    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book II)]
    [December 11, 2005]
    [Page 1858]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at ``Christmas in Washington''
    December 11, 2005

        Thank you all. Thank you very much. Laura and I have really enjoyed
    the program tonight. We want to thank all the entertainers for their
    wonderful performances. I thank Dr. Phil and Robin for being such fine
    emcees for this event. I want to thank Carrie Underwood, CeCe Winans, Ciara, Jane Monheit, Rascal Flatts,
    The Click Five, and all the performers and choirs that were here.
        We particularly want to thank George Stevens, the executive producer of ``Christmas in Washington,''
    and his wife, Liz, as well as Michael
    Stevens, who's the producer and director
    of ``Christmas in Washington,'' and his wife, Ali, who is the talent producer for ``Christmas in
    Washington.'' I thank Dick Parsons, who
    is the chairman and the CEO of Time Warner, and his wife,
    Linda.
        In this season of giving, we count our blessings, and we remember
    that we are called on to do good works for those in need. On a special
    day in Bethlehem, the birth of a child brought hope to the world. And at
    this time of year, we are especially grateful to those whose work brings
    hope and health to children.
        ``Christmas in Washington'' supports the Children's National Medical
    Center. All year long, the doctors and nurses and staff of this hospital
    are providing care, restoring health, and putting the light back into
    the eyes of children. I thank tonight's sponsors and contributors for
    their support of this important work.
        As we celebrate the holidays, we also remember the men and women who
    serve and defend America. Our military men and women and their families
    have the support and the gratitude of our entire Nation.
        To all Americans, Laura and I wish you a
    joyful and peaceful holiday season. God bless you all, and Merry
    Christmas.

    Note: The President spoke at approximately 7 p.m. in the National
    Building Museum. In his remarks, he referred to television host Phillip
    ``Dr. Phil'' McGraw, and his wife, Robin; and Laura, wife of Richard D.
    Parsons. The transcript was released by the Office of the Press
    Secretary on December 15.