New Year's Eve celebrations

New Year's Eve is a great time to celebrate another 365 days; to join friends, to collectively let our hair down and enjoy an evening out.

There's nothing wrong with spending New Year's at home, playing board games and watching the ball drop on television, of course.

But for many, hitting the town is a tradition. We certainly encourage everyone to be safe, have designated drivers or find responsible ways to get home if you plan on drinking.

If you do plan on going out, there can be an additional benefit. A handful of organizations will be having parties for good causes. For instance, the fourth annual St. Jude New Year's Eve Benefit at Ray's at the Plaza will, as the name implies, raise money for St. Jude. Another charitable party will be the third annual United Way of Southeast Missouri party at The Venue.

If you're looking for an alcohol-free and family- friendly event, Grace United Methodist Church will hold a New Year's Eve party.

There are many places in Cape Girardeau that will offer a festive atmosphere to ring in the New Year.

Whatever your plans are, we hope they include good friends and company.

Here's to an even better 2014.