by Anne Porter
staff associate

Everyone is worried about Y2K. Before all the panic attacks begin and all the banks and automobiles cannot operate, everyone should kick it off with a memorable time on New Year's Eve. The final calendar day to be marked 19-- is quickly approaching, and it is time to decide where to be at the long-awaited stroke of midnight.

For that distant allure, hop a plane. Explore some other city. Remember, though, to check travel times as many airplanes have travel restrictions.

Katherine Romine, a UM-St. Louis senior majoring in communication, has two possible options this New Year's.

"I think I might be going to Chicago," Romine said.

She explained that her friend there has a house overlooking Lake Michigan. If not Chicago, Romine said she would stay in town and go to Soulard to check out the scene.

Other cities near St. Louis that are within driving distance include Kansas City, Memphis, and New Orleans.

Local concerts that include excellent performers are Johnnie Johnson at Blueberry Hill and Mesh and Stir at Stage Left.. Latin lovers can find the flair with Javier Mendoza at the Firehouse. There will even be Elvis sightings at the Casino Queen's Club Sevens, when "The King" celebrates the holiday with The Elvis Tribute.

Theater buffs can enjoy performances of "Into the Woods" at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis. The Bissell Mansion Restaurant and Dinner Theater and the Lemp Mansion offer mystery dinner theaters.

Other possibilities for the over-21 crowd include bar hopping on a visit to the Landing, Soulard, or the Central West End. All these areas have many bars, ale houses, and dance clubs in close proximity to each other, so there is less of need to travel great distances. For those who are opting for the home advantage, the house offers methods to millennium madness.

Throwing a party honors the classic way to ring in the new year. The small get-together complete with favors, food, and beverages that includes family and friends can make a great alternative without leaving the comfort and convenience of your home. Movies, board games, and baking could provide activities that include all members of the party. For the romantics out there, a candlelight dinner with floating water-roses can create a very elegant and romantic setting. If someone does not want to attempt a culinary concoction, many local establishments offer New Year's packages with both food and drink. Since many college students do have to work, tribute has to be paid to them. Mike Funaidi, a UM-St. Louis junior majoring in mass communications, is one of those working students.

"Right now it looks like I'll be working until 10 p.m., so if I'm lucky, one of the guys there will have a party," Funaidi said.

So for everyone, whatever you do this millennium celebration, have a festive and safe time.