By Philip Newman
The normal hustle and bustle of Grand Central Terminal at rush hour was almost interrupted Friday by a birthday party. The celebrants showed up in the thousands as the venerable transit edifice turned 100.
The crowd stood shoulder to shoulder beneath the starry ceiling as well as seated dignitaries in the terminal’s Main Concourse where “Sex and the City” actress Cynthia Nixon, singer/songwriter Melissa Manchester, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and others appeared on a makeshift stage. The West Point Brass and Percussion band started the program with a concert, including “Stars and Stripes Forever.”
Caroline Kennedy, whose mother, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis played a leading role in the drive to save Grand Central, spoke.
“She understood how great public spaces create community,” Kennedy said of her mother. “She would be proud that her tireless efforts have led to this anniversary celebration.”
Events in celebration of the centennial will go on throughout 2013.
