Happy New Year! It’s a phrase that conjures up images of confetti, streamers, funny hats, balloons, noisemakers and much more. One of the most enduring images for the holiday is the crowds jamming Times Square in New York City for the midnight countdown. During the festivities, at 11:59 p.m., a giant Waterford crystal ball begins a decent until it finally lands at exactly midnight. That is the “official” start of the new year. This scene has become the traditional New Year welcome and is known the world over.

I bet you don’t know that beautiful Waterford crystal balls are not exactly the “drop” of choice around the U.S. It turns out, that like most local events, the drop item at 11:59 p.m. is more of a local themed item. This week I thought I would let you know because it is quite a list of unusual items, and these are only a few. Some of the things dropping across the country include pine cones, peaches, cherry blossoms, watermelons, popcorn, red roses, white roses, possums, beach balls, a walleye fish, a big cheese and a pickle; oh and even a Peeps chick! (That’s right, a Peeps chick.)

Crazy ideas, huh? Well, not really if you think that each of the places where these occur has a real connection to each of these items. It is a real hometown spin on a tradition that may have started in New York but, shall we say, was perfected in the heartland of America. Maybe New York can take a lesson here. I mean although Waterford Crystal is very nice, it isn’t even made in New York. Maybe they could reconsider and drop a corned beef sandwich, a piece of cheesecake, maybe a bagel; something more in keeping with the local flavor. (I know, I know it’s all food related.) Well, maybe it’s because it’s more of a general “national” celebration, New York wanted to keep it kind of location neutral. I think I might look into this a little more.

As always, my job here is to give an overview of the events going on this week. So if you decide to venture out on New Year's, consider visiting one of these events if you are not geographically challenged to get there. If you are, however, please use the search box above and find some terrific hometown New Year's Eve celebrations in your backyard.

On a personal note, I want to wish each and every one of you and your families, a happy, healthy and prosperous 2013. I also want to thank you for allowing me to visit with you this year, and I look forward to many more visits in 2013. The Happiest of New Years to you all! Click to read what's happening in your area

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