Cash Flows From Waterfalls

The 2008 exhibit, “Waterfalls” overflowed city coffers with $68.6 million in economic activity … $13.4 million over estimates. Approximately 79,200 additional tourists visited New York City to see the East River’s water pouring forth from designer Olafur Eliasson’s four man-made structures. Circle Line reported water tour sales were up 213,000 compared to the same time last year. So what public art project is “on tap” next, Mayor Bloomberg?

Murder Up In Metropolis

New York City’s murder rate has risen 8% in 2008. The NYPD reports over 200 so far this year. Robberies and rapes are up too. Overall however, crime in NYC has dropped 3%. Play nice New Yorkers. Tourists from tiny towns across America don’t want to see blood or bodies in their vacation photos.

Living In New York, Statistically Speaking

According to the Health Department, 2006 had the lowest death rate of any year on record. Only 6.7 out of every 1,000 NYC residents died. However, there were no statistics available for the death rate among the city’s tourists. We fear the high prices must have scared to death many an unsuspecting traveler from Mayberry, Podunk and other parts unknown. If true, and the number of dead tourists grows, who'll be left to buy the Statue of Liberty ashtrays?