San Francisco honors Tony Bennett with statue, festivities

[yuiyoshida]

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — If ever there was a man to throw a grand birthday bash for in San Francisco, it had to be Tony Bennett.

And that is exactly what happened Friday.

After the speeches, the music, and the heaping amount of praise for the legendary crooner were over, hundreds of people watched as the white smoke cleared and an 8-foot tall bronze statue of the singer was unveiled outside the Fairmont Hotel atop Nob Hill.

"I can't get over what just happened," said Bennett, who turned 90 earlier this month. "That's the most beautiful statue I have ever seen. It will live in my heart forever. Thank you for being so wonderful to me. I'll never forget this day."

Bennett looked sharp in a blue suit but said only a few words and didn't sing, but that was OK with the crowd. They were just happy to see him.

http://bigstory.ap.org/article/62b8d1b3dd994f1cb0d9a2cdda2a4b7c/san-francisco-honor-tony-bennett-statue-festivities

(This just made me cry! )

[Auggie]

1. Statue looks like Mayor George Moscone from that angle

Here's a close-up of the face:



Bennett a little younger. Sculptor didn't quite capture him IMO ...

?partner=allrovi.com

[No Vested Interest]

2. I love Tony Bennett! This could be an incentive to visit SF one last time. nt

[yuiyoshida]

4. Hard to believe he is only 90

He looks much younger!

[No Vested Interest]

5. Not just his looks. - Human singing voice is usually long gone

in advanced age.
He still carries a sweet tone.
And how many nonagenarians can even stand alone for an extended time - as in on-stage.

[KamaAina]

3. Shouldn't it be a giant heart?

[NBachers]

6. Aw, jeez- I would've loved to be at that event. Tony is in a class by himself. What A Dude!

"Paul Tormey, regional vice president and general manager of the Fairmont San Francisco, agrees.

"He's the godfather of the city. He has always been there in times of need and always been there as a good friend," Tormey said. "He's been absolutely wonderful to the city."

I like that- the Godfather of The City. He's been there for our Giants' playoffs and long-awaited World Series victories. There is no-one more hip than Tony Bennett. He deserves all the love that's thrown his way.

Lookit Willie Brown photobombing Tony.