The fifth annual Des Plaines New Year’s Eve on the Plaza, held in downtown Des Plaines and at several nearby satellite locations, was the place to be at the stoke of midnight this New Year’s Eve! Snow and low temperatures didn’t keep Des Plaines residents away from the annual event sponsored by the Des Plaines Special Events Commission under the direction of New Year’s Eve on the Plaza Chairman Jim Wozny. This year’s event was highlighted by the Radio Disney Party Patrol (AM 1300) at the historic Des Plaines Theatre, live entertainment and food at the Des Plaines Library, kids crafts the History Center, bowling at Sim’s Bowl, Bingo at St. Mary School auditorium, and Karaoke at the First United Methodist Church. Carriages and trolleys provided transportation. The culmination of the evening was the midnight countdown and diamond drop complete with confetti cannons, electronic fireworks! Prize drawings were held throughout the evening. Local restaurants and businesses contributed to the success of the New Year’s Event. New Year’s Eve on the Plaza is the result of Mayor Arredia’s desire to host a non alcoholic family oriented event. The Special Events Commission, responsible for this event’s coordination and several others throughout the year, is a group of 13 volunteers appointed by Mayor Arredia and the City Council. The group is chaired by Linda Forman.