US News

HAVING A BALL – HOW YOU CAN RING IN THE NEW YEAR

The six-foot-wide ball has been tested, the confetti is ready, the security checkpoints are in place, and the balloons – and revelers – are pumped up for tonight’s Times Square countdown to welcome 2006.

Mayor Bloomberg estimated 1 million people will brave the traffic, a bit of rain as they say goodbye to the old year at “the Crossroads of the World.”

The Times Square bash will begin when the ball is lighted and raised at 6 p.m. and will include singing by Mary J. Blige and Mariah Carey and fireworks.

About five minutes before the ball starts dropping, those who made it to viewing areas will hear the world premiere of a song written for the Univisión Television Network’s World Cup 2006 soccer coverage, performed by top Latin artists Ana Barbara, Pablo Montero, Mariana Seoane and Anais.

Long before that, tight security will in place, beginning with Midtown street closings at 3:30 p.m., and security checks.

Backpacks will be searched and no alcohol will be allowed in the square, officials said.

Mayor Bloomberg advised celebrants to dress warmly – and with waterproof clothing – because once inside the sealed off areas, they won’t be able to leave until it’s 2006.