Newton Citizen

Feb. 20

Tax Preparation

Free tax preparation for senior citizens, persons with disabilities or low income, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tech-Able, Assistive Technology Resource Center. Please call to register and for pre-screening, 770-922-6768.

XYZ Organization

Deadline to register for XYZ Organization lunch meeting on Feb. 26, Ben Mance presenting program, First Baptist Church of Conyers, 2100 Ga. Highway 138, 10:30 a.m. Info: 770-483-8700.

Rockdale Girls Softball

The Rockdale Girls Softball 2009 season registration has been extended through Feb. 20, girls aged 3 to 18, Info: 770-929-1604 or visit rockdalegirlssoftball.org.

Christian Concert

Abiding Grace Lutheran Church hosts concert with Chris Driesbach, Total Childcare Experience, 25 Lover's Lane Road, Covington, 7:30 p.m. Info: 770-385-7691 or e-mail: vicar@abidinggrace.com.

Benefit Program

The Minister Alliance hosts benefit program, the Rev. Kerwin Scott Sr. speaking, The Lily of The Valley Baptist Church, 1058 Green St., Conyers, 7:30 p.m. Info: 770-483-4550 or 678-413-0074.

Feb. 21

Tax Preparation

Free tax preparation for senior citizens, persons with disabilities or low income, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tech-Able, Assistive Technology Resource Center. Please call to register and for pre-screening, 770-922-6768.

Gospel Singing

Gaithers United Methodist Church hosts gospel singing featuring Halls of Glory Renewed and the Steve Biggers Band, 1375 Newton Factory Bridge Road, Covington, 7 p.m.

Newborn Opry

Newborn Opry presents a night of bluegrass, featuring Lizzy Long, The Larios Brothers and The Rays, Newborn School, 6 p.m. Info: 404-815-9973 or visit newbornopry.com.

Arbor Day Celebration

An Arbor Day celebration will be held at George Street Park, Oxford, 10 a.m. to noon. Info: 770-784-8428 or e-mail emullen@emory.edu.

Benefit Singing

Blessed Hope Baptist Church hosts benefit singing for church building fund featuring Hydes Chapel and Calvary Baptist Churches' choirs, 2505 Ga. Highway 20 N., Conyers, 7 p.m. Info: 770-483-3659 or 770-483-9236.

A Time of Prayer

Newton County Board of Commissioner J.C. Henderson hosts a time of prayer for God to help guide us through tough economic times, Covington Square, or on the steps of the Historic Courthouse if it rains, 2 p.m.

Concert

Trails for Christ Cowboy Church hosts concert featuring Greg McDougal, Pony Express Auction Barn, corner of Ga. highways 11 and 142, Covington, 6 p.m., free admission, love offerings accepted. Info; 770-385-3380 or 678-249-8601.

Feb. 22

Youth Choir Anniversary

The Youth Ministry of the Good Hope Baptist Church, Annual Youth Choir's Anniversary, 3 p.m., Good Hope Baptist Church, 1142 Ga. Highway 162, Covington. Info: 770-787-4928.

Black History Month

Black History Month service, Macedonia Baptist Church, 4 p.m., 1052 Barton St., Conyers.

Black History Play

Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church presents, "Who Shot Brotherhood," a Black History play, Mansfield, 11 a.m. Info: 770-595-4725.

Comedian/Singer

Living Way Worship Center hosts comedian/singer Scott Davis, 4051 Ga. Highway 81, Covington, 6 p.m. Info: 770-364-8167, Bishop Tim Needham.

An Afternoon of Music

The Fellowship of Jesus Christ Church hosts an afternoon of music, 1581 Lester Road, 3 p.m. Info: 770-860-1207.

The Singing Auctioneer

Greater Love Baptist Church hosts Dane Bailey, "The Singing Auctioneer," 5325 Ga. Highway 81, Covington, 11 a.m. Info: 770-316-1230, Pastor Matt Murphy.

Women's Day

Pleasant Hill CME celebrates annual Women's Day, Evangelist Bessie Jones speaking, 1201 Pleasant Circle, Conyers, 11 a.m. Info: 770-483-1452.

Feb. 23

Lunch-N-Learn

The Newton County Extension Office hosts lunch and learn, "Nuisance Wildlife Control," 1113 Usher St., Suite 202, Covington, noon, bring a sack lunch and drink. Info: 770-784-2010.

Dave Ramsey Classes

Standing In The Gap Ministries hosts the Dave Ramsey classes, a 13-week program, 1012 S. Main St., Conyers, 7 p.m. Info: 678-862-9528, Dexter Kilgore or gendes4@bellsouth.net.

Black History Month

DeKalb Technical College's Student Affairs Departments hosts "Celebrate As We Educate , Moments in Black History," Covington Campus Auditorium, 16200 Alcovy Road, Covington, reception at 6:30 p.m., program at 7 p.m. Info: 404-297-9522, ext. 1291.

Recital

Oxford College of Emory University presents a recital by lyric baritone Riccardo Chiapetta featuring music by Stephen Foster and Maurice Ravel at 8 p.m. in Williams Hall on the campus of Oxford College, admission is free.

Feb. 24

Rockdale County Soil

The Rockdale County Soil and Water Conservation District monthly meeting, Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission's Regional Office, 1500 Klondike Road, Suite A109, Conyers, 8:30 a.m. Info: 770-761-3020.

RMC Blood Drive

Rockdale Medical Center is hosting a community blood drive, Rockdale Medical Center, 1412 Milstead Ave., East Tower Classroom, Conyers, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Info: enter the sponsor code "rockmed" at www.givelife.org.

Pancake Supper

The Church of the Good Shepherd, Episcopal, host pancake supper, 4140 Clark St., Covington, $5 for adults, $3 for children, or $15 for families, 5 to 7:30 p.m. Info: 770-786-3278.

Retired Educators

The Rockdale Retired Educators Association meeting, Always Banquet and Convention Center, 1613 Milstead Road, Conyers, 11:30 a.m. Info: 770-760-8224.

Feb. 25

Scrapbooking

Scrapbooking class, Olivia Haydel Senior Center, 6 to 8 p.m., cost is $25, advance registration required. Info: 770-922-4633, Susan.

Celebrating Lent

Red Oak United Methodist Church hosts the Imposing of the Ashes to celebrate the beginning of lent, 15105 Ga. Highway 36, Covington, 7 p.m. Info: 770-784-6587.

Newton-Rockdale ABWA

The Newton-Rockdale Chapter of American Business Women's Association meeting, Holiday Inn Express, 1302 Green Street, Conyers, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Info: 404-444-5817 or e-mail tholley@tradebank.com.

Writing Workshop

Georgia Perimeter College hosts writing workshop, "Writing Made Easy," GPC, Newton Campus, Room 1280, 2 to 3 p.m., free, seating is limited. Info: e-mail: deborah.byrd@gpc.edu.

DAR

The Col. John McIntosh National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Chapter meeting, winners of the American history essay contest speaking, Epiphany Lutheran Church, 2375 Ga. Highway 20, Conyers, 3:30 p.m. Info: 770-918-1766.

Ash Wednesday

Abiding Grace Lutheran Church of Covington hosts Ash Wednesday service, meeting at Total Childcare Experience, 24 Lovers Lane Road, Covington, 7:30 p.m. Info: 770-385-7691.

Feb. 26

Christian Singles

The Rockdale/Newton Christian Singles Group hosts its dinner group, Jim 'N Nick's BBQ, 2275 Ga. Highway 20 in Conyers, 7 p.m. Info: 770-785-4453.

Pond Management

The Newton County Extension Office hosts a pond management class, learn about stocking, feeding, weed control and more, Newton County Library, 6 to 9 p.m. Info: 770-784-2010.

'The American Clock'

The Newton County Arts Association presents "The American Clock," Feb. 26, 27 and 28, Oxford College, Tarbutton Performing Arts Building, 8 p.m., tickets $5. Info: e-mail: clemons@emory.edu with the night, number of tickets and any special requests.

Board of Education

The Rockdale County Board of Education public hearing, opportunity to share comments concerning the development of the school system budget for fiscal year 2010, Central Board Room, 954 N. Main St., 6:45 p.m.

Board of Education

The Rockdale County Board of Education regular monthly meeting, Central Office Board Room, 954 N. Main St., 7 p.m.

Bible Classes

Abiding Grace Lutheran Church hosts Bible information classes, a 12-week program, Thursdays, 5510 Ga. Highway 212, Covington, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Info: 770-385-7691, Vicar Aaron West or e-mail: vicar@abidinggrace.com.

XYZ Organization

The XYZ Organization, lunch meeting, Elvis tribute artist Ben Mance presents program, First Baptist Church of Conyers, 2100 Ga. Highway 138, 10:30 a.m. Info: 770-483-8700.

Feb. 27

Pancake Supper

The Oxford Lions Club hosts annual pancake supper, Palmer Stone Elementary School, 1110 N. Emory St., Oxford, $5 for adults and $3 for children, 5 to 8 p.m. Info: 770-786-4896.

Movies That Matter

Conyers First United Methodist Church, Movies That Matter, showing "Fireproof," 921 N. Main St., kids movie offered and childcare provided by making reservations, 7 p.m. Info: 770-483-4236.

Nancy Guinn Library

The Nancy Guinn Library holding an after-hours event - African-American Read-In, stories, activities and snacks, 864 Green St., 7 p.m.

Feb. 28

Step and Dance Competition

Jayann Youth Network and Girls To Women sponsoring 2nd annual step and dance competition, Newton High School, 1 p.m. Info: 404-797-0624 or e-mail g2w@bellsouth.net.

Seasonal Craft Program

Newton County Library hosts a seasonal craft project, for all ages, in the Story Room at Newton County Library, 7116 Floyd St., Covington, 3 p.m. Info: 770-787-3231.

'Behind the Mask'

Good Hope Baptist Church will present the play "Behind the Mask," by Anna Kay P. Murray, Good Hope Baptist Church, public is invited, 4 p.m. Info: 770-787-4928.

Free Throw Contest

The Knights of Columbus Council hosts annual Free Throw Contest. Boys and girls ages 10 to 14 are invited, J.P. Carr Gym, 986 Hardin St. in Conyers, Sign-ups begin at 9:30 a.m. Info: 678-553-3278 or 770-330-1281 or e-mail joeharding@bellsouth.net.

Rockdale Democratic Party

The Rockdale County Democratic Party members meeting, Rep. Pam Stephenson (District 92) speaking, Johnson Park Recreation Center, continental breakfast served, 9 a.m. Info: e-mail: alsobrookc@netzero.com

March 1

'The Shirley's'

The Community Church of Praise hosts a gospel night featuring "The Shirley's," 10 Birds Crossing, Covington, 6 p.m. Info: 770-787-4311 or e-mail lewallss@airproductshc.com.

March 2

Dr. Seuss Day

The Nancy Guinn Library celebrating Dr. Seuss Day, storytime at 10:30 a.m., crafts, balloons and more throughout the day, 864 Green St., Conyers.

Rockdale Homeowners

The Rockdale Coalition of Homeowners and Civic Associations, 1400 Parker Road, Conyers, 6 p.m.

March 3

Peek's Chapel Showcase Day

Peek's Chapel Elementary holds a PCE Showcase Day, showcasing performing arts, physical education, and more, Peek's Chapel Elementary, 2800 Avalon Parkway, Conyers, 8 to 10 a.m. Info: 770-761-1842 ext. 130.

March 4

Scrapbooking

Scrapbooking class, Olivia Haydel Senior Center, 6 to 8 p.m., cost is $25, advance registration required. Info: 770-922-4633, Susan.

March 5

Celebrate Life Banquet

Refuge Pregnancy Center hosts annual Celebrate Life Banquet, tickets are $12.50 or $100 for a table of 8, 6:30 p.m. Info: 770-922-5939.

Board of Assessors

Rockdale County Board of Assessors work session, 981 Milstead Ave., BOA Conference room, 10 a.m.

March 6

American Musical Journey

The Newton County Arts Association presents Dallas Brass - American Musical Journey, 7 p.m., Porter Hall Auditorium, Newton High School, tickets: $20 Adults, $15 senior citizens, $10 students. Info: 770-786-8188 or www.newtoncountyarts.org.

March 7

MEGA Sports Camp

Conyers Church of God hosts MEGA Sports Camp for children, ages 5 through 12, Conyers Church of God, 1825 Ga. Highway 138 in Conyers, 9 a.m. to noon, $15, Info: 678-614-1942 or visit www.ccogignite.multiply.com.

Jail Museum Tours

The Rockdale County Historical Society sponsors tours of the Olde Jail Museum, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: 770-929-4270 or e-mail harriett.gattis@conyersga.com.

March 9

Newton County Board of Elections

The Newton County BOE and Voter Registration regular monthly meeting, 1113 Usher St., Suite 103, Covington, 2 p.m. Info: 770-784-2055.

March 11

Scrapbooking

Scrapbooking class, Olivia Haydel Senior Center, 6 to 8 p.m., cost is $25, advance registration required. Info: 770-922-4633, Susan.

March 13

Special Speaker

CrossPoint Christian Church hosts Ben Alexander, author of "Out of Darkness," 4550 Ga. Highway 20, Conyers. 7 p.m. Info: 770-483-1887 or www.espministries.com.

March 15

Fellowship of Love Day

Sanctuary of Christian Fellowship hosts Fellowship of Love Day, Medical Alliance Building, 1775-A Access Road, Covington. Info: 770-787-3305.

March 17

St. Patrick's Day Parade

St. Patrick's Day Parade, Olde Town Conyers, 4:30 p.m. Info: 770-602-2606.

Citizens Sheriff's Academy Class

The Rockdale County Sheriff's Office is taking applications for its Citizens Sheriff's Academy Class, Sheriff's Office, 911 Chambers Drive, Conyers, Tuesdays, March 17 through May 12, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Info: 770-918-6726.

March 19

Board of Assessors

Rockdale County Board of Assessors work session, 981 Milstead Ave., BOA Conference room, 10 a.m.

Remembering Lewis Grizzard

The Rotary Clubs of Covington and Social Circle host "Remembering Lewis Grizzard - In His Own Words," special performance by Bill Oberst Jr., proceeds benefit the American Heart Association and local Rotary projects, Social Circle Theater, Social Circle, 2 to 4 p.m., tickets: $19.99 per person and can be purchased at Pinnacle Bank, The Covington News or the Rockdale Citizen, or by mail: Remembering Lewis Grizzard, P.O. Box 164, Social Circle, GA 30025.

March 21

Resource Fair

The Newton/Rockdale Resource Fair for families of children with disabilities birth through adult, 1400 Parker Road, Conyers, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

March 26

An Evening of Learning

Rockdale County Public Schools hosts an evening of learning for parents, faculty and the community, session 1 begins at 4:45 p.m., session 2 begins at 7 p.m., Conyers Middle School. Info: https://pdx.rockdale.k12.ga.us.

March 28

March for Babies

March of Dimes' March for Babies, Olde Town Pavilion, Conyers, registration starts at 8 a.m., walk begins at 9 a.m. Info: 678-546-0023, Stephanie Moraille or Smoraille@marchofdimes.com.

Defensive Driving Class

AARP sponsors a defensive driving class, AARP members pay $12, non-members pay $14, Heritage Hills Baptist Church, 987 Ga. Highway 212, Conyers, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Info: 770-922-7965 or e-mail jane30281@yahoo.com.

March 31

RREA Scholarship

Application deadline for the Henry Gibbs RREA scholarship sponsored by The Rockdale Retired Educators Association. Info: 770-483-6761, Joanna Farmer or by mail at 3812 Rosemary Lane, Conyers, GA 30013.

The Community Calendar is a forum for announcing meetings and events of nonprofit organizations of Rockdale and Newton counties. To submit information, call 770-483-7108, ext. 401, fax the information c/o Julie Anderson at 770-483-5797 or e-mail event information to julie.anderson@rockdalecitizen.com. Please include an event description, sponsoring organization, date, time, place, phone number and contact person. Announcements are printed as space is available in date order.