This week's calls to action include the following events and activities. All are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.

Library to hold series on photonics

The Friends and Foundation of the Rochester Public Library will tackle the subject of photonics during its Tuesday Topics in January, starting on Tuesday, January 12, with "the science of photonics." Paul Ballentine, executive director of the Center for Emerging and Innovative Sciences at the University of Rochester, will demystify the word and explain how photonics will impact our lives. Tuesday, January 19, is "the politics of photonics" with Democrat and Chronicle reporters David Riley and Khristopher Brooks. And on Tuesday, January 26, "the future" will be presented by Kent Gardner, principal and chief economist at the Center for Governmental Research. Gardner will talk about the economic impact of locating the American Institute for Manufacturing Integrated Photonics in Rochester. All of the Tuesday Topics meetings are held in the Kate Gleason Auditorium in the Central Library, 115 South Avenue, from 12:12 p.m. to 12:52 p.m. The events are free and open to the public and participants are welcome to bring their lunch.

Metro Justice event supports Afghan Peace Volunteers

Metro Justice's Peace Action and Education Task Force will present an evening of holiday music and poetry in support of the Afghan Peace Volunteers' Quilt Project at 7 p.m. on Thursday, December 17. The Afghan Peace Volunteers make and distribute duvets to poor families in Kabul, including those in refugee camps. Activist, poet, and musician Jack Bradigan Spula will play classical music fitting for the season. The event will be held at the Downtown United Presbyterian Church, 121 North Fitzhugh Street. Admission: $20 with a sliding scale to $10, with all funds going to the Afghan Peace Volunteers. Dessert, tea, and coffee will be served during the intermission. Information: 313-6674.