By Alan Fein

(AXcess News) New York - "It ain't Christmas without a tree," commented one New Yorker Friday as he watched workers lift a 72-foot tall Christmas tree by crane in Rockefeller Center where it will later be decorated with colorful lights and holiday ornaments.

The tree itself is actually making its second appearance as a Christmas tree, having first adorned the Varanyak family of Hamilton, NJ in 1931, where after the family planted it outdoors and hoped one day it would be grand enough to be the official Christmas Tree of New York's Rockefeller Center.

The tradition of displaying a Christmas tree in Manhattans Rockefeller Center started during the Great Depression when workers nearby erected a Christmas tree in 1931, though several years later it became an official annual event including the tree lighting ceremony now enjoyed by every New Yorker during the holiday period.

Mary Varanyak, who had died eight years ago, remembered that 1931 family Christmas and was remembered as saying she hoped the tree would one day be chosen as the New York Christmas tree displayed at Rockefeller Center.

The Varanyak's 72-foot tree weighed in at eight tons.

I'm sure everyone would agree with Mary, that this year's tree holds special hope for everyone, not just New Yorkers, as a symbol of our nation's celebration of the birth of Christ.  Merry Christmas everyone!  And a Happy New Year!