The crystal ball that falls each New Year’s Eve in New York’s Times Square keeps getting better and better, not only in value but also in purpose.
The theme of the 2015 crystal ball is “fortitude,” particularly in reference to the refugees who seek a better life.
And the 12-foot in diameter crystal ball — the yearly toast of New York — represents that noble effort.
“Over 15 million people around the world who International Rescue Committee has served over the last year, for those people, 2015 cannot come fast enough,” said David Miliband, president of the International Rescue Committee.
He said 2015 will be a year in which his organization will continue to serve refugees looking for a chance to live in freedom.
The ball has 288 crystal triangles that are diamond-cut and sits atop a crystal pillar and depicts the theme of fortitude.
More than 2,600 crystal panels and 32,000 LED lights make the ball sparkle.
Workers put the final touches on the creative work of art on Saturday.
The ball is raised 470 feet in the air and will be lowered on Wednesday night in front of thousands of screaming fans below. It is believed to be the largest crystal ball in the world.
Regan Iglesia, the senior vice president of Waterford, admitted to 1010 WINS reporter Gary Baumgarten that he holds his breath when the ball makes its annual countdown journey down the pole.
“But you know what? I think that the euphoria and excitement that’s going on — it’s such an amazing celebration,” Iglesia said. “There’s nothing on in the planet like this.”
The Times Square celebration takes place each year and includes bands, parties and after-midnight music.
