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Pretty Please - add it to our Events forum(s) and add to the calendar! >> 
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vagt6
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President Bush announced rather suddenly last week that he'd deliver the address at the annual citizen naturalization ceremony here today at Monticello. With that announcement, the place has turned coo-coo. People camped out last night at the visitor's center to obtain tickets! No way was I going to fight the crowds to go. Only 1000 tickets will be available to the public. Traffic was nuts here yesterday, all day long.
And of course there is a huge protest against Mr. Bush being planned. I think they intend to line the highway that approaches Monticello (Rt. 53). However, I don't think the Secret Service will let them get within miles of the actual ceremony. The press say the protesters may be directed to another location. We'll see.
Bush is one of a few Presidents who have performed the naturalization ceremony at Monticello, which has been held every July 4th here for decades. Franklin Roosevelt, and I think Grover Cleveland also delivered the naturalization speech at Monticello.
Monticello, of course, is one of the most stunning and beautiful places on the planet, and Jefferson's presence can be felt there. It's perched high atop a beautiful mountain (about 1,500 ft. elevation) with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. Words cannot describe the place, it's magical.
I'm sure it will be a moving experience for all. Most of the immigrants who do the naturalization ceremony at Monticello will never forget it. And to have a sitting President to perform it is really wonderful. What a treat for our newest citizens!
It really brings additional meaning to the 4th for folks here in Charlottesville. And, I wish the protesters well, but I hope they do not interfere with this solemn and serious occasion.
Some ceremonial activities should be left alone, for the participants to enjoy. This, I think, is one.
Happy Fourth to you all!
And of course there is a huge protest against Mr. Bush being planned. I think they intend to line the highway that approaches Monticello (Rt. 53). However, I don't think the Secret Service will let them get within miles of the actual ceremony. The press say the protesters may be directed to another location. We'll see.
Bush is one of a few Presidents who have performed the naturalization ceremony at Monticello, which has been held every July 4th here for decades. Franklin Roosevelt, and I think Grover Cleveland also delivered the naturalization speech at Monticello.
Monticello, of course, is one of the most stunning and beautiful places on the planet, and Jefferson's presence can be felt there. It's perched high atop a beautiful mountain (about 1,500 ft. elevation) with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. Words cannot describe the place, it's magical.
I'm sure it will be a moving experience for all. Most of the immigrants who do the naturalization ceremony at Monticello will never forget it. And to have a sitting President to perform it is really wonderful. What a treat for our newest citizens!
It really brings additional meaning to the 4th for folks here in Charlottesville. And, I wish the protesters well, but I hope they do not interfere with this solemn and serious occasion.
Some ceremonial activities should be left alone, for the participants to enjoy. This, I think, is one.
Happy Fourth to you all!
