President Barack Obama is seen through the window of his motorcade vehicle as he is driven through the Kailua, Hawaii, neighborhood where he is spending his annual holiday vacation with his family, Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2013, en route to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe, Hawaii, to play golf. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)
December 25, 2013 - 3:05 AM
HONOLULU, Hawaii - President Barack Obama is encouraging Americans to embrace the spirit of Christmas by volunteering at a soup kitchen, buying gifts for kids in need, or organizing food and clothing drives.
In his weekly radio and Internet address, Obama says the values Jesus taught can spur Americans of all faiths to be better parents, friends, neighbours and citizens.
First lady Michelle Obama says the nation should show gratitude by supporting military members and their families.
The Obamas recorded the Christmas message in Washington before leaving Friday for their annual vacation in Hawaii.
In the Republican address, Sen. Jim Risch of Idaho says America's most prized gifts include freedom and worship. He's thanking the military for defending American freedoms.
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Online:
White House address: http://www.whitehouse.gov
GOP address: http://www.youtube.com/gopweeklyaddress
News from © The Associated Press, 2013