Put aside the indictments, scandals, and tearful confessions for a moment. “Cute” is not usually a word attributable to almost anything here in DC. But today, the Tai Shan countdown begins. And “cute” is merely one adjective for this newest resident of Washington. D.C’s pandas-on-loan from China have paid off in PR, if not in tax dollars, for Washington. Tai Shan (meaning “peaceful mountain” — yes, yes, the name has evoked lots of chatter in the capital), our little panda, was born to proud parents four months ago, and he will make his inaugural public appearance next week. What an auspicious, harmonious, prosperous, and blessed event this Inauguration will be, for who can possibly hate a little panda?

To see a pre-public video clip, click here.