Journals 5-9
5. East Harlem + Central Park
This week we went on yet another adventure. Quite frankly I had no clue where we would be headed this week, which kind of excited me for what the day would hold. Mike informed us that we would be headings towards East Harlem. At first I didn't know what there really was to see in East Harlem. Honestly every time I think Harlem I think about crime and it being unsafe. Clearly I was in for a huge surprise there. I did not expect (once again) for East Harlem to actually be as beautiful as it was. "East Harlem- also known as Spanish Harlem or, more colloquially, "El Barrio" - is an uptown neighborhood of Manhattan, the boundaries which are the Harlem River to the north, East 96th Street to the south, the East river to the east, and Fifth Avenue to the west" (ENY, p. 161). One thing I have to say about every location that we have visited thus far is that each place has its own unique charm. There is just so much to see in New York and now I know why everyone is dying to come here. I've lived here my entire life and I've been in the dark about 95% of the places that we have gone to.
This week we went on yet another adventure. Quite frankly I had no clue where we would be headed this week, which kind of excited me for what the day would hold. Mike informed us that we would be headings towards East Harlem. At first I didn't know what there really was to see in East Harlem. Honestly every time I think Harlem I think about crime and it being unsafe. Clearly I was in for a huge surprise there. I did not expect (once again) for East Harlem to actually be as beautiful as it was. "East Harlem- also known as Spanish Harlem or, more colloquially, "El Barrio" - is an uptown neighborhood of Manhattan, the boundaries which are the Harlem River to the north, East 96th Street to the south, the East river to the east, and Fifth Avenue to the west" (ENY, p. 161). One thing I have to say about every location that we have visited thus far is that each place has its own unique charm. There is just so much to see in New York and now I know why everyone is dying to come here. I've lived here my entire life and I've been in the dark about 95% of the places that we have gone to.
Initially when we got into Harlem I still had this stereotype sitting in the back of my mind. I was curious to see what Harlem had to offer and another part of me was very skeptical. Who knew that the area just on the other side of the world famous Central Park was East Harlem? Not me! "The area just north of Central Park is a multicultural melting pot with three distinct communities- East Harlem, Morningside Heights, and Harlem- each with its own history, architecture and institutions" (ENY, p.161). We started the day by heading to look at the Carver Houses (aka the projects). This was an area that was created for the poor to live in, but that is now coming to an end with gentrification. They are trying to bring in more and more of this in order to have the community strive and get rid of the projects and create a better community. "As you cross Park Avenue, you'll be walking through the Carver Houses, a housing project of 13 buildings that was created for low income residents of the neighborhood and completed in 1958" (ENY,p. 162).
We continued to stroll through the neighborhood of East Harlem and we got to know the streets. As we went along I began to realize that the stereotype that I had in mind was not what I expected. Our next stop was a The Museum of the City of New York. "The museum has changing exhibitions focused on the history of New York City, especially its heritage of diversity, opportunity, and perpetual transformation" (ENY, p. 162). The museum was absolutely stunning. From the second we walked in I fell in love with the light fixtures. The place had a story to tell about New York unlike any story that we have ever heard. We were able to walk around the museum and look around at the paintings and photos of what New York was like before it became what it was today and how it evolved into the empire that it is today. We watched an awesome video on the history of New York, which really tied it all together. Its amazing how much the city has evolved and how much work it took to build what it is today.
My favorite part of the Museum of the City of New York was the Tiffany & Co. Foundation Gallery: Gilded New York. This section showed us about the visual culture of New York in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The collection had stunning one of a kind costumes, jewelry and silverware. I can't even begin to imagine how much it costs to have one of those pieces (if its even for sale). I really loved seeing the jewelry that was used back then and how beautiful it was. Each piece had its own unique detail. I could not pick out my favorite piece because there were too many to choose from. I was glad that we were able to walk through the gallery and admire all of the beauty that each piece had to offer us.
Once we wrapped up at the Museum of the City of New York we were off to our next adventure "El Museo del Barrio". "The museum was founded in 1969 in a public school classroom in PS125 by Puerto Rican activists from East Harlem, seeking to preserve their cultural heritage" (ENY, p.163). This is where we met our tour guide Luke. He was definitely one of the most unique and positive people that I have met so far on our Gotham journey. I really enjoyed listening to him speak about what he was involved in and how he was trying to help other communities all over the United States and even World Wide come together. His poetry was very inspirational and he really has a completely different view of the world than I have. I can respect what he does because he is trying to make a difference one community at a time. Starting with East Harlem, he spoke about the beauty of the community and he brought out things that were also very unique to the neighborhood and beautiful all at the same time. I really felt the sense of latino pride in East Harlem. It was a warm and welcoming community, unlike anything that I had imagined prior to arriving there. Luke showed us around the neighborhood he took us to the little garden area which was created by the community. I could not get over the fallopian tube sculpture that was in the middle of the garden. I had never seen anything like that before, it was bazaar yet it still had its own beauty. The mural that was on the side of the building was also very powerful and the mural that they had of Frida and Julia de burgos was amazing. "Along the wall at the back of the park is one of East Harlem's most intriguing murals, "Soledaderas". I did not expect for there to be a piece of art work like this in the middle of the park. I thought that gave one of the most powerful messages that women are also respected in the community, regardless of the macho man attitude that many latino men are known to have. I thought it was great that they could display that on the wall and show what the community is like. I thought that it was really a beautiful thing that the community tried to bring pieces of their heritage back in Puerto Rico right here. It was nice to see a sense of connection throughout the entire community. Everyone was very welcoming.
The community was very welcoming, probably one of the most welcoming communities that I have ever been to. Not only were the people awesome, but so was the food. It was the best meal that I have had all semester (sorry Mike and Meritta). The tacos were to die for, literally. I can not wait to go back there with my fiance and my family. I had 2 tacos. Thats a lot for a little person like me, but I could not control myself because the food was that good. I even tried the guacamole and chips, finger licking good. I would highly recommend this place to anyone. The food was fresh and prepared right in front of you. It was a hole in the wall place that made the best tacos I have ever had!
After lunch I was dragging my feet a bit, but I immediately perked up once I realized we would be walking across all of Central Park. This is probably my favorite location in all of NYC. Although the park is man made it still does not take away the beauty of it. I have been going to Central Park for a few years now with my mom. She is a nanny in NYC and pretty much spends most of her days in the park. I tag along and we make a day of it sometimes. There is so much to see in this park and there is always something going on, never a dull moment. I was glad that we were able to tour the park with Mike because I was able to see it from another perspective. I noted many things that I never even noticed before a the park. It was great to be able to see it with the class.
Walking through central park never gets old. I had no idea that the park actually ran from East Harlem all the way over the the west side. It was awesome that we got to walk across the entire park! I have never done that before although I have been there countless times we usually just stay on the west end. My favorite part on the east end was the gat it was so beautiful, so French (although the French hate us Americans ;). "This impressive entry way to Central Park was made in Paris in 1894 and originally stood in front of the Vanderbilt Mansion on Fifth Avenue and 58th Street" (ENY, p. 150). The entrance was definitely impressive, when we first walked up I did not even put together that this was Central Park. I had no clue that it ran this far! Once we walked in we were in a European style garden. It was stunning. I felt like we were in another country in Europe. "This garden- the only formal garden in Central PArk- is named for an 1898 greenhouse or conservatory that once stood on this site, but which was torn down in 1934. The current garden, which dates from 1937, was created in the depression-era WPA (works project administration) effort to provide work for unemployed New Yorkers" (ENY, p. 151). The garden was probably one of my favorite places that we visited in Central Park just because I felt like I was no longer in New York and I had stepped into a fairytale garden located somewhere in the middle of Europe!
The Reservoir in Central Park truly had some amazing views. I could not get over the fact that this was all man made. Who would have ever imagined? "The reservoir is 40 feet deep and holds over 1 billion gallons of water (ENY, p.151). The amount of work that was put into building the city of New York was immense and now here we are enjoying the beauty of the hard work that was put into it. Every time that I am in central park I am amazed by the amount of people doing physical exercise such as running and bicycling. It really motivates you to get into good shape. "This is one of New York's best spots for running and you'll have to share the 1.58 mile pathway around the reservoir with numerous health conscious Manhattanites" (ENY, p. 151). How could you not want to get into shape with a park like that to run through? I know that would motivate me to get up every day and go for a run.
We were also able to walk through the famous Ramble. "This is Central Park's version of a forested glen, replete with winding trails and a cascading brook. Designed by Olmstead as a "wild garden," the Ramble truly is the one place in New York City where a person can get completely lost in nature" (ENY, p. 154). This area kind of looks like a mess if you ask me. The rest of the park is so pretty and landscaped beautifully and the Ramble looks as though a hurricane ran through it and no one cleaned it up. Not exactly my cup of tea. I would say its my least favorite area in Central Park although many love birds are found in the Rambles doing romantic things. I'm sure its nice to get lost in there and do the whole nature thing, but it is just not my favorite!
We then moved onto the Obelisk Conservation. "Directly behind the Metropolitan Museum near 81st Street is the 3,500 year old Egyptian Obelisk- the oldest monument by far in the city of New York" (ENY, p. 153). Again, I did not even know that this existed in Central Park. I could not believe that this was there and I had never seen it before, its currently being fixed up so we were not able to see it very well. I will most certainly be returning once the project is completed to see it in all its glory!
We were also able to walk through the famous Ramble. "This is Central Park's version of a forested glen, replete with winding trails and a cascading brook. Designed by Olmstead as a "wild garden," the Ramble truly is the one place in New York City where a person can get completely lost in nature" (ENY, p. 154). This area kind of looks like a mess if you ask me. The rest of the park is so pretty and landscaped beautifully and the Ramble looks as though a hurricane ran through it and no one cleaned it up. Not exactly my cup of tea. I would say its my least favorite area in Central Park although many love birds are found in the Rambles doing romantic things. I'm sure its nice to get lost in there and do the whole nature thing, but it is just not my favorite!
We then moved onto the Obelisk Conservation. "Directly behind the Metropolitan Museum near 81st Street is the 3,500 year old Egyptian Obelisk- the oldest monument by far in the city of New York" (ENY, p. 153). Again, I did not even know that this existed in Central Park. I could not believe that this was there and I had never seen it before, its currently being fixed up so we were not able to see it very well. I will most certainly be returning once the project is completed to see it in all its glory!
Moving along we were off to one of my favorite places in Central Park, the John Lennon memorial "Strawberry Fields". "The memorial was designed by landscape artist Bruce Kelly, who created a meditative environment centered upon a circular black and white tile mosaic bearing the title of one of Lennon's most inspiring songs, "Imagine" (ENY, p. 156). Every time I am in Central Park I never miss an opportunity to walk through StrawBerry Fields, it is such a nice environment. Its calm and filled with serenity. Fans come to honor the memory of John Lennon. It is the most peaceful part of the Park its where people who do not even know one another to remember a legend. I never realized that the area where the memorial is located is in the shape of a tear drop. I must admit that was a very clever idea especially because many die hard fans are still not over what happened to John Lennon.
We finished off our day with music, bubbles and ballerinas at the Bethesda Terrace. "Just about halfway through your walk- in what is is regarded as the heart of Central Park- you'll come to Bethesda Terrace - a graceful promenade leading to the Central Park lake" (ENY, p. 155). This area is where everyone tends to come together. It was packed with people sitting by the fountain, admiring the ballerina dancing around, listening to the opera singer in the passageway beneath Bethesda Terrace, or just sitting by the lake feeding the turtles and fishing! It was a great time. I took a minute to just sit down by the lake and take in all of the beauty that Central Park shared with us today. It was a great experience and I am so glad that we were able to spend the last part of the day walking through Central Park from east to west and enjoying every minute of it!
6. Frick Museum +Times Square + Harlem
This week we started our adventure at the Frick Museum. I have heard a lot of buzz about it in the past, but never actually made my way over there. Luckily today was my lucky day and I got to see what all of the hype was about. Unfortunately we weren’t able to take too many photos. I wasn’t able to capture all of the beauty that the mansion had to offer. Our tour guide was very informative. She walked us through the main rooms and spoke about the pieces of artwork, which Frick chose very deliberately in his “modestly sized” home. The collection was the home of Frick and they tried to keep everything, as it was when it was first built.
My favorite part of the entire tour was the garden. It was beautiful. I did not think that they would have a fountain with water in the middle of it, but they did! It was really unique. I have to say Frick did miss the bill on the “modest” part - this home was far from small and far from simple. It was very elaborate and lavish. Our tour guide informed us that Frick’s plan all along was to turn his home into a museum! He definitely succeeded at that since this is one of the best-known places to visit in NYC. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, furniture, beautiful rugs, detailed molding on the walls, and the list goes on. Another part of the museum, which really caught my attention, was the painting with Saint Francis of Assisi. It was the only religious painting that Frick had in his entire collection, which I found to be very interesting. Our guide informed us that he most likely chose to have that piece in the collection not so much because of the religious aspect, but more so because of the beauty of the scenery in the picture.
All of the artwork that he had on display was beautiful. Each one had its own story behind it. Our guide said that when Frick was unable to fall asleep he would get up in the middle of the night and walk around looking at all of the art work. One of my favorites was the painting called Veronese choice of Hercules. This was a representation of Hercules having to choose between good and evil. At first glance I thought that it might have been two women fighting over him, but as the tour guide explained the differences and why it became clearer to me. Personally I thought that it was an awesome painting because as human beings that’s a decision that we need to sometimes back on a daily basis. Will you go with a good or a bad decision? The artwork that was on display was unlike anything that I have ever seen. I was glad that we were able to visit this museum and have a great experience!
All of the artwork that he had on display was beautiful. Each one had its own story behind it. Our guide said that when Frick was unable to fall asleep he would get up in the middle of the night and walk around looking at all of the art work. One of my favorites was the painting called Veronese choice of Hercules. This was a representation of Hercules having to choose between good and evil. At first glance I thought that it might have been two women fighting over him, but as the tour guide explained the differences and why it became clearer to me. Personally I thought that it was an awesome painting because as human beings that’s a decision that we need to sometimes back on a daily basis. Will you go with a good or a bad decision? The artwork that was on display was unlike anything that I have ever seen. I was glad that we were able to visit this museum and have a great experience!
We then moved onto the next location! Lincoln Center, it’s a really beautiful place walking up to it. I love it because it looks so classy and clearly because the opera is performed there. I want to go back and experience the opera for myself (even though Mike stated that he literally fell asleep when he went). I still would like to go just to see what its all about and at least say that I have been to the opera once in my life, even if it does wind up being a borefest. Personally, I think that he chandelier that was in the middle of the staircase was beautiful. Its not your typical chandelier. Its more modern, which is the direction that everything is going now. I also thought it was interesting that they actually chose to go with a more modern chandelier given the location and what the venue is used for. I associate the opera with something more classy and timeless.
Of course by the afternoon all of our stomachs start rumbling! We were off to try some Thai food. Thankfully, I LOVE Thai food so I was very excited about this. The name of the place that we went to was called “Yum Yum.” The food was delicious. I decided to play it safe I ordered chicken fried rice with a side of spring rolls. It was a very good meal and the ambiance was also very nice. Thanks again Mike and Meritta for the delicious lunch!
Times square was our next brief stop! We pretty much walked through so that we could catch the subway and head into Harlem, but I feel like there doesn’t need to be much time spent there especially with the amount of people swarming through t he streets. “It is recognized as both the world’s busiest intersection as well as the world’s most popular tourist attraction” (ENY, p. 117). It was jam packed, but it was still very nice to be able to walk through and see all of the lights from the buildings. Next time I do go back into Times Square I want to go into Madame Trousseaus and see what everyone has been raving about!
Times square was our next brief stop! We pretty much walked through so that we could catch the subway and head into Harlem, but I feel like there doesn’t need to be much time spent there especially with the amount of people swarming through t he streets. “It is recognized as both the world’s busiest intersection as well as the world’s most popular tourist attraction” (ENY, p. 117). It was jam packed, but it was still very nice to be able to walk through and see all of the lights from the buildings. Next time I do go back into Times Square I want to go into Madame Trousseaus and see what everyone has been raving about!
Our last stop for the day was back into the heart of Harlem. This was unlike the Harlem that we visited last week. I felt like East Harlem was much more warm, welcoming and friendly. Here I felt if you walked a few blocks in the wrong direction things could go south very quickly! There were some beautiful sights to see including the most beautiful block in all of New York as stated by Mike. I did enjoy the tour and tour guide he was very informative and you could tell that he was very passionate about Harlem and the history that it held behind it.
The highlights for me in Harlem consisted of the Mother AME Zion Church, the row houses and the walk of fame. First off the Zion Church is really beautiful the detail on the outside with the stone was breath taking. I really love looking at old churches and the charm that they have. “The church was founded in 1796 by a group of prominent black Methodists, making it the oldest church in New York State” (ENY, p. 180). Now with the whole “modern wave” people forget how much time and manual labor went into building a place as beautiful as this. Next favorite on the list was Strivers Row- Mike was right about this; it was one of the most beautiful blocks that I have seen in New York! Who would have suspected such beauty to be in the middle of Harlem? Not me. “This area contains 130 of the best preserved row houses in Manhattan” (ENY, p. 181). I could not get over how beautiful the houses were and again all of the detail and molding that was on the houses. You could once again tell how much hard work went into building these homes and I can now appreciate why these homes cost millions of dollars. It is very unfortunate that they don’t make them this way anymore.
The highlights for me in Harlem consisted of the Mother AME Zion Church, the row houses and the walk of fame. First off the Zion Church is really beautiful the detail on the outside with the stone was breath taking. I really love looking at old churches and the charm that they have. “The church was founded in 1796 by a group of prominent black Methodists, making it the oldest church in New York State” (ENY, p. 180). Now with the whole “modern wave” people forget how much time and manual labor went into building a place as beautiful as this. Next favorite on the list was Strivers Row- Mike was right about this; it was one of the most beautiful blocks that I have seen in New York! Who would have suspected such beauty to be in the middle of Harlem? Not me. “This area contains 130 of the best preserved row houses in Manhattan” (ENY, p. 181). I could not get over how beautiful the houses were and again all of the detail and molding that was on the houses. You could once again tell how much hard work went into building these homes and I can now appreciate why these homes cost millions of dollars. It is very unfortunate that they don’t make them this way anymore.
Lastly, the Harlem Walk of Fame was another one of my favorites. “Commissioned by the Harlem Chamber of Commerce in 1955, the walk contains a series of bronze plaques designed by Otto Neals and Ogundipe Fayoumi to honor great African Americans who have made notable contributions in music, science, the arts, and public service” (ENY, p. 183). This was unique and I thought it was very nice that they did something like this for African Americans who made a difference. It was so beautifully done and reminded me of Hollywood’s walk of fame. I have to admit the last two trips that we took into Harlem have completely changed the “stereotype” that I had in mind about Harlem. It is not at all what I expected it to be it has definitely exceeded my expectations and then some. I would definitely consider going back into Harlem and exploring other areas that we did not get to see on the trips we took in!
7. Lower Manhattan
This week we ventured off into lower Manhattan. “Lower Manhattan- that section of the island between New York harbor to the south and city hall to the north- is where it all began for the city of New York” (ENY, p. 39). I was looking forward to this because I never really have been down there too often and barely knew anything about it. I have never been to the 9/11 memorial which was also something that I wanted to see. Mike gave us some background on lower Manhattan. I found it interesting that the southern edge of Manhattan was known as the five points. It was the dirtiest most violent place. The Irish gangs fought one another and there was violence occurring all of the time. Eventually the only solution would be for them to level it off and put a complete end to it, which is exactly what they did. I will also be making sure to watch gangs of New York, which is about what was going on at this time in New York.
Once we got into lower Manhattan we took some time to look around at the architecture and for once we were able to identify the style as Beaux Arts, finally it stuck! After many trial and errors we were able to name the type of architecture that we saw, thanks Mike and Meritta! There was a lot to see in lower Manhattan the buildings were beautiful and you could really tell of the hard work and attention to detail that was put into constructing them.
We arrived at City Hall I was hoping that maybe we could catch a quick glimpse of the mayor, but that wasn’t the case. Luckily much to my surprise we were able to get a tour of by our wonderful guide Gail. “Directly behind the station in City Hall Park is New York City Hall, which houses the offices of the Mayor and the City Council” (ENY, p. 40). I was excited that we were getting the grand tour and also getting the history. She was very informative and the décor inside of City Hall was breath taking.
Gail started the tour by telling us where we were standing is where George Washing read the Declaration of Independence on July 9th 1776. Staring us right in the face was City Hall this was a Neoclassical building. Once again you could see the hard work that was put into building it. “The interior of City Hall is every but as elegant as its exterior, and if you have the opportunity to tour it, you are well advised to do so” (ENY, p. 41). Once we entered the building there was a sculpture of George Washington. It is known to be the most accurate representation of his face. The sculptor did it by placing a plaster cast on his face and then sculpted from there. Also, much to my surprise he was much taller than what they portray him to be he was 6’3 only one inch shorter than the giant Lincoln!
We arrived at City Hall I was hoping that maybe we could catch a quick glimpse of the mayor, but that wasn’t the case. Luckily much to my surprise we were able to get a tour of by our wonderful guide Gail. “Directly behind the station in City Hall Park is New York City Hall, which houses the offices of the Mayor and the City Council” (ENY, p. 40). I was excited that we were getting the grand tour and also getting the history. She was very informative and the décor inside of City Hall was breath taking.
Gail started the tour by telling us where we were standing is where George Washing read the Declaration of Independence on July 9th 1776. Staring us right in the face was City Hall this was a Neoclassical building. Once again you could see the hard work that was put into building it. “The interior of City Hall is every but as elegant as its exterior, and if you have the opportunity to tour it, you are well advised to do so” (ENY, p. 41). Once we entered the building there was a sculpture of George Washington. It is known to be the most accurate representation of his face. The sculptor did it by placing a plaster cast on his face and then sculpted from there. Also, much to my surprise he was much taller than what they portray him to be he was 6’3 only one inch shorter than the giant Lincoln!
My favorite part of City Hall was the interior dome. It was really stunning. The governor’s room was also very elegant. “The room is filled with historic furniture- most notably, the desks of George Washington and Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia- and large portraits of some 19th century New York’s most prominent citizens. I enjoyed the fact that they preserved the furniture and the original architecture in City Hall with restorations through the years. Gail continued to tell us about the laws which are made here. Many discussions are had about cigarette smoking, speed limits, ect. They also discuss which buildings can be built in the city and also which ones can be taken down. All of this has to go through City Hall in order to be approved. The city budget is about 76 billion dollars, that’s quite a bit of money to go around. Unfortunately, our tour had to end. Gail was a very pleasant tour guide and I am thankful for the wonderful opportunity that we had. As Mike stated it is very difficult to get a tour.
Next we visited the Museum of the African Burial Ground. I could not believe that they discovered the African Burial Ground right here in New York after years and years had gone by. It came to light in 199, they found it during the early construction phase for the federal office building on Broadway. They found human bodies, which were buried here. They removed over 400 skeletal remains and they did research on this for over two years. This brought about an uproar in the African American Community and they wanted something to be done in memory of all of these people that were buried. The people wanted a place where they could have a memorial for the people that were buried here, which was understandable. They fought for their voice to be heard and it was. “In 2007 a memorial was opened in the building to highlight the important role that African Slaves played in the development of New York City” (ENY, p. 45).
After leaving the museum we took a lunch break, which was pleasant for the most part. The chipotle was amazing (as usual), but unfortunately due to the high volume of people in chipotle we did not have anywhere to sit. So we ended up just finding a bench and sitting outside. At first I was not looking forward to doing that, but as the time went on the people watching got better. So it was a great lunch break after all!
After lunch we were dragging out feet a bit, but we quickly picked up the pace to keep up with Mike! We went to St. Paul’s Chapel. “As you enter the chapel, pay attention to its exquisite details – particularly the handcrafted woodwork by noted craftsman Andrew Gautier and the gilded ornamental decoration over the altar by Pierre Charles L’Enfant, who designed the city of Washington” (ENY, p. 47). This Chapel was not only known for its ornate beauty, but it was also known for surviving the terrorist attacks of 9/11. “Although it was directly across the street from the World Trade Center, the Chapel miraculously survived the terrorist attacks on September 11th , 2001 that destroyed the nearby Twin Towers without even broken windows” (ENY, p. 47). It was a miracle that the chapel was not destroyed with the terrorist attacks. There was a lot of speculation regarding how this happened – was it divine intervention? I absolutely believe that it was. I could not believe that the chapel survived. It had to have been the power of God that protected anything from happening to that church. Let the skeptics come up with their theories; no one is changing my mind on that one.
After lunch we were dragging out feet a bit, but we quickly picked up the pace to keep up with Mike! We went to St. Paul’s Chapel. “As you enter the chapel, pay attention to its exquisite details – particularly the handcrafted woodwork by noted craftsman Andrew Gautier and the gilded ornamental decoration over the altar by Pierre Charles L’Enfant, who designed the city of Washington” (ENY, p. 47). This Chapel was not only known for its ornate beauty, but it was also known for surviving the terrorist attacks of 9/11. “Although it was directly across the street from the World Trade Center, the Chapel miraculously survived the terrorist attacks on September 11th , 2001 that destroyed the nearby Twin Towers without even broken windows” (ENY, p. 47). It was a miracle that the chapel was not destroyed with the terrorist attacks. There was a lot of speculation regarding how this happened – was it divine intervention? I absolutely believe that it was. I could not believe that the chapel survived. It had to have been the power of God that protected anything from happening to that church. Let the skeptics come up with their theories; no one is changing my mind on that one.
Lastly the part of the day we headed into the financial district. I was looking forward to visiting the 9/11 Memorial. Once we arrived it was packed with a sea of tourists. “The World Trade Center was a 16 acre commercial complex built between 1966 and 1987, which contained seven buildings and an underground shopping mall centered around a large plaza” (ENY, p. 48). They were the tallest buildings until the terrorist attacks in NYC. I have not been down there since before the attacks happened which was over 10 years ago. We lost two family members that day, My uncle and my Godmothers husband. It was tragic so many lives were lost and so many heroes went into the turmoil to try and save lives. So much was lost that day. I was happy to see what they have done with the area and how beautiful the memorial was. The memorial reflects absence and where the two towers once were there are two waterfalls that go into a black void, which symbolizes what, happened that day. Mike told us about the tree that survived the 9/11 terrorist attacks I could not believe it! It is called the sycamore tree and it was brought to Canada to be “nursed” back to health and it now stands in the memorial as well.
We finished off the day by walking through the financial district and seeing the New York stock exchange. I enjoyed the area because there was not as much traffic with cars, but more so with people. We were able to weave through the side streets with out fear of getting hit by a car! It was another great day of walking around the city and getting cultured. I once again was able to experience things for the first time- for example going to the 9/11 memorial. It was beautiful and I am looking forward to going back some time in the near future to actually go into the museum.
8. Immigration in NYC + China Town
Today was bittersweet because it would be our last class! I have to admit I am really going to miss coming into the city on Fridays. I may have to make coming into the city every Friday for the rest of the semester a tradition. I really enjoyed this semester and I am so happy that I was able to take this class and get the New York experience.
We got started on the day by heading to the Tenement museum on the Lower East Side. “The historically working class neighborhood of the Lower East Side is located on the southeastern part of Manhattan” (ENY, p. 65) This was at point the most crowded and poorest areas in the world. Our tour guide Berto showed us the recreated apartments and told us about the lives of many Jewish families that immigrated here. “Beginning in the mid 19th century millions of immigrants poured into New York, escaping from the famines, wars and persecutions that had become all too common in Europe at the time” (ENY, p.65). Berto informed us that tenement was just an older word for apartment building. This tenement in particular was constructed in 1863. There were 7000 people living here. The lower east side was known as the immigrant neighborhood - around the 1900 it was mostly a Jewish neighborhood.
We got started on the day by heading to the Tenement museum on the Lower East Side. “The historically working class neighborhood of the Lower East Side is located on the southeastern part of Manhattan” (ENY, p. 65) This was at point the most crowded and poorest areas in the world. Our tour guide Berto showed us the recreated apartments and told us about the lives of many Jewish families that immigrated here. “Beginning in the mid 19th century millions of immigrants poured into New York, escaping from the famines, wars and persecutions that had become all too common in Europe at the time” (ENY, p.65). Berto informed us that tenement was just an older word for apartment building. This tenement in particular was constructed in 1863. There were 7000 people living here. The lower east side was known as the immigrant neighborhood - around the 1900 it was mostly a Jewish neighborhood.
Berto started by telling us about the Levine family apartment. They came over in November 1897- they were immigrants from "Russia" at the time, but today it is known as Poland. They had 7 people living in the 3 bedroom apartment which was also the place which they worked. They manufactured dresses-6 days a week. They had 60-hour work week with 10 hour days. The main issue up for discussion as Berto stated was: How does work impact immigrant family dynamics? How do they preserve their heritage? This was a struggle for many immigrant Jewish families because they wanted to keep their traditions, but at the same time they were trying to make a new life in America. This required them to make many sacrifices.
In 1890- there were 23 garment factories on this block alone. There was a lot of competition for the Levine’s. They mass-produced the dresses, which was all done right in the apartments. The long hours, poor conditions -this all had an impact on the family dynamics. In two weeks they make about 75 dresses. They advertised in the daily tribune, which was sold uptown in a department store. They made dresses for middle and upper class consumers (about 40 cents to a dollar per dresses). They had the sweat shop in the apartment because he could see his kids grow up and also because they don't have to pay rent elsewhere. These are just some of the sacrifices that these families had to make in order to make a name for themselves in America.
The Levine’s are religious Orthodox Jews. This presented a conflict for them because the American workweek was Monday thru Saturday. Being that Mr. Levine had his sweatshop in his apartment he adjusted their schedule in order to be able to observe the Sabbath. They worked on Sunday's instead of Saturdays. He hired other people who also were from Russia and it didn't matter because they all spoke the Yiddish language. This was also very convenient because they did not have to worry about rushing to learn the English language so that they could get a job. They were able to work right away because of this.
They had public bathhouses where they only had 5 minutes to shower. People would sleep in the streets when it was very hot out in the summer because they did not have the luxury of air conditioning. Jenny Levine was the wife she represented the division between factory and home. They had no running water therefore she had to go get buckets of water for bathing, washing, ect. The midwife would come to help give birth to the baby when they were due to be delivered. Most women at this time would work in the house until they were about 8-9 months pregnant. She cooked for her family and also for the employees. The presser and the wife usually don't get along because they have to share such a small space. In Jenny’s situation they shared the place for 12 years.
The Levine’s eventually got a point where they were beginning to do well for themselves. They moved to Brooklyn to a better neighborhood. They were better off in class as the time went on and they kept up with their tradition. They fled Russia to escape Anti-Semitic violence. All 5 of their children survived. They lived the American Dream. They only paid 10 dollars a month to live where they did at the time. Although it was very difficult for them and they did not live in an ideal situation, they were able to persevere and in the end they made a wonderful life for their family in America.
When coming to America there were two different types of Jews. The Ashkenazi Jews and the Sephardic Jews. Central and Eastern Europeans were known as the Ashkenazi Jews. They spoke Yiddish. The Sephardic Jews who could trace back their family to Spain and Portugal- they migrated to Western Europe. They had a co-ethnic misunderstanding when they came to America because they didn't really speak the same language and they looked different.
The next family that Berto spoke to us about was the Rogarshevsky’s. They came in 1901, Abraham and Fanny, they lived here with their 6 children. They had running water, light, they had made changes which made living conditions much better for them. Berto informed us that you didn't want to sleep on the floor because you didn't know what was crawling around at nighttime. Abraham was a presser and Fanny was a housewife. Ida at 17 was working at a paper box factory. Morris at 15 was a shipping clerk. They had 4 incomes all together.
At one point Abraham was out for work for almost 3 months. He couldn't be the only person bringing in an income. He was relying on his teenage children to also provide for the family financially. He was trying to find a tenement sweatshop like Mr. Levine’s because this would allow his children to also follow the Jewish tradition and observe the Sabbath. Unfortunately his kids worked uptown so they would not be off on the Sabbath. The work impacted the family in a different way because they were unable to keep their religious tradition due to their work schedule. They can't go on strike because they needed an income and because Abraham wasn't working.
In 1890- there were 23 garment factories on this block alone. There was a lot of competition for the Levine’s. They mass-produced the dresses, which was all done right in the apartments. The long hours, poor conditions -this all had an impact on the family dynamics. In two weeks they make about 75 dresses. They advertised in the daily tribune, which was sold uptown in a department store. They made dresses for middle and upper class consumers (about 40 cents to a dollar per dresses). They had the sweat shop in the apartment because he could see his kids grow up and also because they don't have to pay rent elsewhere. These are just some of the sacrifices that these families had to make in order to make a name for themselves in America.
The Levine’s are religious Orthodox Jews. This presented a conflict for them because the American workweek was Monday thru Saturday. Being that Mr. Levine had his sweatshop in his apartment he adjusted their schedule in order to be able to observe the Sabbath. They worked on Sunday's instead of Saturdays. He hired other people who also were from Russia and it didn't matter because they all spoke the Yiddish language. This was also very convenient because they did not have to worry about rushing to learn the English language so that they could get a job. They were able to work right away because of this.
They had public bathhouses where they only had 5 minutes to shower. People would sleep in the streets when it was very hot out in the summer because they did not have the luxury of air conditioning. Jenny Levine was the wife she represented the division between factory and home. They had no running water therefore she had to go get buckets of water for bathing, washing, ect. The midwife would come to help give birth to the baby when they were due to be delivered. Most women at this time would work in the house until they were about 8-9 months pregnant. She cooked for her family and also for the employees. The presser and the wife usually don't get along because they have to share such a small space. In Jenny’s situation they shared the place for 12 years.
The Levine’s eventually got a point where they were beginning to do well for themselves. They moved to Brooklyn to a better neighborhood. They were better off in class as the time went on and they kept up with their tradition. They fled Russia to escape Anti-Semitic violence. All 5 of their children survived. They lived the American Dream. They only paid 10 dollars a month to live where they did at the time. Although it was very difficult for them and they did not live in an ideal situation, they were able to persevere and in the end they made a wonderful life for their family in America.
When coming to America there were two different types of Jews. The Ashkenazi Jews and the Sephardic Jews. Central and Eastern Europeans were known as the Ashkenazi Jews. They spoke Yiddish. The Sephardic Jews who could trace back their family to Spain and Portugal- they migrated to Western Europe. They had a co-ethnic misunderstanding when they came to America because they didn't really speak the same language and they looked different.
The next family that Berto spoke to us about was the Rogarshevsky’s. They came in 1901, Abraham and Fanny, they lived here with their 6 children. They had running water, light, they had made changes which made living conditions much better for them. Berto informed us that you didn't want to sleep on the floor because you didn't know what was crawling around at nighttime. Abraham was a presser and Fanny was a housewife. Ida at 17 was working at a paper box factory. Morris at 15 was a shipping clerk. They had 4 incomes all together.
At one point Abraham was out for work for almost 3 months. He couldn't be the only person bringing in an income. He was relying on his teenage children to also provide for the family financially. He was trying to find a tenement sweatshop like Mr. Levine’s because this would allow his children to also follow the Jewish tradition and observe the Sabbath. Unfortunately his kids worked uptown so they would not be off on the Sabbath. The work impacted the family in a different way because they were unable to keep their religious tradition due to their work schedule. They can't go on strike because they needed an income and because Abraham wasn't working.
Fanny needed to go out and buy food every day. The got food from the push cart vendors. They would also go to a kosher butcher shop. They had many signs in English and also Yiddish, which facilitated things for them. Fanny was trying to keep tradition. Their practices were effected by the children's work uptown they were unable to keep up. So in order to try and maintain some sort of Jewish tradition, they at least celebrated on Friday at sundown.
Abraham passed away from tuberculosis in 1918. Fanny was left a widow. She went to the landlord and negotiated living rent free. She did this by being in charge of building that they lived in and also the one across the street. Fanny became the Superintendent. In 1924 the family changed their last name to Rosenthal it was their way of Americanizing it. In 1941 Fanny moved to public housing and then moved with the rest of the family to Brooklyn. Although they did also experience their hardships they were also able to move ahead in America and make a name for themselves as well.
Down the line the tenement-housing act came into play- they needed to have more light and air. Tenements were associated with disease and they wanted to try and eliminate that. The building that we visited was only a residency until 1935 then it was condemned for health and safety. The landlord didn't have enough money to renovate the space. So the floors were left to decay. Ruth was an activist that wanted to talk about the immigrant museum. She felt the tenement museum that we visited today was perfect for this. She had many pieces put up for display such as: the ticket that they needed to have to get into the synagogue to go in for high holiday so that they could get a seat; Scissors tell the story of the garment industry; ect. This was about ordinary people and their hopes and dreams and the work that they do.
Being at this museum truly makes you think about family history with immigration and what their experience was like. It must have been very difficult for them to come to a new country without knowing the language in hopes of making a better life for their loved ones. It was not an easy task, but these people came to America with a goal in mind and they would not stop until that goal was attained. Visiting this museum was a serious eye opener about how lucky we are that we were born and raised in America. We take things just like speaking English for granted. Millions of people would do anything to have the privilege that we have. This is why we should be proud to be Americans and to live in the greatest city in the world!
Abraham passed away from tuberculosis in 1918. Fanny was left a widow. She went to the landlord and negotiated living rent free. She did this by being in charge of building that they lived in and also the one across the street. Fanny became the Superintendent. In 1924 the family changed their last name to Rosenthal it was their way of Americanizing it. In 1941 Fanny moved to public housing and then moved with the rest of the family to Brooklyn. Although they did also experience their hardships they were also able to move ahead in America and make a name for themselves as well.
Down the line the tenement-housing act came into play- they needed to have more light and air. Tenements were associated with disease and they wanted to try and eliminate that. The building that we visited was only a residency until 1935 then it was condemned for health and safety. The landlord didn't have enough money to renovate the space. So the floors were left to decay. Ruth was an activist that wanted to talk about the immigrant museum. She felt the tenement museum that we visited today was perfect for this. She had many pieces put up for display such as: the ticket that they needed to have to get into the synagogue to go in for high holiday so that they could get a seat; Scissors tell the story of the garment industry; ect. This was about ordinary people and their hopes and dreams and the work that they do.
Being at this museum truly makes you think about family history with immigration and what their experience was like. It must have been very difficult for them to come to a new country without knowing the language in hopes of making a better life for their loved ones. It was not an easy task, but these people came to America with a goal in mind and they would not stop until that goal was attained. Visiting this museum was a serious eye opener about how lucky we are that we were born and raised in America. We take things just like speaking English for granted. Millions of people would do anything to have the privilege that we have. This is why we should be proud to be Americans and to live in the greatest city in the world!
Our next stop was our scavenger hunt! We went all around China town and Canal Street. “Upon entering China Town, you’ll be forgiven if you feel as though you’ve left New York completely and have been transported to the opposite side of the planet” (ENY, 72). I felt like I was no longer in NYC, but in China! I was excited because I tried bubble tea for the first time. It was delicious and I will definitely being feeding my new addiction again this week! But even more so I could not get over how delicious the pork buns were. They were so savory and your mouth literally explodes with flavor. It was exciting to be able to walk through Canal Street and get lost for a little bit. I actually enjoyed doing that because we were able to find our way around Chinatown without getting lost!
I was surprised that there wasn’t too much shopping on Canal Street. “This is the place to buy some of the freshest seafood, fruits, and vegetables in the city. This is also the home of New York’s knock-off designer market, where, if you are worried about trade infringements, you can get some amazing deals on fake verions of your favorite high-end items” (ENY, p. 77). I was actually disappointed because I was really looking forward to getting some great deals today, but I did not get so lucky. Potentially could have been a good thing because I don’t need any more than I already have sitting in my closet! On our journey through China Town we also stepped into the Mahayana Buddhist Temple, which was very nice to see and experience. I was considering purchasing some jade, but again nothing was very enticing when it came to purchasing in China Town. Thankfully the food made the entire trip worth it! We had our amazing authentic Chinese lunch with the entire class. That was very enjoyable – the fried chicken was sinfully good. Thanks again Mike and Meritta!
The final part of our day was spent on another fantastic tour with Jim! He started by taking us down to Eldridge Street and Rivington there was an old public school that closed down in 1942 and then turned into apartments. There was also the first settlement house in the U.S.- they established this to settle in the neighborhood of the people 1889. This is still very active socially and culturally to this day. There were many famous people who came through those doors. Eleanor Roosevelt taught dancing classes at the settlement house.
Jim told us about the 1879 tenement law (which berto also informed us about earlier) they had to have running water and outside privy. Then later on they needed to have a window to the outside world to decrease disease and increase ventilation. By 1916 the last tenement law - fire escapes (zoning) had to have an internal fire proof staircase. If the building was built before 1916 and you can see that they have an outdoor fire escape. Which ultimately means that they don't have a fire proof staircase and the building was built before 1916- if you see the outside fire escape.
We then stopped at Economy candy. “Economy Candy is an old time candy store that has sweets that you probably haven’t seen since your childhood” (ENY, p. 67). It was a huge candy store filled with sweets and treats that if exceeded could definitely make you a candidate for diabetes type 2 (some nursing humor for you). I was excited to be in there and get some of my fiancés favorites- warheads, sour gummy bears, and even some cat butt gum as a gag.
We then stopped at Economy candy. “Economy Candy is an old time candy store that has sweets that you probably haven’t seen since your childhood” (ENY, p. 67). It was a huge candy store filled with sweets and treats that if exceeded could definitely make you a candidate for diabetes type 2 (some nursing humor for you). I was excited to be in there and get some of my fiancés favorites- warheads, sour gummy bears, and even some cat butt gum as a gag.
Jim then took us by the Williamsburg bridge. It was built to remove the density of the lower east side - many Jews went over the bridge and planted themselves on the other side of the bridge (such as the Levine’s and Rosenthal’s). It was also known as the Jews highway. Right underneath the entrance of the bridge is an underground terminal that they used for trolleys. Jim gave us a fun fact that because the J and Z train take your across this is where the rapper JAY-Z gets his name from! Unbelievable, I should have thought of that. Jim also told us about the “Mikva” this is where Jewish women had to bathe themselves before they married a man. They needed to purify themselves and it was done with rainwater.
Onto one of the last parts of the day was when we visited the Henry street settlement, which was created by Lillian Wald. “The Henry Street Settlement was founded by Lillian Wald, a 25-year-old nursing student who was appalled by the conditions that she encountered on the Lower east side while volunteering to teach classes on home health care to immigrant women” (ENY, p. 69). I was so excited to see where history was made, especially since I am nursing student and because I wrote my paper on her. She brought the Visiting Nursing Services to New York. She made history because she did something that had never been done before. Again she showed the importance of having a set goal and doing whatever it takes in order to accomplish it. I’m happy to see that the place is still around and that the building is really beautifully preserved.
Onto one of the last parts of the day was when we visited the Henry street settlement, which was created by Lillian Wald. “The Henry Street Settlement was founded by Lillian Wald, a 25-year-old nursing student who was appalled by the conditions that she encountered on the Lower east side while volunteering to teach classes on home health care to immigrant women” (ENY, p. 69). I was so excited to see where history was made, especially since I am nursing student and because I wrote my paper on her. She brought the Visiting Nursing Services to New York. She made history because she did something that had never been done before. Again she showed the importance of having a set goal and doing whatever it takes in order to accomplish it. I’m happy to see that the place is still around and that the building is really beautifully preserved.
Our very last stop for the day and for class was the Synagogue Museum on Eldridge street. “One of the architectural masterpieces of the Lower east side, this synagogue was constructed in 1887 and was the first synagogue in New York built by Eastern European Jews” (ENY, p. 71). It was a beautiful synagogue was that was restored and turned into a Museum. It was absolutely breath taking from the outside. I was glad that we were able to see it and I’m glad that we had such the pleasure of getting a tour from Jim not once, but twice!
It was one of my favorite days because for a little bit we were able to get lost in the city and find our way around. Thankfully we were able to do that from all the training that Mike and Meritta put us through over the last 6 weeks. I was sad that it was our last class, but I am so happy that we had such a wonderful day and got to experience all that we did!
It was one of my favorite days because for a little bit we were able to get lost in the city and find our way around. Thankfully we were able to do that from all the training that Mike and Meritta put us through over the last 6 weeks. I was sad that it was our last class, but I am so happy that we had such a wonderful day and got to experience all that we did!
Final Impression's of NYC
This course has truly taught me more than I could have ever imagine about NYC. I always wanted to get to know more about my own city and when I was told about this course I could not wait to take it. It was a no brainer for me because I really wanted to get to know my own city. People come from all over the world to get to visit New York and my goal this semester was to get to know it too. I did not expect for there to be as much walking as there was, but it was very beneficial because we got to burn calories along the way! I enjoyed meeting at Penn station every Friday morning. One of my favorite parts of being in Penn Station was being able to get my Starbucks coffee and my egg sandwich! I needed my protein and my caffeine to get me going to the adventure that each day held.
Mike and Meritta did an amazing job of showing us all around the city. I cannot wait to take back my fiancé back to the city and my family and show them all of the places that we have explored. One of my favorite places was the Museum of the Moving image. I will more than likely be going there some time in the near future. It is one of the most popular museums right now in NYC and I cannot wait to take him there to show him all around. Another adventure which we went on that I cannot wait to go back and do was walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. It was so much fun and I honestly never thought I would do it. I was so proud of myself for stepping outside of my comfort zone this semester. I was able to do things that I have never done before!
There is so so much that we saw in NYC and there is still so much more to be seen. It is amazing that I have lived here my entire life and I really don’t know too much about my own city, which to me is shameful. Thankfully, after having taken this course I really feel that I am more cultured and I know so much more about NYC. All of the different cultures that are within our city really struck me. Even though we are American there are so many different people who are not from America in our country. I enjoyed actually seeing this in The Barrio in Harlem and in China town. When you step into these different areas in the city you really feel like you have left NYC and went into another country. I was aware of the strong Chinese culture which existed in Chinatown, but completely unaware of The Barrio and how strong the Spanish community is there. This is just one of the many reasons that I love NYC because it’s a mix of so many different cultures all coming together for the American Dream.
What I loved the most about NYC was seeing all of the people and how hard they work. In every part of the city that we visited there was some one trying to live their dream. Whether it was working hard to make a better life for their family in a restaurant or sitting in the middle of central park playing an instrument because that’s what they love to do. NYC is a place where you can make your dreams a reality as long as you are willing to work hard enough for it. You can do what you love even if it isn’t the cookie cutter job that many people have in mind- such as becoming a doctor or working on Wall Street. That’s the beauty of this city because there is something for everyone to do here.
Being able to call this city my home makes me very proud. I cannot thank Mike and Meritta enough for showing us all of the wonderful beautiful places in NYC. I can now say that yes I am more cultured and I know more about how to get around my city and even the history behind many places. There is so much hard work that went into building this city. The architecture is immaculate and so is the railroad system. The detail of the hard work put into NYC is evident in the beauty of all that was constructed here. It took such a long time to build this city and I can only hope that it is continued to be preserved. The old charm that many of the buildings have is what makes NYC beautifully unique. There is no other city like NYC and after having taken this course I have only become fonder of the city I call my home.
Thank you so much Mike and Meritta for this amazing experience!
Mike and Meritta did an amazing job of showing us all around the city. I cannot wait to take back my fiancé back to the city and my family and show them all of the places that we have explored. One of my favorite places was the Museum of the Moving image. I will more than likely be going there some time in the near future. It is one of the most popular museums right now in NYC and I cannot wait to take him there to show him all around. Another adventure which we went on that I cannot wait to go back and do was walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. It was so much fun and I honestly never thought I would do it. I was so proud of myself for stepping outside of my comfort zone this semester. I was able to do things that I have never done before!
There is so so much that we saw in NYC and there is still so much more to be seen. It is amazing that I have lived here my entire life and I really don’t know too much about my own city, which to me is shameful. Thankfully, after having taken this course I really feel that I am more cultured and I know so much more about NYC. All of the different cultures that are within our city really struck me. Even though we are American there are so many different people who are not from America in our country. I enjoyed actually seeing this in The Barrio in Harlem and in China town. When you step into these different areas in the city you really feel like you have left NYC and went into another country. I was aware of the strong Chinese culture which existed in Chinatown, but completely unaware of The Barrio and how strong the Spanish community is there. This is just one of the many reasons that I love NYC because it’s a mix of so many different cultures all coming together for the American Dream.
What I loved the most about NYC was seeing all of the people and how hard they work. In every part of the city that we visited there was some one trying to live their dream. Whether it was working hard to make a better life for their family in a restaurant or sitting in the middle of central park playing an instrument because that’s what they love to do. NYC is a place where you can make your dreams a reality as long as you are willing to work hard enough for it. You can do what you love even if it isn’t the cookie cutter job that many people have in mind- such as becoming a doctor or working on Wall Street. That’s the beauty of this city because there is something for everyone to do here.
Being able to call this city my home makes me very proud. I cannot thank Mike and Meritta enough for showing us all of the wonderful beautiful places in NYC. I can now say that yes I am more cultured and I know more about how to get around my city and even the history behind many places. There is so much hard work that went into building this city. The architecture is immaculate and so is the railroad system. The detail of the hard work put into NYC is evident in the beauty of all that was constructed here. It took such a long time to build this city and I can only hope that it is continued to be preserved. The old charm that many of the buildings have is what makes NYC beautifully unique. There is no other city like NYC and after having taken this course I have only become fonder of the city I call my home.
Thank you so much Mike and Meritta for this amazing experience!