NJ Couple Will ‘Drop The Ball’ At Their Town’s NYE Celebration

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ — A couple with an impressive resume of public service will be playing a very important role in their hometown’s countdown to 2026.

Steve and Sharon Somers, who’ve lived in Hackettstown for 38 years, will both press the button that drops Hackettstown’s iconic “M&M” ball at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve.

The event will take place on Wednesday from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at the center of Downtown Hackettstown.

Since moving to Hackettstown, the Somers have played a significant role in their community. The couple has helped raise money for school sports programs, funding projects including new scoreboards, revamped baseball fields, and more.

They also work for the town in an environmental capacity, replanting trees damaged by storms and disease, and assisting in “numerous community projects aimed at enhancing quality of life for Hackettstown residents.”

“Pressing the button is more than a gesture,” said the Somers. “It’s a reflection of 38 years of love, gratitude, and giving to a town that has given us so much. Hackettstown will forever be a part of us, and we will continue to help it shine, one act of kindness and one bright new year at a time.”

Joining the Somers in celebrating the new year will be Mayor Jerry DiMaio, 11-year-old Giana Pichardo performing the National Anthem, local cheerleading teams, live bands, and more.