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Mr. Gibson goes to Washington
Gaffney native Phillip Gibson never hesitated when his daughter, Jenna, asked him in early December to join her for a holiday reception at the White House. Jenna, 24, is an associate producer at Fox News where her duties include serving as a liaison between the White House and members of the Washington Press Corps. Gibson boarded an airplane Dec. 15 and spent the following evening attending a holiday reception at the White House. He was among many guests who waited in line to be greeted by President George W. Bush. "This was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet the president of the United States," Gibson said. "I considered it an honor to meet President George Bush. This was such a unique and unlikely experience that I can't really compare it to anything." History records show construction of the White House began in October of 1792 under the supervision of George Washington. It was nearly completed in 1800 when John Adams, the nation's second president, and his wife, Abigail, became the first White House residents. Gibson enjoyed getting to sit inside the Red Room where recent presidents have held small dinner parties. While he waited to meet the president, the Gaffney resident spent time speaking with guests and taking in the extensive history displayed on the walls of the White House. Gibson went through an extensive series of background and security checks. A U.S. Marine finally led Gibson and his daughter, Jenna, to the receiving line where they were formally introduced to the president and his wife, Laura. The president shook his hand and posed for a photograph. The brief encounter left an impression on Gibson. "I always wondered what it would be like to go into the White House and meet a U.S. President," Gibson said. "It's an experience I will never forget." |
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