    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book I)]
    [April 1, 2002]
    [Pages 530-531]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at the White House Easter Egg Roll
    April 1, 2002

        Welcome to the White House. Laura and I are so glad that you came
    this year, especially given what happened last year: It rained. But
    today we have beautiful weather, and we hope you have a great time here
    at the traditional Easter egg roll.
        I want to thank all the members of my Cabinet and their family
    members who are here. I want to thank the children's book authors who
    are here. And we hope you listen to those who read books to you. We want
    to encourage you to read a lot. As a matter of fact, we think it's
    important that you read more than you watch TV.
        I want to thank the entertainers who are here. Of course, I want to
    thank the Easter Bunny. [Laughter] We want to thank all the Embassies
    that are highlighting their spring traditions. I want to thank the
    volunteers who have worked so hard to make this a successful Easter egg
    roll.
        You know, one of the things that children say to me all the time--
    they say, ``I want to come see your home, Mr. President.'' I said,
    ``This isn't our home. This is your home, and you're welcome to the yard
    of your home.'' We're so glad you're here.
        Do you know that since 1878, Presidents have hosted this event. And
    it is our honor to continue this tradition. The first President who did
    so was a guy named Rutherford B. Hayes. He decided to have the Easter
    egg roll here at the White House because the Members of the United
    States Congress said you couldn't be--they wouldn't want to host the
    Easter egg roll anymore on the congressional grounds.

    [[Page 531]]

        Just to show you we don't hold a grudge, we've invited Members of
    the U.S. Congress here. And you're welcome, and thank you all for
    coming. [Laughter]
        I also am really looking forward to starting the Easter egg roll. I
    want everybody to have a great time here. It is our honor to host you
    all. And I'd like to end by this simple--this simple statement: May God
    bless your families, and may God continue to bless the United States of
    America.

    Note: The President spoke at 9:15 a.m. on the South Lawn at the White
    House.