3 chapters across the catalog
Presidential Medal of Freedom, Adam Curry Endorsement
A listener sent a letter to the White House endorsing the founder of podcasting for the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The White House responded with a standard form letter signed by the President, thanking the citizen for their involvement but offering no specific commitment to the award. The exchange underscores the automated nature of constituent communications.
Presidential Medal of Freedom Ceremony and Bob Dylan
President Barack Obama awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 13 individuals, including musician Bob Dylan, former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, and Israeli President Shimon Peres. The inclusion of Dylan is noted as ironic given his history as an anti-war icon, while the awards for Albright and Peres are criticized based on their foreign policy records.
Presidential Medal of Freedom, George H.W. Bush and Stan Musial
President Obama awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to several recipients, including baseball legend Stan Musial and former President George H.W. Bush. The ceremony featured an emotional Bush, prompting a discussion on the public display of tears by male politicians. An anecdote about Barbara Bush's humor regarding the "Speaker of the House" and crying is also shared.
