Through September
Preschool Discovery Room Topic – “Me? A Terrible Lizard?” Class times are 9am, 9:45am and 10:30am Mon-Fri, Miss. Museum of Science, 2148 Riverside Drive, Jackson. Thirty minute classes are designed for educational groups of 10-16 children. Call Joan Elder for reservations 601-354-7303 ext. 136. Visit http://museum.mdwfp.com for more information.

September 2 Thursday
Fondren After 5. 5pm-8pm, Historic Fondren District, Fondren. Visit Fondren the first Thursday of every month for the wildly popular Fondren After 5. Find that perfect, unique gift at your favorite Fondren store or dine in one of Fondren's great restaurants. For more information, call 601-981-9606 or visit www.fondren.org.

September 6 Monday
Labor Day.

September 7, 14, 21 & 28
4-Day Portrait Drawing Workshop. 6pm-9pm, Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation, 1302 Adams Street, Vicksburg. Jerrod will guide students through the basics of portrait drawing through a 4-day workshop. Registration is $180/SCHF members and $190/non-members and includes basic supplies. Space is limited to twelve and reservations are required. For more information, please contact the SCHF office at 601-631-2997 or email info@southernculture.org.

September 9 Thursday
Back-to-School Open House for the Rankin County School District. 5pm-7pm, Old Brandon Middle School, 200 School Road, Brandon. The Rankin County School District would like to invite all parents and community members to this Back-to School Open House for the RCSD Family Resource Center. Free admission. Call 601-825-6577 for more information.

September 9 Thursday
Semi-Annual ReACHE Wide Meeting. 6pm-8pm, Flowood Library, 103 Winners Circle, Flowood. We will have the enrollment officer for Rankin County available at this meeting for those needing to fill out the 2010-2011 enrollment form for their children. If you would like more information you can contact Jennifer Alford @ cjhmanda@gmail.com, Public Relations Director.

September 10-12
CelticFest Mississippi 2010. Fri., 7pm; Sat., 10am-midnight; Sun., 10:30am-6pm, Miss. Ag and Forestry Museum, 1150 Lakeland Drive, Jackson. CelticFest Mississippi 2010, Celtic Heritage Society’s 19th annual weekend of cultural celebration is almost here! It’s a packed weekend of Celtic music, dance, and fun not to be missed. Admission is $12 for an adult Weekend Pass, $8 for seniors and students, $5 for children ages 5-17, and $1 for children under four. Call 601-713-3365 for more information.

September 11 Saturday
Art by Choice Public Sale. 2pm-7pm, Mississippi Museum of Art, 380 South Lamar Street, Jackson. Don't miss the last chance to buy the art from the Art by Choice exhibition! Benefiting the Museum, art at a variety of price points will be available to purchase. Choose from artworks by artists associated with Mississippi as well as works from galleries in New York, Boston, Memphis, and New Orleans. Call 601-960-1515, 1-866-VIEW-ART or visit www.msmuseumart.org for more information.

September 11 Saturday
Grandparents Day Festival. 9am-1pm, Rosa Scott School, 200 Crawford Street, Madison. There will be art/craft booths, a Mozart booth, space jumps and refreshments. Admission is free, there will be fees for various activities. Call Ian MacDonald at 601-987-0020.

September 11-12 & 18-19
Vicksburg Theatre Guild auditions: “An English Heaven & Is There Honey Still?” Sept. 11, 12 & 18 at 2pm; Sept. 19 at 7pm, Vicksburg Parkside Playhouse, 101 Iowa Ave. During World War I, women vent their problems and emotions with each other while coping with their husbands, sons and brothers fighting on foreign soil. Later, while “over there,” the Nurses and VADS near the front see the worst of the war and have to cope with the aftermath with great courage. Cast: six-to-nine women (ages 15-60), two men, and one boy. Production dates: Fri.-Sun. Nov. 12-14 & 19-21, 2010. Call 601-636-0471, www.e-vtg.com

September 11 Saturday
YMCA Kids 4 Kids Marathon. 8am, Northeast Jackson YMCA, 5062 I-55 North, Jackson. For children up to 12 years old. Laps will be completed in the parking lot of the Northeast Jackson YMCA with one lap equaling one “mile”. Participants may stop at any time they choose or after completing 26 “miles” (approximately 3.9 miles). Pre-register only, there will be no registration the day of the event. Registration will be cut off on Saturday, Sept. 4. Entry fees are $10 registration fee, $100 minimum fund-raising. All proceeds go directly to the YMCA’s Partnership for Youth Campaign which provides financial assistance to those in our community who need, but cannot afford, the hundreds of programs and services provided by the YMCA. Call 601-709-3760 or visit www.metroymcams.org for more information.

September 13 Monday
Mommy and Me Sign Language Class (3 week class). 11am, St. Dominic’s Hospital, 969 Lakeland Drive, Jackson. Learn how to teach your baby sign language before they can speak! Cost is $80. Receive $10 off if you refer a friend! Call 601-487-8176 or visit www.signingwithtots.com for more information.

September 13 Monday
Us Too Support Group Meeting. 5:30pm, Hederman Cancer Center, Baptist Health Systems, 1227 North State Street, Jackson. In this support group for men with prostate cancer, you and your loved ones can gain encouragement and ideas from others who are sharing your experiences. Genetic testing for prostate cancer will be part of the discussion. Online registration is not available. To register, call 601-948-6262.

September 14 Tuesday
PET Scans and Your Heart. 11:45am, Baptist Madison Campus, Community Room, 401 Baptist Drive, Madison. PET scans offer detailed images of your body’s internal structures in less than half the time required by traditional tests. How do cardiologists use this technology to improve care for people with heart concerns? Find out with Alfredo Figueroa, MD, as he discusses cardiac PET scanning. Lunch provided. Call the Baptist Health Line to register at 601-948-6262, 800-948-6262 or online at www.mbhs.org/classes.

September 14 Tuesday
Think Pink (People In Need of Knowledge) All Year Long! 11:45am, Baptist for Women Conference Center, 1225 North State Street, Jackson. Breast care is a highly specialized medical field. More than breast cancer, it involves care for a number of benign breast conditions and diseases that, if correctly diagnosed, are relatively easy to treat and keep under control. Learn how to take care of yourself at this panel discussion. Panel speakers: Donna Lustig, Breast Health Center Manager; radiologist James Burkhalter, M.D.; surgeon Russell Rooks, M.D.; and surgeon Jason Murphy, M.D. Cost is $5 for optional lunch. Call 601-968-1000 or visit www.mbhs.org for more information.

September 16 Thursday
2010 Centennial Arts Gala. Doors open at 7pm, show begins at 7:30pm, Lake Terrace Convention Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, Hattiesburg. A spectacular vision from the award-winning creators of the Atlantis and Shangri-La Galas as well as the 2009 Arts Gala, “Gold” promises to be one of the single largest fundraising events in South Mississippi, with the combined talents of more than 500 performers taking guests on an extraordinary journey through the decades. Tickets are $100 each. Call 601-266-5922 or visit www.usm.edu for more information.

September 17 Friday
Clinton Cheer Academy Kidz Night. 5:30pm-10:30pm, Clinton Cheer Academy, 1261 Springridge Road, Clinton. Pizza, drinks, music, blacklight games, and tons of fun! For more information call 601-923-0998 or visit our website at www.clintoncheeracademy.com.

September 17-19
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. 7pm, Fri; 2pm, Sat. & Sun., Mississippi Coliseum, Mississippi State Fairgrounds. Lions, tigers, (and maybe) bears - oh my! The circus is in town for three days only. Tickets range from $45-$14. Call 601-355-5252 or visit www.ringling.com for more information.

September 17 Friday
This One's For the Boys. 11:45am, Baptist for Women Conference Center, 1225 North State Street, Jackson. If there is an important man in your life, come and bring him—or come alone—to learn the basics about what men need regarding their health. Urologist H. Jason Blalock, MD; cardiologist William Harper, MD; and gastrointerologist Ron Kotfila, MD, will lead this panel discussion. Cost is $5 for optional lunch. Call 601-968-1000 or visit www.mbhs.org for more information.

September 17-19 & 24-26
Vicksburg Theatre Guild presents “Catfish Moon”. Fri & Sat at 7:30pm and Sun at 2pm, Vicksburg Parkside Playhouse, 101 Iowa Avenue, Vicksburg. Three middle-aged men, inseparable as adolescents, open a “can of worms” as they take a fishing trip under the Catfish Moon. Tickets at $12 for adults, $10 for senior citizens 55+ and students 13+, and $7 for children 12 and younger. Call 601-636-0471 or visit www.e-vtg.com for more information.

September 18 Saturday
Cyclists Curing Cancer Century Ride benefitting Baptist Cancer Services’ Serenity Garden. 7:30am, Baptist Healthplex, 102 Clinton Parkway, Clinton. The journey begins at the Baptist Healthplex in Clinton and stretches along the beautiful, historic Natchez Trace. Participants will receive a Century Ride T-shirt and lunch after the event. Rest stops will be stocked with water, sports drinks, snacks, and fruit. Registration is $45. To register, call 601-968-1248 for an entry form or go online to www.mbhs.org/cyclistscuringcancer.

September 21 Tuesday
Join the Arabian Nights & “The Black Stallion”. 10am, show for 5th & 6th grade students; 7pm, show for general public, Kirk Fordice Equine Center, MS State Fairgrounds, Jackson. Featuring the horses & riders of the Arabian Nights Dinner Theather Show, Kissimmee, FL for and encore presentation of the show enjoyed by local students. Proceeds generated will be used to fund students for the 2011-2012 school year. Admission is $10 per person, children 6 and under free. Call 601-405-6835, email Melissa.daniels@bslf-online.org or visit www.bslf-online.org for more information.

September 21 Tuesday
Unburied Treasures. 5:30pm, Mississippi Museum of Art, Trustmark Grand Hall, 380 South Lamar Street, Jackson. This month's featured artwork is Caroline Durieux's (1896–1989), Intermission, 1975. Bequest of Sara Virginia Jones. A scholar speaks about artist Caroline Durieux and her work, and Jennifer Merri Parker reads poetry of original selections pertinent to or written for Unburied Treasures. Marta Szlubowska-Kirk discusses musical compositions relation to the art work and The Szlubowski Duo presents a short concert on piano. Free admission. Call 601-960-1515, 1-866-VIEW-ART or visit www.msmuseumart.org for more information.

September 21 Tuesday
Walking Forward Support Group Meeting. 5:30pm, Hederman Cancer Center, Baptist Health Systems, 1227 North State Street, Jackson. This support group for women with any kind of gynecological cancer is a great resource for sharing ideas and gaining encouragement. Gynecologic Oncologist Mildred Ridgway will give an update on gynecologic cancers. Online registration is not available. To register, call 601-948-6262.

September 21 Tuesday
WellsFest Art Night. 5pm-7pm, Greater Jackson Arts Council, 201 East Pascagoula Street, Jackson. WellsFest Art Night is a celebration of works by some of Central Mississippi's finest artists. There will be food and music followed by a live auction. Call 601-353-0658 for more information.

September 23 Thursday
Symphony at Sunset. 7pm-10pm, The Cedars Historic Home, 4145 Old Canton Road, Jackson. An evening of neighborhood fun, under the stars, on the lawn of the Cedars with music from the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. Bring your blanket, your chairs, and your picnic and join us for the magic of this fall evening…an annual affair to remember! Call 601-981-9606 or visit www.fondren.org for more information.

September 24 Friday
Make a Splash. 4pm-7pm, Miss. Museum of Natural Science, 2148 Riverside Drive, Jackson. This fun, interactive water day allows students to explore a diversity of water related topics. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 3-18, $4 for senior citizens; children 3 and under and members are free. Call 601-354-7303 or visit http://museum.mdwfp.com for more information.

September 25 Saturday
Mommy and Me Sign Language Class. 9am-11am, St. Dominic’s Hospital, 969 Lakeland Drive, Jackson. Learn how to teach your baby sign language before they can speak! Cost is $50 and includes the book and parent resource guide. Call 601-487-8176 or visit www.signingwithtots.com for more information.

September 25 & 26
National Alpaca Farm Day hosted by Doaks Creek Farm. 10am-4pm, Sat; 1pm-6pm, Sun, 1870 Way Road, Pickens. Doaks Creek Farm will again welcome guests to join them for many activities including seeing both Huacaya and Suri alpacas but also llamas, Mo the pot bellied pig, pygmy goats, a variety of chickens, horses to ride, pond to fish in (bring your pole and bait), and hot dogs to eat! Truly a wonderful family day at the farm, all FREE! Contact Cindy at 601-720-8101 or cindychapp@yahoo.com for more information.

September 25 Saturday
Outdoorama on the Rez. 8am-1pm, Turcotte Lab off of Highway 43 at the Ross Barnett Reservoir. For children ages 5-14 and anyone who wants to find out what hunting and fishing is all about. There will be hands-on activities like shooting, fishing and archery plus bird dogs and retrievers in action and much more! Free event. Call 601-206-5703 for more information.

September 25-January 16
River and Reverie: Paintings of the Mississippi by Rolland Golden. Tues.-Sat. 10am-5pm; Sun. 12pm-5pm, Mississippi Museum of Art, 380 South Lamar Street, Jackson. On view in The Donna and Jim Barksdale Galleries for Changing Exhibitions, these works mark Rolland Golden's first solo exhibition at the Mississippi Museum of Art. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $3 for students. For more information about this exhibition and other programs offered by the Mississippi Museum of Art, visit the web at www.msmuseumart.org or call 601-960-1515 or toll free 1-866-VIEW-ART.

September 25 Saturday
WellsFest 5K Run/Walk. 8am, The Little League Ballparks on Lakeland Drive. Pre-Registration is $15 for individuals, $45 per family; Race Day is $20 for individuals and $60 per family. Join us for WellsFest 2010, a family-oriented, alcohol-and drug-free festival: good food, live music, children’s games and activities, silent & live auctions, arts & crafts, and more, at Lakeland Park (next to Smith-Wills). General festival admission and parking: free. Proceeds from concessions and activities, including the run/walk, go to Mississippi Families for Kids. For more information, call 601-936-2100 or 601-353-0658 or visit www.wellsfest.com.

September 27-October 3
Viking Classic. 7am, Annandale Golf Club, 100 Annandale Golf Club Drive, Madison. Viking Classic, Mississippi's premier sporting event, and Century Club Charities, Inc. are pleased to announce the event is the first of the PGA Tour’s 2010 Fall Series. Daily tickets are $20, Hit the Fairways Package is $100, Preferred Parking is $50, Public Parking is $10. All proceeds will benefit Friends of Children’s Hospital. Call 601-898-golf (4653) or visit www.vikingclassic.com for more information.

September 28 Tuesday
Music in the City. 5:15pm, Mississippi Museum of Art, Trustmark Grand Hall, Mississippi Museum of Art, 380 South Lamar Street, Jackson. In partnership with St. Andrew's Cathedral, the Museum brings you a new series of free concerts one Tuesday a month. Enjoy after hours in Downtown Jackson this month with Rachel Heard, pianist. This event is sponsored by Wise Carter Child & Caraway, P.A. Free admission. Donations welcome. Call 601-960-1515, 1-866-VIEW-ART or visit www.msmuseumart.org for more information.

September 30 & October 1
Emeril Lagasse Cooking Demonstration. 11am, Annandale Golf Club, 100 Annandale Golf Club Drive, Madison. See celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse and support Friends of Children’s Hospital! Tickets are $100 each and include one day entrance into the tournament and demonstration, as well as free parking. Call 601-898-golf (4653) or visit www.vikingclassic.com for more information.

September 30 Thursday
Horne CPA & Business Advisors Jazz, Art & Friends. 5:30pm-8:30pm, Mississippi Museum of Art, Mississippi Museum of Art, 380 South Lamar Street, Jackson. One Thursday a month enjoy cocktails, listen to the best jazz Jackson has to offer, and mingle with friends all while surrounded by world-class art! September's performer is to be announced. This event is sponsored by Horne CPAs & Business Advisors. Admission is $5 for Museum Members, $7 for non-members. Call 601-960-1515, 1-866-VIEW-ART or visit www.msmuseumart.org for more information.

September 30 Thursday
The Power of Pink. 11am-5pm, Highland Village Shopping Center, 4500 I-55 North, Jackson. Join Baptist Breast Health Center as we unite forces with local sponsors to promote breast health and kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month. No registration required. The event is free. For more information call 601-948-6262.

October 1 Friday
First Annual Purple for Peace. 11:30am-1:30pm, Hilton Jackson Hotel, 1001 East County Line Road, Jackson. The luncheon event will promote family violence prevention, recognize National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and celebrate the Coalition’s 30 years of service! The guest speaker is Sue Else, President of the National Network to End Domestic Violence, based in Washington, D.C. Tickets are $15. RSVP required by September 20. Call 601-981-9196 for more information or visit www.mcadv.org.

Exhibits and Ongoing Events

Artsy Wednesdays at the Play Place. Open 9am-2pm. 647-B Highway 51, Ridgeland. Come get messy! Every Wednesday, The Play Place offers simple, fun, and creative arts projects for your little one to enjoy, including watercolor painting, finger painting, molding, and more! Admission is only $6. Contact Doug or Sandy Hart for more information, 601-856-5296, or visit www.theplayplacems.net.

B. B. King Museum. Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-5pm. 400 Second Street (corner of Sunflower Avenue), Indianola. Adults (18+) $10; under 18 and over 65 $5; students (all ages) with school ID $5. Groups of 10 or more adults (per person) $6; children under 5 and members of the B.B. King Museum get in free! For information on group tours, school field trips, and facility rentals, call 662-887-9539 or visit www.bbkingmuseum.org.

Buck-A-Roo Parties. Book your fall festival now for pony rides, face painting, farm and an exotic petting zoo. Let them plan a fun festival for your church, business, school, daycare, birthday and October festival. Visit www.buckarooparties.com for more information.

Cans for Christ at The Play Place. Open 9am-2pm. 647-B Highway 51, Ridgeland. Every Monday is ‘Cans for Christ”, at The Play Place, when you bring in 2-3 canned good, you’ll receive $2 off the cost of admission, $4 instead of $6. All canned good will go to Miss Food Networking. If you are not able to bring in any canned goods, then bring in your church bulletin from the Saturday/Sunday church service before and again, you’ll receive $2 off the cost of admission. Contact Doug or Sandy Hart for more information, 601-856-5296, or visit www.theplayplacems.net.

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 for ages 1-100 is $10, children under 1 are free. Special rates for school groups. 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-4:30pm, Mon.-Sat., and 1-4:30pm, 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. Donations welcome. Register for day camps. Call 601-926-1104 or visit www.clintonnaturecenter.org.

Eudora Welty House Museum. Tours are from Tues.-Fri. at 9am, 11am, 1pm and 3pm, 1119 Pinehurst, Jackson. The museum is celebrating the centennial of this world-renowned writer. Tour her home, explore her town, and enjoying commemorative events. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for students ages 6-18. Children under 6 are free. Visit www.eudorawelty.org for complete information.

Fire Museum & Public Fire Safety Education Center. Open Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm, 355 Woodrow Wilson Road, Jackson. The Public Fire Safety Education Center and Fire Museum provides an entertaining and educational showcase of history of fire fighting through exhibitions of artifacts while providing knowledge, skills, and education necessary to prevent the loss of life and/or property to the ravages of fire. Free admission. Call 601-960-2433 for more information.

The Florence-Richland Homeschool Group is a co-operative, support organization for families offering educational, recreational, and community ministry activities including 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 bttt@bellsouth.net for more information.

Governor’s Mansion Tours. Tues.-Fri. 9:30am, 10am, 10:30am, & 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. Admission is free. Reservations are required for groups of ten or more. Call 601-359-6421 or visit www.mdah.state.ms.us.

International Museum of Muslim Cultures. Open Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm; Sun, 12pm-5pm, closed on Friday from 1pm-3pm. 201 E. Pascagoula Street, Jackson. Admission is $13 for adults, $12 for seniors and $7 for children. Call 601-960-0440 or visit www.muslimmuseum.org for more information.

Jackson Zoo. 2918 West Capitol Street, Jackson. 9am-5pm. Admission: Friends of the Zoo free; children under 2 free; children 2-12 $5; adults 13+ $8; seniors 65+ $7.20; Military is $7 for adults, $4.50 for children. Groups of 15 or more contact 601-352-2586 for special rates and reservations. Parking and train & carousel rides are $2 each. Strollers from $4-8. Call 601-352-2580 or visit www.jacksonzoo.org.

Manship House Museum. 9am-4pm, Tues.-Fri. 420 East Fortification St., Jackson. Free. Reservations required for groups of 10 or more. Call 601-961-4724 or visit http://mdah.state.ms.us/museum/manship/index.html.

Memphis Zoo. March-Oct. 9am-5pm. Nov.-Feb. 9am-4pm. 2000 Prentiss Place, Memphis. Admission (prices include entrance to all exhibits) is: $15 adults (ages 12-59); $14 seniors (ages 60+); $10 children (ages 2-11); children under age 2 admitted free. Parking $5 per vehicle/Memphis Zoo Members free. A few of the zoo’s events are Saturday Zoo School for Preschool Students, Saturday Trekkers, & homeschool workshops. Call 901-276-WILD or visit www.memphiszoo.org for more information.

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. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for children ages 5-18, $1 for children ages 3-4. Call 601-713-3365 or 1-800-844-8687 or visit www.MDAC.State.ms.us.

Mississippi Museum of Art. Tues.-Sat. 10am-5pm; Sun. 12-5pm. 380 South Lamar Street. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 ages 6 through college age, under 5 and MMA members free. Call 601-960-1515 or visit www.msmuseumart.org.

Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. Mon.-Fri., 8am-5pm; Sat., 9am-5pm; Sun. 1pm-5pm. LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, 2148 Riverside Drive, Jackson. Admission to park and museum is $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 3-18 and $4 for seniors ages 60 and up, children under 3 and members are free. Membership $35 individual or $65 family. Call 601-354-7303 or visit http://museum.mdwfp.com/.
Current Exhibits:
Fish Feedings. 10am, every Tues. and Fri. and watch a diver feed the fish on Sunday at 2pm.
Creature Features. 10am & 2pm, almost every Sat. Informal live or mounted animal programs.
Naturalist Lecture Series. 12pm-1pm, Rotwein Theater, first Tues. monthly. Free to Museum Foundation Members (please show card). Regular museum admission applies to visitors.
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. “MAPP!” - a study of marine animals past and present! 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 Petrified Forest. 124 Forest Park Road, Flora. Open every day except Christmas and Thanksgiving. Times are April 1-Labor Day, 9am-6pm; Labor Day-April 1, 9am-5pm. Earth Science Museum, nature trail, rock patio, picnic area, campgrounds, and more. Adults are $7, seniors & students are $6, group rate available. Call 601-879-8189 or visit www.mspetrifiedforest.com.

Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum, 1152 Lakeland Drive, Jackson. Open Mon.-Sat. 10am-4pm. The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum employs advanced media technology to create an exhilarating sensory experience for visitors, not only from Mississippi but from across the country and around the world. Admission is $5 for adults, $3.50 for children, seniors and students, free for children 5 and under. Call 601-982-8264 or visit www.msfame.com for more information.

Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience. Location is Utica and Natchez. Utica address is 3863 Old Morrison Road, Utica; Natchez address is 213 South Commerce Street, Natchez. Hours are by appointment only. Self guided tour, appointments are required. Museum is supported by donations, suggested donation is $6 for adults and $4 for children. Call 601-362-6357 or visit www.isjl.org for more information.

Mynelle Gardens. Open Mar. 1-Oct. 31, Mon-Sun, 9am-5:15pm, Nov. 1-Feb. 28, Mon-Sat, 8am-4:15pm, Sun, 12pm-4:15pm. Tour takes an hour. 4736 Clinton Boulevard, Jackson. From a single garden started over fifty years ago, Mynelle Gardens stands today as a botanical wonderland and wildlife sanctuary. The gardens feature azalea and camellia trails, daylily displays, and hundreds of annuals and perennials in natural landscape settings accented with bronze sculptures. Admission is $4 for adults, $1 for children. Call 601-960-1894 for more information.

Oaks House Museum, 823 North Jefferson Street, Jackson. Tues-Sat 10am-3pm. Welcome to the Boyd House, “The Oaks,” one of Jackson’s oldest dwellings. This Greek Revival-style cottage was built about 1853 on four acres of land located near the center of Mississippi’s capital city. Call 601-353-9339, email oakshousemuseum@comcast.net or visit www.theoakshousemuseum.org.

Old Capitol Museum. Open Tues.-Sat. 9am-5pm, Sun. 1-5pm. Downtown Jackson. Hear the many stories this building can tell about history, architecture, politics, and people. Admission is free. Call 601-576-6920 or visit http://mdah.state.ms.us/museum/oldcap/index.php.

PEAK Homeschool Network. Parent Educators and Kids Homeschool Network (PEAK) is an inclusive, non-affiliated homeschool organization serving the Jackson Metro and other areas throughout Mississippi. Families in PEAK participate in year-round educational and social activities created and organized by its members. PEAK's mission is to help independent home educators connect, share resources, and collaborate in order to create a uniquely diverse community that welcomes families from a variety of backgrounds, beliefs, and educational philosophies. For more information, visit www.peaknetwork.org or email Natalie at ncriss@peaknetwork.org.

Russell C. Davis Planetarium. Show times vary. Downtown Jackson. Ticket prices are as follows: Feature Films/Laser Shows are $6.50 for adults; $5.50 for seniors; $4 for children; Sky Shows are $5.50 for adults; $4.50 for seniors; $3 for children. Space Science Exhibit FREE; 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 601-960-1550.

Smith Robertson Museum & Culture Center. Jackson. Visit the permanent exhibits to learn more about black history. Mon.-Fri., 9am-5pm; Sat., 9am-1pm. Admission: $4.50 adults, $1.50 children, $3 seniors. For more information call 601-960-1457.

Tennessee Aquarium. One Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN. The Tennessee Aquarium's River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings are home to a richly diverse collection of animals including sharks, seahorses, free-flying songbirds, cold-climate penguins, river otters, alligators, turtles, snakes, frogs, and a host of amazing invertebrates. Hotel packages are available. Call 800-262-0695 or visit www.tnaqua.org for more information.

Thrifty Tuesdays at The Play Place. Open 9am-2pm. 647-B Highway 51, Ridgeland. Every Tuesday is ‘Thrifty Tuesday,’ at The Play Place, when the cost of admission is only $3. That’s half off the regular price! Come join the fun in a clean, safe, and creative environment. Contact Doug or Sandy Hart for more information, 601-856-5296, or visit www.theplayplacems.net.

Sports

YMCA Sports Programs. Contact your local Y for details. Visit www.metroymcams.org.

Clinton Parks & Recreation. Office hours are from 8am-5pm, Mon.-Fri. Registration for variety of sports programs. Call 601-924-6082 or 601-925-1386 or visit www.clintonparksandrec.com.

Dance Instruction

Ballet Magnificat! School of the Arts, 5406 I-55 North, Jackson. Classes and workshops for adults and children. Ages 3-adult. Call 601-977-1001 or visit www.balletmagnificat.com.

Ballet Mississippi, 201 East Pascagoula Street, Suite 106, Jackson or 2103 Main Street, Madison. Classes for Beginners Ballet, Advanced Beginners Ballet, Teen Dance, Adult Ballet and Drill Teen Dance are available. Call 601-960-1560 or visit www.balletms.com for more information.

Center Pointe Dance Academy. Located at Pinelake Christian School in Brandon with a satellite location at the Baptist Healthplex in Clinton. We offer quality ballet training from a Christian worldview for ages 3 and up. In our creative movement, pre-ballet, and ballet classes we challenge our students to reach their full potential and strive for excellence using that to glorify God in their lives. Call 601-594-4560 or 601-497-4618 or visit www.centerpointedance.com.

Fencing

Central Mississippi Fencing, 603 Merganser Trail, Clinton. CMF provides instruction and fencing opportunities for beginning and experienced fencers in international Olympic style competitive fencing. Learn to fence now and find a lifelong sport or hone your skills for competition. Call 601-942-7307 or visit www.clintonfencing.com for more information.

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.

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 or visit http://griffinstkd.net/.

Running

Mississippi Track Club. Walk or run your way into shape this year with the help of the family-friendly Miss. Track Club. Call 601-856-9884 or visit www.mstrackclub.com.

Swimming

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. Call 601-932-4800 or visit www.msmakos.org.

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.metroymcams.org.

Tennis

USTA Southern Mississippi Jr. Team Tennis. JTT connects kids together in teams to play singles, doubles and mixed doubles against other teams within a league; promotes social skills and important values such as a spirit of cooperation and unity, as well as individual self-growth; and is a fun environment for kids where they learn that succeeding is really more about how they play that day, win or lose. Call 601-981-4421 or visit www.mstennis.com.

Parham Bridges Tennis Academy, 5055 Old Canton Road, Jackson. Junior Tennis Academy offers Private Lessons, Pro-Level Lessons with Spot Coaching and Sparing Partner, Video Analysis Lessons and Tournament Coaching. Call 601-956-1105 or 601-720-6117 or visit http://www.mississippitennisacademy.com/pages/index.cfm?siteid=12409.

YMCA Tennis Lessons. Ages 5 and up. Reservoir YMCA, 6023 Lakeshore Park, Brandon, 601-992-9118; Cascades Racquet Club, 60 Cascades Circle West, Clinton, 601-924-2705.

Support Groups & Classes

Aerybeth: Sewing Classes and Summer Camps. Adult & children's classes. Summer sewing camps and craft camps for ages 4 and older. Call Cristy Anderson at 601-919-1281 to register for sewing classes or summer camps, or print registration at www.aerybeth.com/sewing. Flowood area! Email cristy@aerybeth.com.

American Red Cross Classes. For information on classes and times, visit www.redcross.org.

Brain Injury Support Group. 7pm, fourth Monday monthly, St. Dominic Hospital. For patients and families dealing with brain injuries. Free. Call 601-981-1021.

Breastfeeding Classes. 12Noon, first Wednesday of the month, Wiser Hospital for Women and Infants at UMC. Class is taught by a Board Certified Lactation Consultant and provides mothers and their support person an opportunity to learn the most current information and techniques for a successful breastfeeding experience. Call to verify time and date. Call 601-815-7461.

Cancer Connect. 5pm on the first Sunday of every month, Chapel Parlor, First Baptist Church Jackson, 431 North State Street. A place of connection for meeting the emotional and spiritual needs of those facing cancer, as well as their caregivers and family members. CancerConnect provides a sanctuary, place of refuge, where one can find comfort and support from those who have been where you are now. Encouragement and prayer from others can not only aid in the healing process but can transform shattered lives into becoming better equipped to deal with the issues that a cancer experience brings. Call 601-949-1949 or visit www.fbcj.org for more information.

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. Bring your car seat. To register, call 601-933-6160.

Caring for Caregivers. 11:30am, Third Monday of Every Month, Chapel Parlor, First Baptist Church Jackson. Caring for Caregivers is a support group for those caring for aging family members or loved ones with a chronic health problem. Often care givers need support themselves, since care giving can be physically and emotionally exhausting. CareGivers support group provides an opportunity for care givers to receive that needed support in an atmosphere of love, trust and confidentiality. Call Summit Counseling of First Baptist Church Jackson at 601-949-1949 or visit www.fbcj.org for more information.

Child Abuse Hotline. Anyone with cause to suspect abuse or neglect is required by law to report it, including lawyers, doctors, teachers, and clergy. Call 800-222-8000.

Childbirth Classes.
St. Dominic Education Services, call 601-200-6934. Woman’s Hospital, call 601-933-6160. Baptist Medical Center, call 601-948-6262.

Consumer Credit Counseling. Free budget counseling; debt management. For a small donation. Appointment only. Miss. Children’s Home Society, 1900 N.West St. Call 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.
River Oaks Hospital. 2-3pm, every fourth Wed. Private Dining Room. Registration required. Call 601-936-1052. Free.
Rankin Medical Center. 10:30am, fourth Thurs. monthly. Fitness Plus. Free. Call 601-824-8445.
Central Mississippi Medical Center. 10-11am, third Tues. monthly. Diabetes Management Center classroom, third floor. Free. Call 601-376-2485.
St. Dominic Wound Center. Call 601-200-6718.

DivorceCare. Several area Baptist churches offer this video series combined with group discussion. 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 support group typically meets on the second Tuesday monthly at 6pm. 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 601-573-0756 for class times and locations.

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. Call 601-713-4357.
Grief Support for Children. McClean Fletcher Center, 2624 Southerland Street. Grief support center for children. Call 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. Call 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. Call 601-982-4405.

Home Safety Hero. Madison Fire Department teaches a class to boys & girls on home safety. What to do in an emergency, calling 911, tips on babysitting, 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 checklist to complete, and when they complete it, they get a prize! Class for children 9 and up. Call 601-856-8894.

Homeschool Skating. 9:30-11:30am. First Tuesday of each month Sept. through May. Funtime Skating Rink, Pearl. This event is hosted by the Florence/Richland Homeschool Group and is open to any homeschooler. $4 per child (parents can skate for $4, too). Call 601-664-2180 or e-mail bttt@bellsouth.net.

Infant Seat Safety Check. Certified technicians from Mississippi Safe Kids will be at St. Dominic's to show parents how to properly install their child's car seat. Free. Call 601-200-6934 for more information.

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.

Mississippi Food Allergy Support Group. Meets every other month at 6pm at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. 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 Home Educators Association. The Mississippi Home Educators Association seeks to enable, equip, and encourage those families committed to teaching their children at home. MHEA accomplishes this goal through their annual conferences and through their affiliated local support groups. Call 662-494-1999 or visit www.mhea.net for more information.

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.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Brandon. Meets the second Monday of every month from September-May from 9am-11:30am in the Fellowship Hall at Crossgates Baptist Church, Brandon. 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 601-591-1521 or 601-573-6806.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers). 9-11am, 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. Contact Brandye at joeybrandye@bellsouth.net, or visit www.freewebs.com/pinelakemops.

Mom’s Morning Out, Brandon. Crossgates United Methodist Church in Brandon is enrolling children ages infant to four years old for the Mom's Morning Out Program. The program operates Mondays and Wednesdays for $85 a month. Call 601-825-8677 or email carmstrong@crossgatesumc.org to enroll or receive more information.

Parenting and Healthy Relationship Classes. 5:30-7pm each Thurs., Mt. Elam Missionary Baptist Church, 701 Old Whitfield Rd, Pearl. 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. 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 offered by the Madison Fire Department. Call Lisa at 601-573-0756 for class times and locations.

Reservoir Area Christian Home Educators. 7-9pm, first Thurs. monthly. All homeschoolers welcome, not just those in the Reservoir area. Call 601-992-8768.

Teen Parent Support Class. Saturdays 10am. West Jackson CDC Parent Training Center, 2485 West Capitol. Improve parenting skills and meet new friends. Consultant available. Call 601-969-7232.

Tourette Syndrome Association. Jackson Area Support Group. TSA’s mission is to identify the caust of , find the cure for and control the effects of Tourette Syndrome. They offer resources and referrals to help people and their families cope with the problems that occur with TS. 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

Brandon Library. 1475 W. Government Street, Brandon. Baby and Me (For 2 and under), 10am & 11am each Monday; Preschool Story Time, 10:30am each Wednesday. Call 601-825-2672.

Flowood Library. 103 Winners Circle, Flowood. Preschool Story, 10:30am, each Wed & Thurs for children ages 3-6; Mother Goose Lap Sit, 9:30 & 10:30am, each Monday. Call 601-919-1911.

Lemuria Bookstore Storytime. 202 Banner Hall, 4465 I-55 North, Jackson. Saturdays 10-11am. Join us in Oz, the children’s section (OZ) of Lemuria, for children’s books read by Emily. Ages 2-10. Call 601-366-7619.

Madison Library. 994 Madison Avenue, Madison. Risin’ Readers-ages 3-5, Tues. 10am; Baby Bookworms-ages 1-2, Wed. 10am & 10:45am. Call 601-856-2749.

Neighborhood Christian Centers of Jackson. Offers free after- school tutoring at the following locations: Ash Street Center, 417 W. Ash Street; First Presbyterian Church, 1390 North State Street; Mission First (First Baptist Church), 275 Roseneath Street; Redeemer Church, PCA, 640 Northside Drive; To sign up, 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.

Pearl Public Library. 2416 Old Brandon Road, Pearl. Baby Bookworms, ages 3 & under, 9:30am each Tuesday. Preschool Story Time, ages 3-6, 10:30am each Tuesday. Call 601-932-2562.

Richland Library. 370 Scarbrough Street, Richland. Preschool Story Time, 10am each Wednesday. Call 601-932-1846.

Ridgeland Library. 397 Highway 51, Ridgeland. Rising Readers, ages 3-5, Tues. 3:30pm. Baby Bookworms, ages 1-2, Thurs. 10:30am. Teen Advisory Board/RPL Anime Club. Call 601-856-4536.

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.

Aerybeth: Sewing Classes and Summer Camps. Adult & children's classes. Summer sewing camps and craft camps for ages 4 and older. Call Cristy Anderson at 601-919-1281 to register for sewing classes or summer camps, or print registration at www.aerybeth.com/sewing . Flowood area! For more info, e-mail Cristy at cristy@aerybeth.com.

Aquatics Training. American Red Cross. Off-site training. Pre-registration required Call 601-353-5442 for dates.

Babysitting. Supersitters with CPR Training. Baptist Medical Center. Babysitting for teens 11-15, 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.

Girl Scout Equestrian Troop 672. "The Horse Troop" accepts girls ages 6-15 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.

Lifeguard Training. Lakeland Courthouse. $185 fee includes Lifesaving, CPR, First Aid, and AED. Call Kandy at 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. Call 601-965-1355 or visit 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. Call 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.