Dr. Ruth named honorary secretary of D.C.'s 'Department of Love and Relationships'

Dr. Ruth Westheimer, left, with Pam Galloway-Tabb, at the Ritz-Carlton on Wednesday night. (Photo by Neshan Naltchayan for the Ritz-Carlton)

Dr. Ruth Westheimer was sworn in Thursday as D.C.'s "Secretary of Love and Relationships" in a ceremony at the National Press Club. The pioneering TV sex therapist took the oath on a box of chocolates, touted the C&O Canal ("If you go there and hold hands, I promise you there will be stars that night"), and fretted about all the "lonely people" here.

A stunt, of course, for the city's tourism council, promoting Washington as a romantic getaway. But hey, finally someone to help our VIPs with their romantic complications! We sidled up to her at the 10th-anniversary party for the downtown Ritz-Carlton to ask ... any advice for Peter Orszag?

"I have nevah in my long career offered advice to a politician!" the tiny 81-year-old roared at us (then turned to coo "Helloooo!" to a passing fan). "Unless they are in my office! And then you would nevah know!"