Concert: Carol Rasco 10.16.95

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT 15-Sep-1995 11:15am TO: (See Below) FROM: Carol H. Rasco Economic and Domestic Policy SUBJECT: October 16 concert When Joe Califano had lunch with POTUS on July 7 he mentioned the October 16 concert in Los Angeles called "Concert of Hope" which will then be telecast nationwide by CBS on Dec. 1 which is coincidentally World AIDS Day. The President indicated more than a passing interest. It is my understanding that scheduling has previously received a request for POTUS to appear at the concert. I now have from Califano a memo to the President that I am routing to you that discusses the concert more. I want to strongly urge we look at this very seriously to accept even if all we can do is request of Califano that POTUS be allowed to tape a video for the closing and perhaps even just show the video when it goes on TV Dec. 1 if they don't want a video at the concert itself. I have several reasons for urging this: 1. CBS will do and have their affiliates do substance abuse stories and features in the week preceeding the concert showing Dec. 1. We need to be a part of this national focus. 2. On the evening of the Dec. 1 showing over 3500 communities are already signed up to have big gatherings watch it together and honor providers and individuals in their communities who work on the substance abuse issue. 3. Because the President will be out of the country Dec. 1 we need a venue for him to say something about AIDS since it is World AIDS Day. Califano is perfectly willing for POTUS to mention AIDS in his remarks. 4. The honorary chairs are the former Presidents/First Ladies. Betty Ford is to be given an award along with former Disney President Frank Wells (posthumously) and Tonn Bennett. Having President Clinton speak puts us in there with the identifiable Ford/Nancy Reagan issue.