The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ties In With the Center’s Development

A holiday tradition born out of the despair of the Great Depression evolved into New York’s showcase Christmas event for one of its landmark destinations.

by Rich Watson 

For close to a century, the holiday season in New York has been marked by the lighting of the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center, in midtown Manhattan. Hundreds flock to the televised ceremony, marked by live performances.

The development of the event coincides with that of the Center itself, started during the heart of the Great Depression.

BRW: Behind the Blind 6

In the sci-fi TV show Star Trek: Voyager, there was a character known only as The Doctor, a hologram who may or may not have been a sentient being. Within the context of the show, no one was sure one way or another, but bottom line: he was an Artificial Intelligence.

In his spare time, he wrote “holo-novels,” scenarios for virtual reality environments where the crew of the Starship Voyager could interact as real or fictitious characters. In one episode, The Doctor’s characters resemble the crew a little too much. 

Today, the use of AI in writing has become a serious debate.

191 St, the MTA’s Deepest Station, is Near Manhattan’s Highest Natural Point

They aren’t connected to each other, but they’re part of the same neighborhood.

by Rich Watson 

Washington Heights, in Manhattan, earns the second part of its name. With step streets to ease pedestrian travel among its hills, you become aware of its topography quickly.

The subway stations in WH are the deepest in New York. The one at 191 Street, for the 1 train, is the deepest of all—and it’s close to Manhattan’s natural peak.