Area offers plenty of party plans for New Year's Eve

Tim Duffey thought his two-month-old cab company Designated Driver would be busy on New Year's Eve, just not this busy.

"I've already got over 100 reservations called in, and we don't even take reservations," Duffey said.

Duffey's company offers an alternative to the traditional cab service, offering a flat $10 fee for round trips within the Cape Girardeau city limits for up to three people.

Apparently the appeal isn't lost on New Year's Eve revelers, since Duffey is putting four extra vans into action that night to handle the overload.

Designated Driver's name says it all -- on Saturday night the service is ready to handle the overload of drunken revelers who will take to the local streets.

Calls to Cape Girardeau's other cab service, Kelley Transportation Co., were not returned.

With several bars in Cape Girardeau offering New Year's Eve entertainment there is no shortage of places to go for alcohol-fueled fun. But inebriated entertainment isn't for everyone.

While some party at the bars, others will flock to alcohol-free events to ring in the New Year. But giving up the alcohol doesn't mean giving up the music.

The Enchanted Forest at 811 Broadway, an all-ages music venue, has a slate of young bands ready to go on Saturday night. Owner Timexx "Nasty" Rainwalker, who also fronts local band Drivin' Rain, said the premises are monitored to make sure no alcohol or drugs get in.

Rainwalker said the venue isn't just for the sober-minded, but for music lovers who don't want the distractions of a bar.

"We're just straight out music fans," Rainwalker said. "People are coming just to hear the bands. The bands love it."

The clientele at the Enchanted Forest is primarily teens, but the venue is open to all ages.

The New Year's Eve party at Centenary United Methodist Church, however, is not. This sober party is meant for teens only, with anyone in grades 7 through 12 invited to partake in games, food and fun.

"The main reason is always to have a good time while being God-centered at the same time," said Centenary youth coordinator Joe Marrocco. "We just love to have fun and I love to provide a place where kids can have fun in a safe environment, hang out with their friends and be welcome."

With all the peer pressure for teens to drink on New Year's Eve, Marrocco said these alcohol-free parties are a necessity. The Centenary party is open to anyone in the age group, not just church members. Those who wish to attend are encouraged to notify the church ahead of time.

msanders@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 182