Kennedy Center Honors Reception
The Obamas hosted the Kennedy Center Honorees Reception in the White House’s East Room on Sunday. During the event, the president had this to say about Oprah Winfrey, one of the honorees: “She has taught us to find strength in overcoming; to take a stand for ourselves and what we know is right. And she has shown millions of people around the world – people she probably will never meet – what it means to believe in ‘the dream of your own life.’”
The Ceremony
After the reception, the president and first lady attended the Kennedy Center Honors at the Kennedy Center. Notable honorees include talk show host Oprah Winfrey, choreographer and dancer Bill T. Jones, Tony Award-winning composer Jerry Herman, county music singer Merle Haggard and former Beatle Paul McCartney.
Phoning China
Sunday evening, the president called President Hu Jintao of China to discuss the importance of peace in Northeast Asia. During the call, according to a White House statement, Obama “condemned the North Korean shelling of a South Korean island on November 23 and its pursuit of a uranium enrichment program in defiance of its obligations. He urged China to work with us and others to send a clear message to North Korea that its provocations are unacceptable."
College Visit
On Monday, the president traveled to Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem, N.C., where he took a tour of two biotech classrooms. Afterward, Obama spoke to students, faculty and surrounding business heads about the economy.
Meetings
The president attended meetings at the White House on Tuesday.
Polish Visit
The president welcomed his Polish counterpart, Bronislaw Komorowski, to the White House on Wednesday. During their Oval Office meeting, the two leaders discussed the proposed U.S.-Russia nuclear arms treaty. On Thursday, according to reports, Komorowski will visit a Polish community in Cleveland.
National Christmas Tree Lighting
The First Family will attend the National Christmas Tree Lighting on the Ellipse in Washington, D.C. Maroon 5 and blues singer B.B. King are scheduled to perform. President Obama is scheduled to attend White House meetings the next day.
“Simple Gifts”
First lady Michelle Obama is gearing up for a busy holiday season in which the White House is expected to see 100,000 tourists. “Simple Gifts” is the theme of this year’s celebration. “In the end, the greatest blessings of all are the ones that don't cost a thing: the time that we spend with our loved ones, the freedoms we enjoy as Americans, and the joy we feel from reaching out to those in need,” she said.
Holiday Plans
On Dec. 18, the First Family will head to Honolulu, Hawaii for their annual Christmas vacation.
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