More than a billion people are set to tune in to watch the Times Square ball drop tonight. Another million are expected to attend the115th time New Year’s Eve celebrations in person at New York City‘s Times Square. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said that New York had been “operating in a heightened threat environment since October 7, and we remain vigilant.” But she assured visitors “there are no specific credible threats” at this time. Deputy Commissioner Rebecca Weiner, Intelligence and Counterterrorism, Police Department, added that this year’s heavy security was influenced by the German Christmas market attack, that left five dead and more than two injured, earlier this month. “We formulate our plan based on incidents that are happening around the world here in the city,” he said, adding that Christmas markets are a “persistent high risk target” for attacks. “And so, frankly, our New Year’s Eve celebrations around the world, which is why we put so much emphasis on all of the resources that are here focused on keeping this city and this event safe.” Security measures include a heavy police presence, drones, police dogs and restrictions on what attendees can bring. Revelers are not allowed to bring alcohol, backpacks, or even umbrellas this year. The ball drop, held annually since December 31, 1907, except for 1942 and 1943 due to World War II, was first organized by the owner of The New York Times, Adolph Ochs. Before the first ball drop, Ochs held a fireworks display for New Year’s Eve.
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