Morning Brief: December 31

If there's anything left for you do in 2015, today's the last day to do it. But if you're ready to usher in the new year, what better way to usher it in than with the city's own Times Square Ball Drop. Of course, it'll make traveling in midtown today a nightmare, so you'd better give yourself plenty of extra time if you're going anywhere. But whether you're braving the crowds to watch it in person, or tuning in with family and friends on TV, nothing beats this New York City tradition for saying good-bye and saying hello.

NEED TO KNOW

War Against Islamic State Altering Borders in Middle East [Washington Post]

Bill Cosby Charged in 2004 Sexual Assault [Huffington Post]

Death Toll Rises in Missouri Floods, Threat Not Over [NBC News]

Funeral Held for NYPD Detective Killed in Afghanistan [NY Times]

Times Square Toys 'R' Us Closes its Doors After 14 Years [CBS New York]

SPORTS

YESTERDAY

The Nets lost to the Magic 100-93.

The Rangers beat the Lightning 5-2.

The Devils topped the Senators 3-0.

TODAY

The Islanders take on the Sabres at 6.

WEATHER

Partly cloudy throughout the day and night, 48/36 [Full Forecast]

ON STAGE TONIGHT

• Deer Tick @ Brooklyn Bowl
•  Alex Bleeker & The Freaks @ Rough Trade NYC
•  Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue @ The Capitol Theatre
•  Gogol Bordello @ Terminal 5
•  Phish @ Madison Square Garden
•  As Tall As Lions @ Webster Hall
•  Gov’t Mule @ The Beacon Theatre
•  Steve Tyrell @ Café Carlyle
•  The Fab Faux: Rubber Soul in its Entirety @ City Winery

TODAY IN HISTORY

On this day in 1879, Thomas Edison first publicly demonstrates his electric incandescent light at Menlo Park, NJ.

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