Bush Presidential Library Dedication

A note from our attorneys: This is not a real quote.

UNIVERSITY PARK—The journey starts simply enough.

"The presidency is more than an honor. It is more than an office. It is a charge to keep and I will give it my all."

Those words written on an entryway wall—first spoken by George W. Bush on Dec. 13, 2000 in Austin—greet visitors as they walk into the museum at the George W. Bush Presidential Center.

A brief history of Bush, and his family life, is on display before the key moments of the Bush presidency are detailed in photos, news articles and video clips throughout the 14,000-square-feet of exhibit space in the center that will officially be unveiled during an invitation-only ceremony today.

Bush will be joined by President Barack Obama and the three other living ex-presidents—George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter—during an exclusive, 1 1/2 hour dedication ceremony marking the completion of the library, museum and political institute commemorating the 43rd president's eight years in the White House.

Via Star-Telegram

The Faithful, Funny Pal

President Bush and Barney at Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Airport in Waco, Texas en route Prairie Chapel Ranch. Photo by Paul Morse, Courtesy of the George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum  (INSET:  Oil painting of Barney by President Bush) 

“The dog is a gentleman; I hope to go to his heaven, not man's.”—Mark Twain, letter to W.D. Howells, 2 April 1899

Known for chasing golf balls and taking America on video tours of the White House, Barney Bush, the black Scottish terrier belonging to former President George W. Bush has gone to play fetch with God.

The Dallas News reported that Barney, who was 12, passed away after a battle with lymphoma.

The former president sent out a statement:

"Laura and I are sad to announce that our Scottish terrier, Barney, has passed away. The little fellow had been suffering from lymphoma and after twelve and a half years of life, his body could not fight off the illness.” 

"Barney and I enjoyed the outdoors. He loved to accompany me when I fished for bass at the ranch. He was a fierce armadillo hunter. At Camp David, his favorite activity was chasing golf balls on the chipping green.” 

"Barney guarded the South Lawn entrance of the White House as if he were a Secret Service agent. He wandered the halls of the West Wing looking for treats from his many friends. He starred in Barney Cam and gave the American people Christmas tours of the White House. Barney greeted Queens, Heads of State, and Prime Ministers. He was always polite and never jumped in their laps.” 

"Barney was by my side during our eight years in the White House. He never discussed politics and was always a faithful friend. Laura and I will miss our pal."