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THE PRESIDENT: Thanks for the warm welcome. I appreciate such a generous welcome. Marianne, thank you for your introduction, and congratulations on being the Small Business Person of the Year. You had some pretty stiff competition. (Laughter.) I appreciate the courage that Marianne has shown and her determination to succeed. She is proof that the entrepreneurial spirit in America is really strong.

I want to thank Hector Barreto, the SBA Administrator. I appreciate the fine job he's done. (Applause.) It was my honor to meet some of the state Small Business Person of the Year honorees. Congratulations. I appreciate the ambassadors who are here. Embajadores, thank you for coming. And I appreciate you all giving me a chance to come by and visit with you. (Laughter and applause.)

What is it with Bush and the word "appreciate"? Does he get paid a royalty every time he uses it?

[GGpaX4DumpedTea]

"What is it with Bush and the word "appreciate"?"

He probably would say, 'I appreciate your noticing" ... :)