To Be Free: The National Literacy Honors From the White House

To Be Free: The National Literacy Honors From the White House is a television special that aired on March 18, 1990. Hosted by George H. W. Bush and Barbara Bush, the ceremony was taped at The White House on February 2, 1990 "to honor eight people for their leadership in the literacy movement."The Alliance Times-Herald (Alliance, Nebraska) by Betty Balderson of of Project Read from the Alliance Public Library, March 17, 1990Los Angeles Times "TV Reviews : ‘To Be Free’ Records Bush’s Literacy Awards" 
Jim Henson and Kermit the Frog appeared among several celebrities who entertained during the program including Barbara Mandrell, Patrick Swayze, Morgan Freeman, Jamie Lee Curtis, Anita Baker, and Beau Bridges. Kermit introduced Inez Ortiz, the youngest honoree of the group after taping was delayed to properly adjust lighting for the frog.The Times-Tribune (Scranton, Pennsylvania) "Receiving National Award Brings Tears for Area Woman" by Jody Kostenbauder (via Wyoming County Bureau) February 14, 1990 The honorees included a mixture of educators, people who overcame functional illiteracy, and literacy program founders (including cookie entrepreneur Wally "Famous" Amos).
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Category:TV Appearances