    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book II)]
    [July 6, 2006]
    [Pages 1333-1334]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks Following a Dinner With Mayor Richard M. Daley of Chicago and Business Leaders in Chicago, Illinois
    July 6, 2006

        Laura said, ``What do you want for your
    birthday?'' I said, ``I want to have dinner in Chicago with the mayor.''
    [Laughter] Thank you all for joining us. We've had a wonderful
    discussion. Chicago is a fabulous town, Mayor. And you're awfully kind
    to host us here.
        Somebody said, ``Well, what's your birthday wish?'' I've got a lot
    of birthday wishes. I hope our troops are safe. I hope Roger
    Ebert does well. That's a birthday wish. I know
    a lot of people here in Chicago are praying for him. It's been a heck of
    a birthday party tonight, and I appreciate you all joining me, and
    looking forward to having my cake.
        Thanks for coming.

    [[Page 1334]]

    Note: The President spoke at 8:21 p.m. in the Chicago Firehouse
    Restaurant. In his remarks, he referred to Chicago Sun-Times film critic
    Roger Ebert, who had emergency surgery on July 2. A tape was not
    available for verification of the content of these remarks.