Washington Winter Show 2016

January 7, 2016 Dear Fellow Collectors: Welcome to the 2016 Washington Winter Show, whose theme this year – “Through the Eyes of a Child” – likely will resonate with many of us. If you’re like me, your parents instilled in you an appreciation for antiques at an early age. I have fond memories of my parents collecting early American antiques, and am pleased to say I have kept all of them, including the plantation desk they gave me for my 16 th birthday. I developed a love for English furniture and antiques in my early 20s, and have been collecting them for the past 40 years. As a parent, I, too, have tried to acquire unique and memorable artifacts that my children might treasure and find memorable during their lifetime. While I would like to think I’ve been successful, I understand that the world is a more casual place today and that my children may not be interested in the formality of the items I’ve collected over the years. I hope that I’m wrong, and that when they’re adults, they’ll carry on the tradition and recognize that collecting is as much about the passing of the baton as it is about investable assets. If your goal is to introduce your children to collecting -- be it stamps, baseball cards or antiques, you are sure to find useful information at this year’s Washington Winter Show. The organizers have made a concerted effort to include programming that introduces our youngest patrons to antiques. Be sure to take your family to experience the Gunston Hall loan exhibit, which highlights George Mason’s personal life and the lasting influences of his most famous document, The Virginia Declaration of Rights. Take them to Sundaes on Sunday, a scavenger hunt that will be held in the exhibit hall. Or have them accompany you as you chat with the wonderful vendors of artifacts, fine art, jewelry, and other collectibles. We at PNC are delighted to continue to be the presenting sponsor of the Washington Winter Show for the sixth consecutive year. As a company that cares about investing in our community, we are pleased that the proceeds from the show benefit three of our region’s top nonprofits: THEARC, The Bishop T. Walker School for Boys, and the Founders Board of St. John’s Community Services. Congratulations to all who have worked tirelessly to put together what promises to be another exceptional event. Enjoy! Michael N. Harreld Regional President Greater Washington Area 5