JFP Events - Event Listings for Jackson, Mississippi

2008 Chamber Membership Campaign Kick Off: Tue, Oct 7, 9:00 am.; The Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership is kicking off its 2008 membership campaign with a goal of 88 new members in 2008. Prizes and incentives for all who participate.

Music in the City: Tue, Oct 7, 5:45 pm.; In partnership with St. Andrew's Cathedral, the Museum brings you a new series of free concerts one Tuesday a month. Get a little culture, have a lot of fun in downtown Jackson this month as harpsichordists John Paul and Shawn Leopard perform an all Bach program. Be sure to make dinner reservations at Sophia's restaurant at the Fairview Inn--A portion of your tab goes to support Music in the City.; St. Andrew's Episcopal Cathedral (305 E. Capitol St.); Free.

Book Signing: "Midnight": Wed, Oct 8, 5:00 pm.; Author John M. Floyd signs copies of "Midnight" with a reading to follow at 5:30 p.m.; Lemuria Bookstore.; Free event, $22.95 book.

St. Pe Presents: "Orbis Romanus": Wed, Oct 8, 9:00 pm.; For the kick-off event of "St. Pe Presents," a Wednesday-night movie event at Pi(e) Lounge, the short film "Orbis Romanus" will be screened. St. Pe Presents will show a different full-length film or handful of short films every Wednesday night.; Sal & Mookie's.; Free admission.

JFP Lounge at Pi(e) Lounge: Thu, Oct 9, 6:00 pm.; Come enjoy a special JFP "Creative Class" martini, free food and lots of fellowship (and maybe a touch of networking) with fellow Jackson creatives and progressives.; Sal & Mookie's.; Free admission.

"On Stage for Murder": Thu, Oct 9, 6:30 pm.; When a director re-writes a few lines, it could be “curtains” for a certain Prima Donna. The Death by Diedre murder mystery troupe is all ready to perform A Plateful of Death. But, their micro-managing, obsessive-compulsive, control-freak director, Diedre, has a few last minute problems with the show. An actor’s worst nightmare, this director mouths everyone’s lines, gets a kick out of watching them struggle with ill-fitting costumes and gleefully fires the troupe to hold open auditions during the performance.; Mississippi Craft Center.; $45 includes dinner, tax and tip.

Dress for Success Metro Jackson: Thu, Oct 9, 6:30 pm.; Pull out your favorite little black dress and help support an organization that financially helps women get clothes for job interviews and work.; University Club (22nd Floor, 210 E. Capitol St.); $40.

Comedy Night: Thu, Oct 9, 8:00 pm.; The Entertainment Group presents this weekly night of comedy with a special guest.; Club 101.; $7.

"We Are What We Eat: How Food Shapes Culture": Fri, Oct 10, 6:00 pm.; Liz Williams, director of the Southern Food and Beverage Museum in New Orleans, and Dan Blumenthal, chef and partner in BRAVO!, Sal & Mookie's and Broadstreet Bakery, present this Arts & Lecture series installment on how food has influenced our culture.; Millsaps College - Ford Academic Complex.; $50 each, $40 each for senior citizens.

Common Cause Mississippi Membership Banquet: Fri, Oct 10, 6:30 pm.; Common Cause will honor award-winning journalist Bill Minor at this annual event. Master of Ceremonies is Bert Case with special guest Hank Klibanoff, Pulitzer Prize winning author of "Race Beat."; University Club (22nd Floor, 210 E. Capitol St.); $40 (limited number of $20 student tickets).

Jackson Collective Showcase: Fri, Oct 10, 7:00 pm.; Join the Jackson Art Collective for their annual art show, transforming the back of Hal & Mal's into an art gallery. Live music, dancing, spoken word and art.; Hal & Mal's.

"All the Way from Magnolia Springs": Fri, Oct 10, 8:00 pm.; Presented by Springer Theatricals This touching and hysterical play is based on the best-selling novel Daisy Fay and the Miracle Man by renowned author Fannie Flagg who officially entered the pantheon of Southern writers with the publication of her novel, Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café. You’ll meet snaggle-toothed Daisy Fay Harper in the summer of 1958 where she's packing for her trip to the Miss Mississippi Pageant in Tupelo. Despite being a motherless, dirt-poor country girl, Daisy Fay is sassy, resourceful and determined to make something of her life. She takes us on an astonishing journey through her formative years in rural Mississippi where she rises from awkward tomboy to a star at the local community theatre and an aspiring Miss America. Daisy Fay has emerged as one of the most hilarious, appealing, and prized characters in modern fiction! "Hilarious, will make you laugh out loud!" - THE BIRMINGHAM NEWS; MSU Riley Center.

Monarch Butterfly Lecture: Sat, Oct 11, 9:00 am.; Dr. Bill Stark will present a program on Monarch migration and tag and release additional Monarchs in the Butterfly Garden. There will also be a plant sale.; Clinton Community Nature Center.

"Curtain Calls": Sat, Oct 11, 7:00 pm.; The Jackson Revival Church Theatre Ministry of Reconciliation presents this awards celebration with special guest David Mann, aka "Mr. Brown."; Alamo Theatre.; $25.

MSO Bravo I: "Opening Gambit": Sat, Oct 11, 7:30 pm.; The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra performs.; Thalia Mara Hall.; $4-$50.

First Annual Heather Spencer Soulshine Memorial Concert: Sat, Oct 11, 8:00 pm.; Heather's T.R.E.E. hosts this benefit for the Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence featuring live music and a silent auction. The event is in honor of Mary Heather Spencer, killed by boyfriend George Bell III in 2007.; Hal & Mal's.

Gospel, Jazz, and Blues Sundays: Ezra Brown: Sun, Oct 12, 1:30 pm.; The popular Gospel, Jazz and Blues Sundays series at the Jackson Zoo continues this month Jazz musician Ezra Brown performing soulful standards from his collection.; Jackson Zoological Park.; Free with regular zoo admission.

Premiere Art Show: Mon, Oct 13, 5:30 pm.; Artwork of Via Melia, Emily Hildebrand, Mark Knight and Lilly Lucius will be on display at the newest coffeeshop in Jackson.; Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St.); Free event.

Rankin Chamber Lunch Club: Tue, Oct 7, 11:30 am.; Enjoy your lunch while networking with your business colleagues.; Smokehouse BBQ (2227 Mississippi 471, Brandon); Free event.

"Recruiting, Retaining, & Motivating Volunteers": Tue, Oct 7, 1:00 pm.; Does your organization utilize the help of volunteers? Then this workshop is just for you! Recruiting, Retaining, & Motivating Volunteers will allow you to explore creative ways to recruit, motivate, and reward volunteers. You will learn the basic steps for assessing your organization's needs, establishing volunteer job descriptions, recruiting volunteers, supervising and retaining volunteers, identifying formal and informal recognitions, and developing evaluation mechanisms.; LeFleur Transportation (219 Industrial Dr., Ridgeland); $39 members; $79 non-members; Free - MDLEY Sub-grantees.

Growing Up With Willie: Tue, Oct 7, 5:00 pm.; Reminiscences by Willie's Yazoo Friends. Introduced by JoAnne Prichard Morris. Upcoming events in the Willie Morris Series (2008-2009) will feature prominent writers, actors, friends and a children's matinee.; Willie Morris Library, 4912 Old Canton Road, Jackson; Free.

Meet the Newest Members of the Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi: Tue, Oct 7, 5:30 pm.; This exhibit showcases the work of the newest members of the Guild. Refreshments will be served.; Mississippi Craft Center.; http://mscrafts.org.

Take a Bite Out of Cancer: Tue, Oct 7, 12:00 pm.; 15% of sales will be donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Mississippi.; Sal & Mookie's.

Jackson 2000 Luncheon Meeting: Wed, Oct 8, 11:45 am.; Socrates Garrett, chairman of Mississippi Link; Donna Ladd, editor of the Jackson Free Press; and Sid Salter, columnist for the Clarion-Ledger will speak about the impact of the McCain-Obama contest on race relations in Mississippi.; Schimmel's Restaurant.; $10.

JxnPro Lunch: Wed, Oct 8, 11:30 am.; What started on a whim we will turn into a full fledged tradition. In the interest of being the spark that ignites the rebirth of the Farish Historic District, JxnPro is calling on everyone to join them for some of the best soul food in the land (and they have veggie plates for you vegetarians!). Not only will you be patronizing one of Jackson's longtime institutions, you will be a part of a central place for Jackson's downtown young progressive community to meet and fellowship. Plus you will bring much needed life to downtown.; Peaches (327 Farish St.); Free event.

Conference on Eliminating Health Disparities in Mississippi: Stroke and Obesity (Strobesity): Oct 9 – Oct 10.; The Institute of Epidemiology and Health Services Research and the Center of Excellence in Minority Health, School of Health Sciences, College of Public Service, Jackson State University, will host its eighth annual "Conference on Eliminating Health Disparities in Mississippi: Stroke and Obesity (Strobesity)." Event co-sponsors are the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Civil Rights, Region IV; National Institutes of Health, National Center for Minority Health and Health Disparities; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.; Hilton Jackson Convention Center (1101 East County Line Rd.); Free, but registration is needed due to limited space.

Southern Writers Group: Fri, Oct 10, 12:00 pm.; Writers & aspiring writers gather to discuss writing and publishing. Open to all. Brown bag lunch with drinks provided. The group meets the second Friday of every month at noon and the fourth Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m.; Flowood Library.; Free.

Jackson Arts Collective Fall Showcase: Fri, Oct 10, 7:00 pm.; The Jackson Arts Collective presents a diverse cross-section of our local arts scene. Rock to rap, dance to poetry, sculpture to photography.; Hal & Mal's.; $5.

Jackson Audubon Society Field Trip: Sat, Oct 11, 8:00 am.; Ten miles of trails wander through the hardwood-covered hills and ravines surrounding the picturesque "ghost town" of Rocky Springs. Located right off the Natchez Trace, this scenic area offers some of the best local opportunities for viewing fall foliage as well as fall migrants. Lead by Adam Rohnke, Wildlife Biologist, and Heather Sullivan, Botanist. Meet at Clinton Visitors' Center.; Clinton Visitors' Center (1300 Pinehaven Rd., Clinton); Free.

OUToberfest: Oct 9 – Oct 12.; The brainchild of Unity Mississippi and the result of an 86% approval rating of a constitutional amendment that intentionally limits marriage between a man and a woman, OUToberfest is a celebration of the Mississippi lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/transexual, and queer community (and our friends) and features many local and national organizations, groups, businesses, artists, musicians and more. It is also the state's first National Coming Out Day celebration of its kind. Details, including performance lineup, to be announced later.; Hal & Mal's.; TBA.

"Ride Around the World": Oct 1 – Oct 12.; Take a ride around the world with cowboys on horseback as they gallop through South America, Candada, and the United States on an unbroken trail that stretches back 1,500 years. Learn about life on the ranch and the role of horses in everyday life.; Russell C. Davis Planetarium.; $6.50 adults, $4 children.

Fine Silver Jewelry Making with Precious Metal Clay 2 - PMC and Enameling: Oct 11 – Oct 12.; In this two day class, students will create an enameled PMC pendant. The first class will be dedicated to the design and creation of a cloisonne' type technique pendant or earrings. In the second class we will discover the unique reaction between your fine silver pendant and fine lead free enamels. In this fun course, instructor Laura Tarbutton will inspire students' creative spirits and take them to the next level. Please note: There will be a $85 materials fee payable to the instructor. $50 of this materials fee (payable to Ms. Tarbutton) must be sent with the registration, and the rest is payable to the instructor at the class. It is non-refundable if you withdraw 10 or fewer days before the class. This fee includes all supplies and the use of the instructor's tools. This class will be held at the instructor's studio in Brandon; a map will be mailed upon registration. Cost: $85 (plus materials fee); Sat., October 11, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. (Bring a sack lunch); and Sun., October 12, 1:00-3:00 p.m.; 2 class meetings. Instructor: Laura Tarbutton; Instructor Studio in Brandon; $85 (plus materials fee).

Love and Healing Fest for Katiffany Andrews: Sun, Oct 12, 5:00 pm.; Maggie Wade and Othor Cain host this event, featuring performances by the Mississippi Mass Choir, the Cathedral AME Zion Choir, Dathan Thigpen, Deja Gray, C. Leigh McInnis and the Daughters of Miriam & The Men of Judah.; Cathedral AME Zion Church (428 Northside Dr.); Free.

Mississippi HeARTS Against AIDS Benefit Dinner: Sun, Oct 12, 6:30 pm.; Charity dinner for MS HeARTS Against AIDS at AJ's Grille in the North Regency Shopping Center on County Line Road in Ridgeland.; AJ's Grille; $70 per plate.

Cruise for Obama: Sun, Oct 12, 6:00 pm.; Join other supporters for the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Presidency aboard the Friendship Boat. Live entertainment and an official campaign spokesperson. Parking located at 111 Harbor Dr., Ridgeland. Seating limited.; 111 Habor Dr., Ridgeland; $100 (you and a guest); VIP $200 (you and a guest).

Introduction to Ballroom Dancing: Sep 22 – Oct 13.; This four week course at Dance Connection Ballroom Dance Center teaches the basics of seven of the most popular social dances: Waltz, Foxtrot, Rumba, Cha-Cha, Tango, and two styles of Swing (Triple Step and Single Step Swing). A map with directions to the studio will be mailed upon registration. Class participants required to wear shoes with leather soles (no tennis shoes, sandals or backless shoes). Singles and couples welcome. Class size limited. Dance instructors will be Mike and Lisa Day, who teach at Dance Connection, central Mississippi's largest and most popular social/ballroom dance studio. Sept. 22-Oct. 13, 7:00-8:00 p.m.; 4 wks.

Beginning Photography: Sep 22 – Oct 13.; This is THE photography class for beginners. You will learn how to operate your camera and compose better photographs. We will cover basic photography principles. Topics include exposure, camera controls, basic composition, lighting, picking the right equipment, and more. This class will be held at Ron Blaylock's new studio in Ridgeland; directions mailed with confirmations. Mon., Sept. 22-Oct. 13, 7:00-8:30 p.m; 4 class mtgs.; Ron Blaylock Studio; $155.

Self Empowerment Class for Women: Sep 23 – Oct 14.; What is life coaching? Come to this class and find out! Learn about coaching techniques and strategies that will equip you with basic tools for coaching yourself through the ups and downs of life.; Clinton, MS; $75.

MAC Poetry Anthology Call for Submissions: Aug 4 – Oct 15.; The editors of The Southern Poetry Anthology now seek submissions for the third in their series, featuring Mississippi poets. The anthology will be published by Texas Review Press. If you are a Mississippi native, or if you have lived in Mississippi for more than one year, please feel free to send up to five poems for consideration.

Acting Techniques Class with Rus Blackwell: Sep 14 – Oct 19.; Rus Blackwell, one of the southeast's most respected actors and sought after acting coaches, is offering a six week acting technique class. The focus of the class is an organic approach to the physical, mental and emotional aspects of the actor's process and it is designed to provide actors with a clear path to specific, honest and emotionally connected work. The class will provide the more experienced actors with an excellent workout as well as a chance to stretch and improve their skills. Those newer to the game will be introduced to techniques that will help craft a solid process and provide a basic foundation. The class consists of technique work, scene study and monologues with some on-camera work.; New Stage Theater.; $230.

Pottery/Sculpture: Sep 23 – Oct 21.; If you have little or no experience in pottery, you will be introduced to throwing and hand building. If you have more than beginning expertise in pottery, you will have an opportunity to work at your own pace. Bring a towel to class and wear old clothes. These classes are limited. This class will be held off-campus at Wishbone Studios. A map will be sent with confirmations. 2 sessions are offered. Please note: A lab fee of $30 for cost of clay, use of tools, glaze and one kiln firing is required and is payable to the instructor at the first class meeting. Cost: $150 per session (plus lab fee); Session I: Tues., September 23-October 21, 6:00-8:00 p.m.; 5 weeks Session II: Wed., April 7-May 5, 6:00-8:00 p.m.; 5 weeks. Instructor: Tom Morrison; Wishbone Studios; $150 per session (plus lab fee).

Jackson State University Faculty Group Show: Sep 18 – Oct 25.; Art from JSU faculty members, including Charles Carraway, Jennifer Bronwynn Copp, Hyun Chong Kim, Chalmers Mayers, Jr., Jimmy Mumford, Christopher Olszewski and Kenyatta Stewart, will be on display.; Mississippi Arts Center.; Free.

Acting Skills for Teens: Sep 22 – Oct 27.; This class for teens interested in acting meets on Mondays for six weeks.; New Stage Theater.; $100.

Belly Dance for Fitness: Sep 22 – Oct 27.; Are you bored with aerobics? Is pilates no longer fun? Or, are you just looking for a new, effective workout? Belly dance is more than a sensuous dance; it’s an excellent form of exercise. You’ll have so much fun dancing that you will hardly realize the great workout you’re getting! Also, women of every age, size and shape will have the opportunity to learn a complete belly dance routine suitable for performance in an optional recital! Hear what some of Janice’s students say about her classes: “Exercise that makes me feel good about my body”; “My co-workers noticed that I lost inches”, “The dancing and exercise were great!”; “Fun!” Please note: Students should bring an exercise mat and wear non-binding clothes. A scarf or veil will be needed for some classes. Cost: $100; Mon., September 22-October 27; 6:30-7:20 p.m.; 6 weeks. Instructor: Janice Jordan; Millsaps College.; $100.

Ecology of the Mind: Sep 22 – Oct 27.; In this class, we will be looking at our own minds. What goes into our mind? What comes out of our mind: We learn powerful tools like mindfulness meditation to gain insight into mind processes. The whole point of the six week course is to improve the ecology of that precious small landscape between our ears. Cost: $90; Mon., September 22-October 27; 6:30-8:00 p.m.; 6 weeks. Instructor: Luke and Charlotte Lundemo; Millsaps College.; $90.

"Ecology of the Mind": Sep 22 – Oct 27.; What goes into the mind? What comes out of the mind? Learn powerful tools like mindfulness meditation to improve the ecology between the ears.; Millsaps College.; $90.

Watercolor Painting: Sep 23 – Oct 28.; This course is for beginning as well as more experienced students. You will have an opportunity to learn different painting techniques and sharpen your creative and technical skills by painting still life and landscape. Composition and use of color will be stressed. Please note: List of supplies needed for the course will be provided upon registration. Session I: Tues., Sept. 23-Oct. 28, 9:00-11:15 a.m.; 6 wks. Session II: Tues., Sept. 23-Oct. 28, 6:00-8:18 p.m.; 6 wks Laurel Schoolar holds a B.F.A. degree from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. She has taught drawing and painting classes, and her works have been exhibited throughout the Southeast.; Millsaps College.; $95 (plus supplies).

Calligraphy, The Art of Beautiful Writing: Sep 23 – Oct 28.; Join calligrapher Betsy Greener and learn everything you need to know to become skilled in calligraphy. In this class, you will receive individual attention and step-by-step instructions. Using the beginner's broad-edged pen, you will reproduce Italic handwriting of the Renaissance. You will delight others with your creations. Don't miss this chance to add some creative style to cards, letters and certificates! Please note: The instructor will have the textbook and supplies needed for the course at the first class meeting. Tues., Sept. 23-Oct. 28, 6:00-7:30 p.m.; 6 wks. Betsy Greener is a wedding/special events calligrapher in the Jackson area.; Millsaps College.; $100 (plus $25 supply fee).

Basics of Portrait Drawing: Sep 24 – Oct 28.; This class will create a fun atmosphere that allows students to learn the basic techniques for drawing faces. With the instruction and help of the teacher, students will draw a facial portrait of their favorite friend or loved one and complete the portrait by the end of the 6-week program. Please note: Supply list mailed upon registration. Tues., Sept. 23-Oct. 28, 6:00-7:30 p.m.; 6 wks. Kelsi D.V. Ward is an artist and photographer. She has studied art as an avocation since high school. She holds a master of public policy and administration degree from Jackson State University and a bachelor of science degree from Fisk University. Her daytime job is Senior Health Planner with the Mississippi State Department of Health.; Millsaps College.; $85 (plus supplies).

Dancing Around the World: Sep 24 – Oct 29.; In this exciting class, the instructor will introduce various styles of dance from around the world, and she will present information about the cultures as well. Dance steps from Egypt, Turkey, India, the Pacific Islands, the Caribbean and Brazil will be taught. In the final class, students will be introduced to American Tribal Fusion, the Americanized form of Improvisation Choreography, which incorporates all of the above. Students learn cues and transitions to create a group dance performance. Kristina Kelly is a Yoga and dance instructor who has registered with Yoga Alliance at the 200 hour level since 2001. Instructor of American Cabaret Bellydance, American Tribal Style and World Fusion Bellydance since 1997. She is director of MissiHIPPY with regular performances at Aladdin's Grill. She has been teaching at Butterfly Yoga for four years. Sept. 24-Oct. 29, 5:30-6:30 p.m.; 6 wks.; $100.

Stoneware Sculptures and Oil Paintings: Sep 3 – Oct 30.; Stoneware sculptures and oil paintings by Helene and Ray Fielder will be on display at the Mississippi Library Commission.; Mississippi Library Commission (3881 Eastwood Dr.); Free.

"The Color Express": Oct 1 – Oct 31.; An exhibit of vivid, expressive paintings from students at ArtWorks Studios.; Cups in Brandon

Miracle of Children's Art: Oct 7 – Oct 31.; Miracle of Children's Art (MOCHA) is a small group art class for children ages 4-12. Classes are offered in 12-week sessions, meeting once a week for 90 minutes. Students create art using a variety of materials and techniques with quality instruction from certified art teacher Shannon Goodwill.; Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St.); Call for a price breakdown..

"African Art and Artifacts": Nov 1 – Oct 31.; Permanent display of African treasures.; Northside Library.

Experimental Watermedia Group: Sep 1 – Oct 31.; This exhibit consists of artwork by twelve artists–Nancy Butkus, Martha Andre, Hazel Bush, JoAnn Burnham, Peggy Edderington, Missy Goff, Donna Parris, Anne Perry, Rose Simmons, Mary Pat Smith, Ruthe Reese and Margo Thomas–created through experiments with media that are water based, such as watercolor, acrylics and inks. Often other mediums are incorporated, such as crayon, fabric and collage. The pieces are on paper as well as canvas. “No rules, no limits,” is the group’s mantra. Fifty Five works of art are on display and all are available for purchase.; Mississippi Arts Center.; Free, but donations welcome.

Everything You've Always Wanted to Know About Mississippi Writers But Were Afraid to Ask: Sep 22 – Nov 3.; Faulkner is known around the world! Miss Welty, likewise. They are followed by Tennessee Williams, Margaret Walker Alexander, and Richard Wright. But what about three other Williams and as many Wilsons? The Ingraham, Percys, Russells, and Lomaxes all come in pairs. Then there is a trio of husband and wife writers. Among our Mississippi writers we have a Nobel Laureate, two dozen Pulitzer Prize winners, a Caldicott Award, half a hundred honorary doctorates, and half again as many earned ones--some languishing in obscurity just waiting to be read. The Magnolia State has more than 2,000 published writers of which to be proud. Here's your chance to discover what you've been missing and to add to your awareness of our bragging rights. Please note: 0.8 CEU for teachers is available for full attendance at this class. An additional $10 will be charged for the CEU certificate. Cost: $120; Mon., September 22-November 3; 6:00-7:15 p.m.; 7 weeks.; Millsaps College.; $120.

George Ohr National Challenge Exhibit: Sep 19 – Nov 7.; National juried exhibit.; Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art.

“Philosophy of Beauty": Oct 6 – Nov 12.; The Lewis Art Gallery features Tad Lauritzen Wright's exhibition “Philosophy of Beauty." Gallery Talk Oct. 15 at noon.; Lewis Art Gallery.; Free.

T'ai Chi (Taiji) - First Level: Sep 25 – Nov 13.; This session of the enrichment series will focus on learning 12 of the 48 T’ai Chi postures. This spring class will cover postures 13-24. Taking the winter session that covered the first 12 postures is not a prerequisite for this class. New students can begin in any of the three enrichment series each year-fall, winter or spring. Participants will learn about and practice Chen family style Taiji with an emphasis on health, stress management, relief from arthritic pain, increased balance, and full range of motion. Warm-up exercises, Wu-ji (a standing form of meditation) a 12 posture form, and finishing exercises will be taught. Cost: $140; Thurs., September 25-November 13, 6:30-8:00 p.m.; 8 weeks. Instructors: Stanley Graham; $140.

Creative Drama for Kids: Sep 20 – Nov 15.; This drama class for children meets on Saturdays for eight weeks, with 1st-3rd graders meeting from 9-10:30 a.m. and 4th-6th graders meeting from 10:30 a.m.-noon.; New Stage Theater.; $150.

First Annual Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival Fiction Writing Contest: Apr 25 – Nov 15.; Judge: Richard Ford Grand prize is $1,500, a VIP Festival Pass ($500 value), Publication in the New Orleans Review, Domestic Airfare and Accommodations to attend the Festival, and a Public Reading Short stories up to 7,000 words Entry Fee: $20, payable to Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival. Unlimited entries per person. Only open to writers who have not yet published a book of fiction. Stories must be previously unpublished. Writing Contest Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival 938 Lafayette Street, Suite 514 New Orleans, LA 70113; $20 entry fee.

Yoga for Everyone: Sep 23 – Dec 9.; Restore, awaken and renew the body, mind and spirit. This yoga class is a blend of postures designed to strengthen muscles, increase flexibility and release stress. You will be introduced to techniques in breath awareness while combining movement and alignment principles to emphasize flexibility and injury prevention. This class will enable the more advanced student to be challenged, while encouraging those new to yoga or looking for a gentler class to participate at their own level. Modifications will be given according to the students' needs. Standing, seated, mild back bends, balancing and relaxation poses will be introduced in a positive and nurturing way. Home practice will be encouraged and supported with handouts and personalized guidance. Please note: Bring a yoga sticky mat and two firm blankets. Mats and blankets can be purchased from local merchants or online. Please come to the class on an empty stomach and wear comfortable clothes. Cost: $140; Tues., September 23-December 9, 6:15-7:30 p.m.; 12 weeks. Instructor: Sally Holly; $140.

The Mississippi Story: Jan 1 – Dec 31.; An exhibition of a selection of works from the museum's permanent collection of over 4000 pieces. This first exhibition of works from the permanent collection in the new museum space focuses on the state's rich artistic heritage. Patti Carr Black is the curator of this exhibition which features work by Walter Anderson, George Ohr, William Dunlap, Eudora Welty, William Eggleston and others.; Mississippi Museum of Art.; Free.

Dinosaurs!: May 24 – Jan 4.; From a Protoceratops with hatchlings to a Tyrannosaurus rex, these robotic dinosaurs are fascinating to children and adults alike. Hear them roar, and watch them feed and care for their young. Learn which beasts may have been fighters and active hunters of other dinosaurs as prey and which creatures fed on tender plants.See the Pteranodon, the prehistoric sky king, whose wingspread was as wide as a soccer goal. Find out which dinosaur had eyes as big as soccer balls and possibly binocular vision. Understand how the horn-faced Triceratops protected itself from attackers and how much time the peaceful Apatosaurus may have spent in the water and why. Kokoro, the company that created the robotic dinosaurs, consults with distinguished paleontologists on all aspects of the creatures� attributes and functioning during development. Each creature is individually handcrafted and computer-programmed.; Mississippi Museum of Natural Science.; $5, various discounts available.

"John James Audubon: American Artist and Naturalist": Sep 20 – Jan 4.; John James Audubon’s work stands as an unsurpassed contribution to the world of fine art, natural science, and American history and literature. This exhibition includes original paintings and 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.; Mississippi Museum of Art.; $5 MMA Members, $7 Non-Members.

"A Painter’s Odyssey: The Art of Marshall Bouldin III": Sep 20 – Jan 4.; Artwork from across the career of the state’s most prominent portrait artist is presented. A full-color publication accompanies the exhibition.; Mississippi Museum of Art.; $5 MMA members, $7 non-members.

Mississippi Watercolor Society Grand National Watercolor Exhibitions: Oct 4 – Jan 4.; This annual presentation includes works from across the country in various water-based mediums, organized in conjunction with the Mississippi Watercolor Society.; Mississippi Museum of Art.; $5 MMA members, $7 non-members.

Poetry Out Loud: Sep 1 – Jan 31.; The Mississippi Arts Commission (MAC) is pleased to partner with the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the Poetry Foundation to present Poetry Out Loud: National Recitation Contest. Poetry Out Loud is a program that encourages high school students to learn about great poetry through memorization, performance and competition. From September 2008 through January 2009, high schools statewide are invited to participate in classroom and school-wide contests, advancing to the forth annual state finals, to be held in Jackson on Friday, March 13, 2009. The state champion will advance to the National Finals held in Washington D.C. April 27-28, 2009. The program requires less than two or three weeks of class time and offers an outstanding educational experience for the students. In order to participate, a school must submit their registration form by December 31, 2008. All registered schools will receive a newly developed training DVD to help them prepare for the competition.

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