Yesterday was day two of Rick's Roadshow in New York. I'm staying at one of my favorite hotels in the city, The Waldorf=Astoria. It's a legendary grand hotel that was built over 100 years ago, and has been a center of activity for the social elite throughout its history. The Waldorf is a registered historic landmark; and a fine example of American Art Deco style. It recently had a $500 million renovation to refresh the property, yet it still has many of its original interior designs and works of art. It is a fabulous place to stay in New York and is my home away from home.
The Waldorf=Astoria. above left: The lobby, & above right: The Park Avenue entrance foyer.
The Show Dogs of The Year Awards
Last night I attended the 53rd Annual Show Dogs of the Year Awards, held at the Grand Hyatt hotel on Park Avenue at Grand Central. The event celebrates the accomplishments of the show dog community, and is the "Academy Awards" for the top show dog handlers, owners and trainers. It coincides with the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, which is why I am in New York for the next few days. Many of the handlers I met will be among the winners for the various dog groups competing at the Westminster event.
above: It was a night of glamor, glory, and celebration.
above: A fine example of a top dog, Vikki, a toy Poodle who has won 67 Best in Show competitions. Her handler Kaz Hosaka was recognized as the top handler last night.
above: Me with friend Candy, an executive with Purina Pro Plan brand dog food, who is a major underwriter of the awards dinner. Candy is proud of telling me that 79 of the top 100 show dogs feed her brand of Pro Plan dog food, which is quite amazing. above right: An ice sculpture of the "Winkie" Award Statuette greeted attendees at the cocktail reception before dinner.
above: The Awards dinner was formal, and was quite elegant.
My Favorite Course: The Desserts
above left: some kind of delicious custard with caramel and apple sauce, topped with a chocolate dog. above right: trays of delectable sweets were passed along the table...
The After Party: The Bubble Lounge
above: we went to a place called The Bubble Lounge which was a hip place with comfy sofas and a fantastic champagne and wine list.
above: relaxing at The Bubble Lounge with a glass of champagne
above: a night of frivality and laughs...in no time we were dancing and having a great time into the wee hours. It was a fun evening in New York.
-Rick Rockhill
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