Posted on 06/06/2008 5:05:21 PM PDT by silent_jonny
President Bush met with officials at the American Red Cross National Headquarters in Washington to discuss the relief efforts for the millions suffering in the aftermath of the China earthquake. (Transcript)
I've just been briefed about how the United States private sector, faith-based community, NGO community is responding to what is a horrible human disaster in China -- estimated 70,000 people have died, 18,000 people missing, 15 million people homeless, and the tally is still being counted.
The president later spoke at the swearing in ceremony for new HUD Secretary Steve Preston at the Department of Housing and Urban Development in Washington. (Transcript)
President Bush departed the White House this afternoon.
Next week, the president and first lady will begin an eight day tour of Europe.
Enjoy your visit to Sanity Island 
Quote of the Day:
President Bush: This is a time of turbulence in the housing market and slow growth for our overall economy …At a time when Americans are concerned about higher gas prices, Congress needs to pass legislation that will allow for the expansion of American energy production.
In this period of economic uncertainty, the last thing Americans need is a massive tax increase -- so Congress needs to send a clear message that the tax relief that we passed will be made permanent. (Applause.)
Unfortunately, these policies are being blocked by the Democratic Congress. So I call on congressional leaders to put partisanship aside, and work with me to enact these important initiatives for the American people.
Photo of the Day:
President George W. Bush looks on as White House Chief of Staff Joshua Bolten administers the oath of office to Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Steve Preston, Friday, June 6, 2008 in Washington, D.C. Holding the Bible for the ceremonial swearing-in is Molly Preston, wife of Secretary Preston. White House photo by Joyce N. Boghosian
Hi.
President Bush accompanied by, from left, Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, acting American Red Cross President Mary Elcano; American Red Cross Chair Bonnie McElveen-Hunter; Business Roundtable President John Castellani; Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice; and Chinese Ambassador Zhou Wenzhong
The saddest part of China’s disaster....The one child policy!!!
President Bush: told the folks assembled here that I'm not surprised that the American people have responded to this challenge. And the reason I'm not surprised is we're a compassionate, decent nation that cares deeply about a stranger who hurts. And so the response of the -- so far of our American citizens have been unprecedented and unparalleled in its compassion.There will be more work that needs to be done. My message to the Chinese government is, thank you for welcoming our aid. Thank you for taking a firm response to this disaster, and just know the American people care about the people of China.
President Bush speaks during the swearing in ceremony for new Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Steve Preston, Friday, June 6, 2008, at the HUD Department in Washington
President Bush: Secretary Preston will work to strengthen home ownership with the same dedication he brought to his previous job of strengthening American small business community. As the head of the SBA, Steve presided over loan guarantee programs that are similar in structure to those run by the Federal Housing Administration. And just as entrepreneurs across our nation found a trusted friend in Steve Preston, so will America's homeowners.Before coming to the SBA, Steve gained valuable financial and leadership experience in the private sector. His impressive career has taken him from investment banking to senior financial posts at major corporations. Wherever he's gone, Steve has earned the admiration of his colleagues. He takes on this new challenge with my full confidence and my trust.
…
Steve, I appreciate your stepping forward to serve your country once again. I congratulate you. Now I ask my Chief of Staff, Josh Bolten, to administer the oath of office.
President Bush, Molly Preston, and White House Chief of Staff Josh Bolten, look on as new Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Steve Preston speaks during his swearing in ceremony, Friday, June 6, 2008, at the HUD Department in Washington.
Secretary Preston: It is a profound privilege to serve our country as the Secretary for Housing and Urban Development, and to be a voice for the people that we serve. Thank you, Mr. President, for that confidence, for that trust …As we confront these challenges, we're blessed with talented and committed employees at HUD. You understand that we can make a difference. In the next few months, we will need the best efforts of every one of you in the path ahead.
Good evening, silent_jonny - great thread! Thanks for posting the pics!
Good evening and thanks for the ping
President George W. Bush waves as he departs from the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC, June 6, 2008.
(I think this was taken Wednesday or Thursday, not sure)
Mike wrote: I did my enlistment extension and took the oath in the air above Balad in a CH47 Helicopter, it was pretty cool. Extended to my 60th Birthday. It was a nice surprise they worked up for me, didn't know about it till today. … Get to keep the Flag and a certificate, which I haven't seen yet. Flight was fun.
Nice job Jonny! :) ((hugs)) & T.G.I.F.!
My pleasure :) Glad you enjoyed it.
Hi, Kas :)
T.G.I.F.!
Ain't that the truth :)
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