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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Down To Earth

President’s Park

“As I stood in the foyer and let my eyes wander down the corridors, it was impossible to forget the history that had been made there—John and Bobby Kennedy huddling over the Cuban missile crisis... Lincoln alone, pacing the halls and shouldering the weight of a nation.” - President Barack Obama discussing his impression of The White House.









Today is a big day for America, a big day for the world, and yes - even a big day for National Parks.  For today, President-elect Obama becomes President Obama and while every angle of the story, the events and the significance of which, will be covered, DTE finds pleasure in pointing out that his new residence, though better known as 1600 Pennsylvania Ave or the White House, is actually a National Park - President's Park. 

It's often not thought of as a National Park, but President's Park, encompassing the White House, a visitor center, Lafayette Park, and The Ellipse is taken care of by The National Park's Service, and though many who visit aren't there for the National Park aspect of it - the beauty of the landscaping never fails to become a vocal point of one's trip.  Here's an interesting tidbit; when John Adams was president he planted a magnolia tree that still stands, it's nearly 200 years old.

So today, as President Barack Obama raises his hand, and optimism and hope flood the world, take a minute to admire the beauty of the park and to praise the National Park service for its tireless dedication to preservation.

For an interesting take on President's Park and a brief history, click HERE for an article titled, "An American Home."  And to see photos from The National Parks Conservation Association - click HERE. 

 



Down To Earth

The DTE blog is committed to reporting and sharing environmental news and sustainability information from across the Inland Northwest.