I watched a great documentary the other day on indiana directv. It was about the food that is served at the White House. It was really entertaining. Often different administrations have different house staff, but they interviewed a pastry chef that had worked at the White house for the last twenty years. It was really interesting. The documentary followed all of the preparation that goes into having a State Dinner. The staff at the White House prepares for weeks and weeks. There are details that you don’t even think about that are involved in the set up. Security is a big issue ( especially after the Salahi incident). The chefs start preparing a menu months in advance. They fly in food from all over the United States the week of the Dinner. Of course the first lady has to approve the dinner and drinks that are served. She helps to decide on the decorations, seating arrangements, etc. I just couldn’t believe how much work went into one State Dinner! Maybe one day I will get to actually attend one!