Two Cities, Two Governors
On 5th Avenue
We touched down at JFK Airport in New York late on Friday afternoon and got to our hotel, in the Times Square area, a few hours later. We ordered the most expensive cheeseburgers and cokes ever from room service and hit the streets to explore.
At FAO Schwartz
Saturday morning my mom dragged me down 5th Avenue to go to FAO Schwartz to buy my little sister a birthday present. We met up with Mike Huckabee (the Governor) and his staff over at the Fox studios. Lets just say that my mom was happier than I was about the hair and makeup job! The interview was short and sweet. Mike Huckabee is a great guy - super laid back for someone as powerful as he is. Afterwards, we went upstairs to meet Geraldo Rivera, who was working in his office. He is a big time sailor and we talked about my trip and other boating/adventuring stuff.
Me, Mom and Mike Huckabee
So after the Huckabee Show, my mom grabbed a cab to the Metroplitan Museum of Art and I met a friend from Mauritius and ran around Central Park and China Town. We weren't due to fly out until Sunday late so my mom and I had another day to explore NY - and that we did.
Central Park
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
We saw the big green lady, Canal Street - the main road of NY's China Town. I got this gangster hat, as my mom calls it, and my mom got a watch. We also became masters of subway travel. It's really amazing how fast you can get around, actually faster than driving with all the traffic lights.
The flight back was long - 6 1/2 hours during which the plane went through a lightning storm. We landed, safe and tired at 12am and I went down to the marina and spent the night as I had to get up at 5 to grab a shower and catch a town car to the airport for a flight to Sacramento to meet the Governator. Well, I set the alarm and went to sleep. I woke up at 6 to my cell phone ringing. I answered it and my dad told me that the car was waiting for me.
I jumped out of bed, grabbed my collared shirt and my gangster hat to cover up my messy hair and ran up to the parking lot - pulling on my shirt while running. I got to the airport and the car driver relieved me of my last 40 dollars! Thankfully, I managed to get to the flight on time and had a short flight.
When I made it to Sacramento I met up with a couple of the governor's assistants and we went over to the airport and chilled with some of Arnold's bodyguards while we waited for his jet to pull in. It finally did and he came out toking a cigar - classic Schwarzenegger!
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
We rode in a motorcade all the way to the capitol building. We talked about my trip and he was a really cool guy. We made it to the Capitol building and he presented me with a plaque and jacket and I gave a speech to his office staff.
One of Schwarzenegger's assistants, Ben, took me around the Capitol for a tour and well let's just say I no longer need to take California History. But ya, had an awesome time and caught an hour flight back to Cali and now I think I'm gonna get some sleep....
Goodnight everyone!
posted by Zac at
10:46 PM
42 Comments:
Okay, now has enough time passed by for it to have really sunk in as to what a spectacular feat you accoumpished?
You are indeed beginning to live the life of a roll model and celeb!
Zac, thanks for taking the time to write such a great blow by blow account of your action packed weekend! Congratulations are once again in order!
Stay grounded, get plenty of rest and good nutrition, and then go for it with gusto, your charm, personality and knowledge are going to take you far!
Cheers - J.
P.S. It seems you need more than one alarm clock! :)
Very cool that you got to meet the Governator!
Could you please share what it says on the plaque?
hehehe .. Zac's not shy, that's for sure LOL!
Nice hat. :-))
Big Arnie even twittered about your meet:
http://twitpic.com/e9h0c
It sounds like the whirlwind tour, but it's good you had a chance to see some of NYC. And 2 governors in 2 days, not bad...I can identify with sleeping through the alarm clock, odd how that won't wake me, but the cell will.
Another adventure of a different type! Keep it up.
I very much enjoyed the stories about the Two Cities. I thought it was Baby Ben's birthday, but you bought a present for your sister's birthday? I know you have a big family, so maybe the birthdays are close together.
Thanks for still keeping in touch!
From Iowa
Wow, Zac -- what a great long weekend! I love that you & your mom got to explore NYC together -- after a year apart, I'm sure some good mom & son time was very welcome... You and your family well deserve all the excitement and new experiences that have come your way -- I still marvel at what you accomplished, making your way solo around this beautiful Earth. Looking forward to your next update and to documentary Part 1 (any update on when that will be shipping out?)
Peace, Your Oklahoma Well-Wisher
That's quite a change! After hoping for 150 miles per day, you covered over 5000 in a weekend! Is that how much faster progress is when Mom helps? ;-)
Still praying Numbers 6:24-26
Mouse in Whittier
www.myspace.com/mouseonamotorcycle
Buy "Death and Coffee" here!
Zac,
Loose the hair dude, it was cute while sailing around the globe but now you are staring to look more like a NYC homeless person!
Zac,
Wow, what a whirl wind you've had. The interview with Huckabee was great but I agree with a previous blogger, "he didn't let you talk enough".
It's great that you got to meet up with the "Governator" too.
Great picture with you and Arnold. Love the ganster hat!
Mona
Tucson, AZ
Zac,
Thanks once again for the update. So happy you and your mom had a fantastic trip to NYC. I love that city too. Great photos of you and the Govs. Congratulations on all your fabulous accomplishments. Keep on blogging.
Atlanta Mom
Hi Zac,
I really enjoyed all the details of your big weekend. I can't believe how much of NYC you covered in less than 48 hours! And then booking it up to Sacto the next day. Amazing. Guess your adventure at sea actually prepared you pretty well for life on land (i.e., seeing new places, meeting new people, thinking on your feet, lack of sleep, etc.)
Loved all the photos of your 2 trips. That was pretty cool that you got to meet Mike H., Geraldo, and Arnold. Zac you looked great and Marianne, you looked gorgeous and happy as always!
(Coincidentally, the only 2 places my family and I have traveled to this year are New York City and Sacramento.)
What's up next Zac? Are there any more trips or interviews coming up? Oh, and I've been wondering if you've had a chance to start driving practice and if you're anxious to get your license since I'll bet most or all of your friends already have theirs.
Have a great day and get some well-deserved rest. You'll need it before the next town car comes to pick you up!
--Sue McGah
Laguna Niguel
Living on the edge...that's our Zac!
Lol...love the alarm story and putting your shirt on while running for the taxi!!
Fun times eh.
UK friend
Zac--Ask your publicist if he/she can arrange some meetings with a Democrat or two........
Arnold looks like he could also do with a hat that morning. And definitely a few more hours sleep :-)
Zac-
Damn Cab Drivers.....from LAX to Marina del Rey should only cost $18, but I got nabbed for $40 too. From there on out, it was the LA bus....no more getting ripped off.
So, how did your brother and sister do in the regatta at Westlake?
Kodiak Mike
hey zac--- your NYC trip (albeit brief) sounds like it was very fun.
even with the sad state of affairs that CA is in, i think the Governor should have sent a State car to pick you up and then take you to santa monica airport so you could fly up with him, spend the day and fly home with him at the end of the day.
keep us informed about your activities...we are so happy for you.
john baker/w hollywood, ca/USofA
jbaker1226@aol.com
I enjoyed everything you shared about the trip to NYC, words and pictures, but really got goosebumps seeing Zac and Mom with Lady Liberty in the background.
Arnold is a cool guy, isn't he? He has succeeded in one field after another: as bodybuilder, then businessman, then actor and now Governator... which is the toughest job. But his path is something for you to look at and think about, Zac. Maybe you two will stay in touch?
I am thrilled that the word is getting out about your stupendous achievement and the honors are rolling in.
How Cool! Great interview on Huckabee
oh oh .. what has Zac started
be aware there's also a 13 year old expecting to depart next month. Long route though with stops :-)
http://www.dutchnews.nl/news/archives/2009/08/13yearold_plans_to_sail_round.php
Abby Sunderland eyes nonstop solo circumnavigation
By BERNIE WILSON (AP) – 1 hour ago
The sailing Sunderlands are at it again.
Abigail Sunderland wants to one-up older brother Zac when she sets sail in November in a quest to become the youngest person to sail around the world alone.
Unlike Zac, she plans to do it nonstop.
Abby, as he family calls her, turns 16 on Oct. 19. She wants to leave Marina del Rey in the Los Angeles area in early November.
Her father, Laurence, said Tuesday that the family, which lives in Thousand Oaks, Calif., is negotiating with potential sponsors to help cover the $350,000 cost of the adventure.
On July 16, 17-year-old Zac Sunderland became the youngest person to sail around the world alone when he pulled into Marina del Rey.
Copyright © 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
Hey Zac.
you should of brought a hat for Arnie. The picture would of been a classic for future fund raisers.
Later on, Rick.
rickbauer@softcom.net
If "role model" is something you'd strive for you might consider the "gangster" hat with the long flowing locks could be perceived as "clown like".
Better article:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hJcJ5GoF39nWH7yGuCw5SC64VYAAD9A5J71G0
Love the idea!! Open 40, non-stop via the capes. Go for it. 6 months! Make sure the thing is brand new parts from top to bottom.
KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY :-))
All I can say is that you have to find a focus. You have already been pulled too many ways - like a puppet (for whom, I am not saying). You are way too young to be used in this way. Get back to school soon and focus on your real future. I think we all realize that you have to raise money to pay off this adventure but your education should definitely come first.
School has started.
Get to it - just do it.
Great! Another potential Sunderland sailing trip around the world. Hope Abby can secure that Open 40 and some funding!
Zac, can't believe you were hanging out at 1211 Avenue of the Americas. I've been there several times myself over the last ten years. Hate the Fox security in the lobby; always wished they'd give me a badge to swipe to get to the elevator bank. Seen Geraldo there too! I usually left the building in one of the limos out front on my way to LaGuardia.
Wow, as you know better than anyone, the world is a really small place.
Neo
Zac:
Great story of covering NYC. The first time I visited that city, it was only for 2 days. Comparing it to the few American cities which I'd experienced, I thought NYC was a big dirty abomination!!
After having spend some time traveling in Europe, the Mid-East, and Asia, I had the opportunity to visit NYC again but for a week. I resisted strongly, but it was business and necessary.
I don't think New York City had changed as much as I had, but it was a different place seen through different eyes. NYC is not only an American city, it's a bona fide International City! It was an entirely different experience this time. Loved the color, hustle and bustle and the 'street food'. I know what you mean about those cheeseburgers from room service. Where I am now, you could buy a whole cow for that price!
Enjoy the experiences you are having and keep us posted on the "Post-voyage".
The Croaker
Hi Zac,
Cheeseburgers via room service, LOL! My husband and I have fond memories of room service cheeseburgers—we were, and still are, definitely not used to shelling out that kind of money. Don’t know whether to laugh or cry at such prices.
Did your expensive supper also come with silverware (silver, not stainless), fine china, and a tablecloth, like ours did?
Karen
Homeschool Mom Emeritus
Zac,
What a whirlwind you've been caught up in!
The trip to New York was great and the pics indicated such. It's too bad you couldn't have stayed longer. Did you go to Ground Zero and the Empire State Building?
And to top it all off, you had to go on another excursion when you got back. I can understand why you overslept!
I guess you are not playing football this fall...that's too bad for your opposition! LOL!
Don't you think you need to slow down now, step back, read some scripture, pray and as Coach K says, "focus" on long and short term goals?
I can't wait to see your documentary and read your book!
God Bless you and your family!
George Cox
Wilmington, NC
www.xanga.com/ncstatefootball
Hi Zac!
Looks like you and your mum had a big time! It was nice to see photos of the two of you together, after more than a year apart I bet you both enjoyed it!
What's next?? LOL!!!
Blessings
Anita
Waterloo, NY
Captain SV Wombat
Well done Zac!! Adventures on land can be almost as good as adventures at sea. Almost. Great pics. When are you going to the White House to meet our president? If you do be sure and wear the hat. That is a classic. I'm tempted to get one and walk around the docks with it on. Only real sailors would recognize it and understand where I got the idea. Sooner or later someone would yell over to me and ask, " Hey where did you get the Zac hat?"
Rusty
Zac ---I have been in a great debate with myself as to whether or not I should write this. I have decided that I must.
I am very aware of your age. Likewise, I am very aware of the current style and manner that young people like to dress and 'carry' themselves. However, I was shocked that you chose to wear and appear the way you did for your meeting with our Governor. Fact is, I don't even care for the man, however, he IS the Governor of the Great State of California and I believe it would have been more respectful if you had perhaps dressed 'up' just a bit. A pair of khakis, a dress shirt (maybe even a sportcoat). And....my dear Zac it is time for a haircut. You can still have long hair and be young and hip but....you need a cut and style. I hope you take this as constructive. There is no need for you to become someone that you aren't, however, be aware that your picture is being flashed across the globe and whether one likes it or not, the way one dresses and looks speaks volumes for who the person is and the respect that he wishes to earn.
I know some will say that you could wear a clown suit and that should not take away from your accomplishment.
If you think I am full of crap, fine.
Tanner Ramsgate
Tiburon, CA
Thanks for sharing your words and pictures of the recent trips. It's great to know people are actually learning what a great accomplishment you completed last month.
I loved the hat you were wearing while taking the picture with Arnold. I have a few of those gangster type Italian hats and always receive compliments on them.
Let us know what's coming up next.
Take Care,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California
Hey Zac,
Well i just got back from my quick trip back home to MDR and had the wonderful fortune to be able to locate Intrepid. She sure did look to be in great shape considering she just finished a trip around the world!! I was hoping to congratulate you and welcome you home but you had the wonderful opportunity to travel to NY and experience another exciting city. So glad to hear you and your Mom had fun there in the city, it's a city full of life to be sure. Anyways, just wanted to let you know that just being able to see Intrepid for myself was definately a highlight of my trip!!
Enjoy all the opportunities that come your way, stay grounded and all the best to you!!
Take care
Terri
Gloucester, VA
@Tanner Ramsgate - Re: "If you think I am full of crap, fine." Plus comments about Zac's dress and hair style.
I suspect that Zac is too refined to even 'think' of you being 'full of crap'. It's not the way he was raised.
I would not walk up to a man who has done what Zac has done this past year and dare to comment about his manner nor his looks. I think those kind of comments are best handled by Zac's parents and, judging by the looks of them, and by what we've read in this blog for so long, I think Zac is schooled well enough.
So, I guess it's only I who think you may be 'full of crap'.
ZAc, with that hat and that coat, well, we could put you in a rock band!!
On a lighter note, I flew over Emerald Bay this morning and thought about (a) my time there 40 years ago, and (b) where you dropped anchor earlier this year.
Did I missed Abby's blog?? Is the 40 the right boat for her??
Thinking about how many kids there are in the Sunderland clan - it looks like we have our daily dose of blogs for years to come LOL
Long-time reader, first-time commenter here.
Tanner and the anonymous person who commented on Zac's gangster hat and "flowing locks" need to relax.
Zac is SEVENTEEN years old, for God's sake. He's doing what a seventeen-year-old does.
If you're aghast at Zac's hair, you are getting old. Maybe not old chronologically, but old of mind.
Kevin
Thank you, Kevin. I agree.
Blessings -
Marie
WA St.
Hi all.
For those who have not found Abby's blog yet here is a link.
http://soloround.blogspot.com/2009/08/developing-plans.html?showComment=1251118927621#c8829969898916750140
Now we all can move over and start the Abby pack LOL
Have a nice week
Axel
With that outfit, all I can say is get out of the house and your homeschoolin' and see how the average person presents themself. THAT is not it. If you want to be a gangsta - be a gangsta - don't be an impersonataaaaa (or you will look foolish)
You are an idiot! Why waste such a great opportunity! You do no represent our generation!
Oh my God - the Sunderlands have just welcomed a child home from a trip around the world on a sailboat alone and they are planning to send another?
Where is child protection?
These kids are home schooled and have no sense of reality (look at the photos of Zac. He thinks he is so "ghetto" but he is a cartoon of what "ghetto" is. I am mean, really, experience real life in a big city before you claim to know it).
Don't send another child out to sea.
I see there is a filter on this blog and I doubt you will post this. If you do, I trust that all of the other supporters will be able to post twice as much.
Don't really know what the purpose of this blog is supposed to be
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