65. Attend 5 JMU events: speakers, concerts, art exhibits, etc. (3/5)

I really should have posted this last month, but oh well!  On September 5, Diana and I attended "Sites of Manhattan," a themed dinner planned by the Hospitality and Tourism Management majors.  The Festival Ballroom was transformed!  Our table was located at 14th and 5th. 

Here's the hosts' description:
We are bringing New York City to James Madison University on September 5, 2009 at 6:30pm. You will get to enjoy your own personal tour as you see the "Sites of Manhattan." Come take a stroll through Central Park as you enjoy upbeat music from the jazz trio street performers, and a variety of delicious New York favorites for you to try. Then be amazed by all the colors and sites that Manhattan has to offer. You will enjoy an exquisite four course meal while being entertained by some of New York’s most famous performers such as a JMU’s own Billy Joel, Blue Man Group, and a hip Broadway Musical. This will be a night to remember as you go on a tour to see the "Sites of Manhattan".

The food was delicious!  We started with a Central Park Summer Soup which was chilled tomato soup with grilled corn, red onion, and avocado.  I had never had chilled soup before, but this was tasty!  Then we had a Big Apple Salad followed by the main course, Medallions of New York Strip Steak.  SO good!  It was served with basil mashed potatoes and sauteed summer vegetables.  For dessert, we had Manhattan Chocolate Cheesecake which was also wonderful.

 
Our table was conveniently located in front of the Brooklyn Bridge.  During dinner we saw several performances.  I especially enjoyed hearing "Defying Gravity" from Wicked.  JMU's own Billy Joel also sang beautifully.  This Statue of Liberty sculpture was amazing!