Please e-mail all calendar briefs to calendar@themeridianstar.com. Calendar items are listed by date and it may take a while before an event submitted weeks in advance appears in the paper.

F.Y.I.

• Pre-K Registration, if you reside in the Meridian Public School District attendance zone and have a child who will be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2019, please contact the Federal Programs office at 601-484-4960, Feb. 4-March 22, 2019.

• The Newton Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its 16th annual Loose Caboose Arts and Crafts Festival, Saturday, March 30, 9 a.m.-4 p..m. in Newton. If you are interested in being a Craft or Food Vendor applications are now available and can be found online at www.newtonchamberms.com or available inside the Newton Chamber’s office in the Newton Depot, 128 S. Main St. during office hours. Vendor Application deadline is March 1. FMI: 601-683-2201.

• The veterans food pantry is still open to all honorably discharged veterans and widows of veterans at the DAV Bldg. 4101 19th St. Open Tuesday-Thursday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. POC Patti Lindner at 601-485-1813.

• The Multi-County Community Service Agency, Inc. provides transportation to Fresenius Dialysis on Highway 39 in Meridian and transportation to MIDD on College Dr. in Meridian, Monday-Saturday from 5:30 a.m.-5 p.m. FMI: Please contact Delphine Gaines, Transportation Coordinator, at 601-934-1911 Cell; 601-485-1214 Office; or 601-483-4838 Leave a message.

• Eden Foundation, an outreach to the community. The crisis hotline is available 24 hours a day 601-453-4946.

• Lauderdale County Veteran Service Office at 1827 23rd Ave. is open from 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday and 8-11 a.m. on Friday. Call for appointment. Walk-ins welcome. FMI: Jesse Barnett 601-482-9811.

• Lunch Bunch AA meets at Firehouse, 3753 19th Street Monday-Saturday, 12:15-12:45 p.m.

• VFW Post 79 – Hours of operation are Saturday 1-11 p.m. Monthly Post members meetings are every 2nd Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. along with the VFW Auxiliary. Saturday’s 8-11 p.m. we host our weekly Dance. The present band is Southern Fried. We also want to announce that we do rent our facility for wedding’s, birthday parties, anniversaries, etc. Rental fees: $250 plus $45 clean up fee for main hall and $75 plus $45 clean up fee for Auxiliary room. We also have a large outdoor area with a covered grilling gazebo with wood burning grills. FMI: Michael Alexander Commander at Post, 601-485-4042, or cell, 601-604-1496 and Steven Vinet Adjutant/Quartermaster at Post, 601-485-4042 or cell, 601-490-5997.

• Happy Hour AA meets at Firehouse daily from 5:30-6:30, 3753 19th Street.

• Big Book AA meets at Alliance, 5000 Highway 39 North Sunday-Thursday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. – Friday/Sunday, 5:30-6:30 p.m., and Friday/Saturday from 7:30-8:30 p.m.

• Quitman Serenity AA meets Tuesday/Thursday 7-8 p.m. and 11 a.m.-12 p.m. on Saturday at 205 Kirkland Drive.

Weekly:

Monday

• Noon-1 p.m. – The Diabetes Prayer and Support Group meets the second Monday of every month in the private dining room hospital cafeteria at Rush Foundation Hospital. Bring your lunch. The next meeting will be Jan. 14. FMI: Contact Debbie Lane RN at 601-703-9681. debbie.lane@rushhealth.com.

• Noon – The Meridian First Ladies Civitan Club meets every second and fourth Monday of each month at noon in the Rush Hospital Private Dining Room on the third floor.

• 12:15 p.m. – The Queen City Duplicate Bridge Club meets every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at the Meridian Activity Center. FMI: 601-479-4925.

• 5:30-8 p.m. – Civil Air Patrol MS 102 Composite Squadron at Key Field ANG Base. FMI: georgetpurvis@gmail.com or www.facebook.com/montgomerycompositesquadron.

• 6:30-8 p.m., Monday, Celebrate Recovery group meets at NorthPark Church, 7770 Highway 39 North. FMI: 601-482-1322 or www.facebook.com/northparkchurch.net.

Tuesday

• Noon – Meridian Civitan Club meets in the Rush Hospital Private Dining Room. (except every fifth Tuesday), FMI: 601-938-6409.

• Noon – Meridian Exchange Club meets at Red Lobster. FMI: 601-479-3954.

• Noon – Meridian Downtown Optimist Club meets at Western Sizzlin’. FMI: 601-693-2336.

• 12:45 p.m. – The Queen City Duplicate Bridge Club meets every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at the Meridian Activity Center. FMI: 601-479-4925.

• Noon-1 p.m., Tuesdays, Refuge Christian Recovery, a meeting for women whose loved ones suffer from alcohol and drugs, meets at First Presbyterian Church, Founders Room, 905 23rd Ave. FMI: Charlie 601-917-6277.

• 5:30 p.m. Rotary Club of East Mississippi – Meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday each month at The Daily Grind.

• 5-6:30 p.m. – NAMI Meridian would like to invite any adult diagnosed with a mental illness to join the Connection Support Group at the Wesley House Community Center, 1520 8th Ave. NAMI stands for National Alliance on Mental Illness and is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating and supporting those living with mental illness and their families. A Family Support Group meets the second Tuesday of each month at the same time and place. FMI: Call 601-917-1474 or 601-527-3734. NAMI Meridian Affiliate’s email address is namimeridian@gmail.com and mailing address is PO Box 8563, Meridian, MS 39303.

• 5:30-6:30 p.m., Tuesday/Thursday, Al-Anon meetings at Firehouse, 3753 19th St.

• 6:30 p.m., 3rd Tuesday of the month, Disabled American Veterans Ch. 56 meets at 4101 19th St. Food pantry available 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday. FMI: Commander Dan Ward 601-485-1813.

Thursday

• 11:30 a.m. – Meridian Lions Club meets at Rush Hospital Cafeteria. FMI: 662-693-1103.

• 12:45 p.m. – The Queen City Duplicate Bridge Club meets every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at the Meridian Activity Center. FMI: 601-479-4925.

• 6 p.m. – Thursday Vino and Van Gogh meet at the Meridian Museum of Art. FMI: 601-693-1501.

• 5:30 p.m., 2nd Thursday of the month, American Legion Post 257 meets at Temple Theater Ballroom. Fellowship followed by a meeting of both the Legion and Auxiliary. FMI: David Sloan 601-481-3949.

• 6 p.m. – VFW Post #79 Men’s and Lady’s Auxiliary meets the 2nd Thursday of each month. FMI: 601-701-6706.

Friday

• Longino Center Dance, Pecan Ave. behind Longino Fire Department in Philadelphia, open every Friday/Saturday night from 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Admission $8. Live music, free cokes/water, family atmosphere. FMI: Sam 601-728-0313.

Daily:

Saturday, Feb. 23

• 3:30 p.m. – Friends will gather at Sandy Ridge Bluegrass Park for a day of fellowship, food, pickin’, and grinnin’. Bring a covered dish for supper at 6 p.m. then hang around for some bluegrass music with possible banjo, mandolin, guitar, and fiddle players. FMI: 601-644-3701. Admission is free. Clarkdale School first road to the right, go down 3 or 4 miles CR 358.

• 7 p.m. – Four Weddings and An Elvis at Meridian Little Theatre. Tickets call 601-482-6371 or www.meridianlittletheatre.com.

Sunday, Feb. 24

• 2 p.m. – Four Weddings and An Elvis at Meridian Little Theatre. Tickets call 601-482-6371 or www.meridianlittletheatre.com.

• 4 p.m. – Join R.B. Matthews Temple 739, Daughters of Elk, for their annual Black History Program at 1423 34th Ave. The featured speaker will be Councilwoman Kimberly Houston. Refreshments served.

Monday, Feb. 25

• 9 a.m. – CSpire/MHS Software Development Pathway – Representatives from C Spire, Mississippi State University’s Center for Cyber Education, and Meridian Community College will visit Meridian High School in the auditorium and share information about an exciting new program to prepare 10th and 11th graders for the workforce. FMI: Contact Rob Smith, CTE Director, 601-483-3331.

• 11 a.m. – Adult DIY Canvas Pot Holders at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

• 5:30 p.m. – School Board Meeting in the conference room at the Meridian High School Multi-Purpose Bldg. located at 2320 32nd St.

• 7 p.m. – Four Weddings and An Elvis at Meridian Little Theatre. Tickets call 601-482-6371 or www.meridianlittletheatre.com.

Tuesday, Feb. 26

• 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m. – The Downtown Optimist Club of Meridian’s 72nd annual Pancake Jubilee in The Temple Theatre Ballroom. Tickets are $5 each in advance and can be purchased from any Downtown Optimist Club Member or $6 at the door. FMI: 601-483-4404 or 601-693-8473.

• 9 a.m.-1 p.m. – AARP Tax-Aide volunteers will assist taxpayers with their 2018 tax returns at United Way, RSVP 4817 N. Park Dr. Please bring a copy of your previous year (2017) tax return, 2018 tax documents, picture ID, and Social Security cards for all family members. Reservations needed at this location. FMI: 601-482-0512.

• 10 a.m. – Baby/Toddler Polar Bear Ornament Craft at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library. Chess Club meets at 4:30 p.m.

• 7 p.m. – Four Weddings and An Elvis at Meridian Little Theatre. Tickets call 601-482-6371 or www.meridianlittletheatre.com.

Wednesday, Feb. 27

• 11 a.m.-1 p.m. – CYSHCN Services (Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs) will have an Informational Meeting at East Mississippi Power Association, 2128 MS-39, Meridian. Attend one of the sessions: Session I: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or Session II: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Refreshments provided. RSVP today. 601-724-8770.

• 4:30 p.m. – Young Adults 7th-12th Grade DIY Mardi Gras Masks at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Thursday, Feb. 28

• 9 a.m.-1 p.m. – AARP Tax-Aide volunteers will assist taxpayers with their 2018 tax returns at EMEPA, 2128 Hwy. 39N. Please bring a copy of your previous year (2017) tax return, 2018 tax documents, picture ID, and Social Security cards for all family members. FMI: Leave a message at 601-692-2758. First come, first served at this location.

• 4-6 p.m. – The Meridian Public School District is hosting its annual career fair at the Meridian High School Freshman Academy, 2320 32nd St. FMI: 601-483-6271.

• 4:30 p.m. – K-6th Grade Crinkle Tissue Paper Polar Bear Craft at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Friday, March 1

• 4-8 p.m. – Puppet Building Workshop at The MAX. Learn the process of building large parade puppets from the Wood & Strings Theatre company. Open to high school students. Class size limited to 10. Free with registration.

Saturday, March 2

• 9 a.m.-6 p.m. – Mississippi Day at The MAX: Happy Mardi Gras! We will celebrate Mardi Gras with our discount admission: Admission for both The MAX and the Jim Henson Exhibition if $8 Adults, $4 Youth 6-17. Kids 5 and under are free for all exhibits. FMI: 601-581-1550.

• 9 a.m.-noon – The Mississippi Children’s Museum – Meridian invites you to Dr. Seuss’ Silly Birthday Celebration at The MAX courtyard. The fun starts with a Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast the enjoy Dr. Seuss character appearances, Oobleck, crafts, story times, games, and more. This event is free to the public.

• 5-6 p.m.- Wood & Strings Puppet Theatre at The MAX. “Out of the Mist, a Dragon” is the story of a young man’s journey of self-discovery. Free and open to the public.

• 7 p.m. – The Meridian Community Fine Arts Division presents Peter Pan in the McCain Theatre – performed by students from the Lauderdale County School District. Admission: Adults $10/Children $5. For tickets call 601-484-8696.

• 8:30-11:30 p.m. – Mardi Gras Masquerade After-Party – music by LuV Undercover, food trucks, and beverages for sale. Your admission gets you one drink ticket. Costumes encouraged. Free for MAX members or with a Mardi Gras Symphony Concert ticket stub. $20 cover charge.

Sunday, March 3

• 9 a.m.-noon – Meridian Children’s Museum-Meridian will host Dr. Seuss’ Silly Birthday Celebration at the MAX Courtyard.

• 2 p.m. – The Meridian Community Fine Arts Division presents Peter Pan in the McCain Theatre – performed by students from the Lauderdale County School District. Admission: Adults $10/Children $5. For tickets call 601-484-8696.

Monday, March 4

• 11 a.m. – Adult Mardi Gras Bracelet at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Tuesday, March 5

• 10 a.m. – Baby/Toddler Dr. Seuss Craft at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library. Chess Club meets at 4:30 p.m.

• 6 p.m. – Meridian Public School District presents Music In Our Schools Month Concert in the MHS Auditorium. Participating elementary schools are Crestwood, Oakland Heights, Parkview, Poplar Springs, T.J. Harris, West Hills.

Wednesday, March 6

• 4:30 p.m. – Young Adults (7th-12th grade) Game Day at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Thursday, March 7

• 4:30 p.m. – K-6th Grade Cat in the Hat Craft at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

• 5 p.m. – The Meridian Chapter of Miss. Valley State University will have its meeting at the Council of Organizations Bldg. 814-45th Ave. All alumni in Meridian and the surrounding counties are asked to attend as we finalize our preparations for our banquet April 5. FMI: 601-350-0255. Tickets are now available for the banquet.

Monday, March 11

• 11 a.m. – Adult Ladybug Shamrock Craft at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

• Noon-1 p.m. – The Diabetes Prayer and Support Group meets the second Monday of every month in the private dining room hospital cafeteria at Rush Foundation Hospital. Bring your lunch. FMI: Contact Debbie Lane RN at 601-703-9681. debbie.lane@rushhealth.com.

Tuesday, March 12

• 10 a.m. – Baby/Toddler Leprechaun Magnet at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Wednesday, March 13

• 3 p.m. – Spring Break Movie for all ages Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Thursday, March 14

• 4:30 p.m. – K-6th Grade Shamrock Wreath Craft at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Friday, March 15

• 7 p.m. – The U.S. Navy Band in Concert – Sea Chanters 2019 National Tour at the Meridian Temple Theatre. FMI: 601-693-5353 or 214-938-5656 or visit www.navyband.navy.mil. All concerts free.

Monday, March 18

• 11 a.m. – Adult Coloring at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Tuesday, March 19

• 10 a.m. – Baby/Toddler Colorful Snail Tissue Paper Craft at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library. Chess Club at 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, March 20

• 3-5 p.m. – Choose Stocks Wisely Seminar – Part I, Riley Campus, Deen Bldg. Computer Lab 101. You must register in advance by March 18. Cost of the seminar is $25. FMI: Contact Suzanne Parker, 601-484-0156 or sparker@meridian.msstate.edu.

• 4:30 p.m. – Young Adults (7th-12th Grade) STEM (Making Electromagnets) at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Thursday, March 21

• 4:30 p.m. – K-6th Grade Bug In a Jar at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library. Genealogy 2-3 p.m.

Saturday, March 23

• 8 a.m.-3:45 p.m. – GRE Workshop, College Park Campus. MSU students – $45, General public – $65. You must register in advance. Deadline to register is Wednesday, March 20. Register today, 601-484-0140.

Monday, March 25

• 11 a.m. – Adult DIY Wind Chimes at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Tuesday, March 26

• 10 a.m. – Baby/Toddler STEM (Memory Game) at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library. Chess Club meets at 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, March 27

• 4:30 p.m. – Young Adults (7th-12th Grade) DIY Journals at the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Thursday, March 28

• 4:30 p.m. – K-6th Grade Lego Day at The Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Monday, April 8

• Noon-1 p.m. – The Diabetes Prayer and Support Group meets the second Monday of every month in the private dining room hospital cafeteria at Rush Foundation Hospital. Bring your lunch. FMI: Contact Debbie Lane RN at 601-703-9681. debbie.lane@rushhealth.com.

Wednesday, April 17

• 3-5 p.m. – Choose Stocks Wisely Seminar – Part II, Riley Campus, Deen Bldg. Computer Lab 101. You must register in advance by April 15. Cost of the seminar $25. FMI: Contact Suzanne Parker, 601-484-0156 or sparker@meridian.msstate.edu.

Thursday, April 25

• 7 p.m. – MCC’s Arts & Letters Series production of The Color Purple at MCC McCain Theatre. The show may not be appropriate for children under the age of 13. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students. FMI: 601-484-8696.

Friday, April 26

• 6 p.m. – Relay for Life and Meridian Community College Soccer Field. This year’s theme is Finish the Fight Against Cancer. FMI: Contact Debby Delshad at 601-480-6100.

• 7 p.m. – MCC’s Arts & Letters Series production of The Color Purple at MCC McCain Theatre. The show may not be appropriate for children under the age of 13. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students. FMI: 601-484-8696.

Saturday, April 27

• 7 p.m. – MCC’s Arts & Letters Series production of The Color Purple at MCC McCain Theatre. The show may not be appropriate for children under the age of 13. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students. FMI: 601-484-8696.

Sunday, April 28

• 2 p.m. – MCC’s Arts & Letters Series production of The Color Purple at MCC McCain Theatre. The show may not be appropriate for children under the age of 13. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students. FMI: 601-484-8696.

Monday, May 13

• Noon-1 p.m. – The Diabetes Prayer and Support Group meets the second Monday of every month in the private dining room hospital cafeteria at Rush Foundation Hospital. Bring your lunch. FMI: Contact Debbie Lane RN at 601-703-9681. debbie.lane@rushhealth.com.