First NBC Bank buying State-Investors Bank for about $51M - Mississippi Business Journal (blog)

by Associated Press

Published: December 31,2014

Tags: Business, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Orleans, NEWS

NEW ORLEANS — First NBC Bank Holding Co. says it’s buying State-Investors Bank and expects to pay about $51 million to stockholders of State Investors Bancorp Inc.

A news release says First NBC expects to pay about $49 million for 2.3 million shares of stock and about $2 million for 221,600 stock options outstanding as of Tuesday.

Both boards have approved the deal, which needs regulatory approval.

The statement uesday described State-Investors as a 120-year-old bank with deep community roots, a strong and proven credit history and commitment to customer service.

First NBC has 32 banking offices in the New Orleans area and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and a loan office in Gulfport, Mississippi.

State-Investors Bank has four full service offices in the New Orleans metro area.

To sign up for Mississippi Business Daily Updates, click here.

BOOKBIZ — Looking back at our favorite books reviewed in 2014

Posey not running for re-election to Miss. PSC

First NBC Bank buying State-Investors Bank for about $51M - Mississippi Business Journal (blog)

by Associated Press

Published: December 31,2014

Tags: Business, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Orleans, NEWS

NEW ORLEANS — First NBC Bank Holding Co. says it’s buying State-Investors Bank and expects to pay about $51 million to stockholders of State Investors Bancorp Inc.

A news release says First NBC expects to pay about $49 million for 2.3 million shares of stock and about $2 million for 221,600 stock options outstanding as of Tuesday.

Both boards have approved the deal, which needs regulatory approval.

The statement uesday described State-Investors as a 120-year-old bank with deep community roots, a strong and proven credit history and commitment to customer service.

First NBC has 32 banking offices in the New Orleans area and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and a loan office in Gulfport, Mississippi.

State-Investors Bank has four full service offices in the New Orleans metro area.

To sign up for Mississippi Business Daily Updates, click here.

BOOKBIZ — Looking back at our favorite books reviewed in 2014

Posey not running for re-election to Miss. PSC

First NBC Bank buying State-Investors Bank for about $51M - Mississippi Business Journal (blog)

by Associated Press

Published: December 31,2014

Tags: Business, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Orleans, NEWS

NEW ORLEANS — First NBC Bank Holding Co. says it’s buying State-Investors Bank and expects to pay about $51 million to stockholders of State Investors Bancorp Inc.

A news release says First NBC expects to pay about $49 million for 2.3 million shares of stock and about $2 million for 221,600 stock options outstanding as of Tuesday.

Both boards have approved the deal, which needs regulatory approval.

The statement uesday described State-Investors as a 120-year-old bank with deep community roots, a strong and proven credit history and commitment to customer service.

First NBC has 32 banking offices in the New Orleans area and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and a loan office in Gulfport, Mississippi.

State-Investors Bank has four full service offices in the New Orleans metro area.

To sign up for Mississippi Business Daily Updates, click here.

BOOKBIZ — Looking back at our favorite books reviewed in 2014

Posey not running for re-election to Miss. PSC

First NBC Bank buying State-Investors Bank for about $51M - Mississippi Business Journal (blog)

by Associated Press

Published: December 31,2014

Tags: Business, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Orleans, NEWS

NEW ORLEANS — First NBC Bank Holding Co. says it’s buying State-Investors Bank and expects to pay about $51 million to stockholders of State Investors Bancorp Inc.

A news release says First NBC expects to pay about $49 million for 2.3 million shares of stock and about $2 million for 221,600 stock options outstanding as of Tuesday.

Both boards have approved the deal, which needs regulatory approval.

The statement uesday described State-Investors as a 120-year-old bank with deep community roots, a strong and proven credit history and commitment to customer service.

First NBC has 32 banking offices in the New Orleans area and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and a loan office in Gulfport, Mississippi.

State-Investors Bank has four full service offices in the New Orleans metro area.

To sign up for Mississippi Business Daily Updates, click here.

BOOKBIZ — Looking back at our favorite books reviewed in 2014

Posey not running for re-election to Miss. PSC

First NBC Bank buying State-Investors Bank for about $51M - Mississippi Business Journal (blog)

by Associated Press

Published: December 31,2014

Tags: Business, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Orleans, NEWS

NEW ORLEANS — First NBC Bank Holding Co. says it’s buying State-Investors Bank and expects to pay about $51 million to stockholders of State Investors Bancorp Inc.

A news release says First NBC expects to pay about $49 million for 2.3 million shares of stock and about $2 million for 221,600 stock options outstanding as of Tuesday.

Both boards have approved the deal, which needs regulatory approval.

The statement uesday described State-Investors as a 120-year-old bank with deep community roots, a strong and proven credit history and commitment to customer service.

First NBC has 32 banking offices in the New Orleans area and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and a loan office in Gulfport, Mississippi.

State-Investors Bank has four full service offices in the New Orleans metro area.

To sign up for Mississippi Business Daily Updates, click here.

BOOKBIZ — Looking back at our favorite books reviewed in 2014

Posey not running for re-election to Miss. PSC

First NBC Bank buying State-Investors Bank for about $51M - Mississippi Business Journal (blog)

by Associated Press

Published: December 31,2014

Tags: Business, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Orleans, NEWS

NEW ORLEANS — First NBC Bank Holding Co. says it’s buying State-Investors Bank and expects to pay about $51 million to stockholders of State Investors Bancorp Inc.

A news release says First NBC expects to pay about $49 million for 2.3 million shares of stock and about $2 million for 221,600 stock options outstanding as of Tuesday.

Both boards have approved the deal, which needs regulatory approval.

The statement uesday described State-Investors as a 120-year-old bank with deep community roots, a strong and proven credit history and commitment to customer service.

First NBC has 32 banking offices in the New Orleans area and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and a loan office in Gulfport, Mississippi.

State-Investors Bank has four full service offices in the New Orleans metro area.

To sign up for Mississippi Business Daily Updates, click here.

BOOKBIZ — Looking back at our favorite books reviewed in 2014

Posey not running for re-election to Miss. PSC

What's Happening for JANUARY - SunHerald

Send calendar items to mynews@sunherald.com or fax to 896-2104.

FRIDAY

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Lowe's, 2151 John Hill Blvd., Gulfport. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code LOWESGULFPORT.

Ice skating: 6 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 2; 3:30, 6 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 3; 2, 4:30 and 7 p.m. Jan. 4, Mississippi Coast Coliseum, Biloxi, for 90-minute sessions. Tickets, which include skate rental while supplies last, can be purchased at the box office 30 minutes prior to each session. Details: 594-3707.

Steak dinner: 6:30-8 p.m., Ocean Springs Elks Lodge 2501, 2501 Beachview Drive. Cost: $18 grilled steaks, $12 fish. Details: 872-2501.

Ribeye steak dinner: 6-8 p.m., VFW Post 6731, 4321 W. Gay Road, D'Iberville. Cost: $15. Details: 392-1152.

Sweater Swap dance: 8-10 p.m., Amour Danzar, 9355 County Farm Road, Gulfport. Cost: $10. Bring an unwanted sweater to swap. Details: 324-3730.

SATURDAY

Holiday wreath and floral pickup: 8 a.m., Biloxi National Cemetery, 400 Veterans Ave., Biloxi. The public is invited to assist the cemetery by picking up artificial holiday wreaths and floral arrangements on headstones for storage until next year. Details: 388-6668.

Red Cross blood drive: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Knights of Columbuss Hall, 22424 Mississippi 603, Kiln. In honor of Misty Daniels. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code MISTY.

Make a Ceramic Mardi Gras Mask workshop: 10:30-11 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.-noon, Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Work on clay Mardi Gras masks. Designed for ages 2-7. Cost: $10 per mask. Details: 374-5547.

Electric Masquerade Music Experience: 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Mississippi Coast Coliseum, 2350 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Features live music, art and Carnival with cultural and tradition. Showcases 50 artists and entertainers performing pop, rock, hip hop, rap, EDM and Indie music. Proceeds benefit Make-A-Wish Mississippi. Cost: $35 or $85 VIP. Details: 800-726-2781 or 594-3700.

Make a Ceramic Mardi Gras Mask workshop, adult session: 1-4 p.m., Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Work on clay mardi gras masks and add feathers, beads and jewels. Designed for ages 14 and older. Cost: $20 per mask. Details: 374-5547.

Gulf Coast Stamp Club meeting: 2:30 p.m., St. Martin Public Library, LeMoyne Boulevard. Details: gulfcoaststampclub@gmail.com.

Downton Abbey on the Coast: 2 and 7 p.m. free screening, 5:30 p.m. cocktail reception, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Hosted by the Mississippi Public Broadcasting Foundation and Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. Wine pairings and appetizers. Features preview of "Downton Abbey, Season 5." Tickets: $50 per person. 1920s attire encouraged for costume contest. Photo cost: $5 per print. Details/tickets: http://ift.tt/1tlmYho.

Winter Wonderland dinner and dance: 6 p.m. swing lessons, 7 p.m. country lessons, 8 p.m. dinner, Amour Danzar, 9355 County Farm Road, Gulfport. Dress in your country best. Cost: $10 swing lessons, $10 country lessons. Dinner reservations are available for $10, $20 or $30. Details: 324-3730.

Belles & Buoys Square Dance event and meeting: 7 p.m. meeting, 8-10 p.m. dance, Lyman Senior Citizen Center, 14592 County Farm Road, Gulfport. Details: 831-3127.

SUNDAY

VFW Post 6731 breakfast: 8-11 a.m., 4321 W. Gay Road, D'Iberville. Cost: $6. Details: 392-1152.

Ocean Springs Elks Lodge 2501 breakfast: 9-11 a.m., 2501 Beachview Drive. Cost: $6. Details: 872-2501.

MONDAY

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6:30 p.m., Edgewater Mall, in space next to Belks' south mall entrance, 2600 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code EWMALL.

Twelfth Night: 5 p.m., Biloxi Visitors Center, 1050 Beach Blvd. Parade begins at Biloxi Visitor Center and parading to the Mardi Gras Museum. Event serves as a reminder of religious significance of Carnival. Following the parade is the reigning Royal Court of Gulf Coast Carnival Association will be presented to extinguish Christmas lights at the Biloxi Lighthouse. Details: 374-3105.

American Legion Post 1992 Ladies Auxiliary meeting: 6:30 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

VFW Post 6731 meeting: 7 p.m., 4321 W. Gay Road, D'Iberville. Details: 392-1152.

TUESDAY

At Ease Gang meeting: 7 a.m., Treasure Bay Casino, Infinity Buffet, 1980 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Guest speaker: Susan Guillory, Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System. Details: 214-6018.

Beaded Jewelry workshop: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Cost: $35 member per session, $45 nonmembers per session, cost includes lunch in the cafe. Instructor: Shirley Cahela. Details: 818-2878.

Homeschool Clay Play: 10:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays, through Jan. 27, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $12 per student per class. Theme: Slab work and castle building. Future weekly themes include mixed-media Mardi Gras masks, pottery wheel fun and ceramic sculpture. All ages welcome. Instruction glazes and firing are included. Details: 374-5547.

Red Cross blood drive: 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Chick-fil-A, 3842 Promenade Parkway, D'Iberville. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code CHICKFILADIB.

NAACP Gulfport Branch Installation/Oath of Office ceremony and reception: 6-6:45 p.m., Isiah Fredericks Community Center, 3312 Martin Luther King Blvd., Gulfport. Details: 896-6316.

Drawing class: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays for four weeks, Gail Keenan Art Center at Coast Episcopal School, 5065 Espy Ave., Long Beach. Cost: $75 includes tools and supplies. Details: 234-1610.

WEDNESDAY

Computer graphics class: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Pass Christian Public Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Instructor: John Giesemann from Mississippi State University Extension Center for Technology Outreach. One-hour lunch break. Newsletters creation, graphics, Microsoft Word and more. Class size limited. Free. Preregistration encouraged. Details: 452-4596 or passchristianlibrary@gmail.com.

Painting class: Drawing class: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays for four weeks, Gail Keenan Art Center at Coast Episcopal School, 5065 Espy Ave., Long Beach. Cost:$80 includes tools and supplies. Details: 234-1610.

Basic Knitting: 6-8 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Cost: $30 member, $40 nonmembers. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Details: 818-2878.

Sons of the American Legion Post 1992 meeting: 6:30 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

JAN. 8

Blood drive: 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Biloxi Regional Hospital, 150 Reynoir Drive. Donors receive a T-shirt. Details: 888-902-5663 or msblood.com.

Beginning wheel throwing: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Thursdays for four weeks, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $125 for four weeks includes instruction, 20 pounds of recycled clay and use of basic studio glazes. Ages 14 and older. Throwing skills with bowls and cylinders. Introductory level class. Details: 374-5547.

Pass Christian Garden Club: Noon, Pass Christian Public Library, conference room, 111 Hiern Ave. Speaker: Robert Brzuszek, profesor of landscape architecture at Mississippi State University. Topic: Crosby Arboretum. Copies of his book "The Crosby Arboretum-A Sustainable Regional Landscape" will be available for purchase. Refreshments will be served. Details: 452-4596.

Think Like an Entrepreneur class: 5:30-7:30 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

American Legion Post 1992 executive committee meeting: 6-7 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

Inaugural Film Festival: 6-9 p.m., University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Park Campus, Long Beach. Screening of documentary, "Aboveboard-Port of the Future" followed by a panel discussion. Features Francisco Gonzalez and Elaine Stevens, producers of film; Rose Johnson, award winning environmental activist; Howard Page, Port Campaign organizer; and James Smith, professor emeritus of History. Details: 234-5582.

JAN. 9

Mudslingers: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Jan. 9, 17 and 31, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25. Designed for ages 14 and older. Pottery on the wheel with two pots, wear old clothes. Details: 374-5547.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Chick-fil-A, 11001 U.S. 49, Gulfport. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code CHICKFILAGPORT.

Ocean Springs Elks Lodge 2501 baked or fried fish dinner: 5-7:30 p.m., 2501 Beachview Drive. Cost: $10. Details: 872-2501.

"Jesus Christ-Superstar" auditions: 6:30 p.m. Jan. 9, 2:30 p.m. Jan. 10, Nancy School of Dance, 11010 Lamey Bridge Road, D'Iberville. Production schedule for April 10-12. Audition includes one-minute song and short dance. Details: 314-4612.

JAN. 10

Second Saturday Bike Ride: 8 a.m., Beach Park, Pascagoula. Details: 938-2356.

Martin Luther King Jr. Town Hall meeting: 8 a.m. doors open, 8:30 a.m. breakfast followed by panel discussion. D'Iberville Senior Citizen Center, 10450 Lamey Bridge Road. Speakers: Nancy Loome, Mississippi Adequate Education Program; Shane Switzer, Biloxi Public Schools; Deeneaus Polk, Policy Analyst for the Mississippi Economic Policy Center' and Jarvis Polk, Mississippi Health Advocacy Program. Topics of discussion: access to healthcare, medicaid expansion and Mississippi Adequate Education Program. RSVP encouraged. Details: 872-7618.

Third annual Frosty Kroc Run: 8:30 a.m. one-mile run, 9 a.m. 10K and 10K stroller run and 9:15 a.m. 5K and 5K stroller, The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 575 Division St., Biloxi. Cost: $20 adults, $15 children includes Tshirt. Hosted by the Salvation Army Kroc Center. Details: 207-1218.

Your Movement-Your Time Youth Summit: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Jackson County Campus. Interactive seminars and trainings geared toward youth activism. Details: 234-5582.

Pine Needle Basketry workshop: 9:30 a.m.-noon, Crosby Arboretum, 370 Ridge Road, Picayune. Instructor: Judy Breland. Learn methods for basket work. Wear old clothes. Material provided. Cost: $5 members, $7 nonmembers. Details: 601-799-2311.

Teen Art -- Play on the Pottery Wheel: 10:30-12:30 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25 per student. Designed for ages 8-16. Details: 374-5547.

American Legion Oratorical High School Scholarship contest: 11 a.m., St. John's Episcopal Church, at the corner of Porter and Rayburn Avenue. Contest is conducted at local, district and state level. Purpose of contest is to develop basic knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United State in high school students. Hosted by the Emile Ladnier American Legion Post 42 of Ocean Springs. Each contestant will speak 8-10 minutes on their prepared oration. Winners proceed to Indianapolis, Ind. to compete nationally. Details: 547-3792 or 547-3797.

Beekeeping school: 2-5 p.m. Jan. 10 and 17, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Jackson County Campus, Gautier. Lectures and handouts for those interested in keeping bees. Lectures cover what is needed and steps to keep bees. Mentors available for questions at all meeting. Details: 249-4115.

Tango Night at the Beau Rivage: 7 p.m.-midnight, Beau Rivage Casino, 875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Fundraiser benefits the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra. Features honoree Nyron Marshall and other professional tango dancers from all over the U.S. Cost: $75 includes two drink tickets and heavy hors d'oeuvres. Details/tickets: gulfcoastsymphony.net or 896-4276.

Town Mountain-Arts Under the Dome: 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 2301 15th St., Gulfport. Cost: $15 general admission, $10 students. Details: 229-6851 or 863-0047.

JAN. 11

Fundraiser meal for Tony Shields, a St. Alphonsus School employee: 10-2:30 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 421 Washington Ave., Ocean Springs. Proceeds will benefit Tony Shields' family and the medical expenses for their 11-year-old son. Cost: $6 per person or $20 for a family of four to six people.

English/Italian mass and homemade Italian lunch: 11:30 a.m. mass, 12:30-2 p.m. lunch. St. Thomas the Apostle, 720 E. Beach Blvd., Long Beach. Offering collection benefits St. Vincent de Paul Society. Tickets: $12 adults, $6 children ages 4-12. Presented by the Gulf Coast Italian American Cultural Society. Details: 539-4571.

JAN. 12

American Legion Post 1992 meeting: 7-8 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

JAN. 13

Red Cross blood drive: 8 a.m.-1 p.m., IP Casino, Resort and Spa. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code IPCASINO.

Coastal Mexican Fusion cooking class: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Presented by Chef Sarah Cormier of the Beau Rivage. Make homemade salsa, nachos and more. Cost: $30 members, $35 nonmembers. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

When Women Talk Forum-Women on the Move: 6:30 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Speakers: Karen Sock, Sock Enterprises, Angel Greer, Coastal Family Health Center, Shundral Cole, federal prosecutor and Dixie Newman, Biloxi city Council Ward 3. Details: 234-5582.

JAN. 14

Mississippi Economic Council's Regional Round-Up Jackson County meeting: 7:30-9 a.m., Hilton Garden Inn, Pascagoula. Co-hosted by Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, Jackson County Economic Development Foundation Inc. and the Mississippi Gulf Coast Business Council. Highlighting the strengths of the regions. Details: mec.ms.

Craft Beer Tasting: 6-9 p.m., Walter Anderson Museum of Art, 510 Washington Ave., Ocean Springs. Featuring Chandeleur Brewing Co., Crooked Letter Brewing Co. and Lazy Magnolia. Live entertainment, must be 21 or older to attend. Cost: $15 nonmembers, $10 members. New members are free. Limited tickets. Details: development@walterandersonmuseum.org.

JAN. 15

Red Cross blood drive: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Coast Radio Group, 10250 Lorriane Road, Gulfport. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code CRGIVE.

Veterans caregiver conference: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Biloxi VA Medical Center, 400 Veterans Ave., Recreational Hall, building 17. Provide caregivers with guidance on how to care for themselves and deal with daily activities. Theme: Managing Difficult Decisions and Long Term Planning. Light lunch provided courtesy of Gentiva Hospice. Additional topics include caregiver stress management, transitions of care, end of life care and meaningful activities at home. Parking and shuttles available for attendees. Details/RSVP: 601-987-0020 or 523-5110.

Retired Senior Group luncheon: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Jefferson Davis cafeteria executive dining room. Speaker: David Manasco, Southern Mississippi Area Agency on Aging. Theme: Medicare Program Changes in 2015 and how his agency can help. Details: 896-2549.

Starting a Business--First Steps class: 5:30-7:30 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

An Evening of Poetry and Jazz-Movement with Words: 6-9 p.m., University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Park Campus, Hardy Ballroom, 730 E. Beach Blvd., Long Beach. Sponsored by Southern Mississippi College Arts and Letters, Learning Commons and Gulf Coast Libraries. Featuring Nina Chase, 11th Hour Jazz Ensemble and Romero Burney. Details: 214-3264 or 234-5582.

JAN. 16

Red Cross blood drive: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., VFW Post 2434, 289 Veterans Ave., Biloxi. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code VFW2434.

Basic knitting: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Designed for ages 12 and older. Cost: $40 member, $50 nonmembers, cost includes lunch in the cafe. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Instructor: Maryanne Anthony. Details: 818-2878.

"Anybody Out There?": 8 p.m. Jan. 16-17, 2 p.m. Jan. 18, 8 p.m. Jan. 23-24 and 2 p.m. Jan. 25, Bay St. Louis Little Theatre, 398 Blaize Ave. Cost: $15 adults, $10 seniors 65 and older, veterans, military and students, $8 children younger than 12. Details: 467-9024 or bsllt.org.

"The African Diva Project: Paintings by Margaret Rose Vendryes" opening reception: 5-7:30 p.m. Jan. 16, exhibition/discussion with Margaret Vendryes 2 p.m. Jan. 17, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Vendryes will present a talk focusing on origins of project and role of race and gender identification in contemporary African American communities. Details: georgeohr.org and 374-5547.

Martin Luther King Jr. Gospel Extravaganza: 7 p.m., Grace Temple Baptist Church, 13344 Old Highway 49, Gulfport. Featuring MLK Jr. Coastwide choir, local choirs and praise teams. Details: 234-5582, 234-5582 or 432-0206.

JAN. 17

Community Health and Fitness Expo: 9 a.m.-noon, Mercy Crossing gymnasium, 390 Crusaders Drive, Biloxi. Active games, exercise demonstrations, prizes, health vendors, screenings and more. Details: 234-5582.

Enrollment sessions for the Affordable Care Act: 9:30 a.m.-noon Jan. 17, 5:30-8 p.m. Jan. 27 and 9:30 a.m.-noon Feb. 14, Pass Christian Public Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Presenter: Claudette Jones, certified health care navigator with Coastal Family Health. Bring accurate household income information and birthdates of all dependents. Details: 452-4596.

Mudslingers: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Jan. 17 and 31, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25. Designed for ages 14 and older. Details: 374-5547.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Bond Baptist Church, 35 Sellers St., Wiggins. In memory of Hannah Bullen. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code BOND.

Red Cross blood drive: Noon-5 p.m., Edgewater Mall, Biloxi. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. birthday celebration. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code MLK.

Meet the Spirits of Beauvoir: 6-6:30 p.m. registration, 7 p.m.-midnight, Beauvoir Jefferson Davis Home and Presidential Library. Cost: $40 purchase at sparasparanormal.com. Refreshments. Presented by Southern Paranormal and Anomally Research. Details: 388-4400, ext. 217.

Fourth Krewe of CASA Mardi Gras Gala: 7 p.m.-midnight, Bay St. Louis Community Hall, Blaize Street. Cost: $40 in advance, $50 at the door. Dinner, silent auction, live entertainment, crowning of CASA King and Queen. Proceeds benefit CASA for abused and neglected children of Hancock County. Details: 344-0419.

Second Liners Mardi Gras Ball: 7 p.m. doors open, 8 p.m. ceremony, Gruich Community Center, 591 Howard Ave., Biloxi. Cost: 25. Formal attire, live entertainment and bring own food and bottle. Hosted by the Second Liners Mardi Gras Club. Details: 424-8085 or 365-9070.

JAN. 19

Coast Wide Fire Safety and Canvassing Event: 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Pelican Landing, 6217 Mississippi 613, Moss Point. Details: 234-5582.

Pinch Pots: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $5 per pot. All ages welcome. Make and decorate a clay pinch pot. Details: 374-5547.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day event: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Free crafts and activities with museum admission. Details: 897-6039.

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6 p.m., St. Rose de Lima Catholic Church, Holy Spirit Center, 301 S. Necaise Ave., Bay St. Louis. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code SRDL.

Discussion on the Mississippi Civil Rights Movement in Contemporary Times: 2 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Presenter: Flonzie Brown-Wright. Presented in conjunction with the Mississippi Humanities Council Speaker's Bureau. Details: 374-5547.

JAN. 20

Red Cross blood drive: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., D'Iberville Elementary School library, 4540 Brodie Road. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code DES.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Hancock North Central Elementary School, 6122 Cuevas Town Road, Kiln. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code HNCE.

Transformation-Theater: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through Feb. 19, Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Designed for girls ages 9-13. Free. Instructor: Kayla Hobgood, Ocean Springs senior. Course teaches basics of theater and promotes self-confidence. At the end of five weeks, girls perform a short play entitled "The Bookcase Fable." Details: 818-2878.

Negrotto's 11th annual African American Art and Heritage Celebration/Movement: 6-8 p.m., 2645 Executive Place, Biloxi. All artists encouraged to participate, with works of black artists and artists who have African American-themed works. Highlights the work of musicians, artists, dancers, writers, poets and others. Details: 388-8822.

Project Management Institute Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter meeting: 6-8 p.m., Bull's Restaurant, 300 Jeff Davis Ave., Long Beach. Guest speaker: Capt. Paul Odenthal, commanding officer, Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport. Details: 547-8555 or pmimgc@gmail.com.

Celebrity cooking class and wine pairing: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Presented by Kelly English. Make a Southern meal. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

JAN. 21

Purl Stitch Knitting: 6-8 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Cost: $30 member, $40 nonmembers. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Instructor: Maryanne Anthony. Details: 818-2878.

JAN. 22

Red Cross blood drive: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Triton Systems, 21405 B Ave., Long Beach Industrial Park. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code TRITON/.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Diamondhead Community Center. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code DIAMONDHEAD.

Red Cross blood drive: 2-7 p.m., St. Joseph Catholic Church Parish Hall, DePew Road, Gulfport. Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code OGCOMM.

How to Develop a Business Plan class: 5:30-7:30 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

JAN. 23

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6 p.m., H and R Block, 167 Hardy Court Shopping Center, Pass Road and Courthouse Road, Gulfport. Bone Marrow donation will be on site to accept donors. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code TAXES.

Clay Play After School: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Develop skills of working with slabs of clay and create sculptural castles. Cost: $13. Designed for ages 7 and older. Details: 374-5547.

Pete the Cat family cooking class: 6-7:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Make pizza, fruit kabobs and peppermint hot chocolate. Cost: $25 for one parent and one child. $5 for each additional person. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

Pottery date night: 6-8 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25 per person. Designed for ages 14 and older. Details: 374-5547.

"August-Osage County": 8 p.m. Jan. 23-25 and Jan. 30-31 and 3 p.m. Feb. 1, Gulfport Little Theatre, 2600 13th Ave., Gulfport. Cost: $15 general, $12 seniors and military, $10 student with ID/ child. Details: 864-7983.

JAN. 24

Man to Man Symposium-Pathways to Manhood: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., International Relief Development, 1223 30th Ave., Gulfport. Adult men engage in discussions and trainings with youth and young males. Speaker: Damien Durr, Children's Defense Fund, Zero Tolerance Policies and Cradle to the Prison Pipeline. Details: 234-5582.

Pete the Cat Pancakes and Pajamas cooking class: 9:30-11 a.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Wear your pajamas and make pancakes and bacon with Pete the Cat. Enjoy singing, dancing and a story. Cost: $25 for one parent and one child. $5 for each additional person. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

Homeless Veterans supply drive: 10-11:30 a.m., 15224 LeMoyne Blvd., Biloxi. Sponsored by Maria Rivera. Collecting socks, coats, personal toiletries, blankets, clothing and more. Details: 424-9067.

"Snow Queen" auditions: 1-3 p.m. Jan. 24, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 26, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Auditions open to students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Come prepared to sing if you are interested in a solo. Details: 897-6039.

Kundalini Yoga Workshop: 2-5 p.m., River Rock Yoga, 2429 W. Commerce St., Ocean Springs. Instructor: Bill Savage. Cost: $35 or $30 if reserved a week before event. Features chanting, music, breathing, body postures and more. Details: 818-4522.

JAN. 26

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6:30 p.m., Edgewater Mall, 2600 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code EWMALL.

JAN. 27

County Forestry and Wildlife Association annual meeting: 6 p.m. registration, 6:15 p.m. program begins, Lyman Community Center, 13742 U.S. 49, Gulfport. Theme: Government assistance programs for landowners, the Forest Resource Development program and using game cameras in wildlife management. Cost: $20 includes meal and membership. Hosted by The Hancock/Harrison Counties Forestry and Wildlife Association. Preregistration encouraged. Details: 865-4227.

Southern Italian Dinner Party cooking class: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Presented by Chef Skyler Mcveay. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

JAN. 29

Cash Flow Projections for Your Business Plan class: 5:30-7 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

JAN. 30

Purl Stitch Knitting: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Designed for ages 12 and older. Cost: $40 member, $50 nonmembers, cost includes lunch in the cafe. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Instructor: Maryanne Anthony. Details: 818-2878.

Free Friday night: 5-8 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Details: 897-6039.

Pete the Cat event: 6 p.m. Jan. 30, 11 a.m. Jan. 31, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Singing, dancing and photos with Pete in the museum. Cost: $3 members, $12 nonmembers. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

What's Happening for JANUARY - SunHerald

Send calendar items to mynews@sunherald.com or fax to 896-2104.

FRIDAY

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Lowe's, 2151 John Hill Blvd., Gulfport. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code LOWESGULFPORT.

Ice skating: 6 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 2; 3:30, 6 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 3; 2, 4:30 and 7 p.m. Jan. 4, Mississippi Coast Coliseum, Biloxi, for 90-minute sessions. Tickets, which include skate rental while supplies last, can be purchased at the box office 30 minutes prior to each session. Details: 594-3707.

Steak dinner: 6:30-8 p.m., Ocean Springs Elks Lodge 2501, 2501 Beachview Drive. Cost: $18 grilled steaks, $12 fish. Details: 872-2501.

Ribeye steak dinner: 6-8 p.m., VFW Post 6731, 4321 W. Gay Road, D'Iberville. Cost: $15. Details: 392-1152.

Sweater Swap dance: 8-10 p.m., Amour Danzar, 9355 County Farm Road, Gulfport. Cost: $10. Bring an unwanted sweater to swap. Details: 324-3730.

SATURDAY

Holiday wreath and floral pickup: 8 a.m., Biloxi National Cemetery, 400 Veterans Ave., Biloxi. The public is invited to assist the cemetery by picking up artificial holiday wreaths and floral arrangements on headstones for storage until next year. Details: 388-6668.

Red Cross blood drive: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Knights of Columbuss Hall, 22424 Mississippi 603, Kiln. In honor of Misty Daniels. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code MISTY.

Make a Ceramic Mardi Gras Mask workshop: 10:30-11 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.-noon, Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Work on clay Mardi Gras masks. Designed for ages 2-7. Cost: $10 per mask. Details: 374-5547.

Electric Masquerade Music Experience: 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Mississippi Coast Coliseum, 2350 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Features live music, art and Carnival with cultural and tradition. Showcases 50 artists and entertainers performing pop, rock, hip hop, rap, EDM and Indie music. Proceeds benefit Make-A-Wish Mississippi. Cost: $35 or $85 VIP. Details: 800-726-2781 or 594-3700.

Make a Ceramic Mardi Gras Mask workshop, adult session: 1-4 p.m., Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Work on clay mardi gras masks and add feathers, beads and jewels. Designed for ages 14 and older. Cost: $20 per mask. Details: 374-5547.

Gulf Coast Stamp Club meeting: 2:30 p.m., St. Martin Public Library, LeMoyne Boulevard. Details: gulfcoaststampclub@gmail.com.

Downton Abbey on the Coast: 2 and 7 p.m. free screening, 5:30 p.m. cocktail reception, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Hosted by the Mississippi Public Broadcasting Foundation and Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. Wine pairings and appetizers. Features preview of "Downton Abbey, Season 5." Tickets: $50 per person. 1920s attire encouraged for costume contest. Photo cost: $5 per print. Details/tickets: http://ift.tt/1tlmYho.

Winter Wonderland dinner and dance: 6 p.m. swing lessons, 7 p.m. country lessons, 8 p.m. dinner, Amour Danzar, 9355 County Farm Road, Gulfport. Dress in your country best. Cost: $10 swing lessons, $10 country lessons. Dinner reservations are available for $10, $20 or $30. Details: 324-3730.

Belles & Buoys Square Dance event and meeting: 7 p.m. meeting, 8-10 p.m. dance, Lyman Senior Citizen Center, 14592 County Farm Road, Gulfport. Details: 831-3127.

SUNDAY

VFW Post 6731 breakfast: 8-11 a.m., 4321 W. Gay Road, D'Iberville. Cost: $6. Details: 392-1152.

Ocean Springs Elks Lodge 2501 breakfast: 9-11 a.m., 2501 Beachview Drive. Cost: $6. Details: 872-2501.

MONDAY

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6:30 p.m., Edgewater Mall, in space next to Belks' south mall entrance, 2600 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code EWMALL.

Twelfth Night: 5 p.m., Biloxi Visitors Center, 1050 Beach Blvd. Parade begins at Biloxi Visitor Center and parading to the Mardi Gras Museum. Event serves as a reminder of religious significance of Carnival. Following the parade is the reigning Royal Court of Gulf Coast Carnival Association will be presented to extinguish Christmas lights at the Biloxi Lighthouse. Details: 374-3105.

American Legion Post 1992 Ladies Auxiliary meeting: 6:30 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

VFW Post 6731 meeting: 7 p.m., 4321 W. Gay Road, D'Iberville. Details: 392-1152.

TUESDAY

At Ease Gang meeting: 7 a.m., Treasure Bay Casino, Infinity Buffet, 1980 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Guest speaker: Susan Guillory, Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System. Details: 214-6018.

Beaded Jewelry workshop: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Cost: $35 member per session, $45 nonmembers per session, cost includes lunch in the cafe. Instructor: Shirley Cahela. Details: 818-2878.

Homeschool Clay Play: 10:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays, through Jan. 27, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $12 per student per class. Theme: Slab work and castle building. Future weekly themes include mixed-media Mardi Gras masks, pottery wheel fun and ceramic sculpture. All ages welcome. Instruction glazes and firing are included. Details: 374-5547.

Red Cross blood drive: 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Chick-fil-A, 3842 Promenade Parkway, D'Iberville. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code CHICKFILADIB.

NAACP Gulfport Branch Installation/Oath of Office ceremony and reception: 6-6:45 p.m., Isiah Fredericks Community Center, 3312 Martin Luther King Blvd., Gulfport. Details: 896-6316.

Drawing class: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays for four weeks, Gail Keenan Art Center at Coast Episcopal School, 5065 Espy Ave., Long Beach. Cost: $75 includes tools and supplies. Details: 234-1610.

WEDNESDAY

Computer graphics class: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Pass Christian Public Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Instructor: John Giesemann from Mississippi State University Extension Center for Technology Outreach. One-hour lunch break. Newsletters creation, graphics, Microsoft Word and more. Class size limited. Free. Preregistration encouraged. Details: 452-4596 or passchristianlibrary@gmail.com.

Painting class: Drawing class: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays for four weeks, Gail Keenan Art Center at Coast Episcopal School, 5065 Espy Ave., Long Beach. Cost:$80 includes tools and supplies. Details: 234-1610.

Basic Knitting: 6-8 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Cost: $30 member, $40 nonmembers. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Details: 818-2878.

Sons of the American Legion Post 1992 meeting: 6:30 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

JAN. 8

Blood drive: 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Biloxi Regional Hospital, 150 Reynoir Drive. Donors receive a T-shirt. Details: 888-902-5663 or msblood.com.

Beginning wheel throwing: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Thursdays for four weeks, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $125 for four weeks includes instruction, 20 pounds of recycled clay and use of basic studio glazes. Ages 14 and older. Throwing skills with bowls and cylinders. Introductory level class. Details: 374-5547.

Pass Christian Garden Club: Noon, Pass Christian Public Library, conference room, 111 Hiern Ave. Speaker: Robert Brzuszek, profesor of landscape architecture at Mississippi State University. Topic: Crosby Arboretum. Copies of his book "The Crosby Arboretum-A Sustainable Regional Landscape" will be available for purchase. Refreshments will be served. Details: 452-4596.

Think Like an Entrepreneur class: 5:30-7:30 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

American Legion Post 1992 executive committee meeting: 6-7 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

Inaugural Film Festival: 6-9 p.m., University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Park Campus, Long Beach. Screening of documentary, "Aboveboard-Port of the Future" followed by a panel discussion. Features Francisco Gonzalez and Elaine Stevens, producers of film; Rose Johnson, award winning environmental activist; Howard Page, Port Campaign organizer; and James Smith, professor emeritus of History. Details: 234-5582.

JAN. 9

Mudslingers: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Jan. 9, 17 and 31, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25. Designed for ages 14 and older. Pottery on the wheel with two pots, wear old clothes. Details: 374-5547.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Chick-fil-A, 11001 U.S. 49, Gulfport. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code CHICKFILAGPORT.

Ocean Springs Elks Lodge 2501 baked or fried fish dinner: 5-7:30 p.m., 2501 Beachview Drive. Cost: $10. Details: 872-2501.

"Jesus Christ-Superstar" auditions: 6:30 p.m. Jan. 9, 2:30 p.m. Jan. 10, Nancy School of Dance, 11010 Lamey Bridge Road, D'Iberville. Production schedule for April 10-12. Audition includes one-minute song and short dance. Details: 314-4612.

JAN. 10

Second Saturday Bike Ride: 8 a.m., Beach Park, Pascagoula. Details: 938-2356.

Martin Luther King Jr. Town Hall meeting: 8 a.m. doors open, 8:30 a.m. breakfast followed by panel discussion. D'Iberville Senior Citizen Center, 10450 Lamey Bridge Road. Speakers: Nancy Loome, Mississippi Adequate Education Program; Shane Switzer, Biloxi Public Schools; Deeneaus Polk, Policy Analyst for the Mississippi Economic Policy Center' and Jarvis Polk, Mississippi Health Advocacy Program. Topics of discussion: access to healthcare, medicaid expansion and Mississippi Adequate Education Program. RSVP encouraged. Details: 872-7618.

Third annual Frosty Kroc Run: 8:30 a.m. one-mile run, 9 a.m. 10K and 10K stroller run and 9:15 a.m. 5K and 5K stroller, The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 575 Division St., Biloxi. Cost: $20 adults, $15 children includes Tshirt. Hosted by the Salvation Army Kroc Center. Details: 207-1218.

Your Movement-Your Time Youth Summit: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Jackson County Campus. Interactive seminars and trainings geared toward youth activism. Details: 234-5582.

Pine Needle Basketry workshop: 9:30 a.m.-noon, Crosby Arboretum, 370 Ridge Road, Picayune. Instructor: Judy Breland. Learn methods for basket work. Wear old clothes. Material provided. Cost: $5 members, $7 nonmembers. Details: 601-799-2311.

Teen Art -- Play on the Pottery Wheel: 10:30-12:30 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25 per student. Designed for ages 8-16. Details: 374-5547.

American Legion Oratorical High School Scholarship contest: 11 a.m., St. John's Episcopal Church, at the corner of Porter and Rayburn Avenue. Contest is conducted at local, district and state level. Purpose of contest is to develop basic knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United State in high school students. Hosted by the Emile Ladnier American Legion Post 42 of Ocean Springs. Each contestant will speak 8-10 minutes on their prepared oration. Winners proceed to Indianapolis, Ind. to compete nationally. Details: 547-3792 or 547-3797.

Beekeeping school: 2-5 p.m. Jan. 10 and 17, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Jackson County Campus, Gautier. Lectures and handouts for those interested in keeping bees. Lectures cover what is needed and steps to keep bees. Mentors available for questions at all meeting. Details: 249-4115.

Tango Night at the Beau Rivage: 7 p.m.-midnight, Beau Rivage Casino, 875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Fundraiser benefits the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra. Features honoree Nyron Marshall and other professional tango dancers from all over the U.S. Cost: $75 includes two drink tickets and heavy hors d'oeuvres. Details/tickets: gulfcoastsymphony.net or 896-4276.

Town Mountain-Arts Under the Dome: 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 2301 15th St., Gulfport. Cost: $15 general admission, $10 students. Details: 229-6851 or 863-0047.

JAN. 11

Fundraiser meal for Tony Shields, a St. Alphonsus School employee: 10-2:30 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 421 Washington Ave., Ocean Springs. Proceeds will benefit Tony Shields' family and the medical expenses for their 11-year-old son. Cost: $6 per person or $20 for a family of four to six people.

English/Italian mass and homemade Italian lunch: 11:30 a.m. mass, 12:30-2 p.m. lunch. St. Thomas the Apostle, 720 E. Beach Blvd., Long Beach. Offering collection benefits St. Vincent de Paul Society. Tickets: $12 adults, $6 children ages 4-12. Presented by the Gulf Coast Italian American Cultural Society. Details: 539-4571.

JAN. 12

American Legion Post 1992 meeting: 7-8 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

JAN. 13

Red Cross blood drive: 8 a.m.-1 p.m., IP Casino, Resort and Spa. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code IPCASINO.

Coastal Mexican Fusion cooking class: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Presented by Chef Sarah Cormier of the Beau Rivage. Make homemade salsa, nachos and more. Cost: $30 members, $35 nonmembers. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

When Women Talk Forum-Women on the Move: 6:30 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Speakers: Karen Sock, Sock Enterprises, Angel Greer, Coastal Family Health Center, Shundral Cole, federal prosecutor and Dixie Newman, Biloxi city Council Ward 3. Details: 234-5582.

JAN. 14

Mississippi Economic Council's Regional Round-Up Jackson County meeting: 7:30-9 a.m., Hilton Garden Inn, Pascagoula. Co-hosted by Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, Jackson County Economic Development Foundation Inc. and the Mississippi Gulf Coast Business Council. Highlighting the strengths of the regions. Details: mec.ms.

Craft Beer Tasting: 6-9 p.m., Walter Anderson Museum of Art, 510 Washington Ave., Ocean Springs. Featuring Chandeleur Brewing Co., Crooked Letter Brewing Co. and Lazy Magnolia. Live entertainment, must be 21 or older to attend. Cost: $15 nonmembers, $10 members. New members are free. Limited tickets. Details: development@walterandersonmuseum.org.

JAN. 15

Red Cross blood drive: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Coast Radio Group, 10250 Lorriane Road, Gulfport. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code CRGIVE.

Veterans caregiver conference: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Biloxi VA Medical Center, 400 Veterans Ave., Recreational Hall, building 17. Provide caregivers with guidance on how to care for themselves and deal with daily activities. Theme: Managing Difficult Decisions and Long Term Planning. Light lunch provided courtesy of Gentiva Hospice. Additional topics include caregiver stress management, transitions of care, end of life care and meaningful activities at home. Parking and shuttles available for attendees. Details/RSVP: 601-987-0020 or 523-5110.

Retired Senior Group luncheon: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Jefferson Davis cafeteria executive dining room. Speaker: David Manasco, Southern Mississippi Area Agency on Aging. Theme: Medicare Program Changes in 2015 and how his agency can help. Details: 896-2549.

Starting a Business--First Steps class: 5:30-7:30 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

An Evening of Poetry and Jazz-Movement with Words: 6-9 p.m., University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Park Campus, Hardy Ballroom, 730 E. Beach Blvd., Long Beach. Sponsored by Southern Mississippi College Arts and Letters, Learning Commons and Gulf Coast Libraries. Featuring Nina Chase, 11th Hour Jazz Ensemble and Romero Burney. Details: 214-3264 or 234-5582.

JAN. 16

Red Cross blood drive: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., VFW Post 2434, 289 Veterans Ave., Biloxi. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code VFW2434.

Basic knitting: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Designed for ages 12 and older. Cost: $40 member, $50 nonmembers, cost includes lunch in the cafe. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Instructor: Maryanne Anthony. Details: 818-2878.

"Anybody Out There?": 8 p.m. Jan. 16-17, 2 p.m. Jan. 18, 8 p.m. Jan. 23-24 and 2 p.m. Jan. 25, Bay St. Louis Little Theatre, 398 Blaize Ave. Cost: $15 adults, $10 seniors 65 and older, veterans, military and students, $8 children younger than 12. Details: 467-9024 or bsllt.org.

"The African Diva Project: Paintings by Margaret Rose Vendryes" opening reception: 5-7:30 p.m. Jan. 16, exhibition/discussion with Margaret Vendryes 2 p.m. Jan. 17, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Vendryes will present a talk focusing on origins of project and role of race and gender identification in contemporary African American communities. Details: georgeohr.org and 374-5547.

Martin Luther King Jr. Gospel Extravaganza: 7 p.m., Grace Temple Baptist Church, 13344 Old Highway 49, Gulfport. Featuring MLK Jr. Coastwide choir, local choirs and praise teams. Details: 234-5582, 234-5582 or 432-0206.

JAN. 17

Community Health and Fitness Expo: 9 a.m.-noon, Mercy Crossing gymnasium, 390 Crusaders Drive, Biloxi. Active games, exercise demonstrations, prizes, health vendors, screenings and more. Details: 234-5582.

Enrollment sessions for the Affordable Care Act: 9:30 a.m.-noon Jan. 17, 5:30-8 p.m. Jan. 27 and 9:30 a.m.-noon Feb. 14, Pass Christian Public Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Presenter: Claudette Jones, certified health care navigator with Coastal Family Health. Bring accurate household income information and birthdates of all dependents. Details: 452-4596.

Mudslingers: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Jan. 17 and 31, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25. Designed for ages 14 and older. Details: 374-5547.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Bond Baptist Church, 35 Sellers St., Wiggins. In memory of Hannah Bullen. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code BOND.

Red Cross blood drive: Noon-5 p.m., Edgewater Mall, Biloxi. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. birthday celebration. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code MLK.

Meet the Spirits of Beauvoir: 6-6:30 p.m. registration, 7 p.m.-midnight, Beauvoir Jefferson Davis Home and Presidential Library. Cost: $40 purchase at sparasparanormal.com. Refreshments. Presented by Southern Paranormal and Anomally Research. Details: 388-4400, ext. 217.

Fourth Krewe of CASA Mardi Gras Gala: 7 p.m.-midnight, Bay St. Louis Community Hall, Blaize Street. Cost: $40 in advance, $50 at the door. Dinner, silent auction, live entertainment, crowning of CASA King and Queen. Proceeds benefit CASA for abused and neglected children of Hancock County. Details: 344-0419.

Second Liners Mardi Gras Ball: 7 p.m. doors open, 8 p.m. ceremony, Gruich Community Center, 591 Howard Ave., Biloxi. Cost: 25. Formal attire, live entertainment and bring own food and bottle. Hosted by the Second Liners Mardi Gras Club. Details: 424-8085 or 365-9070.

JAN. 19

Coast Wide Fire Safety and Canvassing Event: 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Pelican Landing, 6217 Mississippi 613, Moss Point. Details: 234-5582.

Pinch Pots: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $5 per pot. All ages welcome. Make and decorate a clay pinch pot. Details: 374-5547.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day event: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Free crafts and activities with museum admission. Details: 897-6039.

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6 p.m., St. Rose de Lima Catholic Church, Holy Spirit Center, 301 S. Necaise Ave., Bay St. Louis. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code SRDL.

Discussion on the Mississippi Civil Rights Movement in Contemporary Times: 2 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Presenter: Flonzie Brown-Wright. Presented in conjunction with the Mississippi Humanities Council Speaker's Bureau. Details: 374-5547.

JAN. 20

Red Cross blood drive: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., D'Iberville Elementary School library, 4540 Brodie Road. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code DES.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Hancock North Central Elementary School, 6122 Cuevas Town Road, Kiln. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code HNCE.

Transformation-Theater: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through Feb. 19, Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Designed for girls ages 9-13. Free. Instructor: Kayla Hobgood, Ocean Springs senior. Course teaches basics of theater and promotes self-confidence. At the end of five weeks, girls perform a short play entitled "The Bookcase Fable." Details: 818-2878.

Negrotto's 11th annual African American Art and Heritage Celebration/Movement: 6-8 p.m., 2645 Executive Place, Biloxi. All artists encouraged to participate, with works of black artists and artists who have African American-themed works. Highlights the work of musicians, artists, dancers, writers, poets and others. Details: 388-8822.

Project Management Institute Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter meeting: 6-8 p.m., Bull's Restaurant, 300 Jeff Davis Ave., Long Beach. Guest speaker: Capt. Paul Odenthal, commanding officer, Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport. Details: 547-8555 or pmimgc@gmail.com.

Celebrity cooking class and wine pairing: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Presented by Kelly English. Make a Southern meal. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

JAN. 21

Purl Stitch Knitting: 6-8 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Cost: $30 member, $40 nonmembers. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Instructor: Maryanne Anthony. Details: 818-2878.

JAN. 22

Red Cross blood drive: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Triton Systems, 21405 B Ave., Long Beach Industrial Park. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code TRITON/.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Diamondhead Community Center. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code DIAMONDHEAD.

Red Cross blood drive: 2-7 p.m., St. Joseph Catholic Church Parish Hall, DePew Road, Gulfport. Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code OGCOMM.

How to Develop a Business Plan class: 5:30-7:30 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

JAN. 23

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6 p.m., H and R Block, 167 Hardy Court Shopping Center, Pass Road and Courthouse Road, Gulfport. Bone Marrow donation will be on site to accept donors. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code TAXES.

Clay Play After School: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Develop skills of working with slabs of clay and create sculptural castles. Cost: $13. Designed for ages 7 and older. Details: 374-5547.

Pete the Cat family cooking class: 6-7:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Make pizza, fruit kabobs and peppermint hot chocolate. Cost: $25 for one parent and one child. $5 for each additional person. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

Pottery date night: 6-8 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25 per person. Designed for ages 14 and older. Details: 374-5547.

"August-Osage County": 8 p.m. Jan. 23-25 and Jan. 30-31 and 3 p.m. Feb. 1, Gulfport Little Theatre, 2600 13th Ave., Gulfport. Cost: $15 general, $12 seniors and military, $10 student with ID/ child. Details: 864-7983.

JAN. 24

Man to Man Symposium-Pathways to Manhood: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., International Relief Development, 1223 30th Ave., Gulfport. Adult men engage in discussions and trainings with youth and young males. Speaker: Damien Durr, Children's Defense Fund, Zero Tolerance Policies and Cradle to the Prison Pipeline. Details: 234-5582.

Pete the Cat Pancakes and Pajamas cooking class: 9:30-11 a.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Wear your pajamas and make pancakes and bacon with Pete the Cat. Enjoy singing, dancing and a story. Cost: $25 for one parent and one child. $5 for each additional person. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

Homeless Veterans supply drive: 10-11:30 a.m., 15224 LeMoyne Blvd., Biloxi. Sponsored by Maria Rivera. Collecting socks, coats, personal toiletries, blankets, clothing and more. Details: 424-9067.

"Snow Queen" auditions: 1-3 p.m. Jan. 24, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 26, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Auditions open to students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Come prepared to sing if you are interested in a solo. Details: 897-6039.

Kundalini Yoga Workshop: 2-5 p.m., River Rock Yoga, 2429 W. Commerce St., Ocean Springs. Instructor: Bill Savage. Cost: $35 or $30 if reserved a week before event. Features chanting, music, breathing, body postures and more. Details: 818-4522.

JAN. 26

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6:30 p.m., Edgewater Mall, 2600 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code EWMALL.

JAN. 27

County Forestry and Wildlife Association annual meeting: 6 p.m. registration, 6:15 p.m. program begins, Lyman Community Center, 13742 U.S. 49, Gulfport. Theme: Government assistance programs for landowners, the Forest Resource Development program and using game cameras in wildlife management. Cost: $20 includes meal and membership. Hosted by The Hancock/Harrison Counties Forestry and Wildlife Association. Preregistration encouraged. Details: 865-4227.

Southern Italian Dinner Party cooking class: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Presented by Chef Skyler Mcveay. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

JAN. 29

Cash Flow Projections for Your Business Plan class: 5:30-7 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

JAN. 30

Purl Stitch Knitting: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Designed for ages 12 and older. Cost: $40 member, $50 nonmembers, cost includes lunch in the cafe. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Instructor: Maryanne Anthony. Details: 818-2878.

Free Friday night: 5-8 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Details: 897-6039.

Pete the Cat event: 6 p.m. Jan. 30, 11 a.m. Jan. 31, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Singing, dancing and photos with Pete in the museum. Cost: $3 members, $12 nonmembers. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

What's Happening for JANUARY - SunHerald

Send calendar items to mynews@sunherald.com or fax to 896-2104.

FRIDAY

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Lowe's, 2151 John Hill Blvd., Gulfport. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code LOWESGULFPORT.

Ice skating: 6 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 2; 3:30, 6 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 3; 2, 4:30 and 7 p.m. Jan. 4, Mississippi Coast Coliseum, Biloxi, for 90-minute sessions. Tickets, which include skate rental while supplies last, can be purchased at the box office 30 minutes prior to each session. Details: 594-3707.

Steak dinner: 6:30-8 p.m., Ocean Springs Elks Lodge 2501, 2501 Beachview Drive. Cost: $18 grilled steaks, $12 fish. Details: 872-2501.

Ribeye steak dinner: 6-8 p.m., VFW Post 6731, 4321 W. Gay Road, D'Iberville. Cost: $15. Details: 392-1152.

Sweater Swap dance: 8-10 p.m., Amour Danzar, 9355 County Farm Road, Gulfport. Cost: $10. Bring an unwanted sweater to swap. Details: 324-3730.

SATURDAY

Holiday wreath and floral pickup: 8 a.m., Biloxi National Cemetery, 400 Veterans Ave., Biloxi. The public is invited to assist the cemetery by picking up artificial holiday wreaths and floral arrangements on headstones for storage until next year. Details: 388-6668.

Red Cross blood drive: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Knights of Columbuss Hall, 22424 Mississippi 603, Kiln. In honor of Misty Daniels. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code MISTY.

Make a Ceramic Mardi Gras Mask workshop: 10:30-11 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.-noon, Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Work on clay Mardi Gras masks. Designed for ages 2-7. Cost: $10 per mask. Details: 374-5547.

Electric Masquerade Music Experience: 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Mississippi Coast Coliseum, 2350 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Features live music, art and Carnival with cultural and tradition. Showcases 50 artists and entertainers performing pop, rock, hip hop, rap, EDM and Indie music. Proceeds benefit Make-A-Wish Mississippi. Cost: $35 or $85 VIP. Details: 800-726-2781 or 594-3700.

Make a Ceramic Mardi Gras Mask workshop, adult session: 1-4 p.m., Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Work on clay mardi gras masks and add feathers, beads and jewels. Designed for ages 14 and older. Cost: $20 per mask. Details: 374-5547.

Gulf Coast Stamp Club meeting: 2:30 p.m., St. Martin Public Library, LeMoyne Boulevard. Details: gulfcoaststampclub@gmail.com.

Downton Abbey on the Coast: 2 and 7 p.m. free screening, 5:30 p.m. cocktail reception, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Hosted by the Mississippi Public Broadcasting Foundation and Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. Wine pairings and appetizers. Features preview of "Downton Abbey, Season 5." Tickets: $50 per person. 1920s attire encouraged for costume contest. Photo cost: $5 per print. Details/tickets: http://ift.tt/1tlmYho.

Winter Wonderland dinner and dance: 6 p.m. swing lessons, 7 p.m. country lessons, 8 p.m. dinner, Amour Danzar, 9355 County Farm Road, Gulfport. Dress in your country best. Cost: $10 swing lessons, $10 country lessons. Dinner reservations are available for $10, $20 or $30. Details: 324-3730.

Belles & Buoys Square Dance event and meeting: 7 p.m. meeting, 8-10 p.m. dance, Lyman Senior Citizen Center, 14592 County Farm Road, Gulfport. Details: 831-3127.

SUNDAY

VFW Post 6731 breakfast: 8-11 a.m., 4321 W. Gay Road, D'Iberville. Cost: $6. Details: 392-1152.

Ocean Springs Elks Lodge 2501 breakfast: 9-11 a.m., 2501 Beachview Drive. Cost: $6. Details: 872-2501.

MONDAY

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6:30 p.m., Edgewater Mall, in space next to Belks' south mall entrance, 2600 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code EWMALL.

Twelfth Night: 5 p.m., Biloxi Visitors Center, 1050 Beach Blvd. Parade begins at Biloxi Visitor Center and parading to the Mardi Gras Museum. Event serves as a reminder of religious significance of Carnival. Following the parade is the reigning Royal Court of Gulf Coast Carnival Association will be presented to extinguish Christmas lights at the Biloxi Lighthouse. Details: 374-3105.

American Legion Post 1992 Ladies Auxiliary meeting: 6:30 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

VFW Post 6731 meeting: 7 p.m., 4321 W. Gay Road, D'Iberville. Details: 392-1152.

TUESDAY

At Ease Gang meeting: 7 a.m., Treasure Bay Casino, Infinity Buffet, 1980 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Guest speaker: Susan Guillory, Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System. Details: 214-6018.

Beaded Jewelry workshop: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Cost: $35 member per session, $45 nonmembers per session, cost includes lunch in the cafe. Instructor: Shirley Cahela. Details: 818-2878.

Homeschool Clay Play: 10:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays, through Jan. 27, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $12 per student per class. Theme: Slab work and castle building. Future weekly themes include mixed-media Mardi Gras masks, pottery wheel fun and ceramic sculpture. All ages welcome. Instruction glazes and firing are included. Details: 374-5547.

Red Cross blood drive: 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Chick-fil-A, 3842 Promenade Parkway, D'Iberville. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code CHICKFILADIB.

NAACP Gulfport Branch Installation/Oath of Office ceremony and reception: 6-6:45 p.m., Isiah Fredericks Community Center, 3312 Martin Luther King Blvd., Gulfport. Details: 896-6316.

Drawing class: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays for four weeks, Gail Keenan Art Center at Coast Episcopal School, 5065 Espy Ave., Long Beach. Cost: $75 includes tools and supplies. Details: 234-1610.

WEDNESDAY

Computer graphics class: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Pass Christian Public Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Instructor: John Giesemann from Mississippi State University Extension Center for Technology Outreach. One-hour lunch break. Newsletters creation, graphics, Microsoft Word and more. Class size limited. Free. Preregistration encouraged. Details: 452-4596 or passchristianlibrary@gmail.com.

Painting class: Drawing class: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays for four weeks, Gail Keenan Art Center at Coast Episcopal School, 5065 Espy Ave., Long Beach. Cost:$80 includes tools and supplies. Details: 234-1610.

Basic Knitting: 6-8 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Cost: $30 member, $40 nonmembers. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Details: 818-2878.

Sons of the American Legion Post 1992 meeting: 6:30 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

JAN. 8

Blood drive: 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Biloxi Regional Hospital, 150 Reynoir Drive. Donors receive a T-shirt. Details: 888-902-5663 or msblood.com.

Beginning wheel throwing: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Thursdays for four weeks, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $125 for four weeks includes instruction, 20 pounds of recycled clay and use of basic studio glazes. Ages 14 and older. Throwing skills with bowls and cylinders. Introductory level class. Details: 374-5547.

Pass Christian Garden Club: Noon, Pass Christian Public Library, conference room, 111 Hiern Ave. Speaker: Robert Brzuszek, profesor of landscape architecture at Mississippi State University. Topic: Crosby Arboretum. Copies of his book "The Crosby Arboretum-A Sustainable Regional Landscape" will be available for purchase. Refreshments will be served. Details: 452-4596.

Think Like an Entrepreneur class: 5:30-7:30 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

American Legion Post 1992 executive committee meeting: 6-7 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

Inaugural Film Festival: 6-9 p.m., University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Park Campus, Long Beach. Screening of documentary, "Aboveboard-Port of the Future" followed by a panel discussion. Features Francisco Gonzalez and Elaine Stevens, producers of film; Rose Johnson, award winning environmental activist; Howard Page, Port Campaign organizer; and James Smith, professor emeritus of History. Details: 234-5582.

JAN. 9

Mudslingers: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Jan. 9, 17 and 31, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25. Designed for ages 14 and older. Pottery on the wheel with two pots, wear old clothes. Details: 374-5547.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Chick-fil-A, 11001 U.S. 49, Gulfport. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code CHICKFILAGPORT.

Ocean Springs Elks Lodge 2501 baked or fried fish dinner: 5-7:30 p.m., 2501 Beachview Drive. Cost: $10. Details: 872-2501.

"Jesus Christ-Superstar" auditions: 6:30 p.m. Jan. 9, 2:30 p.m. Jan. 10, Nancy School of Dance, 11010 Lamey Bridge Road, D'Iberville. Production schedule for April 10-12. Audition includes one-minute song and short dance. Details: 314-4612.

JAN. 10

Second Saturday Bike Ride: 8 a.m., Beach Park, Pascagoula. Details: 938-2356.

Martin Luther King Jr. Town Hall meeting: 8 a.m. doors open, 8:30 a.m. breakfast followed by panel discussion. D'Iberville Senior Citizen Center, 10450 Lamey Bridge Road. Speakers: Nancy Loome, Mississippi Adequate Education Program; Shane Switzer, Biloxi Public Schools; Deeneaus Polk, Policy Analyst for the Mississippi Economic Policy Center' and Jarvis Polk, Mississippi Health Advocacy Program. Topics of discussion: access to healthcare, medicaid expansion and Mississippi Adequate Education Program. RSVP encouraged. Details: 872-7618.

Third annual Frosty Kroc Run: 8:30 a.m. one-mile run, 9 a.m. 10K and 10K stroller run and 9:15 a.m. 5K and 5K stroller, The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 575 Division St., Biloxi. Cost: $20 adults, $15 children includes Tshirt. Hosted by the Salvation Army Kroc Center. Details: 207-1218.

Your Movement-Your Time Youth Summit: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Jackson County Campus. Interactive seminars and trainings geared toward youth activism. Details: 234-5582.

Pine Needle Basketry workshop: 9:30 a.m.-noon, Crosby Arboretum, 370 Ridge Road, Picayune. Instructor: Judy Breland. Learn methods for basket work. Wear old clothes. Material provided. Cost: $5 members, $7 nonmembers. Details: 601-799-2311.

Teen Art -- Play on the Pottery Wheel: 10:30-12:30 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25 per student. Designed for ages 8-16. Details: 374-5547.

American Legion Oratorical High School Scholarship contest: 11 a.m., St. John's Episcopal Church, at the corner of Porter and Rayburn Avenue. Contest is conducted at local, district and state level. Purpose of contest is to develop basic knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United State in high school students. Hosted by the Emile Ladnier American Legion Post 42 of Ocean Springs. Each contestant will speak 8-10 minutes on their prepared oration. Winners proceed to Indianapolis, Ind. to compete nationally. Details: 547-3792 or 547-3797.

Beekeeping school: 2-5 p.m. Jan. 10 and 17, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Jackson County Campus, Gautier. Lectures and handouts for those interested in keeping bees. Lectures cover what is needed and steps to keep bees. Mentors available for questions at all meeting. Details: 249-4115.

Tango Night at the Beau Rivage: 7 p.m.-midnight, Beau Rivage Casino, 875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Fundraiser benefits the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra. Features honoree Nyron Marshall and other professional tango dancers from all over the U.S. Cost: $75 includes two drink tickets and heavy hors d'oeuvres. Details/tickets: gulfcoastsymphony.net or 896-4276.

Town Mountain-Arts Under the Dome: 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 2301 15th St., Gulfport. Cost: $15 general admission, $10 students. Details: 229-6851 or 863-0047.

JAN. 11

Fundraiser meal for Tony Shields, a St. Alphonsus School employee: 10-2:30 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 421 Washington Ave., Ocean Springs. Proceeds will benefit Tony Shields' family and the medical expenses for their 11-year-old son. Cost: $6 per person or $20 for a family of four to six people.

English/Italian mass and homemade Italian lunch: 11:30 a.m. mass, 12:30-2 p.m. lunch. St. Thomas the Apostle, 720 E. Beach Blvd., Long Beach. Offering collection benefits St. Vincent de Paul Society. Tickets: $12 adults, $6 children ages 4-12. Presented by the Gulf Coast Italian American Cultural Society. Details: 539-4571.

JAN. 12

American Legion Post 1992 meeting: 7-8 p.m., 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier. Details: 497-6422.

JAN. 13

Red Cross blood drive: 8 a.m.-1 p.m., IP Casino, Resort and Spa. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code IPCASINO.

Coastal Mexican Fusion cooking class: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Presented by Chef Sarah Cormier of the Beau Rivage. Make homemade salsa, nachos and more. Cost: $30 members, $35 nonmembers. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

When Women Talk Forum-Women on the Move: 6:30 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Speakers: Karen Sock, Sock Enterprises, Angel Greer, Coastal Family Health Center, Shundral Cole, federal prosecutor and Dixie Newman, Biloxi city Council Ward 3. Details: 234-5582.

JAN. 14

Mississippi Economic Council's Regional Round-Up Jackson County meeting: 7:30-9 a.m., Hilton Garden Inn, Pascagoula. Co-hosted by Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, Jackson County Economic Development Foundation Inc. and the Mississippi Gulf Coast Business Council. Highlighting the strengths of the regions. Details: mec.ms.

Craft Beer Tasting: 6-9 p.m., Walter Anderson Museum of Art, 510 Washington Ave., Ocean Springs. Featuring Chandeleur Brewing Co., Crooked Letter Brewing Co. and Lazy Magnolia. Live entertainment, must be 21 or older to attend. Cost: $15 nonmembers, $10 members. New members are free. Limited tickets. Details: development@walterandersonmuseum.org.

JAN. 15

Red Cross blood drive: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Coast Radio Group, 10250 Lorriane Road, Gulfport. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code CRGIVE.

Veterans caregiver conference: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Biloxi VA Medical Center, 400 Veterans Ave., Recreational Hall, building 17. Provide caregivers with guidance on how to care for themselves and deal with daily activities. Theme: Managing Difficult Decisions and Long Term Planning. Light lunch provided courtesy of Gentiva Hospice. Additional topics include caregiver stress management, transitions of care, end of life care and meaningful activities at home. Parking and shuttles available for attendees. Details/RSVP: 601-987-0020 or 523-5110.

Retired Senior Group luncheon: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Jefferson Davis cafeteria executive dining room. Speaker: David Manasco, Southern Mississippi Area Agency on Aging. Theme: Medicare Program Changes in 2015 and how his agency can help. Details: 896-2549.

Starting a Business--First Steps class: 5:30-7:30 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

An Evening of Poetry and Jazz-Movement with Words: 6-9 p.m., University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Park Campus, Hardy Ballroom, 730 E. Beach Blvd., Long Beach. Sponsored by Southern Mississippi College Arts and Letters, Learning Commons and Gulf Coast Libraries. Featuring Nina Chase, 11th Hour Jazz Ensemble and Romero Burney. Details: 214-3264 or 234-5582.

JAN. 16

Red Cross blood drive: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., VFW Post 2434, 289 Veterans Ave., Biloxi. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code VFW2434.

Basic knitting: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Designed for ages 12 and older. Cost: $40 member, $50 nonmembers, cost includes lunch in the cafe. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Instructor: Maryanne Anthony. Details: 818-2878.

"Anybody Out There?": 8 p.m. Jan. 16-17, 2 p.m. Jan. 18, 8 p.m. Jan. 23-24 and 2 p.m. Jan. 25, Bay St. Louis Little Theatre, 398 Blaize Ave. Cost: $15 adults, $10 seniors 65 and older, veterans, military and students, $8 children younger than 12. Details: 467-9024 or bsllt.org.

"The African Diva Project: Paintings by Margaret Rose Vendryes" opening reception: 5-7:30 p.m. Jan. 16, exhibition/discussion with Margaret Vendryes 2 p.m. Jan. 17, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Vendryes will present a talk focusing on origins of project and role of race and gender identification in contemporary African American communities. Details: georgeohr.org and 374-5547.

Martin Luther King Jr. Gospel Extravaganza: 7 p.m., Grace Temple Baptist Church, 13344 Old Highway 49, Gulfport. Featuring MLK Jr. Coastwide choir, local choirs and praise teams. Details: 234-5582, 234-5582 or 432-0206.

JAN. 17

Community Health and Fitness Expo: 9 a.m.-noon, Mercy Crossing gymnasium, 390 Crusaders Drive, Biloxi. Active games, exercise demonstrations, prizes, health vendors, screenings and more. Details: 234-5582.

Enrollment sessions for the Affordable Care Act: 9:30 a.m.-noon Jan. 17, 5:30-8 p.m. Jan. 27 and 9:30 a.m.-noon Feb. 14, Pass Christian Public Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Presenter: Claudette Jones, certified health care navigator with Coastal Family Health. Bring accurate household income information and birthdates of all dependents. Details: 452-4596.

Mudslingers: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Jan. 17 and 31, Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25. Designed for ages 14 and older. Details: 374-5547.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Bond Baptist Church, 35 Sellers St., Wiggins. In memory of Hannah Bullen. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code BOND.

Red Cross blood drive: Noon-5 p.m., Edgewater Mall, Biloxi. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. birthday celebration. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code MLK.

Meet the Spirits of Beauvoir: 6-6:30 p.m. registration, 7 p.m.-midnight, Beauvoir Jefferson Davis Home and Presidential Library. Cost: $40 purchase at sparasparanormal.com. Refreshments. Presented by Southern Paranormal and Anomally Research. Details: 388-4400, ext. 217.

Fourth Krewe of CASA Mardi Gras Gala: 7 p.m.-midnight, Bay St. Louis Community Hall, Blaize Street. Cost: $40 in advance, $50 at the door. Dinner, silent auction, live entertainment, crowning of CASA King and Queen. Proceeds benefit CASA for abused and neglected children of Hancock County. Details: 344-0419.

Second Liners Mardi Gras Ball: 7 p.m. doors open, 8 p.m. ceremony, Gruich Community Center, 591 Howard Ave., Biloxi. Cost: 25. Formal attire, live entertainment and bring own food and bottle. Hosted by the Second Liners Mardi Gras Club. Details: 424-8085 or 365-9070.

JAN. 19

Coast Wide Fire Safety and Canvassing Event: 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Pelican Landing, 6217 Mississippi 613, Moss Point. Details: 234-5582.

Pinch Pots: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $5 per pot. All ages welcome. Make and decorate a clay pinch pot. Details: 374-5547.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day event: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Free crafts and activities with museum admission. Details: 897-6039.

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6 p.m., St. Rose de Lima Catholic Church, Holy Spirit Center, 301 S. Necaise Ave., Bay St. Louis. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code SRDL.

Discussion on the Mississippi Civil Rights Movement in Contemporary Times: 2 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Presenter: Flonzie Brown-Wright. Presented in conjunction with the Mississippi Humanities Council Speaker's Bureau. Details: 374-5547.

JAN. 20

Red Cross blood drive: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., D'Iberville Elementary School library, 4540 Brodie Road. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code DES.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Hancock North Central Elementary School, 6122 Cuevas Town Road, Kiln. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code HNCE.

Transformation-Theater: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through Feb. 19, Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Designed for girls ages 9-13. Free. Instructor: Kayla Hobgood, Ocean Springs senior. Course teaches basics of theater and promotes self-confidence. At the end of five weeks, girls perform a short play entitled "The Bookcase Fable." Details: 818-2878.

Negrotto's 11th annual African American Art and Heritage Celebration/Movement: 6-8 p.m., 2645 Executive Place, Biloxi. All artists encouraged to participate, with works of black artists and artists who have African American-themed works. Highlights the work of musicians, artists, dancers, writers, poets and others. Details: 388-8822.

Project Management Institute Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter meeting: 6-8 p.m., Bull's Restaurant, 300 Jeff Davis Ave., Long Beach. Guest speaker: Capt. Paul Odenthal, commanding officer, Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport. Details: 547-8555 or pmimgc@gmail.com.

Celebrity cooking class and wine pairing: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Presented by Kelly English. Make a Southern meal. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

JAN. 21

Purl Stitch Knitting: 6-8 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Cost: $30 member, $40 nonmembers. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Instructor: Maryanne Anthony. Details: 818-2878.

JAN. 22

Red Cross blood drive: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Triton Systems, 21405 B Ave., Long Beach Industrial Park. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code TRITON/.

Red Cross blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Diamondhead Community Center. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code DIAMONDHEAD.

Red Cross blood drive: 2-7 p.m., St. Joseph Catholic Church Parish Hall, DePew Road, Gulfport. Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code OGCOMM.

How to Develop a Business Plan class: 5:30-7:30 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

JAN. 23

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6 p.m., H and R Block, 167 Hardy Court Shopping Center, Pass Road and Courthouse Road, Gulfport. Bone Marrow donation will be on site to accept donors. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code TAXES.

Clay Play After School: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Develop skills of working with slabs of clay and create sculptural castles. Cost: $13. Designed for ages 7 and older. Details: 374-5547.

Pete the Cat family cooking class: 6-7:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Make pizza, fruit kabobs and peppermint hot chocolate. Cost: $25 for one parent and one child. $5 for each additional person. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

Pottery date night: 6-8 p.m., Ohr O'Keefe Museum of Art, Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $25 per person. Designed for ages 14 and older. Details: 374-5547.

"August-Osage County": 8 p.m. Jan. 23-25 and Jan. 30-31 and 3 p.m. Feb. 1, Gulfport Little Theatre, 2600 13th Ave., Gulfport. Cost: $15 general, $12 seniors and military, $10 student with ID/ child. Details: 864-7983.

JAN. 24

Man to Man Symposium-Pathways to Manhood: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., International Relief Development, 1223 30th Ave., Gulfport. Adult men engage in discussions and trainings with youth and young males. Speaker: Damien Durr, Children's Defense Fund, Zero Tolerance Policies and Cradle to the Prison Pipeline. Details: 234-5582.

Pete the Cat Pancakes and Pajamas cooking class: 9:30-11 a.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Wear your pajamas and make pancakes and bacon with Pete the Cat. Enjoy singing, dancing and a story. Cost: $25 for one parent and one child. $5 for each additional person. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

Homeless Veterans supply drive: 10-11:30 a.m., 15224 LeMoyne Blvd., Biloxi. Sponsored by Maria Rivera. Collecting socks, coats, personal toiletries, blankets, clothing and more. Details: 424-9067.

"Snow Queen" auditions: 1-3 p.m. Jan. 24, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 26, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Auditions open to students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Come prepared to sing if you are interested in a solo. Details: 897-6039.

Kundalini Yoga Workshop: 2-5 p.m., River Rock Yoga, 2429 W. Commerce St., Ocean Springs. Instructor: Bill Savage. Cost: $35 or $30 if reserved a week before event. Features chanting, music, breathing, body postures and more. Details: 818-4522.

JAN. 26

Red Cross blood drive: 1-6:30 p.m., Edgewater Mall, 2600 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Details: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code EWMALL.

JAN. 27

County Forestry and Wildlife Association annual meeting: 6 p.m. registration, 6:15 p.m. program begins, Lyman Community Center, 13742 U.S. 49, Gulfport. Theme: Government assistance programs for landowners, the Forest Resource Development program and using game cameras in wildlife management. Cost: $20 includes meal and membership. Hosted by The Hancock/Harrison Counties Forestry and Wildlife Association. Preregistration encouraged. Details: 865-4227.

Southern Italian Dinner Party cooking class: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Presented by Chef Skyler Mcveay. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.

JAN. 29

Cash Flow Projections for Your Business Plan class: 5:30-7 p.m., The Innovation Center, 1636 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details/registration: 396-8661, 392-9741 or mssbdc.org.

JAN. 30

Purl Stitch Knitting: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Designed for ages 12 and older. Cost: $40 member, $50 nonmembers, cost includes lunch in the cafe. Supplies needed: size 10 knitting needles and one skein of worsted weight yarn. Instructor: Maryanne Anthony. Details: 818-2878.

Free Friday night: 5-8 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Details: 897-6039.

Pete the Cat event: 6 p.m. Jan. 30, 11 a.m. Jan. 31, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Singing, dancing and photos with Pete in the museum. Cost: $3 members, $12 nonmembers. Details: lmdc.org or 897-6039.