The next session of the Cincinnati Police Department's Citizens Police Academy is Jan. 16 through March 5, 2008. Designed to provide better understanding between citizens and police, the meetings are 6-9 p.m. Wednesdays. Topics include laws of arrest, use of force, criminal investigation, the mental health response team, domestic violence and personal safety. To apply, contact Monica Ervin at 513-357-7554 or monica.ervin@cincinnati-oh.gov. The application is Jan. 4.

Comment on the County Budget

The public can read and comment on the 2008 Hamilton County Administrator's Recommended Budget at www.hamilton-co.org. The board of county commissioner's holds public hearings on the budget at 6 p.m. Nov. 26 at Nathaniel Greene Lodge and 6 p.m. Nov. 27 at the County Administration Building.

Cause and Effect

Venerable Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche, a revered Buddhist teacher, speaks next week at Gaden Samdrupling Monastery in Colerain Township. Born in Tibet, he was a tutor to the Dalai Lama. At 7 p.m. Nov. 30 he teaches on the topic, "Dependent Origination." For directions and more details of the Rinpoche's public teachings, visit www.gadenusa.org. Admission is free.

Stand for Peace

The Women in Black have been demonstrating against the war in Iraq since it started in 2003. Participants gather with signs in the traffic island at Vine Street and Central Parkways from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Mondays. All peacemakers are welcome, including men and people not dressed in black.