August 3

Want to become a professional organizer, or just reduce the mess in your home? Mindy Godding, lead trainer of local organizing firm Space Matters, will teach a training class at Bluefield College titled “Learn to Organize Like a Pro.” Godding will share tips for every room and discuss the best organizing tools. Class counts as credit toward a Certified Professional Organizer designation from the National Association of Professional Organizers. $199 includes lunch. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. 9211 Arboretum Parkway, Suite 400. 355-7330.

August 9

Put away the toxic weedkillers and chemical fertilizers. “Virginia Home Grown” host Richard Nunnally teaches how to adopt environmentally friendly lawn-care practices and still have a luxuriant, green lawn. $20 members, $30 non-members. 6:30-8 p.m. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. 262-9887, ext. 322.

August 7 and 14

If the kids have run amok all summer, prepare to bring them back to civilization with “If You Please: The Art of Good Manners.” This one-day workshop at Maymont teaches young scalawags, ages 8-11, good communication skills, table manners, appropriate dress and respectful deportment. A formal luncheon is included. Registration is required at least one day in advance. $45 per child, $40 for members. 358-7166, ext. 329.