On October 23, 2009, in the afternoon in front of the Chelsea Hotel at 222 W. 23rd St. in Manhattan, a group of Leonard Cohen Fans gathered to watch the unveiling of new plaque commemorating Leonard's 75th birthday and his famous song about Janis Joplin and the Chelsea Hotel. Over 300 members of the Leonard Cohen Forum contributed for this plaque. Cohenist Dick Straub , who created the project, and Leonard's lively sister Esther presided over the event. It was a photo op for all.