Report by Daria, CA, USA
Daria with Frank Luz (Kristopher Gentian from When the Blue Bird Sings) on "The Bench" in Central Park
This was my second convention. After stumbling across the Los Angeles convention weeks before it actually happened, I believed it to be a one-time event. Yet days afterward I found myself contemplating the reality of attending another convention. I’m not sure what it was but I bought that airline ticket without a second thought.
Seven women I’d met on-line agreed to "sardine" ourselves for the weekend to save money and to share the laughter. Never having met in person, we agreed that wearing a tiara would be an easy way to recognize each other and that is where my story begins….
Thursday
I boarded the plane in Palm Springs which left 45 minutes late. Upon my arrival in Dallas to change planes, I’m informed I missed it "by that much" and am given the next flight, in the next terminal, in 30 minutes. After a mad dash to that gate, I’m on my way to The Big Apple for the first time. My 11:45 p.m. arrival hasn’t concerned my roommates coming to pick me up as they have been enjoying their Medieval Times dinner and show and drooling after a certain yellow knight.
My flight arrived without event but my luggage didn’t; so after filing a report, I attempt to find my ride instead. A woman casually wandering around LaGuardia airport at midnight wearing a tiara wasn’t noticed by anyone except a curious few. Fortunately the girls spotted me right away and, luggage or no, we were on our way back to New Jersey.
After several wrong turns, annoyingly desperate cabs, a good test of the brakes in Kat’s car and a quick drive over a bridge we end up in Hoboken. This error quickly remedied and we pull up in the Sheraton parking lot to find Moira on her way out. She tells us David Greenlee has arrived and has gone to Houlihan’s bar with Deb and Rosemarie. My roommates knew I had met him last year so I suggested we go to the bar. They nervously declined the offer, suggesting I must be too tired, but the opposite was true so to the bar we went.
I was able to introduce my brave escorts to David, and myself to Rosemarie. I was just so happy to be there and really know I was a part of it. It wasn’t real until that moment. Vicky’s reaction to meeting David was priceless. She took his hand but couldn’t speak a word!! I kept prodding her to talk but she was speechless (of course that didn’t last long!)
With the drinks and time difference and general gabbing that accompanies any sort of sleep-over, we didn’t turn out the lights until after 3:00 a.m. but we knew the opening ceremonies would come soon so in my borrowed nightgown we grabbed a precious few hours of sleep.
Friday
How 8:30 arrived so quickly I’ll never know but we were up and rotating through the bathroom and then down to breakfast and opening ceremonies in a flash. We blended into the line of friends waiting to enter the room and were greeted by Joann Baca, a gift bag, and a seduction bag (you know, the one to get us going to New Orleans.)
We secured the biggest empty table so we could all sit together and enjoy the unexpected. Although I had been to one con, I was lumped in with the virgins and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing their enthusiasm because it rekindled my own! When the ice breaker game required us to find people who fit a specific category, most people came to our table because we covered so many of those categories (who is a virgin?, who is from the north/south/east/west?, who is from another country?, who is from Canada?, etc.) I loved getting to know some of the other friends who I’d seen last year but wasn’t able to sit with during breakfast.
We played a game, answering questions about New Jersey trivia and opinion. Sadly, I’m not very New Jersey at all. But the game did manage to get us all laughing and it taught me a little about The Garden State. I can’t believe they don’t pump their own gas!
After looking through our new zine and gift bags, Winterrose had a mask making workshop. I was considering a trip into New York with Rosie, Jackie, Brooke and David but opted to stay at the hotel. I joined the mask workshop a little late but there was room for one more! Those darn feathers didn’t want to stick to the mask!! Everyone is so creative and the masks turned out beautifully.
While I worked, I was able to listen and laugh as Brenda and the Chesapeake Helpers Society of Beauty and the Beast played the "Dirty Minds" game. The suggestive definitions belied innocuous objects or places and the howls of laughter from around the room made my heart sing while I painted and glued. How Brenda managed to say those lines without a giggle is amazing!
After a quick drive to the village in Hoboken for some lunch, I came into the room just in time for Helene to win a prize at Beast Bingo. Knowing her luck would rub off on me, I sat next to her and won the next game! What fun we had laughing and talking through it all and breaking into a spontaneous version of "We Are The Champions"…poor Judy must have been tired from trying to call out over us!
Linda Barth made sure we all had an opportunity to learn how to write in calligraphy. I’ve decided it’s not meant for left handed people but I did have fun trying. She gave us samples and practice sheets and some nice paper to write on when we felt confident…I never got that far! Thanks for the pen Linda so I can practice!
After the calligraphy workshop, Deb had a presentation to introduce us to "Threads of Love", an organization established to help families with premature and newborn babies who don’t survive. The members make clothes and arrange for burial services for these babies who may otherwise be neglected. Thanks Deb for all you do!
Wiping away my tears, I joined Peggy’s Renaissance Line Dancing workshop. It was a workout! We had to move the tables and chairs to have room for dancing, but we all enjoyed learning the steps and dancing to the music and occasionally crashing into each other.
I left the workshop to join my roommates for an impromptu pizza party in Lyn and Gary’s room. David had promised to join the Virgins for some pizza from his favorite place in New York. After deciding what to order, David, Kat and Shannon left to pick up our order. Meanwhile the rest of us worked on re-writing the lyrics for our Talent Show song (Like A Virgin). Our food arrived with little time for us to prepare for the Masked Ball (and the Talent Show) so we ate quickly then made a mad dash for our room to get ready.
My luggage still had not yet arrived. My cloak and clothes were driving around New Jersey without me. Roommates to the rescue!!
Zanna (who I teased for having two of everything) had a second gown for the Ball! She came prepared for any eventuality and I thank her from the bottom of my heart. Without her I wouldn’t have been able to participate as much as I did!!! I loved seeing everyone’s costume and taking pictures of them! We’re a good looking group! And with Peggy’s expert instruction we looked darn good dancing too!
The Talent Show was a smorgasbord of entertainment…songs, poems, skits, dancing, the works! Everyone has something to offer and from the smiles on everyone’s face, no one was disappointed. After lots of pictures and chatter and laughter we changed clothes once again for the Slumber Party!
Rosemarie had arranged for us to do a Round Robin reading of "Of Love and Life", so armed with milk and cookies we began to read. Of the 23 sections we got as far as #9 before the hotel threw us out (claiming they had to prepare the room for the next day). My roommates and I retreated to our room and proceeded to laugh our way into Saturday.
I had to sleep fast to be sure I was ready for my workshop at 9:00!
Saturday
How did that sun get up so soon? We quickly dressed and joined the others for breakfast.
My workshop in American Sign Language was fun. Teaching is very dynamic and with such eager students I was able to leave any anxiety I felt at the door! My only regret was that I didn’t have enough handouts. Everyone asked thoughtful, interesting questions and we all laughed when some of the answers were a little…bold.
David came next and spoke to the group. He is so comfortable talking with everyone. He’s able to share stories, opinions and advice with humor and warmth. Everyone enjoyed hearing him speak and answer their questions. What a friend he’s been to all of us.
We had a break for lunch and off I went with Zanna and Kat in search of a Staples. I wanted to make more copies for those who didn’t get one during my workshop. (Thank you to everyone for being so patient about it too!) For the second time I missed Kazoo U…next time for sure I will be there!!
We raced back to the hotel, anxious not to be late for the panel with Frank Luz, but we arrived as Rosemarie was introducing him. In the beginning, Frank seemed a little uncomfortable being there but as he spoke his comfort level rose exponentially. He was welcomed by Sheila as a Con Virgin and afterward I think he enjoyed telling us about his experiences as an actor. His ability to entertain with anecdotes kept every person glued to their seat for the entire time he spoke. He is very genuine, articulate and humorous.
Rosemarie needed to interrupt him to begin the autograph and photo sessions. David and Frank took time to speak with each person who waited in line, asking them questions or chatting in general about anything. I appreciated them asking me questions too! They didn’t seem overwhelmed by all those who waited patiently to talk with them and take their pictures.
My luggage had arrived at last and I was able to change into my own clothes for the Banquet. Everyone looked resplendent as we met in the lobby to take pictures and chat. The Winterfest candles were passed out while we mingled and when the doors were opened, it was a feast for the eyes. Chan and friends had made beautiful castle centerpieces and each place setting had a Sandy Tew book and a mint/candy favor. The excitement level began to rise and then at last, David read the Winterfest poem and we lit our candles around the room. It’s a lovely, touching moment for us to share.
I had the vegetarian meal (pasta) and it was delicious. Everyone’s meal looked terrific and the conversations were lively and numerous! As the meal was cleared and dessert served, the New Jersey Renaissance Players entertained us with their version of "Beauty and the Beast." When their tale was told, we cleared the room to prepare for the auction. There was a certain level of excitement as people returned to the large room, spying a treasure on display and hoping to win it at auction. The Beast became the moderator for the auction and I ended up talking with Frank about politics! It was too loud in the room so we adjourned to the lobby to be joined by friends there. We spoke about anything and everything and the laughs continued in the lobby while the auction continued in the room.
Sheila emerged with the triumphant glow of those in the auction room. She won the bid for the Kristopher Gentian card Frank had generously given for the auction. Sheila was bidding for JoAnn Baca (who was a fabulous “Vanna”). JoAnn really wanted Sandy Tew to have it. After giving the card to Sandy (who was slightly dazed from learning her daughter had recently gone into labor), I took pictures of Sandy and Frank recreating the scene, handing her the card. The auction came to an end at last and everyone began to emerge from the room with treasures or smiles and the warmth of friendship.
My roommates suggested watching the Bluebird episode so off to our room we went but the laughter and conversation – and chocolate tossing – prevented us from seeing the episode without multiple re-starts. It turned into a 3 hour episode! We were determined to make the most of our short time together.
Sunday
We had a bit of a sleep-in but we were sure to be downstairs in time for brunch. The room had been given some extra touches of atmosphere thanks to Sally and Liz Perkins. Our tables had charming place settings of small park benches with tiny books on them. Pictures of Central Park, branches and flowers adorned each table. Our buffet brunch was delicious. We watched a video about the creation and restoration of Central Park and Frank described our schedule for Monday’s tour. It was going to be a FULL day!
Judy and Karen had another round of Beast Bingo and afterward Karen had a rubber stamping workshop. The art from the Dealer’s room was brought in for the final auction and I believe Deb really has found her calling! It must be her DNA! All the art and treasures were sold and then they raffled the lovely glass block centerpieces we saw on Friday. I was so excited to have won it but I was worried about carrying it back to California.
Rosemarie and Deb closed this year’s Convention with hope and promises for the New Orleans Convention and then the candle was passed. It’s difficult not to feel moved by the conviction of everyone in that room! A certain sadness is felt, knowing the excitement and anticipation of the convention is over, but there wasn’t time to feel sad or melancholy because we had to get ready to go see Hellboy II!
Our carpools arranged in the lobby and off we drove to the theater. I was surprised to learn you could eat actual food in the theater, not just candy and popcorn! The "civilians" in the audience were not prepared for the ambush of fans that had arrived and it was a lot of fun to watch the movie and shout out with so many friends! The movie was a little too silly for my taste (I prefer the original Hellboy) but it made everyone laugh and cheer.
After returning to the hotel, I spent the next few hours talking with friends in the lobby. Clearly we didn’t want the convention to end. It was difficult knowing on Monday and Tuesday we would all be going our separate ways so we had to make the most of every moment.
Monday
We were all up early and ready for the tour! The weather was a little dodgy but I was confident the clouds would give way to a fantastic day. We boarded the bus in the parking lot and took our box lunches to stow until lunch time. Our driver Al went through the Lincoln Tunnel where we were told to look for the sign that said New Jersey/New York. We weren’t told the letters were 3 feet high! When we emerged in Manhattan, Al picked up Frank and our first stop was a souvenir shop.
With our treasures in hand (and a new suitcase for me to bring my treasures back to California) we walked three or four blocks to the Empire State Building. We wandered through the security checks in small groups and I enjoyed walking with Helene and hearing her talk so fondly about New York. Without much fanfare we boarded the elevators and ascended to the 80th floor whereupon we wandered through another snake line to more elevators which would deliver us to the 86th floor and the observation deck. Although the clouds made the view a little murky, it was a great view! To the west we could see our hotel in New Jersey, to the north we could see Central Park, the Statue of Liberty and the former location of the Twin Towers. No one told me what to look for on the east and south side of the observation deck so I just enjoyed the view and helped people take pictures. Frank told us the building was erected during the boon years of the art deco style but the only place I saw evidence of that was in the restroom.
Two quick elevator rides down, a sweep through the gift shop and down the escalator to head back to the bus. Vicky, Amber and I waited with Frank while he made sure everyone was out. On our way back to the bus, Amber, Vicky and I stopped to experience a "real" New York hot dog!
From the Empire State Building we wound our way through Manhatten to arrive at Grand Central Terminal. Mere blocks from the Chrysler Building we exited the bus with lunch in hand to walk down the street, take pictures and finally enter the building at Grand Central. Frank did a wonderful job explaining the history of the building and the Beaux-Arts architectural style. The inside was cavernous! We enjoyed learning about the murals on the ceiling, the renovation and restoration project and the architecture. Our group moved downstairs to eat, but before that Frank introduced us to the Whispering Chamber. There is a connector passageway that was built solely with brick and mortar and is so perfectly built, sound can travel through it. Lyn was "put in the corner" and Frank spoke to her from the opposite corner. Lyn said it was scary how perfectly she could hear him. I tried it with Mini and it was amazing!
After a quick lunch, more photos and more information about this historic place, we boarded our bus to visit more historic sites. We parked near Rockefeller Plaza which is two blocks from St. Patrick’s Cathedral. I enjoyed the peace, serenity and architecture there, lighting a candle and taking a few photos.
Atlas and Prometheus were next on the agenda and then back on the bus to Central Park.
(New York seems to be in a constant state of renovation – there was scaffolding at the Cathedral and the Empire State Building, construction on the sidewalks, in Times Square, across from the Natural History Museum, lumber on the streets, caution flags and sawhorses everywhere!)
Entering Central Park was like stepping out of the City! Tavern on the Green is a charming restaurant just inside the park and it was the gateway to a lovely walk through the park. Passing the Sheep Meadow we went to the carousel. Some had a ride on it while others took photos or sat on the benches to enjoy the respite. Our walk continued to the Mall and the band shell. Even though it was Monday, many people were in the park enjoying the fresh air too!
I wandered away from the group and came upon a street that overlooks the Angel of the Waters fountain (also called the Bethesda fountain). The stairs down to the fountain were perfect for taking pictures and beyond the fountain some brave souls awkwardly rowed boats in the lake. The Boat House restaurant at one end of the lake and the Bow Bridge at the other made a lovely view from the fountain.
After taking a group picture in front of the fountain we went to the Bow Bridge, then to Cherry Hill (formerly a horse trough), Strawberry Fields (named for John Lennon) and the Imagine mosaic (with tiles from 15th century Pompeii). Frank explained the history and significance of each landmark.
We exited the park near the Lexington and Dakota buildings on 72nd Street. That was where Catherine appears to walk down the street in the opening credits (but there is no grate at that corner). Amber, Vicky, Mini, Janet and I ran up to the Dakota building to have some pictures taken, then Al drove us to 82nd Street near the Natural History Museum so we could (at last!) see "our" bench.
After a lovely stroll through winding paths we arrived at the Delacorte Theater and there was our bench. There was a flurry of activity and laughter while pictures were taken and then a small band of us continued up the stairs, through a serene open space sheltered by trees, to Belvedere Castle. I wandered a little further away after spotting a cottage, only to find the Marionette Theater, also called the Swedish Cottage.
Back aboard the bus, we battle through Manhattan once again to see St. Vincent’s Hospital (known affectionately to locals as the Trauma and Gunshot Hospital). I didn’t realize there was an older entrance until I saw the pictures and I’m sorry I missed it.
On our way to Times Square we dropped off Pat and her husband who were going to see Bon Jovi but the rest of us arrived at Mars 2112 for an other-worldly dining experience. Wandering through the tunnels (of Mars) was great. The restaurant wasn’t my "cup of tea" but it was fun being with friends. Knowing this was my last night with them for at least a year made me savor every moment.
Although it was beyond his contract time, Al agreed to stay while Frank took a group of us to Times Square. We saw where they drop the ball on New Years, the Stock Market and many of the landmarks people recognize the world over. It was loud, colorful, crowded, under construction, and in motion but I was glad to have experienced it.
I boarded the bus with so many happy memories of such a full day. We dropped off Frank near his home and Al brought us back to New Jersey. It was a perfect end to a lovely day.
A few more hours chatting in the lobby then up to the room to pack. That extra suitcase came in handy for the all the souvenirs and mementos from the weekend but maneuvering through the airport would be a struggle. No matter. The memories of the Convention weekend and the friends I’ve made would be worth the struggle.
Kat and Zanna braved the early morning traffic to drop me off at LaGuardia. (Maps are of no use in New York). At last I could sleep on the flight home. I missed my flight in Dallas again but I arrived home with both pieces of luggage and a lifetime of happy memories.
Thank you to Rosemarie and Deb for planning and executing such an ambitious week of activities with grace and patience.
Thank you to my roommates for the clothes, the laughter, the drinks, the gifts, and the memories.
And most of all, thank you to all of you, the fans, who have kept the dream alive.
