First Lady, Dr. Biden To Celebrate Joining Forces Anniversary With Tour, 'Colbert Report'

Tours is April 11 & 12, with stops in Pennsylvania, Louisiana & Florida...
First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden will mark the first anniversary of the Joining Forces campaign next week on April 11 and 12, with multiple events during a two-day tour that includes stops in battleground states. After kicking the celebration off at the White House on April 11, the First and Second Ladies will travel to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Shreveport, Louisiana; and Jacksonville, Florida for large-scale events. Both have traveled the US since launching the campaign. (Above: Mrs. Obama and Dr. Biden during a Pentagon meeting on jobs)

Mrs. Obama will also travel to New York City on April 11 for an appearance on The Colbert Report. Host Stephen Colbert "has shown strong support for our troops," according to the East Wing. Mrs. Obama last appeared on the show during the 2008 campaign.

Mrs. Obama marked the two-year anniversary of the Let's Move! campaign in February, with eight events in four states, including four stops in Florida.

The news release from the East Wing:

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the First Lady
_________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 4, 2012

First Lady Michelle Obama & Dr. Jill Biden to Celebrate First Anniversary of Joining Forces

April 11th and 12th visits include White House kick off; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Shreveport, Louisiana; and Jacksonville, Florida

WASHINGTON – On April 11, 2012, First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden will kick off a two-day tour celebrating the first anniversary of Joining Forces, their initiative to recognize, honor and serve military families. Since launching Joining Forces on April 12th, 2011, significant progress has been made to rally Americans around military families. Communities, businesses, schools, faith groups, non-profit organizations and individual Americans have made substantial commitments to show military families the support that they deserve. Through collaborative efforts with Joining Forces, these groups have helped thousands of veterans and military families find jobs, improved educational opportunities for military children, supported our nation’s wounded warriors and their caregivers, and honored our nation’s fallen. The Joining Forces two-day tour will highlight examples of organizations and companies that have made significant commitments to support military families.

First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden created Joining Forces to bring Americans together to recognize, honor and take action to support veterans and military families as they serve our country and throughout their lives. The initiative aims to educate, challenge, and spark action from all sectors of society to ensure veterans and military families have the support they have earned. The initiative focuses on key priority areas – employment, education, and wellness -- while raising awareness about the service, sacrifice, and needs of America’s veterans and military families. More information is available at: www.JoiningForces.gov.

The First Lady and Dr. Biden’s Joining Forces tour schedule is below:

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

White House * 11:00 AM ET * Anniversary Celebration

First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden will kick off a celebration for military families and organization leaders that have played key roles in supporting our nation’s troops, veterans and families. Finalists of the Joining Forces Community Challenge will be the celebration’s special guests. Late last year, Mrs. Obama and Dr. Biden launched the Challenge to recognize and celebrate citizens, communities, and organizations who have demonstrated a deep commitment to service by improving the lives of military families and veterans. Hundreds of submissions were received and twenty finalists who found innovative ways to show their gratitude and support at the local level were chosen. These twenty finalists will travel from across the country to be honored at the White House. The finalists will be joined by the Challenge’s notable judges, Tom Brokaw – who will deliver opening remarks, J.R. Martinez, San Antonio Mayor Julián Castro, USO President Sloan Gibson and Deanie Dempsey, wife of General Martin Dempsey.

The Missouri Air National Guard's 571st Air Force Band “Sidewinder” will perform at the event. Last year, a fan’s video of the band performing at an airbase in Southwest Asia went viral on YouTube and garnered national attention.

University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia * 2:15 PM ET* Nurses Nationwide Join Forces to Support Veterans and Military Families

First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden will announce a major initiative by more than 150 of America’s leading nursing organizations and more than 450 nursing schools in 50 states and territories to ensure our nation’s nurses are prepared to help meet the unique health needs of service members, veterans, and their families. Nursing leaders have committed to educating current and future nurses on how to recognize and care for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and other combat-related issues. Collectively, this effort will reach over three million nurses in nearly every health care setting and every community in America.

New York City * The Colbert Report

First Lady Michelle Obama will appear on The Colbert Report to discuss her Joining Forces initiative. Host Stephen Colbert has shown strong support for our troops, including bringing his show to Iraq, broadcasting special episodes to honor returning troops, performing at numerous USO events and getting a military-style hair cut to show his solidarity with those in uniform. Military families of troops deployed to Afghanistan will be a part of the audience.

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Shreveport, Louisiana * 1:15 PM CT / 2:15 PM ET * Announcing Joining Forces’ 50,000th Hire

Last August, President Obama announced a series of policies to increase veterans’ employment and asked the First Lady and Dr. Biden to lead an effort through Joining Forces to challenge the private sector to hire or train 100,000 veterans and military spouses by the end of 2013. Well on track to exceed this goal, First Lady Michelle Obama will travel to Shreveport, Louisiana, to announce the 50,000th veteran or military spouse to have been hired by a company through the Joining Forces initiative. Mrs. Obama will visit the Kansas City Southern Railway Company, which has aggressively hired veterans in the last year because of the unique skill set that they bring to the job.

Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida * 6:00 PM ET * Honoring Young Women from Military Families

First Lady Michelle Obama will invite young women from military families to a celebration honoring their service to our nation as members of a military family. Mrs. Obama will deliver remarks to the high school junior and senior girls and their parents and reveal surprise guests who she invited for this special occasion.

###

Vice President Biden Hosts Dinner For China's Vice President Xi Jinping

Top Administration officials fete the next President of China at the Naval Observatory; the guest list and menu...
While President Obama was enjoying a quiet Valentine's Dinner with his wife on Wednesday night, Vice President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden were celebrating love bonds of a different kind: Those between the United States and China. The Second Couple hosted an elegant dinner at the Naval Observatory for Vice President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China, with Cabinet Secretaries and senior presidential advisors mingling with the Chinese Delegation. (Above: Biden offers a toast during the dinner)

The event was complete with a military cordon lining the long driveway for Xi's arrival and world class musical performances. In line to be the next President of China, Xi, 58, was feted with a three-course menu that replicated a formal dinner at the White House, where steak is always the star: Beef Tenderloin accompanied by Delaware Crab Cakes, a nod to the Bidens' homestate, and seasonal vegetables, regionally sourced. Dessert was a pear confection.

Dr. Biden was clad in a glittering sheath and the Vice President was in a dark suit as they welcomed the special guests, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Commerce Secretary John Bryson, U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk, Ambassador to China Gary Locke, Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer, National Economic Council director Gene Sperling, and President Obama's top advisor, Valerie Jarrett, as well as the official delegation from the People's Republic of China (full list below).

Geithner and Panetta were seated at the Head Table with the Bidens and Xi. Centerpieces were red and pink roses in baskets, and the tablecloths were a muted red.

Xi's visit is the second of the planned reciprocal visits between the Vice Presidents announced by President Obama and Chinese President Hu Jintao during President Hu’s State Visit to Washington in 2011; Biden visited China last August. The dinner capped a day of meetings at the White House with the President and Vice President as well as stop at the Pentagon and the US Chamber of Commerce. In between, there was a State Department luncheon for 200 guests co-hosted by Secretary Clinton, featuring a menu by acclaimed Chinese American chef Ming Tsai. (Above: The two Vice Presidents in the Library before dinner)

Xi, a former agriculture representative for his nation, first visited America 1985, and his tour of the United States this week includes a stop in the small Iowa town where he spent time as a young communist party official. Then he'll visit California, accompanied by Biden.

Following dinner, guests were treated to a performance by award-winning violinist Joshua Bell and pianist Sam Haywood, who played three selections from Gershwin, Chopin and Pablo de Sarasate. (Above: The Bidens flank Xi in the front row, watching Bell perform)

Dinner Menu In Honor of Vice President Xi Jinping

Delaware Crab Cakes
Corn salad, Macho and Basil Tartar Sauce

Balsamic Marinated Beef Tenderloin
with balsamic shallot sauce
Wild Rice and Orzo Pilaf
Roasted Root Vegetables in Ancho Honey Glaze

Packed Pears with Tulle
Finer Pear Sorbet

The wine selections were American:

*Hall Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley 2010
*Hall Cabernet Sauvignon Nappy Valley 2009

Above: the Vice President and Dr. Biden greet Xi as he arrives.

The Full Guest List:

The Honorable Tony Blinken, Deputy Assistant to the President & National Security Advisor, Office of the Vice President

The Honorable Lael Brainard, Under Secretary of the Treasury for International Affairs, Department of the Treasury

The Honorable Stephen G. Breyer, Associate Justice, The Supreme Court

The Honorable John Bryson, Secretary, Department of Commerce

The Honorable William J. Burns, Deputy Secretary, Department of State

The Honorable Kurt M. Campbell, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, State Department

Madame Chen Naiqing, Spouse, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the United States, The People's Republic of China

The Honorable Hillary Rodham Clinton, Secretary, Department of State

His Excellency Cui Tiankai, Vice Foreign Minister, The People's Republic of China

Ms. Deng Ying, Deputy Director General of the Protocol Department of MFA, The People's Republic of China

The Honorable Tom E. Donilon, Assistant to the President and National Security Advisor, Office of the National Security Advisor

The Honorable Michael B. Froman, Assistant to the President and Deputy NSA for International Economic Affairs, National Security Council

His Excellency Gao Hucheng, China International Trade Representative and Vice Minister of Commerce, The People's Republic of China

The Honorable Timothy F. Geithner, Secretary, Department of the Treasury

His Excellency Han Changfu, Minister of Agriculture, The People's Republic of China

The Honorable Valerie Bowman Jarrett, Senior Advisor and Assistant to the President for Intergovernmental Affairs and Public Engagement, White House

The Honorable Ron Kirk, U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the United States Trade Representative

The Honorable Gary Faye Locke, U.S. Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China

Mr. Lu Kang, Deputy Director General of the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs of MFA, The People's Republic of China

Mr. Ma Jisheng, Deputy Director General of the Information Department of MFA, The People's Republic of China

The Honorable Leon Panetta, Secretary, Department of Defense

The Honorable Wendy Sherman, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, State Department

His Excellency Shi Zhihong, Vice Minister of Policy Research Office of CPC Central Committee, The People's Republic of China

The Honorable Gene Sperling, Assistant to the President for Economic Policy and Director of the National Economic Council

The Honorable Tom Vilsack, Secretary, Department of Agriculture

Mr. Wang Qing, Deputy Director General of the Central Guard Bureau, The People's Republic of China

His Excellency Xi Jinping, Vice President, People's Republic of China

Mr. Xie Feng, Director-General of the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs of the MFA, The People's Republic of China

His Excellency Yang Jiechi, Minister of Foreign Affairs, The People's Republic of China

His Excellency Yuan Guiren, Minister of Education, The People's Republic of China

His Excellency Zhang Xiaoqiang, Vice Chairman of NDRC, The People's Republic of China

His Excellency Zhang Yesui, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the United States, The People's Republic of China

Mr. Zheng Yi, Political Counselor, The People's Republic of China

Mr. Zhong Shaojun, Secretary of the Vice President, The People's Republic of China

Mr. Zhou Xingbing, Security Secretary of the Vice President, The People's Republic of China

His Excellency Zhu Guangyao, Vice Minister of Finance, The People's Republic of China

Joshua Bell's bio provided by the Vice President's office:
Joshua Bell has enchanted audiences worldwide with his breathtaking virtuosity and tone of rare beauty, earning him the title “classical music superstar.” An Avery Fisher Prize recipient and Musical America’s 2010 Instrumentalist of the Year, Bell is the Academy of St Martin in the Fields’ newly named Music Director. Bell came to national attention at age 14 in his debut with Riccardo Muti and the Philadelphia Orchestra. Most recently, he has recorded the sound track for Zhang Yimou’s World War II epic film Flowers of War, China’s largest film production. Bell performs on the 1713 ex Huberman Stradivarius.

Sam Haywood bio provided by the Vice President's office:
Sam Haywood is a critically acclaimed British pianist whose performances have thrilled audiences worldwide. He frequently collaborates with Joshua Bell. Haywood began playing the piano at age four, inspired by evenings listening to crackly LPs of Beethoven Sonatas with his grandmother. Following his success at age thirteen in the BBC Young Musician of the Year competition, he received the Isserlis prize from the Royal Philharmonic Society and later studied with Paul Badura-Skoda, and at the Royal Academy of Music with the late Maria Curcio, a pupil of Artur Schnabel.

*White House photos by David Lienemann; arrival photo by pool

Rachael Ray Dishes On Her Day With First Lady Michelle Obama...And Worries About Paula Deen

Healthy school lunches, exercise, the Super Bowl, White House dating: Exclusive interview with First Lady will air on Wednesday...

By Marian Burros

Rachael Ray, talk show host and cook, couldn’t stop talking. From her interview with Michelle Obama, set to air on Feb. 1, to her anxiety about fellow chef Paula Deen, there was no dead air when Obama Foodorama caught up with her last week. Ray still hadn’t come down from her high after an appearance on Wednesday morning with the First Lady at Parklawn Elementary School in Alexandria, VA, where Mrs. Obama unveiled the new federal regulations that put more fruits and vegetables and whole grains in school meals, while removing some of the sugar, fat and sodium. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack was on hand for the long-awaited announcement, too. (Above: Mrs. Obama and Ray eat lunch with the Parklawn kids)

“There’s no more pleasurable way to spend the day than what I did,” Ray said.

Mrs. Obama gave Ray a shout out as she unveiled USDA's new standards: “I want to give a special hello to Rachael Ray, who’s a special guest here. She has been a true advocate on this issue for quite some time, and we're just thrilled that she's here with us today.”

Later, Mrs. Obama described the Southwestern showcase lunch she enjoyed in the school's cafeteria, made with Ray's recipes, as “nice and well prepared.”

Or in Ray's words, Yum-O. Mrs. Obama, Ray, and the Secretary sat down with 200 plus second and fourth graders to feast on ground turkey tacos with black beans and corn salad, brown rice, and fresh fruit and milk. And to add a little icing to the cake, Vilsack asked Ray for the taco recipe. She also joined the Secretary for a special conference call with reporters.

“It feels like a vacation," Ray said. "Because there’s good food and the joy of the First Lady coming and sitting down here and Sec. Vilsack and the kids and enjoying what will be part of the new school lunch. I love to be able to work with schools and add flavor like ground coriander and improve the kids’ palates.”

Ray interviewed Mrs. Obama in the school's library, sitting on child-sized chairs with a background of books. Ray was last at the White House in June of 2010, when she joined Mrs. Obama for the launch of the Chefs Move to Schools project. Senior Policy Advisor for Healthy Food Initiatives Sam Kass and Second Lady Jill Biden have both appeared on Ray's show.

"Mrs. Obama chatted about how excited she is about coming up on the second year" of the Let’s Move campaign, Ray said. “About the Super Bowl and exercise.”

The First Lady also discussed the dangers of having a teenage daughter who's approaching dating age: Malia Obama turned 13 last July.

"Who should the boys be more afraid of, you or your husband?" Ray asked Mrs. Obama.

Mrs. Obama also told Ray she "absolutely" misses grocery shopping now that she's in the White House.

"That's why I have my little secret Target runs," Mrs. Obama said. One of which happened to be captured on film by a veteran White House photographer who has traveled abroad with Mrs. Obama.

Ray ponders pizza as a vegetable...
Her day with the First Lady had one annoying little cloud for Ray. She said she didn’t understand why so many people insisted on mentioning that Congress had weakened the school lunch regulations by allowing a serving of pizza to be considered a vegetable (because of the tomato paste on it) and insisting that potatoes be allowed on the menu every day--including French fries. (Above: Ray in the lunchline at Parklawn)

“There’s so much good," Ray told Obama Foodorama. "It’s very exciting to see such a major and substantive turn around, seeing all of these great strides come to life.”

“I don’t think we should be focusing on pizza. Whether your opinion is it’s a problem or not a problem, you have to see the large picture: That pizza on the menu will be accompanied by leafy green vegetables."

"The only level playing field we have is the school for attacking hunger and obesity and the subsequent diabetes. Can you image the health care costs for the next generation and we’ve done this to them. There are kids under 10 who are already on diabetes medication. I feel so sorry for them.”

Healthy recipes, promotional deals, and Deen...
Diabetes, cooking show hosts. Paula Deen recently announced she has diabetes, in fact she has had it for three years, and has inked what is reported to be a $6 million deal with pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk to be the spokesperson for Victorza, an injectable diabetes medication. At the same time, Deen continues to promote less-than-healthy recipes, and to make butter, sugar and salt companies richer by touting foods laden with these products.

Ray said she has "no opinion" on Deen's very disconnected value net. But she is worried about Deen.

"I love Paula, I think she has been a hard worker," Ray said. "She loves food and she loves people. I feel very anxious for her. She is going through an anxious time."

"I’ve always loved her I’m sure she’s trying to balance it out for herself in her own home and what she’s going to share with her audience. It must be a very personal thing."

Asked about her own less-than healthy food promotions on her show and website, Ray defended these. On Ray's website, the promotional clip for her interview with Mrs. Obama features advertisements for food and exercise, including one for Twix candy bars.

“On our website we always try to have healthy options though we don’t always think about diabetes on our show," Ray said. "Every day we are not teaching lean, mean cuisine but the food I cook in my own home is balanced. “

On the other hand the Super Bowl is coming.

“I always try to cook for Super Bowl," Ray said. "I don’t like low fat or no fat cheese. I think you should eat a moderate diet. Then you don’t feel so bad if every once in awhile you want a chili dog.”

Or her 7-Layer Chili Dog Dip, which is laden with full-fat sour cream and cheese, as well as hot dogs, chili con carne, beans, and salsa.

"The seven layer--forget it," Ray said, gleeful, by way of enthusing about her signature recipe.

Ray and Alliance for a Healthier Generation...
Ray's school lunch recipes that were served at Parklawn were developed for her work with Alliance for a Healthier Generation, former President Bill Clinton's non-profit foundation with the American Heart Association, created to combat childhood obesity. Mr. Clinton, pounds lighter than when he was in the White House and now a vegan after battling heart disease, is not the type to enjoy 7-Layer Chili Dog Dip. Ray's healthy school lunch recipes are available to schools nationwide, according to the Alliance, and will be used in the National School Lunch Program. (Above: Ray with Vilsack during their conference call)

Mrs. Obama's interview with Ray is part of a TV triple-header this week: She's also appearing on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Jan. 31, and The Ellen DeGeneres Show on Feb. 2. On Feb. 9, Mrs. Obama kicks off a three-day national tour to celebrate the second anniversary of the Let's Move! campaign with a visit to Des Moines, Iowa.

*Click here for Ray's Parklawn recipes, adapted for home use.

*Top photo by Reuters; second by AP; Vilsack photo courtesy of Rachel Ray

Jill Biden: Sign Michelle's Birthday Card

Second Lady Jill Biden sent an e-mail from the Obama re-elect campaign today, asking supporters to sign First Lady Michelle Obama's card for her 48th birthday. OFA staffers have a bet going about the card, too.

Biden's e-mail was short and to the point. The subject line for the e-mail read "Sign Michelle's card." Supporters who sign on the OFA site are taken to a donation page.

The text:

Friend --

Michelle's birthday is today -- and I think you'll agree with me when I say she's a pretty special woman.

So I hope you'll take a moment to sign her card before we deliver it. You can even leave a note if you'd like:

http://my.barackobama.com/For-Michelle

After all, everyone loves hearing from friends on their birthday. And the year ahead is going to be a tough one, so I know this card will mean the world to Michelle.

Thanks,

Jill

##

New Video: White House Kitchen Gets Koshered For 2011 Hanukkah Reception

How the White House serves holiday delights at "the highest level of Jewish observance"...
Hanukkah begins tonight at sundown, and President Obama today issued a holiday greeting to the global Jewish community, offering "warmest wishes" from the First Family, and wishing all "Chag Sameach."  The President hosted the annual White House Hanukkah reception on Thursday, Dec. 8th, and the kosher menu offered to more than 550 guests was very different from the menu served at all other Presidential holiday receptions. The White House kitchen had to be specially cleaned--koshered--for the event. Washington, DC's Rabbi Levi Shemtov was charged with overseeing the process, and in a new White House video, he explains how it was done, joined by Executive Chef Cris Comerford. (Above: The Rabbi in the kitchen, mid-koshering)

"For me, as an American Jew, it is a distinct honor to oversee the kosherizing of the most important kitchen in the country," the Rabbi says. "The guests...will have White House-level fare, but it will be at the highest level of kosher observance."

The Presidential Hanukkah menu featured lamb chops, Roulade of chicken breast, potato pancakes, smoked salmon, sushi rolls, and an array of sweet treats (full menu is below), in contrast to the ham, shrimp and other non-kosher menu items offered at the rest of the Presidential holiday receptions.

"All of our surfaces have been cleaned, and boiled, and wrapped in saran wrap and aluminum foil and...protected," says Comerford onscreen.



This year's Hanukkah reception was the largest of the Administration. The President was joined by Mrs. Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, and Dr. Jill Biden as he welcomed his guests. After, the President and Mrs. Obama decamped to the Diplomatic Reception Room to take photos with their visitors, while the party went on upstairs in the Grand Foyer, and the guests enjoyed the kosher buffet.

2011 Hanukkah Reception Menu

Roulade of Chicken Breast
Fresh Thyme Sauce
Arugula and Fresh Artichokes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Filet of Beef
Au Jus
Caramelized Pearl Onions
Shiitake Mushrooms

Pine Nut Herb Crusted Lamb Chops
Mango and Mission Fig Chutney

Homemade Potato with Scallion Pancakes
Apple Sauce

Dill and Vodka Scottish Smoked Salmon
Non-Pareil Capers
Chopped Egg Whites and Yolks
Parsley
Lemon Wedges

Assorted Fresh Sushi Rolls
California Roll
Spicy Tuna Roll
Vegetable Roll
Pickled Ginger
Wasabi

Winter Squash Salad

Assorted Rolls

Dessert Station
Homemade Soufganyot
Crème Anglaise
Raspberry Jelly
"An assortment of homemade desserts"

In the photo above, President Obama welcomes guests as Mrs. Obama and the Bidens look on.

*Photo by Pete Souza/White House

President Obama Hosts 2011 White House Hanukkah Reception - The Menu, The Guest List

President welcomes Jewish leaders to celebrate the festival of lights with a Kosher menu that includes sushi rolls...
President Obama confirmed his Administration's "unshakable commitment" to the security of Israel as he welcomed more than 550 guests, including Administration officials and Members of Congress, to a Hanukkah reception on Thursday evening. The party was already under way when the President, joined by First Lady Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, and Dr. Jill Biden, arrived at 6:10 PM. It featured a strictly Kosher menu and the U.S. Marine Chamber Orchestra performing "A Tribute to Jewish-American Composers."

"We never need an excuse for a good party," President Obama joked, as he admitted that the White House was "jumping the gun" for a holiday that begins on December 20th.

"We do have to be careful that your kids don’t start thinking Hanukkah lasts twenty nights instead of eight."

It was the largest Hanukkah reception the First Couple has hosted, and the final one before the 2012 election. Candidate Obama recieved 78% of the Jewish vote in 2008, according to exit polls. Mrs. Obama smiled and waved to guests in the crowd as her husband spoke. Her hair down, she was clad in a sleeveless dress in a shade of metallic blue that is featured on the flag of Israel, with multiple ropes of matching beads around here neck as a complement.

The guests, packed tightly into the Grand Foyer, held their cameras and cell phones aloft as they stood between lit Christmas trees and green garlands tied with shining ribbons. They'd also been entertained by the West Point Jewish Chapel Cadet Choir.

The guests...
His comment about supporting Israel was the President's only political remark; he spent the rest of his time at the podium smiling broadly. Guests included Members of Congress, top Administration officials, and Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

"We are thrilled to see her," President Obama said. "She's one of my favorites. I have a soft spot for her."

He also gave a shout out to Michael Oren, Israel's Ambassador to the US, and to Jarrod Bernstein, the newly minted Director of Jewish Outreach. See below for a list of invited Members of Congress.



The President briefly told the story of the battle of the Maccabees and the oil lamp.

"This Hanukkah season, we remember a story so powerful that we know it by heart...even us Gentiles," he said to laughter. "A story of right over might, faith over doubt, a story about a band of believers who rose up and freed their people."

President Obama said the Hanukkah story is a reminder that "miracles come in all sizes," and the holiday season is a time to "recognize the miracles in our own lives."

"This is also time to be grateful for our friendships, both with each other and between our nations, and that of course includes our unshakable support and commitment to the security of the nation of Israel," President Obama said, to applause.

After speaking, he left to meet with guests in the Map Room of the White House. The full transcript of his remarks.

A Kosher menu...with sushi rolls
The reception had a buffet of Jewish holiday specialties--as well as sushi rolls, which were also served last year. The kitchen was Koshered for the event, and the menu was prepared under the strict rabbinical supervision of Rabbi Levi Shemtov, Lubavitch Center of Washington (Chabad), in cooperation with the Rabbinical Council of Greater Washington, according to the White House. The Meat was Glatt Kosher - Chassidishe Shechitah. All baked goods were Pas Yisroel; all wines were Mevushal. The foods were prepared Lemihadrin with a Mashgiach Temidi.

2011 Hanukkah Reception Menu

Roulade of Chicken Breast
Fresh Thyme Sauce
Arugula and Fresh Artichokes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Filet of Beef
Au Jus
Caramelized Pearl Onions
Shiitake Mushrooms

Pine Nut Herb Crusted Lamb Chops
Mango and Mission Fig Chutney

Homemade Potato with Scallion Pancakes
Apple Sauce

Dill and Vodka Scottish Smoked Salmon
Non-Pareil Capers
Chopped Egg Whites and Yolks
Parsley
Lemon Wedges

Assorted Fresh Sushi Rolls
California Roll
Spicy Tuna Roll
Vegetable Roll
Pickled Ginger
Wasabi

Winter Squash Salad

Assorted Rolls

Dessert Station
Homemade Soufganyot
Crème Anglaise
Raspberry Jelly
"An assortment of homemade desserts"

Congressional guest list...
Members of Congress invited to intend included 8 Senators and 21 Representatives from the US House.

The Senate: Sens. Barbara Boxer; Dianne Feinstein; Frank Lautenberg; Carl Levin; Joe Lieberman; Bernie Sanders; Chuck Schumer.

US House: Reps. Shelley Berkley; Howard Berman; David Cicilline; Steve Cohen; Susan Davis; Ted Deutch; Eliot Engel; Bob Filner; Steve Israel; Sandy Levin; Nita Lowey; Jerrold Nadler; Jared Polis; Steve Rothman; Jan Schakowsky; Adam Schiff; Allyson Schwartz; Brad Sherman; Debbie Wasserman Schultz; Henry Waxman; and John Yarmuth.

The menorah...
The menorah for the reception was lent by The Jewish Museum, New York and is dedicated to General Joseph T. McNarney, who served as the Commander in Chief of United States Forces in the European Theatre from November 1945 to March 1947. It was created in a displaced persons’ camp after World War II, the White House said. (Above: A long view of the reception)

The President's Hanukkah receptions in 2009 and 2010 included candle lighting ceremonies, but there was no ceremony this evening, because the reception did not coincide with the actual dates of Hanukkah.

This year, the White House released a special collection of Passover recipes created by acclaimed American chefs, including Joan Nathan. Some of the recipes are perfect for Hanukkah celebrations, too. (Above: the President speaks with a guest after his remarks)

Check the sidebar for all White House recipes.

*Photos by AP/Pool; reverse view photo by Pete Souza/White House

Transcript & Video: President Obama's Remarks, 2011 Hanukkah Reception

President Obama welcomed more than 550 guests for the annual White House Hanukkah reception on Thursday evening. It was held in the Grand Foyer, and featured a fully Kosher menu. Full details are here.

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
_________________________________

For Immediate Release
December 8, 2011

REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT HANUKKAH RECEPTION

Grand Foyer

6:10 P.M. EST


THE PRESIDENT: Well, good evening, everybody. Welcome to the White House. Thank you all for joining us tonight to celebrate Hanukkah -- even if we're doing it a little bit early. (Laughter.)

I want to start by recognizing a few folks who are here. The ambassador to the United States from Israel, Michael Oren, is in the house. (Applause.)

We are honored to be joined by one of the justices of the Supreme Court, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is here. (Applause.) We are thrilled to see her. She's one of my favorites, I got to -- (laughter.) I've got a soft spot for Justice Ginsburg.

And we’ve got more than a few members of Congress here and members of my administration in the house, including our new Director of Jewish Outreach, Jarrod Bernstein is here. Where's Jarrod? (Applause.) Hey, Jarrod.

I also want to thank the West Point Jewish Chapel Cadet Choir –- (applause) -- the Voice of Tradition -– for their wonderful performance, but more importantly, for their extraordinary service to our country.

And I want to thank all the rabbis and lay leaders who have come far and wide to be here with us today.

Now, as I said, we’re jumping the gun just a little bit. The way I see it, we’re just extending the holiday spirit. We're stretching it out. (Laughter.) But we do have to be careful that your kids don’t start thinking Hanukkah lasts 20 nights instead of eight. (Laughter.) That will cause some problems.

This Hanukkah season we remember a story so powerful that we all know it by heart -- even us Gentiles. It’s a story of right over might, of faith over doubt. Of a band of believers who rose up and freed their people and discovered that the oil left in their desecrated temple –- which should have lasted only one night –- ended up lasting eight.

It’s a timeless story. And for 2,000 years, it has given hope to Jews everywhere who are struggling. And today, it reminds us that miracles come in all shapes and sizes. Because to most people, the miracle of Hanukkah would have looked like nothing more than a simple flame, but the believers in the temple knew it was something else. They knew it was something special.

This year, we have to recognize the miracles in our own lives. Let’s honor the sacrifices our ancestors made so that we might be here today. Let’s think about those who are spending this holiday far away from home -– including members of our military who guard our freedom around the world. Let’s extend a hand to those who are in need, and allow the value of tikkun olam to guide our work this holiday season.

This is also a time to be grateful for our friendships, both with each other and between our nations. And that includes, of course, our unshakeable support and commitment to the security of the nation of Israel. (Applause.)

So while it is not yet Hanukkah, let’s give thanks for our blessings, for being together to celebrate this wonderful holiday season. And we never need an excuse for a good party. (Laughter.) So we are going to see all of you in a second downstairs --

MRS. OBAMA: Aren't we in the Blue Room?

THE PRESIDENT: Or wherever we are. (Laughter.) I think we're downstairs. We are downstairs in the Map Room. So as I look around, I see a whole bunch of good friends. We can't wait to give you a hug and a kiss and wish you a happy holiday. The guys with whiskers, I won't give you a kiss. (Laughter.)

Thank you very much, everybody. (Applause.)

END 6:14 P.M. EST

The Bidens Host Early Thanksgiving Dinner For Wounded Warriors

Vice President: Taking care of veterans is a "sacred obligation"...
Vice President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden welcomed twelve Wounded Warriors to an early Thanksgiving dinner on Monday afternoon at their Washington, DC, residence. The guests--primarily Marines who served in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province--were joined by their parents or spouses at the Naval Observatory. They sat around two large tables in the dining room as they had a traditional feast: Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, salad, and pumpkin pie. (Above: The Bidens welcome their guests)

Many of the service members were in wheelchairs and missing limbs, having been wounded in 2010 and 2011. They are still recovering, and in treatment and being outfitted with prostheses at Walter Reed National Medical Center in Bethesda. The Vice President welcomed the men and women by telling them that they are an "inspiration" to all Americans, and “part of the finest group of warriors that the world has ever seen.”

He promised that President Obama and all future presidents will be committed to making sure that they will have access to any medical breakthroughs that can improve their lives or help them heal.

“We have only one true sacred obligation and that is to provide for those of you we send into harm’s way, and give you every single solitary thing that you could possibly need to make the transition back home reasonable and workable," Biden said. "That is the only truly, truly sacred obligation we have.”

When he was done, the Vice President gave the microphone to his wife, who spoke of her own experiences as the mother of a deployed soldier. The Bidens' son, Captain Beau Biden, of the Delaware Army National Guard, is a veteran of the Iraq war. With First Lady Michelle Obama, Dr. Biden leads the Joining Forces initiative to support and honor military families. (Above: Dr. Biden speaking with Lance Cpl. Joshua Misiewicz)

“I know what it was like to look down our family table and see my son missing,” Dr. Biden said. “I know what you families have gone through when your loved ones are deployed and I know what it feels like…I know how other families are feeling this Thanksgiving.”

During dinner, the Vice President sat between Lance Cpl. Stephen Ayhens, who lost both his legs when he stepped on a buried bomb, and Lance Cpl. William Carpenter, who was injured by a hand grenade. Dr. Biden sat beside Lance Cpl. Joshua Misiewicz.

Shortly after the meal began, Misiewicz and his mother broke away to talk to reporters in a small living room on the first floor. Misiewicz played hockey while growing up in Chicago, and lost both of his legs above the knee when he stepped on a buried bomb on a foot patrol in Sangin, Afghanistan in July. He has already been outfitted for prostheses at Walter Reed. Just last Thanksgiving, he was working at Camp Pendleton, outside of San Diego, and getting ready to deploy to Afghanistan.

“This is so nice,” Misiewicz said of the dinner. “It shows a lot of people care.”

His mother, Nancy Misiewicz, also chimed in with thanks for the Bidens.

“Nothing compares to a home-cooked meal.”

This is the third year the Bidens have welcomed Wounded Warriors for Thanksgiving.

*Photos by the Office of the Vice President. *Updated

For Vice President Biden's Birthday, Obama Campaign Sells The "Cup Of Joe" Mug

The Obama fundraising operation never lets a holiday go by without making a plea for financial support. Today is Vice President Joe Biden's 69th birthday, and while it isn't (yet!) a national holiday, Campaign Manager Jim Messina sent an afternoon e-mail to donors suggesting a special celebration: Drop $20 (or more!) "to get your official Cup-of-Joe mug." Above, the mug as it appears on the OFA swag store website, complete with one of the Veep's favorite words, "literally," in the promo.

"I can't think of a better way to honor the Vice President's birthday than for his smile to grace kitchen tables and workplaces across America," Messina wrote in his e-mail.

Made in the USA, the mug is a big *&%!$*# deal, isn't it? And a perfect accompaniment to the Obama Birther Mug the Campaign is selling. Unfortunately, unlike President Obama's mug, Biden's doesn't have his birth certificate on it. Or Biden's other *&%!$*# signature fave word, which would make it a best-seller.

The mug missive was Messina's second Biden birthday e-mail of the day. Earlier, he sent an follow-up to Dr. Jill Biden's e-mail request that supporters sign a birthday card for her husband. Messina asked for more signatures "before we deliver the card to the Vice President."

"Hundreds of thousands of supporters have already added their names and their good wishes. Joe's going to love reading these," Messina wrote.

Messina's coffee mug e-mail had the subject heading "On this day in 1942".

Click here to see more Obama Campaign foodie swag, including a Biden can holder.

The text of Messina's mug e-mail:

Friend --

Joe Biden was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, on this day in 1942.

I can't think of a better way to honor the Vice President's birthday than for his smile to grace kitchen tables and workplaces across America.

Wish Joe a happy birthday -- donate $20 or more to get your official Cup of Joe mug today:

https://donate.barackobama.com/Cup-of-Joe-Mug

Thank you,

Messina

Jim Messina
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

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*Expect 4-6 week delivery time of you actually order a mug.

Michelle Obama At NASCAR Sprint Cup Finale: "Gentlemen, Start Your Engines"...

Homestead Speedway: First Lady, Dr. Biden serve as Grand Marshals, host barbecue for military families, announce new job commitments for vets & military spouses...
First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden will visit Homestead-Miami Speedway in Florida today, serving as Grand Marshals for the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup finale, the Ford 400. The race is the biggest prize in American motor sports, and Mrs. Obama and Dr. Biden's appearance is part of the Joining Forces campaign to support and honor families.

Before the race, Mrs. Obama and Dr. Biden "will recognize service members and military families from the local community at a special BBQ lunch," the White House said. They will also invite a military family to join them as they lead lead the pre-race ceremony and speak what the White House bills as " the most famous words in racing"--“Gentlemen, start your engines.”

Carl Edwards of Missouri is the #1 ranked driver today. Edwards, 32, is the only NASCAR driver who is a member of the President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition, and has worked with Mrs. Obama on the Let's Move! campaign.

The Miami visit will also "highlight new commitments by American companies to hire and train veterans and military spouses," the White House said. Representatives from companies committing to hiring 10,000 veterans and military spouses by the end of 2013 will volunteer at the barbecue, which will be at the Speedway’s Nationwide Garage.



Walmart, Mrs. Obama's largest private-sector partner for the Let's Move! campaign, has also partnered with the First Lady for Joining Forces. The company created the video, above, featuring racing stars encouraging Americans to support America's uniformed heroes. The video includes Edwards.

The hiring commitments, per the White House:
Representatives from the following companies who have pledged support for the hiring initiative will be at the barbecue: The Beacon Council, G4S Secure Solutions (USA), Ryder System, Inc., Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc., Google, The National Military Family Association, The Boeing Company, Raytheon, Inventis Group Ltd. and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory.

"This employment commitment includes a first-of-its-kind dedicated local employment effort in South Florida led by the Beacon Council, Miami-Dade County’s economic development leader, to hire veterans and military spouses," the White House said.

*The Beacon Council and their 274 companies will strive to hire 4,000 veterans by the end of 2013;

*G4S Secure Solutions (USA) whose workforce is 21% veterans already will hire 3,000 veterans by 2013;

*Ryder System, Inc. whose workforce is 10% veterans already expects to hire more than 550 veterans in 2011 and 1,000 additional veterans by the end of 2013; and

*BAE Systems, Inc. which already employs more than 3,000 veterans is committed to employing wounded warriors and veterans through their Warrior Integration services.

##

Happy Birthday, Vice President Joe Biden!

Dr. Jill Biden organizes a special gift for VP's 69th...
Vice President Joe Biden celebrates his 69th birthday today, his second since being sworn in to office. He's spending the day in Wilmington, Delaware and has no public events scheduled, according to the White House. In 2009, Biden celebrated his last birthday before becoming Vice President at Transition headquarters in Chicago, where President Obama presented him with a dozen cupcakes (above). It's the only Obama-Biden birthday photo released by the Administration that actually includes cake in the image.

Dr. Jill Biden will not be spending the big *&%!$*# deal of a day with her spouse in Delaware. Instead, she will be in Florida, joining First Lady Michelle Obama at Homestead-Miami Speedway as co-grand marshal for the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup finale. They'll be hosting a barbecue for military families, and announcing a new private-sector jobs commitment for veterans as part of the Joining Forces campaign.

But on Friday, Dr. Biden orchestrated a special birthday celebration for the Vice President, sending an email to Obama campaign supporters, asking them to sign an online birthday card. It was also from the First Family, Dr. Biden said. (Above: The online card)

"I know I don't usually send you emails, but Joe has a birthday coming up this Sunday, and I'm trying something new," Dr. Biden wrote. "The First Family and I are putting together a special card for him...So help us make this birthday a memorable one for Joe."

The subject heading for the e-mail was "Sign Joe's card."

The full text:

Friend--

I know I don't usually send you emails, but Joe has a birthday coming up this Sunday, and I'm trying something new.

The First Family and I are putting together a special card for him, and we'd like as many supporters of this campaign as possible to add their names and messages for Joe.

Because the year ahead is going to be a big one -- not just for Joe and me, but for all of us. We've all got some work to do.

So help us make this birthday a memorable one for Joe. Add your names, and, if you like, your own notes and well-wishes for the year ahead:

http://my.barackobama.com/For-Joe

Thanks,

Jill

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*Photo from Change.org, the website of the Transition