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NEW YORK (AP) — People from around the world, and at least some New Yorkers, will start gathering in tightly policed viewing pens in mid-afternoon in Times Square to start the long wait to ring in the New Year at midnight with the iconic ball drop. It's already 2017 in New Zealand and many Pacific Islands. Sydney, Australia will honor some of the most beloved entertainers who died in 2016.
BAGHDAD (AP) — Police have concluded a pair of suicide bombers caused two explosions at a busy market in central Baghdad that killed at least 28 people and injured at least 54. The market sold car accessories, food and clothes as well as agricultural seeds and machinery. No group has claimed responsibility, but the Islamic State group has launched near-daily attacks in the capital in recent months.
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Even on New Year's Eve, large crowds of South Koreans gathered today to join another rally demanding the ouster of impeached President Park Geun-hye (goon-hay), who's determined to restore her powers through a court trial. Park's supporters rallied in nearby streets, surrounded by thick lines of police. The court has up to six months to decide whether Park should permanently step down or be reinstated.
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Some residents of Maine could be without power into the new year. More than 100,000 homes and businesses were in the dark during the peak of a super-charged nor'easter that dumped more than 2 feet of snow in some areas. Some areas had thunderclaps and snow that fell at a rate of 6 inches per hour. Some communities that were spared had heavy rain.
MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin says he won't immediately retaliate for the Obama administration's attempt to punish his country over election meddling allegations. Instead, he says he will wait for a new approach by Donald Trump. The president-elect called Putin "very smart." Putin says no U.S. diplomats will be ousted in response to President Barack Obama's decision to expel Russian diplomats.
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