story1805.xml

story1805.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2002-09-06

I spent 6 weeks living in Greenwich village in June and July. I attended many events at the World Trade Center and the Winter Garden. I also applied for free artist space on the 91st floor at the WTC-Tower1.I used to sit on the lawn at Christopher St. and watch the sunset, awaiting the lights at the WTC to go on before I returned to my apartment at dusk. I was teaching art in Scranto when I heard the shocking reports. The c\hildren were not allowed to watch it, but I was glad that I did not see the horror as it was happening. When I went home, there was a letter in my mail box from The LMCC, who sponsered the artist grants at the WTC. I was horrified at this coincidence and relieved that I had not been accepted for the space. I was afraid to return to NYC, but jumped into the car on Sept. 22nd after the advice of a friend who said that there were volunteer opportunities. There were none for me, but I happened upon a place that has become to be known POINT THANK YOU at West St. and Christopher. I picked up a sign that said "thank you-heroes".Ireturned weekend after weekend and on holidays until May 30th. These New Yorkers were the most incredible grass roots volunteers; some going every night in all kinds of weather to encourage and support all the rescueand recovery workers, families and all New Yorkers through the almost 9 months. I feel like one of the fortunate people in the world to have lived so close that I could help in some small way and , in the process, bonded with a group that had the same goals and mindset.