CONFERENCE SECRETARY AND WIFE
VISIT MR. AND MRS. RICHARD CHENEY
(from the February 2004 Pilgrim News)

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When Bro. Spangler received a call in June 2003 from the Vice President of the United States Office", his first Thought was, "Someone's playing a joke". He soon learned that the call was real and was asked accordingly, if he and Sis. Spangler would be available to attend a special Christmas Reception and Dinner at the Vice Presidents residence in Washington. 'Yes, I believe there is a possibility we could attend this year", he replied. (The Spangler's received an invitation in 2002, but due to circumstances they were unable to attend.) After exchanging some personal information, Bro. Spangler was informed that a secretary would be back in contact within a few weeks. The first week of July he received another call simply verifying the previous call. At the close of their conversation the secretary said, 'We'll be in touch."

Bro. and Sis. Spangler sort of forgot about the telephone calls until they received a written invitation from Mr. and Mrs. Cheney in November, and were told to contact the Vice Presidents office at their earliest convenience. Bro. Spangler called that day and was informed that they were "being planned for" and that "all arrangements were in place" for their arrival.

On December 11th, Bro. and Sis. Spangler arrived at the prearranged meeting place to go through further security clearance. To their amazement the Secret Service and police acted as if they were expecting them, knew them by name and motioned them through the various checkpoints where they were in turn met by a shuttle service. They were then escorted to the Vice President's beautiful residence.

There were various dignitaries present including, Senators, "Military Brass", Alan Greenspan, Bill Hugs and such like. The Spangler's received a very warm welcome with greetings, handshakes and even "hugs" from the Cheneys, as well as, an opportunity for photographs in front of their Christmas tree. 'The Cheney's were so very nice and personal, and they made us feel more than welcome", the Spanglers said. The meal was "absolutely delicious" and very extravagant. A live military string ensemble played throughout the evening. When it came time to leave The Spanglers were presented with a beautiful gift commemorating their visit.

Upon returning home they said, "We count it a privilege to be followers of Christ. He has rewarded us over and over with special blessings. We went to Washington with the intention of letting our light shine, and God helped us do just that.

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