For Immediate Release
Office of Mrs. Bush
May 9, 2003
Remarks by Mrs. Bush at National Dance Institute Gala - Santa Fe
Thank you, Roland. Thank you, Governor Richardson, Mayor Delgado,
and distinguished guests, for your warm welcome to Santa Fe and to the
new home of the National Dance Institute. With its extraordinary
dancers and impressive stage this new center is a welcome addition to
the already dynamic art scene in Santa Fe.
Thank you, Catherine, for expanding the National Dance Institute in
New Mexico. Tonight's performance was yet another example of your
dedication - and a great example of what can happen when children are
inspired to share their gifts with the world. And the dancers deserve
another round of applause for tonight's performance. I wonder if the
President would consider video games and unlimited candy to be good
campaign promises.
With good humor, this production teaches a valuable lesson for
children, and every one of us. Each of us should strive to be a good
citizen. The National Dance Institute helps children feel good about
themselves - and you should feel good about supporting this great
program for New Mexico's children.
Tonight, we celebrate children - their talent and creativity, and
the dedication of the teachers who inspire them to leap, clap and dance
out their dreams. Jacques d'Amboise is one of those dedicated teachers.
Jacques has never forgotten where he came from or the teachers who
helped him become one of the world's great dancers. Through the
National Dance Institute he is sharing the gift of dance with children
who otherwise might never have the chance to study the arts.
Just as Jacques's love of dance inspired him to succeed, National
Dance Institute programs inspire young people to succeed. Today, almost
four thousand kids across the state - from cities to reservations - are
gaining a greater sense of character and confidence.
Through programs at NDI, New Mexico's young people are growing up
stronger and smarter - and more prepared for what the world holds. More
children are tuning into tap and jazz instead of television. More
participate in performances than in violence. Rather than give up, they
give in to the joy of dance and music.
Here in Santa Fe and in every NDI program, children learn in a safe
environment where they make new friends and spend time with caring
adults. Through performances and exhibitions, children are recognized
and applauded for their accomplishments. As they express themselves and
have fun, they learn self-discipline and teamwork.
Catherine once said that NDI "isn't really about teaching kids to
dance, it's about teaching kids life skills." Catherine knows these
skills affect every part of a child's life - especially their
education. A study of the arts is vital to a child's development -
helping to develop vocabulary, critical thinking and an appreciation of
different cultures.
I commend Catherine, Jacques, and all of the students here for
their hard work and commitment. And thanks to all of you for supporting
the National Dance Institute. A special thanks to the Santa Fe Public
School Board for donating the land for this new center so that even
more children will benefit from the arts and dance - so that like Jo
every child can dream of being President and have the confidence to
follow their dreams. Thank you.
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