[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 50 (Monday, December 19, 2005)]
[Page 1865]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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 7:00 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.