A framed letter from the White House. The letter is typed on White House stationary and dated August 10, 1976. It is addressed to "Mr. Melpo Falakos". The letter thanks the recipient for giving a Bicentennials gift and explains that all gifts received at the White House are considered gifts to the nation rather than to the first lady. The letter explains that all Bicentennials gifts will be displayed on a rotating basis in the Great Hall of the Commerce Building. The letter also mentions that a message from President Ford is enclosed. Finally, the letter is signed by "Milton E. Mitler" "Deputy Special Assistant".

This letter was donated by Nick Falakos. The letter was sent to his mother, Melpo, thanking her for the embroidery she sent to the White House in celebration of the United States Bicentennial, the 200th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The bicentennial was observed throughout the country through a series of celebrations and events between April 1, 1975 and July 4, 1976. The Great Hall in the Commerce Building (now the Herbert C. Hoover Building) was used as the Bicentennial Visitor Center and housed items that Americans had sent to President Gerald Ford to celebrate the occasion. One of the embroideries made by Melpo Falakos was sent to the White House and exhibited in the Great Hall, and later sent to the Smithsonian Institution.
The person writing the letter apparently did not realize that Melpo Falakos was a woman, as she is addressed as "Mr." twice in the letter.

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