Happy Birthday to Christine Olender! (1962-2001)
This Fourth of July marks Christine’s 64th birthday, a day she deserved to be here to celebrate.
She was the Assistant General Manager of Windows on the World, the restaurant located on the 106 and 107 floors in WTC 1. She was incredibly well liked and deeply respected by her staff. A tireless worker, Christine often put in long hours at the restaurant and became the “key troubleshooter and coordinator of all special projects.” She was knowledgeable in every department that Windows had to offer, meaning anyone could go to her for guidance or help.
On that fateful September morning, Christine arrived at work far earlier than scheduled to help out with a breakfast conference. She wasn’t supposed to be there when Flight 11 struck. Christine and several other managers immediately stepped up, trying to organize an escape. As the elected fire warden, Christine was responsible for helping more than 100 guests and employees evacuate safely. She did everything she could.
So wherever you are on this patriotic day, remember to raise a glass to Christine. She enjoyed celebrating with Veuve Clicquot, but any adult beverage will suffice. Her friends liked to joke that she would be watching, and would be livid if anyone forgot!