Podiums are good in blocking strong winds. Wind coming down the side of the buildings is blocked before it hits the street.
nice result with the late day light. I see you took this back on Jan 4 when our temps were not so frigid. It would be brutal standing out here right now...
Found this very recent video on Youtube, courtesy "Liverpoold8."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1dMzMliVE8