Ellington

Monday, Aug. 19

8 a.m.-8 p.m., BarkAID Cut-A-Thon Benefit for Cheshire Abbey at Colorize Hair Studio (272 S. Perkins St., Suite 100, Ridgeland). undefined $20; call 601-624-2783; barkaid.org.

9 a.m., Hinds County Board of Supervisors at Hinds County Chancery Court (316 S. President St.). The board holds its regular meeting, open to the public. Free; call 601-968-6501; co.hinds.ms.us.

4 p.m., Jackson City Council at Jackson City Hall (219 S. President St.). Open to the public. Free; call 601-960-1064; jacksonms.gov.

6 p.m.-7:30 p.m., New Foundation Toastmasters Club #702994 Meeting at Mississippi e-Center at Jackson State University (1230 Raymond Road) in the Nebraska Room. Practice impromptu speaking, active listening, evaluation and leadership skills. Call for information on membership dues; call 601-502-8402 or 601-896-4400; email [email protected]; find "NewFoundation Linda Hartwell" on Facebook.

6:30 p.m., Eat Y'all Chef's Table at Fairview Inn (734 Fairview St.). Enjoy a seven-course meal from chefs Gary Hawkins, Karl Gorline, Johnny Gunbarrel and Ryan Bell in honor of National Catfish Month. Reservations required. $65; call 228-493-6555; eatyall.com.

Tuesday, Aug. 20

noon-1 p.m., "Guess Who's Talking Now" Toastmasters Club 3284 Meetings at Woolfolk Building (501 N. West St.). The group meets from noon-1 p.m. Tuesdays in the conference room on the first floor. Improve your communication skills, and become a better speaker and leader. Membership required. Free to visitors; call 601-359-6653 or 601-359-2573.

5 p.m.-8 p.m., Julep Fundraising Night for Bike Walk Mississippi at Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105). Donations welcome; call 362-1411; facebook.com/events/271179159673748/.

5:15 p.m., Public Policy Toastmasters Club 8689 Meeting at Universities Center (3825 Ridgewood Road). The group meets on first and third Tuesdays at 5:15 p.m. in the computer lab. Improve your communication skills, and become a better speaker and leader. Membership required. Call for details on membership dues; call 601-540-8472 or 601-432-6277.

6 p.m., "Dog Days of Summer" Wine Tasting at Anjou Restaurant (361 Township Ave., Ridgeland). $16 plus tax and tip; call 601-707-0587; anjourestaurant.net.

6:30 p.m.-9 p.m., "Fed Up" Dinner Theater at Kismet's Restaurant and Catering (315 Crossgates Blvd., Brandon). The Detectives Mystery Dinner Theatre presents the comedy. Includes a three-course meal. For ages 18 and up. RSVP. $39; call 601-937-1752; thedetectives.biz.

Wednesday, Aug. 21

noon, History Is Lunch at William F. Winter Archives and History Building (200 North St.). Author Steve Yates reads from his new book "Some Kinds of Love: Stories." Free; call 601-576-6998.

6 p.m.-7 p.m., Downtown Jackson Toastmasters at Plaza Building (120 N. Congress St.) on the 12th floor in the Common Room. Learn to communicate better in front of groups and with peers. Call for membership information. Free; call 601-940-5247; email [email protected]; http://1275010.toastmastersclubs.org/.

7 p.m., Hinds County Human Resource Agency Meeting Hinds County Human Resource Agency (258 Maddox Road). The Board of Directors meets on third Wednesdays. Open to the public; Hinds County residents encouraged to attend. Free; call 601-923-1838.

Thursday, Aug. 22

9 a.m.,MEGA Open 5D Barrel Race at Kirk Fordice Equine Center (1207 Mississippi St.). Watch riders compete in several categories for cash prizes. Free; call 901-726-8994 or 901-626-8993; lanbarbarrelracing.com.

9 a.m., COMSTAT Meeting at Jackson Police Department Headquarters (327 E. Pascagoula St.). The JPD shares the latest Jackson crime statistics at the biweekly meeting. Open to the public. Free; call 601-960-1375; jacksonms.gov.

5:30 p.m., Precinct 4 COPS Meeting at Redeemer Church (640 E. Northside Drive). These monthly forums are designed to help resolve community issues or problems, from crime to potholes. Free; call 601-960-0004.

5:30 p.m.-7 p.m., Women for Progress Live Radio Broadcast at WMPR 90.1 FM and wmpr901.com . Dorothy Stewart and Willie Jones host the program. Topics include education, economics and politics. Call-ins welcome at 601-948-5950. Free; call 601-918-5137.

6 p.m.-7 p.m., Solving the Mystery of Pelvic Pain at Baptist Health Systems, Madison Campus (401 Baptist Drive, Madison). In the Community Room. Dr. Paul Moore discusses causes and treatment options. Registration required. Refreshments served. Free; call 601-948-6262; mbhs.org.

6 p.m.-8 p.m., Mississippi Jazz Foundation Social Mixer at Arts Center of Mississippi (201 E. Pascagoula St.). Enjoy live music, food and door prizes, and learn how to become involved with the foundation. Free; call 601-594-2314; missjazzfoundation.com.

6 p.m.-9 p.m., Saving Grace: A Benefit for Grace House at St. James Episcopal Church (3921 Oakridge Drive). At Fowler Hall. Enjoy tapas-style refreshments and music from Cassandra Wilson, Bill and Temperance, James Martin and Latinismo! Wine and beer sold. Proceeds go toward renovations at Grace House, a home for people living with HIV and AIDS. $35 in advance, $40 at the door; call 601-540-8447; email [email protected].

7 p.m., Samuel Adams Beer Dinner at Nick's Restaurant (3000 Old Canton Road). Enjoy a five-course meal paired with four Samuel Adams beers such as Cherry Wheat and Boston Lager. Reservations required. $45; call 601-981-8017; nicksrestaurant.com.

Friday, Aug. 23

8 a.m.-4:15 p.m., Manage Your Ethical and Cultural Risks at Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood). The ethical and cultural diversity education seminar is for professional social workers. Six CEU credits available for licensed workers. Registration required. $90-$145; call 601-936-0557; naswmschapter.org.

9 a.m., MEGA Open 5D Barrel Race at Kirk Fordice Equine Center (1207 Mississippi St.). Watch riders compete in several categories for cash prizes. Free; call 901-726-8994 or 901-626-8993; lanbarbarrelracing.com.

11:45 a.m.-1 p.m., Do You "Kneed" a New Joint? at Baptist Health Systems, Madison Campus (401 Baptist Drive, Madison). In the Community Room. Dr. Jeff Almand talks about advancements in knee replacement. Registration required. Refreshments served. Free, $5 optional lunch; call 601-948-6262; mbhs.org.

7 p.m., Dance with the Stars at Country Club of Jackson (345 St. Andrews Drive). The competition pairs local celebrities with dance instructors. Includes dinner, and music from the Jackson All-Stars, John Christopher Adams and Tyler Kemp. Attire is formal. Benefits the Mississippi Opera Foundation. $150, $1200 table of eight, $1500 table of 10; call 601-960-2300 or 877-MS-OPERA; msopera.org.

Saturday, Aug. 24

8 a.m.-11 a.m., I'm Beautiful Breakfast at Hilton Jackson (1001 E. County Line Road). The purpose of the event for women is to encourage and empower. The speaker is author Marjorie Lewis ("Pain NO More Too"). Attire is casual or summer beach wear. RSVP. Free; call 601-953-5747; email [email protected].

8 a.m.-11 a.m., Cruising the Community at Jackson State University (1400 John R. Lynch St.). At Lee E. Williams Athletic and Assembly Center. Children ages 5-12 ride anything with wheels during the 1.2-mile ride (no motors). Actor Roscoe Orman (Gordon from "Sesame Street") reads from his book "Ricky & Mobo" and sings. Registration required. Free; call 601-979-5828; email [email protected]; jsums.edu/cubd/cruising.

8 a.m.-6 p.m., Health Fair and Community Festival at Zion Chapel AME Zion Church (361 Robinson Road, Canton). Includes a 5K walk and one-mile fun run at 8 a.m., a health fair from 9 a.m.-noon and a festival from noon-6 p.m. Enjoy games, entertainment, water slides, a space jump, a mechanical bull, horseback riding, vendors and more. Free;

9 a.m.-3 p.m., Small Business Development, Access to Capital and Contracting Opportunities Conference at Alcorn State University (1000 ASU Drive, Lorman). At the ASU Extension Research Complex. The focus of the conference is the state of the local economic environment, operational integrity, regulatory compliance and access to capital for small businesses. Registration required. Free; call 601-877-6151; email [email protected] ; alcorn.edu/sbaconference.

9 a.m.-6 p.m., Mississippi Craft Show at Mississippi Trade Mart (1200 Mississippi St.). Mississippi artisans sell items such as pottery, jewelry, photography and furniture. Concessions sold. Proceeds benefit the Animal Rescue Fund (ARF), a no-kill shelter, and animals will be on site for adoption. $5 at the door (cash only), children 12 and under free; call 601-790-0654; mscraftshow.com.

10 a.m.-2 p.m., Virginia College Friends and Family Fall Festival at Virginia College (5841 Ridgewood Road). Attendees learn about the educational opportunities available at the college. Includes a tour, refreshments, door prizes, giveaways and family-friendly aactivities. Current and former students are encouraged to attend. Free; call 601-977-0960; vc.edu/jackson.

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Youth Know Your Rights Workshop and Convening at Metrocenter Mall (1395 Metrocenter Drive). Topics include the Trayvon Martin trial, law enforcement engagement and images of black youth in the media. Lunch included. For youth only. RSVP. Free; call 601-398-3441, 601-354-3408 or 334-322-8218; email [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected] ; tinyurl.com/NotHereNeverAgainMS.

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Dog Days of Summer at Pelahatchie Shore Park (Lakeshore Drive, Brandon). The annual fundraiser for Community Animal Rescue and Adoption (CARA) includes food, entertainment, craft vendors, a pet parade and microchipping ($35). Dog food or cat litter donations required to enter; call 601-842-4404; email [email protected]; carams.org.

10 a.m.-4 p.m., Pink the Runway Model Casting Call at Posh Boutique (4312 N. State St.). Men and women welcome. Bring a non-returnable head shot. Free; call 364-2244; email [email protected].

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Prevention of Schoolhouse to Jailhouse Coalition Convening at Metrocenter Mall (1395 Metrocenter Drive). Attendees discuss youth justice issues and ways to address them. RSVP. Free; call 601-573-3978, 601-214-7975, 601-354-3408, ext. 104 or 334-322-8218; email [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected]; tinyurl.com/PSHJHConvening.

11 a.m.-2 p.m., Millsaps Day in Fondren in Fondren . Students, alumni, faculty and staff explore what the Fondren neighborhood has to offer. Includes kids' activities and live music. Wear a Millsaps T-shirt and bring your student ID for discounts. Free transportation from the Fondren Trolley. Free; millsaps.edu.

11 a.m.-4 p.m., "Breaking into Hollywood: How to Get Started" Actors Creative Workshop at Dreamz JXN (426 W. Capitol St.). Experts Edelia "Dr. Jay" Carthan and Shermel "Mr. Hollywood" Carthan are the speakers. Topics include head shots, avoiding scams and insider tips. Limited seating; registration required. All ages and sizes welcome. $100; call 662-528-6997; email [email protected]; raphaelagency.eventbrite.com.

12:30 p.m.-4 p.m., Shake, Rattle and Roll Sock Hop Fundraiser at Chateau Ridgeland (745 S. Pear Orchard Road, Ridgeland). The party includes a dance contest, music from Lucky 7, a costume contest and food. Proceeds benefit Outward Bound for Veterans, a nonprofit dedicated to helping returning veterans readjust to civilian life. Donations welcome; call 601-956-1331.

1 p.m., MEGA Open 5D Barrel Race at Kirk Fordice Equine Center (1207 Mississippi St.). Watch riders compete in several categories for cash prizes. Free; call 901-726-8994 or 901-626-8993; lanbarbarrelracing.com.

2 p.m.-5 p.m., Mothers, Daughters & Sisters - Connected In Christ Ladies Seminar at God's Refuge Christian Fellowship Center (1931 Boling St.). Speakers include Pastor Gwen Richardson of Nu Vision Worship Center International in Jackson and Pastor Sharon Johnson of Tabernacle of Mercy Church International in Columbus. Free; call 769-218-9450; godrefugecfcc.org.

4 p.m.-5:30 p.m., Sick and Tired, and Seeking SOULutions at Afrikan Arts and Culture Studio (612 N. Farish St.). Our Community Against Racism hosts the forum on second Saturdays. The focus of the monthly forum is to provide African-centered cultural enrichment and work toward racial equality. Refreshments served. Free; call 601-979-1413 or 601-918-5075.

6 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Tailgating with Hospice Angels Foundation at Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum (1152 Lakeland Drive). Wear your team colors to the fundraising event with a football theme. Tour the museum and participate in raffles for football tickets, NFL autographed items and more. $25, $5 ages 5 and under; call 982-8264; email [email protected].

Sunday, Aug. 25

11 a.m.-4 p.m., Mississippi Craft Show at Mississippi Trade Mart (1200 Mississippi St.). Mississippi artisans sell items such as pottery, jewelry, photography and furniture. Concessions sold. Proceeds benefit the Animal Rescue Fund (ARF), a no-kill shelter, and animals will be on site for adoption. $5 at the door (cash only), children 12 and under free; call 601-790-0654; mscraftshow.com.

noon-5 p.m.,Dog Day Afternoons at Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.). Bring your dog to the Art Garden for an afternoon of play. Free; call 601-960-1515; msmuseumart.org.

Monday, Aug. 26

6 p.m.-7:30 p.m., New Foundation Toastmasters Club #702994 Meetings at Mississippi e-Center at Jackson State University (1230 Raymond Road) in the Nebraska Room. Practice impromptu speaking, active listening, evaluation and leadership skills. Call for information on membership dues; call 601-502-8402 or 601-896-4400; email [email protected]; find "NewFoundation Linda Hartwell" on Facebook.

6 p.m.-9 p.m., Battle of the Bartenders at The South (627 E. Silas Brown St.). Local bartenders mix Cathead Vodka-based cocktails for a panel of judges. Attendees sample the cocktails and vote on their favorite. Enjoy music, heavy hors d'oeuvres and a silent auction. Benefits the Mississippi Burn Foundation. For ages 21 and up. $40 in advance, $50 at the door; call 601-540-2995; email [email protected]; battleofthebartendersseasontwo.eventbrite.com.

6:30 p.m., Margarita Dinner at Sombra Mexican Kitchen (Township at Colony Park, 140 Township Ave, Suite 100, Ridgeland). Sample four fruity margaritas, including watermelon and pineapple, along with three appetizers such as guacamole bruschetta. RSVP encouraged but not required. $30; call 601-707-7950; sombramexicankitchen.com.

Ongoing

Computer Courses for Adults Monday-Friday at Hinds Community College, Raymond Campus (501 E. Main St., P.O. Box 1100, Raymond). Classes usually meet once a week for four to eight weeks, and fees depend on the level and type of class. Free; call 601-857-3773; email [email protected].

Senior Aides Program Monday-Friday. The city of Jackson offers the part-time job program to low-income seniors ages 55 and up. Receive assistance in finding a job during the training process. Applicants must have state ID, a Social Security card, proof of income and a utility bill. Free; call 601-960-0335.

through Sept. 6, Sweat Equity Investment in the Cotton Kingdom Symposium and Cotton Pickers Ball Call for Papers Monday-Friday at House of Khafre (103/105 Main St., Indianola). undefined Free; call 662-347-8198; khafreinc.org.

through Sept. 15, Teacher Education Scholars Program Call for Applications Monday-Friday at mississippi.edu/rHuqP . Incoming or current college students who plan to become teachers may apply for the $15,000 award. Applicants must have an ACT score of 28, a GPA of 3.5 and agree to teach in a Mississippi public school for five years. Free; call 601-432-6997 or 800-327-2980; email [email protected]; mississippi.edu/rHuqP.

through Sept. 9, Mississippi Jump$tart Coalition Poster and Essay Contest Monday-Friday at msjumpstart.org . The theme is "Get Smart About Credit," and students in grades 9-12 may participate. Submissions must be postmarked no later than Sept. 9. The first-place winner receives a $1,000 scholarship, and the second-place winner receives a $500 scholarship. Free; call 601-665-0447; email [email protected]; msjumpstart.org.

through Dec. 18, Adult Basic Education/GED Program Monday-Friday at Hinds Community College in Jackson, Raymond, Utica and Vicksburg . People who aspire to earn a high school equivalency certificate may register for orientation and testing before the GED price and testing format changes in 2014. Call or go online for specifics. Free Adult Basic Education courses, $75 GED testing fee; call 601-857-3912; hindscc.edu.

through April 30, Common Core After Hours Learning and Readiness Program Monday-Friday, 2:30 p.m.-6 p.m. at PERICO Institute (Jackson Medical Mall, 350 W. Woodrow Ave., Suite 300). The weekly program for children in grades K-12 includes English and language arts, math, science, and music and art appreciation. Registration required. Light snack included. $50 per week; call 769-251-1408; priydems.com.