Back From The Apple

I am back from New York.  It was an amazing visit.  Michael Bergman was an excellent ambassador for the city and made sure we did everything we set out to accomplish.

I stayed at the W Hotel in Times Square.  Great vicinity and nice hotel.  It is true that the lights are so bright at night that it seems like daylight.  At least, my camera's flash thought so. On Monday, we went to Ground Zero and paid our respects to those who lost their lives on 9/11/2001.  The Memorial Plaza is coming along very well.  We then walked down to Wall Street.  Such history.

That night, after a fantastic steak dinner at Frankie and Johnnies, Michael and I walked to the Empire State Building for a view from the observation deck. Given the time of year and the time of day, there was no line. Given that the wait can be 2.5 - 3 hours, this was welcome.  And thanks to how clear it was, the view was amazing.  My fear of heights did get the best of me but that didn't stop us from ascending to the 102th floor, as well. 

Tuesday started with a Movie and TV Show bus tour.  Such celluloid history.  Great time.  Then Michael and I continued our foot tour.  First we went to Rockefeller Plaza.  No need for the Rainbow Deck.  I'd had enough heights for one trip.  The to Central Park and the Dakota.  I had to pay my respect to John Lennon at his home and at Strawberry Fields in Central Park. 

After that, it was time for the awards dinner.  We ended up receiving second prize.  Very exciting and quite an honor.  The dinner was held on the Intrepid.  It was my first Aircraft Carrier.

I really enjoyed the trip and love New York.  Sure it's a cliche but the city is so alive and vibrant.  There is a real kinship between New York and Chicago and it made me feel right at home.