Irony Tsunami: Bush Proclaimed Monday 'Child Health Day'

From our you've-got-to-be-kidding-me file, we discover that, slipping quietly by yesterday, was Child Health Day 2006, which was officially designated by George W. Bush on September 28.

"Each year on Child Health Day, we emphasize the importance of keeping our children safe, encouraging them to practice healthy habits, and educating and empowering them to avoid risky behavior," reads the president's proclamation for October 2. "Parents are children's first teachers, and they play a crucial role in promoting good health and helping young people grow into responsible, moral, and productive adults."

True enough… Good thing they probably never intended on citing Republican Congressmen as standard-bearers in helping kids "avoid risky behavior" or that would have been an embarrassing last-minute deletion, huh?

"My Administration recognizes the importance of investing in the health and well-being of our young people, and we remain committed to helping our children build healthy and successful lives," said Bush. "By working together, families, teachers, mentors, and government and community leaders can help ensure young people enjoy the opportunity to have long and healthy lives."

Well, I'm sure he only meant some "government and community leaders" but, even so, perhaps Mr. Bush's stirring proclamation should have had a fine-print disclaimer like "offer null and void if your child happens to be a Congressional intern or page."

Lest you think I'm making this up, you can see the president's statement on this at the White House web site.