When I was in my late 20s, I was with the GE News Bureau in Washington, D.C. and served as The White House Liaison for the Lighting of the National Christmas Tree...part of the Pageant of Peace...a celebration that started 86 years ago and culminates with the President throwing a switch on the first Thursday in December to light the tree on the Ellipse near the White House. Even if you can't make the lighting ceremony someday, plan a trip during December...our capital city is beautiful dressed up for the holidays. I met two Presidents...Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter...before I moved on to other media and PR/Advertising jobs over the years. It still is a warm memory. Merry Christmas to all...