NYC v.37

We could spend years in New York City, and never visit everything worth seeing, so we chose a few things that every American should see, and a few more "just because".

We visited Ellis Island.  You can sign up to get help to research family members who may have passed through there.  They said you can do it on line for free, but we haven't tried it yet.

 I knew that the statue of Liberty was a gift from France, but I didn't know that the Americans were responsible for her base.  Donations trickled in and Joseph Pulitzer is credited with saving the day by offering to publish each donor's name in his newspaper, no matter how small the donation.  He is vilified for exploiting child labor in the musical, "Newsies", which we also saw- Becca will write about that.  In 2 days he was mentioned as a villain then a hero- educational opportunities abound!

This sphere was in the World Trade Center Plaza, and was meant to symbolize world peace through trade. It is now displayed without repairs in Battery Park in lower Manhattan, as a memorial to 9/11 victims.

Here is a link to its original condition:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Sphere_before_Sept_11.jpg

I think I read somewhere that in the original plan for the Empire State Building, there was a dock for a dirigible, as blimps were called back then.  On the way to the observation deck are displayed some of the plans- for a mooring mechanism and exit ramp.  Cool.  It wasn't even a busy day- we hardly waited at all for the elevators, but I showed my true colors in the smaller than normal crowd.  I couldn't get out of there fast enough, and was happy to spring for the extra ride even higher- to the 102nd floor.  Heights don't bother me- crowds do.  So that's why I like to shop on line!

Parking space is at a premium in the city.  I found this a fascinating solution!

 Blue Man Group- What a blast!!  I never liked the ads- I thought they were a little creepy...  Some friends insisted (thank you Hal :)).  Becca laughed the whole time!  They are in a little theater perfectly suited to them .  Bob had to meet us there as he was flying in, and the box office folks were great.  We were in the "poncho" section- it can get kind of messy.  If you go, don't be late, unless you want your late entry to be announced as you find your seat by spotlight!  Great fun!

Outside Blue Man Group theater

Becca and Blue Man with the "spit painting" they gave her