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First Family Values

Thursday, October 25, 2012
By James A. "Bud" Bottoms, Santa Barbara

In my 85 years, I have seen many presidents and their families occupy the White House, but I feel most fortunate to have lived to see the Obama family living there. There are a “typical” American family of four, plus grandmother and dog.

The Obamas are more than a president and a first lady; they are a National Treasure. Being from immigrant ancestors and mixed races, they personify the Unite states. They are from middle class background and have achieved the ultimate American Dream.

Because of the media, their lives have become a showcase for the world: We see a happy marriage, President Obama’s cool and discerning demeanor, his youthful athletic love for basketball. We watch Michelle as she promotes healthy living for kids by planting a vegetable garden on the White House grounds. They are a committed couple, well educated, and good-ethics role models.

We see two little girls growing into young women and a grandmother helps keep an eye on them. And, finally, the family dog, Bo, whom we watched as a puppy that grows into a healthy dog, well loved by his family.

I’m always filled with pride when world leaders visit the White House for an elegant reception and dinner or when the Obamas put on elaborate music concerts. I am filled with joy at the holidays when children are invited to the White House for an Easter egg hunt, a Thanksgiving turkey reprieve, and, especially, for Christmas, with the big tree decorated that lights up the White House’s snow-covered lawn.

When children fill the halls with life and laughter, I’m reminded of the Kennedy’s, Caroline and John-John, the Bush’s teenage girls and the Clintons with Chelsea. It lightens the heavy load of government and politics.

To me, the Obamas represent a strong, loving family with good values. In fact, they have become models for this country and beyond. They inspire me. And I, for one, want to see them occupying out White House for four more years!

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