My Day at the Oculus Pink Saturday

This week's Pink Saturday post takes us to the Grand Opening of the Oculus Shopping Center at the World Trade Center. I was very fortunate to receive an invitation to attend the Grand Opening on Tuesday. The shopping center -- it seems too elegant to simply be a shopping center -- is part of the transportation complex at the World Trade Center. Before September 11 the shopping area under the Trade Center was my mall. I worked literally down the street and often stopped in on my way home to run an errand. In the years since September 11 Lower Manhattan has become a thriving residential area and the new shopping center reflects both the greatly increased population living downtown and the many people working in the area. 





The grand opening was an amazing event. We got a gift bag, there were food tastings -- lobster roll, anyone? -- and terrific entertainment. The entertainer of the day was John Legend, who appeared in the evening. I was exhausted by the time he came on, but I enjoyed reading about his performance. 

 

 

I did enjoy -- very much! -- a performance by the wildly talented cast of the Broadway musical, School of Rock. It's a fabulous space for music and I'm looking forward to other concerts that will take place there.

I'm still amazed, and moved, and somewhat teary to see the signage at the Oculus.  Next month it will be fifteen years since that September day and despite years when it seemed nothing would rise from the site, Lower Manhattan is being rebuilt. The day is seared in my memory and despite my happiness at seeing the new buildings I remember those who will never get to see them and enjoy what I am so fortunate to experience. As always, #neverforget.
 

The rebuilding from a different perspective. One World Trade Center is on the left. 

I hope you've enjoyed our visit to Lower Manhattan. As always, thanks for visiting Buttercupland and take good care.