Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Irish Bagpipes in the Hotel


Perhaps the best part of the day was simply witnessing "Ancient Order of Hiberians" playing in the hotel lobby immediately before heading out to the parade. This was an absolutely powerful experience. Just watch, and see for yourself.

The Roosevelt Hotel


Located on 45th St. and Madison Ave., the Roosevelt Hotel is beautiful! A true "classic," it offers an ample bar and spacious lobby, helpful staff, and reasonably sized rooms (though the bathrooms are small). Although the location is great(!), it doesn't come cheap; rates start at about $269/night.

Sunday, March 16, 2008

The Last Supper


Before Mom and Dad Figuereido left to go home, there was time for one more meal. We had to go to Paneantico.

Nathan's World Famous Hot Dogs at Coney Island


This was, literally, a grown man's dream come true.

The "Boston Three Party" Commercial

Anyone else been looking for this ESPN commercial since it first came out? Here they are: Scott van Pelt, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen. Enjoy.

Shoot the Freak


How could you possibly say no to someone who inquires, as you innocently walk past, "Hey, you wanna shoot me?" Well, I chose morals and values as reasons enough to pass on the offer, but you'll see that Jeff and his dad were less inclined to disappoint. In their defense, we are talking about a young person who wears hockey attire and gyrates his crotch in your direction while you point a weapon at him. You'll note "The Freak" just above Jeff's left shoulder in the background. If that still isn't enough to locate him, search for the human being with a jock strap on the outside of his clothing.

Opening Day at Coney Island


My wife believes that "everyday is opening day" at Coney Island, but it's not everyday you get a picture with the Cyclones Mascot, Sandy the Seagull.

Saturday, March 15, 2008

The Definition of Dessert:


Sweets, cappuccino, and family. Among the countless other things they do well, Paneantico (92nd St. and 3rd Ave. in Brooklyn) has impressive treats.

Mambo Italiano


Had an amazing dinner towards the end of the night at Bay Ridge's Mambo Italiano. Though there have been rumors it's going to go out of business soon, everything was great. Figgy was seranaded by "the talent," the Vodka Penne is beyond compare, and the company...well, there just aren't the words. Meanwhile, enjoy a great Dean Martin tune in lieu of an insufficient pic.

Central Park from the Top of the Rock




My Family Waiting for a Train

Top of the Rock


Closed for 19 years, this recently re-opened and is an incredible experience, both good and bad; the views are such that you can't help but think of your individual being within the larger framework, but there's something about seeing all that concrete. I strongly recommend this to anyone, but be ready for the $17.50 admission fee.

Brooklyn Bridge


Another tour of the Brooklyn Bridge, but this time with Mom and Dad Figueiredo, Jeff, and Kim. Perfect weather!
Also, here's a link to more information on the Brooklyn Bridge: http://www.greatbuildings.com/buildings/Brooklyn_Bridge.html

Big East Tournament Semifinals




After a long month (Feb. 15th-Mar. 14th), I was finally ready to settle down for a late winter nap. All of a sudden, I found out I'd won two tickets to the Big East Tournament Semifinal round. Kim and I went to see Georgetown v. West Virginia followed by Marquette v. Pittsburgh. Both games were great, as were the seats: Section 212, Row A, Seats 12 and 13.
If you're ever looking for an amazing sport, or even cultural, experience, consider a competitive collegiate athletic contest from good seats at an incredible venue!