Fade To Black – Jeff Harman – December 30
Jeff Harman
December 30, 2024
2025 Predictions!
Tonight, Monday on FADE to BLACK: Astrologer Jeff Harman joins us to share his predictions for 2025. Drawing on ancient techniques and modern insights, Jeff explores what the stars reveal about global events, personal growth, and the challenges ahead. Tune in for a fascinating look at the cosmic forces shaping the year to come!
Jeff Harman is a second-generation, world-renowned Master Astrologer and Spiritual Advisor with 47 years of experience. Jeff uses ancient techniques including Classical, Vedic, Naadi, Kabbalistic, and Astro-Location Astrology, combined with decades of Vedic Planetary Gem prescription expertise to assist his clients.
WEBSITES:
https://jeffharman.com/
Fade To Black – Off-Air – December 31
Off-Air
December 31, 2024
New Year's Eve!
Tonight, Tuesday on FADE to BLACK: Off-Air
Website: https://jimmychurchradio.com
The Fascinating History of the Times Square Ball Drop: A New Year’s Eve Tradition
The iconic New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square has become synonymous with ringing in the new year. This cherished tradition, which began over a century ago, first took place on December 31, 1907, welcoming the year 1908. Adolph Ochs, the owner of The New York Times, initiated the event to commemorate the opening of the newspaper’s new headquarters at One Times Square.
The Birth of an Icon: The Original Times Square Ball
The very first ball, designed and constructed by Jacob Starr, a talented immigrant metalworker, was a marvel of its time. Crafted from iron and wood, the ball measured 5 feet in diameter and weighed an impressive 700 pounds. Its 100 25-watt light bulbs illuminated the night sky, creating a spectacle unlike any other. This innovative display replaced the traditional fireworks show that Ochs had organized in previous years. City officials banned fireworks in 1907 due to safety concerns, paving the way for the birth of a new tradition.
The ball drop quickly became a hit, drawing massive crowds to Times Square. The success of the event established it as an enduring hallmark of New Year’s Eve celebrations in New York City and beyond.
New Year’s Eve Before the Ball Drop
Before Times Square became the epicenter of New Year’s Eve festivities, celebrations were centered around Trinity Church in lower Manhattan. The church’s bells would ring out to welcome the new year, drawing people to its historic grounds. The shift to Times Square marked a cultural transformation in how New Yorkers celebrated the arrival of a new year, blending traditional and modern elements.
Continuity and Change: The Ball Drop Through the Years
Since its debut, the Times Square ball drop has occurred annually with only two exceptions. During World War II, in 1942 and 1943, the event was suspended due to wartime blackouts. Despite these interruptions, the tradition resumed with vigor, adapting to the times while retaining its core essence.
Over the years, the Times Square ball has undergone several transformations to reflect advancements in technology and changing aesthetics. Today’s ball is a dazzling masterpiece, constructed with Waterford crystal panels and powered by thousands of LED lights, showcasing a breathtaking array of colors and patterns. While the design has evolved, the spirit of the event remains unchanged, symbolizing hope, renewal, and togetherness.
A Global Celebration
The Times Square ball drop has grown from a local event to an international phenomenon. Millions of people from around the world tune in each year to watch the ball descend, counting down the final seconds of the year. For many, it’s more than just a celebration; it’s a shared moment of unity and anticipation for the future.
The Legacy of Adolph Ochs and Jacob Starr
Adolph Ochs and Jacob Starr’s contributions to this beloved tradition cannot be overstated. Ochs’s vision of creating a public celebration to mark a significant milestone for The New York Times gave rise to an event that has transcended its origins. Starr’s craftsmanship laid the foundation for the dazzling displays we enjoy today, proving that innovation and creativity can leave a lasting legacy.
Conclusion: A Tradition That Stands the Test of Time
The Times Square ball drop is more than just a New Year’s Eve event; it’s a cultural touchstone that has brought joy and excitement to generations. From its humble beginnings in 1907 to its status as a global spectacle, the tradition continues to inspire and unite people from all walks of life. As the countdown begins and the ball descends, it serves as a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the endless possibilities of a new year.
Whether you’re watching from the streets of Times Square or from the comfort of your home, the ball drop is a moment to pause, reflect, and look forward to what lies ahead. Here’s to celebrating a timeless tradition and the bright future it promises!
Fade To Black – Off-Air – January 01
Off-Air
January 01, 2024
New Year's Day!
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025!!!!!
Website: https://jimmychurchradio.com/
The Fascinating History of New Year's Resolutions: From Ancient Traditions to Modern Aspirations
The history of New Year's resolutions spans over 4,000 years, beginning with ancient civilizations and evolving through various cultures to become the tradition we know today. This timeless practice has served as a symbol of reflection, renewal, and hope, deeply rooted in human history. In this article, we’ll explore its ancient origins, its transformation through Roman and Christian influences, and how it has adapted to modern times.
Ancient Origins of New Year's Resolutions
New Year's resolutions trace back to the ancient Babylonians around 4,000 years ago. Their New Year celebration, called Akitu, took place in mid-March during the planting season. This 12-day festival was a time of renewal, where the Babylonians made promises to their gods, such as paying off debts and returning borrowed items. These commitments were believed to earn divine favor, ensuring prosperity and protection in the coming year.
The Babylonians’ focus on accountability and their connection to agricultural cycles highlight the communal and spiritual roots of New Year’s resolutions. The idea of making promises to improve oneself or mend relationships has persisted through the centuries.
How Roman Culture Shaped the Tradition
The practice of New Year's resolutions gained a new dimension under Roman influence. In 46 BC, Julius Caesar reformed the calendar, establishing January 1st as the start of the new year. This decision honored Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and transitions. Depicted with two faces, Janus symbolically looked back at the past and forward into the future.
Romans marked this occasion by offering sacrifices to Janus and making promises of good behavior and personal improvement. These acts were both spiritual and practical, emphasizing accountability to the gods and to oneself. The Romans’ focus on self-reflection and commitment helped solidify New Year’s resolutions as a meaningful tradition.
Christian Adaptation of New Year’s Resolutions
With the rise of Christianity, the new year became an opportunity for spiritual reflection. Early Christians viewed the new year as a time to acknowledge past mistakes and resolve to do better. By the 18th century, this practice evolved into more formalized religious observances.
In 1740, John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, introduced the Covenant Renewal Service. Held on New Year’s Eve, this spiritual gathering included scripture readings, prayers, and hymns, encouraging participants to reflect on their actions and renew their commitment to their faith. These services provided a solemn and introspective alternative to more secular celebrations.
The Evolution of Secular Resolutions
By the 1700s, New Year’s resolutions began shifting towards secular goals, aligning with broader societal changes. The first documented use of the term "New Year resolution" appeared in a Boston newspaper in 1813. Resolutions at this time focused on self-improvement and moral growth, reflecting Enlightenment ideals.
As the 19th and 20th centuries progressed, the tradition became increasingly personal and centered on individual aspirations. The themes of renewal and self-betterment persisted, but the focus shifted from spiritual commitments to goals like education, career advancement, and health improvement.
New Year’s Resolutions Today
In contemporary society, New Year’s resolutions are widely recognized as a tradition of setting goals for personal development. Common resolutions include improving health, saving money, learning new skills, and strengthening relationships. These goals reflect modern values of self-improvement and adaptability in a rapidly changing world.
Despite their popularity, studies show that only about 8% of people successfully achieve their resolutions. Factors such as unrealistic expectations and a lack of concrete planning often contribute to this low success rate. However, the enduring appeal of New Year’s resolutions lies in their ability to inspire hope and provide a fresh start, even if perfection isn’t achieved.
Why New Year’s Resolutions Endure
The tradition of New Year’s resolutions continues to resonate because it speaks to universal human desires: the need for renewal, the aspiration for growth, and the pursuit of a better future. While the specific practices and goals have evolved over millennia, the essence of this tradition remains unchanged. Whether rooted in spirituality, cultural customs, or personal ambition, New Year’s resolutions symbolize the enduring human spirit and our ability to adapt and strive for improvement.
Conclusion
From the ancient Babylonians’ promises to their gods to the Romans’ sacrifices to Janus, and from early Christian reflections to modern self-improvement goals, New Year’s resolutions have a rich and varied history. They remind us of the power of reflection, the importance of setting intentions, and the hope that comes with each new year. As we step into another year, let us embrace the spirit of renewal and take inspiration from this timeless tradition.
References:
Fade To Black – Trey Hudson – January 02
Trey Hudson
January 02, 2024
Unknown Phenomena
Tonight, Thursday on FADE to BLACK: Explore the unknown with Trey Hudson, Director of the Anomalous Studies and Observation Group (ASOG). Trey shares his journey from military intelligence to leading multidisciplinary investigations into high-strangeness phenomena. With decades of expertise and a focus on both experiencers and empirical data, Trey offers a compelling take on the mysteries that defy explanation.
Trey is the Director of the Anomalous Studies and Observation Group (ASOG), which investigates incidents of high strangeness using a multidisciplinary approach. ASOG emphasizes the importance of both experiencers and empirical data in their research.
A native of Atlanta, Trey earned his Eagle Scout rank and studied psychology and anthropology at the University of West Georgia, where he worked with renowned scholars in humanistic and transpersonal psychology. He was commissioned as a U.S. Army Military Intelligence Officer in 1987, serving until an injury ended his military career.
Trey spent over 30 years in federal service, specializing in intelligence, security, and emergency management. He retired in 2023 as a Supervisory Security Specialist. His career includes a tour in Afghanistan and numerous commendations, including the NATO ISAF Medal.
An EMS First Responder, Rescue SCUBA Diver, and certified Military Emergency Management Specialist, Trey lives in the southern U.S. with his wife and has two adult daughters.
Website: https://www.treyhudsonresearch.com/