Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Hobnobbing with New Yorkers...

I've been very fortunate throughout my life to have interesting opportunities come my way through my work, things that I could never afford to do on my own. Several years ago, I chaperoned a travel program on a week-long cruise of the Great Lakes. I've met former Secretary of State Shultz, worked with Nobel prize winners, and have been taken on a private tour of a linear accelerator.

Tonight goes up there as one of the highlights, as I flew down to New York with two colleagues and attended the annual Alzheimer's Association Rita Hayworth Gala at the spectacular Waldorf-Astoria. Amazing event for a wonderful cause. The gala is chaired by Princess Yasmin Aga Kahn, daughter of the late actress Rita Hayworth who battled Alzheimer's Disease in an era when little was known about it. Watching the Princess speak was a special delight -- she is clearly passionate about this cause, yet very uncomfortable in the spotlight. There was something so honest and humble about her.

Tremendous people-watching to be had. Celebrities, gorgeous evening gowns, breathtaking jewels. I only wish I had the nerve to whip my camera out and take pictures to share, but I thought it might be a tad improper!

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