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Here is kept the collection of silver-gilt or vermeil tableware (hence the name), a 1956 bequest by Margaret Thompson Biddle. Portraits of past First Ladies also hang in the room. Originally a staff work room used for storage, and later for the tasks of polishing silver, it is now used for social occasions. We didn't see any silverware lying around, only this tree. Sometimes you gotta work with what's available.
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This is where they keep the many place settings used at state dinners and various social functions. At the most recent formal affair, at least three of the sets were used, including -- we cannot help but note this with some irony -- the Eisenhower set.
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Originally known as the "Public Audience Hall," this room is used for entertaining, press conferences, ceremonies, and occasionally for large dinners. You won't see any pictures of yours truly during this tour, unfortunately. Two people tried to use my phone camera, and they had a hard time of it. Oh well, let's move on ...
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This is one of three parlor rooms used for small receptions and teas, and for serving cocktails before the First Couple descends the Grand Staircase and leads their guests into the adjoining hall. Oh, and it's always painted green.
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This room is used for receptions, receiving lines, and occasionally for more intimate dinners. Originally the south entrance hall, it is unique among the state rooms for its oval shape. It also hosts one of the largest of twenty-seven Christmas trees that decorate the interior of White House. (Someone apprised me before leaving the office today, of the lack of red decoration on this tree. Personally, I find it rather elegant. I sure couldn't pull this off at my place.)
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It has also been the setting for many historic moments, as this room is used for official welcomes. This is why the Presidential podium is here, as seen in so many news broadcasts (although we regret that the teleprompter was not available for this occasion).
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It is here where guests for occasions like this, are treated to such entertainment as The Air Force String Quartet, which is a component of The United States Air Force Band. I believe it was during the administration of Theodore Roosevelt that the White House ceased to be formally known as "The Executive Mansion." Perhaps this is just as well, as by world standards, it might be considered, in the words of Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie to President John Kennedy, "a modest palace."
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Just another day at the office. (sigh!)
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