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Lighting of the National Christmas Tree 12/10/92 [OA 8485]
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Lighting of the National Christmas Tree 12/10/92 [OA 8485]
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S
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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
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Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
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Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13649
Folder ID Number:
13649-002
Folder Title:
Lighting of the National Christmas Tree 12/10/92 [OA 8485]
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6
1
LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE
ELLIPSE \ THURSDAY, DEC. 10, 1992 \ 5:00 P.M.
THANK YOU, JOE (REILEY, PRESIDENT OF
CHRISTMAS PAGEANT OF PEACE) FOR THAT KIND
INTRODUCTION. SECRETARY MANUEL LUJAN. JIM
RIDENOUR (DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL PARK SERVICE).
AND LET ME ALSO THANK THE ENTERTAINERS WHO
HAVE MADE THIS EVENT so SPECIAL:
- 2 -
LEE GREENWOOD; LUCIE ARNAZ; KESHIA KNIGHT
PULLIAM; WILLARD SCOTT (SANTA CLAUS); THE
CHILDREN'S CHORUS OF MARYLAND; CAST OF "A
CHRISTMAS CAROL", AND THE U.S. COAST GUARD
BAND.
BARBARA AND I ARE PLEASED ALL OF YOU
COULD JOIN US THIS EVENING. IT'S WONDERFUL
TO LOOK OUT THERE AND SEE so MANY SMILING
FACES -- ESPECIALLY THE LITTLE ONES.
- 3 -
THERE IS SOMETHING MAGICAL ABOUT THE
MONTH OF DECEMBER. No MATTER WHAT OUR AGE,
IT TAKES US BACK TO THE DAYS WHEN WE TOO WERE
CHILDREN. As ADULTS, WE NEED To STOP A
MINUTE AND TAKE A GOOD LOOK AT THE CHILDREN
WHO SURROUND US.
THIS IS THEIR HOLIDAY, AN ENTIRE SEASON
DEDICATED TO THE IMPACT OF ONE CHILD ON THE
WORLD. THERE IS A LESSON TO BE LEARNED FROM
THESE KIDS.
- 4 -
Look AT WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT TO THEM -- THE
PEOPLE THEY LOVE. AND THEIR LOVE EXTENDS
BEYOND THE IMMEDIATE FAMILY TO INCLUDE
FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS, CLASSMATES -- YES, EVEN
TEACHERS -- ALL WITHOUT CONDITIONS AND
PRECONCEIVED NOTIONS.
BARBARA AND I WANT TO DEDICATE THIS TREE
TO THE CHILDREN OF AMERICA
FOR THEY ARE
MORE THAN OUR FUTURE
THEY ARE OUR
PRESENT.
- 5 -
THEY REMIND US THAT WE MUST LOVE ONE ANOTHER
IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE PEACE -- SIBLING
RIVALRIES NOT WITHSTANDING. WHICH BRINGS US
TO THE SMALLER TREES -- 57 OF THEM -- THE
PAGEANT OF PEACE. THEY ARE DEDICATED TO THE
CHILDREN OF THE WORLD WHO ENDURE A LIFETIME'S
WORTH OF PAIN AND TERROR LONG BEFORE THEIR
CHILDHOOD HAS RUN ITS COURSE. THEY ARE THE
CHILDREN OF SOMALIA, THE CHILDREN EVERYWHERE
WHO LIVE IN FEAR AND WANT.
= 6 -
OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH THEM AND THE ONES THEY
CHERISH . MAY THEIR FAMILIES BE SAFE AND
THE FIGHTING END SOON.
AND LET US ALSO PRAY FOR OUR ARMED FORCES
WHO ARE DOING THEIR DUTY VINDICATING THE
VALUES OF AMERICA AND THE SPIRIT OF THE
CHRISTMAS SEASON IN A FAR=OFF LAND. WE
SALUTE THEM AND THEIR SELFLESS DEVOTION TO
COUNTRY.
- 7 -
FROM BARBARA AND ME AND OUR ENTIRE
FAMILY: WE WISH YOU ALL A VERY MERRY
CHRISTMAS, A HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR AND
LOVE THAT WILL OUTSHINE THIS TREE YEAR ROUND.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL AND MERRY CHRISTMAS.
[THROW SWITCH ILLUMINATING CHRISTMAS TREE.]
# # #
Document No. 36538/ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
12/7/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
---
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE
SUBJECT:
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 - - 5:50 p.m.
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCBRIDE
BAKER
MOORE
SCOWCROFT
MULLINS
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BATES
PORTER
BRADY
PROVOST
BROMLEY
ROSS
CALIO
SMITH
DEMAREST
TUTWILER
FITZWATER
ZOELLICK
GRAY
MCGROARTY
HOLIDAY
PORTER ROSE
HORNER
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
2 DEC 7 .2 P4: 30
December 7, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
FROM:
CHRISTINA MARTIN INCINCING
DAN MC GROARTY
SUBJECT:
PROPOSED REMARKS AT LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL
CHRISTMAS TREE
I. SUMMARY
On Thursday, December 10th at 5:50 p.m. you will deliver
brief remarks to an audience of several thousand at the Lighting
of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse.
II. DISCUSSION
Your remarks (approximately 5 minutes / cards) focus on
children.
Martin/Bunton
Dec. 2, 1992
11:15 a.m.
Draft One
STAR
PROPOSED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL
CHRISTMAS TREE
THE ELLIPSE
THURSDAY, DEC. 10, 1992
5:00 P.M.
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Children's Chorus of Maryland, actress
Lucie Arnaz; Lee Greenwood; actress Keshia Knight Pulliam;
Willard Scott; cast of "A Christmas Carol", and the U.S. Coast
Guard Band.]
Barbara and I are pleased all of you could join us this
evening. It's wonderful to look out there and see so many
smiling faces -- especially the little ones. It seems the kids
have their eyes trained on this stage -- some from box seats atop
their parent's shoulders and others teetering on their toes in
hopes of catching an unobstructed glimpse
...
of Santa Claus.
(You know, I ought to be used to this by now, for years I've been
upstaged by Barbara and her fan clubs, then Millie and her book,
and now Santa seems to be stealing the spotlight
...
or is
Willard Scott?)
There is something magical about the month of December. No
matter what our age, it takes us back to the days when we too
were children. You remember
...
when suits and ties were
considered strictly Sunday attire. And Barbara, remember what it
was like when you couldn't wait to grow up so you could spend all
day walking around in high heels? The passage of time has done
2
more than complicate our dress code -- it's complicated our
lives. It used to be that at this time of the year we had one
thought, one goal: to stay off the list that Ole St. Nick was
checking twice. Now we worry about the office, rush hour,
scheduling and
oh, yes, Christmas
baking, decorating,
making travel plans, mailing Christmas cards, and the age old
dilemma -- what to get the man who has everything.
We need to stop a minute and take a good look at the
children who surround us. This is their holiday. An entire
season dedicated to the impact of one child on the world. There
is a lesson to be learned from these kids. Look at what is most
important to them -- the people they love. And their love
extends beyond the immediate family to include friends,
neighbors, classmates -- yes, even teachers -- all without
conditions and preconceived notions.
Barbara and I want to dedicate this tree to the children of
America
for they are more than our future
they are
our present. They remind us that we must love one another in
order to achieve peace -- sibling rivalries not withstanding.
Which brings us to the smaller trees -- 57 of them -- The
Pageant of Peace. They are dedicated to the children of the
world who endure a lifetime's worth of pain and terror long
before their childhood has run its course. They are the children
of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the children of Somalia, the children
everywhere who live in fear and want. Our prayers are with them
3
and the ones they cherish
may their families be safe and the
fighting end soon.
[And let us also pray for our Armed Forces who are doing
their duty vindicating the values of America and the spirit of
the Christmas season in a far-off land. We salute them and
their selfless devotion to country.]
And finally, my wish for you this holiday -- my apologies if
this sounds syrupy -- is a love that is young at heart. Let us
look at every child we encounter as an opportunity to reflect
upon unconditional acceptance. For the skeptics out there in the
audience -- stoics and scrooges alike -- let me remind you that
this is not a new concept. After all, it was the Wise Men who
sought out the infant Jesus.
From Barbara and me and our entire family: We wish you all
a very Merry Christmas, a happy and healthy New Year and love
that will outshine this tree year round. God bless you all and
Merry Christmas.
[THROW SWITCH ILLUMINATING CHRISTMAS TREE.]
#
#
#
Document No. 365381ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
92 DEC 2 P1:28
DATE: 12/2/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: FRIDAY, 12/4/92 COB
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE
SUBJECT:
THE ELLIPSE - THURSDAY, 12/10 - 5:00 pm
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCBRIDE
BAKER
X MOORE
SCOWCROFT
Y
MULLINS
DARMAN N/C
PETERSMEYER M
BATES
PORTER N/C
BRADY
PROVOST
BROMLEY
ROSS
CALIO
SMITH
DEMAREST N/C
TUTWILER
FITZWATER
X
ZOELLICK N/C
GRAY
MCGROARTY
HOLIDAY
FIRESTONE
HORNER
PORTER ROSE
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than COB, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
called 11:00
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Martin/Bunton
Dec. 2, 1992
11:15 a.m.
2 DEC 2 ) All: 53
Draft One
STAR
PROPOSED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL
CHRISTMAS TREE
THE ELLIPSE
THURSDAY, DEC. 10, 1992
5:00 P.M.
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Children's Chorus of Maryland, actress
Lucie Arnaz; Lee Greenwood; actress Keshia Knight Pulliam;
Willard Scott; cast of "A Christmas Carol", and the U.S. Coast
Guard Band.]
Barbara and I are pleased all of you could join us this
evening. It's wonderful to look out there and see so many
smiling faces -- especially the little ones. It seems the kids
have their eyes trained on this stage -- some from box seats atop
their parent's shoulders and others teetering on their toes in
hopes of catching an unobstructed glimpse
...
of Santa Claus.
(You know, I ought to be used to this by now, for years I've been
upstaged by Barbara and her fan clubs, then Millie and her book,
and now Santa seems to be stealing the spotlight
...
or is
Willard Scott?)
There is something magical about the month of December. No
matter what our age, it takes us back to the days when we too
were children. You remember
...
when suits and ties were
considered strictly Sunday attire. And Barbara, remember what it
was like when you couldn't wait to grow up so you could spend all
day walking around in high heels? The passage of time has done
2
more than complicate our dress code -- it's complicated our
lives. It used to be that at this time of the year we had one
thought, one goal: to stay off the list that Ole St. Nick was
checking twice. Now we worry about the office, rush hour,
scheduling and
oh, yes, Christmas
baking, decorating,
making travel plans, mailing Christmas cards, and the age old
dilemma -- what to get the man who has everything.
We need to stop a minute and take a good look at the
children who surround us. This is their holiday. An entire
season dedicated to the impact of one child on the world. There
is a lesson to be learned from these kids. Look at what is most
important to them -- the people they love. And their love
extends beyond the immediate family to include friends,
neighbors, classmates -- yes, even teachers -- all without
conditions and preconceived notions.
Barbara and I want to dedicate this tree to the children of
America
for they are more than our future
...
they are
our present. They remind us that we must love one another in
order to achieve peace -- sibling rivalries not withstanding.
Which brings us to the smaller trees -- 57 of them -- The
Pageant of Peace. They are dedicated to the children of the
world who endure a lifetime's worth of pain and terror long
before their childhood has run its course. They are the children
of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the children of Somalia, the children
everywhere who live in fear and want. Our prayers are with them
3
and the ones they cherish
may their families be safe and the
fighting end soon.
And, my wish for you this holiday -- my apologies if this
sounds syrupy -- is a love that is young at heart. Let us look
at every child we encounter as an opportunity to reflect upon
unconditional acceptance. For the skeptics out there in the
audience -- stoics and scrooges alike -- let me remind you that
is not a new concept. After all, it was the Wise Men who sought
out the infant Jesus.
From Barbara and me and our entire family: We wish you all
a very Merry Christmas, a happy and healthy New Year and love
that will outshine this tree year round. God bless you all and
Merry Christmas.
[THROW SWITCH ILLUMINATING CHRISTMAS TREE. ]
# # #
Document No. 365381ss
8786
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
12/2/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: FRIDAY, 12/4/92 COB
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE
SUBJECT:
THE ELLIPSE - THURSDAY, 12/10 - 5:00pm
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCBRIDE
BAKER
MOORE
SCOWCROFT
MULLINS
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BATES
PORTER
BRADY
PROVOST
BROMLEY
ROSS
CALIO
SMITH
DEMAREST
TUTWILER
FITZWATER
ZOELLICK
GRAY
MCGROARTY
HOLIDAY
FIRESTONE
HORNER
PORTER ROSE
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than COB, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
December 4, 1992
RESPONSE:
TO:
DAN MCGROARTY
Dowenerd PHILLIP your D. BRADY holidays
The NSC staff concurs with the draft presidential
Assistant to the President
remarks. Please see additional note at end.
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Brent Scowcroft
CC: Phillip D. Brady
Martin/Bunton
Dec. 2, 1992
11:15 a.m.
2 DEC 2 All: 53
Draft One
STAR
PROPOSED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL
CHRISTMAS TREE
THE ELLIPSE
THURSDAY, DEC. 10, 1992
5:00 P.M.
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Children's Chorus of Maryland, actress
Lucie Arnaz; Lee Greenwood; actress Keshia Knight Pulliam;
Willard Scott; cast of "A Christmas Carol", and the U.S. Coast
Guard Band.]
Barbara and I are pleased all of you could join us this
evening. It's wonderful to look out there and see so many
smiling faces -- especially the little ones. It seems the kids
have their eyes trained on this stage -- some from box seats atop
their parent's shoulders and others teetering on their toes in
hopes of catching an unobstructed glimpse
...
of Santa Claus.
(You know, I ought to be used to this by now, for years I've been
upstaged by Barbara and her fan clubs, then Millie and her book,
and now Santa seems to be stealing the spotlight
or is
Willard Scott?)
There is something magical about the month of December. No
matter what our age, it takes us back to the days when we too
were children. You remember
when suits and ties were
considered strictly Sunday attire. And Barbara, remember what it
was like when you couldn't wait to grow up so you could spend all
day walking around in high heels? The passage of time has done
2
more than complicate our dress code -- it's complicated our
lives. It used to be that at this time of the year we had one
thought, one goal: to stay off the list that Ole St. Nick was
checking twice. Now we worry about the office, rush hour,
scheduling and
oh, yes, Christmas
baking, decorating,
making travel plans, mailing Christmas cards, and the age old
dilemma -- what to get the man who has everything.
We need to stop a minute and take a good look at the
children who surround us. This is their holiday. An entire
season dedicated to the impact of one child on the world. There
is a lesson to be learned from these kids. Look at what is most
important to them -- the people they love. And their love
extends beyond the immediate family to include friends,
neighbors, classmates -- yes, even teachers -- all without
conditions and preconceived notions.
Barbara and I want to dedicate this tree to the children of
America
for they are more than our future
they are
our present. They remind us that we must love one another in
order to achieve peace -- sibling rivalries not withstanding.
Which brings us to the smaller trees -- 57 of them -- The
Pageant of Peace. They are dedicated to the children of the
world who endure a lifetime's worth of pain and terror long
before their childhood has run its course. They are the children
of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the children of Somalia, the children
everywhere who live in fear and want. Our prayers are with them
3
and the ones they cherish
may their families be safe and the
fighting end soon.
And, my wish for you this holiday -- my apologies if this
sounds syrupy -- is a love that is young at heart. Let us look
at every child we encounter as an opportunity to reflect upon
unconditional acceptance. For the skeptics out there in the
deleted?,
audience -- stoics and scrooges alike -- let me remind you that this?
is not a new concept. After all, it was the Wise Men who sought
out the infant Jesus.
From Barbara and me and our entire family: We wish you all
a very Merry Christmas, a happy and healthy New Year and love
that will outshine this tree year round. God bless you all and
Merry Christmas.
[THROW SWITCH ILLUMINATING CHRISTMAS TREE.]
# # #
[ADD IF APPROP RIATE:
ONCE AGAIN AT THIS SEASON,
our ARMED FORCES ARE
yes
DOING THEIR Dniy,
THEM AND WHEIR SELFLESS DEVOTION To COUNTRY O ADUTY.
VINDKATING THE VALUESA
AMERICA AND THE SPIRIT of THE
SEASON IN A FAROFF LAND.
THIS TIME, THEY BRING 10PE TO
THE STARVING OKSOMALIA. WE
SALUTE
Document No. 365381ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
12/2/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: FRIDAY, 12/4/92 COB
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE
SUBJECT:
THE ELLIPSE THURSDAY, 12/10 - 5:00pm
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCBRIDE
BAKER
MOORE
SCOWCROFT
MULLINS
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BATES
PORTER
BRADY
PROVOST
BROMLEY
ROSS
CALIO
SMITH
DEMAREST
TUTWILER
FITZWATER
ZOELLICK
GRAY
MCGROARTY
HOLIDAY
FIRESTONE
HORNER
PORTER ROSE
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than COB, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
no comment
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Martin/Bunton
Dec. 2, 1992
11:15 a.m.
2 DEC 2 All: 53
Draft One
STAR
PROPOSED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL
CHRISTMAS TREE
THE ELLIPSE
THURSDAY, DEC. 10, 1992
5:00 P.M.
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Children's Chorus of Maryland, actress
Lucie Arnaz; Lee Greenwood; actress Keshia Knight Pulliam;
Willard Scott; cast of "A Christmas Carol", and the U.S. Coast
Guard Band.]
Barbara and I are pleased all of you could join us this
evening. It's wonderful to look out there and see so many
smiling faces -- especially the little ones. It seems the kids
have their eyes trained on this stage -- some from box seats atop
their parent's shoulders and others teetering on their toes in
hopes of catching an unobstructed glimpse
...
of Santa Claus.
(You know, I ought to be used to this by now, for years I've been
upstaged by Barbara and her fan clubs, then Millie and her book,
and now Santa seems to be stealing the spotlight
...
or is
Willard Scott?)
There is something magical about the month of December. No
matter what our age, it takes us back to the days when we too
were children. You remember
...
when suits and ties were
considered strictly Sunday attire. And Barbara, remember what it
was like when you couldn't wait to grow up so you could spend all
day walking around in high heels? The passage of time has done
2
more than complicate our dress code -- it's complicated our
lives. It used to be that at this time of the year we had one
thought, one goal: to stay off the list that Ole St. Nick was
checking twice. Now we worry about the office, rush hour,
scheduling and
oh, yes, Christmas
baking, decorating,
making travel plans, mailing Christmas cards, and the age old
dilemma -- what to get the man who has everything.
We need to stop a minute and take a good look at the
children who surround us. This is their holiday. An entire
season dedicated to the impact of one child on the world. There
is a lesson to be learned from these kids. Look at what is most
important to them -- the people they love. And their love
extends beyond the immediate family to include friends,
neighbors, classmates -- yes, even teachers -- all without
conditions and preconceived notions.
Barbara and I want to dedicate this tree to the children of
America
for they are more than our future
they are
our present. They remind us that we must love one another in
order to achieve peace -- sibling rivalries not withstanding.
Which brings us to the smaller trees -- 57 of them -- The
Pageant of Peace. They are dedicated to the children of the
world who endure a lifetime's worth of pain and terror long
before their childhood has run its course. They are the children
of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the children of Somalia, the children
everywhere who live in fear and want. Our prayers are with them
3
and the ones they cherish . may their families be safe and the
fighting end soon.
And, my wish for you this holiday -- my apologies if this
sounds syrupy -- is a love that is young at heart. Let us look
at every child we encounter as an opportunity to reflect upon
unconditional acceptance. For the skeptics out there in the
audience -- stoics and scrooges alike -- let me remind you that
is not a new concept. After all, it was the Wise Men who sought
out the infant Jesus.
From Barbara and me and our entire family: We wish you all
a very Merry Christmas, a happy and healthy New Year and love
that will outshine this tree year round. God bless you all and
Merry Christmas.
[THROW SWITCH ILLUMINATING CHRISTMAS TREE.]
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
December 4, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAN MCGROARTY
SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR COMMUNICATION
FROM:
melfor
ROBERT T. SWANSON
ASSISTANT COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Lighting of the National
Christmas Tree
At your request, Counsel's office has reviewed the above-
referenced matter. Comments as indicated.
Attachment
CC: Phillip D. Brady
Martin/Bunton
Dec. 2, 1992
11:15 a.m.
I DEC 2 All: 53
Draft One
STAR
PROPOSED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL
CHRISTMAS TREE
THE ELLIPSE
THURSDAY, DEC. 10, 1992
5:00 P.M.
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Children's Chorus of Maryland, actress
Lucie Arnaz; Lee Greenwood; actress Keshia Knight Pulliam;
Willard Scott; cast of "A Christmas Carol", and the U.S. Coast
Guard Band.]
Barbara and I are pleased all of you could join us this
evening. It's wonderful to look out there and see so many
smiling faces -- especially the little ones. It seems the kids
have their eyes trained on this stage -- some from box seats atop
their parent's shoulders and others teetering on their toes in
hopes of catching an unobstructed glimpse
...
of Santa Claus.
(You know, I ought to be used to this by now, for years I've been
upstaged by Barbara and her fan clubs, then Millie and her book,
and now Santa seems to be stealing the spotlight
...
or is
Willard Scott?)
There is something magical about the month of December. No
matter what our age, it takes us back to the days when we too
were children. You remember
...
when suits and ties were
considered strictly Sunday attire. And Barbara, remember what it
was like when you couldn't wait to grow up so you could spend all
day walking around in high heels? The passage of time has done
2
more than complicate our dress code -- it's complicated our
lives. It used to be that at this time of the year we had one
thought, one goal: to stay off the list that Ole St. Nick was
checking twice. Now we worry about the office, rush hour,
scheduling and
oh, yes, Christmas
baking, decorating,
making travel plans, mailing Christmas cards, and the age old
dilemma -- what to get the man who has everything.
We need to stop a minute and take a good look at the
children who surround us. This is their holiday. An entire
season dedicated to the impact of one child on the world. There
is a lesson to be learned from these kids. Look at what is most
important to them -- the people they love. And their love
extends beyond the immediate family to include friends,
neighbors, classmates -- yes, even teachers, all without
5 no flip
conditions and preconceived notions
remurks
Barbara and I want to dedicate this tree to the children of this
America
...
for they are more than our future
they are
year
our present. They remind us that we must love one another in
order to achieve peace V sibling rivalries not withstanding.
of
Which brings us to the smaller trees -- 57 of them -- The
Pageant of Peace. They are dedicated to the children of the
world who endure a lifetime's worth of pain and terror long
before their childhood has run its course. They are the children
of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the children of Somalia, the children
everywhere who live in fear and want. Our prayers are with them
3
and the ones they cherish
may their families be safe and the
fighting end soon.
*
And, my wish for you this holiday -- my apologies if this
sounds syrupy -- is a love that is young at heart. Let us look
at every child we encounter as an opportunity to reflect upon
Too
unconditional acceptance. For the skeptics * out there in the
audience -- stoics and scrooges alike -- let me remind you that
is not a new concept. After all, it was the Wise Men who sought
out the infant Jesus.
From Barbara and me and our entire family: We wish you all
a very Merry Christmas, a happy and healthy New Year and love
that will outshine this tree year round. God bless you all and
Merry Christmas.
[THROW SWITCH ILLUMINATING CHRISTMAS TREE.]
# # #
Document No. 365381ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 12/2/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: FRIDAY, 12/4/92 COB
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE
SUBJECT:
THE ELLIPSE THURSDAY, 12/10 - 5:00 pm
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCBRIDE
BAKER
MOORE
SCOWCROFT
MULLINS
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BATES
PORTER
BRADY
PROVOST
BROMLEY
ROSS
CALIO
SMITH
DEMAREST
TUTWILER
FITZWATER
ZOELLICK
GRAY
MCGROARTY
HOLIDAY
FIRESTONE
HORNER
PORTER ROSE
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than COB, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
No Commists: you.
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Martin/Bunton
Dec. 2, 1992
11:15 a.m.
I DEC 2 All: 53
Draft One
STAR
PROPOSED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL
CHRISTMAS TREE
THE ELLIPSE
THURSDAY, DEC. 10, 1992
5:00 P.M.
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Children's Chorus of Maryland, actress
Lucie Arnaz; Lee Greenwood; actress Keshia Knight Pulliam;
Willard Scott; cast of "A Christmas Carol", and the U.S. Coast
Guard Band.]
Barbara and I are pleased all of you could join us this
evening. It's wonderful to look out there and see so many
smiling faces -- especially the little ones. It seems the kids
have their eyes trained on this stage -- some from box seats atop
their parent's shoulders and others teetering on their toes in
hopes of catching an unobstructed glimpse
...
of Santa Claus.
(You know, I ought to be used to this by now, for years I've been
upstaged by Barbara and her fan clubs, then Millie and her book,
and now Santa seems to be stealing the spotlight
...
or is
Willard Scott?)
There is something magical about the month of December. No
matter what our age, it takes us back to the days when we too
were children. You remember
when suits and ties were
considered strictly Sunday attire. And Barbara, remember what it
was like when you couldn't wait to grow up so you could spend all
day walking around in high heels? The passage of time has done
2
more than complicate our dress code -- it's complicated our
lives. It used to be that at this time of the year we had one
thought, one goal: to stay off the list that Ole St. Nick was
checking twice. Now we worry about the office, rush hour,
scheduling and
oh, yes, Christmas
baking, decorating,
making travel plans, mailing Christmas cards, and the age old
dilemma -- what to get the man who has everything.
We need to stop a minute and take a good look at the
children who surround us. This is their holiday. An entire
season dedicated to the impact of one child on the world. There
is a lesson to be learned from these kids. Look at what is most
important to them -- the people they love. And their love
extends beyond the immediate family to include friends,
neighbors, classmates -- yes, even teachers -- all without
conditions and preconceived notions.
Barbara and I want to dedicate this tree to the children of
America
for they are more than our future
they are
our present. They remind us that we must love one another in
order to achieve peace -- sibling rivalries not withstanding.
Which brings us to the smaller trees -- 57 of them -- The
Pageant of Peace. They are dedicated to the children of the
world who endure a lifetime's worth of pain and terror long
before their childhood has run its course. They are the children
of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the children of Somalia, the children
everywhere who live in fear and want. Our prayers are with them
3
and the ones they cherish
may their families be safe and the
fighting end soon.
And, my wish for you this holiday -- my apologies if this
sounds syrupy -- is a love that is young at heart. Let us look
at every child we encounter as an opportunity to reflect upon
unconditional acceptance. For the skeptics out there in the
audience -- stoics and scrooges alike -- let me remind you that
is not a new concept. After all, it was the Wise Men who sought
out the infant Jesus.
From Barbara and me and our entire family: We wish you all
a very Merry Christmas, a happy and healthy New Year and love
that will outshine this tree year round. God bless you all and
Merry Christmas.
[THROW SWITCH ILLUMINATING CHRISTMAS TREE.]
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
wASHINGTON
December 4, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAN McGROARTY
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Lighting of the National
Christmas Tree
We have reviewed the attached draft and have no suggested
changes from a policy standpoint. We approve of the draft
remarks in their current form.
CC: Phillip D. Brady
Document No. 365381ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 12/2/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: FRIDAY, 12/4/92 COB
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE
SUBJECT:
THE ELLIPSE - - THURSDAY, 12/10 - 5:00pm
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCBRIDE
BAKER
MOORE
SCOWCROFT
MULLINS
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BATES
PORTER
BRADY
PROVOST
BROMLEY
ROSS
CALIO
SMITH
DEMAREST
TUTWILER
FITZWATER
ZOELLICK
GRAY
MCGROARTY
HOLIDAY
FIRESTONE
HORNER
PORTER ROSE
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than COB, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Martin/Bunton
Dec. 2, 1992
11:15 a.m.
2 SEC 2 All: 53
Draft One
STAR
PROPOSED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL
CHRISTMAS TREE
THE ELLIPSE
THURSDAY, DEC. 10, 1992
5:00 P.M.
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Children's Chorus of Maryland, actress
Lucie Arnaz; Lee Greenwood; actress Keshia Knight Pulliam;
Willard Scott; cast of "A Christmas Carol", and the U.S. Coast
Guard Band.]
Barbara and I are pleased all of you could join us this
evening. It's wonderful to look out there and see so many
smiling faces -- especially the little ones. It seems the kids
have their eyes trained on this stage -- some from box seats atop
their parent's shoulders and others teetering on their toes in
hopes of catching an unobstructed glimpse
...
of Santa Claus.
(You know, I ought to be used to this by now, for years I've been
upstaged by Barbara and her fan clubs, then Millie and her book,
and now Santa seems to be stealing the spotlight
...
or is
Willard Scott?)
There is something magical about the month of December.
No
matter what our age, it takes us back to the days when we too
were children. You remember
...
when suits and ties were
considered strictly Sunday attire. And Barbara, remember what it
was like when you couldn't wait to grow up so you could spend all
day walking around in high heels? The passage of time has done
2
more than complicate our dress code -- it's complicated our
lives. It used to be that at this time of the year we had one
thought, one goal: to stay off the list that Ole St. Nick was
checking twice. Now we worry about the office, rush hour,
scheduling and
oh, yes, Christmas
baking, decorating,
making travel plans, mailing Christmas cards, and the age old
dilemma -- what to get the man who has everything.
We need to stop a minute and take a good look at the
children who surround us. This is their holiday. An entire
season dedicated to the impact of one child on the world. There
is a lesson to be learned from these kids. Look at what is most
important to them -- the people they love. And their love
extends beyond the immediate family to include friends,
neighbors, classmates -- yes, even teachers -- all without
conditions and preconceived notions.
Barbara and I want to dedicate this tree to the children of
America
for they are more than our future
they are
our present. They remind us that we must love one another in
order to achieve peace -- sibling rivalries not withstanding.
Which brings us to the smaller trees -- 57 of them -- The
Pageant of Peace. They are dedicated to the children of the
world who endure a lifetime's worth of pain and terror long
before their childhood has run its course. They are the children
of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the children of Somalia, the children
everywhere who live in fear and want. Our prayers are with them
3
and the ones they cherish
may their families be safe and the
fighting end soon.
And, my wish for you this holiday -- my apologies if this
sounds syrupy -- is a love that is young at heart. Let us look
at every child we encounter as an opportunity to reflect upon
unconditional acceptance. For the skeptics out there in the
audience -- stoics and scrooges alike -- let me remind you that
is not a new concept. After all, it was the Wise Men who sought
out the infant Jesus.
From Barbara and me and our entire family: We wish you all
a very Merry Christmas, a happy and healthy New Year and love
that will outshine this tree year round. God bless you all and
Merry Christmas.
[THROW SWITCH ILLUMINATING CHRISTMAS TREE.]
# # #
Martin/Bunton
Dec. 2, 1992
11:15 a.m.
Draft One
STAR
PROPOSED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL
CHRISTMAS TREE
THE ELLIPSE
THURSDAY, DEC. 10, 1992
5:00 P.M.
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Children's Chorus of Maryland, actress
Lucie Arnaz; Lee Greenwood; actress Keshia Knight Pulliam;
Willard Scott; cast of "A Christmas Carol", and the U.S. Coast
Guard Band.]
Barbara and I are pleased all of you could join us this
evening. It's wonderful to look out there and see so many
smiling faces -- especially the little ones. It seems the kids
have their eyes trained on this stage -- some from box seats atop
their parent's shoulders and others teetering on their toes in
hopes of catching an unobstructed glimpse
...
of Santa Claus.
(You know, I ought to be used to this by now, for years I've been
upstaged by Barbara and her fan clubs, then Millie and her book,
and now Santa seems to be stealing the spotlight
...
or is
Willard Scott?)
There is something magical about the month of December. No
matter what our age, it takes us back to the days when we too
were children. You remember
...
when suits and ties were
considered strictly Sunday attire. And Barbara, remember what it
was like when you couldn't wait to grow up so you could spend all
day walking around in high heels? The passage of time has done
2
more than complicate our dress code -- it's complicated our
lives. It used to be that at this time of the year we had one
thought, one goal: to stay off the list that Ole St. Nick was
checking twice. Now we worry about the office, rush hour,
scheduling and
oh, yes, Christmas
baking, decorating,
making travel plans, mailing Christmas cards, and the age old
dilemma -- what to get the man who has everything.
We need to stop a minute and take a good look at the
children who surround us. This is their holiday. An entire
season dedicated to the impact of one child on the world. There
is a lesson to be learned from these kids. Look at what is most
important to them -- the people they love. And their love
extends beyond the immediate family to include friends,
neighbors, classmates -- yes, even teachers -- all without
conditions and preconceived notions.
Barbara and I want to dedicate this tree to the children of
America
for they are more than our future
they are
our present. They remind us that we must love one another in
order to achieve peace -- sibling rivalries not withstanding.
Which brings us to the smaller trees -- 57 of them -- The
Pageant of Peace. They are dedicated to the children of the
world who endure a lifetime's worth of pain and terror long
before their childhood has run its course. They are the children
of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the children of Somalia, the children
everywhere who live in fear and want. Our prayers are with them
3
and the ones they cherish
may their families be safe and the
fighting end soon.
And, my wish for you this holiday -- my apologies if this
sounds syrupy -- is a love that is young at heart. Let us look
at every child we encounter as an opportunity to reflect upon
unconditional acceptance. For the skeptics out there in the
audience -- stoics and scrooges alike -- let me remind you that
is not a new concept. After all, it was the Wise Men who sought
out the infant Jesus.
From Barbara and me and our entire family: We wish you all
a very Merry Christmas, a happy and healthy New Year and love
that will outshine this tree year round. God bless you all and
Merry Christmas.
[THROW SWITCH ILLUMINATING CHRISTMAS TREE.]
# # #
Martin/Bunton
Dec. 2, 1992
11:15 a.m.
Draft One
STAR
PROPOSED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LIGHTING OF THE NATIONAL
CHRISTMAS TREE
THE ELLIPSE
THURSDAY, DEC. 10, 1992
5:00 P.M.
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Children's Chorus of Maryland, actress
Lucie Arnaz; Lee Greenwood; actress Keshia Knight Pulliam;
Willard Scott; cast of "A Christmas Carol", and the U.S. Coast
Guard Band.]
Barbara and I are pleased all of you could join us this
evening. It's wonderful to look out there and see so many
smiling faces -- especially the little ones. It seems the kids
have their eyes trained on this stage -- some from box seats atop
their parent's shoulders and others teetering on their toes in
hopes of catching an unobstructed glimpse
of Santa Claus.
(You know, I ought to be used to this by now, for years I've been
upstaged by Barbara and her fan clubs, then Millie and her book,
and now Santa seems to be stealing the spotlight
or is
Willard Scott?)
There is something magical about the month of December. No
matter what our age, it takes us back to the days when we too
were children. You remember
when suits and ties were
considered strictly Sunday attire. And Barbara, remember what it
was like when you couldn't wait to grow up so you could spend all
day walking around in high heels? The passage of time has done
2
more than complicate our dress code -- it's complicated our
lives. It used to be that at this time of the year we had one
thought, one goal: to stay off the list that Ole St. Nick was
checking twice. Now we worry about the office, rush hour,
scheduling and
oh, yes, Christmas
baking, decorating,
making travel plans, mailing Christmas cards, and the age old
dilemma -- what to get the man who has everything.
We need to stop a minute and take a good look at the
children who surround us. This is their holiday. An entire
season dedicated to the impact of one child on the world. There
is a lesson to be learned from these kids. Look at what is most
important to them -- the people they love. And their love
extends beyond the immediate family to include friends,
neighbors, classmates -- yes, even teachers -- all without
conditions and preconceived notions.
Barbara and I want to dedicate this tree to the children of
America
for they are more than our future
they are
our present. They remind us that we must love one another in
order to achieve peace -- sibling rivalries not withstanding.
Which brings us to the smaller trees -- 57 of them -- The
Pageant of Peace. They are dedicated to the children of the
world who endure a lifetime's worth of pain and terror long
before their childhood has run its course. They are the children
of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the children of Somalia, the children
everywhere who live in fear and want. Our prayers are with them
3
and the ones they cherish
may their families be safe and the
fighting end soon.
And, my wish for you this holiday -- my apologies if this
sounds syrupy -- is a love that is young at heart. Let us look
at every child we encounter as an opportunity to reflect upon
unconditional acceptance. For the skeptics out there in the
audience -- stoics and scrooges alike -- let me remind you that
is not a new concept. After all, it was the Wise Men who sought
out the infant Jesus.
From Barbara and me and our entire family: We wish you all
a very Merry Christmas, a happy and healthy New Year and love
that will outshine this tree year round. God bless you all and
Merry Christmas.
[THROW SWITCH ILLUMINATING CHRISTMAS TREE.]
# # #
Document No. 365240ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
12/1/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THUR. 12/3/92 NOON
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS IN WASHINGTON
SUBJECT:
PENSION BUILDING
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCBRIDE
BAKER
MOORE
SCOWCROFT
MULLINS
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BATES
PORTER
BRADY
PROVOST
BROMLEY
ROSS
CALIO
SMITH
DEMAREST
TUTWILER
FITZWATER
ZOELLICK
MCGROARTY
GRAY
HOLIDAY
PORTER ROSE
HORNER
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than NOON, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, with a copy to this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Aarhus
November 24, 1992
2
DEC
/
P5:
10
A: CMAS
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
CHRISTMAS IN WASHINGTON
PENSION BUILDING
TAPING DATE???
To all the performers -- Julie, Peabo, Midori, Neil, the
Army's Herald Trumpets, and these two magnificent choirs: Soul
Children of Chicago, and the Naval Academy Glee Club -- what a
glorious performance! From the Bush family, and on behalf of all
those watching this evening, thank you for sharing your wonderful
gift of music with us.
The Christmas season reminds me of a favorite Bible verse,
which reads, "Though I have the tongues of men and angels, but
have not love, I am nothing
So faith, hope, love, abide these
three; but the greatest of these is love."
This holiday season is a special time for all of us to open
our hearts just a little wider. You won't find the meaning of
Christmas on a shelf at the toy store, or under your tree on
Christmas morning. The real meaning of Christmas is sharing the
love in your heart and the joy in your soul. Giving of yourself
is the best gift anyone can ask for.
So, in all the preparations for this festive holiday season,
take a moment to celebrate, in your own way, God's gift to us --
his son, the Lord, Jesus Christ. Help a neighbor in need
take
a hot meal to a homeless shelter
make sure every child has
someone they can turn to
someone who knows their name. It
takes just a moment to care, and the rewards will sustain your
spirits for a lifetime.
May God bless each and every one of you, and may He grant us
everlasting peace. Merry Christmas.
# # # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
December 10, 1992
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
IN NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE-LIGHTING CEREMONY
The Ellipse
Washington, DC
5:50 P.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you, Joe, for being the President
of the Christmas Pageant of Peace. And may I salute Lucy Arnaz and
Lee Greenwood, Keshia Knight Pulliam; the world's greatest
weatherman, who missed it tonight, Willard Scott; the Children's
Chorus of Maryland; the cast of A Christmas Carol -- great of them to
come down. And, of course, the U.S. Coast Guard Band.
And Barbara and I are very pleased that all of you could
be here tonight. It's wonderful to see so many smiling faces in
spite of the adversity. It's especially wonderful to see the
children. And this is their holiday, an entire season dedicated to
the impact of one child on the world. And there's a lesson to be
learned from these young people here. Look at what's most important
to them -- the people they love.
And Barbara and I want to dedicate this Christmas tree
to the children of America, for they are more than our future, they
are our present, and they remind us that we must love one another in
order to achieve peace. We must love another. And our prayers are
with them and the ones they cherish.
And may I simply say, let us think of the children of
Somalia, too, the children everywhere who live in fear and want. And
our prayers are with them. And may their families be safe and
fighting -- the sporadic fighting over there -- end soon.
And let us also say a special prayer for our Armed
Forces who are doing their duty, vindicating the values of America --
(applause) -- and the spirit of Christmas in this far-off land. We
salute them and their selfless devotion to country.
And for Barbara and me and from our entire family, we
wish you all a Merry Christmas, a happy and healthy New Year, and
love that will outshine this tree year-round.
God bless you all, and God bless our great country, the
United States of America. Merry Christmas. (Applause.)
END
5:54 P.M. EST