The new year is well underway, with the party hats put away and everyone trying to get back on their pre-holiday schedule.
New Year’s Eve 2015 was celebrated by many Warren County residents at a party in historic Depot Bottom. The event was planned and organized by Industrial Development Board director Don Alexander, and Main Street McMinnville. Committee members include Shannon Gulick with Bridgestone, Debbie Sain with McMinnville Electric, Mitzie Locke with the industrial board and Brook Holmes with Main Street McMinnville.
The cold evening started with music from disc jockey Jason Gross and The Sound Machine. The most popular spots were around the two outdoor fire pits where folks gathered sipping hot beverages. Representatives from McMinnville Breakfast Rotary Club served hot chocolate, hot Dr Pepper and apple cider to attendees trying to ward off the cold. 
Bluegrass music was provided by Pat Flynn’s Band, with the trio using hand warmers to keep their fingers warm enough to play their instruments.
“We appreciated this very talented group coming and playing for us so much,” said Alexander. “Under the conditions, I think they did a wonderful job.”
The crowd gathering on Depot Street represented the county, with all ages mingling together. Nine-year-old Alexa Smartt took advantage of being outside on pavement by riding her hoverboard.
As the minutes ticked down to midnight, the crowd came together near the 13,000 pound tire which was to slowly descend during the final seconds of 2015. At the finale, the lit tire changed from 2015 to 2016 officially heralding in the new year. Immediately following, a flurry of fireworks was set off in the background.
Steve and Leslie Ginn reside downtown, and walked to take part in the festivities.
“It was great," said Leslie. “The perfect way to end the year.”
“We appreciate our sponsors so much,” said Alexander. “They all came together in an effort to showcase our oldest industries, McMinnville Manufacturing and Burroughs-Ross-Colville, to bring the people together and make it a safe community event.” 
The organizers were well pleased with the turnout of visitors, with it hard to estimate crowd numbers.
“We will have an evaluation meeting to discuss the event and its future,” said Alexander.