Letters of support : 2004 San Francisco Dinner

The White House

Washington

February 17, 2004

I send greetings to those gathered for the 2004 San Francisco Dinner of The American Ireland Fund.

Irish Americans have played a vital role in shaping our Nation. Through their spirit, hard work, and patriotism, they have made America stronger and better. America has shared close ties of family, culture, and history with Ireland and the Irish people, and those ties are continuing and growing stronger.

I applaud the members of The American Ireland Fund for fostering pride and charity among people of Irish ancestry and all Americans. I appreciate your efforts to promote the friendship between the United States and Ireland.

Laura joins me in sending our best wishes.

George Bush

UACHTARAN NA HEIREANN
President of Ireland
Message from President McAleese

I am delighted to send warm wishes to everyone at The American Ireland Fund as you gather for the Annual San Francisco Dinner.

It is difficult to believe that a year ha passed since your last dinner but it most certainly has been a momentous year, in which Ireland has the supreme honour of hosting The Special Olympics. The Special Olympics taught us all a lesson - a lesson in how each and every individual can make a valued and valuable contribution to this world and irrespective of medal honours we are all winners.

The Special Olympics experience reminded us that we are part of a global family where people from every corner of the world are considered neighbours and friends. This epitomizes - in the truest sense - the concept of building friendships and connections across divides - geographical, social, political, and cultural. We are blessed in this world to have committed individuals who believe in their ability to make a difference.

I would like to pay particular tribute to the Hon. Gavin Christopher Newsom and Justice William A. Newsom, joint winners of the Distinguished Leadership Award. It is indeed a particular achievement to have two winners of such a prestigious award in the same family. - I sincerely congratulate you both.

I would also like to thank you all for your continued support in building and developing a future based on hope. I send you all my very best wishes for a memorable and enjoyable evening.

Mary McAleese
President of Ireland.

March 5 2004
American Ireland Fund

I am pleased to extend warm greetings on the occasion of your 20th annual San Francisco Dinner.

The strength of our Golden State is found in the devotion of people and groups serving their communities. For more than 25 years, your organization has united people of Irish ancestry and raised funds to support programs of Peace and Reconciliation in Ireland. I applaud your support of arts and culture, community development and education as an avenue toward peace and understanding.

I offer heartfelt congratulations to the Honorable William Newsom and San Francisco mayor Gavin Newsom as they are honored for their leadership and service to California.

Please accept my best wishes for a memorable evening and every future success.

Sincerely

Arnold Schwarzenegger