Friends, it has now been a decade since we welcomed the very last new year with Dick Clark at NYC's Times Square.
It is incredible how a decade has passed since that final appearance of Dick Clark at Times Square in 2012. His impact on American pop culture and the entertainment industry was undeniable, and even though he passed away shortly after, his legacy continues to resonate. As the "oldest teenager," Dick Clark epitomized timeless cool, blending his youthful energy with unmatched professionalism.
Having had the opportunity to interview him was a memorable experience. He was a true pioneer, not only as a host on American Bandstand but also as a producer and a key figure in the growth of the music and television industries. His influence on rock 'n roll, especially through his role as a DJ, was immense. The fact that he made such a lasting mark on both the industry and generations of fans speaks volumes about his talent and charisma.
I recall the FALN night of horror and the joyous Millennium, which inspired me as my NYC AP News Bureau ushered the year 2000.
The turn of the millennium was an unforgettable time for the world and anyone working in the news. The contrast between the chaotic and terrifying FALN night of horror, and the hopeful, inspiring energy of the Millennium celebrations a few years later was surreal to experience such a dramatic shift in the collective mood during those years. As a veteran journalist, I have covered the good, bad, and the ugly.
According to public safety officials, the Puerto Rican terrorist group was responsible for a series of bombings on New Year's Eve that rocked four government buildings and seriously injured three police officers.
The blasts, which also struck Police Headquarters and two Federal office buildings including the Courthouse during 90 minutes, severed the leg of one officer and injured two bomb squad detectives, one of whom also lost all the fingers on his right hand and may have been deafened, were felled when one of the bombs blew up in their faces. They might have been killed had they not been wearing armored suits
The Fuerzas Armadas de Liberacion Nacional (Armed Forces of National Liberation) bombing campaign was one of those dark chapters in NYC's history, with far-reaching consequences. The tragic and terrifying events tied to it are etched into the memories of many of us who lived through them, especially in the city. The echoes of such a painful moment would have been heavy when working as a reporter in the years following.
But then, as you note, the Millennium ushered in an entirely different kind of vibe. The turn of the century was charged with excitement, reflection, and a collective desire to embrace the possibilities of the future. Being at the heart of New York City’s News Bureau during that time felt like being a part of history in the making. NYC was not just celebrating the arrival of the year 2000—it was also brimming with optimism and technological advancements, cultural shifts, and the overwhelming sense of the world standing on the brink of something new.
The fact that I was there, reporting on it all, made me a firsthand eyewitness to both the highs and lows of those times. What stands out most for you when you think back on that time? The Millennium celebrations were spectacular as we ushered in the new year from every time zone on Earth.
The 2012 edition marked Dick Clark's final appearance on the NYE program before he passed away four months later on April 18, 2012.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhLsEVOYk2U
For me, Dick Clark will always be the coolest Teenager and The Zar of all Rock n Roll Disk Jockeys that ever played the top tunes..
