December P&K 2008 Calendar
To list your events in the P&K Calendar e-mail calendar@parents-kids.com. Deadline is six weeks prior to publication. Photos are welcome, but may not be returned.
Through December
Registration for the 2nd Annual Mississippi Blues Kids’ Marathon. One mile fun run, ages 6-13. Deadline is Dec. 31, run is Jan. 3. Registration forms available at www.msbluesmarathon.com.
Through December
Cantabile Youth Chorale Auditions. A metro based choir for girls in grades 3-12, continues its fourth season with rehearsals in Madison, Brandon, and Clinton. Cantabile Youth Chorale provides a complete music education program with emphasis on vocal production, diction, and breathing. Contact Andrea Coleman, Artistic Director, 601-936-6791 or visit www.cychoirs.com for more information.
Through December Sat. & Sun.
Winter Wonderlight, Laser Show. 3pm Sat-Sun. Russell C. Davis Planetarium. Downtown Jackson. Experience this laser light “ballet” where animated images dance to holiday music performed by familiar artists, including the Beach Boys, Garth Brooks, Nat “King” Cole, Madonna, and U2. Ticket prices are $6.50 Adults; $5.50 Seniors; $4 Children. 601-960-1552.
Through December Saturdays
The Alien Who Stole Christmas Sky Show. 1pm Sat. Russell C. Davis Planetarium Downtown Jackson. Travel into space on an adventurous escapade with an alien who kidnaps Saint Nicholas and takes him to other worlds where children need presents. Ticket prices are $5.50 Adults; $4.50 Seniors; $3 Children. 601-960-1552.
Through December Fri. & Sat.
Season of Light, Sky Show. 8:30pm Fri-Sat. Russell C. Davis Planetarium. Downtown Jackson. Explore the origins of the “Star of Bethlehem” and learn about winter traditions and celebrations around the world. Ticket prices are $5.50 Adults; $4.50 Seniors; $3 Children. 601-960-1552.
Through December 24
Hope on Santa’s Sleigh. 11am-7pm Mon-Sat. & Sun. 1-6pm. Metrocenter Mall. Santa brings ho-ho-holiday cheer for the Christmas season.
Through January 4
John James Audubon: American Artist and Naturalist. Mississippi Museum of Art. 380 South Lamar Street. This exhibition includes original Audubon letters, rare books, photographs, personal items, and sixty of the original large hand-colored Double Elephant Folio engravings from The Birds of America, selected from the collection and archives of the John James Audubon Museum at Henderson, Kentucky. Call 601-960-1515or visit www.msmuseumart.org.
Through January 4
A Painter's Odyssey: The Art of Marshall Bouldin III. Mississippi Museum of Art. 380 South Lamar Street. Artwork from across the career of the state’s most prominent portrait artist is presented. Call 601-960-1515 or visit www.msmuseumart.org.
Through January 4
Mississippi Watercolor Society Grand National Watercolor Exhibition. Mississippi Museum of Art. 380 South Lamar Street. This annual presentation includes works from across the country in various water-based mediums, organized in conjunction with the Mississippi Watercolor Society. Call 601-960-1515 or visit www.msmuseumart.org.
Through January 4
Dinosaurs! Exhibit. Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. Travel back millions of years as you roam amongst the dinosaurs. From a Protoceratops with hatchlings to a Tyrannosaurus rex - see them walk, roar, feed, fight and care for their young. This robotic dinosaur exhibit will fascinate children and adults of all ages! 8am-5pm Mon-Fri.; 9am-5pm Sat.; 1-5pm Sun. LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. Admission to park and museum $5 adults, $4 seniors, and $3 children. Membership $35 individual or $65 family. 601-354-7303.
Through February 1
Dinosaurs Alive! Mega-HD Cinema. Russell C. Davis Planetarium. Downtown Jackson. Join renowned paleontologists as they travel around the world in search of new fossils and evidence that dinosaur descendants are still among us. See realistic and scientifically-accurate computer-generated animation bring dinosaurs back to life in a big way! 12pm & 2pm Tue-Fri.; 7:30pm Fri-Sat.; 2pm & 4pm Sat-Sun. Ticket prices are $6.50 Adults; $5.50 Seniors; $4 Children. 601-960-1552.
Through Dec. 23
Canton’s Victorian Christmas Festival. Animated Museums, Carousel Rides, Miniature Train and Fire Truck Rides, Gingerbread Display, Horse & Buggy Rides, and much more. For more information, contact the Canton Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-844-3369.
Through December 31
2008 Year of the Frog. Jackson Zoo. New amphibian exhibit frogs and salamanders will be available for adoption and animal ambassador programs will educate and entertain. Call the Jackson Zoo at 601-352-2580 or 601-352-2580 or visit www.jacksonzoo.org.
December Saturdays
Greater Belhaven Market. 9am-1pm. April-December. McDade’s Market parking lot. Open-air market offering a variety of foods, seasonal produce, art and crafts.
December
Millsaps Winter Enrichment Series. Registration begins Dec 1. Holiday gift
certificates are available. Non-credit classes for 16 years old and up in art, computer languages, creative writing, gardening, music and fitness. Call 601-974-1130 for listings and fees.
December 1-30
24th Annual Festival of Christmas Trees. Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center, Jackson. Come decorate Christmas Trees to win an award! Call 601-960-1457.
December 1 Monday
The Mississippi Girlchoir presents HODIE with The Mississippi Chorus. 7:30pm, Wesley Biblical Seminary, 787 E. Northside Dr.
December 2-21
A Christmas Carol. New Stage Theatre. A traditional holiday gift to the community was recognized as one of five outstanding productions across the country by USA Weekend and we are excited about this year’s production. For tickets and information call 601-948-3531 or go online at www.newstagetheatre.com.
December 3-12
Christmas at the AG Museum. This event is designed for students to use and show off their creativity. Students can bring their decorations they make at school and decorate a wreath at the Museum. The wreaths will hang throughout the Museum grounds during the holiday season. This event also includes a ticket to the Museum’s Christmas play which was written and performed by museum staff and is about giving and sharing during the holiday season. Spaghetti dinners are available. Reservations required. For more information, visit www.msagmuseum.org or call 1-800-844-8687 or email: Elizabeth@mdac.state.ms.us.
December 4 Thursday
7th Annual Lighting of Kids Towne Park. 6pm. Clinton. Join in celebrating as Mayor Rosemary Aultman lights of hundreds of lights that will fill the Kids Towne playground. Enjoy Christmas carols, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa as the community celebrates the Christmas season. Free admission.
Dec. 4-6 Thurs.-Sat.
Festival of Lights. 7:30pm. Mississippi College. Candlelight procession begins and ends this program of carols and hymns by the college choirs and band, with scripture lessons by guest readers. Tickets at the door $10 adults, student prices available. Call 601-925-9440.
December 5 Friday
Old Jackson Christmas by Candlelight Tour. 5-8pm. This popular annual event features traditional seasonal decorations at the Manship House Museum, Governor’s Mansion and the State Capitol. Free transportation & special entertainment at each site. Call 601-961-4724 or email manship@mdah.state.ms.us.
Dec. 5 & 6 Fri. & Sat.
Belhaven Singing Christmas Tree. 7:30pm, Soccer Bowl, Belhaven College Campus. A Belhaven tradition since 1933, the Singing Christmas Tree is an outdoor choral performance of the season's favorite Christmas carols. Come early and bring your blankets and lawn chairs for this celebration of the season. Free. Call 601-956-7026.
December 5-7 Fri.-Sun.
Ballet Mississippi’s The Nutcracker. 7:30pm Fri; 2 & 7:30pm Sat; 2pm Sun. Thalia Mara Hall. Ballet Mississippi presents this Christmas classic. A children’s Sugar Plum Tea Party follows Sunday afternoon performance. Tickets $10-$20. Call 601-960-1560 or visit www.balletms.com.
Dec. 5-7 Fri.-Sun.
Chimneyville Crafts Festival. Preview Party Fri. 7-10pm; Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 12-5pm. MS Trade Mart, Jackson. Sponsored by the Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi. Admission $8 adults, children under 12, free. Call 601-981-0019 or visit www.mscraftsmensguild.org.
Dec. 5-7 Fri.-Sun.
Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet's The Nutcracker. The Madison Square Center for the Arts. The Tea Parties, favorites among area residents, are slightly shortened versions of the famous holiday ballet and offer delicious treats, cast greetings and photos, silent auctions, door prizes, gift shop and more! Visit www.msmetroballet.com or call 601-853-
4508.
December 5-23
Christmas at the Governor’s Mansion, Jackson. The historic section of the Governor’s Mansion features traditional holiday decorations using seasonal greenery and fruit. Free guided tours are offered Tues.-Fri., 9:30 to 11am on the half-hour. Reservations must be made in advance for groups of ten or more. The Governor’s Mansion will be closed Dec. 24 through Jan. 1, 2009. The Mansion may be closed at other times during the month for official state functions. For more information call 601-359-6421.
December 5-23
Christmas at the Manship House Museum. 9am-4pm, Tues.-Fri.; 10am-4pm, Sat. Daily tours feature Victorian-style Christmas decorations. Reservations required for groups of ten or more. Free admission. Call 601-961-4724 or email manship@mdah.state.ms.us.
December 6 Saturday
Nutcracker Ballet by the Moscow Ballet Company. Meridian, Temple Theatre. Dec 6.
Tickets 601-934-1033.
December 6 Saturday
Vicksburg Christmas Parade of Lights. 5pm. Downtown Vicksburg. With thousands of twinkling lights on more than 50 parade floats, this annual display is the perfect way to get the holiday season off to a magical start. Parade route follows Washington Street between Belmont and China, begins at 5pm. For more information, contact: Rosalie Theobald, 601-634-4527.
December 6 Saturday
Christmas in Our Town Parade. Ridgeland. Viewable from Old Trace Park, it starts at 6 pm.
December 6 Saturday
Jackson Christmas Parade. 10am, Downtown Jackson. For more information call 601-960-1084.
December 6 Saturday
Clinton Christmas Parade. 6pm. Clinton.
December 6 Saturday
Christmas for the Birds. Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, Jackson. Participants of all ages will learn how to create natural ornaments that will help feed the birds during the winter months. Pre-registration required. Free with Museum admission. Call 601-354-7303 for details.
December 7 Sunday
Sugarplum Fairy Tea Party 12pm-1:30pm. The Mississippi Museum of Arts - Grand Hall. Held before the Sunday Matinee performance of the quintessential holiday classic, The Nutcracker. The children will have the opportunity to meet the cast during a seated tea party style lunch and get their souvenir posters signed. Price: $25 per person (includes: lunch, souvenir ornament and admittance to the exclusive autography signing session of the souvenir poster). Call 601-960-1560 or visit www.balletms.com.
December 7 Sunday
Christmas Concert the Mississippi Girlchoir. 2:30pm, Galloway Memorial UMC, Jackson.
December 8 Monday
St. Nicholas Day Craft Workshop. 3:30-4:30pm, Manship House Museum. Children will learn about and make a Victorian Christmas craft. Free for ages 5-12. Reservations call 601-961-4724 or email manship@mdah.state.ms.us.
Dec. 8, 12, 15
Homeschool Workshops. 10am-2pm. Memphis Zoo. $25/member, $35/non-members, $5 off if parent assists. Pre-registration required one week prior to start date. Shivers and Schools: Never swim alone is a good rule of thumb not only for humans. Dec. 8 Prek/K, 1st-2nd grades. Dec.12 1st - 2nd, 3rd -4th grades. Dec. 15 3rd-4th, 5th-7th grades. Call 901-276-WILD or visit www.memphiszoo.org.
December 11-31
Christmas in the Park. 5:30-8:30pm. Winners’ Circle Park, Flowood. “Grand Lighting of the Park” on Dec. 11. Christmas Winter Wonderland providing a beautiful holiday experience runs through the month of Dec. Santa and the Train will be at the park on Dec. 12-13, 19-20, and 22-23. Call 601-992-4440.
December 11-13 Thurs.-Sat.
Third Annual Christmas Fest. 5-8pm. MS Agricultural & Forestry Museum, Jackson. There will be a wonderful collection of local church and school choirs performing, an interactive Living Nativity. Santa will let your child whisper into his ear while you snap the photo. Your children can ride the trackless train, experience the Fondren Express Trolley and view the lighted miniature village. Giveaways like glow bracelets and coloring books, will let your child leave with a small token. Free and open at all. For information, please call 601-366-0901.
December 12 Friday
American Lung Association of Mississippi’s 3rd Annual Christmas Social. 6:30-9:30pm. Northpointe Red Barn, 201 Northpointe Parkway. Heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, silent auction, live music. Tickets $35 each. Call 601-206-5810.
December 12 Saturday
Floating Christmas Parade. 6pm. Ridgeland Recreation & Parks Department hosts its inaugural Boat Christmas Parade at the Ross Barnett Reservoir. Best viewed from Old Trace Park. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Free.
Dec. 12-14 Fri-Sun.
Jenny Saint Joan. Vicksburg Theatre Guild. Fri. & Sat. 7:30pm; Sun. 2pm.Vicksburg Parkside Playhouse, 101 Iowa Ave. Joan of Arc is depicted as normal adolescent facing tough choices about her future. Young Jenny is torn between the two men in her life: the peasant Colin who offers her love and the playful Archangel Michael who offers her glory as the savior of France. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 senior citizens (55 & older), $7 students (13 & older), $5 children (12 & younger). Call 601-636-0471, www.e-vtg.com.
December 12-14 Fri-Sun
Carols by Candlelight. 7pm Fri., 3:30 & 7pm Sat. & Sun. First Baptist Church, Jackson. Tickets are free and are available online at www.fbcj.org or by telephone at 1-800-965-9324.
December 13 Saturday
Nature Made Christmas. Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, Jackson. Participants of all ages will make fun ornaments using natural objects. Pre-registration required. Free with Museum admission. Call 601-354-7303 for details.
December 14 Sunday
Christmas at the Old Court House. 5:30pm. Vicksburg. Courtroom. Music and food, free to public, a tradition not to be missed!
Dec. 19-21 Fri.-Sun.
Ballet Magnificat’s “A Christmas Dream.” 7pm Fri., Sat., 2pm Sun. Thalia Mara Hall. A new ballet set in the Old South to the music of The Nutcracker. Call 601-977-1001 or www.balletmagnificat.com.
December 31 & January 1
New Year's Eve Zoo Snooze. 6:30pm-10am.Memphis Zoo. Call 901-276-WILD or visit www.memphiszoo.org.
Upcoming Events
February 8, 2009
Coming to Christ United Methodist Church, Jackson. 1-5pm. John Rosemond, the nationally-syndicated parenting column writer. For more information call 601-956-6974, or visit www.christunitedjxn.org, or www.rosemond.com.
Exhibits and Ongoing Events
The Children's Museum of Memphis. Open 9am-5pm, Mon.-Sat., and 12-5pm, Sun. 2525 Central Avenue, Memphis. A discovery museum for children, families and educators, designed to complement the school curriculum and encourage the curiosity and imagination of children through interactive programs and hands-on exhibits. Admission: $7 children (1-12) and senior citizens (65+), $8 adults (13-64), and
free for museum members and children under one. Call 901-458-2678 or 901-320-3170. For a complete list of activities and coupons visit www.cmom.com.
Clinton Community Nature Center. 617 Dunton Road, Clinton Trails (non-paved) open daily 7am until sunset. Price Hall opens 9am-5pm, Mon.-Fri. and 1-5pm, Sat.-Sun. Stroll trails and see the butterfly garden, amphitheater, famous elephant tree, & gift shop and more. We offer field trips for school & home school groups. No food, pets, or smoking please. Register for Day Camps. Call 601-926-1104, or visit www.clintonnaturecenter.org.
Eudora Welty House Museum. The museum will be shown by reservation Wed.-Fri. 9am, 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. 1119 Pinehurst, Jackson. Admission $5 adults, $3 students, and children under six free. Group discounts available. Call 601-353-7762.
"Draw Near" Ladies Fellowship. First Baptist Church of Fannin (at the Reservoir).
Tues. 9am. Ladies of all ages are invited to join us for breakfast, Bible study,
mission/outreach opportunities. Childcare is available free of charge upon reservation. For information call Leigh-Anne Ainsworth 601-829-2350, 601-540-7282 or the church office 601-829-1004.
The Florence-Richland Homeschool Group. A co-operative, support organization for families offering educational, recreational, and community ministry activities include weekly park days, spelling bees, holiday-themed parties, a yearbook staff, science fairs, talent shows, special events at a local nursing home, craft days, fieldtrips, and special activities for teenagers. All homeschooling families or those interested in educating at home are invited to participate. For more details, contact Elysa Harvey MacLellan at 601-845-3432 or jimelm@alltel.net.
Governor’s Mansion Tours. Tues.-Fri. 9:30, 10, 10:30 & 11am. 300 East Capitol Street. First occupied in 1842, the Mississippi Governor’s Mansion is the second-oldest continuously occupied governor’s residence in the United States. This Greek Revival structure was designed by state architect William Nichols, who also designed the Old Capitol. The Mansion was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1975. Free. Reservations are required for groups of ten or more. Call 601-359-6421, www.mdah.state.ms.us.
Jackson Audubon Society Family Bird Walk. 8-10am, first Sat., monthly, except Dec. & Jan. Each walk led by an experienced JAS member. Look and listen for birds along the nature trails. Binoculars available for loan, call to reserve a pair. Children accompanied by adults welcome. $3 park admission. Call 601-956-7444 or visit website www.dreamwater.org/jxnaudubon.
The Jackson Zoo. 9am-5pm. Admission: Friends of the Zoo free; children under 2 free; child 2-12 $3; adult 13+ $6; senior 65+ $5.40. Groups with 15 or more contact 601-352-2586 for special rates and reservations. Parking, Rides train, & Carousel $2 each. Strollers from $4-8. Call 601-352-2581.
The Little Light House. Volunteers needed. Tuition-free Christian Developmental Center for children age birth to six with special needs and developmental delays. Volunteer opportunities available, assist teachers with helping children in circle time, snack, lunch, and interacting one-on-one with the children in a supervised setting. Call 601-829-3446, or visit online to www.llhms.org.
Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. One of the USA's top 50 children's museums is situated on six oak-filled acres in a renovated 1915 school. Visitors can cross a creek, touch a tornado, sort shrimp, crank a crane, tromp in treehouses and much more. Tue-Sat 10am-5pm. Admission $7. Call 228-897-6039 visit www.lmdc.org.
Manship House Museum. 9am-4pm, Tues.-Fri., 10am-4pm, Sat., 420 East Fortification St., Jackson. Free. Reservations required for groups of 10 or more. 601-961-4724.
The Memphis Zoo. Hours March-Oct. 9am-6pm. Nov.-Feb.9am-5pm. 2000 Prentiss Place, Memphis. Admission price includes entrance to all exhibits, including giant pandas. $13 Adults (ages 12-59); $12 seniors (ages 60+); $8 children (ages 2-11); Children under age 2 admitted free. Parking $3 per vehicle / Memphis Zoo Members park free. Just to name a few of the zoo’s events, Saturday Zoo School for Preschool Students, Saturday Trekkers, & Homeschool workshops. Call 901-276-WILD or visit www.memphiszoo.org for a complete list of the Zoo’s events.
Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum. 9am-5pm Mon.-Sat., 1150 Lakeland Dr. Walk through, learn about and enjoy the rich past and tradition that make Mississippi. 601-713-3365 or 1-800-844-8687, www.MDAC.State.ms.us.
Mississippi Museum of Art. 10am-5pm Mon.-Sat., 12-5pm Sun. 380 South Lamar Street. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 ages 6 through college age, under 5 and MMA members free. Students are free on Trustmark Free Tuesdays and BlueCross Free Thursdays. Seniors 60+ free on BancorpSouth Senior Salute Mondays-first Mon. of each month.
Visit www.msmuseumart.org.
Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. 8am-5pm Mon.-Fri.; 9am-5pm Sat.; 1-5pm Sun. LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. Admission to park and museum $5 adults, $4 seniors, and $3 children. Membership $35 individual or $65 family. 601-354-7303.
Current Exhibits:
Fish Feedings. 10am, every Tues. and Fri.
Creature Features. 10am & 2pm, almost every Sat. Informal live or mounted animal programs.
Miss. Museum of Natural Science Lecture Series. 12-1pm, Rotwein Theater, First Tues. monthly. Free to Museum Foundation Members (please show card). Regular museum fee: $5 adults; $4 for seniors; $3 children.
Preschool Discovery Room. General Museum visitors: 1-4pm Mon.-Fri; 9:30am-12pm & 1-4pm Sat; 1-4pm Sun. Hands-on discovery room designed for ages 3-pre K5 is open to general museum visitors. Topic for Group Classes varies. November topic “Legs! Who Needs Them!” Open when a staff member or volunteer is available and schedule subject to change. Thirty minute classes are designed for groups of 10-16 children; class times are 9, 9:45, & 10:30am Mon.-Fri. Call Joan Elder for reservations, 601-351-7303 ext. 136.
Time for Twos. 1-4pm, second Tues. monthly. Preschool Discovery Room reserved for 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Reservations not required.
Story Time. 1:15, 2:15, and 3:15pm Wed. for children ages 3-5. Call Joan Elder, Preschool Coordinator, for details.
Mississippi Olde Time Music Society Jam Session. Clinton Visitor’s Center, 1300 Pinehaven Rd. Just off Natchez Trace Parkway milepost 89. First Sunday of every month.
Free. 601-924-2221.
Mississippi Petrified Forest. US Hwy 49 at Hwy 22, Flora. Open every day except Christmas. Earth Science Museum, nature trail, rock patio, picnic area, campgrounds and more. Adults $5, seniors & students $4, group rate available. Call 601-879-8189 or visit www.mspetrifiedforest.com.
Museum of Mississippi History Traveling Exhibits Program.
Due to the closure of the Old Capitol Museum, the museum division of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History has revamped its traveling exhibits program. Seven exhibits are available at this time, with several in development. For more information call 601-576-6927.
National Scrabble Association Club #427. 11am. First & third Sat. monthly. South Hills Library, 515 West McDowell Rd., Jackson. Ages youth to senior adults. Call Juanita Washington, 662-746-6670; Danny Gatlin, 601-371-0096; or Gloria Scott, 601-355-6621.
New Stage Theatre. Reservations for its upcoming season of touring productions. These shows tour to elementary, middle and high schools as well as libraries and community centers. If interested in scheduling New Stage at your venue or for more information, please contact the Education Department at 601-948-3533, ext. 232 or
education@newstagetheatre.com.
Russell C. Davis Planetarium. 11am-5pm Tue.-Fri.; 7pm-10pm Fri.-Sat.; 12pm-5pm Sat.; 1pm-5pm Sun. Downtown Jackson. Ticket prices are as follows: Feature Films $6.50 Adults; $5.50 Seniors; $4 Children; Sky Shows $5.50 Adults; $4.50 Seniors; $3 Children; Space Science Exhibit FREE; Holiday Laser Show $6.50 Adults; $5.50 Seniors; $4 Children. Association of Science and Technology Centers membership privileges are accepted. Special Promotions: 25% discount on ticket prices for groups of 25 or more; 20% discount on individual ticket prices when 2 or more shows are purchased on the same day; 20% discount on gift shop purchases for educators - must show school ID. Facility Rental: Private birthday parties, screening parties, and other special occasions are scheduled by reservation only. Call 601-960-1552.
Smith Robertson Museum & Culture Center, Jackson. Visit the permanent exhibits to learn more about black history. Mon.-Fri., 9am-5pm; Sat., 10am-1pm; Sun., 2-5pm. Admission: $4.50 adults, $1.50 children, $3 for seniors. For more information 601-960-1457.
Weekend Crafts Demonstrations. Saturdays. Mississippi craftsmen and artisans demonstrate their talents free to the public at the Chimneyville Crafts Gallery, Miss. Ag. & Forestry Museum. 601-981-2499. Also 10am-4:30pm Sat. and Sun. at the Miss. Crafts Center on the Natchez Trace in Ridgeland. 601-856-7546.
Sports
YMCA Sports Programs. Contact your local Y for details.
Jackson City Sports Programs. Jackson Dept. of Parks & Recreation for details contact Sam Miller 601-960-0471.
Clinton Parks & Recreation. Registration for variety of sports programs. Call 601-924-6082 or 601-925-1386 or visit www.clintonpartsandrec.com.
MYRC Basketball. Registration Oct.-Nov. Ridgeland Recreation & Parks Office, Ridgeland City Hall or Madison Parks & Recreation.
Dance Instruction
Ballet Magnificat! School of the Arts. Classes in ballet and jazz. Ages 3-adult. Call 601-977-1001 or visit www.balletmagnificat.com.
Dance Program, Jackson Parks & Recreation. Classes at Champion Dance Center and Grove Park Comm. Center. Ballet, jazz, hip-hop, alternative dance. 601-960-1422 or 601-960-1807.
Fencing
Fencing Club. Ridgeland Recreation Center. Develop agility, strength, speed and cunning. Introductory and beginner classes at Ridgeland High School. Call David Williams 601-853-2027.
Martial Arts
Academy of Kung Fu. Ridgeland Recreation Center. Ongoing classes for ages 4-adult. $45. Call Trey Crake 601-856-5051 or visit www.academyofkungfu.com.
Karate. Children and adults. Visit www.jacksony.org or call 1-55 Y 601-948-3090; Reservoir Y 601-992-9118.
Jason Griffin TaeKwonDo Academy
Two locations in town-Brandon and Ridgeland. Serving the area for over 10 years! Classes available for ages 4-60. Call 601-977-9000 for more information! www.griffinstkd.com.
Martial Arts. Judo with Dave Melton, Grove Park Community Center and Karate with Robert Lyles, Champion Gymnasium. Call Jackson Parks & Rec., 601-960-7407.
TaeKwondo. 10am-12pm, Saturdays, First Baptist Church, Jackson. Family Life Center. Free, except for uniform and belts. Call Glenn Odom, 601-961-5159.
Running
Mississippi Track Club. Walk or run your way into shape this year with the help of the family-friendly Miss. Track Club. 601-856-9884 or www.mstrackclub.com.
Swimming
Courthouse Pool Parties. Book your next party in our indoor heated pool at Lakeland! Our other three locations are available during the summer months. 601-932-4800.
Makos Swim Team. Year-round competition swim team. Practices at Courthouse Racquet Club in Flowood and Madison, Baptist Healthplex in Clinton, and Simpson County Athletic Club. 601-932-4800 or www.msmakos.org.
Maley Swim School. Year-round lessons in indoor pool include Waterbabies, Beginner through Advanced Strokes and Adults. Available for birthday parties. 601-898-7946.
Swimming Lessons. Health Line Wellness Center at St. Dominic's offers group and individual swim lessons for children ages 3-12. Indoor heated pool and state-of-the-art facilities. Call 601-200-4925.
Sunkist Swim Team. Year round competition swim team. Ages 5-18 Practices daily at new indoor Flowood YMCA pool, 690 Liberty Road and Clinton YMCA pool. Call 601-664-6814 or e-mail Sunkistcoach@yahoo.com.
YMCA Swim Lessons and Pool Rental. Available year-round at Flowood Family Y, 601-664-1955 and the Downtown Y, 601-948-3090. Summer lessons at Reservoir Y, 601-992-9118, and Clinton Y 601-924-5812. Call for information or visit www.jacksony.org.
Tennis
Jackson Parks & Recreation Tennis. Year-round tennis programs, ages 4-12 and adults for different levels, Battlefield Park. Team competitions available. 601-960-1388.
Parham Bridges Tennis Academy. Various programs for different levels. Call Megan, 601-956-1105.
Ridgeland Tennis Center Junior Program. Ages 7 and up. 601-853-1115.
YMCA Tennis Lessons. Ages 5 and up. Reservoir YMCA. 601-992-9118.
Support Groups & Classes
American Red Cross Classes. For information on classes and times call 601-353-5444 ext. 114.
Asthma Support Group for Children and their Parents. Central Miss. Medical Center. Free. 601-376-2376.
Baptist’s Nutrition Center offers “Way to Go Kids®” Weight Loss Program.
Way to Go Kids® is a four-week program designed to help overweight & under active kids build lifelong, healthy attitudes about food & fitness. New sessions begin the first Wednesday of each month from 3:45- 4:45pm. Pre-registration is required. For more information and cost, call 601-973-1624.
Brain Injury Support Group. 7pm, fourth Monday monthly, St. Dominic Hospital. For patients and families dealing with brain injuries. Free. 601-981-1021.
Cancer Support Group. 9am. Second Tues. of the month. St. Dominic’s Cancer Center. Free. Call 601-200-3070.
Car Seat Safety Class. 10am-12pm. Meets Monthly at Woman's Hospital, Classroom A. Free, but registration required. To register, call 601-933-6160.
Central Mississippi Autism Support Network. Support group meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month from 11:30am-1pm in the Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Community Room, 5 Old River Place, Suite 101, Jackson. Pam Dollar 601-594-9314.
Child Abuse Hotline. Anyone with cause to suspect abuse or neglect is required by law to report it, including lawyers, doctors, teachers and clergy. 800-222-8000.
Childbirth Classes.
St. Dominic Education Services. Call 601-200-6934. Woman’s Hospital. Call 601-933-6160.
Consumer Credit Counseling. Miss. Children’s Home Society, 1900 N. West St. Free budget counseling; debt management. For a small donation. Appointment only. 601-352-7784.
Diabetes Education & Support.
Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi. Offers care, services and compassion to children who are newly diagnosed with diabetes, as well as to their families. Contact 1-877-DFM-CURE or visit www.msdiabetes.org.
Baptist Medical Center. 10am, first Thurs. monthly. Free support group in Medical Arts West, Ste. 410. For more information or to register call the Baptist Health Line at 601-948-6262 or 1-800-948-6262.
River Oaks Hospital. 2-3pm. Meets every fourth Wed. Private Dining Room. Registration required. Call 601-936-1052. Free.
Rankin Medical Center. 10:30am, fourth Thurs. monthly, Fitness Plus. Free. 601-824-8445.
Central Mississippi Medical Center. 10-11am, third Tues. monthly, Diabetes Management Center classroom, third floor. Free. 601-376-2485.
St. Dominic Wound Center. Call 601-200-6718.
DivorceCare. Several area Baptist churches offer this video series combined with group discussion, which covers topics such as anger, loneliness, depression, new relationships, forgiveness, children, and more. Visit www.divorcecare.com to find a workshop near you.
Epilepsy /Seizures Disorders Education & First Aid. Epilepsy Foundation of Mississippi. Epilepsy Teen Support Group. Second Thurs. monthly 5pm, The Epilepsy Foundation of MS office, 2001 Airport Road, Suite 307 Jackson, call 601-936-5222 or 1-800-898-0291.
First There, First Care. Would you know what to do if you witness a crash? Many do not and either pass on by or become a victim themselves. This short class teaches how to spot a crash, how to stop safely, and how to give lifesaving help until help arrives. Classes offered by the Madison Fire Department. Call Lisa 601-856-8894 for class times and locations.
Fun and Friends Playgroup. 11am Mon., unless noted. Open to moms of children ages 0-4 yrs. Group membership is free, but pay admission if visiting places where charge is involved. Monthly Mom's Night Out for members. Call Kelly 601-924-6205, e-mail funandfriendsplaygroup@msn.com, or visit www.geocities.com/funandfriendsplaygroup.
Grief Support
St. Dominic Behavioral Health Assoc. /North Campus. Call 601-200-3110.
Compassionate Friends. 7pm, second Tues. monthly, Fondren Presbyterian Church. Support for families who have lost children. 601-713-4357.
Grief Support for Children. McClean Fletcher Center, 2624 Southerland Dr., Grief support center for children 601-982-4405.
Bereavement Education/Support Group. 12pm, first and third Thurs. monthly. Hospice Ministries, 450 Towne Center Blvd. Ridgeland. Open to any adult grieving the loss of someone loved. Free. 601-898-1053.
Coping with Terminal Illness. 6pm, last Thurs. of each month. McClean Fletcher Center, 2624 Southerland Dr. Ongoing education support group for children/adolescents and their families. 601-982-4405.
Hearts in Motion. 8:15am. Every Mon., Wed., & Fri. Food Court, Northpark Mall. Exercise class hosted by Baptist Heart Services in the Food Court. No registration required. For information call the Baptist Health Line 601-948-6262 or 1-800-948-6262.
Home Safety Hero. Madison Fire Department teaches a class to boys & girls on home safety. What to you do in an emergency, calling 911, tips on baby-sitting, what to do in bad weather, first aid tips, and how to make safer choices (seat belts, bike helmets). The kids are given a safety check list to complete and when they complete it, they get a prize! Class for children 9 and up call 601-856-8894.
Infant Loss Support Group. 7pm, first Tues. monthly. River Oak’s Hospital, Lobby Classroom. Open to family, grandparents, caregivers or anyone who has suffered the loss of an infant. Call Cathy Files with Mississippi SIDS Alliance, 877-471-7437 or 601-853-4306.
Jackson Astronomy Club. 7:30pm meets first Friday each month at Belhaven
College Student Union building in the upstairs theatre. The club has “stargazes" once per month and welcomes guests to the meeting. Call 601-857-2545 for details.
Joy of Order. 10am, third Sat. monthly (Except Dec.). Cerami’s Restaurant, Lakeland Drive, Flowood. Cost for brunch, seminar, and materials (including binder) is $25. Call 601-209-3776 or email susan@OrganizedYourWay.com for more details or visit www.OrganizedYourWay.com.
La Leche League. 6:30pm-8pm, second Thurs. monthly, Christ United Methodist Church, St. James Episcopal Church Youth House, 3908 Hawthorne. Morning and evening mother-to-mother support groups for pregnant women and breast-feeding mothers. Small children and nursing babies are welcome, 1-877-4-La-Leche for info, or call a local leader for breast-feeding help: Nancy 601-346-6211; Becky 601-853-6942; Elise 601-924-2370.
Learning Disability Association of Miss. Support for parents and professionals. 601-362-1667, ldams@bellsouth.net or www.ldams.org.
Mississippi Capitol Area Homeschoolers (MCAH). Support group for anyone involved in home education. The group is open to ALL homeschoolers/unschoolers as well as anyone interested in homeschooling/unschooling. No fee to join. Weekly play day, monthly field trips and other activities. Call Lynn Berthaut, 601-664-0372.
Mississippi Food Allergy Support Group. Meets every other month. The group
follows the guidelines of the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN).
Our Medical Sponsor is a Board Certified Pediatric Allergist. For more
information, call 601-573-7072 or email msallergysupport@aol.com.
Mississippi Sickle Cell Foundation Parent Support Group. Meetings held in May, July, & Sept. on the fourth Sat. at 11am in the Blair Batson’s Children’s Cancer Conference Room, 2500 N. State St., Jackson. Kris Roberts 601-984-2707.
Mississippi Moms Connection. Visit www.mississippi-moms.com. Forums currently include: pregnancy; the stay-at-home moms group; the Dual Duty Moms (that work full time and are full time moms); the infant, toddler, school age, and teen sections; The Yum Yum room (covering topics such as breastfeeding and cooking); North, Central and South Mississippi Groups. Topics cover a wide spectrum for mom to find the guidance and support she needs. Site is completely secure; a person must be a registered user to have access to the forums and member lists. Our Administrator and Moderators thoroughly keep tabs on what's going on to keep the website a safe and fun place to hang out online.
MOMS Club ®. An international, non-profit organization in support of stay-at-home moms. Offers playgroups, fieldtrips, MOMS Night Out, and more. If you live in Madison County e-mail momsclubofmadisonms@yahoo.com.
Moms in Motion. Mon. & Wed. at 5:30pm. Health Line Wellness Center, St. Dominic, offers a structured water fitness class that helps maintain cardio, respiratory and muscular fitness throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period. Must be at least 12 weeks into pregnancy and have a signed medical release from physician. Cost $50 per month or free for mothers delivering at St. Dominic’s. Call 601-200-4925 for details.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 9-11:30am second Mon. monthly. Crossgates Baptist Church, Brandon. MOPS is an international organization that exists to encourage and equip mothers who have children under age six. Childcare is provided while moms enjoy a speaker, small group discussion, and a creative activity. Suggested donation is $5. For more information and to reserve childcare, please call Jo Hebert, 601-919-8867 or Kathy Scholl, 601-825-3255.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 9-11am. The last Tues. of the month at Pinelake Church. MOPS is an international organization that exists to encourage and equip mothers who have children under age six. Childcare is available with registration. Brandye 601-955-9673, e-mail joeybrandye@bellsouth.net, or www.freewebs.com/pinelakemops.
Mothers Morning Out. Lakeland Presbyterian Church 5212 Lakeland Dr. Openings. Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9am-12noon. You may come one or the other day or both days. Ages 6 months - 4 years. One time registration for both days is $95 and $95 tuition per month; registration for one day is $60 and tuition is $45 per month. Registration form is on-line at lakelandpres.com. For more information contact Betty Hale at 601-503-4606 or the church office at 601-992-2448.
Parenting Classes. Center for Violence Prevention, Rankin County Human Resource Agency. 601-825-1309.
Parenting Support. 5:30-6:30pm each Thurs., Mt. Elam M.B. Church, 701 Old Whitfield Rd, Pearl, MS. Offered by West Jackson CDC Parent Training Center. Free parenting/healthy relationship classes and fatherhood classes. An on-site mobile library is also available for participants. Refreshments are served at each session. For more
information call 601-352-6993.
Pet Safety and First Aid. This class gives you tips on what to keep on hand in case your pet becomes ill or injured. Class offer by the Madison Fire Department. Call Lisa 601-856-8894 for class times and locations.
REJOICE. Support group for young mothers. First Baptist Church, Jackson. Meets during the school year Aug.-May. Call 601-949-1949 for brochure.
Reservoir Area Christian Home Educators. 7-9pm, first Thurs. monthly. All homeschoolers welcome, not just those in the Reservoir area. 601-992-8768.
Resource Center Network. Pearl. Services include a 24-hour crisis and referral line to assist immediate needs, a home-like temporary shelter, counseling, workshops, and daycare 601-932-4198 or visit www.rcnms.org.
Teen Parent Support Class. West Jackson CDC Parent Training Center, 2485 West Capitol. Improve parenting skills and meet new friends. Consultant available.
Saturdays 10am. 601-969-7232.
Tourette Syndrome Association. Mid South Office-Mississippi. Contact Sonia Bartosek at sonia_mstsa@bellsouth.net or 601-366-1766 or www.tsa-usa.org.
West Jackson CDC - Hinds County Families First Resource Center. 1060 J. R. Lynch Street, Jackson. Offering the following: free parenting classes, healthy marriage classes, fatherhood training, teen parent/teen issue classes, and abstinence workshops. There is also a walk-in resource library on site. For more information on setting up classes or workshops at your site, please call 601-352-6993.
West Nile Virus Support Group. 1pm. St. Dominic’s Behavioral Health Associates/North Campus. Last Fri. of each month. Free. Call 601-200-3110.
Reading
Canton Library. Baby Bookworms-age 2, Wed. 10am; Risin’ Readers-age 3, Tues. 9:30am; Risin’ Readers-age 4, Tues. 10:30am; Risin’ Readers-age 5, Wed. 11am.
Flowood Library. Preschool Story Times. 10:30am. Wed, & Thurs. for children ages 3-6. Mother Goose Lapsit. 9:30 & 10:30am. Mon. mornings and 3:30pm. Thurs. afternoons for ages birth-3 years.
Lemuria Bookstore Storytime. Saturdays 10-11am. Join us in Oz, the children’s section of Lemuria, for children’s books read by “The Story Lady.” Ages 2-10.
Madison Library. Risin’ Readers-ages 3-5, Tues. 10am; Baby Bookworms-ages 1-2, Wed. 10am & 10:45am.
Neighborhood Christian Centers of Jackson. Offers free after school tutoring at the following locations:
Ash Street Center, 417 W. Ash Street.
Mon.- Fri., 2:30-5:30pm, K-12th grade
First Presbyterian Church, 1390 North State Street.
Tues., 5-6pm, K-5th grade
Mission First (First Baptist Church), 275 Roseneath Street.
Mon.-Thur., 3:30-4:30pm, K-12th grade
Redeemer Church, PCA, 640 Northside Drive.
Wed., 4-5:45pm, K-12th grade
To sign up for any of these locations, please register at our Ash Street location or contact Mrs. Johnnie Bruce, Tutoring Director at 601-354-8855 or 601-366-0040. For more information visit: www.nccjackson.com.
Parent/Baby Reading Classes. Baby Achieve offers fun-filled classes designed todemonstrate hands-on reading activities that parents can perform in class and at home with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers that will lead them to read early. Morning or afternoon classes are available. Call to schedule one month of free classes through our special promotional offer 601-672-5407.
Pearl Public Library Children Events. Baby Bookworms, ages 3 & under, Tues. 9:30am. Preschool Story Time, ages 3-6, Tues. 10:30am. Pearl Peanuts, ages 6-12, third Wed. 4pm. Family Story Time, all ages, first Thurs. 6:30pm. Teens, ages 13 & up, second Thurs. 6pm. 601-932-2562.
Ridgeland Library. Rising Readers, ages 3-5, Tues. 3:30pm. Baby Bookworms, ages 1-2, Thurs. 10:30am. Teen Advisory Board/RPL Anime Club. For information call Jennifer Finch 601-856-4536 or e-mail jfinch@mad.lib.ms.us.
Yellow Dog Books Story Time. Wed. & Sat., 10am. 100 Depot Drive, Madison. For toddlers and up. Each story time will usually include a crafts activity. For information call 601-605-8955.
Classes for Kids
Academy of Fine Arts. Classes in various performing arts provided for students of all ages: guitar, piano, violin, ballet, percussion, vocal classes and show choirs. Call FBC Music Ministry, 601-825-6768.
Babysitting. Supersitters with CPR Training. Baptist Medical Center. Babysitting for teens 11-16 with information on developmental stages, feedings, and safety. Meets quarterly. Call 601-948-1712 to pre-register.
Childcare & Babysitting Safety. 8am-3pm, St. Dominic. Call 601-200-4925 for dates. Babysitter’s Training. American Red Cross, 875 Riverside Dr. Call 601-353-5444 x114. Flowood Family YMCA, ages 11-15, cost $45. Call for dates 601-664-1955.
Drama & Acting Instruction for Children & Youth. Reveillon Lodge (Site of St. Michael and All Angels' Anglican Church) between Raymond and Byram. Private coaching in acting, Shakespeare, role interpretation, auditions, public speaking and stage movement. Instructor has Master's Degree. Call 601-857-2545 for details.
Girl Scout Equestrian Troop 672. "The Horse Troop" accepts girls ages 6 to 15
for membership. We are a full service Girl Scout troop with a focus on horse
care, riding skills (English and western) and equine safety. Horse ownership
or previous riding experience not required. Certified instructor, meetings once
a month. Handicapped riders welcome. Call 601-857 2545 for information.
KidzArt Handmade Gifts Art Workshop. Your child will make extremely awesome gifts for mom, dad, relatives and friends that they will keep forever. All projects are one-of-a-kind artistic creations. Classes are offered in Madison, Rankin, and Hinds counties at the beginning of the Thanksgiving holiday. Call 601-607-6019 for days, times, and specific locations. Space is limited.
Lifeguard Training. Lakeland Courthouse. $185 fee includes Lifesaving, CPR, First Aid, and AED. Call Kandy 601-932-4800 to register.
Sibling Classes. Young children are given insight into their new role as big brother or sister, and introduced to the paraphernalia of baby care in special classes taught at hospitals where babies are delivered. Call your local hospital for more information.
St. Dominic Education Services. Last Sat. monthly, 10-11am. 601-200-6934. Free.
Woman’s Hospital and River Oaks Hospital. Bring a doll or stuffed animal. Free. For dates call 601-933-6160.
Youth United Way Student Volunteer Program. Encourages and provides
opportunities for community service to students in public, private, and parochial schools, ages 13-24, in Hinds, Madison, and Rankin counties throughout the year. 601-965-1355 or www.myunitedway.com.
Health and Safety
CPR for Infants & Children.
Woman’s Hospital. Activity Room. AHA book included. Call to register 601-933-6160.
American Red Cross. Adult, child and infant CPR & First Aid. Pre-registration required. 601-353-5444 ext. 114 for dates.
St. Dominic Education Services. Call for dates 601-200-4925.
Car Seat Inspections. Madison Fire Department, Old Canton Rd or Hwy. 463, Madison. Come by and let us show you how to install your car seat correctly. Don't take chances with your child's safety.
Hearing and Speech. If you suspect a hearing loss or a speech/language problem, call Magnolia Speech School for an evaluation. 601-922-5530.
Infant Seat Safety Check. St. Dominic’s Medical Mall. MS Safe Kids technicians available to show how to properly install child’s car seat. Free. Call for dates 601-200-6934. Woman’s Hospital, Classroom A, 10am-12pm meets monthly, to register call 601-933-6160.
