Community Calendar

Dec. 21-23

Pianist Margaret Erickson will perform 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Dobyns Dining Room of the Keeter Center on the College of the Ozarks campus in Point Lookout. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, call (417) 334-6411, ext. 2212.

Dec. 29

A party will he held at 7:30 p.m. at the Sertoma Building, 318 S. Campbell, to raise funds for The Garbonzos trip to Japan. Springfield Sister Cities Association chose The Garbonzos, a local band, to represent the city by performing in Isesaki, Japan, in August 2005. The Garbonzos are Going to Japan Party includes music by Supe & The Sandwiches and The Garbonzos, along with performances by friends and special guests. Cost is an $8 donation at the door. Refreshments, which are included in the price of admission, will be provided by MaMa Jean's Natural Food Market. A cash bar will be provided by Rasta Grill. A silent auction will feature items and artwork from several individuals, including Jim Mayfield, Wes Wilson and Jeff Brundege.

Dec. 31

Springfield's Festival of Lights culminates with the 15th First Night Springfield. The Creamery Arts Center will open at 5:30 p.m., offering make-and-take, hands-on arts activities. Evening activities will run 7-11:30 p.m. and include indoor family fun such as music, theater, storytelling and comedy. The alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration will conclude with a fireworks grand finale in Jordan Valley Park. Admission to all evening indoor sites is $7. Family ticket four-packs are available for $25; children under 3 are admitted free. Admission tickets (which are stickers) can be purchased at the Creamery Arts Center, Emack & Bolio's, The Library Center, The Library Station, Well-Fed Head Books and Dillon's grocery stores. They also can be purchased online at www.springfieldarts.org.

World Peace Meditation, presented by the Spiritual Enrichment Center of the Ozarks, will begin at 5:45 a.m. at Quality Inn, at Battlefield Road and Highway 65 in Springfield. A potluck breakfast will follow. For additional information, call (417) 335-5363.