I am awed by George W. Bush. He is such a down to earth guy. The nightly comedians get their laughs from every human thing he's done. But I cannot remember a President who reached out and touched the heart of Americans like this one. The Gipper stood out, of course...but he always was in the American Aristocracy, who thanks be to the Lord, was also a Conservative. George W. Bush came to office with a knowledge of what he wanted to do for the country. And then came 9/11/2001. I have never been prouder of my country and it's ability to bring out the best in her citizens. George W. Bush responded with an integrity and will of iron. He may change his tactics as the field requires, but he is strong that this country, Our USA, and our brave troops in the field, Will Prevail. No matter how many lose heart, whether it's just "him, Laura and Barney", he stands Tall. I am so impressed...
And Tony...
I always enjoyed Tony Snow...long before he even became Rush's Best Substitute Host, the Chicago Tribune would run pieces from his Detroit writings. When the internet came of age, his well reported and written columns graced Townhall and other publications for "smart people". Tony IS Smart, smarter than those who work with him, but he never ACTs it. He's a guy who listens. And is the best reporter in DC even now...and that includes Novak.
I talked to Tony four times on the air, twice when Rush wasn't there (it was always easier to get thru on the Rush line), and twice on Tony's show and Tony always treated me...and everyone else, including the crazies...with decency and respect.
When I was on the West Coast, Tony's show was on the radio at god-Awful 6 a.m....working at home, my brain would wake up to Tony gently educating, reporting and occasionally in good humor reminding callers of the facts.
Tony's illness coincided with my move to the East Coast, and frankly, I worried he wouldn't pull through. His constant reference to the faith he had in the prayers of his callers and the love of his family was an inspiration to me as I had several severe illnesses I have been battling.
When Tony would occasionally complain about the communication skills of those trying to get the President's Voice heard, I sometimes remarked on these very FReep pages he was kind enough to always participate in, that if he thought he could do better, he SHOULD. I never thought the opening would come, and if it came, I never thought his wife would let him...Lord knows, the man had a right to his private life...
The dignity he has brought to the zoo of the Press Room has been awesome. Tony NEVER puts down the reporters I want to punch...David Gregory and Helen Thomas. He LIKES these people...His grace, knowledge and good cheer, have been an inspiration to us all and I hope the President he serves.
Just before he took the job as Press Secretary, St. Patrick's Day rolled around, and he was giving away those Vermont Teddy Bears, looking for caller 17. Since I listen to XM which is usually on a 40 second delay, I didn't have a prayer I'd win the bear. But surprise of surpise, the phone actually rang instead of a busy signal and TONY answered HIMSELF...you're caller 17! Well, I didn't have a particular need for the Bear, but my Thai wife loves things like that, and I told him so and he said he was honored I listen and happy to send the bear off. He could have said anything or even left it to a staffer, but he did it himself, got all my information in the commercial break, and it came a few days later (and yeah, my wife was thrilled)... And now he's the Press Secretary to the best President I have known ...
So anyhow, Thank You Mr. President for being you and for picking Tony Snow as your Spokesman...and Tony...may you have save passage through the shoals and I just have a hunch you are destined for Greater Things...
Thank you and Thank Providence for putting you both where you are...
Thank you so much for sharing your story and your long time support of Tony......as well as your support for our President.
Neat Post LL.. thank you.