Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, January 12, 2004 Volume 40—Number 2 Pages 15–52

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Addresses and Remarks Communications to Federal Agencies— Florida, Bush-Cheney reception in Palm Continued Beach Gardens—38 Services under the Foreign Assistance Act Immigration reform—25 and the Arms Export Control Act, Missouri memorandum—23 Bush-Cheney reception in St. Louis—19 Safety, Health, and Return-to-Employment Pierre Laclede Elementary School in St. (SHARE) Initiative, memorandum—50 Louis—16 Notices National Catholic Educational Association—47 Radio address—15 Continuation of the National Emergency With Tennessee Respect to Libya—23 Bush-Cheney luncheon in Knoxville—33 Statements by the President West View Elementary School in Knoxville—28 Afghanistan’s adoption of a new constitution— Women small-business owners, discussion—42 16 Representative Ralph M. Hall’s joining the Communications to Congress Republican Party—15 Libya, letter on continuation of national Supplementary Materials emergency—24 Acts approved by the President—52 Checklist of White House press releases—52 Communications to Federal Agencies Digest of other White House Eligibility of the Regional Security System announcements—50 (RSS) to Receive Defense Articles and Nominations submitted to the Senate—52

Editor’s Note: The President was at the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX, on January 9, the closing date of this issue. Releases and announcements issued by the Office of the Press Secretary but not received in time for inclusion in this issue will be printed next week.

WEEKLY COMPILATION OF Distribution is made only by the Superintendent of Docu- PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS ments, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents will be furnished by mail to domestic subscribers for $80.00 per year Published every Monday by the Office of the Federal Reg- ($137.00 for mailing first class) and to foreign subscribers for ister, National Archives and Records Administration, Washing- $93.75 per year, payable to the Superintendent of Documents, ton, DC 20408, the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The ments contains statements, messages, and other Presidential charge for a single copy is $3.00 ($3.75 for foreign mailing). materials released by the White House during the preceding The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is also week. available on the Internet on the GPO Access service at http:// The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is pub- www.gpo.gov/nara/nara003.html. lished pursuant to the authority contained in the Federal Reg- ister Act (49 Stat. 500, as amended; 44 U.S.C. Ch. 15), under There are no restrictions on the republication of material regulations prescribed by the Administrative Committee of the appearing in the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- Federal Register, approved by the President (37 FR 23607; ments. 1 CFR Part 10).

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Statement on Representative For the past 24 months, schools and State Ralph M. Hall’s Joining the Governments have been putting the new re- Republican Party forms into action. All 50 States, plus the Dis- trict of Columbia and Puerto Rico, have January 2, 2004 drawn up plans to hold every public school I welcome Congressman Ralph Hall to the accountable for student achievement. We’re Republican Party. Ralph is a close friend of measuring results. We’re giving teachers the the Bush family. He is a well-respected lead- information they need to improve instruction er of the highest integrity and a tireless advo- and giving parents new options to help their cate for the people of Texas. We have worked children when schools do not measure up. closely together on the important challenges We have recently received test results that facing our Nation. I strongly support his re- show America’s children are making election. progress. In 2003, math scores for fourth graders nationwide were nine points higher than in 2000. Math scores for eighth graders NOTE: This item was not received in time for pub- lication in the appropriate issue. improved by five points. And a higher per- centage of fourth graders tested at or above their grade level in reading. The President’s Radio Address To mark the anniversary of the No Child January 3, 2004 Left Behind Act, I will travel this coming week to schools in St. Louis, Missouri, and Good morning. Two years ago this month, Knoxville, Tennessee. Children at these I signed into law the No Child Left Behind schools once struggled, but in recent years, Act, the most important reform of public they have risen to meet our new standards. education in a generation. Their example shows that high expectations, In that landmark law, we made our expec- a commitment to measuring achievement, tations clear: Every child in America will and a belief in every child can change lives learn to read, write, add, and subtract at and turn schools around. grade level. Schools are now required to test Some critics have objected to these re- children regularly to make sure students are forms because they believe our expectations learning and that schools are teaching well. are too high or that it is unfair to hold all And when schools do not show progress students to the same standards regardless of toward high standards, we’re giving parents background or that we’re punishing schools better options, including tutoring for their that are not making progress. But the time children or a transfer to a better public for excuses has passed. Our reforms insist on school. Above all, the No Child Left Behind high standards because we know every child Act required a change in attitude from the can learn. Our reforms call for testing be- educators and public officials responsible for cause the worst discrimination is to ignore our schools. a school’s failure to teach every child. And We will no longer write off some children our reforms identify underperforming as hopeless. We will no longer accept or ex- schools because we need to direct our help cuse schools that do not effectively teach the to the schools that need it most. basics. We will insist on high standards and In 2003, we provided $234 million to assist accountability because we believe that every the lowest performing schools that need the school should teach and every child can most improvement. In 2004, we plan to more learn. than double that amount. We have increased

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Federal funding for elementary and high Remarks in a Discussion at Pierre school education from about $25 billion in Laclede Elementary School in 2001 to more than $33 billion in 2003, an St. Louis, Missouri increase of about 36 percent and the highest level ever. January 5, 2004 We’ve committed $1.8 billion in grants to The President. Well, I’m glad to be here, help train tens of thousands of teachers to Madam Principal. [Laughter] One of the use effective reading instruction methods things you find in a successful school is a and materials. We expect schools to do their strong-willed, smart, capable principal. And job, and we’re helping them to do their job. that’s obviously the case here, and I appre- So there’s no excuse for failure. When we ciate your hospitality. set a high standard, we are showing our belief I’m here at Laclede because this is a school in the capacities of every child. And when that has defied expectations. It’s defied ex- we prepare them to meet a high standard, pectations by raising the bar and believing we’re giving them a better chance in life. that every child can learn. That’s not the case High expectations set children on a path to in some parts of our country, unfortunately. success. I’m pleased to report that the No In some parts of the country, schools just Child Left Behind Act is helping put more shuffle kids through, and that’s not right. of America’s children on that path, so they That’s not the American way. succeed in school and in life. This school is a school that has performed, Thank you for listening. you have to say, brilliantly. Since 1999, 7 per- cent of the kids could read, and now 80 per- cent can read at grade level in the third NOTE: The address was recorded at 9:55 a.m. on grade. That speaks to strong principals; it January 2 at the Bush Ranch in Crawford, TX, speaks to really good teachers. It says this for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. on January 3. The tran- school has got teachers that believe in the script was made available by the Office of the capability of every child. It says the school Press Secretary on January 2 but was embargoed has raised standards and is not afraid to for release until the broadcast. The Office of the measure. Press Secretary also released a Spanish language transcript of this address. And see, one of the things I’m here to talk about is the No Child Left Behind Act. Laclede has been named a No Child Left— Statement on Afghanistan’s Adoption Blue Ribbon No Child Left Behind School. of a New Constitution And the—inherent in this No Child Left Be- hind Act is the desire to spend Federal January 4, 2004 money and spend it wisely. We’ve increased budgets. The Title I money is up 43 percent I congratulate the people of Afghanistan since 2001—41 percent. The teacher training on the adoption of their new constitution. money is up. The reading program money This document lays the foundation for demo- is up by 4 times. But finally, the Federal Gov- cratic institutions and provides a framework ernment has said, ‘‘Why don’t you show us for national elections in 2004. A democratic whether or not that money is being well- Afghanistan will serve the interests and just spent. Show us whether or not you believe aspirations of all of the Afghan people and every child can learn. Show us whether or help ensure that terror finds no further ref- not objectives are being met.’’ uge in that proud land. This new constitution And this is exactly what’s happening here marks a historic step forward, and we will at Laclede. As I was reminded, Laclede was continue to assist the Afghan people as they doing this before No Child Left Behind Act build a free and prosperous future. was passed. Joyce was quick to point it out.

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[Laughter] She may point it out again. count, when you empower your teachers and [Laughter] your principals to achieve the objective we But the important thing is, inherent in the all want. And that’s to make sure no child, No Child Left Behind Act was not only the not one single child in America, is left be- desire to measure, the need to measure, the hind. need to show, the need to track each child, I’m honored to be here at this Blue Ribbon but it’s also the trust of local people to make School. And I appreciate your time, and I the right decisions. See, you can’t have a sys- look forward to hearing from you. tem that is—meets objectives if you’re ham- At this point, the discussion continued. strung by Federal rules and regulations. And [ ] so, inherent in the No Child Left Behind Act The President. Yes, you are. Listen, one is trust, trust of the principals, trust of the of the things you hear, of course, is that you teachers, trust of the parents, trust of the can’t test kids, see. You can’t test. We test local officials, like Speaker Hanaway and too much. How do you know if a child isn’t Peter Kinder from the State house and State reading if you don’t test? How do you know senate who are with us. I want to thank you who needs help? I mean, if the idea is to for coming, by the way. make sure not one child is left behind, you I appreciate all the State officials who are better test. here. I know we’ve got some school board The test isn’t a punishment, you know. It’s officials. You’ve got the ball in our—in terms not to punish anybody. The test is to deter- of how to achieve excellence. It’s up to you. mine who needs extra help. And that’s exactly The Federal Government is a source of why Laclede is doing well, I’m convinced, money. It’s now a source of inspiration. It’s or one of the main reasons why. They’ve got a source of measurement. But it’s up to the a book here that says, ‘‘Every child matters. local people to really make it work. Every child can learn, and therefore we’re I also appreciate so very much that Senator going to measure as to whether or not we’re Jim Talent is with us. Senator, thank you for meeting expectations for every child, not a coming. Congresswoman Jo Ann Emerson few of the children but every child.’’ and Kenny Hulshof, and of course, Congress- And so when you hear this talk about test- man Lacy Clay, whose district we are in. ing, testing is bad, testing is—you know, Congressman, thank you very much for join- teach the test, what testing is—what testing ing us today. does and what measuring does is determines I went into a classroom of fourth graders. whether or not every child is learning, and I asked this question, I said, ‘‘How many of if not, whether that child is getting the help you are going to go to college?’’ You’ll be he or she needs early, before it is too late. happy to hear that every hand went up. We’ve got to stop this business about just That’s a good sign. They were also doing shuffling kids through the schools in Amer- something that was fundamentally important. ica. We’ve got to stop social promotion and They were practicing their reading. I also focus on whether or not each child is getting asked the question, ‘‘How many of you read the instruction he or she needs, and that’s more than you watch TV?’’ About 50 percent exactly what this book says, and that’s why of the hands went up. [Laughter] I’m here at Laclede to tout this program, be- But what’s important is for schools like— cause you’re making great sense. around the country to understand what’s The discussion continued. happening here, and that is that the people [ ] here use reading programs based upon what The President. Yes, I think it’s important. works, not what sounds good, reading pro- The Federal Government can help, and we grams based upon the science of reading. have. I think we’ve increased the teacher And it’s working. training and recruitment budget significantly, And so I’m here to congratulate this school like by about 40 percent since 2001. And and to really hold you up for the Nation to that’s important to make sure teachers have see what is possible when you raise the bar, the skills necessary to be able to teach. I when you’re not afraid to hold people to ac- mean, it’s one thing to have a good heart;

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it’s another thing to be able to have the skills you hear at Laclede, why don’t you volun- necessary to put—to match the good heart teer? Why don’t you help and mentor a child with the capacity to pass on knowledge. how to read? Why don’t you join us all in And so the Federal Government is helping changing America one child at a time? on teacher recruitment, teacher training, and And so, Jeff, I want to thank you for com- that’s an important aspect of the No Child ing. I want to thank you for the example you Left Behind Act. It’s essential that we con- have set for others in the community of St. tinue to monitor what works, whether the Louis, and hope that others will follow your curriculum you’re using makes sense—that’s example. And a great place to start to volun- what measurement helps a school to under- teer is to show up at a local public school stand—and whether or not a teacher needs and ask the principal what you can do to help a little extra help in order to be able to impart change a child’s life. the knowledge that he or she is desirous of So thank you for reminding me about the doing. importance of being a good mom and a great I know we’ve got a parent here. By the volunteer as well. way, the first teacher of any child is a mom Listen, making sure every child learns to and a dad. And it’s—this parent right here read and making sure every child is educated is a good teacher. Thank you for being here. is a—the number one domestic priority of this country. It is essential we get it right. [The discussion continued.] Laclede Elementary School shatters The President. Speaking about volun- stereotypes. It shows that we can have excel- teers, one of the really true strengths of our lence in every single classroom across this country is the heart and soul of the American country, that it’s not just suburban America people. Today with us—I met a fellow at the where we find excellence. You can find excel- airport who is now with us here today. His lence in inner-city America. You find excel- name is Jeff Tank. Probably never heard of lence in rural America. You find excellence Jeff. He is a volunteer with Big Brothers and where you’ve got great principals and teach- Big Sisters. January happens to be National ers and leadership willing to raise the stand- Mentoring Month. ards, willing to challenge every child, because Where are you, Jeff? There he is. Jeff, by you believe in every child. You find excel- the way, when I went to the airport, he said, lence where you’re willing to measure and ‘‘This isn’t about recognition, recognizing then correct when things aren’t going the me.’’ I said, ‘‘Yes, it is, because you represent way they should. You find excellence when a lot of other good people who are taking you’ve got skilled teachers carrying around time out of your lives to make a difference a book that measures the ability of each child, in a child’s life.’’ not a collection of children but every child, Schools need volunteers. Schools need and so that you can then qualify the cur- mentors. Big Brothers and Big Sisters is a riculum to meet the needs of that child. fabulous program that provides that kind And I am here for the simple reason to of—that provides that kind of mentoring and show what is possible all across America. And help. Whether you’re the superintendent of what is possible is to take reading scores from schools or the chairman of the school board 7 percent to 80 percent in places like St. or the President, we all need to be out en- Louis, Missouri, and elsewhere. I want to couraging people to volunteer. congratulate you for setting the standard. I always say that part of ushering in a era And keep raising the bar. Make sure that of personal responsibility means that people other 20 percent gets up to grade level at have to be responsible for the commu- third grade—I know you will—and you will nities—for the schools in the community in have done your duty as educators and Ameri- which they live. You just can’t trust that some cans to make sure that our children, the very faraway Government is going to make the future of the country, have got the capacity correct decisions for the local communities. to succeed in the greatest land on the face And if you’re interested in the quality of edu- of the Earth. cation and you’re paying attention to what Thank you all for coming. God bless.

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NOTE: The President spoke at 2:33 p.m. In his I appreciate so very much Senator Kit remarks, he referred to Yolanda Moss, principal, Bond’s leadership in the United States Sen- and Regina Davis, parent and volunteer, Pierre ate. I also appreciate a short introduction. Laclede Elementary School; Joyce Roberts, exec- [Laughter] I also want to thank my friend utive director, Middle School and Priority School Education, St. Louis Public Schools, and former Senator Jim Talent as well for doing a great principal, Pierre Laclede Elementary School; job for the people of Missouri. I’m pleased Catherine Hanaway, speaker, Missouri State that Congresswoman Jo Ann Emerson is with house of representatives; and Peter Kinder, presi- us tonight as well as Kenny Hulshof, two fine dent pro tempore, Missouri State senate. He also Members of the United States Congress referred to Title I of the Improving America’s from Missouri. Schools Act of 1994 (Public Law No. 103–382), I know the secretary of state is with us, which amended Title I of the Elementary and Matt Blunt. Thank you for coming, Matt. I’m Secondary Education Act of 1965 (Public Law No. proud you’re here. I appreciate the speaker 89–10). coming, Catherine Hanaway, as well as Sen- ate Majority Leader Peter Kinder. Thank you Remarks at a Bush-Cheney all for coming. I want to thank all the mem- Reception in St. Louis bers of the statehouse for being here and the local officials. I’m so honored you take time January 5, 2004 to come. Thank you all very much. Thanks for com- I particularly want to thank my friend Sam ing. Thank you all. Thanks for your warm Fox, who is the State finance chairman for welcome. I appreciate such a warm response. Bush-Cheney. I’m honored that Sam has I appreciate such a huge crowd. It’s great taken on such a big role, and I appreciate to be back here in St. Louis. I don’t know the hard work of Sam and the team he has if you know this or not, but my grandmother put together to make this such a strong and was raised right here in St. Louis. And I’ve successful event. I call him Foxie. Foxie, got a lot of relatives here. By the way, if thanks for your friendship. you’re looking for a great uncle, model some- I also appreciate Ann Wagner from the body after Bucky Bush. great State of Missouri. She’s the cochairman This record-setting event really means of the Republican National Committee. I’m we’re laying the foundation for what is going proud to have her friendship and proud to to be a victory in the State of Missouri in have her support here as the chairman of the November of 2004 and a nationwide victory party in Missouri. in 2004. I want to thank all the event orga- I want to thank Ambassador Steve Brauer nizers. I want to thank those of you who are and his wife, Kimmy. By the way, they did in the grassroots. I want to thank you for a fabulous job representing our country over- working hard. I want to thank you for what seas, and I want to thank them for their hard you’re going to do. work at this event. The political season is going to come in I know my friend former Senator Jack its own time. I admit I’m loosening up— Danforth is here. I named him to a special [laughter]—and I’m getting ready. But right mission, to be the envoy to the Sudan, and now, I’m focused on the people’s business. he has done incredibly good work in that war- See, I have a lot on the agenda. I want you ravaged country. I appreciate your service, to remind your fellow citizens that I will con- Jack, and your friendship. tinue to work hard to earn the confidence But most of all, I thank you all for coming. of all Americans by keeping this Nation se- It lifts my spirits to see so many people here. cure and strong and prosperous and free. It is—it gives me great confidence that we’re My one regret tonight is that Laura isn’t on the path to victory, to know that I’ve got here. She is a fabulous lady. She’s a great such broad support in this important State First Lady for our country. She is a wonder- of Missouri. ful wife, a great mother, and she’s doing a In the last 3 years, our Nation has acted heck of a job on behalf of the American peo- decisively to confront great challenges. I ple. came to this office to solve problems instead

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of passing them on to future Presidents and ity is increasing. And we’ve added 300,000 future generations. I came to seize opportu- new jobs over the last 4 months. The tax re- nities instead of letting them slip away. My lief we passed is working. administration is meeting the tests of our Three years ago, there was a lot of talk time. about education reform, but there wasn’t Terrorists declared war on the United much action. So I called for and the Congress States of America, and war is what they got. passed the No Child Left Behind Act. With We’ve captured or killed many of the key a solid bipartisan majority, we delivered the leaders of the Al Qaida network, and the rest most dramatic education reforms in a genera- of them know we’re on their trail. In Afghani- tion. We’re bringing high standards and stan and in Iraq, we gave ultimatums to ter- strong accountability measures to every pub- ror regimes. Those regimes chose defiance, lic school in America. See, we believe every and those regimes are no more. Fifty-million child—every child—can learn the basics of people in those two countries once lived reading and math, and we expect every under tyranny, and now they live in freedom. school to teach the basics of reading and Three years ago, our military was not re- math. This administration is challenging the ceiving the resources it needed, and morale soft bigotry of low expectations. The days of was beginning to suffer. So we increased the excusemaking are over. We expect results so defense budgets to prepare for the threats that not one single child is left behind in of a new era. And today, no one in the world America. can question the skill and the strength and We reorganized the Government and cre- the spirit of the United States military. ated the Department of Homeland Security Three years ago, the economy was in trou- to better safeguard our borders and ports and ble, and a recession was beginning. And then to protect the American people. We passed our country was attacked, and we had scan- trade promotion authority to open up new dals in corporate America and the march to war, all of which affected the people’s con- markets for Missouri’s farmers and ranchers fidence. But we acted. We passed tough new and entrepreneurs and manufacturers. We laws to hold corporate criminals to account. passed budget agreements that is helping to And to get the economy going again, I have maintain much needed spending discipline twice led the United States Congress to pass in Washington, DC. historic tax relief for the American people. And last month, we completed the greatest We understand that when Americans have advance in health care coverage for Amer- more take-home pay to spend, to save, or ica’s seniors since the founding of Medicare. invest, the whole economy grows, and people The new Medicare law will give older Ameri- are likely to find a job. We are returning cans the option of a prescription drug benefit more money to the people to help them raise and more control over their health care, so their families. We’re reducing taxes on divi- they receive the modern medical care they dends and capital gains to encourage invest- deserve. ment. We’ve given small businesses incen- On issue after issue, this administration tives to expand and to hire new people. With has acted on principle, has kept its word, and all these actions, we are laying the foundation has made progress for the American people. for greater prosperity and more jobs across The United States Congress deserves a lot America so every single person in this coun- of credit. I enjoy my relationship with Speak- try has the chance to realize the American er Denny Hastert and Leader Bill Frist. Dream. These are two strong, fine leaders. Today, the American economy is strong, I appreciate working with the Members, and it is getting stronger. The figures for the the Senators from the State of Missouri and third quarter of 2003 show the economy grew the Members of the House of Representa- at an annual rate of 8.2 percent, the fastest tives. We’re working hard to change the tone pace in nearly 20 years. Productivity is high. in Washington, DC. There’s too much need- Business investment is rising. Housing con- less politics and endless backbiting, and the struction is expanding. Manufacturing activ- best way to change the tone is to focus on

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results, to be results-oriented people, to de- have to face them in our own country. We’re liver progress on behalf of all Americans. And calling on other nations to help build a free those are the kind of people I’ve attracted Iraq, because a free Iraq will make the whole to my administration. world more secure. We’re standing with the I’ve put together the finest administration Iraqi people as they assume more of their of any President in our Nation’s history, own defense and move toward self-govern- good, honorable, decent, hard-working peo- ment. These aren’t easy tasks, but they’re es- ple who have come to Washington, DC, to sential tasks. We will finish what we have serve a cause greater than their own self-in- begun, and we will win this essential victory terest. Our country has had no finer Vice in the war on terror. President than Dick Cheney. Mother may We’re working hard to oppose prolifera- have a second opinion. [Laughter] tion around the world. Last month, after talks In 3 years, we’ve come far. We have done with the United States and Great Britain, a lot, but our work is only beginning. I’ve Libya voluntarily committed to disclose and set great goals worthy of a great nation. First, dismantle all its weapons of mass destruction America is committed to expanding the programs. Leaders around the world now realm of freedom and peace for our own se- know weapons of mass destruction do not curity and for the benefit of the world. And bring influence or prestige; they bring isola- second, in our own country, we must work tion and unwelcome consequences. And na- for a society that is prosperous and compas- tions who abandon the pursuit of these weap- sionate so that every citizen has a chance to ons will find an open path to better relations work and to succeed and to realize the great with the United States of America. promise of our country. Our greatest security comes from the ad- It is clear that the future of freedom and vance of human liberty because free nations peace depend on the actions of America. This do not support terror, free nations do not Nation is freedom’s home and freedom’s de- attack their neighbors, free nations do not fender. We welcome this charge of history, threaten the world with weapons of mass ter- and we are keeping it. ror. Americans believe that freedom is the The war on terror continues. The enemies deepest need and hope of every human of freedom are not idle, and neither are we. heart. I believe that freedom is the future This country will not rest; we will not tire; of every nation. And we know that freedom we will not stop until this danger to civiliza- is not America’s gift to the world. Freedom tion is removed. is God’s gift to every man and woman who We are confronting that danger in Iraq, lives in this world. where all people can be certain they will America also understands that unprece- never again have to fear the rule of Saddam dented influence brings tremendous respon- Hussein. The Ba’athist holdouts, largely re- sibilities. We have duties in this world, and sponsible for the current violence, now know when we see disease and starvation and there will be no return to the corrupt power hopeless poverty, we will not turn away. On and privilege they once held. All Iraqis who the continent of Africa, this great country is have taken the side of freedom have taken now committed to bringing the healing the winning side. power of medicine to millions of men and We still face terrorists who would rather women and children now suffering with go on killing the innocent than accept the AIDS. This great, compassionate land is lead- rise of liberty in the Middle East. They know ing the world in this incredibly important that the advance of freedom in Iraq would work of human rescue. be a major defeat for the cause of terror. We face challenges here at home, and our This collection of killers is trying to shake actions will prove that we’re equal to those the will of the United States, but America challenges. My administration will stay fo- will never be intimidated by a bunch of assas- cused on a progrowth agenda until everyone sins and thugs. who wants to work can find a job. We are aggressively striking the terrorists And for the sake of our health care system, in Iraq, defeating them there so we will never we need to cut down on the frivolous lawsuits

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which increase the cost of medicine. People Congress should complete the ‘‘Citizen who get harmed by a bad doc deserve their Service Act’’ so more Americans can serve day in court. Yet the system should not re- their communities and their country. Both ward lawyers who are simply fishing for a houses should reach agreement on my Faith- rich settlement. Because frivolous lawsuits Based Initiative, so we can better support the drive up the cost of health care, they affect armies of compassion, people of all faiths the Federal budget. Therefore, medical li- who are willing to lead with their heart and ability reform is a national issue that requires help solve the problems that seem intractable a national solution. The House of Represent- in our society. We need to support those sol- atives passed a good bill to reform the sys- diers in the armies of compassion who are tem. The bill is stuck in the United States mentoring the children, caring for the home- Senate. I want to thank the two Missouri less, and offering hope for the addicted. This Senators for supporting this incredibly im- Nation must not fear the influence of faith portant piece of legislation. Other Members in our society. We must welcome the works of the Senate must understand that no one of faith in our society. has ever been healed by a frivolous lawsuit A compassionate society must promote op- in America. portunity for every one of us, including the I have a responsibility as President to make independence and dignity that come from sure the judicial system runs well, and I have ownership. My administration will constantly met that duty. I have nominated superb men strive to promote an ownership society in and women for the Federal courts, people America. We want more people owning their who will interpret the law, not legislate from own home. We have a minority homeowner- the bench. Some Members of the Senate are ship gap in America. I want to thank the Sen- trying to keep my nominees off the bench ate for passing the downpayment assistance by blocking up-or-down votes. Every judicial plan to help more people afford a new home. nominee deserves a fair hearing and an up- We want people owning and managing their or-down vote on the Senate floor. It is time own retirement accounts and owning and for some of the Members of the United managing their own health care accounts. We States Senate to stop playing politics with want more people to own their own small American justice. business. This administration understands The Congress needs to complete work on that when a person owns something, he or a comprehensive energy bill and get it to my she has a vital stake in the future of this coun- desk. This Nation must promote energy effi- try. ciency and conservation. We must work to In a compassionate society, people respect develop cleaner technology to help us ex- one another, respect another person’s reli- plore for energy in environmentally sensitive gion and their point of view. And people take ways. For the sake of economic security and responsibility for the decisions they make. for the sake of national security, we need to The culture of America is changing from one become less dependent on foreign sources that has said, ‘‘If it feels good, do it,’’ and of energy. ‘‘If you’ve got a problem, blame somebody Our strong and prosperous Nation must else,’’ to a culture in which each of us under- also be a compassionate nation. I will con- stands we are responsible for the decisions tinue to advance our agenda of compas- we make in life. sionate conservatism, applying the best and If you’re fortunate enough to be a mother most innovative ideas to the task of helping or a dad, you’re responsible for loving your our fellow citizens in need. child with all your heart. If you’re worried There are still millions of men and women about the quality of the education in the who want to end their dependence on the community in which you live, you’re respon- Government and become independent sible for doing something about it. If you’re through hard work. We must continue to a CEO in corporate America, you are respon- build on the successes of welfare reform to sible for telling the truth to your shareholders bring work and dignity into the lives of more and your employees. And in the responsi- of our fellow citizens. bility society, each of us is responsible for

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loving a neighbor just like we’d like to be Memorandum on Eligibility of the loved ourselves. Regional Security System (RSS) To We can see the culture of service and re- Receive Defense Articles and sponsibility growing around us. I started Services Under the Foreign what’s called the USA Freedom Corps to en- Assistance Act and the Arms Export courage Americans to extend a compas- Control Act sionate hand to a neighbor in need, and the response has been incredibly strong. People January 5, 2004 are serving our Nation by helping somebody Presidential Determination No. 2004–20 who hurts. You know, the great fabric of America ex- Memorandum for the Secretary of State ists at the community level, where civic Subject: Eligibility of the Regional Security groups are formed to put—reach out a hand System (RSS) to Receive Defense Articles to someone in need. It’s really one of the and Services under the Foreign Assistance great strengths of our country. Policemen Act and the Arms Export Control Act and firefighters and people who wear our Na- tion’s uniform remind us on a daily basis what Consistent with the provisions of section it means to sacrifice for something greater 503(a) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, than ourselves. Once again, the children of as amended, and section 3(a)(1) of the Arms America believe in heroes, because they see Export Control Act, I hereby find that the them every day. furnishing of defense articles and services to the RSS will strengthen the security of the In these challenging times, the world has United States and promote world peace. seen the resolve and the courage of America, You are authorized and directed to report and I have been privileged to see the com- this finding to the Congress and to publish passion and the character of the American it in the Federal Register. people. All the tests of the last 3 years have come to the right nation. We’re a strong George W. Bush country, and we use our strength to defend the peace. We’re an optimistic country, con- fident in ourselves and in ideals bigger than Notice—Continuation of the ourselves. National Emergency With Respect to Abroad, we seek to lift up whole nations Libya by spreading freedom. At home, we seek to January 5, 2004 lift up lives by spreading opportunity to every corner of America. This is the work that his- On January 7, 1986, by Executive Order tory has set before us. We welcome it, and 12543, President Reagan declared a national emergency to deal with the unusual and ex- we know that for our country, the best days traordinary threat to the national security and lie ahead. foreign policy of the United States con- May God bless you all. stituted by the actions and policies of the Government of Libya. On January 8, 1986, NOTE: The President spoke at 5:50 p.m. at Amer- by Executive Order 12544, the President ica’s Center. In his remarks, he referred to Wil- took additional measures to block Libyan as- liam H.T. ‘‘Bucky’’ Bush, Missouri State chairman, sets in the United States. The President has Bush-Cheney ’04, Inc.; Missouri Secretary of State transmitted a notice continuing this emer- Matt Blunt; Catherine Hanaway, speaker, Mis- gency to the Congress and the Federal Reg- souri State house of representatives; Peter Kinder, ister every year since 1986. president pro tempore, Missouri State senate; Ste- The crisis between the United States and phen Brauer, former U.S. Ambassador to Bel- Libya that led to the declaration of a national gium, and his wife, Camilla; former Senator John emergency on January 7, 1986, has not been Danforth, Special Envoy for Peace in the Sudan; and former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. fully resolved, although there have been some positive developments.

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On September 12, 2003, the United Na- be published in the Federal Register and tions Security Council adopted Resolution transmitted to the Congress. 1506 (UNSCR 1506), ending the United Na- tions sanctions against Libya. These U.N. George W. Bush sanctions were imposed in 1992 and 1993 as The White House, a result of Libyan involvement in the terrorist January 5, 2004. bombings of Pan Am 103 in 1988 and UTA 772 in 1989, and included travel restrictions, [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, an arms embargo, and financial sanctions. 1:13 p.m., January 5, 2004] The UNSCR 1506 lifted these sanctions after Libya addressed the requirements of the rel- NOTE: This notice was published in the Federal evant UNSC Resolutions, including accept- Register on January 6. ing responsibility for the actions of its offi- cials in the Pan Am 103 attack and arranging to compensate the families of the victims. Letter to Congressional Leaders on The United States abstained from voting on Continuation of the National the lifting of U.N. sanctions, and it made Emergency With Respect to Libya clear that it continued to have serious con- January 5, 2004 cerns about other Libyan policies and ac- tions, including Libya’s pursuit of weapons Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) of mass destruction, Libya’s role with respect Section 202(d) of the National Emer- to terrorism, and Libya’s poor human rights gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for record. the automatic termination of a national emer- On December 19, 2003, Prime Minister gency unless, prior to the anniversary date Blair and I announced separately that Libya’s of its declaration, the President publishes in leader, Colonel Muammar Qadhafi, had the Federal Register and transmits to the agreed to eliminate all elements of Libya’s Congress a notice stating that the emergency chemical and nuclear weapons program, de- is to continue in effect beyond the anniver- clare all nuclear activities to the International sary date. Consistent with this provision, I Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), accept inter- have sent the enclosed notice, stating that national inspections to ensure Libya’s com- the Libya emergency is to continue in effect plete adherence to the Nuclear Non- beyond January 7, 2004, to the Federal Reg- proliferation Treaty and sign the IAEA Addi- ister for publication. The most recent notice tional Protocol, accede to the Chemical continuing this emergency was published in Weapons Convention, eliminate ballistic mis- the Federal Register on January 6, 2003 (68 siles beyond 300 kilometer range, and imme- Fed. Reg. 661). diately and unconditionally allow inspectors On September 12, 2003, the United Na- from international organizations to enter tions Security Council adopted Resolution Libya. Libya’s declaration of December 19, 1506 (UNSCR 1506), ending the U.N. sanc- 2003, marks an important and welcome step tions against Libya. These U.N. sanctions toward addressing the concerns of the world were imposed in 1992 and 1993 as a result community. As Libya takes tangible steps to of Libyan involvement in the terrorist bomb- address those concerns, the United States ings of Pan Am 103 and UTA 772, and in- will in turn take reciprocal tangible steps to cluded travel restrictions, an arms embargo, recognize Libya’s progress. Libya’s agree- and financial sanctions. The UNSCR 1506 ment marks the beginning of a process of lifted these sanctions after Libya addressed rejoining the community of nations, but its the requirements of the relevant UNSC Res- declaration of December 19, 2003, must be olutions, including making arrangements to followed by verification of concrete steps. compensate the families of the victims and Therefore, consistent with section 202(d) accepting responsibility for the acts of its offi- of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. cials in the bombing of Pan Am 103. The 1622(d)), I am continuing the national emer- United States abstained from voting on the gency with respect to Libya. This notice shall lifting of the U.N. sanctions, and it made

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clear that it continued to have serious con- joined us; Secretary of Commerce Don cerns about other Libyan policies and ac- Evans; Secretary Tom Ridge of the Depart- tions, including Libya’s pursuit of weapons ment of Homeland Security, I’m honored of mass destruction, Libya’s role with regard you’re here; el embajador de Mexico, Tony to terrorism, and Libya’s poor human rights Garza. I thank all the other members of my record. administration who have joined us today. On December 19, 2003, Prime Minister I appreciate the Members of Congress Blair and I announced separately that Libya’s who have taken time to come: Senator Larry leader, Colonel Muammar Qadhafi, had Craig, Congressman Chris Cannon, and Con- agreed to eliminate all elements of Libya’s gressman Jeff Flake. I’m honored you all chemical and nuclear weapons program, de- have joined us. Thank you for coming. clare all nuclear activities to the International I appreciate the members of citizen groups Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), accept inter- who have joined us today: chairman of the national inspections to ensure Libya’s com- Hispanic Alliance for Progress, Manny plete adherence to the Nuclear Non- Lujan; Gil Moreno, the president and CEO proliferation Treaty and sign the IAEA Addi- of the Association for the Advancement of tional Protocol, accede to the Chemical Weapons Convention, eliminate ballistic mis- Mexican Americans; Roberto de Posada, the siles beyond 300 kilometer range, and imme- president of the Latino Coalition; and Hector diately and unconditionally allow inspectors Flores, the president of LULAC. Thank you from international organizations to enter all for joining us. Libya. Libya’s agreement marks the begin- Many of you here today are Americans by ning of a process that can lead to Libya re- choice, and you have followed in the path joining the international community, but its of millions. And over the generations, we declaration of December 19, 2003, must be have received energetic, ambitious, opti- followed by verification of concrete steps. mistic people from every part of the world. Despite the positive developments, the cri- By tradition and conviction, our country is sis with respect to Libya has not been fully a welcoming society. America is a stronger resolved, and I have therefore determined and better nation because of the hard work that it is necessary to continue the national and the faith and the entrepreneurial spirit emergency declared with respect to Libya of immigrants. and maintain in force the comprehensive Every generation of immigrants has re- sanctions against Libya. affirmed the wisdom of remaining open to Sincerely, the talents and dreams of the world. And George W. Bush every generation of immigrants has re- affirmed our ability to assimilate newcomers, NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Dennis which is one of the defining strengths of Hastert, Speaker of the House of Representatives, America. and Richard B. Cheney, President of the Senate. During one great period of immigration, between 1891 and 1920, our Nation received Remarks on Immigration Reform some 18 million men, women, and children from other nations. The hard work of these January 7, 2004 immigrants helped make our economy the Thanks for coming. Thanks for the warm largest in the world. The children of immi- welcome. Thanks for joining me as I make grants put on the uniform and helped to lib- this important announcement, an announce- erate the lands of their ancestors. One of the ment that I believe will make America a more primary reasons America became a great compassionate and more humane and strong- power in the 20th century is because we wel- er country. comed the talent and the character and the I appreciate members of my Cabinet who patriotism of immigrant families. have joined me today, starting with our Sec- The contributions of immigrants to Amer- retary of State, Colin Powell. I’m honored ica continue. About 14 percent of our Na- that our Attorney General, John Ashcroft, has tion’s civilian workforce is foreign-born. Most

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begin their working lives in America by tak- ings or entrusted their lives to the brutal ing hard jobs and clocking long hours in im- rings of heartless human smugglers. Workers portant industries. Many immigrants also who seek only to earn a living end up in the start businesses, taking the familiar path from shadows of American life, fearful, often hired labor to ownership. abused and exploited. When they are victim- As a Texan, I have known many immigrant ized by crime, they are afraid to call the po- families, mainly from Mexico, and I have lice or seek recourse in the legal system. seen what they add to our country. They They are cut off from their families far away, bring to America the values of faith in God, fearing if they leave our country to visit rel- love of family, hard work, and self-reliance, atives back home, they might never be able the values that made us a great nation to to return to their jobs. begin with. We’ve all seen those values in The situation I described is wrong. It is action, through the service and sacrifice of not the American way. Out of common sense more than 35,000 foreign-born men and and fairness, our laws should allow willing women currently on active duty in the United workers to enter our country and fill jobs that States military. One of them is Master Gun- Americans are not filling. We must make our nery Sergeant Guadalupe Denogean, an im- immigration laws more rational and more hu- migrant from Mexico who has served in the mane. And I believe we can do so without Marine Corps for 25 years and counting. Last jeopardizing the livelihoods of American citi- year, I was honored and proud to witness zens. Sergeant Denogean take the oath of citizen- Our reforms should be guided by a few ship in a hospital where he was recovering basic principles. First, America must control from wounds he received in Iraq. I’m hon- its borders. Following the attacks of Sep- ored to be his Commander in Chief. I’m tember the 11th, 2001, this duty of the Fed- proud to call him fellow American. eral Government has become even more ur- As a nation that values immigration and gent, and we’re fulfilling that duty. For the depends on immigration, we should have im- first time in our history, we have consolidated migration laws that work and make us proud. all border agencies under one roof to make Yet today, we do not. Instead, we see many sure they share information and the work is employers turning to the illegal labor market. more effective. We’re matching all visa appli- We see millions of hard-working men and cants against an expanded screening list to women condemned to fear and insecurity in identify terrorists and criminals and immigra- a massive undocumented economy. Illegal tion violators. This month, we have begun entry across our borders makes more difficult using advanced technology to better record the urgent task of securing the homeland. and track aliens who enter our country and The system is not working. Our Nation needs to make sure they leave as scheduled. We an immigration system that serves the Amer- have deployed new gamma and x-ray systems ican economy and reflects the American to scan cargo and containers and shipments Dream. at ports of entry to America. We have signifi- Reform must begin by confronting a basic cantly expanded the Border Patrol with more fact of life and economics: Some of the jobs than 1,000 new agents on the borders and being generated in America’s growing econ- 40 percent greater funding over the last 2 omy are jobs American citizens are not fill- years. We’re working closely with the Cana- ing. Yet these jobs represent a tremendous dian and Mexican Governments to increase opportunity for workers from abroad who border security. America is acting on a basic want to work and fulfill their duties as a hus- belief: Our borders should be open to legal band or a wife, a son or a daughter. Their travel and honest trade; our borders should search for a better life is one of the most be shut and barred tight to criminals, to drug basic desires of human beings. traders—to drug traffickers and to criminals Many undocumented workers have walked and to terrorists. mile after mile through the heat of the day Second, new immigration laws should and the cold of the night. Some have risked serve the economic needs of our country. If their lives in dangerous desert border cross- an American employer is offering a job that

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American citizens are not willing to take, we enforcement with tough penalties for anyone, ought to welcome into our country a person for any employer, violating these laws. who will fill that job. Undocumented workers now here will be Third, we should not give unfair rewards required to pay a one-time fee to register to illegal immigrants in the citizenship proc- for the temporary-worker program. Those ess or disadvantage those who came here who seek to join the program from abroad lawfully or hope to do so. and have complied with our immigration laws Fourth, new laws should provide incen- will not have to pay any fee. All participants tives for temporary foreign workers to return will be issued a temporary-worker card that permanently to their home countries after will allow them to travel back and forth be- their period of work in the United States has tween their home and the United States expired. without fear of being denied reentry into our Today I ask the Congress to join me in country. passing new immigration laws that reflect This program expects temporary workers these principles, that meet America’s eco- to return permanently to their home coun- nomic needs and live up to our highest ideals. tries after their period of work in the United I propose a new temporary-worker pro- States has expired, and there should be finan- gram that will match willing foreign workers cial incentives for them to do so. I will work with willing American employers when no with foreign governments on a plan to give Americans can be found to fill the jobs. This temporary workers credit, when they enter program will offer legal status as temporary their own nation’s retirement system, for the workers to the millions of undocumented time they have worked in America. I also men and women now employed in the support making it easier for temporary work- United States and to those in foreign coun- ers to contribute a portion of their earnings tries who seek to participate in the program to tax-preferred savings accounts, money and have been offered employment here. This new system should be clear and efficient they can collect as they return to their native so employers are able to find workers quickly countries. After all, in many of those coun- and simply. tries, a small nest egg is what is necessary All who participate in the temporary-work- to start their own business or buy some land er program must have a job or, if not living for their family. in the United States, a job offer. The legal Some temporary workers will make the de- status granted by this program will last 3 cision to pursue American citizenship. Those years and will be renewable, but it will have who make this choice will be allowed to apply an end. Participants who do not remain em- in the normal way. They will not be given ployed, who do not follow the rules of the unfair advantage over people who have fol- program, or who break the law will not be lowed legal procedures from the start. eligible for continued participation and will I oppose amnesty, placing undocumented be required to return to their home. workers on the automatic path to citizenship. Under my proposal, employers have key Granting amnesty encourages the violation of responsibilities. Employers who extend job our laws and perpetuates illegal immigration. offers must first make every reasonable effort America is a welcoming country, but citizen- to find an American worker for the job at ship must not be the automatic reward for hand. Our Government will develop a quick violating the laws of America. and simple system for employers to search The citizenship line, however, is too long, for American workers. Employers must not and our current limits on legal immigration hire undocumented aliens or temporary are too low. My administration will work with workers whose legal status has expired. They the Congress to increase the annual number must report to the Government the tem- of green cards that can lead to citizenship. porary workers they hire and who leave their Those willing to take the difficult path of citi- employ so that we can keep track of people zenship, the path of work and patience and in the program and better enforce our immi- assimilation, should be welcome in America gration laws. There must be strong workplace like generations of immigrants before them.

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In the process of immigration reform, we grants to America when more citizens of must also set high expectations for what new other countries are able to achieve their citizens should know. An understanding of dreams at their own home. what it means to be an American is not a Yet our country has always benefited from formality in the naturalization process; it is the dreams that others have brought here. essential to full participation in our democ- By working hard for a better life, immigrants racy. My administration will examine the contribute to the life of our Nation. The tem- standard of knowledge in the current citizen- porary-worker program I am proposing today ship test. We must ensure that new citizens represents the best tradition of our society, know not only the facts of our history but a society that honors the law and welcomes the ideals that have shaped our history. Every the newcomer. This plan will help return citizen of America has an obligation to learn order and fairness to our immigration system. the values that make us one Nation: liberty And in so doing, we will honor our values and civic responsibility, equality under God, by showing our respect for those who work tolerance for others. hard and share in the ideals of America. This new temporary-worker program will May God bless you all. bring more than economic benefits to Amer- ica. Our homeland will be more secure when NOTE: The President spoke at 2:45 p.m. in the we can better account for those who enter East Room at the White House. In his remarks, he referred to Antonio O. Garza, U.S. Ambassador our country, instead of the current situation to Mexico. The Office of the Press Secretary also in which millions of people are unknown, un- released a Spanish language transcript of these re- known to the law. Law enforcement will face marks. fewer problems with undocumented workers and will be better able to focus on the true threats to our Nation from criminals and ter- Remarks in a Discussion at West rorists. And when temporary workers can View Elementary School in travel legally and freely, there will be more Knoxville, Tennessee efficient management of our borders and January 8, 2004 more effective enforcement against those who pose a true threat to our country. The President. Thanks for coming. This new system will be more compas- Melvenia, thanks. We are here because West sionate. Decent, hard-working people will View Elementary School is an example of now be protected by labor laws, with the what can happen when you have leadership right to change jobs, earn fair wages, and that is willing to set high standards and to enjoy the same working conditions that the hold people to account and to realize every law requires for American workers. Tem- child can learn. porary workers will be able to establish their One of the things that I’ve learned as a identities by obtaining the legal documents Governor, now as the President, that success- that we all take for granted. And they will ful schools not only require a teaching corps be able to talk openly to authorities, to report that cares a lot and parents involved in the crimes when they are harmed, without the school, but it requires a principal who is will- fear of being deported. ing to challenge mediocrity. And so, The best way in the long run to reduce Melvenia, you’re right. We’re here because the pressures that create illegal immigration you’ve been successful, and the results show in the first place is to expand economic op- it. This school had been measured during the portunity among the countries in our neigh- measurement process, early measurement borhood. In a few days I will go to Mexico process, had been a school that wasn’t per- for the special Summit of the Americas, forming the way you wanted it or any citizen where we will discuss ways to advance free of Knoxville, Tennessee, would want. In trade and to fight corruption and encourage other words, it was below standards. the reforms that lead to prosperity. Real And now it’s exemplary in math, above growth and real hope in the nations of our standards in reading. You’re accomplishing hemisphere will lessen the flow of new immi- that which we all want, and that is not one

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single child be left behind in the State of And as a result of strong accountability Tennessee and the city of Knoxville. You’re measures and good teachers and more fund- doing a great job. Thank you for your hospi- ing, the results are positive, the fourth grade tality. math test scores around the Nation are up I mentioned the No Child Left Behind 9 points since 2000. In other words, we’re Act. We’re here to discuss that piece of bipar- beginning to achieve—meet national objec- tisan legislation. It is legislation which I tives, which is a more literate group of stu- would call historic, because for the first time, dents. The reading—eighth grade math the Federal Government is spending more scores are up 5 points. Fourth graders are money and now asking for results. See, in now testing above—reading tests are increas- the past it used to be we would send a check ing for fourth graders. We’re making a dif- and hope something happened. And now the ference. Federal Government is sending checks, at And I say ‘‘we.’’ It’s not the Federal Gov- record amounts, I might add, for Title I stu- ernment that’s making the difference. The dents and teacher training and reading pro- Federal Government is a funding mechanism grams. But we’re now saying, ‘‘Listen, we for Title I students and for some teacher trust you. We trust the Melvenias of the training programs. But the truth of the mat- world and the teachers to accomplish a mis- ter is, the responsibility for educational excel- sion. Why don’t you just show us that you lence resides at the local level. Teachers must are.’’ be free to teach. Principals must be free to And so we’ve worked with States and local lead. Superintendents of schools must be governments to develop an accountability comfortable with making changes where system all around the country, accountability change is needed. The best education policy systems which says that, first of all, we be- is local control of schools, and that’s exactly lieve in the worth and the intelligence of what’s another part of the No Child Left Be- every child, an accountability system that hind Act that’s important for you all to under- says, let us know whether or not every child stand. is learning, accountability system that tests We’ve got some people here in the audi- curriculum to determine whether they’re ence I want to introduce, before we get to working, accountability systems that enable our panel, that know something about edu- us to address problems early before they’re cation. They’re on the frontlines of education too late. reform. But before I do so, speaking about The No Child Left Behind Act is a great a guy who is on the frontline of education piece of legislation which is making a dif- reform, the United States Senator from the ference around our country. We’ve got some great State of Tennessee, Lamar Alexander, people here from around America that are is with us. He was a former Governor. He going to discuss what they’re doing to accom- was willing to challenge the soft bigotry of plish the national objective in a positive way. low expectations before it was cool to chal- The national objective is to challenge the soft lenge the soft bigotry of low expectations. He bigotry of low expectations and to raise the did a excellent job as the Secretary of Edu- standards for every single child. cation under old Number 41—[laughter]— You don’t know unless you measure. Lis- and is now a fine United States Senator. Sen- ten, I’ve heard every excuse in the book ator, I’m honored you’re with us today. about measurement. You know, ‘‘You’re test- Thank you for coming. ing too much.’’ ‘‘You’re teaching the test.’’ Jimmy Duncan and Zach Wamp and Bill And, you know, ‘‘Don’t test.’’ If you don’t Jenkins and Marsha Blackburn are all Mem- test, you have a system that just shuffles the bers of the United States Congress. Of kids through, and that’s unacceptable. It’s course, this is Jimmy’s district, as he was unacceptable to quit on a kid early and just quick to point out at the airport. [Laughter] say, ‘‘Move through, and hope you learn.’’ And he invited the three other What you’ve got to do is measure to deter- Congresspeople with us today. But these are mine where they are, and then you can com- fine Members of the Congress. These are pare districts and compare States. people that believe in the value and worth

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of every single child. They understand that child can learn, and the system must under- public education is a top domestic priority stand that. of this administration. I thank them for being I’m comfortable in asking the Congress for here, and I appreciate your good work on more money in the ’05 budget, which I will this issue. Thanks for coming. do. We’ve increased the Title I disadvantaged Charles Lindsey is with us. He’s the super- students spending by 52 percent since fiscal intendent of the Knox County schools. year ’01. The teachers and principal program Charles, I’m honored you’re here. I appre- is up by 39 percent. The reading programs ciate you coming. Bill Haslam is the mayor, are up by over 400 percent. The reason I’m newly elected mayor. Where are you, Bill? comfortable is because I know that at the Thanks for coming. I’m glad you’re here. My helm of the Department of Education, we only advice is to fill the potholes and collect have a man who knows that putting money the garbage. [Laughter] Mike Ragsdale, who into a bad system is not money well-spent. is the mayor of Knox County, is with us. Mi- Putting money into a system that believes in chael, thank you for coming, Mr. Mayor. I the worth of every child and is focused on appreciate you being here. results is money well-spent. And that man I met a fellow at the airport named Nat is Rod Paige. Rod, thank you for joining us. Foster. You probably haven’t heard of Nat. I’d be glad to have some comments. Where are you, Nat? Oh, there you are. You’ve got something to say? Thanks for coming. Nat is a—I told him at Secretary Paige. Well, Mr. President, I the airport, I said, ‘‘You’re a drill sergeant do. in the army of compassion.’’ You see, Nat The President. Because you better. is a—one of millions of our fellow citizens [Laughter] who has heard the call to love a neighbor At this point, the discussion continued. just like you’d like to be loved yourself and [ ] is a mentor. He understands what I know, The President. Thank you, Rod. You see, that the strength of the country is the heart what he’s saying is, if you believe certain kids and soul of our fellow citizens. The fact that can’t learn, guess what, they’re not going to. people are willing to take time out of their If you believe certain children, based upon busy life and to tutor a child, to serve as a the color of their skin, can’t learn, they won’t. role model for a child, and to teach a child And the system will reflect that. Basically, how to read is a defining part of the Amer- at some school districts, I hate to say, the ican civic scene. tendency is to say, ‘‘Let’s just move them And I appreciate Nat Foster being here. through. They can’t learn, therefore, why I appreciate his willingness to serve as an ex- measure, why determine, why don’t we just ample for others. January happens to be Na- get them out of the way?’’ That’s unaccept- tional Mentoring Month. I hope others in the able to America. It’s unacceptable to our Sec- Knoxville area and all around Tennessee and retary of Education. I appreciate the attitude the country, for that matter, follow the lead of busting the status quo when the status quo of a soldier in the army of compassion like is not meeting the great dreams of our coun- Nat and serve your country and your State try. and your community by finding a child who Public education, we’ve got to get it right. needs adult guidance and mentor, to serve It’s the gateway to hope. It is essential for as an example. We can change America one this country to have a public education sys- heart and one soul and one conscience at a tem that responds to the needs of every child time. so that we can meet great objectives for this I’m joined today by the Secretary of Edu- country. It’s trite. It’s been said a lot, but cation. He was the superintendent of schools it’s true: The future of the country depends in Houston, Texas, when I was the Governor. on our capacity to educate every child. I saw firsthand his deep desire to defeat me- A person who understands that is Dr. Jim diocrity, to insist upon excellence for every Pughsley from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg single child regardless of their background. public school system. He’s the super- He had a deep understanding that every intendent of schools. And he and Rod have

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been superintendents before. The reason The President. I want to pick up on two why he has been invited is because he brings points she made. One is truancy and parental an extraordinary record as the super- involvement. There’s nothing like test results intendent of schools. Seven years ago, Afri- being published to get the attention of a par- can American fifth graders reading at grade ent. A lot of parents believe in the best, of level in the State of North Carolina were at course, and they believe that the school their 35 percent in his district. Today, they’re at child goes to was meeting all kinds of stand- 78 percent. All fifth graders 7 years ago were ards and is an excellent school. After all, at 59 percent. And now, they’re at 86 per- they’ve been told that. That may not be the cent. case. And so when you begin to publish the So not only has it been improvement for test results, it does enhance parental involve- all students, the minority knowledge gap has ment. It encourages the parent to become closed dramatically. I’ll let Jim tell you why, involved. but as a result of these great results and his What the No Child Left Behind Act does, leadership and the leadership, obviously— it not only provides extra help for a child I’m sure he’ll tell you—of principals and that needs help early; it also gives parents teachers who get it, who understand that more options in the process. A parent can every child matters, he was named the 2003 take money and send that child to an after- Superintendent of the Year by the National school tutoring program—by the way, tutor- Alliance of Black School Educators. ing programs, the sponsor of which can be Welcome. I’m glad you’re here, Jim. public-sector or private-sector programs. The Thanks for coming. child can send the—the parent can send the [The discussion continued.] child to another public school. In other words, there is a consequence. The President. I’ll drop a fancy word on Because one of the principles in the No you called ‘‘disaggregate.’’ What he said, Child Left Behind Act is we’re not going to ‘‘We’re disaggregating results. We’re focus- leave children trapped in schools that will not ing not just on the whole. We’re trying to teach or change. There’s time for schools to understand whether or not a black child is change. There’s time for schools to use the learning or a Hispanic child is learning.’’ In accountability system to determine whether other words, we’re unwilling to accept the or not they’re using the right curriculum or past, where everybody was just kind of meas- not. But there has to be an end to mediocrity ured all together. What we want to know is, at some point in time, and that’s what the— we want to know specifically who is suc- it’s for the parents, as far as the parents are ceeding and who is not. And the No Child concerned, so the parents have got a lot of Left Behind Act provides additional Federal different options now available when a school money to stay focused on those children who district takes Title I money. And that’s a very need help early. important reform. And that’s an essential part. You see, these But the most important part of the reform school districts measure. They see a child is that parents are now becoming more in- needs a little extra help in reading or an after- volved in their schools. After all, the child’s school program. There is money in the budg- first teacher is a mom or a dad. And it’s es- et to focus on that child. And that’s an essen- sential, as the principal will tell you, that the tial change, an essential reform. more civic involvement you get with your Kathy Cox, who is the State school super- schools, the more parental involvement you intendent from the great State of Georgia, get with your schools, the more likely it is has joined us. She was a classroom teacher that school is going to be able to meet the for 15 years. She is now the executive direc- objectives of the No Child Left Behind Act. tor of the Department of Education. I’m Speaking about people who understand honored you’re here. Why don’t you share the need to use a curriculum that works, with us your experiences in the great State Norm Mishelow is with us. He is a principal of Georgia. at the Barton Elementary School in Mil- [The discussion continued.] waukee, Wisconsin. He has come south for

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some warm weather. [Laughter] Didn’t work. you’ve got a great staff. You do. It also— [Laughter] you’re a educational entrepreneur, somebody Mr. Mishelow. I think it’s the same tem- who is willing to focus on what works. And perature here as there. thank you for what you’re doing. I appre- The President. That’s right. [Laughter] ciate—I know the people of Milwaukee are One of the things we’ve done is we’ve, at thrilled that you are where you are. the Federal level, put a primary focus on With us as well is Margie Willis, Grace reading. As I mentioned to you, the amount Christian Elementary, Hattiesburg, Mis- of reading money now available is an increase sissippi. Grace Christian is a Title I school, of 400 percent over the last 3 years. And receives Title I money. Title I, by the way, what’s important about reading programs is for those who aren’t aware of the term, are they actually work, not that they sound good, Federal monies aimed at economically dis- but they actually achieve the objective. And advantaged kids. It’s an important part of the the way to determine whether or not reading Federal funding—or the education funding programs work is to measure. If a child can program. It’s a commitment that the Federal read, it will show up on an accountability sys- Government has made, will continue to tem. make. And Norm, why don’t you tell us about But Margie is a literacy coach. That’s an what we call research-based reading pro- interesting term, isn’t it? She is—has met— grams and tell us about your school and what the students have met expectations. Tell us you’re doing. about your school, Margie. Tell us what you’re doing, and tell us how you’ve been [The discussion continued.] so successful. The President. A couple of observations. The discussion continued. First of all, we’re learning what works when [ ] it comes to reading. It’s not guesswork any- The President. Well, I appreciate you. more. For a while it was a guesswork. You Thank you so much. By the way, research- might remember the great debates—capsul- based reading means phonics, in essence. ized, whole language versus phonics. There And it is—it works. It works, and we know was a lot of political capital expended over it works, and you’ve heard personal testimony that, and all of a sudden the accountability that it does work. And I would urge schools system starts to clarify reality. And as Norm that aren’t using research-based reading pro- mentioned, they’ve chosen a program and a grams to take a look at them. If you’re not curriculum that is now working. Why do we meeting standards, listen to the personal tes- know? Because they measure. They’re able timony of people in the frontline of public to tell because there is a measurement stand- education, and listen to the joy in their voices ard. The other thing that happens when about achieving fantastic results and watch- Norm’s school does well, other schools say, ing all the kids from all walks of life, all eco- ‘‘Wait a minute. Old Norm doesn’t seem to nomic backgrounds succeeding. be all that good. How is he able to do what I’ll never forget, one time we were in he’s doing?’’ [Laughter] Houston, and Rod had a—he didn’t call her Mr. Mishelow. Who are you talking to? a reading—a literacy coach. He called her The President. Well—[laughter]—just a reading czar, but anyway—czarina in this guessing, Norm. [Laughter] But he serves as case. And she stood up and said, ‘‘Reading a go-by. See, when you have accountability is the new civil right.’’ And we’re getting it and you lay the results out for everybody to right in more and more schools. I want to see, all of a sudden people start saying, thank both of you all for being on the front ‘‘What’s Norm doing that I’m not doing?’’ edge of change. Thank you for your exam- Because as Norm mentioned to you, he’s ples. taken a school of children who, you know, Jerry Hodges is with us today. He’s the that are the—as we say—used to say, tough executive director of Project GRAD based to educate, and showing what can happen. right here in Knoxville, Tennessee. Project I appreciate, Norm, your leadership. You said GRAD is a nonprofit trying to close the

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achievement gap by talking about and Remarks at a Bush-Cheney spreading curriculum that works. Thanks for Luncheon in Knoxville coming. January 8, 2004 [The discussion continued.] Thank you all. Thanks for coming. Thank The President. Well, I appreciate it. you all very much. Thanks for the warm wel- Thanks, good job. Thank you. come. It’s glad—I’m glad to be in the land Nonprofits, corporate Tennessee, people of the orange and white. UT—kind of sounds who care about the future of your State need like home. [Laughter] Really appreciate to follow the example of Project GRAD and coming back to Knoxville. I’m so thrilled that become involved in your school districts. I so many came out to support the Bush-Che- appreciate the superintendent and the school ney ticket. As you might recall, we had pretty board members for reaching out and under- good success here in the year 2000. Because standing that educational excellence is a local of today, we’re laying the foundation for what responsibility. I mean, people really is going to be even better success in Ten- shouldn’t hope that the Federal Government nessee in 2004. We’re on our way to a na- develops the blueprint for success. That’s not tional victory in November of 2004. our role. And you don’t want a one-size-fits- I’m loosening up—[laughter]—and I’m all education approach. You want a—the best getting ready. But there will be plenty of time education reform comes when the local peo- for politics, because I’ve got a job to do on ple decide to reform, when your principals behalf of every citizen of this country. I’m reform, when the people running at the State focused on the people’s business in Wash- level reform, when businesses and local com- ington, DC. My administration will continue munity leaders say, ‘‘Wait a minute. We’re to work hard to earn the confidence of all not happy with the way things are. Let’s Americans, by keeping this Nation secure change for the good of everybody.’’ and strong and prosperous and free. And that’s what’s taking place here in Knox I’m honored you invited me here today. County schools. I want to thank you for that. I know I wasn’t your first choice. [Laughter] Listen, I want to thank you all for coming. Laura was tied up. [Laughter] She’s a fabu- I’m honored our panel came from around lous First Lady. I’m a lucky man that she the country to share with us the stories of said yes when I said, ‘‘Will you marry me?’’ success. And by the way, we’re just beginning She really sends her best and her love. in America. See, one of these days, we won’t She’s—I’m really proud of her. have enough room on the stages as we bring I also want to thank my friend Lamar Alex- people from all around the country to talk ander for doing such a fine job in the United about what is happening, the tremendous States Senate on behalf of the great people success as a result of the No Child Left Be- of Tennessee. He brings such class and dig- hind Act. I’m honored you all came. I want nity to public office. You’ve known that when to thank you again for believing in every child he was your Governor. He’s now doing it and raising that bar and believing in the again as the Senator, as is the other Senator worth of every individual. from the great State of Tennessee, Senator May God bless your work, and may God Bill Frist, the majority leader of the United continue to bless our country. Thank you for States Senate. You’ve done a great job of coming. sending two fine people to the Senate. I’m honored that members of the congres- NOTE: The discussion began at 11:14 a.m. In his sional delegation from Tennessee have remarks, the President referred to Melvenia joined us today, starting with your own Smith, principal, West View Elementary School; homegrown Jimmy Duncan. I appreciate and Mayor Bill Haslam of Knoxville, TN. The President also referred to Title I of the Improving you, Jimmy. I got off Air Force One and the America’s Schools Act of 1994 (Public Law No. first thing he said was, ‘‘This is my district.’’ 103–382), which amended Title I of the Elemen- [Laughter] tary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (Public I want to thank Congressman Zach Wamp Law No. 89–10). for joining us today. Thank you for being

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here, Zach. Congressman Bill Jenkins is with Terrorists declared war on the United us today. Congressman, thank you for com- States of America, and war is what they got. ing. I see you got a seat in the back. [Laugh- We’ve captured or killed many of the key ter] And Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn leaders of the Al Qaida network, and the rest is with us today. Marsha, thank you for being of them know we’re on their trail. In Afghani- here. stan and in Iraq, we gave ultimatums to ter- I’m honored that members of the state- ror regimes. Those regimes chose defiance, house have come. It’s always a good sign and those regimes are no more. Fifty million when the State senators and State legislators people in those two countries once lived are coming. After all, all good politics is local under tyranny, and now they live in freedom. politics. I want to thank Ben Atchley, he’s Three years ago, our military was not re- the Republican leader in the State senate, ceiving the resources it needed, and morale for joining us today. Beth Harwell, who is was beginning to suffer. So we increased the the chairman of the Tennessee Republican defense budgets to prepare for the threats Party, is with us. I want to thank you for of a new era. And today, no one in the world coming too, Beth. can question the skill and the strength and I’m so honored that many of you all took the spirit of the United States military. time to make this event a successful event. Three years ago, the economy was in trou- Jim Haslam is event cochairman. Big Jim, I ble and a recession was beginning. And then thank you for your friendship, and I appre- we had attacks on our country and corporate ciate—I also appreciate Jimmy for being the scandals and war, which all affected the peo- event cochairman. And I appreciate the fact ple’s confidence. But this administration that the mayor is with us today as well. acted. We passed tough new laws to hold cor- I want to thank my friend Mercer Rey- porate criminals to account. And to get the nolds. He’s from Cincinnati, Ohio. He’s the economy going again, I have twice led the national finance chairman of Bush-Cheney. United States Congress to pass historic tax He’s working hard to make sure that this relief for the American people. campaign is well-funded. When the cam- We understand that when Americans have paign starts, we want to be ready to go. And more take-home pay to spend, to save, or thanks to the people in this room, and thanks invest, the whole economy grows, and people to people around the country, when the cam- are more likely to find a job. So we’re return- paign gets started we are going to be ready ing more money—money to people to help to go. them raise their families. We’re reducing I appreciate David Kustoff, who is the taxes on dividends and capital gains to en- State chairman. His job is to rally the grass- courage investment. We’ve given small busi- roots. And so, for those of you who are in- nesses incentives to expand and to hire new volved in grassroots politics here in Ten- people. With all these actions, we are laying nessee, I want to thank you for what you’re the foundation for greater prosperity and going to do. I want to thank you for the signs more jobs across America so that every single you’re going to put up. I want to thank you person in this country has a chance to realize for the phone calls you’re going to make. I’m the American Dream. want to thank you for joining us as we turn Today, the American economy is strong, out the vote to make sure this good State and it is getting stronger. The figures for the turns out in significant numbers. third quarter of 2003 show that the economy And as you’re turning out that vote, I want grew at an annual rate of 8.2 percent, the you to remind them, in the last 3 years our fastest pace in nearly 20 years. Productivity Nation has acted decisively to confront great is high. Business investment is rising. Hous- challenges. I came to this office to solve ing construction is increasing. We’ve added problems, not to pass them on to future over 300,000 new jobs in the last 4 months. Presidents and future generations. I came to The tax relief we passed is working. seize opportunities instead of letting them Three years ago, there was a lot of talk slip away. My administration is meeting the about education reform, but there wasn’t tests of our time. much action. So I acted. I called for and the

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Congress passed the No Child Left Behind to join my administration. I put together a Act. With a solid bipartisan majority, we de- fantastic team of people, people from all livered the most dramatic education reforms walks of life to serve our country, people who in a generation. We’re spending more money have come to the Nation’s Capital not to rep- at the Federal level, but we’re finally asking resent their own special interests but to rep- the question, ‘‘Are you teaching the children resent the greatest country on the face of how to read and write and add and subtract?’’ the Earth. There’s been no finer Vice Presi- This administration is challenging the soft dent than Dick Cheney. Mother may have bigotry of low expectations because we be- a second opinion. [Laughter] lieve that every child can learn, and we ex- In 3 years, we’ve done a lot. We have come pect every school to teach. The days of far, but our work is only beginning. I’ve set excusemaking are over. No child should be great goals worthy of this great Nation. First, left behind in America. America is committed to expanding the We reorganized the Government and cre- realm of freedom and peace for our own se- ated the Department of Homeland Security curity and for the benefit of the world. And to better safeguard the borders and ports of second, in our own country, we will work for our country and to better protect the Amer- a society that is prosperous and compas- ican people. We passed trade promotion au- sionate so every citizen has a chance to work thority to open up new markets for Ten- and to succeed and to realize the great prom- nessee’s farmers and ranchers and entre- ise of our country. It is clear that the future preneurs and manufacturers. We passed of freedom and peace depend on the actions budget agreements that is helping to main- of America. This Nation is freedom’s home tain much-needed spending discipline in and freedom’s defender. We welcome this Washington, DC. charge of history, and we are keeping it. And last month, we completed the greatest The war on terror continues. The enemies advance in health care coverage for Amer- of freedom are not idle, and neither are we. ica’s seniors since the founding of Medicare. This country will not rest; we will not tire; The new Medicare law, that I pushed for and we will not stop until this danger to civiliza- signed, will give older Americans the option tion is removed. We are confronting that of a prescription drug benefit and more con- danger in Iraq, where all people can be cer- trol over their health care, so that they can tain that they will never again have to fear receive the modern health care that they de- the rule of Saddam Hussein. He started last serve. year in a palace. He ended this year in a On issue after issue, this administration prison. The Ba’athist holdouts largely respon- has acted on principle, has kept its word, and sible for the current violence now know there has made great progress for the American will be no return to the corrupt power and people. A lot of credit belongs to the Mem- privilege they once held. All Iraqis who have bers of the United States Senate and the taken the side of freedom have taken the United States Congress. I enjoy working with winning side. Majority Leader Bill Frist. You know as well We still face terrorists who would rather as I do he’s plenty capable, plenty com- go on killing the innocent than accept the petent, and a very decent man. I enjoy work- rise of liberty in the Middle East. And there ing with Speaker Denny Hastert, who shares is a reason why. They know that the advance the same characteristics as Bill Frist, an hon- of freedom in Iraq will be a major defeat orable, decent man. for the cause of terror. This collection of kill- We’re working hard to change the tone in ers is trying to shake the will of America. Washington, DC. There’s too much back- America will never be intimidated by a bunch biting, endless politics, name-calling. The of thugs and assassins. best way to change the tone is to focus on We’re aggressively after them in Iraq, de- the people’s business and to focus on results. feating them there so we will never have to And that’s what we’re doing with the Con- face them in our own country. Other nations gress. Our record has been a good record. are helping, because they understand a free And those are the kind of people I’ve asked Iraq will make the world more secure. We’re

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standing with the Iraqi people as they assume which increase the cost of medicine. People more of their own defense and move toward who have been harmed by a bad doc deserve self-government. These are not easy tasks, their day in court. Yet the system should not but they are essential tasks. We will finish reward lawyers who are simply fishing for a what we have begun. We will win this essen- rich settlement. Frivolous lawsuits drive up tial victory in the war on terror. the cost of health care and they, therefore, We’re working to oppose proliferation of affect the Federal budget. weapons around the world. Last month, after Medical liability reform is a national issue talks with the United States and Great Brit- that requires a national solution. I sent a bill ain, Libya voluntarily committed to disclose over to the House, and the House of Rep- and dismantle all its weapons of mass de- resentatives passed a good bill to reform the struction programs. Leaders around the system. The bill is stuck in the Senate. I look world now know weapons of mass destruc- forward to working with Senator Frist and tion do not bring influence or prestige; they Senator Alexander to convince reluctant Sen- bring isolation and unwelcomed con- ators to act on behalf of all the people in sequences. And nations who abandon the America and get a good medical liability bill pursuit of these weapons will find an open to my desk. Some Members of the Senate path to better relations with the United must understand that no one in America has States of America. ever been healed by a frivolous lawsuit. Yet our greatest security comes from the I have a responsibility as your President advance of freedom, from the advance of to make sure the judicial system runs well, human liberty, because free nations do not and I have met that duty. I have nominated support terror, free nations do not attack superb men and women to the Federal their neighbors, free nations do not threaten courts, people who will interpret the law, not the world with weapons of mass terror. legislate from the bench. Some of the Mem- Americans believe that freedom is the deep- est need and hope of every human heart. I bers of the Senate are trying to keep my believe that freedom is the future of every nominees off the bench by blocking up-or- nation, and we understand that freedom is down votes. Every judicial nominee deserves not America’s gift to the world. Freedom is a fair hearing and an up-or-down vote on the the Almighty God’s gift to every man and Senate floor. It is time for some Members woman in this world. of the United States Senate to stop playing America also understands that unprece- politics with American justice. dented influence brings tremendous respon- The Congress needs to get an energy bill sibilities. We have duties in the world. When to my desk. This Nation must be more en- we see disease and starvation and hopeless ergy-efficient. We must conserve our re- poverty, we will not turn away. On the con- sources. We must do a better job of pro- tinent of Africa, America is now committed tecting the quality of the air in places like to bringing the healing power of medicine Knoxville, Tennessee. But for the sake of to millions of men and women and children economic security and for the sake of na- now suffering with AIDS. This powerful, tional security, we must become less depend- strong, and compassionate land is leading the ent on foreign sources of energy. entire world on this incredibly important A strong and prosperous nation must also work of human rescue. be a compassionate nation. I will continue We face challenges here at home as well. to advance our agenda of compassionate con- We’ll be equal to those challenges. This ad- servatism, which means we’ll apply the best ministration will continue to push a and most innovative ideas to the task of help- progrowth, pro-entrepreneur economic ing our fellow citizens in need. There’s still agenda so that people who want to work and millions of men and women who want to end can’t find a job today will be able to find their dependence on the Government and that job. become independent through hard work. We And for the sake of our health care system, must build on the success of welfare reform we need to cut down on the frivolous lawsuits to bring more work and, therefore, dignity

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into the lives of our fellow citizens who are you’re responsible for loving your child with still dependent upon the Government. all your heart. If you’re worried about the With the help of Congress, we’re working quality of the education in Knoxville, Ten- to ensure that more Americans can serve nessee, you’re responsible for doing some- their communities and their country through thing about it. If you’re a CEO in corporate citizen service programs. I urge both Houses America, you are responsible for telling the of the United States Congress to pass my truth to your shareholders and your employ- Faith-Based Initiative, which will help em- ees. power the armies of compassion that are And in the new responsibility society, each mentoring our children and caring for the of us is responsible for loving our neighbor homeless and offering hope to the addicted. just like we’d like to be loved ourself. We One of the great strengths of our country can see that culture—the culture of service is that we’re a nation of many faiths, Chris- is strong in America. You know, I started the tian, Jewish, and Muslim faiths. Out of that faith comes the deep desire for many of our USA Freedom Corps right after September citizens to heed the universal call to help a the 11th to encourage our fellow citizens to neighbor who hurts. The Federal Govern- extend a compassionate hand to a neighbor ment should never fear the influence of faith- in need. And the response has been fantastic. based programs. We ought to welcome faith- People from all walks of life are serving our based programs into helping solve some of Nation by helping people who hurt. Our the intractable problems of our society. neighborhood healers are vibrant and strong. A compassionate society is one, also, that Faith-based and charitable organizations must promote opportunity for all, including thrive in our country. Policemen and fire- the independence and dignity that come fighters and people who wear our Nation’s from ownership. This administration under- uniform remind us what it means to sacrifice stands the power of owning something in our for something greater than ourself. Once society. We’ll constantly strive to promote an again, the children of America believe in he- ownership society. Listen, we have a minority roes because they see them every day. homeownership gap in America. I proposed In these challenging times, the world has plans to the Congress to help close that gap. seen the resolve and the courage of America, We want more people owning their own and I have been privileged to see the com- home. We want people owning and man- passion and the character of the American aging their own health care accounts and people. All the tests of the last 3 years have their own retirement accounts. We want come to the right nation. We’re a strong more people owning their own small busi- country, and we use that strength to defend nesses. And that’s why developing the entre- the peace. We’re an optimistic country, con- preneurial spirit and keeping it strong is so fident in ourselves and in ideals bigger than important. You see, we understand that when ourselves. Abroad, we seek to lift whole na- a person owns something, he or she has a tions by spreading freedom. At home, we vital stake in the future of our country. seek to lift up lives by spreading opportunity In a compassionate society, people respect one another. They respect each other’s reli- to every corner of America. This is the work gious beliefs, political opinions. People take that history has set before us. We welcome responsibility for the decisions they make in it and know that for our country, the best life. See, the culture of America is changing days lie ahead. from one that has said, ‘‘If it feels good, do May God bless you all. it,’’ and ‘‘If you’ve got a problem, blame somebody else,’’ to a culture in which each NOTE: The President spoke at 12:55 p.m. at the of us understands that we’re responsible for Knoxville Convention Center. In his remarks, he the decisions we make in life. If you’re fortu- referred to Mayor Bill Haslam of Knoxville, TN; nate enough to be a mother or a father, and former President Saddam Hussein of Iraq.

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Remarks at a Bush-Cheney probably a pretty good thing to travel with Reception in Palm Beach Gardens, him. I know the Lieutenant Governor, Toni Florida Jennings, is here. The attorney general, January 8, 2004 Charlie Crist, is here. Tom Gallagher is here. Where’s Gallagher? I appreciate you coming. Thank you all. Thanks for coming. It’s A lot of members of the statehouse are great to be back in the great State of Florida. here. It’s a good sign when State senators We carried it once, and we’re going to carry and State reps show up. After all, you win it again. campaigns by energizing the grassroots. I ap- And I want to thank you all for your help. preciate the members of the statehouse I appreciate you showing up today. I appre- being here. I’m looking forward to working ciate your contributions. I appreciate your with you to carry Florida. I want to thank friendship, appreciate your prayers. I appre- all the grassroots activists who are here. I ciate you laying the foundation for what is want to thank you for what you’re going to going to be a great national victory in Novem- do, which is to put up the signs, to man the ber of ’04. phone booths, to put out the mailers, and And I’m getting ready. [Laughter] I’m to turn out the vote. loosening up. [Laughter] But there’s plenty I want to thank the mayors and local offi- of time for politics. See, I’ve got a job to cials who are here. I want to thank all those do. I’m focused on the people’s business in who worked hard to make this event such Washington, DC. I want you to remind your a successful event. We’ve had three event co- friends and neighbors that I will continue to chairmen, the Guzzettas, the Gaineses, and work hard to earn the confidence of every Elizabeth Fago. I want to thank you for your American by keeping this Nation secure and hard work. I appreciate your good work. strong and prosperous and free. My friend Mercer Reynolds is here. He’s I love my brother Jeb. He is a great Gov- the national finance chairman. He’s from ernor. He is a great Governor, first and fore- Cincinnati, Ohio. He’s taken a lot of time most, because he has a large heart. He cares out of his private life to help make sure we deeply about the people. He and I share get well funded in what’s going to be a tough some things in common. We share the same campaign. I want to thank my friend Al Hoff- last name. [Laughter] We share the same po- man from the great State of Florida, who is litical consultant—[laughter]—Mother. doing such a fantastic job as the—raising [Laughter] And we both married extremely money. And of course, there’s Tom Petway well. and Zach Zachariah, two good buddies as I’m honored to be onstage with a fabulous well, who have been working hard to make first lady for the State of Florida, Ms. this campaign go well. Columba. And a great First Lady for America In the last 3 years, our Nation has acted sends her love. I’m sorry Laura is not here. decisively to confront great challenges. I I know she was Jeb’s first choice to be the came to this office to solve problems instead speaker today. [Laughter] She’s in Wash- of passing them on to future Presidents and ington. But I’m a lucky man to have married future generations. I came to seize opportu- Laura Bush. She is a great wife, a fabulous nities instead of letting them slip away. My mother, and a wonderful First Lady for administration is meeting the tests of our America. time. I know my friend and former colleague in Terrorists declared war on the United the Cabinet Mel Martinez is with us. Mel, States of America, and war is what they got. thank you for being here today. I know Con- We’ve captured or killed many of the key gressman Mark Foley is with us. Mr. Con- leaders of the Al Qaida network, and the rest gressman, I’m glad you’re here. I’m sorry of them know we’re on their trail. In Afghani- Congressman Clay Shaw is not here. This is stan and in Iraq, we gave ultimatums to ter- his district, I understand, but he is traveling ror regimes. Those regimes chose defiance, with Speaker Denny Hastert. He made a and those regimes are no more. The world good choice. When the Speaker calls, it’s is better off, and so are the 50 million people

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in those two countries who once lived under for Title I students, for the poorest of stu- tyranny, and today, they live in freedom. dents. But now, because we believe every Three years ago, our military was not re- child can learn to read and write and add ceiving the resources it needed and morale and subtract, we’re insisting that States meas- was beginning to suffer, so we increased the ure. We want to know. defense budgets to meet the threats of a new The State of Florida, led by this great Gov- era. And today, no one in the world can ques- ernor, is on the leading edge of education tion the skill and the strength and the spirit reform because he holds people to account. of the United States military. And the reason he does is because he and Three years ago, the economy was in trou- I both know every child can learn. We are ble and a recession was beginning. And I challenging the soft bigotry of low expecta- want you to remember what we have come tions. We’ve raised the bar. We’ve raised the through. Not only was a recession beginning, standards. We expect results so that not one but our country was attacked. And then there single child in America is left behind. were corporate scandals and war, all of which We’ve reorganized our Government dur- affected the people’s confidence. But this ad- ing the past 3 years and created the Depart- ministration acted. We passed tough new ment of Homeland Security to better guard laws to hold corporate criminals to account. Florida’s ports, better guard our borders, to And to get the economy going again, I have better protect the American people. We twice led the United States Congress to pass passed trade promotion authority to open up historic tax relief for the American people. new markets for Florida’s ranchers and farm- This administration understands that when ers and entrepreneurs and manufacturers. Americans have more take-home pay to We passed budget agreements, much-need- spend, to save, or invest, the whole economy ed budget agreements, to help bring spend- grows, and people are more likely to find a ing discipline to Washington, DC. job. So we’re returning more money to the And last month, we completed the greatest people to help them raise their families. advance in health care coverage for Amer- We’ve reduced taxes on dividends and capital ica’s senior citizens since the creation of gains to encourage investment. We’ve given Medicare. The new Medicare law that I small businesses incentives to expand and to fought for and signed—the bill that I cam- hire new people. With all these actions, we paigned for, worked for, and signed will give have laid the foundation for greater pros- older Americans the option of a prescription perity and more jobs across America, so every drug benefit and more control over their own single citizen has a chance to realize the health care, so they can receive the modern American Dream. medical care they deserve. Today, the American economy is strong, On issue after issue, this administration and it is getting stronger. The figures for the has acted on principle, has kept its word, and third quarter of the year 2003 show the econ- has made progress for the American people. omy grew at an annual rate of 8.2 percent, The Congress gets a lot of credit. I enjoy the fastest pace in nearly 20 years. Produc- working with Majority Leader Bill Frist, tivity is high. Business investment is rising. Speaker Denny Hastert, Congressman Mark Housing construction is expanding. Manufac- Foley. We’re working hard in Washington, turing activity is increasing, and we’ve added DC, to change the tone of the Nation’s Cap- over 300,000 new jobs in the last 4 months. ital. There’s too much politics, endless back- The tax relief we passed is working. biting, zero-sum attitudes. And the best way Three years ago, there was a lot of talk to do that is to stay focused on the people’s about education reform, but there wasn’t business and on results. And we have deliv- much action. So I acted. I called for and the ered results over the last 3 years. Congress passed the No Child Left Behind A major reason this administration has Act. With a solid bipartisan majority, we de- been successful is because I have surrounded livered the most dramatic education reforms myself with really good, decent, capable, in a generation. We’ve increased spending honorable people, people from all walks of out of the Federal Government, particularly life, people who have come to the Nation’s

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Capital to serve the United States of Amer- and more of their own self-government. ica, not a special or self interest. This Nation These are not easy tasks, but they are essen- has had no finer Vice President than Vice tial tasks. And America will finish what we President Dick Cheney. Mother may have a have begun. We will win this essential victory second opinion. [Laughter] in the war on terror. In 3 years, we have come far. We’ve done We’re working to oppose proliferation of a lot, but our work is only beginning. I have weapons around the world. Last month, after set great goals worthy of a great nation. First, talks with the United States and Great Brit- America is committed to expanding the ain, Libya volunteered to disclose and dis- realm of freedom and peace for our own se- mantle all its weapons of mass destruction curity and for the benefit of the world. And programs. Leaders around the world now second, in our own country, we must work know weapons of mass destruction do not for a society that is prosperous and compas- bring influence or prestige. They bring isola- sionate so that every citizen—every citizen— tion and other unwelcome consequences. regardless of their background, has a chance And nations who abandon the pursuit of to work and to succeed and realize the great promise of this country. these weapons will find an open path to bet- It is clear that the future of freedom and ter relations with the United States of Amer- peace depend on the actions of America. This ica. Nation is freedom’s home and freedom’s de- Our greatest security comes from the ad- fender. We welcome this charge of history, vance of human liberty, because free nations and we are keeping it. The war on terror goes do not support terror, free nations do not on. The enemies of freedom are not idle, and attack their neighbors, free nations do not neither are we. This country will not rest; threaten the world with weapons of mass ter- we will not tire; we will not stop until this ror. Americans believe that freedom is the danger to civilization is removed. deepest need and hope of every human We are confronting that danger in Iraq, heart. I believe that freedom is the future where all the people of that country can now of every nation, and I know that freedom is be certain they will never again have to fear not America’s gift to the world, freedom is the rule of Saddam Hussein. The Ba’athist the Almighty God’s gift to each man and holdouts largely responsible for current vio- woman in this world. lence now know there will be no return to America understands that unprecedented the corrupt power and privilege they once influence brings tremendous responsibilities. held. All Iraqis who have taken the side of We have duties in this world, and when we freedom have chosen the winning side. see disease and starvation and hopeless pov- We still face terrorists who would rather erty, we will not turn away. On the continent go on killing the innocent than accept the of Africa, America is now committed to rise of liberty in the Middle East. You see, bringing the healing power of medicine to they know that the advance of freedom in millions of men and women and children suf- Iraq would be a major defeat for the cause fering with AIDS. of terror. This collection of killers is trying to shake the will of the United States. The We face challenges here at home as well, United States will never be intimidated by and we will prove that we’re equal to the a bunch of thugs and assassins. challenges. This administration will continue We are on the offensive in Iraq. We’re ag- to promote a progrowth, pro-small-business, gressively striking the terrorists in Iraq. We pro-entrepreneur economic agenda until ev- will defeat them there, so we do not have erybody who wants a job can find one. to face them in America. And a lot of nations And for the sake of our health care system, are helping to build a free Iraq, because they we need to cut down on the frivolous lawsuits understand a free Iraq is in their interest. which increase the cost of medicine. I appre- A free Iraq will make the world more peace- ciate Jeb’s leadership on this issue. He and ful. And we’re standing with the Iraqi people I understand that people who have been as they assume more of their own defense harmed by a bad doc deserve their day in

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court. Yet, the system should not reward law- reform to bring work and dignity into the yers who are simply fishing for a rich settle- lives of more of our fellow citizens. ment. Frivolous lawsuits drive up the cost With the help of Congress, we’re working of health care, and they therefore affect the to ensure more Americans serve their com- Federal budget. munities and through their country— Medical liability reform is a national issue through the citizen service programs. Both that requires a national solution. I put forth Houses should come together and pass my a good plan. The House of Representatives Faith-Based Initiative. Our Government passed it. However, the bill is stuck in the should not fear the influence of faith in the Senate. And I know two United States Sen- lives of our fellow citizens. As a matter of ators who keep it stuck in the United States fact, the great strength of the country is the Senate, and they might happen to be from fact that we’re a nation of many faiths. And your State. The Senate must act on behalf faith-based community programs are those of the American people and pass medical li- that are often able to change people’s hearts. ability reform, and the Senators must under- And when you change a person’s heart, you stand no one has ever been healed by a frivo- help save a person’s life. lous lawsuit. We need to rally the armies of compassion, I have a responsibility as the President to those who mentor our children, those who make sure the judicial system runs well, and care for the homeless, those who offer hope I have met that duty. I have nominated su- to the addicted. A compassionate society is perb men and women for the Federal courts, a society that promotes opportunity for every people who will interpret the law, not legis- citizen, including the independence and dig- late from the bench. Some Members from nity that come from ownership. This adminis- the United States Senate, two of them from tration will constantly strive to promote an this State—[laughter]—are trying to keep my ownership society in America. We want more nominees off the bench by blocking up-or- people owning their own home. We have a down votes. Every judicial nominee deserves minority homeownership gap in America, a fair hearing and an up-or-down vote on the and I have put forth a plan to close that gap. Senate floor. It is time for some of those We want people owning and managing their Members of the United States Senate to stop own health care plans and their own retire- playing politics with American justice. ment accounts. We want more people own- This country needs an energy plan, and ing their own small business, because we un- the Congress needs to get an energy plan derstand that when a person owns some- to my desk. I’ve been calling for one for sev- thing, he or she has a vital stake in the future eral years now, an energy plan that encour- of America. ages energy efficiency and conservation, that In a compassionate society, people respect uses technology in wise ways to find addi- one another. They respect their religious be- tional supplies of energy. For the sake of eco- liefs. They respect their opinions. And they nomic security and for the sake of national take responsibility for the decisions they security, this country must become less de- make in life. The culture of this country is pendent on foreign sources of energy. changing from one that has said, ‘‘If it feels A strong and prosperous nation must also good, just go ahead and do it,’’ and ‘‘If you’ve be a compassionate nation. I will continue got a problem, blame somebody else,’’ to a to advance our agenda of what I call compas- culture in which each of us understands that sionate conservatism, which means we’ll we’re responsible for the decisions we make apply the best and most innovative ideas to in life. the task of helping fellow citizens who are If you’re fortunate enough to be a mother in need. There are still a lot of people, mil- or a father, you’re responsible for loving your lions of men and women, who want to end child with all your heart. If you’re worried their dependence on government, become about the quality of the education in the independent through hard work. We must community in which you live, you’re respon- continue to build on the success of welfare sible for doing something about it. If you’re

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a CEO in corporate America, you’re respon- chairman, and Tom Petway III and Zach Zacha- sible for telling the truth to your shareholders riah, Florida State finance cochairmen, Bush-Che- and your employees. ney ’04, Inc.; former President Saddam Hussein In a responsibility society, each of us is of Iraq; and Senators Bob Graham and Bill Nelson responsible for loving our neighbor just like of Florida. The President also referred to Title I of the Improving America’s Schools Act of 1994 we’d like to be loved ourselves. And we see (Public Law No. 103–382), which amended Title the culture of service and responsibility I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act growing around us. You know I started— of 1965 (Public Law No. 89–10). right after September the 11th, I started what’s called the USA Freedom Corps. It’s a chance for people to find out ways to ex- Remarks in a Discussion With tend a compassionate hand to a neighbor in Women Small-Business Owners need, and the response has been strong, real- January 9, 2004 ly strong. A lot of Americans—and I’m sure many The President. Thank you all. Thank you, are here—understand that patriotism can Mr. Secretary. You wrote that—you read that mean helping somebody who hurts. Chari- just like I wrote it. [Laughter] It’s good to table organizations in America are vibrant, be here at the Commerce Department. After neighborhood healing groups are really good, all, that’s what we’re here to discuss, is com- faith-based programs are strong. Police and merce and jobs and how to keep the entre- our firefighters and people who wear the Na- preneurial spirit strong in America. tion’s uniform remind us on a daily basis what Let me start off by saying, first of all, thank it means to serve something greater than you all for coming. We’re going to have an yourself. Once again, the children of America interesting discussion about what it means to believe in heroes, because they see them own your own business and risk capital and every day. employ people, what it takes to be a In these challenging times, the world has businessowner. And we’ve got five really seen the resolve and the courage of America. smart, capable women who are running their And I’ve been privileged to see the compas- own businesses. Before we get to this discus- sion and the character of the American peo- sion, though, I want to say I’m really opti- ple. All the tests of the last 3 years have come mistic about the future of our Nation’s econ- to the right nation. We’re a strong country, omy. This economy is strong, and it is getting and we use that strength to defend the peace. stronger. We’re an optimistic country, confident in I’m optimistic for one reason, because I ourselves and in ideals bigger than ourselves. just spent a little bit of time with five people Abroad, we seek to lift up whole nations by who are on the frontline of hiring. Their opti- spreading freedom. At home, we seek to lift mism was really evident, as I think you’ll soon up lives by spreading opportunity to every hear. Secondly, I’m optimistic because I see corner of America. This is the work that his- things happening. Unemployment dropped tory has set before us. We welcome it and today to 5.7 percent. That’s not good enough. know that for our country, the best days lie We want more people still working. But nev- ahead. May God bless you. Thank you for ertheless, it is a positive sign that the econ- coming. omy is getting better. I see the manufacturing orders are up dra- NOTE: The President spoke at 6:10 p.m. at the matically. I know the productivity is high in PGA National Resort. In his remarks, he referred America. Home construction is strong. All to Gov. Jeb Bush of Florida and his wife, the signs in our economy is—are very strong. Columba; former Secretary of Housing and Urban And that’s positive for somebody who might Development Mel R. Martinez; Lt. Gov. Toni Jen- nings of Florida; Charlie Crist, Florida State attor- be wondering about whether he or she is ney general; Tom Gallagher, chief financial offi- going to find a job. cer, Florida Department of Financial Services; Al Secondly, I know what we have overcome Hoffman, finance chairman, Republican National in this country. I mean, this economy has got Committee; Mercer Reynolds, national finance to be pretty darn strong to have come

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through what this Nation has come through. ference, we made a conscious decision to Just very quickly, in the beginning of 2001, make Government less intrusive into the the country was entering into a recession. I’m pocketbooks of the American people in order sure that affected you all. Recession, by the to effect economic growth. You might re- way, is when there is negative growth for member we went to the Congress, not only three quarters, when things aren’t going well once but three different times, to effect real, for three consecutive quarters. That’s a long substantial tax relief, tax relief which left period of time if you own your own business. more money in the pockets of the working It’s a long period of time if you’re looking people, tax relief which encouraged spending for a job, by the way. and saving and investment. Then, all of a sudden, as the economy was You see, we cut the taxes on everybody. getting better, the enemy hit us. And make We didn’t try to pick and choose who got no mistake about it, the attack of September the tax relief. Our attitude was, if you pay the 11th affected not only our national psy- taxes, you ought to get relief. It ought to be che, it affected the economy. It hurt. It hurt fair and simple to understand. And by the people who were thinking about risking cap- way, the tax relief had a significant impact ital. It made it hard for people to find a job. on the entrepreneurial spirit of America be- As well we had a problem that fall when cause a lot of people who own their own it turned out some of our corporate citizens small business pay taxes at the individual in- failed to live up to the responsibilities of lead- come tax rate. They’re what you’ll hear as ership. They didn’t tell the truth to their a Subchapter S corp or a sole proprietorship. shareholders and their employees. That af- And so when you cut the taxes on the individ- fected the psyche of the American investor. uals, you’re really cutting the taxes on busi- You know, capitalism is only as strong as the ness, small businesses. And after all, that’s integrity of the people involved in the proc- important, because most small businesses— ess. And these leaders will tell you that you’ve or small businesses create the most new jobs. got to be open with your employees. Other- Seventy percent of new jobs are created by wise, they’re not going to work for you very small-business owners and entrepreneurs. hard. In this case, these corporate criminals The tax relief was important. had a negative effect on the country. We had incentives in there for people try- And then, of course, I made some tough ing to raise a family by raising the child cred- decisions about how to secure America and it. We reduced the marriage penalty. Heck, keep the peace by spreading freedom, and we want a Tax Code that encourages mar- we marched to war. It is not conducive to riage, not discourages marriage. It doesn’t economic growth to see on your TV screens, make any sense to say, ‘‘If you’re married, ‘‘America is marching to war.’’ It’s not a very you get to pay more tax.’’ positive, optimistic message to hear if you’re We gave small-business owners incentives thinking about risking capital. Who wants to to invest by raising the deductibility limits. take risk when we’re marching to war? And I think you’ll hear some discussion of Now we’re marching to peace, and people that today. We reduced taxes on dividends feel more comfortable about making a risky and capital gains, which was particularly im- investment. We’ve overcome a lot. And I’m portant for retired citizens who rely upon optimistic because not only do I talk to peo- dividend income to—in their latter years. ple who are optimistic all the time; I’m opti- So we did a lot. We’ve done a lot. And mistic because I recognized what this country I’m telling you, the tax relief came at the has been through. It really speaks to the en- right time and made a big difference for eco- trepreneurial spirit and ingenuity of the nomic growth. American people, is what I’m talking about. There’s more to do. First of all, every one This is a fabulous country. of these business leaders and owners will tell The system says if you work hard, you get you that if there’s uncertainty in the Tax rewarded. You can own your own business, Code, it will make it difficult for them to hopefully without a lot of Government inter- plan for the future. Businessowners like cer- ference. Speaking about Government inter- tainty. They want to know what the rules are.

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Much of the tax relief I described goes away [At this point, Ms. Connolly made brief re- soon. Congress passed the tax relief, but they marks.] didn’t make it permanent. Job creation is The President. Yes, see, Nancy hires 20— vital. Permanency in the Tax Code will mean there’s a lot of companies the size of Nancy’s more job creation. Congress must make around the country that have got this sense every part of the tax package permanent. of optimism. I mean it’s—I don’t think we These business leaders will tell you, health would have had Nancy sitting here 2 years care costs are rising and are difficult to man- ago saying, ‘‘Gosh, I look forward to hiring age. We need association health care plans 20.’’ I suspect she might have been saying, to allow small businesses to pool the risk ‘‘I hope to keep the 70.’’ A lot of small busi- across jurisdictional boundaries. Congress nesses were just hanging on to what they had must act. We need medical liability reform. during tough economic times. And now this Frivolous lawsuits drive up the costs of health leader and this entrepreneur are saying, ‘‘20 care. They affect the budgets of these small minimum,’’ it sounded like to me. And that’s businesses. They also affect the Federal how this economy works. It’s very important budget. I mean, if you think about what frivo- for people to understand it’s the cumulative lous lawsuits do to the cost of Medicare and effect of many, many hirings that take place Medicaid and veterans’ health benefits, you on a daily basis, particularly in the small-busi- understand what I’m talking about. I mean, ness sector, that affect economic growth and it’s an enormous cost to the Federal budget. vitality. We got a good bill out of the House. The Thank you for doing what you’re doing. medical liability bill is stuck in the Senate. Catherine, tell us about yourself and your We need tort reform there; we need class business, Knowledge Information Solutions. action reform; we need asbestos reform if we expect this economy to continue to grow. [Catherine Giordano, president and chief ex- We need an energy policy. Congress needs ecutive officer, Knowledge Information Solu- to give me an energy bill. I mean, it’s hard tions, Inc., Virginia Beach, VA, made brief for businesses to plan, particularly in the remarks.] manufacturing sector, if you’re wondering The President. I’m glad you’re here, where you’re going to get your next watt of Catherine, thanks. One of the things I think energy. And so we need an energy bill. Con- is very interesting for people to understand gress needs to act. Congress needs to join that Catherine just said—she said the tax this administration in listening to the voices breaks that we focused for small-business of these entrepreneurs to figure out how to owners caused her to buy new equipment keep a progrowth agenda on the forefront. and new software. Well, somebody has to So long as anybody is looking for a job in make that equipment, and somebody has to America, this administration is going to be design that software and sell it. So my point promoting a progrowth, pro-entrepreneurial is, is that it’s important for our American citi- agenda. zens to understand the ripple effect of good And I’m honored to be joined by entre- tax policy. Good tax policy encourages an preneurs, strong, strong women who have owner to make a decision. That decision then taken the lead in their businesses and are makes it more likely somebody else is going providing a great service to our country. to find a job who will provide—in the com- They’re not only providing a wonderful ex- pany that provides the product—in Cath- ample for people who are wondering wheth- erine’s case, equipment and hardware. er or not I can own my own company but It’s very important that this incentive stay whether—but providing the service of hiring in place because it is—you just heard one people and keeping them at work and caring example of the decisionmaking process that about their employees. takes place as a result of good tax policy. If I’m going to start off by Nancy Connolly. the tax policy—if Congress lets this lapse, the She is the president and CEO of Lasertone ability to deduct to $100,000 of capital equip- Corporation, Littleton, Massachusetts. Wel- ment, it would then cause her to make dif- come. ferent decisions in the out-years. And so the

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Congress needs to be mindful of what tax [Ms. Coakley David made brief remarks.] policy does to the decisionmakers, the job The President. Well, let me talk about job creators, people like Catherine who made a hiring, particularly in the construction field. rational decision based upon good policy. It’s very important for these companies to It’s my honor to welcome right now—why understand who they’re hiring. I’m excited don’t we go with Sharon Evans. Sharon is about the fact that you’re expanding your job the CEO of CFJ Manufacturing, Fort Worth, base. I just want to make sure that you stay Texas. legal in your hiring practice. And we’ve got [Ms. Evans made brief remarks and con- a problem here—— cluded by saying that she anticipated 25-per- Ms. Coakley David. It’s a big concern as cent growth next year which she believed was well for us, and I appreciate you bringing due to tax benefits.] that up. The President. It’s got to be a big con- The President. I disagree. I think it’s re- cern. Well, I’m talking about this immigra- lated to vision and hard work and the Texas tion issue that I brought up. My attitude is, spirit. The tax relief helped, but none of any time an employer can’t find an American these women should discount their courage worker to do the job, that—in this case, she and their vision and their willingness to take ought to be able to hire a willing foreign risk and to make wise decisions. worker, so long as that foreign worker has Ms. Evans. I do have to commend you got a—we’re going to issue a new card, a too, as well as—we utilize and we are a cer- temporary-worker card. tified women-owned business, and your sup- I don’t like the idea of having an undocu- port of women in business has increased my mented economy in the greatest country on customer base, which has, in fact, grown my the face of the Earth, where people walk business as well. miles across deserts at the hands of some- The President. Yes, I think it’s very im- times these ‘‘coyote’’ border smugglers who portant—what she’s talking about is con- treat these people inhumanely. They get into tracting. For example, at the Federal Gov- our society. They’re doing work, but they’re ernment, we ought to bust these contracts doing work in an undocumented way, not down to smaller sizes. The role of contracting aboveboard but below the surface. They can at the Federal level—the proper role of con- get exploited and have no recourse. And it’s tracting obviously is to get good service for just flat wrong in America. And we ought the Government but at the same time have to recognize the system hasn’t worked. the added dividend of enhancing the entre- And so I proposed a plan that is a worker preneurial spirit, is encouraging small-busi- plan. It is not an automatic path to citizen- ness ownership, is to really achieve what we ship, what they call amnesty. It is a plan that want to achieve, and that is to expand the recognizes reality in a commonsense way, so ownership society in America. that when Maria’s company starts expanding And by the way, the role of Government and she can’t find somebody to lay tar on is not to create wealth but the environment a hot August day and somebody else wants in which the entrepreneur can flourish. Make to because they’ve got a family to feed, she no mistake about it, the role of Government can find this person, and the person will show is to create the architecture in which people up to work. And by the way, that person are willing to take risk and make choice. But ought to be able to go back to his or her that doesn’t happen unless somebody’s got family without being harassed, to be able to a good idea, works hard, dreams big, treats take money home, which is what they’re try- their employees with respect, and is capable. ing to do. So thank you for giving Government the So this is a commonsense plan. It makes credit, but we don’t deserve it. eminent sense. It recognizes the reality of Let me call upon Maria Coakley David. today’s workplace. We want our employers She is the CFO of C.J. Coakley, Inc., right to be aggressive at hiring people, but we here in Falls Church, Virginia. Thanks for don’t want them breaking the law. And we’ve coming, Maria. And thank you for the hat. got to recognize, in this society, there are

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just simply some jobs that are not being filled have got to recognize how special America by American citizens. is, and how lucky we are to be Americans Ms. Coakley David. You’re correct, and in this country, and how a lot of really decent it is definitely a big concern for our company. people would like to join us. We’ve just got We probably have 70 percent Hispanic work- to make sure the system is orderly and fair force. We’ve recently hired a bilingual recep- and meets national objectives. tionist to help us communicate effectively. Lurita—Lurita Doan is with us. She is the We have a lot of our newsletters translated president and CEO of New Technology in Spanish. And we do have to face the facts, Management in Reston, Virginia. Welcome. and we would greatly benefit from your plan. Ms. Doan made brief remarks. The President. Yes, this is important. The [ ] other thing what she’s faced with—first of The President. I’m here to thank you all. all, the fact that you’ve got a Hispanic work- I think the—I hope you come away with the force means you’re doing well. These are fine same sense of optimism I do about the future people, we know well in Texas. They’re great of this country when you hear these five people—great people. women speak. I mean, this is a country which But there’s a lot of false documentation. speaks to five entrepreneurs here on the What kind of society is it where the system stage and says, ‘‘Dream big and go for it. Live allows for false documentation, falsifying your dream.’’ Can you imagine a country these different papers so Maria is not sure where a woman like Lurita walks in to whether or not she’s dealing with somebody Kinko’s and says, ‘‘I think I’ll start a business she ought to be dealing with? We need to by printing my first business card,’’ and here make this aboveboard. And by the way, it she is, 13 years later, speaking to the Nation is humane to treat people with respect, cit- about a business which is thriving and is izen or not citizen. We want to treat people going to hire 75 new people. with the utmost respect in this country. This It’s a fabulous country, where people can is America. It’s the greatest country on the dream big dreams and people can risk—take face of the Earth. We’re not giving special risk and achieve their dreams through hard privilege. They don’t get to butt in line where work, clear vision, and a good idea. It’s hard somebody who wants to go through the proc- to be a small-business owner, particularly in ess in a legal way. We’re just recognizing re- hard times. It’s easier when the whole econ- ality in a commonsensical way. It’s the right omy is growing, but it’s even hard then. It’s thing to do. hard to make the right decisions. But obvi- ously, I’m surrounded by success, people [Ms. Coakley David made additional re- who have been able to realize their dreams marks.] and accomplish what is not easy to accom- The President. You know, one of the most plish. meaningful things that’s happened to me Government can help, but we can’t make since I’ve been the Governor—the Presi- these women smart; we can’t make them dent—Governor—President. [Laughter] dream; we can’t make them compassionate. Oops—[laughter]—ex-Governor. I went to These are choices they’ve made. And our job Bethesda Naval Hospital to give a fellow a is to stand with them and to serve as a wind Purple Heart, and at the same moment at their back as they provide not only valuable watched him—get a Purple Heart for action goods and services but, more importantly for in Iraq—and at that same—right after I gave me right now and for the country, is to pro- him the Purple Heart, he was sworn in as vide a chance for somebody to find work— a citizen of the United States, a Mexican cit- find work so they can fulfill their obligations izen now a United States citizen. as a mom or a dad. It’s a pretty special country, isn’t it, where I want to thank you all for joining us. people are willing to come not only to work Thank you for being great Americans. I ap- to provide for their families but to wear this preciate you helping me to explain how our Nation’s uniform and to go into harm’s way economy works and why we should be opti- for our peace and security. And Americans mistic about our future. May God bless your

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endeavors and God bless you all. May God with us. His Excellency, thank you for being continue to bless our great country. Thank here, sir. you very much. I appreciate Carl Anderson, the Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus, and Do- NOTE: The discussion began at 10:45 a.m. at the rian for joining us today. Department of Commerce. In his remarks, the I’m sorry my neighbor His Eminence President referred to Secretary of Commerce Donald L. Evans. Theodore Cardinal McCarrick is not with us, a decent man. [Laughter] I really, really am proud to call him friend. He’s a really good Remarks to the National Catholic guy, as we say in Texas. Educational Association I appreciate you all coming. I really do. January 9, 2004 Thanks for being here. Catholic educators share the basic convic- Welcome, please. Thanks for coming. tion that every child can learn, and every Please be seated. Thanks for coming. child can learn to lead a life of service. That’s [Laughter] Welcome to the people’s house. a pretty good mission statement, isn’t it? Let We’re glad you’re here. us teach every child to read and write and The last 100 years, the leadership of the add and subtract, and as we do so, let us National Catholic Education Association has teach every child to serve a cause greater been vital in advancing the work of Catholic than self. The whole Nation benefits because schools around the Nation and, therefore, of the good scholars and good citizens who has been vital to the hopeful future of Amer- graduate from Catholic schools. That is a ica. I’m honored to join you for celebrating fact. your 100th anniversary. And this is a fitting Through your faith in every child—and I place to celebrate the anniversary. emphasize ‘‘every child’’—Catholic schools Catholic schools carry out a great mission, have overcome challenges and experienced to serve God by building knowledge and remarkable results. It is well known that character of our young people. It’s a noble Catholic schools operate on small budgets. calling. It’s an important part of the fabric [Laughter] The per-pupil cost in a Catholic of America. By teaching the Word of God, school classroom is substantially below the you prepare your students to follow a path per-pupil costs of many other schools, public of virtue and compassion and sacrifice for the or private. rest of their lives. And by insisting on high And yet, the results are astonishing: 2.6 standards for academic achievement, Catho- million students who attend Catholic schools lic schools are a model for all schools around will graduate—that’s 99 percent—and almost our country. all go to college. Even though the per-pupil I was hoping to run into a fellow Texan expenditure per classroom is low, the results today. [Laughter] His Excellency Gregory are extremely high. And it says something is Aymond is the bishop from Austin, Texas. going right—[laughter]—starting with the [Laughter] He is—I’m glad there’s only a fact that Catholic schools have high expecta- handful of Texans here. [Laughter] The tions. You challenge what I call the soft big- bishop is the board chair of the National otry of low expectations. You believe in the Catholic Education Association, and I want worth of every person and every child. You to thank you for joining us. believe that inherent in every child is the ca- I appreciate Michael Guerra. Michael pacity to learn. And you refuse to quit on Guerra is the president of the National any child. Catholic Education Association. Michael, The Catholic schools understand that love thank you, and thank you for all the board and discipline go hand in hand. The Catholic members who graciously had a picture taken schools are willing to change curriculum if in the Blue Room with me. I appreciate you it doesn’t work. The Catholic schools some- doing that. times meet longer hours than some would His Excellency John Cummins, who is the expect is the norm. Take LaSalle Academy, bishop emeritus of Oakland, California, is a Catholic school in Philadelphia. Students

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attend classes from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the write and add and subtract. And if not, let’s school year is several weeks longer than aver- solve the problem early, before it’s too late.’’ age. Whatever it takes to make sure no child In other words, we’ve introduced account- is left behind, the Catholic schools do. ability into the system for the first time, in- In addition to learning to read and write, sisted upon accountability, and then said, students take courses in computers and ‘‘Let’s have enough money available to cor- music and art. At David McDonough, the rect problems.’’ And so now the States must principal of the school said this, ‘‘We bom- test regularly, every year. And if the cur- bard them’’—that would be his students— riculum isn’t working, you change it. And if [laughter]—‘‘We bombard them with love, it is working, there will be plenty of praise. attention, and work, and they thrive.’’ If the math programs aren’t working, change An important part of the Catholic edu- them, because we now expect results. Be- cation is the commitment to serving what our cause like the Catholic schools, we believe society calls the disadvantaged student, re- in the worth of every child. We’re chal- gardless of religious affiliation. I appreciate lenging the soft bigotry of low expectations that a lot. These are the students who some- by raising the standard and refusing to accept times in the public school system are deemed the status quo when our children are not to be uneducable and, therefore, are just learning. moved through the system. The Catholic We’ve also done something different as well. We’ve insisted that these schools post schools have done our country a great service results. It’s an interesting phenomena to see by a special outreach to minority children, a parent react when the expectation isn’t met who make up 26 percent of the enrollment for a public school. In other words, every- of our Catholic schools. This is a great service thing may be fine, and all of a sudden the to those children and their parents and our test scores are revealed and, oops, my school country. is not doing like I thought it was doing and, Catholic schools have a proven record of therefore, I, a parent, should become more bringing out the best in every child, regard- involved in my child’s school when I see fail- less of their background. And every school ure. in America should live up to that standard. But even beyond that, we’ve begun intro- We want our public schools to live up to the ducing to the system for the first time at the standard you have set in Catholic schools. Federal level the capacity to take Federal I signed what’s called the No Child Left money and spend that money in the private Behind Act. It is the most historic education sector to get special tutorials. In other words, reform in a generation. It actually passed if a child is trapped in a school which is failing with bipartisan support, which is unusual for and won’t change, after a reasonable period Washington these days. [Laughter] Let me of time, there is some money that follows tell you a little bit about the philosophy be- the child and the child can take that money, hind the law, and I think you’ll find it to be the parent can take that money and get his reminiscent. or her child additional tutoring—at a public First, the law assumes that every child can facility, private charity, or at a Catholic learn and, therefore, expects every child to school. learn. We’ve increased Federal spending and And so all of a sudden the No Child Left now, for the—at the Federal level, primarily Behind Act not only demands accountability, for Title I students, many of whom would but we’ve also started to empower parents be—go to your schools, if they went to the— to make additional choices for their child would be eligible for this program if they when the child is trapped into a school that went to public schools, many of your students won’t change. And that includes, by the way, would be eligible for this program. But in not only private tutoring but also a additional return we now expect results. See, we believe public school, a different—in other words, every child can learn, and therefore, we’re what we’re trying to do is introduce parental saying to States, ‘‘You must measure to show involvement through accountability stand- us whether a child has learned to read and ards.

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Parents, I believe—and I believe we ought a change in education around the country, to expand this opportunity further, which for the sake of helping the Catholic schools we’re trying to do here in Washington, DC. in the DC area fulfill their mission, meet And I want to describe to you right quick their obligation, and to continue doing the what this administration has done, where you excellent work they’re doing, the Senate can help a little bit in perhaps influencing needs to pass this bill and make school choice the process, to begin what I think is a major in Washington, DC, a reality. reform. I want to build on this vital reform. I’m As you know, the Government is respon- going to ask Congress to provide 50 million sible for much of the education in Wash- new dollars in this year’s budget for what we ington, DC. And so working with people in call a national choice incentive fund. The Congress, we decided to expand on the spirit program would award Federal grants to com- of the No Child Left Behind Act and intro- munities and organizations that help stu- duce school choice here in Washington. dents, especially those from low-income fam- Under this program the Federal Government ilies and those trapped in under-performing would provide what’s called scholarships to schools, to find a better education, become low-income families with children in under- seed money for additional programs like the performing schools—these families whose DC choice program I just described to you. children clearly need better choices; if you’re The initiative has a simple goal, yet it’s a going to an under-performing school, you profound goal, to help more parents send need a better choice—would receive a schol- their children to the school that is best for arship of up to $7,500, Federal money, to them, no matter what kind of school it is. help meet the cost of tuition at any school When parents have more control over their of the parents’ choice, a private school or a children’s education, children have a better Catholic school, for that matter. chance to learn, schools have a better incen- I suspect that this program would have a tive to improve. lot of takers when we can get it funded, be- Much of what is behind the No Child Left cause I think some parents, any parent, re- Behind Act, the spirit and the philosophy of gardless of his or her income status, wants the No Child Left Behind Act, came from the best for their child. And when they begin the examples set by the Catholic schools. It’s to feel like the school isn’t meeting the child’s a sense of what is possible. It is a sense that needs, it’s just natural that they be looking everybody has worth, that each soul matters. for an alternative. The Catholic school system And therefore, we will not accept systems here in DC provides a really good alternative. that just shuffle people through. And the Federal Government is now willing Everyone involved in the National Catho- to help fund that alternative. lic Education Association can look back with The good news is education is a priority pride over 100 years of excellence. And that’s in DC. The Mayor, a good fellow and a what we’re here to celebrate today, 100 years strong leader, recognizes the advantages of of excellence. You are serving God by serving having a school choice program. Mayor Tony our children. You are making America a Williams is a strong supporter of the initiative stronger and more compassionate country, we put forth on Capitol Hill. The House one child at a time. Congratulations and passed a bill that provides $14 million for thank you. this $7,500 per child scholarship program. It is a part of the Senate omnibus bill—that’s what we call it, an omnibus bill—that has NOTE: The President spoke at 2:10 p.m. in the yet to be passed. The omnibus bill contains East Room at the White House. In his remarks, a lot of other parts of the appropriations he referred to Bishop Gregory J. Aymond of Aus- tin, TX; Dorian Anderson, wife of Carl Anderson, process. The Senate is getting ready to come Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus; and back into town. For the sake of educational Theodore Cardinal McCarrick, Archbishop of excellence and for the sake of trusting par- Washington, DC. He also referred to Title I of ents to make the right decision for their chil- the Improving America’s Schools Act of 1994 dren, for the sake, really, of helping to begin (Public Law No. 103–382), which amended Title

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I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act Programs will also work with Federal depart- of 1965 (Public Law No. 89–10). ments and agencies to develop new work- place strategies to improve safety and health at high injury rate sites, assist them in im- Memorandum on the Safety, Health, proving the timeliness of reporting claims and Return-to-Employment through electronic and other means, and (SHARE) Initiative guide them in providing suitable work and January 9, 2004 tools for injured and disabled employees. Federal supervisors and managers must Memorandum for the Heads of Executive focus management tools and resources on Departments and Agencies eliminating unsafe and unhealthy working Subject: The Safety, Health, and Return-to- conditions. Federal employees should be en- Employment (SHARE) Initiative couraged to perform their jobs safely, effec- The cost of Federal workplace injuries, tively, and alertly to remain injury-free. when measured by workers’ compensation Dedication to ensuring our Government losses, is more than $2 billion and 2 million workforce family is safe and healthy pre- lost production days annually. In fiscal year serves the resources of Government and 2003, the Federal workforce of almost 2.7 helps promote the delivery of Government million filed more than 168,000 injury claims. services to the American people. Behind these numbers lie pain and suffering George W. Bush by workers and their families. Clearly, Gov- ernment agencies should strive to do more NOTE: An original was not available for to improve workplace safety and health and verification of the content of this memorandum. reduce the costs of injury to workers and tax- payers. Many workplace injuries are prevent- able. Therefore, I am establishing SHARE: Digest of Other Safety, Health, and Return-to-Employment White House Announcements Initiative, a safe workplace initiative for fiscal years 2004–2006. The initiative’s four goals cover the most important elements of a The following list includes the President’s public strong safety and health management pro- schedule and other items of general interest an- gram: lower workplace injury and illness case nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and rates, lower lost-time injury and illness case not included elsewhere in this issue. rates, timely reporting of injuries and ill- nesses, and fewer lost days resulting from January 3 work injuries and illnesses. The Secretary of In the morning, at the Bush Ranch in Labor will lead the SHARE Initiative and Crawford, TX, the President had an intel- will measure the performance of each de- ligence briefing. partment and agency against the goals. I di- In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. rect all executive branch departments and Bush returned to Washington, DC. agencies to participate in SHARE for this 3- year period. January 5 Each department and agency will collabo- In the morning, the President had a tele- rate with the Department of Labor to estab- phone conversation with President Hamid lish challenging annual goals based on its cur- Karzai of Afghanistan to congratulate the Af- rent performance in the four areas. The De- ghan Government on the adoption of a con- partment of Labor will measure and track stitution and to discuss the war on terror and agency performance, and will report to me the Kandahar-Kabul highway. Later, he had annually on each agency’s progress towards a telephone conversation with President- meeting its goals. The Department of Labor’s elect Oscar Berger of Guatemala to con- Occupational Safety and Health Administra- gratulate him on his electoral victory and to tion and Office of Workers’ Compensation discuss Guatemala-U.S. relations.

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Later in the morning, the President had 12-13 in Monterrey, Mexico. He then had an intelligence briefing. a telephone conversation with President In the afternoon, the President traveled to Lucio Gutierrez Borbua of Ecuador to dis- St. Louis, MO, where, upon arrival, he greet- cuss cooperation against terrorism and the ed USA Freedom Corps volunteer Jeff Tank. upcoming summit. Later, in the library of Pierre Laclede Ele- Later in the morning, the President had mentary School, he visited with fourth grad- an intelligence briefing. Later, he traveled to ers. Knoxville, TN, where, upon arrival, he greet- In the evening, the President returned to ed USA Freedom Corps volunteer Nathaniel Washington, DC. Foster. Later, at West View Elementary School, he visited with schoolchildren. January 6 In the afternoon, the President traveled to In the morning, the President had an intel- Palm Beach Gardens, FL, where, upon ar- ligence briefing. Later, he had a telephone rival at Palm Beach International Airport, he conversation from the Oval Office with greeted USA Freedom Corps volunteer Gor- NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe to con- don Stanley. gratulate NASA on the successful landing of In the evening, the President returned to the Mars Exploration Rover Spirit on Mars. Washington, DC. The President announced his intention to appoint Andrew B. Maner as Chief Financial January 9 Officer of the Department of Homeland Se- curity. In the morning, the President had an intel- ligence briefing and later met with the Na- January 7 tional Security Council. Later, he met with In the morning, the President had an intel- U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay ligence briefing. Khalilzad to discuss progress in Afghanistan. In the afternoon, the President attended In the afternoon, at DAR Constitution a Republican National Committee luncheon Hall, the President made remarks to Federal at the historic Evermay house in northwest agency leadership and Senior Executive Washington, DC. Service employees. The President announced his intention to Later in the afternoon, the President and appoint Linda Mysliwy Conlin as a member Mrs. Bush traveled to the Bush Ranch in of the Board of Directors of the Export-Im- Crawford, TX. port Bank of the United States. The White House announced that the The President announced his intention to President will welcome President Jose Maria appoint Charles Johnson as Chief Financial Aznar of Spain to the White House for a Officer of the Environmental Protection meeting on January 14, and that President Agency. and Mrs. Bush will host a dinner for Presi- The President announced his intention to dent and Mrs. Aznar later that evening. appoint Stephen L. Johnson as Deputy Ad- The White House announced that the ministrator of the Environmental Protection President will welcome President Aleksander Agency. Kwasniewski of Poland to the White House The President announced his intention to on January 26. appoint Gerard Schwartz as a member of the The White House announced that the National Council on the Arts. President will welcome President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey to the White January 8 House on January 28. In the morning, the President had a tele- The President announced his appointment phone conversation with President Alvaro of Matthew Kirk as Deputy Assistant for Leg- Uribe of Colombia to congratulate him on islative Affairs-Senate. Colombia’s recent successes against The President announced his intention to narcoterrorism and to discuss the Special appoint Mark Anthony Carter, John Gilbert Summit of the Americas to be held January Cruz, and Grace Flores-Hughes as members

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of the Federal Service Impasses Panel at the Fact sheet: Fair and Secure Immigration Re- Federal Labor Relations Authority. form

Released January 8 Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- Nominations retary Scott McClellan Submitted to the Senate Fact sheet: President Celebrates 2nd Anni- versary of No Child Left Behind Act

NOTE: No nominations were submitted to the Released January 9 Senate during the period covered by this issue. Transcript of a press briefing by National Se- curity Adviser Condoleezza Rice on the President’s upcoming visit to Mexico Checklist Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of of White House Press Releases President Jose Maria Aznar of Spain Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit of The following list contains releases of the Office President Aleksander Kwasniewski of Poland of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as Statement by the Press Secretary: Visit by items nor covered by entries in the Digest of Prime Minister Erdogan of Turkey to Wash- Other White House Announcements. ington Fact sheet: America’s Economy on the Path Released January 5 to Recovery Transcript of a press gaggle by Press Sec- retary Scott McClellan Released January 6 Acts Approved Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- retary Scott McClellan by the President Released January 7 NOTE: No acts approved by the President were Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- received by the Office of the Federal Register retary Scott McClellan during the period covered by this issue.

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