May 22 Brunch and Alumni Event

For some the day started early since the teammates were so excited to see the city. After a peaceful walk/bike around the city, the team assembled again at the Church of Saint Paul of the Apostle by 11 AM. At that time, the Father Gilbert introduced the team to the congregation. Divya gave a short speech about the organization, which was followed by a nice brunch provided by the church. Our team enjoyed the food as well as the company. We were also fortunate to have a chance to conduct several interviews for our Portraits Project. The team would like to extend our gratitude to the Church of Saint Paul of the Apostle for all of the arrangements they made, there could not have been a better welcome to the Big Apple!After a short break of sightseeing, the team said goodbye to the church and moved to the second stayover, Columbus Circle Hostel, where the team was surprised to find clean beds and showers. Later in the evening, the New York U of I Alumni Club invited the team to a performance by University of Illinois' a cappella group, the Other Guys, at a comedy club in the city. We shared a great time with the alumni, and also met a previous rider, Steve Odon, who is a cancer survivor. With the encouragement from the alumni, the team finished the long day with cheer and excitement for the long journey ahead.