I noticed someone asked about the helicopters - - NYPD has been doing flyovers at nearly every service I've attended - - Usually just before the procession afterwards.As for anyone near St. Pat's - - I would advise coming up via Madison on 50th or 51st so that you approach from the back of the church. There will be a cop at a barricade on both those back corners on Madison and just tell him you're going to the service. This way you could creep up the side steps of the cathedral and at least be there for the beginning ceremony, stop in and make a visit, pick up a Mass Card if you like - - if you cannot stay for the whole Mass.
Believe me, I know that everyone doesn't have the luxury of taking entire days off like I do (why do you think I BEGGED the Red Cross and Salvation Army to take me?) but maybe they'd like to at least stop by for the opening ceremonies when it's right near them.