Community Interest

The 2006 Toys for Tots Campaign is under way through Dec. 13. Your support of this worthwhile cause with toys or cash donations will be appreciated. For info, call Ron Base at 295-4778.

BB&T Asks Area Residents to Join in Giving -- An Angel Tree featuring 72 opportunities to help brighten the holiday season for adults who have special needs. Area residents are invited to take a name from the Tree, purchase a gift for the designated person, wrap it and return the present to the bank office.

WHEN: During regular banking hours between now and Dec. 15.

WHERE: In the lobby of the local BB&T financial services center, 200 SW Broad Street, Southern Pines, NC 28387. For more information, contact: Sandra McCrimmon, BB&T financial center manager, (910) 693-2017 or Jeff Nichols, BB&T Public Relations, (336) 733-1472.

Southern Pines Christmas Tree Lighting, Saturday, Dec. 2, at 5 p.m. at the Southern Pines Train Station. Performances by the Golf Capital Chorus and Emmanuel Episcopal Church Choir.

"A Ringing Singing Christmas" is the theme for Christmas at Weymouth, through Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The Weymouth Center and the Gate House will be decorated for the holidays and open to visitors. Tickets are $8 in advance (available in Pinehurst at Faded Rose, Given Book Shop and Cook's Choice; Southern Pines at The Country Bookshop; Seven Lakes at Phoenix Fashions) and $10 at the door. Musical entertainment and refreshments will be offered. For more information go to www.weymouthcenter.org.

"Moore Homes 4 The Holidays" Open House Celebration! Moore Humane Society and The Animal Center of Moore County join forces for a festive, open house celebration on Saturday, Dec. 2, from noon until 3 p.m.Both facilities and their furry residents will be decked out to greet you. Take a guided tour of each facility. Enjoysome refreshments, help get Santa released from the shelter, meet the resident snake,shake paws with a therapy dog, meet a K9 officer.Get acquainted with your local shelters, the work they do and their wonderful furry residents who are all looking for "Moore Homes 4 The Holidays!" Rabies shots will also be available at The Animal Center, for $5. Moore Humane Society, 947-2631, is at 5355 N.C. 22 in Carthage and The Animal Center, 947-2858,is just around the corner at 5235U.S. 15-501.

On Saturday, Dec. 2, the Women of Weymouth extend an invitation to the young generation (ages 3-12) to visit the beautifully decorated Weymouth Center. Children and the adults who accompany them will have the opportunity to tour the home and be musically entertained from 9 to 9:45 a.m. The cost of the tickets is $3 each. In order to accommodate all interested persons, we ask that you call 255-0090for reservations.

The 10th Annual Christmas on the Square will be held Saturday, Dec. 2, in downtown Rockingham with entertainment, crafts and food from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Santa will be there all day. Come join the fun and get ready for the holiday season.

The Carthage Historical Committee's Christmas Tour of Homesis Sunday, Dec. 3, from 2 to 5 p.m. Tickets are $8 before the tour at Centura Bank, Fidelity Bank, or the Municipal Building in Carthage and$10 the day of the tour at the Carthage Museum and tour homes. Info, call 947-5686.

Holiday Open House in Hoke County for the Scottish Heritage House, Mill Prong (c. 1795) Sunday afternoon, Dec. 3, from 2 to 5 p.m. Questions, call 910-692-7272.

Carthage Christmas Tour of Homes, Sunday, Dec. 3, from 2 to 5 p.m. Tickets: $8 before tour at Centura Bank, Fidelity Bank or Carthage Municipal Building located at 4396 U.S. 15/501; $10 day of tour at Carthage Museum, located across from Fry and Prickett Funeral Home, or at the tour homes. Sponsored by the Carthage Historical Committee.

2006Episcopal Day School Candlelight Tour of Homes -- Sunday, Dec. 3, from 1 to 6 p.m., features five holiday-decorated homes in the Pinehurst area. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Please call EDS at 692-3492 for tickets.

The Flora Macdonald Legacy Foundation will hold their Second Annual Ball Kickoff Celebration Sunday, Dec. 3, at the Old Gym on the Flora Macdonald Campus at 200 College Street in Red Springs. Suggested donations of $7 for adults and $3 for those 15 and under will be accepted at the door. Information can be found at the website at www.floramacdonaldball.com.

Creative Christmas Tables, Crafts Sale and Raffle, Dec. 5, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. by Extension and Community Association. More than 25 tables decorated by talented homemakers, interior designers and shop owners, will be displayed. Free admission. Proceeds to help "Save the Cabin" for the Sandhills Woman's Exchange in Pinehurst.Little River Farms Resort Club House Carthage. 910-947-3188.

Sandhills ToastmastersmeetsTuesdays, Dec. 5 and 12, 7 p.m., Van Dusen Hall, Sandhills Community College. Join in establishing Toastmasters in Moore County. Develop confidence,communication and leadershipskills. Membership open, age 18+.See: www.Toastmasters.org.Info: Chris in Whispering Pines, 919-616-6949, or ccnorkus56@earthlink.net

Dec. 7 10, Olde Timey Open House at the Shaw House, Thursday through Sunday, 1 p.m to 4 p.m. Step back in time and partake of old holiday cheer with the Moore County Historical Association at the Shaw House in Southern Pines. Free admission. Corner of S.W. Broad Street and Morganton Road in Southern Pines. For more information call (910) 692-2051 or visit www.moorehistory.com.

An exhibit of historic photographs of early Southern Pines will be on display at the Water and Planning Building at 180 SW Broad Street in downtown Southern Pines. The public is invited to the opening of the exhibit on Friday, Dec. 8, from 3 to 4 p.m. Norris Hodgkins, Jr., will be on hand to discuss the photographs. The photographs are a sampling from Helen Huttenhauer's book, "Young Southern Pines," which was recently republished by the Moore County Historical Association. The images show the town and its residents during the town's early years from the late 1890s to early 1900s.

Moore County Driving Club Carriage Parade, Saturday, Dec. 9, 2 p.m., downtown Southern Pines.

An Early American Christmas At the Malcolm Blue Farm, 1177 Bethesda Road, Aberdeen, (910) 944-7558. Saturday, Dec. 9, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 10, 1 to 4 p.m. Join us as we celebrate the season with muledrawn hayrides, early American children's games, tree decorating, traditional cooking, folk music, and vendors and artisans. Admission: $5 adults and $10 per family. For more info, call 944-7558.

Dec. 9 - 10, Old Timey Open House at the Bryant House, Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Step back in time with the Friends of the Bryant House and the Moore County Historical Association at the Bryant House at Harris Crossroads. Free admission. Located at Harris Crossroads in upper Moore County. For more information call (910) 692-2051 or visit www.moorehistory.com.

ATraditional Christmas Open House sponsored by the Sandhills Woman's Exchange in support of the "Save the Cabin" campaign. The Open House will be held Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the historic Pinehurst log cabin across from the Village Chapel.Wassail and cookies will be served, and wonderful handmade gifts and holiday decorations are available for sale.

In honor of Mark Westbrook, Broad Street Bar and Grill presents "A Christmas BBQ," Sunday, Dec. 10, for Toys for Tots and Sandhills Food Band. For entry, you need two canned goods or a new unwrapped toy. BBQ served at 3 p.m. Santa arrives at 5 p.m. and remains till 7 p.m. Located at 715 SW Broad St., Southern Pines, 695-7077.

Sandhills Community College invites the public to attend the Annual Christmas Concert to be held on Sunday, Dec. 10, at 2 p.m. in Owens Auditorium on the college campus. The program will feature the Sandhills Community College Choir, Guitar Ensemble, and the Moore County Concert Band. The College Choir is directed by Frances Wilson and accompanied by Jennifer Thomas. Students of Sandhills instructor, Danny Infantino, are featured in the Guitar Ensemble and Tim Haley directs the Moore County Concert Band. Free admission.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Moore County is hosting their annual Holiday Dinner Dance on Sunday, Dec. 10, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Southern Pines Elks Lodge.Cost: NAMI members, $10, Non-NAMI members, $15, consumers of mental health services, free. For reservations and information, call 295-1053.

Friend to Friend will sponsor a "Holiday Memory Tree" to be lit Tuesday, Dec. 12, at 4 p.m. at the Carthage Courthouse, first floor lobby. This tree will honor the 53 women, men and children who have died as a result of domestic violence in N.C. so far this year. Marcelle C. Quist, staff attorney for Legal Aid of N.C., Inc., will be the speaker. The public is invited.

Annual Christmas Parade, downtown Southern Pines, Saturday, Dec. 16, at 11 a.m.

Santa Claus will be at the Southern Pines Civic Club Saturday, Dec. 16, following the 11 a.m. Southern Pines Christmas Parade. Favors, refreshments and the opportunity for the kids to talk with Santa. The historic clubhouse is located at the corner of E. Pennsylvania and Ashe St., across from the tennis courts. Parents, bring your camera.

The paintings and stories behind the children's geography book, "Woody and Maggie Walk Across America," Campbell House Galleries, 482 E. Connecticut Ave, Southern Pines, Sunday, Dec. 17, from 2 to 4 p.m. Contact: Arts Council of Moore County: 692-4356 or Bernie Harberts: 695-0989. No charge. Light refreshments will be served, and a print signed by Harberts and Devins will be given to a lucky guest.

The Community Congregational Church of Southern Pines presents "Living Madonnas." Madonna masterpieces will be recreated and brought to life in a unique and inspirational Christmas program of art and music on Sunday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary of The Community Congregational Church, 141 North Bennett St., Southern Pines. Refreshments will be served following the program. Admission is free.

The Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting Santa's Workshop on Friday, Dec. 22, from 10 a.m. until Noon at the Aberdeen Lake Building. This event is for youth ages 4-8. Come and join Santa at his workshop as we do lots of fun things for Christmas. Create some great gifts as we make Christmas cards, tree ornaments, picture frames and a host of other crafts. Festive refreshments available like reindeer sandwiches with lunch served at 11:30 a.m. Enjoy games and a chance to have your child discuss Christmas plans with Mr. Claus! Call the Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department for more information at 910-944-5902.

Sunday, Dec. 31, 6 to 8 p.m., First Eve, downtown Southern Pines.

Christmas Tree Recycling, "Leave One for the Chipper," Saturday, Jan. 6, 2007, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Corner of U.S. 15-501 and Murray Hill Road, Southern Pines, (beside Tripps Restaurant). Bring your Christmas tree for recycling to the corner of U.S. 15-501 and Murray Hill Road. Trees will be chipped into mulch on site. Keep Moore County Beautiful will provide bags for individuals to take free mulch home to use around shrubs, trees or in flower beds. For additional information, contact Joan Neal, Executive Director, Keep Moore County Beautiful, Inc. at 947-3478 or jneal@moorecountync.gov

Business Network International, a business-to-business referral network, meets each Tuesday morning at the Days Inn restaurant at 7:30 a.m. Visitors are welcome.

The Carolina Hotel will offer High Tea the second Friday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon. Cost of $25 per person includes an historic walking tour, followed by classic tea with sandwiches, scones and truffles. Call Resort Services Desk at 235-8415.

The Golf Capital Chorus is looking for new members. Can you carry a tune and do you like to sing? Visit Barbershop Chorus rehearsals on Mondays at 7 p.m. at Community Presbyterian Church, 125 Everette Rd., Pinehurst, or call Skip Ragland at 673-5634.

The Moore Coffee Company presents live music every Friday and Saturday night, 8 to 11 p.m. It is a musician sit-in, and all musicians are welcome to bring their instruments and join in the fun. Place: The Moore Coffee Company, 201 S. McNeill St., Carthage. Info: call 910-947-6122. No charge.

Interested in singing with the Moore County Choral Society? New members may join on Tuesday, Dec. 5, or Tuesday, Jan 2. Registration is at 7 p.m. at Brownson Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall on May St., Southern Pines, followed by rehearsal. Rehearsal is every Tuesday, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m., from Jan. 2 - May 8. The $35 cost covers music and concert attire.The Choral Society is under the direction of Anne Dorsey, and the spring concert will be in associationwith the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra.

Moore County Concert Band The band is always looking for new members. Rehearsals are Monday evenings at 6:30 at Sandhills Community College. The band performs six concerts per year and rehearses September through June. If you now play or have ever played an instrument and would like to play some challenging music, consider joining the MCCB. Information: call 295-9023 or visit the band's Web site at www.moorecountyband.com.

URGENT -- The Red Cross urgently needs all blood types, especially O Positive, B Positive, O Negative, and A Negative, which are at EMERGENCY status. B Negative is at CRITICAL status. Bob Arrington, American Red Cross, 919-605-4132 or local office at 244 SW Broad St., Southern Pines, 692-8571. Must be 17 or older.

The local chapter of Sweet Adelines International, Sandhills Harmony Chorus, is looking for new members. Meet Thursday evenings, from 7 to 9 p.m., at Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church, Southern Pines. Call Carole Roth at 255-1081 for information.

Concerts

Three Tenors to perform Friday, Dec. 1, at The Fair Barn in Pinehurst. Cocktail party starts at 7 p.m., with beverage proceeds going to Tufts Archives, followed by the concert at 8 p.m. For tickets, call the Pinehurst Village Hall, 295-1900, to use credit card. Other locations for tickets are Given Memorial Library, King's Collectibles, and The Country Bookshop. Tickets are $40, including heavy hors d'oeuvres.

Moore County Choral Society presents "Everywhere Christmas Tonight!," Owens Auditorium, Sandhills Community College, Saturday, Dec. 2, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 3, at 4 p.m. Info and tickets, Ann Covington, 315-8336.

"Sing a Song of Christmas" by Ed Kee and Rhonda Frazier will be presented by the children and preschoolers of Aberdeen First Baptist Church on Wednesday, Dec. 6, at 6:30 p.m.

Barron Maness will be performing a special Christmas concert at Our Lady of the Americas Catholic Church on Thursday and Friday, Dec. 7 and 8. The church is located at 298 Farmer's Market Road, off N.C. 211, east of N.C. 220, near Candor. Concerts begin at 7:30. Tickets are $12.50 per person. For more information and to order tickets, call (910) 673-4077.

A "Broadway-Style Musical" for Christmas - two performances of "One Bethlehem Night" will be presented on Friday, Dec. 8, and Saturday, Dec. 9, at 7:30 p.m. at Page Memorial United Methodist Church located at the corner of Main and Poplar Streets in Aberdeen.

The Moore Philharmonic Christmas Concert will be held on Saturday, Dec. 9, at 7:30 p.m. at Southern Pines Elementary School. We will be holding a silent auction along with the concert and will have bath baskets, pre-decorated Christmas trees that will be delivered after the concert, tickets to various events, candles, wine and cheese baskets, quilts,paintings, jewelry, etc. We will also be announcing the winner of the concerto competition.

The Carolina Brass will perform Sunday, Dec. 10, at 3 p.m. at the Carolina Hotel, Grand Ballroom, in Pinehurst. Sponsored by the Friends of Given Memorial Library, the concert is $20 for adults, and $10 for children under ten. Tickets are available at the Given Library, Given Book Shop, The Country Bookshop and Cook's Choice.

The Opera Company of North Carolina announces its 2006-2007 season: "The Crucible," Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m., and Feb. 25, 2 p.m., Memorial Hall, Chapel Hill; and "La Bohme," April 13, 7:30 p.m., and April 15, 2 p.m., Progress Energy Center, Raleigh. Tickets from $20-75; subscriber, group, and student discounts are available. More information: Call 919-783-0098 or visit the Web site, www.operanc.com

Dance Performances

Terpsichore presents its 14th annual full-length production of the holiday classic, "The Nutcracker," on Saturday, Dec. 16, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 17, at 2 p.m. at Owens Auditorium, Sandhills Community College. Featuring over 150 local student dancers. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for children/students/senior citizens and may be reserved by calling 695-1116.

Lessons and Dances

Ballroom Dancers of the Sandhills club holds dances at the Olde West End gym on Dec. 1 and 15, Jan. 5 and 19, Feb. 2 and 16, Mar. 2, 16, and 30, Apr. 20, and May 4. Each dance includes a brief lesson. For information call Tony and Arlene Hantjis at 235-0998, visit www.pinehurst.net/~ballroom/, or e-mail ballroom@pinehurst.net

The Carolina Pines Ballroom Dancers, USA Dance, will host a dinner dance Friday, Dec 8, at Whispering Pines Country Club. Cash bar and recorded dance music from 6 to 7 p.m., live dance music until 10:30. Cost : $33 for nonmembers of USA Dance. Call 919-499-9199. Mail check (deadline is Dec. 2) to USA Dance 6091, c/o Mrs. Joe Soderquist, 1915 Wedgewood Drive, Sanford, NC 27332.

Carolina Performing Arts Center is currently enrolling 2 1/2 - 5 yr. olds for the 2006-07 winter and spring trimesters of "Dance to your Own Tune," developed by London's The Royal Academy of Dance. Please call 695-7898 for information.

Duffie Dancers Round Dance Club is an all phase club. Dances are held every Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Olde West End Gym. The cuer is Lucille Hensley. Info: Max and Frances Lamberti at 949-2566.

Line dance classes are held on Tuesday evenings at the V.F.W., 615 S. Page St., Southern Pines. Cost is $9 for four weeks of classes. Call Doris at 692-8878 to register.

Model A Square Dance Club is an advanced level club. Dances are on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in the Olde West End Gym. Dancers new to the area are welcome. The caller is Jimmy Roberson. Info: Leo and Ruth Ellen Ganster, 295-5786.

Pinehurst Ballroom Dance Studio will have class lessons Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. (no partners needed). Private lessons by appointment. Go to our Web site at www.pinehurstballroomdance.com or call Claudia at 295-3003.

Shag Dance Lessons at Mint Juleps with Budand Nanci. Six-week class, 6:30 for Level I (no experience), 7:30 Level II (some experience),$65 per couple, $35 single. Info/Register 690-9176 or 246-2223.

Stardust Dinner Dance Club hosts eight dances each year from September through May, with the majority held at the Country Club of Whispering Pines. Live music and fine dining add to an evening of fun for all who enjoy dancing. Visitors may attend one dance as a guest for the cost of dinner only. Reservations and info: 295-1916 or 295-1540.

Taylor Dance is now accepting students for the fall and winter sessions. Classes are offered in jazz, hip hop, tap, ballet and competitive dance. Call 295-1320 for information.

Terpsichore is accepting registration for winter classes in classical ballet, jazz, tap, creative movement, theater dance, and adult classes. For more information, call 695-1116.

Yellow Rockers Square Dance Club is a Plus Level Club that meets every Thursday from 8 to 10 p.m. at the Old West End Gym. For info, call Harry and Jean Vogt at 295-4185 or Tim and Marj Dwyer at 246-2421.

Drama/Theater Auditions

Moore OnStage will be holding open auditions for its upcoming production of "Big River" to be performed at the Sunrise Theater, Feb. 2 through 11. Auditions on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Taylor Dance Studio, 308 Ampersand Rd., behind Food Lion on N.C. 5 in Aberdeen. Bring a headshot, resume and music to sing. All auditions will include singing. For information, call 255-0667.

Sandhills Theatre Company will hold auditions for Agatha Christie's murder mystery "The Mousetrap" at 7 p.m., Monday, Dec. 4, or Tuesday, Dec. 5, at the Ellery Building in Pinebluff. Needed are four women, ages 20 to 50, and four men, ages 17 to 60. For more info, visit the Web site at www.sandhillstheatre.com or or call Sandra Epperson at 639-4089.

Area Movie Theaters

Call listed venue hotlines for most up-to-date information.

Sandhills Cinemas: 695-1100

SunFlix at the Sunrise Theater: 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines, 692-3611, www.sunrisetheater.com. $7 adults, $6 matinees, $5 under 12.

Movie times:7:30 p.m. evenings and 2:30 p.m. matinees on Saturday and Sunday.

Upcoming Films:

Monday-Wednesday, Dec. 11-13, 7:30 p.m., "Changing Times," a French drama/romance about a man who tries to win back the first love of his life after 30 years. Starring Catherine Deneuve, Gerard Depardieu, Simone Signoret. In French with subtitles.Unrated-100 min.

Tues.-Sat., Dec. 26-30; 7:30 p.m. and Sat., 2:30 p.m., "For Your Consideration," Christopher Guest directed and acted in this comedy about a motley group of actors working on a low-budget independent film. A rumor stirs that the film might be considered for an Oscar--everything changes! Rick Gervais, Catherine O'Hara, Parker Posey. PG-13; 86 min.

Tues. Wed., Jan. 2-10; 7:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Sat.-Sun., "The Queen," this proclaimed British film stars Helen Mirren as Queen Elizaabeth in a fictional account of real events in the wake of the sudden death of Princess Diana in August 1997. A revealing, witty portrait of the British royal family and the government. Also starring: Michael Sheen, James Cromwell, Sylvia Syms, Helen McCrory. PG-13; 1 hr. 43 min.

Performances

Sandhills Theatre Company presents the holiday classic, "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever," December 1, 2, 6, 7, 8, 9 at 8 p.m., and Dec. 3 and 10 at 2:30 p.m. at the Sunrise Theater in Southern Pines. For reservations call the box office (910) 281-0661. To bring your school group to one of the Student matinees on Dec. 8, contact Mary Anne Richard at 947-3211.

Givens Performing Arts Center at UNC Pembroke offers several productions of interest during the year. Call 910-521-6361 or 800-367-0778 for ticket prices and availability.

Entertainment

Venues may charge admission or a cover charge or may change schedules for some events. Call venues for details.

Basil's, 211-H in Olmsted Village, 1.5 miles west of the traffic circle and opposite Homewood Suites, features Donn Stanley on the piano on Saturdays. Reservations: 235-3737.

Brats European Bistro, 219 NE Broad Street, Southern Pines, offers live entertainment by Roger Levesque every Saturday night. Info: 910-246-2728 or www.hausofbrats.com.

Coach Light Cafe, 290 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines, sometimes offers live entertainment. Call for reservations and information, 692-4449.

Davis Community Center, one mile from Robbins, hosts bluegrass music on the third Friday of each month.

Dugan's Pub, No. 2 Market Square, Pinehurst. Karaoke on Thursdays, from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Call 295-3400.

Elliott's Gourmet Marketplace, 905 Linden Rd., Pinehurst. They provide different workshops and wine seminars in their new cooking school. A full dinner menu is also available. Information: 295-FOOD (3663).

Italian Table Restaurant presents live entertainment nightly. Location: 136 Grant St., Seven Lakes. Reservations strongly encouraged at 673-4725.

The JFR Barn will end its season of wine dinners on Thursday, Nov. 30. The 2007 wine dinner schedule will be available Dec. 28 atTheJFR Barn website www.jfrbarn.com

Maness Pottery and Music Barn features bluegrass, country, and gospel pickin' and singing around 6 p.m. every Tuesday night. No cover; donations accepted. Located six miles west of Carthage on N.C. Hwy 24/27. Call 948-4897 for info.

May Street Market, 1010 N. May St., Southern Pines, hosts live music every Friday night from 7 to 10 p.m. No Cover. Phone: 692-4110. Dec. 1: Randy Hughes Band

Mint Juleps, 155 Hall Ave., is a Southern Pines private club for people 25 years and older. Wednesday is open mic night, 8 p.m., no cover. Dance lessons and entertainment. Call (910) 246-2223 for moreinfo or www. mintjulepsclub. com

Neville's, located at 130 W. New Hampshire Ave., Southern Pines, is open Sunday through Saturday from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. Dec. 8: Maliheh; Dec. 9: Dan Speller & the Band of Brothers (cover) Dec. 15: The Willow Creek Duo; Dec. 22: Sam Milner; Sunday, Dec. 31, New Year's Eve, DJ Buzz. Call 692-1939 or www.nevillesclub.com.

O'Donnell's of downtown Southern Pines hosts weekend live entertainment for members and guests as often as possible and features Wednesday night guest bartenders with tips going to charity. For information, call 695-1915 or go to www.patodonnellspub.com.

The Potter's Caf features live music every Saturday night from 7 to 11 p.m. The caf is at 201 South St. in Aberdeen. Info: 944-1250.

Sandhills Bowling Center offers opportunities for bowling. Address: 2239 N. Pinehurst Street, Aberdeen. Info: 295-9610.

Shucker's Oyster Bar, 135 Pinehurst Ave., Southern Pines, features live entertainment on their deck Saturdays and Wednesdays. No cover. Call 695-1000 for more info.

The Sports Page Bar and Grill, off U.S. 1, Aberdeen, at The Commons, hosts karaoke each Wednesday at 9:30 p.m.

The Wine Cellar and Tasting Room, 241 N.E. Broad St., downtown Southern Pines, is open as a casual wine bar on Wednesday and Friday nights. Info: 692-3066.

Galleries

Art at The Market Place -- Enjoy the fine art gallery featuring the original paintings of local artists Cele Bryant, Betty DiBartolomeo, Sara Gray, Fay Terry and Joan Williams. Located at 2160 Midland Rd., Pinehurst. Open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 215-5963 or 695-0424 for more information.

Artist Alley, a collection of juried art and fine crafts from local and regional artists, is located on Broad Street, above Sweet Basil Cafe in Southern Pines. They are open Wednesday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Info: 692-6077, www.artistalley.net

The Artists League of the Sandhills, located at 129 Exchange Street in Historic Aberdeen. Exhibits are open to the public Monday through Saturday from 12 noon until 3 p.m. Call 944-3979.

Broadhurst Gallery, 2212 Midland Road, Pinehurst, showcases works by nationally recognized artists. Hours are Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. Call 295-4817 for more information.

The Campbell House Galleries, 482 East Connecticut Avenue in Southern Pines presents "Two plus Two," works by Betty DiBartolomeo, Joan Hodges and Georgia and Byron Knight Dec. 1 - 29. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and every third weekend of the month from 2 to 4 p.m. For more information, call 692-4356, or visit www.artscouncil-moore.org.

Central Security Systems Gallery is in the new CSI building at 370 NW Broad St., Southern Pines, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, featuringearly worksby Joanne Gill Worth from her private collection. For more info, call 295-4316.

Chanticleer, located at 118 NW Broad Street, Southern Pines, hosts a gallery featuring N.C. artists Jeanette Sheehan, Jessie Mackay, Kristina Bach and Linda Griffin. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Info: 695-7070.

The Exchange Street Gallery -- 12th Annual Exhibit features the largest collection of original art in the region.Raffle tickets are available for an original painting by local artist, Harry Neely. The exhibit will remain open through Dec. 16 from noon to 3 p.m. daily.The gallery is located at 129 Exchange Street, Aberdeen. For appointments, tours or information call: The Artists' League of the Sandhills at 944-3979 or go to www.artistleague.org

Gap Creek Candle Company, 116 NW Broad St., Southern Pines, showcases the arts and crafts of the Sandhills, King's Pottery and Crystal King's of Seagrove, local pine-needle basketry and birdhouses, original paintings and prints by Susan Edquist of Pinehurst, and Gap Creek's scented candles. Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 695-0029.

The Hastings Gallery on the SCC campus is now featuring work by Ray Martin, chair of the Art Department at Greensboro College. The exhibit will be on display until Dec. 15. Naturalistic landscapes and fantastic paintings by this highly acclaimed artist are on display. The narrative aspect of these images are in the grand tradition of Southern and Native American storytellers. Info: Teresa Reynolds at 695-3775.

Hollyhocks Art Gallery, located in The Shops At Pinehurst Place, at 905 Linden Road, Pinehurst, features original artwork by local artists, Deane Billings, Irene McFarland, Marie Travisano, and Jane Casnellie.Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 to 5. Info: 295-2489.

Jewels of Pinehurst is a gallery of contemporary jewelry handmade in platinum and gold. 7 Market Square, Pinehurst. Monday - Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 295-2824.

Kate Buie and Hannah Cole have a gallery featuring their work (and the work of other regional artists) at 113 West Main Street, Aberdeen, in the old Silk Route building. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 639-6401 for information.

McMillan & Wife Art Gallery, 150 N. Bennett St., Southern Pines. The gallery is open Monday through Friday. Info: 692-4879.

Sky Art Gallery is the home of West 23rd Street Photography, Wednesday through Saturday 12 to 5 p.m., 602 Magnolia Drive, at the entrance to Magnolia Square, Aberdeen, 944-9440 or www.skyartgallery.com

White Hill Gallery, 407 U.S. 15/501, Carthage, just south of Sanford, offers a variety of pottery, from modern functional wares to petroglyph-design pitfired pots, to whimsical pieces, and to pottery with colors from a rainbow. Info: Sandra Layne, proprietor, at 947-6100.

Lectures

"Sandhills at a Crossroads: Development and Why Design Matters," Thursday, Dec. 14, 7 to 8 p.m., Sunrise Theater, 250 NW Broad Street, Southern Pines. Presented by: The Classical Design Foundation. Ed McMahon, Senior Fellow at the Urban Land Institute, Washington, D.C., will be the speaker. Admission is free and open to the public.

Workshops

-- The Artists League of the Sandhills announces its slate of upcoming classes and workshops. Payment is required at time of registration. Call 944-3979 between 9-12, and 1-5 weekdays.

-- N.C. Pottery Center is now holding registration for new classes and workshops at the North Carolina Pottery Center located at 250 East Ave., Seagrove. Call 336-873-8430 or go to www.ncpotterycenter.com.

Literary

The Country Bookshop

The Country Bookshop, 140 NW Broad St., Southern Pines, announces its upcoming author events. Call 692-3211 for information.

DECEMBER

Dec. 7 -- 4 p.m., Sandy Berger, "Great Age Guide to Online Health and Wellness."

Dec. 14 -- 4 p.m., Paul Cuadros, "A Home on the Field."

Nature

-- Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve often presents weekly programs. The preserve is at 1024 Fort Bragg Road in Southern Pines. Call 692-2167 for info.

Recreation Classes

-- Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department is sponsoring these activities. Call 944-5902 for registration, information and fees.

Weekly Activities (Aberdeen Lake Building)

Mondays: 7 to 9 p.m. Tai Chi classes. Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Chair Exercise classes for Seniors.

Tuesdays and Thursdays: 11:45 a.m. 12:45 p.m. Stretch & Tone classes for adults of all ages. $3 for Aberdeen residents, $8 for non-residents for four weeks (8 classes).

Wednesdays: 9 to 12 noon. Art classes. Participants must provide their own materials.

-- Table tennis (ping-pong) is available at TheMoore County Department of Aging recreation room, 302 Monroe Street, Carthage, Mondays through Fridays between 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. Call 947-2881 to reserve the table.

-- The Pinehurst Parks and Recre-ation Department is offering classes for adults at the Pinehurst Village Hall.

Reunions

Seeking 1995 graduates of Union Pines High School for a reunion, Saturday, Dec. 23, at 6 p.m.,at Midland Country Club. Call Jenny Allenbaugh at (919) 642-0004 or jennyallenbaugh@hotmail.com

Pinecrest High School, Class of 1986, seeking members for a reunion. Contact Jimmie Smith at jsmith2702@bellsouth.net.

Sports

The American Singles Golf Association-Pinehurst Chapter is active in golf and social events for adult singles. Visit the Web site at www.pinehurst.singlesgolf.com for information on activities, or call Charlie at 910-603-4540.

The Rock, Rockingham Dragway Events -- for more info on these events, call 910-582-3400.

Tours

-- Aberdeen Parks and Rec

The Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department often sponsors trips. For details, call 944-5902.

-- ARTours

Join the Arts Council of Moore County and experience the art of travel. Reservations: 692-4356 or visit www.artscouncil-moore.org.

"The Light in the Piazza," Feb. 14, 2007, at the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium.

Philadelphia Flower Show, March 5-7. Tour includes the best of Philadelphia's celebrated art, history and horticulture, flower show, Tut Exhibit with meals at the elegant Acorn Club and the historic Bookbinders Seafood House.

New York City, March 28 April 1, 2007. Tour includes Turandot at the MET, a VIP tour of Brooklyn Heights, a classical concert on board a private houseboat, and the award-winning "Mary Poppins."

Sicily, and the best of Southern Italy, April 22 May 8, 2007. Visit Sicily's quaint hill towns, experience the glories of ancient civilizations, and relax in the colorful seaside villages.

-- Kirk Tours -- McAdenville and Concord Mills, Dec. 4, $35; Monet in Normandy, Dec. 9, $40 ; 12 Days of Christmas, Dec. 11, $45. Dec 15, Christmas at Carolina Opry at Myrtle Beach, $90. www.kirktours.com or call 910-295-2257.

n The Moore County Historical Association sponsors exciting programs, historical lectures, and tours of house-museums and of special places both near and far. For reservations and details call 692-2051 or visit www.moorehistory.com.

Alaska Discovery Land and Cruise Tour, June 7-18, 2007. A twelve-day Alaska cruise and tour that begins at the Shaw House in Southern Pines. Highlights of the tour include visits to Fairbanks, Stern Wheeler, Discovery Alaska Pipeline, Home Hosted Dinner in Fairbanks, Domed Rail Car to Denali, Denali National Park, Haines, Juneau, Ketchikan, and the Inside Passage. Includes a seven-night Holland America Alaska Cruise Tour through Glacier Bay. $50 discount if booked by November 15.

Shaw Properties Museum-Houses Tour. A trio of historic houses built between 1700 and the 1800s that depict the daily life of early county settlers. Open for tours Tuesday through Friday, from 1 to 4 p.m. Free. Morganton Road and SW Broad Street, Southern Pines.

Bryant House Properties Museum-Houses Tour. Two historic houses built between 1700 and the 1800s that depict the daily life of early county settlers. Bryant House and McLendon Cabin are open for tours each Sunday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. To arrange tours at other times, call 673-0908. Free.