“One of the benefits of freedom is that people can disagree,” Mr. Bush told a crowd of thousands on a bright Texas day. “It’s fair to say I created plenty of opportunities to exercise that right. But when future generations come to this library and study this administration, they’re going to find out that we stayed true to our convictions.” - President George W. Bush
A little background on the
George W. Bush Presidential Center...
First, the
Bush Center includes the Bush Presidential Library, the Museum, and the Bush Institute. Fact sheets:
[LINK]
- 226,000 sq ft building and 15 acre urban park; 23 acres total.
- On the Southern Methodist University campus in Dallas, Texas.
- First presidential library to achieve LEED Platinum certification.
The
Bush Library will house 43,000 artifacts, including items from 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, and the 2000 election vote recount. A bit of controversy surrounds the gifts Lance Armstrong gave him, but they decided to keep those in the exhibit.
[LINK]
The
Bush Museum offers a revealing look into the decisions and events of the Bush Presidency. The Museum features important artifacts; such as a piece of the World Trade Center; an interactive Decision Points Theater where visitors make real-time crisis decisions similar to those made by President Bush; and a full-scale replica of the Oval Office complete with a Resolute Desk that visitors can sit behind.
[LINK] Details on how to visit:
[LINK]
The
Bush Institute, in President Bush's words, will be "a place of action, a results-oriented institute that will have an effect on our country and, we think, on the world.” Their programs cover economic growth, education reform, global health, human freedom, military service, and women.
[LINK]
Some pictures from the
Bush Center dedication today, from their Facebook page...
1) The 5 living Presidents take the stage. Favorite FB comment: "If you don't like that picture, you're un-American."
2) Formal photo inside the Center. I loved the elder Bush's pink socks. Favorite FB comment: "if you know anything about Bush Sr, you know his love for fun soxs. its his thang.."
3) Formal picture with the wives. There aren't too many countries in the world where you would have a peaceful gathering of all former/current leaders. Favorite FB comment: "Every man there was elected by the People, and we all should be proud they stand together for a moment in time. My hat is off to all of them!!!"
4) Four Presidents sharing a laugh before taking the stage. Favorite FB comment: "Carter is laughing cause he is no longer the worst ...."
5) The Bush Center lighted at night.