My Second Blackout in New York

[andyfox]

As a kid, I as walking home from religious school when the lights went out in 1964. I remember walking in to a candy store and asking what happened; the response: "I'm just a candy store owner, what the hell do I know?"

Fast forward 39 years. On a mini-vacation in New York, out go the lights again. This time, thoughts of foul play crossed everyone's mind. I was on the 34th floor of the Essex House; down 34 floors I went to get my wife and son, weho were strolling 5th Avenue; they arrived, somewhat shaken, in the lobby a few minutes after I did.

The hotel staff was wonderful, providing water, flashlights, food and whatever help they could. A diabetic man was stuck in the elevator bbetween floors; elderly, and unable to speak much English, it took quite a while for them to get him out; I understand he is OK after spending time at the hospital for observation. Many citizens were at the street corners helping to direct traffic. The sense of togetherness and comraderie was palpable.

We trekked back up the 34 floors and dined on crackers and nectarines. We prepared as best we could for the coming darkness. The view out our window of the shadowed city was at once beautiful and terrifying. We fell asleep for a few hours, and were fortunate to be able to get a flight out of Newark on Friday evening. Quite an experience.

Hope all 2+2ers who were caught in the blackout are none the worse for the wear.