photo op
One of the advantages of living in Washington is the rare occasion to visit some of the biggest sites in the world. My former roommate, who works for the government, was able to secure a tour of the West Wing for me and some friends this past weekend. Though tours of the White House East Wing are given to the public every day, West Wing tours are much more rare. And most of the stuff people actually would want to see (i.e. the Oval Office, Rose Garden, Cabinet Room, Press Room) are in and around the West Wing.
We were not allowed to take pictures in most of the West Wing, but we did snaps a few shots just outside a door on the north side. You can see the presidential seal above our heads. Pictures were also allowed in the press briefing room. The picture of me alone was taken as I took a seat in Helen Thomas’ chair in the briefing room. Thomas, who currently works for Hearst Newspapers, has covered every president since JFK. And though all news organizations have their names on their chairs, Thomas is one of the few journalists with her name (not her organization) engraved on her chair in the briefing room. Her chair, earned through seniority and excellent reporting, is located in the center of the front row. You rock, Ms. Thomas!
