE SAID: - 2 - "ROOSEVELT AND LINCOLN UNDERSTOOD THAT THE LIFE OF THE ARTS...IS VERY CLOSE TO THE CENTER OF A NATION'S PURPOSE; AND IS A TEST OF THE QUALITY OF A NATION'S CIVILIZATION." WELL, WE'RE HERE TO PAY TRIBUTE TO SOME EXTRAORDINARY MEN AND WOMEN -- MEN AND WOMEN OF GENIUS AND PASSION WHO ENRICH THAT QUALITY OF LIFE IN OUR AMERICA. - 3 - "MADE IN THE USA" HAS NEW MEANING TODAY -- FOR ALMOST ALL THESE ARTISTS WERE BORN IN SMALL AMERICAN TOWNS; TRAINED HERE IN THEIR OWN COUNTRY; THEN TURNED THEIR UNIQUELY AMERICAN VISION TO A WIDE RANGE OF ARTISTIC FIELDS. BECAUSE OF THEIR VISION, TODAY WE CELEBRATE THE "SHEER AND PRICELESS PLEASURE" OF BEING AMERICAN. - 4 - FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS BEING BORN INTO A CERTAIN REGIONAL TRADITION WITH THE TALENT TO PRESERVE THAT LEGACY, AND CARRY IT TO A-WIDER AUDIENCE. EARL SCRUGGS BROUGHT THE FAST AND FURIOUS BANJO-PICKIN' "LICKS" OF HIS "BLUEGRASS REVOLUTION" FROM FLINT HILL, NC TO CARNEGIE HALL. DOWN THE ROAD IN NASHVILLE, FOR OVER HALF A CENTURY A SPRIGHTLY CRACKER-BARREL PHILOSOPHER NAMED MINNIE PEARL HAS BEEN DISPENSING DOWN-HOME WISDOM AND A WHOLE LOT OF DOWN-DEEP LAUGHTER. - 5 - JAZZ PIANIST BILLY TAYLOR'S MUSIC, INCLUDING JAZZMOBILE OUTREACH, "MAKES A JOYFUL NOISE" AND GIVES A SPECIAL STREETWISE SWING TO THIS MOST AMERICAN FORM OF EXPRESSION. - FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS STRIVING To BRAND THE BOLD SPIRIT OF THIS LAND ONTO WORK THAT IS UNIVERSAL AND TIMELESS. - 6 - AMERICAN-BORN AND TRAINED MARILYN HORNE NOT ONLY SINGS WITH THE PASSION AND PRECISION THAT EMBODY OPERA AT ITS GRANDEST -- BUT SHE ALSO INTRODUCED COMPOSERS SUCH AS HANDEL TO AUDIENCES HERE AT HOME. By ELEVATING AMERICAN CHORAL MUSICAL TO THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF EXCELLENCE, THE SWEEP OF ROBERT SHAW'S WORK HAS PROCLAIMED THE MAJESTY OF GOD THROUGHOUT THIS NATION. - 7 - FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS REACHING FROM THEIR ROOTS TO TOUCH THE NATION ON A LARGER-THAN-LIFE CANVAS. ROBERT WISE BRINGS THE PERSPECTIVE OF HIS INDIANA CHILDHOOD TO THE CRAFTING OF MOVIES OF IMAGINATION AND HUMANITY FROM "THE SOUND OF MUSIC" TO "WEST SIDE STORY." AND WITH THE COURAGE AND SHEER POWER OF HIS FIERCE TALENT, MISSISSIPPI'S JAMES EARL JONES HAS STAMPED HIS PURELY AMERICAN MARK ON CLASSICAL ROLES AND CREATED NEW CHARACTERS WHO EXPLORE MAN'S QUEST FOR DIGNITY. - 8 - [ON A PERSONAL NOTE, WHEN I SAW "HUNT FOR RED OCTOBER" AND "PATRIOT GAMES", I ENJOYED HIS PERFORMANCES AS DIRECTOR OF THE CIA -- A ROLE I PLAYED MYSELF.] FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS FLOURISHING THIS COUNTRY'S IMPATIENT EXUBERANCE IN THE FACE OF DUSTY TRADITION. OUT OF ROBERT VENTURI'S GENIUS SPRANG THE POST-MODERN MOVEMENT OF ARCHITECTURE: FOREVER ALTERING THE WAY WE SEE THE CITIES AROUND US. - 9 - AND THE WRITINGS OF DENISE SCOTT BROWN, HIS WIFE AND PARTNER, HAVE STIMULATED THE AMERICAN AWARENESS OF ARCHITECTURE AS PUBLIC ART. FOR SOME, BEING AMERICAN MEANS BEING PASSIONATE STEWARDS OF THE ARTS, COMMITTED TO BRINGING THEATER, PAINTING, DANCE, MUSIC AND so MUCH MORE TO ALL KINDS OF AMERICANS ACROSS THIS COUNTRY. - 10 - MILLIONS HAVE BEEN STIRRED AND MOVED BY CULTURAL PROGRAMMING LIKE "OMNIBUS," PART OF THE VIDEO TRAILS BLAZED BY ROBERT SAUDEK, NOW CARETAKER TO TELEVISION'S LEGACY AT THE MUSEUM OF BROADCASTING. Two SPECIAL COMPANIES HAVE SET THE STANDARD IN CORPORATE PHILANTHROPY. THEY GIVE HUNDREDS OF GRANTS AND MILLIONS OF DOLLARS BUT, MOST IMPORTANTLY, THEY GIVE THE EXAMPLE OF BELIEVING IN THE IMPORTANCE OF ARTS FOR AMERICA. - 11 - THE AT&T FOUNDATION SUPPORTS INNOVATIVE PROJECTS ACROSS THIS NATION, RANGING FROM TOURS BY DANCE COMPANIES AND ETHNIC ARTISTS TO ORIGINAL DRAMA AND MUSIC COMPOSITION. THE LILA WALLACE-READER'S DIGEST FUND AIDS AMERICAN PERFORMING, VISUAL AND LITERARY ARTISTS WHO HAVE A DREAM -- AND IT ALSO CARES FOR THE FUTURE, GENEROUSLY FUNDING ARTS EDUCATION. - 12 - AND I WANT TO TAKE A MOMENT FOR A SPECIAL SALUTE TO SOMEONE WHOSE WORK HAS INTRIGUED ME SINCE I FIRST MET HIM HERE AT THE WHITE HOUSE A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO. WHEN YOU TALK ABOUT BEING AMERICAN, NOTHING CAN CAPTURE THE RICHNESS AND DEPTH OF THAT EXPERIENCE QUITE LIKE NATIVE AMERICAN ART. NOT ONLY IS IT OUR OLDEST AND PROUDEST TRADITION, BUT IN NATIVE AMERICAN SOCIETY ART AND LIFE ARE STRANDS OF THE SAME CLOTH. - 13 - THE ANCIENT PATTERNS ON BLANKETS, THE DANCES, THE COLORS -- ART IS AN INTEGRAL AND TIME-HONORED PART OF DAILY LIFE. So I'M VERY HONORED TO SALUTE ALLAN HOUSER. HIS HANDS TRANSFORM BRONZE AND STONE TO CAPTURE THE TRUE MEANING OF THIS COUNTRY'S UNBROKEN SPIRIT. HIS SCULPTURES ELOQUENTLY ECHO THIS NATION'S HERITAGE OF PROUD APACHE CHIEFS -- AND SPEAK FOR THE ESSENTIAL HUMANITY OF ALL AMERICANS. - 14 - I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL FOR THE 21st CENTURY MUST BE EDUCATION. THE HIGH-TECH CHALLENGES OF A GLOBAL MARKETPLACE WILL BE OVERWHELMING. BUT AS WE EQUIP OUR KIDS WITH THE SKILLS TO COMPETE, WE MUST ALSO HELP THEM DEVELOP AS COMPLETE HUMAN BEINGS -- AND ONE WAY TO DO THIS IS THROUGH THE ARTS. FOR WITHOUT KNOWLEDGE OF THE BEAUTY AND DEPTH OF THE HUMAN SPIRIT -- OUR SUCCESSES ARE HOLLOW, AND OUR LIVES LACKING. = 15 - As PRESIDENT JOHN ADAMS WROTE: "I MUST STUDY POLITICS THAT MY SONS MAY HAVE LIBERTY TO STUDY MATHEMATICS AND PHILOSOPHY IN ORDER TO GIVE THEIR CHILDREN A RIGHT TO STUDY PAINTING, POETRY, MUSIC. " THAT IS WHY WE CELEBRATE THESE MEN AND WOMEN TODAY. CONGRATULATIONS -- AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE GREAT TAPESTRY THAT IS AMERICAN ART. Now, I'D LIKE TO ASK DR. RADICE [RAH-DEE-CHAY] TO ASSIST ME IN PRESENTING THESE MEDALS. # # # # PRESENTATION OF NAT'L MEDALS OF THE ARTS \ EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 1992 \ 12:00 P.M. BARBARA AND I ARE PROUD TO BE HERE -- PROUD TO BE PART OF AN AMERICA WHICH VALUES ARTS AS WELL AS BUSINESS OR SCIENCE OR POLITICS. PRESIDENT KENNEDY EXPRESSED so WELL THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS IDEAL WHEN HE SAID: "ROOSEVELT AND LINCOLN UNDERSTOOD THAT THE LIFE OF THE ARTS...IS VERY CLOSE TO THE CENTER OF A NATION'S PURPOSE; AND IS A TEST OF THE QUALITY OF A NATION'S CIVILIZATION." - 2 - WELL, WE'RE HERE TO PAY TRIBUTE TO SOME EXTRAORDINARY MEN AND WOMEN -- MEN AND WOMEN OF GENIUS AND PASSION WHO ENRICH THAT QUALITY OF LIFE IN OUR AMERICA. "MADE IN THE USA" HAS NEW MEANING TODAY -- FOR ALMOST ALL THESE ARTISTS WERE BORN IN SMALL AMERICAN TOWNS; TRAINED HERE IN THEIR OWN COUNTRY; THEN TURNED THEIR UNIQUELY AMERICAN VISION TO A WIDE RANGE OF ARTISTIC FIELDS. BECAUSE OF THEIR VISION, TODAY WE CELEBRATE THE "SHEER AND PRICELESS PLEASURE" OF BEING AMERICAN. ? - 3 - FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS BEING BORN INTO A CERTAIN REGIONAL TRADITION WITH THE TALENT TO PRESERVE THAT LEGACY, AND CARRY IT TO A WIDER AUDIENCE. EARL SCRUGGS BROUGHT THE FAST AND FURIOUS BANJO-PICKIN' "LICKS" OF HIS "BLUEGRASS REVOLUTION" FROM FLINT HILL, NC TO CARNEGIE HALL. DOWN THE ROAD IN NASHVILLE, FOR OVER HALF A CENTURY A SPRIGHTLY CRACKER-BARREL PHILOSOPHER NAMED MINNIE PEARL HAS BEEN DISPENSING DOWN-HOME WISDOM AND A WHOLE LOT OF DOWN-DEEP LAUGHTER. - 4 - JAZZ PIANIST BILLY TAYLOR'S MUSIC, INCLUDING JAZZMOBILE OUTREACH, "MAKES A JOYFUL NOISE" AND GIVES A SPECIAL STREETWISE SWING TO THIS MOST AMERICAN FORM OF EXPRESSION. FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS STRIVING TO BRAND THE BOLD SPIRIT OF THIS LAND ONTO WORK THAT IS UNIVERSAL AND TIMELESS. - 5 - AMERICAN-BORN AND TRAINED MARILYN HORNE NOT ONLY SINGS WITH THE PASSION AND PRECISION THAT EMBODY OPERA AT ITS GRANDEST -- BUT SHE ALSO INTRODUCED COMPOSERS SUCH AS HANDEL TO AUDIENCES HERE AT HOME. BY ELEVATING AMERICAN CHORAL MUSICAL TO THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF EXCELLENCE, THE SWEEP OF ROBERT SHAW'S WORK HAS PROCLAIMED THE MAJESTY OF GOD THROUGHOUT THIS NATION. - 6 - FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS REACHING FROM THEIR ROOTS TO TOUCH THE NATION ON A LARGER-THAN-LIFE CANVAS. WITH THE COURAGE AND SHEER POWER OF HIS FIERCE TALENT, MISSISSIPPI'S JAMES EARL JONES HAS STAMPED HIS PURELY AMERICAN MARK ON CLASSICAL ROLES AND CREATED NEW CHARACTERS WHO EXPLORE MAN'S QUEST FOR DIGNITY. ROBERT WISE BRINGS THE PERSPECTIVE OF HIS INDIANA CHILDHOOD TO THE CRAFTING OF MOVIES OF IMAGINATION AND HUMANITY FROM "THE SOUND OF MUSIC" TO "WEST SIDE STORY." - 7 - FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS FLOURISHING THIS COUNTRY'S IMPATIENT EXUBERANCE IN THE FACE OF DUSTY TRADITION. OUT OF ROBERT VENTURI'S GENIUS SPRANG THE POST-MODERN MOVEMENT OF ARCHITECTURE: FOREVER ALTERING THE WAY WE SEE THE CITIES AROUND US. AND THE WRITINGS OF DENISE SCOTT BROWN, HIS WIFE AND PARTNER, HAVE STIMULATED THE AMERICAN AWARENESS OF ARCHITECTURE AS PUBLIC ART. - 8 - FOR SOME, BEING AMERICAN MEANS BEING PASSIONATE STEWARDS OF THE ARTS, COMMITTED TO BRINGING THEATER, PAINTING, DANCE, MUSIC AND so MUCH MORE TO ALL KINDS OF AMERICANS ACROSS THIS COUNTRY. MILLIONS HAVE BEEN STIRRED AND MOVED BY CULTURAL PROGRAMMING LIKE "OMNIBUS," PART OF THE VIDEO TRAILS BLAZED BY ROBERT SAUDEK, NOW CARETAKER TO TELEVISION'S LEGACY AT THE MUSEUM OF BROADCASTING. - 9 - Two SPECIAL COMPANIES HAVE SET THE STANDARD IN CORPORATE PHILANTHROPY. THEY GIVE HUNDREDS OF GRANTS AND MILLIONS OF DOLLARS BUT, MOST IMPORTANTLY, THEY GIVE THE EXAMPLE OF BELIEVING IN THE IMPORTANCE OF ARTS FOR AMERICA. THE AT&T FOUNDATION SUP-PORTS INNOVATIVE PROJECTS ACROSS THIS NATION, RANGING FROM TOURS BY DANCE COMPANIES AND ETHNIC ARTISTS TO ORIGINAL DRAMA AND MUSIC COMPOSITION. - 10 - THE LILA WALLACE-READER'S DIGEST FUND AIDS AMERICAN PERFORMING, VISUAL AND LITERARY ARTISTS WHO HAVE A DREAM -- AND IT ALSO CARES FOR THE FUTURE, GENEROUSLY FUNDING ARTS EDUCATION. AND I WANT TO TAKE A MOMENT FOR A SPECIAL SALUTE TO SOMEONE WHOSE WORK HAS INTRIGUED ME SINCE I FIRST MET HIM HERE AT THE WHITE HOUSE A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO. - 11 - WHEN YOU TALK ABOUT BEING AMERICAN, NOTHING CAN CAPTURE THE RICHNESS AND DEPTH OF THAT EXPERIENCE QUITE LIKE NATIVE AMERICAN ART. NOT ONLY IS IT OUR OLDEST AND PROUDEST TRADITION, BUT IN NATIVE AMERICAN SOCIETY ART AND LIFE ARE STRANDS OF THE SAME CLOTH. THE ANCIENT PATTERNS ON BLANKETS, THE DANCES, THE COLORS -- ART IS AN INTEGRAL AND TIME-HONORED PART OF DAILY LIFE. So I'M VERY HONORED TO SALUTE ALLAN HOUSER. - 12 - HIS HANDS TRANSFORM BRONZE AND STONE TO CAPTURE THE TRUE MEANING OF THIS COUNTRY'S UNBROKEN SPIRIT. HIS SCULPTURES ELOQUENTLY ECHO THIS NATION'S HERITAGE OF PROUD APACHE CHIEFS -- AND SPEAK FOR THE ESSENTIAL HUMANITY OF ALL AMERICANS. I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL FOR THE 21st CENTURY MUST BE EDUCATION. THE HIGH-TECH CHALLENGES OF A GLOBAL MARKETPLACE WILL BE OVERWHELMING. - 13 - BUT AS WE EQUIP OUR KIDS WITH THE SKILLS TO COMPETE, WE MUST ALSO HELP THEM DEVELOP AS COMPLETE HUMAN BEINGS -- AND ONE WAY TO DO THIS IS THROUGH THE ARTS. FOR WITHOUT KNOWLEDGE OF THE BEAUTY AND DEPTH OF THE HUMAN SPIRIT --OUR SUCCESSES ARE HOLLOW, AND OUR LIVES LACKING. As PRESIDENT JOHN ADAMS WROTE: "I MUST STUDY POLITICS ... THAT MY SONS MAY HAVE LIBERTY TO STUDY MATHEMATICS AND PHILOSOPHY ... IN ORDER TO GIVE THEIR CHILDREN A RIGHT TO STUDY PAINTING, POETRY, MUSIC." THAT IS WHY WE CELEBRATE THESE MEN AND WOMEN TODAY. - 14 - CONGRATULATIONS -- AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE GREAT TAPESTRY THAT IS AMERICAN ART. Now, I'D LIKE TO ASK ANN RADICE TO ASSIST ME IN PRESENTING THESE MEDALS. # # # # PRESENTATION OF NAT'L MEDALS OF THE ARTS \ EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 1992 \ 12:00 P.M. BARBARA AND I ARE PROUD TO BE HERE -- PROUD TO BE PART OF AN AMERICA WHICH VALUES ARTS AS WELL AS BUSINESS OR SCIENCE OR POLITICS. PRESIDENT KENNEDY EXPRESSED so WELL THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS IDEAL WHEN HE SAID: "ROOSEVELT AND LINCOLN UNDERSTOOD THAT THE LIFE OF THE ARTS...IS VERY CLOSE TO THE CENTER OF A NATION'S PURPOSE; AND IS A TEST OF THE QUALITY OF A NATION'S CIVILIZATION." - 2 - WELL, WE'RE HERE TO PAY TRIBUTE TO SOME EXTRAORDINARY MEN AND WOMEN -- MEN AND WOMEN OF GENIUS AND PASSION WHO ENRICH THAT QUALITY OF LIFE IN OUR AMERICA. "MADE IN THE USA" HAS NEW MEANING TODAY -- FOR ALMOST ALL THESE ARTISTS WERE BORN IN SMALL AMERICAN TOWNS; TRAINED HERE IN THEIR OWN COUNTRY; THEN TURNED THEIR UNIQUELY AMERICAN VISION TO A WIDE RANGE OF ARTISTIC FIELDS. BECAUSE OF THEIR VISION, TODAY WE CELEBRATE THE "SHEER AND PRICELESS PLEASURE" OF BEING AMERICAN. 3 - 3 - FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS BEING BORN INTO A CERTAIN REGIONAL TRADITION WITH THE TALENT TO PRESERVE THAT LEGACY, AND CARRY IT TO A WIDER AUDIENCE. EARL SCRUGGS BROUGHT THE FAST AND FURIOUS BANJO-PICKIN "LICKS" OF HIS "BLUEGRASS REVOLUTION" FROM FLINT HILL, NC TO CARNEGIE HALL. DOWN THE ROAD IN NASHVILLE, FOR OVER HALF A CENTURY A SPRIGHTLY CRACKER-BARREL PHILOSOPHER NAMED MINNIE PEARL HAS BEEN DISPENSING DOWN-HOME WISDOM AND A WHOLE LOT OF DOWN-DEEP LAUGHTER. - 4 - JAZZ PIANIST BILLY TAYLOR'S MUSIC, INCLUDING JAZZMOBILE OUTREACH, "MAKES A JOYFUL NOISE" AND GIVES A SPECIAL STREETWISE SWING TO THIS MOST AMERICAN FORM OF EXPRESSION. FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS STRIVING TO BRAND THE BOLD SPIRIT OF THIS LAND ONTO WORK THAT IS UNIVERSAL AND TIMELESS. - 5 - AMERICAN-BORN AND TRAINED MARILYN HORNE NOT ONLY SINGS WITH THE PASSION AND PRECISION THAT EMBODY OPERA AT ITS GRANDEST -- BUT SHE ALSO INTRODUCED COMPOSERS SUCH AS HANDEL TO AUDIENCES HERE AT HOME. BY ELEVATING AMERICAN CHORAL MUSICAL TO THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF EXCELLENCE, THE SWEEP OF ROBERT SHAW'S WORK HAS PROCLAIMED THE MAJESTY OF GOD THROUGHOUT THIS NATION. - 6 - FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS REACHING FROM THEIR ROOTS TO TOUCH THE NATION ON A LARGER-THAN-LIFE CANVAS. WITH THE COURAGE AND SHEER POWER OF HIS FIERCE TALENT, MISSISSIPPI'S JAMES EARL JONES HAS STAMPED HIS PURELY AMERICAN MARK ON CLASSICAL ROLES AND CREATED NEW CHARACTERS WHO EXPLORE MAN'S QUEST FOR DIGNITY. ROBERT WISE BRINGS THE PERSPECTIVE OF HIS INDIANA CHILDHOOD TO THE CRAFTING OF MOVIES OF IMAGINATION AND HUMANITY FROM "THE SOUND OF MUSIC" TO "WEST SIDE STORY." - 7 - FOR SOME, "BEING AMERICAN" MEANS FLOURISHING THIS COUNTRY'S IMPATIENT EXUBERANCE IN THE FACE OF DUSTY TRADITION. OUT OF ROBERT VENTURI'S GENIUS SPRANG THE POST-MODERN MOVEMENT OF ARCHITECTURE: FOREVER ALTERING THE WAY WE SEE THE CITIES AROUND US. AND THE WRITINGS OF DENISE SCOTT BROWN, HIS WIFE AND PARTNER, HAVE STIMULATED THE AMERICAN AWARENESS OF ARCHITECTURE AS PUBLIC ART. - 8 - FOR SOME, BEING AMERICAN MEANS BEING PASSIONATE STEWARDS OF THE ARTS, COMMITTED TO BRINGING THEATER, PAINTING, DANCE, MUSIC AND so MUCH MORE TO ALL KINDS OF AMERICANS ACROSS THIS COUNTRY. MILLIONS HAVE BEEN STIRRED AND MOVED BY CULTURAL PROGRAMMING LIKE "OMNIBUS," PART OF THE VIDEO TRAILS BLAZED BY ROBERT SAUDEK, NOW CARETAKER TO TELEVISION'S LEGACY AT THE MUSEUM OF BROADCASTING. - 9 . Two SPECIAL COMPANIES HAVE SET THE STANDARD IN CORPORATE PHILANTHROPY. THEY GIVE HUNDREDS OF GRANTS AND MILLIONS OF DOLLARS BUT, MOST IMPORTANTLY, THEY GIVE THE EXAMPLE OF BELIEVING IN THE IMPORTANCE OF ARTS FOR AMERICA. THE AT&T FOUNDATION SUP-PORTS INNOVATIVE PROJECTS ACROSS THIS NATION, RANGING FROM TOURS BY DANCE COMPANIES AND ETHNIC ARTISTS TO ORIGINAL DRAMA AND MUSIC COMPOSITION. - 10 - THE LILA WALLACE-READER'S DIGEST FUND AIDS AMERICAN PERFORMING, VISUAL AND LITERARY ARTISTS WHO HAVE A DREAM -- AND IT ALSO CARES FOR THE FUTURE, GENEROUSLY FUNDING ARTS EDUCATION. AND I WANT TO TAKE A MOMENT FOR A SPECIAL SALUTE TO SOMEONE WHOSE WORK HAS INTRIGUED ME SINCE I FIRST MET HIM HERE AT THE WHITE HOUSE A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO. - 11 - WHEN YOU TALK ABOUT BEING AMERICAN, NOTHING CAN CAPTURE THE RICHNESS AND DEPTH OF THAT EXPERIENCE QUITE LIKE NATIVE AMERICAN ART. NOT ONLY IS IT OUR OLDEST AND PROUDEST TRADITION, BUT IN NATIVE AMERICAN SOCIETY ART AND LIFE ARE STRANDS OF THE SAME CLOTH. THE ANCIENT PATTERNS ON BLANKETS, THE DANCES, THE COLORS -- ART IS AN INTEGRAL AND TIME-HONORED PART OF DAILY LIFE. So I'M VERY HONORED TO SALUTE ALLAN HOUSER. - 12 - HIS HANDS TRANSFORM BRONZE AND STONE TO CAPTURE THE TRUE MEANING OF THIS COUNTRY'S UNBROKEN SPIRIT. HIS SCULPTURES ELOQUENTLY ECHO THIS NATION'S HERITAGE OF PROUD APACHE CHIEFS -- AND SPEAK FOR THE ESSENTIAL HUMANITY OF ALL AMERICANS. I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL FOR THE 21st CENTURY MUST BE EDUCATION. THE HIGH-TECH CHALLENGES OF A GLOBAL MARKETPLACE WILL BE OVERWHELMING. - 13 - BUT AS WE EQUIP OUR KIDS WITH THE SKILLS TO COMPETE, WE MUST ALSO HELP THEM DEVELOP AS COMPLETE HUMAN BEINGS -- AND ONE WAY TO DO THIS IS THROUGH THE ARTS. FOR WITHOUT KNOWLEDGE OF THE BEAUTY AND DEPTH OF THE HUMAN SPIRIT --OUR SUCCESSES ARE HOLLOW, AND OUR LIVES LACKING. As PRESIDENT JOHN ADAMS WROTE: "I MUST STUDY POLITICS ... THAT MY SONS MAY HAVE LIBERTY TO STUDY MATHEMATICS AND PHILOSOPHY ... IN ORDER TO GIVE THEIR CHILDREN A RIGHT TO STUDY PAINTING, POETRY, MUSIC." THAT IS WHY WE CELEBRATE THESE MEN AND WOMEN TODAY. - 14 - - CONGRATULATIONS -- AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE GREAT TAPESTRY THAT IS AMERICAN ART. Now, I'D LIKE TO ASK ANN RADICE TO ASSIST ME IN PRESENTING THESE MEDALS. # # # # THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN 7/20/92 THE WHITE HOUSE washington July 17, 1992 MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT 2 JUL 17 OK/ P3: 49 THROUGH: DAN McGROARTY Mucr CA7 FROM: BETH HINCHLIFFE SUBJECT: NATIONAL MEDAL OF THE ARTS LUNCHEON On Wednesday, July 22, at 11:45 a.m., you will address and participate in a ceremony to award the National Medal of the Arts. The event will take place in the East Room; afterwards, you will host a luncheon in the State Dining Room. The remarks (7 minutes, cards) praise each of the award winners as trailblazers who have found their own unique ways to bring the American spirit to their work. Monday-Andey J. (Hinchliffe/Gershowitz) July 15, 1992 10 a.m. MEDALS Draft One PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL MEDALS OF THE ARTS EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY JULY 22, 1992 Barbara and I are proud to be here -- proud to be part of an America which values arts as well as business or science or poli- tics. President Kennedy expressed so well the importance of this ideal when he said: "Roosevelt and Lincoln understood that the life of the arts is very close to the center of a nation's pur- pose; and is a test of the quality of a nation's civilization." Well, we're here to pay tribute to some extraordinary men and women -- men and women of genius and passion who enrich that quality of life in our America. "Made in the USA" has new meaning today -- for almost all these artists were born in small American towns; trained here in their own country; then turned their uniquely American vision to a wide range of artistic fields. Because of their vision, today we celebrate the "sheer and priceless pleasure" of being American. For some, "being American" means being born into a certain regional tradition with the talent to preserve that legacy, and carry it to a wider audience. Earl Scruggs brought the fast and furious banjo-pickin' "licks" of his "bluegrass revolution" from Flint Hill, NC to Carnegie Hall. Down the road in Nashville, for over half a century a sprightly cracker-barrel philosopher named Minnie Pearl has been dispensing down-home wisdom and a whole lot of down-deep laughter. Jazz pianist Billy Taylor's music, inclu- ding Jazzmobile Outreach, "makes a joyful noise" and gives a spe- 2 cial streetwise swing to this most American form of expression. For some, "being American" means striving to brand the bold spirit of this land onto work that is universal and timeless. American-born and trained Marilyn Horne not only sings with the passion and precision that embody opera at its grandest -- but she also introduced composers such as Handel to audiences here at home. By elevating American choral musical to the highest levels of excellence, the sweep of Robert Shaw's work has proclaimed the majesty of God throughout this nation. For some, "being American" means reaching from their roots to touch the nation on a larger-than-life canvas. With the courage and sheer power of his fierce talent, Mississippi's James Earl Jones has stamped his purely American mark on classical roles and created new characters who explore man's quest for dignity. Robert Wise brings the perspective of his Indiana childhood to the crafting of movies of imagination and humanity from "The Sound of Music" to "West Side Story." For some, "being American" means flourishing this country's impatient exuberance in the face of dusty tradition. Out of Rob- ert Venturi's genius sprang the Post-Modern movement of architec- ture: forever altering the way we see the cities around us. And the writings of Denise Scott Brown, his wife and partner, have stimulated the American awareness of architecture as public art. For some, being American means being passionate stewards of the arts, committed to bringing theater, painting, dance, music and so much more to all kinds of Americans across this country. 3 Millions have been stirred and moved by cultural programming like "Omnibus," part of the video trails blazed by Robert Saudek, now caretaker to television's legacy at the Museum of Broadcasting. Two special companies have set the standard in corporate philanthropy. They give hundreds of grants and millions of dollars but, most importantly, they give the example of believing in the importance of arts for America. The AT&T Foundation sup- ports innovative projects across this nation, ranging from tours by dance companies and ethnic artists to original drama and music composition. The Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund aids American performing, visual and literary artists who have a dream -- and it also cares for the future, generously funding arts education. And I want to take a moment for a special salute to someone whose work has intrigued me since I first met him here at the White House a couple of years ago. When you talk about being American, nothing can capture the richness and depth of that experience quite like Native American art. Not only is it our oldest and proudest tradition, but in Native American society art and life are strands of the same cloth. The ancient patterns on blankets, the dances, the colors -- art is an integral and time- honored part of daily life. So I'm very honored to salute Allan Houser. His hands transform bronze and stone to capture the true meaning of this country's unbroken spirit. His sculptures eloquently echo this nation's heritage of proud Apache chiefs -- and speak for the essential humanity of all Americans. I firmly believe that our number one goal for the 21st 4 century must be education. The high-tech challenges of a global marketplace will be overwhelming. But as we equip our kids with the skills to compete, we must also help them develop as complete human beings -- and one way to do this is through the arts. For without knowledge of the beauty and depth of the human spirit : our successes are hollow, and our lives lacking. As President John Adams wrote: "I must study politics that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music." 99 That is why we celebrate these men and women today. Congratulations -- and thank you for your contributions to the great tapestry that is American art. Now, I'd like to ask Ann Radice to assist me in presenting these medals. # # # # Document No. WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 7/17/92 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: --- PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL MEDAL OF THE ARTS LUNCHEON SUBJECT: WEDNESDAY, JULY 22 - 11:45 A.M. ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT HORNER SKINNER MCBRIDE SCOWCROFT MOORE DARMAN PETERSMEYER BRADY PORTER BROMLEY ROLLINS CALIO SMITH DEMAREST YEUTTER FITZWATER FINDLAY GRAY KAUFMAN HOLIDAY MCGROARTY FIRESTONE REMARKS: THE ATTACHED HAS BEEN FORWARDED TO THE PRESIDENT. RESPONSE: PHILLIP D. BRADY Assistant to the President and Staff Secretary Ext. 2702 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON 12 JUL 17 P3:49 July 17, 1992 MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT THROUGH: DAN McGROARTY Mur FROM: BETH HINCHLIFFE SUBJECT: NATIONAL MEDAL OF THE ARTS LUNCHEON On Wednesday, July 22, at 11:45 a.m., you will address and participate in a ceremony to award the National Medal of the Arts. The event will take place in the East Room; afterwards, you will host a luncheon in the State Dining Room. The remarks (7 minutes, cards) praise each of the award winners as trailblazers who have found their own unique ways to bring the American spirit to their work. (Hinchliffe/Gershowitz) July 15, 1992 10 a.m. MEDALS Draft One PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL MEDALS OF THE ARTS EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY JULY 22, 1992 Barbara and I are proud to be here -- proud to be part of an America which values arts as well as business or science or poli- tics. President Kennedy expressed so well the importance of this ideal when he said: "Roosevelt and Lincoln understood that the life of the arts. is very close to the center of a nation's pur- pose; and is a test of the quality of a nation's civilization." Well, we're here to pay tribute to some extraordinary men and women -- men and women of genius and passion who enrich that quality of life in our America. "Made in the USA" has new meaning today -- for almost all these artists were born in small American towns; trained here in their own country; then turned their uniquely American vision to a wide range of artistic fields. Because of their vision, today we celebrate the "sheer and priceless pleasure" of being American. For some, "being American" means being born into a certain regional tradition with the talent to preserve that legacy, and carry it to a wider audience. Earl Scruggs brought the fast and furious banjo-pickin' "licks" of his "bluegrass revolution" from Flint Hill, NC to Carnegie Hall. Down the road in Nashville, for over half a century a sprightly cracker-barrel philosopher named Minnie Pearl has been dispensing down-home wisdom and a whole lot of down-deep laughter. Jazz pianist Billy Taylor's music, inclu- ding Jazzmobile Outreach, "makes a joyful noise" and gives a spe- 2 cial streetwise swing to this most American form of expression. For some, "being American" means striving to brand the bold spirit of this land onto work that is universal and timeless. American-born and trained Marilyn Horne not only sings with the passion and precision that embody opera at its grandest -- but she also introduced composers such as Handel to audiences here at home. By elevating American choral musical to the highest levels of excellence, the sweep of Robert Shaw's work has proclaimed the majesty of God throughout this nation. For some, "being American" means reaching from their roots to touch the nation on a larger-than-life canvas. With the courage and sheer power of his fierce talent, Mississippi's James Earl Jones has stamped his purely American mark on classical roles and created new characters who explore man's quest for dignity. Robert Wise brings the perspective of his Indiana childhood to the crafting of movies of imagination and humanity from "The Sound of Music" to "West Side Story." For some, "being American" means flourishing this country's impatient exuberance in the face of dusty tradition. Out of Rob- ert Venturi's genius sprang the Post-Modern movement of architec- ture: forever altering the way we see the cities around us. And the writings of Denise Scott Brown, his wife and partner, have stimulated the American awareness of architecture as public art. For some, being American means being passionate stewards of the arts, committed to bringing theater, painting, dance, music and SO much more to all kinds of Americans across this country. 3 Millions have been stirred and moved by cultural programming like "Omnibus," part of the video trails blazed by Robert Saudek, now caretaker to television's legacy at the Museum of Broadcasting. Two special companies have set the standard in corporate philanthropy. They give hundreds of grants and millions of dollars but, most importantly, they give the example of believing in the importance of arts for America. The AT&T Foundation sup- ports innovative projects across this nation, ranging from tours by dance companies and ethnic artists to original drama and music composition. The Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund aids American performing, visual and literary artists who have a dream -- and it also cares for the future, generously funding arts education. And I want to take a moment for a special salute to someone whose work has intrigued me since I first met him here at the White House a couple of years ago. When you talk about being American, nothing can capture the richness and depth of that experience quite like Native American art. Not only is it our oldest and proudest tradition, but in Native American society art and life are strands of the same cloth. The ancient patterns on blankets, the dances, the colors -- art is an integral and time- honored part of daily life. So I'm very honored to salute Allan Houser. His hands transform bronze and stone to capture the true meaning of this country's unbroken spirit. His sculptures eloquently echo this nation's heritage of proud Apache chiefs -- and speak for the essential humanity of all Americans. I firmly believe that our number one goal for the 21st 4 century must be education. The high-tech challenges of a global marketplace will be overwhelming. But as we equip our kids with the skills to compete, we must also help them develop as complete human beings -- and one way to do this is through the arts. For without knowledge of the beauty and depth of the human spirit -- our successes are hollow, and our lives lacking. As President John Adams wrote: "I must study politics ... that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music." That is why we celebrate these men and women today. Congratulations --- and thank you for your contributions to the great tapestry that is American art. Now, I'd like to ask Ann Radice to assist me in presenting these medals. # # # # RCV BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 7-20-92 ; 7:10PM ; 4567929- 2024566218:# 1 THE WHITE HOUSE washington 92 JUL 20 P7:14 Due Approveb by POTUS 4 pm 7/16! 630 pm 7/20 T- F41 FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION COVER SHEET TO: Dan Mc Grearty FAX NUMBER: X 6218 TELEPHONE NUMBER: X2930 FROM: Rob Swanson TELEPHONE NUMBER: X2312 PAGES (INCLUDING COVER) : 7 COMMENTS: RCV BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 7-20-92 ; 7:10PM ; 4567929- 2024566218;# 2 ID #. CU rec 'd 7/16 WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENCE TRACKING WORKSHEET o OUTGOING H INTERNAL I INCOMING Date Correspondence Received (YY/MM/DD) / Name of Correspondent: Phil Brady MI Mail Report User Codes: (A) (B) (C) Subject: Presidential remarks Presentation or National Medal or the Drbs East Room - wed 7/22/92 ROUTE TO: ACTION DISPOSITION Tracking Type Completion Action Date of Date Office/Agancy (Staff Name) Code YY/MM/DD Response Code YY/MM/DD coold ORIGINATOR 92,07,15 / 1. Referral Note: coat 28 92,07,15 S 92,0716 4100m Referral Note: / / / / 1 Referral Note: / / / / Referral Note: / 1 / / Referral Note: ACTION CODES: DISPOSITION CODES: A . Appropriate Action I Into Copy Only/No Action Necessary A Answered c Completed C " Comment/Recommendation R Direct Reply w/Copy B * Non-Special Referral 5 Suspended D . Draft Response 8 For Signature F . Furnish Fact Sheet X interim Reply to be used as Enclosure FOR OUTGOING CORRESPONDENCE: Type of Response Initials of Signer Code - "A" Cap Please will in comments and = Completion Date Date of Outgoing Comments: chose out RTS 7/20/92 Keep this worksheet attached to the original incoming letter. Send all routing updates to Central Reference (Room 75, OEOB). Always return completed correspondence record to Central Files. Refer questions about the correspondence tracking system to Central Reference, ext. 2590. 5/81 RCV BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 7-20-92 ; 7:11PM ; 4567929- 2024566218;# 3 Document No. 338437ss WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 7/15/92 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 7/16/92 4:00 pm- PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NAT'L MEDAL OF THE ARTS SUBJECT: EAST ROOM - WED. 7/22/92 ACTION FYI ACTION FY VICE PRESIDENT HORNER SKINNER MCBRIDE SCOWCROFT MOORE DARMAN PETERSMEYER BRADY PORTER BROMLEY SMITH CALIO YEUTTER DEMAREST PROVOST FITZWATER FINDLAY GRAY KAUFMAN HOLIDAY MCGROARTY FIRESTONE REMARKS: Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 4:00 p.m., THURSDAY, JULY 16, with a copy to this office. Thank you. RESPONSE: PHILLIP D. BRADY Assistant to the President and Staff Secretary Ext. 2702 RCV BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 7-20-92 ; 7:11PM ; 4567929-> 2024566218:# 4 (Hinchliffe/Gershowitz) July 15, 1992 10 a.m. MEDALS Draft One 2 JUL 15 P2 42 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL MEDALS OF THE ARTS EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY JULY 22, 1992 Barbara and I are proud to be here -- proud to be part of an the America which values arts as well as business or science or poli O tice. President Kennedy expressed so well the importance of this ideal when he said: "Roosevelt and Lincoln understood that the life of the arts...is very close to the center of a nation's pur- pose; and is a test of the quality of a nation's civilization." Well, we're here to pay tribute to some extraordinary men and women -- men and women of genius and passion who enrich that of quality of life in our America "Made in the USA has new meaning place today for almost all these artists were born in small American for This towns trained here in their own country, then turned their uniquely American vision to a wide range of artistic fields. setting Because of their vision, today we celebrate the "sheer and priceless pleasure" of being American. For some, "being American" means being born into a certain regional tradition with the talent to preserve that legacy, and carry it to a wider audience. Earl Scruggs has brought the fast and furious banjo-pickin' "licks" of his "bluegrass revolution" from Flint Hill, NC to Carnegie Hall. Down the road in Nashville, for over half a century a sprightly cracker-barrel philosopher named Minnie Pearl has been dispensing down-home wisdom and a whole lot of down-deep laughter. Mid jazz pianist Billy Taylor's music, including Jazzmobile Outreach, "makes a joyful noise" and RCV BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 7-20-92 ; 7:12PM ; 4567929-> 2024566218;# 5 2 gives a special streetwise swing to this most American form of expression. For some, "being American" means striving to brand the bold spirit of this land onto work that is universal and timeless. American-born and trained Marilyn Horne not only sings with the passion and precision that embody opera at its grandest -- but she also introduced composers such as Handel to audiences here at home. By elevating American choral musical to the highest levels of excellence, the sweep of Robert Shaw's work has proclaimed the majesty of God throughout this nation. For some, "being American" means reaching from their roots to touch the nation on a larger-than-life canvas. With the courage and sheer power of his fierce talent, Mississippi's James where Earl Jones has stamped his purely American mark on classical roles and created new characters who explore man's quest for dignity. Robert wise brings the perspective of his Indiana childhood to the crafting of movies of imagination and humanity from "The sound of Music" to "West Side Story." meaning? For some, "being American" means flourishing this country's impatient exuberance in the face of dusty tradition. Out of Rob- ert Venturi's genius sprang the Post-Modern movement of architec- ture: forever altering the way we see the cities around us. And the writings of Denise Scott Brown, his wife and partner, have stimulated the American awareness of architecture as public art. For some, being American means being passionate stewards of the arts, committed to bringing theater, painting, dance, music RCV BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 7-20-92 ; 7:12PM ; 4567929- 2024566218;# 6 I. 3 and so much more to all kinds or Americans across this country. Millions have been stirred and moved by cultural programming like "Omnibus," part of the video trails blazed by Robert Saudek, now caretaker to television's legacy at the Museum of Broadcasting. Two special companies have set the standard in corporate philanthropy. They give hundreds of grants and millions of dollars but, most importantly, they give the example of believing in the importance of arts for America. The AT&T Foundation sup- ports innovative projects across this nation, ranging from tours by dance companies and ethnic artists to original drama and music composition. The Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund aids American performing, visual and literary artists who have a dream -- and it also cares for the future, generously funding arts education. Before closes, And I want to take a moment for a special salute to someone whose work has intrigued me since I first met him here at the White House a couple of years ago. When you talk about being American, nothing can capture the richness and depth of that experience quite like Native American art. Not only is it our oldest and proudest tradition, but in Native American society art and life are strands of the same cloth. The ancient patterns on blankets, the dances, the colors -- art is an integral and time- honored part of daily life. So I'm very honored to salute Allan Houser. His hands transform bronze and stone to capture the true meaning of this country's unbroken spirit. His sculptures eloquently echo this nation's heritage of proud Apache chiefs -- and speak for the essential humanity of all Americans. RCV BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 7-20-92 ; 7:13PM ; 4567929- 2024566218:# 7 4 I firmly believe that our number one goal for the 21st century must be education. The high-tech challenges of a global marketplace will be overwhelming. But as we equip our kids with the skills to compete, we must also help them develop as complete human beings -- and one way to do this is through the arts. For without knowledge of the beauty and depth of the human spirit -- our successes are hollow, and our lives lacking. As President John Adams wrote: "I must study politics that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music." That is why we celebrate these men and women today. Congratulations -- and thank you for your contributions to the great tapestry that is American art, Now, I'd like to ask Ann Radice to assist me in presenting these medals. # # Document No. 338437ss WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 7/15/92 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 7/16/92 4:00 pm PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NAT'L MEDAL OF THE ARTS SUBJECT: EAST ROOM - WED. 7/22/92 ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT HORNER SKINNER MCBRIDE SCOWCROFT X MOORE > DARMAN N/C PETERSMEYER NC BRADY PORTER N/C BROMLEY SMITH N/C CALIO Ne > YEUTTER X DEMAREST PROVOST T FITZWATER FINDLAY GRAY KAUFMAN HOLIDAY N/C > MCGROARTY FIRESTONE REMARKS: Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 4:00 p.m., THURSDAY, JULY 16, with a copy to this office. Thank you. RESPONSE: PHILLIP D. BRADY Assistant to the President and Staff Secretary Ext. 2702 (Hinchliffe/Gershowitz) July 15, 1992 10 a.m. 2 JUL i5 P2: 42 MEDALS Draft One PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL MEDALS OF THE ARTS EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY JULY 22, 1992 Barbara and I are proud to be here -- proud to be part of an America which values arts as well as business or science or poli- tics. President Kennedy expressed so well the importance of this ideal when he said: "Roosevelt and Lincoln understood that the life of the arts...is very close to the center of a nation's pur- pose; and is a test of the quality of a nation's civilization." Well, we're here to pay tribute to some extraordinary men and women -- men and women of genius and passion who enrich that quality of life in our America. "Made in the USA" has new meaning today -- for almost all these artists were born in small American towns; trained here in their own country; then turned their uniquely American vision to a wide range of artistic fields. Because of their vision, today we celebrate the "sheer and priceless pleasure" of being American. For some, "being American" means being born into a certain regional tradition with the talent to preserve that legacy, and carry it to a wider audience. Earl Scruggs has brought the fast and furious banjo-pickin' "licks" of his "bluegrass revolution" from Flint Hill, NC to Carnegie Hall. Down the road in Nashville, for over half a century a sprightly cracker-barrel philosopher named Minnie Pearl has been dispensing down-home wisdom and a whole lot of down-deep laughter. And jazz pianist Billy Taylor's music, including Jazzmobile Outreach, "makes a joyful noise" and 2 gives a special streetwise swing to this most American form of expression. For some, "being American" means striving to brand the bold spirit of this land onto work that is universal and timeless. American-born and trained Marilyn Horne not only sings with the passion and precision that embody opera at its grandest -- but she also introduced composers such as Handel to audiences here at home. By elevating American choral musical to the highest levels of excellence, the sweep of Robert Shaw's work has proclaimed the majesty of God throughout this nation. For some, "being American" means reaching from their roots to touch the nation on a larger-than-life canvas. With the courage and sheer power of his fierce talent, Mississippi's James Earl Jones has stamped his purely American mark on classical roles and created new characters who explore man's quest for dignity. Robert Wise brings the perspective of his Indiana childhood to the crafting of movies of imagination and humanity from "The Sound of Music" to "West Side Story." For some, "being American" means flourishing this country's impatient exuberance in the face of dusty tradition. Out of Rob- ert Venturi's genius sprang the Post-Modern movement of architec- ture: forever altering the way we see the cities around us. And the writings of Denise Scott Brown, his wife and partner, have stimulated the American awareness of architecture as public art. For some, being American means being passionate stewards of the arts, committed to bringing theater, painting, dance, music 3 and so much more to all kinds of Americans across this country. Millions have been stirred and moved by cultural programming like "Omnibus," part of the video trails blazed by Robert Saudek, now caretaker to television's legacy at the Museum of Broadcasting. Two special companies have set the standard in corporate philanthropy. They give hundreds of grants and millions of dollars but, most importantly, they give the example of believing in the importance of arts for America. The AT&T Foundation sup- ports innovative projects across this nation, ranging from tours by dance companies and ethnic artists to original drama and music composition. The Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund aids American performing, visual and literary artists who have a dream -- and it also cares for the future, generously funding arts education. And I want to take a moment for a special salute to someone whose work has intrigued me since I first met him here at the White House a couple of years ago. When you talk about being American, nothing can capture the richness and depth of that experience quite like Native American art. Not only is it our oldest and proudest tradition, but in Native American society art and life are strands of the same cloth. The ancient patterns on blankets, the dances, the colors -- art is an integral and time- honored part of daily life. So I'm very honored to salute Allan Houser. His hands transform bronze and stone to capture the true meaning of this country's unbroken spirit. His sculptures eloquently echo this nation's heritage of proud Apache chiefs -- and speak for the essential humanity of all Americans. 4 I firmly believe that our number one goal for the 21st century must be education. The high-tech challenges of a global marketplace will be overwhelming. But as we equip our kids with the skills to compete, we must also help them develop as complete human beings -- and one way to do this is through the arts. For without knowledge of the beauty and depth of the human spirit -- our successes are hollow, and our lives lacking. As President John Adams wrote: "I must study politics that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music. " That is why we celebrate these men and women today. Congratulations -- and thank you for your contributions to the great tapestry that is American art. Now, I'd like to ask Ann Radice to assist me in presenting these medals. # # # # THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON 92 JUL 17 A10: 20 July 16, 1992 MEMORANDUM FOR DAN McGROARTY FROM: ROGER B. PORTER RBP SUBJECT: Presidential Remarks: Presentation of National Medal of the Arts We have reviewed the attached presidential remarks and have no suggested comments from a policy standpoint. We approve of the draft in its present form. CC: Phillip D. Brady Document No. 338437ss SMH WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM BA -RN DATE: 7/15/92 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 7/16/92 4:00 pm PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NAT'L MEDAL OF THE ARTS SUBJECT: EAST ROOM WED. 7/22/92 ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT HORNER SKINNER MCBRIDE SCOWCROFT MOORE R DARMAN PETERSMEYER BRADY PORTER BROMLEY SMITH CALIO YEUTTER DEMAREST PROVOST P FITZWATER FINDLAY GRAY KAUFMAN HOLIDAY MCGROARTY FIRESTONE REMARKS: Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 4:00 p.m., THURSDAY, JULY 16, with a copy to this office. Thank you. RESPONSE: no Comment PHILLIP D. BRADY Assistant to the President and Staff Secretary Ext. 2702 (Hinchliffe/Gershowitz) July 15, 1992 10 a.m. 2 JUL15 P2: 42 MEDALS Draft One PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL MEDALS OF THE ARTS EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY JULY 22, 1992 Barbara and I are proud to be here -- proud to be part of an America which values arts as well as business or science or poli- tics. President Kennedy expressed so well the importance of this ideal when he said: "Roosevelt and Lincoln understood that the life of the arts is very close to the center of a nation's pur- pose; and is a test of the quality of a nation's civilization." Well, we're here to pay tribute to some extraordinary men and women -- men and women of genius and passion who enrich that quality of life in our America. "Made in the USA" has new meaning today -- for almost all these artists were born in small American towns; trained here in their own country; then turned their uniquely American vision to a wide range of artistic fields. Because of their vision, today we celebrate the "sheer and priceless pleasure" of being American. For some, "being American" means being born into a certain regional tradition with the talent to preserve that legacy, and carry it to a wider audience. Earl Scruggs has brought the fast and furious banjo-pickin' "licks" of his "bluegrass revolution" from Flint Hill, NC to Carnegie Hall. Down the road in Nashville, for over half a century a sprightly cracker-barrel philosopher named Minnie Pearl has been dispensing down-home wisdom and a whole lot of down-deep laughter. And jazz pianist Billy Taylor's music, including Jazzmobile Outreach, "makes a joyful noise" and 2 gives a special streetwise swing to this most American form of expression. For some, "being American" means striving to brand the bold spirit of this land onto work that is universal and timeless. American-born and trained Marilyn Horne not only sings with the passion and precision that embody opera at its grandest -- but she also introduced composers such as Handel to audiences here at home. By elevating American choral musical to the highest levels of excellence, the sweep of Robert Shaw's work has proclaimed the majesty of God throughout this nation. For some, "being American" means reaching from their roots to touch the nation on a larger-than-life canvas. With the courage and sheer power of his fierce talent, Mississippi's James Earl Jones has stamped his purely American mark on classical roles and created new characters who explore man's quest for dignity. Robert Wise brings the perspective of his Indiana childhood to the crafting of movies of imagination and humanity from "The Sound of Music" to "West Side Story." For some, "being American" means flourishing this country's impatient exuberance in the face of dusty tradition. Out of Rob- ert Venturi's genius sprang the Post-Modern movement of architec- ture: forever altering the way we see the cities around us. And the writings of Denise Scott Brown, his wife and partner, have stimulated the American awareness of architecture as public art. For some, being American means being passionate stewards of the arts, committed to bringing theater, painting, dance, music 3 and so much more to all kinds of Americans across this country. Millions have been stirred and moved by cultural programming like "Omnibus," part of the video trails blazed by Robert Saudek, now caretaker to television's legacy at the Museum of Broadcasting. Two special companies have set the standard in corporate philanthropy. They give hundreds of grants and millions of dollars but, most importantly, they give the example of believing in the importance of arts for America. The AT&T Foundation sup- ports innovative projects across this nation, ranging from tours by dance companies and ethnic artists to original drama and music composition. The Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund aids American performing, visual and literary artists who have a dream -- and it also cares for the future, generously funding arts education. And I want to take a moment for a special salute to someone whose work has intrigued me since I first met him here at the White House a couple of years ago. When you talk about being American, nothing can capture the richness and depth of that experience quite like Native American art. Not only is it our oldest and proudest tradition, but in Native American society art and life are strands of the same cloth. The ancient patterns on blankets, the dances, the colors -- art is an integral and time- honored part of daily life. So I'm very honored to salute Allan Houser. His hands transform bronze and stone to capture the true meaning of this country's unbroken spirit. His sculptures eloquently echo this nation's heritage of proud Apache chiefs I and speak for the essential humanity of all Americans. 4 I firmly believe that our number one goal for the 21st century must be education. The high-tech challenges of a global marketplace will be overwhelming. But as we equip our kids with the skills to compete, we must also help them develop as complete human beings -- and one way to do this is through the arts. For without knowledge of the beauty and depth of the human spirit -- our successes are hollow, and our lives lacking. As President John Adams wrote: "I must study politics that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music." That is why we celebrate these men and women today. Congratulations -- and thank you for your contributions to the great tapestry that is American art. Now, I'd like to ask Ann Radice to assist me in presenting these medals. # # # # Absolutely magnificient speech Beautiful - (Hinchliffe/Gershowitz) Janiee July 15, 1992 10 a.m. MEDALS Draft One PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL MEDALS OF THE ARTS EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY JULY 22, 1992 Barbara and I are proud to be here -- proud to be part of an America which values arts as well as business or science or poli- would quote I tics. President Kennedy expressed so well the importance of this ideal when he said: "Roosevelt and Lincoln understood that the life of the arts is very close to the center of a nation's pur- pose; and is a test of the quality of a nation's civilization." Surely these throther the Well, we're here to pay tribute to some extraordinary men good that as would and women -- men and women of genius and passion who enrich that quality of life in our America. "Made in the USA" has new meaning today -- for almost all these artists were born in small American 1 towns; trained here in their own country; then turned their uniquely American vision to a wide range of artistic fields. Because of their vision, today we celebrate the "sheer and priceless pleasure" of being American. For some, "being American" means being born into a certain regional tradition with the talent to preserve that legacy, and carry it to a wider audience. Earl Scruggs has brought the fast and furious banjo-pickin' "licks" of his "bluegrass revolution" from Flint Hill, NC to Carnegie Hall. Down the road in Nashville, for over half a century a sprightly cracker-barrel philosopher named Minnie Pearl has been dispensing down-home wisdom and a whole lot of down-deep laughter. And jazz pianist Billy Taylor's music, including Jazzmobile Outreach, "makes a joyful noise" and Document No. 338437ss WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM 92 JUL 17 A 9 : 36 DATE: 7/15/92 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 7/16/92 4:00 pm PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NAT'L MEDAL OF THE ARTS SUBJECT: EAST ROOM - WED. 7/22/92 ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT HORNER SKINNER MCBRIDE SCOWCROFT MOORE R DARMAN PETERSMEYER BRADY PORTER > BROMLEY SMITH CALIO YEUTTER DEMAREST PROVOST FITZWATER FINDLAY GRAY > KAUFMAN HOLIDAY MCGROARTY FIRESTONE REMARKS: Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 4:00 p.m., THURSDAY, JULY 16, with a copy to this office. Thank you. RESPONSE: No comment PHILLIP D. BRADY Assistant to the President and Staff Secretary Ext. 2702 (Hinchliffe/Gershowitz) July 15, 1992 10 a.m. 2 JUL i5 P2: 42 MEDALS Draft One PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL MEDALS OF THE ARTS EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY JULY 22, 1992 Barbara and I are proud to be here -- proud to be part of an America which values arts as well as business or science or poli- tics. President Kennedy expressed so well the importance of this ideal when he said: "Roosevelt and Lincoln understood that the life of the arts is very close to the center of a nation's pur- pose; and is a test of the quality of a nation's civilization." Well, we're here to pay tribute to some extraordinary men and women -- men and women of genius and passion who enrich that quality of life in our America. "Made in the USA" has new meaning today -- for almost all these artists were born in small American towns; trained here in their own country; then turned their uniquely American vision to a wide range of artistic fields. Because of their vision, today we celebrate the "sheer and priceless pleasure" of being American. For some, "being American" means being born into a certain regional tradition with the talent to preserve that legacy, and carry it to a wider audience. Earl Scruggs has brought the fast and furious banjo-pickin' "licks" of his "bluegrass revolution" from Flint Hill, NC to Carnegie Hall. Down the road in Nashville, for over half a century a sprightly cracker-barrel philosopher named Minnie Pearl has been dispensing down-home wisdom and a whole lot of down-deep laughter. And jazz pianist Billy Taylor's music, including Jazzmobile Outreach, "makes a joyful noise" and 2 gives a special streetwise swing to this most American form of expression. For some, "being American" means striving to brand the bold spirit of this land onto work that is universal and timeless. American-born and trained Marilyn Horne not only sings with the passion and precision that embody opera at its grandest -- but she also introduced composers such as Handel to audiences here at home. By elevating American choral musical to the highest levels of excellence, the sweep of Robert Shaw's work has proclaimed the majesty of God throughout this nation. For some, "being American" means reaching from their roots to touch the nation on a larger-than-life canvas. With the courage and sheer power of his fierce talent, Mississippi's James Earl Jones has stamped his purely American mark on classical roles and created new characters who explore man's quest for dignity. Robert Wise brings the perspective of his Indiana childhood to the crafting of movies of imagination and humanity from "The Sound of Music" to "West Side Story." For some, "being American" means flourishing this country's impatient exuberance in the face of dusty tradition. Out of Rob- ert Venturi's genius sprang the Post-Modern movement of architec- ture: forever altering the way we see the cities around us. And the writings of Denise Scott Brown, his wife and partner, have stimulated the American awareness of architecture as public art. For some, being American means being passionate stewards of the arts, committed to bringing theater, painting, dance, music 3 and so much more to all kinds of Americans across this country. Millions have been stirred and moved by cultural programming like "Omnibus," part of the video trails blazed by Robert Saudek, now caretaker to television's legacy at the Museum of Broadcasting. Two special companies have set the standard in corporate philanthropy. They give hundreds of grants and millions of dollars but, most importantly, they give the example of believing in the importance of arts for America. The AT&T Foundation sup- ports innovative projects across this nation, ranging from tours by dance companies and ethnic artists to original drama and music composition. The Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund aids American performing, visual and literary artists who have a dream -- and it also cares for the future, generously funding arts education. And I want to take a moment for a special salute to someone whose work has intrigued me since I first met him here at the White House a couple of years ago. When you talk about being American, nothing can capture the richness and depth of that experience quite like Native American art. Not only is it our oldest and proudest tradition, but in Native American society art and life are strands of the same cloth. The ancient patterns on blankets, the dances, the colors -- art is an integral and time- honored part of daily life. So I'm very honored to salute Allan Houser. His hands transform bronze and stone to capture the true meaning of this country's unbroken spirit. His sculptures eloquently echo this nation's heritage of proud Apache chiefs : and speak for the essential humanity of all Americans. 4 I firmly believe that our number one goal for the 21st century must be education. The high-tech challenges of a global marketplace will be overwhelming. But as we equip our kids with the skills to compete, we must also help them develop as complete human beings -- and one way to do this is through the arts. For without knowledge of the beauty and depth of the human spirit -- our successes are hollow, and our lives lacking. As President John Adams wrote: "I must study politics that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy ... in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music. " That is why we celebrate these men and women today. Congratulations -- and thank you for your contributions to the great tapestry that is American art. Now, I'd like to ask Ann Radice to assist me in presenting these medals. # # # # (Hinchliffe/Gershowitz) July 15, 1992 10 a.m. MEDALS Draft One PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL MEDALS OF THE ARTS EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY JULY 22, 1992 Barbara and I are proud to be here -- proud to be part of an America which values arts as well as business or science or poli- tics. President Kennedy expressed so well the importance of this ideal when he said: "Roosevelt and Lincoln understood that the life of the arts is very close to the center of a nation's pur- pose; and is a test of the quality of a nation's civilization." Well, we're here to pay tribute to some extraordinary men and women -- men and women of genius and passion who enrich that quality of life in our America. "Made in the USA" has new meaning today -- for almost all these artists were born in small American towns; trained here in their own country; then turned their uniquely American vision to a wide range of artistic fields. Because of their vision, today we celebrate the "sheer and priceless pleasure" of being American. For some, "being American" means being born into a certain regional tradition with the talent to preserve that legacy, and carry it to a wider audience. Earl Scruggs has brought the fast and furious banjo-pickin' "licks" of his "bluegrass revolution" from Flint Hill, NC to Carnegie Hall. Down the road in Nashville, for over half a century a sprightly cracker-barrel philosopher named Minnie Pearl has been dispensing down-home wisdom and a whole lot of down-deep laughter. And jazz pianist Billy Taylor's music, including Jazzmobile Outreach, "makes a joyful noise" and 2 gives a special streetwise swing to this most American form of expression. For some, "being American" means striving to brand the bold spirit of this land onto work that is universal and timeless. American-born and trained Marilyn Horne not only sings with the passion and precision that embody opera at its grandest -- but she also introduced composers such as Handel to audiences here at home. By elevating American choral musical to the highest levels of excellence, the sweep of Robert Shaw's work has proclaimed the majesty of God throughout this nation. For some, "being American" means reaching from their roots to touch the nation on a larger-than-life canvas. With the courage and sheer power of his fierce talent, Mississippi's James Earl Jones has stamped his purely American mark on classical roles and created new characters who explore man's quest for dignity. Robert Wise brings the perspective of his Indiana childhood to the crafting of movies of imagination and humanity from "The Sound of Music" to "West Side Story." For some, "being American" means flourishing this country's impatient exuberance in the face of dusty tradition. Out of Rob- ert Venturi's genius sprang the Post-Modern movement of architec- ture: forever altering the way we see the cities around us. And the writings of Denise Scott Brown, his wife and partner, have stimulated the American awareness of architecture as public art. For some, being American means being passionate stewards of the arts, committed to bringing theater, painting, dance, music 3 and so much more to all kinds of Americans across this country. Millions have been stirred and moved by cultural programming like "Omnibus," part of the video trails blazed by Robert Saudek, now caretaker to television's legacy at the Museum of Broadcasting. Two special companies have set the standard in corporate philanthropy. They give hundreds of grants and millions of dollars but, most importantly, they give the example of believing in the importance of arts for America. The AT&T Foundation sup- ports innovative projects across this nation, ranging from tours by dance companies and ethnic artists to original drama and music composition. The Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund aids American performing, visual and literary artists who have a dream -- and it also cares for the future, generously funding arts education. And I want to take a moment for a special salute to someone whose work has intrigued me since I first met him here at the White House a couple of years ago. When you talk about being American, nothing can capture the richness and depth of that experience quite like Native American art. Not only is it our oldest and proudest tradition, but in Native American society art and life are strands of the same cloth. The ancient patterns on blankets, the dances, the colors -- art is an integral and time- honored part of daily life. So I'm very honored to salute Allan Houser. His hands transform bronze and stone to capture the true meaning of this country's unbroken spirit. His sculptures eloquently echo this nation's heritage of proud Apache chiefs -- and speak for the essential humanity of all Americans. 4 I firmly believe that our number one goal for the 21st century must be education. The high-tech challenges of a global marketplace will be overwhelming. But as we equip our kids with the skills to compete, we must also help them develop as complete human beings -- and one way to do this is through the arts. For without knowledge of the beauty and depth of the human spirit -- our successes are hollow, and our lives lacking. As President John Adams wrote: "I must study politics that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music." That is why we celebrate these men and women today. Congratulations -- and thank you for your contributions to the great tapestry that is American art. Now, I'd like to ask Ann Radice to assist me in presenting these medals. # # # # (Hinchliffe/Gershowitz) July 15, 1992 10 a.m. MEDALS Draft One PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL MEDALS OF THE ARTS EAST ROOM WEDNESDAY JULY 22, 1992 Barbara and I are proud to be here -- proud to be part of an America which values arts as well as business or science or poli- tics. President Kennedy expressed so well the importance of this ideal when he said: "Roosevelt and Lincoln understood that the life of the arts is very close to the center of a nation's pur- pose; and is a test of the quality of a nation's civilization." Well, we're here to pay tribute to some extraordinary men and women -- men and women of genius and passion who enrich that quality of life in our America. "Made in the USA" has new meaning today -- for almost all these artists were born in small American towns; trained here in their own country; then turned their uniquely American vision to a wide range of artistic fields. Because of their vision, today we celebrate the "sheer and priceless pleasure" of being American. For some, "being American" means being born into a certain regional tradition with the talent to preserve that legacy, and carry it to a wider audience. Earl Scruggs has brought the fast and furious banjo-pickin' "licks" of his "bluegrass revolution" from Flint Hill, NC to Carnegie Hall. Down the road in Nashville, for over half a century a sprightly cracker-barrel philosopher named Minnie Pearl has been dispensing down-home wisdom and a whole lot of down-deep laughter. And jazz pianist Billy Taylor's music, including Jazzmobile Outreach, "makes a joyful noise" and 2 gives a special streetwise swing to this most American form of expression. For some, "being American" means striving to brand the bold spirit of this land onto work that is universal and timeless. American-born and trained Marilyn Horne not only sings with the passion and precision that embody opera at its grandest -- but she also introduced composers such as Handel to audiences here at home. By elevating American choral musical to the highest levels of excellence, the sweep of Robert Shaw's work has proclaimed the majesty of God throughout this nation. For some, "being American" means reaching from their roots to touch the nation on a larger-than-life canvas. With the courage and sheer power of his fierce talent, Mississippi's James Earl Jones has stamped his purely American mark on classical roles and created new characters who explore man's quest for dignity. Robert Wise brings the perspective of his Indiana childhood to the crafting of movies of imagination and humanity from "The Sound of Music" to "West Side Story." For some, "being American" means flourishing this country's impatient exuberance in the face of dusty tradition. Out of Rob- ert Venturi's genius sprang the Post-Modern movement of architec- ture: forever altering the way we see the cities around us. And the writings of Denise Scott Brown, his wife and partner, have stimulated the American awareness of architecture as public art. For some, being American means being passionate stewards of the arts, committed to bringing theater, painting, dance, music 3 and so much more to all kinds of Americans across this country. Millions have been stirred and moved by cultural programming like "Omnibus," part of the video trails blazed by Robert Saudek, now caretaker to television's legacy at the Museum of Broadcasting. Two special companies have set the standard in corporate philanthropy. They give hundreds of grants and millions of dollars but, most importantly, they give the example of believing in the importance of arts for America. The AT&T Foundation sup- ports innovative projects across this nation, ranging from tours by dance companies and ethnic artists to original drama and music composition. The Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund aids American performing, visual and literary artists who have a dream -- and it also cares for the future, generously funding arts education. And I want to take a moment for a special salute to someone whose work has intrigued me since I first met him here at the White House a couple of years ago. When you talk about being American, nothing can capture the richness and depth of that experience quite like Native American art. Not only is it our oldest and proudest tradition, but in Native American society art and life are strands of the same cloth. The ancient patterns on blankets, the dances, the colors -- art is an integral and time- honored part of daily life. So I'm very honored to salute Allan Houser. His hands transform bronze and stone to capture the true meaning of this country's unbroken spirit. His sculptures eloquently echo this nation's heritage of proud Apache chiefs and speak for the essential humanity of all Americans. 4 I firmly believe that our number one goal for the 21st century must be education. The high-tech challenges of a global marketplace will be overwhelming. But as we equip our kids with the skills to compete, we must also help them develop as complete human beings -- and one way to do this is through the arts. For without knowledge of the beauty and depth of the human spirit -- our successes are hollow, and our lives lacking. As President John Adams wrote: "I must study politics ... that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music." That is why we celebrate these men and women today. Congratulations -- and thank you for your contributions to the great tapestry that is American art. Now, I'd like to ask Ann Radice to assist me in presenting these medals. # # # #