It wouldn't be the start of summer in Washington without the annual White House CorrespondentsAssociation Dinner. Since the 1920s, the event has been awarding members of the press with the rareopportunity to step away from their demanding workloads to enjoy a laid-back, entertaining evening withthe president. There couldn't have been a more perfect way to round out the workday, as legendary ArethaFranklin brought nearly all of the 2,000 reporters, news executives, and their guests to their feet withsuch favorites as "R-E-S-P-E-C-T". In addition to the president's remarks, three prestigious journalismawards were also presented. This year's honorees included Newsweek reporter Michael Isikoff, who wasrecognized for his coverage of the Monica Lewinsky scandal.

Master of Ceremonies: Brian Williams

Location: Washington Hilton

Year after year, the annual dinner has received more exposure- not for the journaliststhat are recognized, but rather for the top-notch Hollywood A-list it attracts (as wellas the exclusive Vanity Fair post-party). This year's dinner was no exception. EvenPresident Clinton poked fun at the trend when he joked: "I want you to know that Ireally appreciate all these Hollywood celebrities inviting the work-a-day Washingtonpress to join them tonight."

Click on the Photo for More Great Pictures! Greg Craig & Harold Ickes