taking a stroll in Central Park after dinner - IN THE DARK. I don't care how safe Manhattan has gotten, that's asking to be mugged. No one in their right mind, unless they possibly are visiting Wollman Rink, goes into Central Park after dark.

Well, years ago I wouldn't have done that, but these days, sure. We do it fairly frequently in fact. (In certain parts of the park in any case.) As do many others. We're never anywhere near alone.

Gotta run. Will address the rest of your post later. :)