President confides in Gallup student

By Bill Donovan
Staff Writer

Moses Alonzo holds the letter and photograph that President Bush sent him in response to one that he sent. [Photo by John A. Bowersmith/ Independent]

GALLUP — Moses Alonzo and George W. Bush are not exactly pen pals but a letter that the Gallup fourth-grader received recently from the president is now framed and on the mantle.

Alongside of it is a picture that the president sent Moses of him and his wife in appreciation of a letter that Moses sent to him some two months ago.

Moses, the son of Johnny and Carol Alonzo, was one of a number of students at Lincoln Elementary School who took part in a writing project that included writing to the president about what they were doing and whatever questions they have to ask him.

The 11-year-old told the president he thought he did a good job in sending American relief to the victims of the tsunami tragedy and wondered if he was going to continue to be president for the next four years.

The letter must have struck a cord in the president because he sent a reply back on White House stationary talking about the confidence the Bushes have in the American people and the American way of government.

Bush also encouraged Moses to "study hard, help others and make healthy choices. By setting higher standards and reaching your full potential, you can make a difference for your community and your nation."

Moses said he was excited to learn that he had received a reply from the president, adding that he had been eating lunch when he was told about the letter.

Although he didn't say so in the letter, it was obvious that Bush feels a lot better these days, knowing that if things get really tough, he can just seek advice from his Gallup friend, Moses Alonzo.