Bush: 'I like low expectations'

WASHINGTON, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush told the NHL champion Carolina Hurricanes Friday he likes to be "around people that keep expectations low."

Bush congratulated the 2005-06 Stanley Cup winners at the White House, noting the team was ranked 28 out of 30 at the beginning of last season.

"I like to be around people that keep expectations low," Bush said. "Instead of listening to the prognosticators, this team had a 112-point season. They had 52 wins. They win the Stanley Cup. They're here at the White House. Congratulations to you."

Also at the East Room ceremony were former North Carolina Republican Sens. Elizabeth Dole and Richard Burr and Rep. Jim Koble, who was sporting a championship hat.

"I thought you might be wearing that to cover up your bald head," Bush quipped.