One of my pet peeves is when someone uses the name within a somewhat vague reference and mentions 'Washington' but doesn't point out specifically whether they are talking about Washington State or Washington, DC. I hear this in movies or on the radio sometimes and it's not always clear which they mean. Obviously, some references need no distinction whatsoever but others could use a little help.
Ex: 'Maybe a trip to Washington would make for an interesting vacation.'
WHICH Washington!?!?!? Give us a freaking clue! They're both interesting.
No help needed here though:
A Californian says: 'Maybe I'll drive up to Washington for the day and pick some apples.'
Anyone says: 'If it weren't for the idiots in Washington, maybe the rest of the world wouldn't hate us so much.'