Listings are accepted on a space-available basis. Deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday prior to date of publication at the latest. To submit contest items, mail to Contests, Patuxent Publishing Co. Editorial, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278; email hccalendar@patuxent.com; fax 410-332-6336; or call 410-332-6497.

Soroptimist International of Howard County Call for Applicants — Seeking women head-of-household who want financial assistance to go back to school. This award in the amount of $1,250 will help a woman to obtain additional education, job skills and training. The winner's application will be submitted for consideration for three additional awards offered by the region — one of $5,000 and two of $3,000. 443-622-5689 to request an application, and leave a message with your name, address and phone number, or write to SI of Howard County Foundations Chair, 8321 Main St. P.M.B. No. 101, Ellicott City, MD 21043. Deadline is Jan. 9.