Local Family's Lucky Easter Win: Meeting the President

Many families participated in the yearly White House Easter Egg Roll on Monday, among them being the Palmiero family from Drums, who found out about their attendance via a lottery entry.

"It felt like hitting the jackpot; winning the lottery couldn’t compare to how elated I was. The emotion was so overwhelming that I nearly shed tears. Then, an idea struck me: why not celebrate Easter there? We could turn this into a holiday trip and explore Washington D.C., making unforgettable memories," he shares.

The occasion on the South Lawn included storytelling sessions, games, coloring activities, garden planting, bouquet creation, and the customary egg roll.

The Palmero family, which includes 8-year-old Gio and her 6-year-old sister Lena, went to the egg roll event to bypass lengthy queues.

"It was thrilling, truly exhilarating, and I enjoyed spotting Donald Trump," stated 6-year-old Lena Palermo.

That was when an unusual event occurred – as Gio was coloring, a member of the President's staff requested him to reserve a spot for someone important wearing a red tie.

"They asked if I could hold a spot for someone special, but couldn't say who just yet," Gio recalled with the same curiosity as Curious George.

Gio maintained an empty space next to him by keeping his leg on the bench as President Trump and the First Lady arrived with the children on the lawn.

"I nearly fainted from excitement," Gio said.

Following some short comments, the President and First Lady initiated the egg roll with a whistle.

"It was incredible; I became really enthusiastic, and I got all worked up because I was so excited," Gio exclaimed.

The initial pair spent almost 20 minutes sitting with the kids, engaging in activities like coloring, signing autographs, and responding to their queries.

"I shouted 'fight, fight, fight,' but he responded with 'look at him,'" Gio remembered.

Gio’s younger sister Lena got the opportunity to join the First Lady as they sat together coloring.

"She had a nice floral scent, but I couldn't make out her nails even though she smelled great," Lena recalled.

When the President resumed his duties, Gio made one final appeal to the Commander in Chief.

"I had the chance to shake his hand, and afterward, he commented that I have attractive parents," Gio mentioned.

The family managed to bring back an autographed keepsake along with various other mementos from the event.