Community Interest

Applause for Paws, a musical event featuring Buffalo Thunder and the McKenzie Brothers, will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17, at the Ironwood Cafe. Funds raised will benefit Solutions for Animals. Drinks will be available for purchase with complimentary appetizers provided by the Ironwood Cafe. All musician "tips" will go directly for the care of the SFA rescued animals and are tax-deductible. For info, call 246-0840.

Weymouth's Supper on the Grounds from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18. Tickets, which include barbecue with all the trimmings as well as drinks and desserts, are $18. Two musical groups will entertain. Call 692-6261 for reservations.

Seven Lakes Fire Department will hold an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13. There will be free refreshments, displays and door prizes.

The Moore County Kennel Club presents Camp Lejeune Canine Section military working dogs with their handlers in a demonstration at noon Saturday, Sept. 13, in the center ring at the Kennel Club show at the Harness Track. For more info, call Maryann Phillips at 295-5018.

The Moore County Kennel Club will hold its annual all-breed dog show, rally and obedience trials Saturday, Sept. 13, and Sunday, Sept. 14, at the Pinehurst Harness Track. The gates open at 8 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. Admission is free, parking $5. A microchip clinic is set from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and costs $20. A rabies clinic will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for $5. Booths of doggie interest, food and information on all dog-related items available.

A benefit singing will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, at North Moore High School, 1504 North Moore Road, Robbins, featuring the Swordsmen, Amazing Grace, and Hammer-n-Song. Funds raised will go to assist with medical expenses for Jerry and Diane Russell.

Sandhills Woman's Exchange opens Wednesday, Sept. 3, with a new schedule. Lunch room --Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and sales room -- Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Cabin will be closed on Mondays. New volunteers are always needed. Call 295 4677.

County 101 is a seven-week series on how county government works, in an effort to help citizens become more informed and involved in the beautiful community. It kicks off Thursday, Sept. 25, with orientation. Classes will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. in selected departments throughout the county. To register for this free course, visit Moore County's Web site or call Eli Arroyo-Allen at (910) 947-6363 for additional information.

Weymouth Center will host a Children's Book Character Tea from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28. Children may dress up as their favorite book character if they choose. The cost is $15 for adults and $5 for children under 12. Call 692-6261 for reservations.

The Sandhills Chapter of the Antique Automobile Club of America and Village of Pinehurst Parks and Recreation Department will host an antique auto show from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at the Pinehurst Harness Track. Admission is free. Food and handicap-accessible parking available. For more info regarding entries, call (910) 949-2420 or (910) 692-1313.

The second annual Twang Town Throw Down to benefit Hugs Across America is set for 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13 at the Sunrise Theater, Southern Pines. Featured groups are McKenzies Mill and John Karl, with Kalamity Jane. Admission is $20. Tickets are available at O'Donnell's Pub, Southern Pines.

A dog activity day to benefit the Spay and Neuter Clinic of the Sandhills will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at Sunninghill Farm, 1650 Youngs Rd., Southern Pines. Admission is $10 per car. Classes are $5 each. Event to be held rain or shine. To sign up for terrier trials, call Clive Rose, 692-1095; for fun classes, call Peggy Baldwin at 246-6311; for general information, call Wendy Preble at 245-3056, or Cynthia Williams at 245-1230.

A fall fashion show and luncheon fundraiser will be held at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, at The Country Club of Whispering Pines. Cost is $16. For reservations and info, call 949-2509 before Sept. 5.

The second annual Walking and Wagging Dog Walk-a-Thon & Festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Cannon Park. Enjoy dog contests, music, adopt-a-thon, food, kid's activities and more. The first 100 walkers registered will receive a T-shirt and goody bag. Visit www.moorehumane.org for more information or call 695-6429.

Tickets are on sale for the annual fall fashion show and luncheon, to be held at noon, Monday, Sept. 15, at Beacon Ridge Country Club. Hosted by Susan Marks of Phoenix Fashions. Call 673-5998 for details.

First Friday will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, in the open lot next to the Sunrise Theater, downtown Southern Pines. Big Fat Gap will perform. Food and beverages will be available. Free admission.

Gemma Gallery, 48 Chinquapin Rd., Pinehurst, will host a showing of new designs to celebrate their 15 years in business. The showing will be held Friday and Saturday, Sept. 26-27, at the gallery. For more info, call 295-3010.

The Carolina Hotel offers High Tea the second Friday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon. Cost is $25 per person. Call Resort Services Desk at 235-8415.

Inn at the Bryant House will host a murder mystery dinner Thursday, Sept. 25, featuring a 60s theme. Participants are to dress as famous people from that decade.

Kindermusik - for newborns to 3 years. Newborns to 18 months: Monday at 3:30 p.m. 18 months to 3 years: Monday at 4:15 p.m. or Tuesday at 12:10 p.m. Fall registration is being held now. Contact Susan Wright at 910-295-4863 or www.susan.kindermusik.net.

The third annual Oktoberfest will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Fair Barn, Pinehurst. The Gootman Sauerkraut Band will perform. There will be several food and beverage stations available. The American-German Club will lead dances and contests. Costume prizes will be given for the best couple, best female and male. Tickets are $20 and will be available Friday, Aug.15, and will include your choice of food. For more info, call 295-0166.

Open mike poetry night is held at 7 p.m. on the last Thursday of every month at Starbucks. Come 30 minutes prior if you wish to read. Info, call Jessica at (910) 315-2949.

Sandhills Children's Center will hold its 12th annual Festival of Trees, Wednesday, Nov. 12, through Sunday, Nov. 16, at the Carolina Hotel. Daily admission is by donation, and ticketed events are $75. For more info contact Teresa Copper or Kathy Desmond at 692-3323 or www.FestivalofTrees.org.

The Sandhills Quilters Guild and the Village of Pinehurst Parks and Recreation are co-sponsoring a quilt show, "Quilting in the Pines III," Friday, Sept. 19-20, at the Fair Barn, Pinehurst. All quilters are invited to show or enter their quilts. For more info, or for registration forms, call Ellene Place at 315-2080,or Liz Stern at 295-4017. The deadline for submitting forms is Monday, Aug. 18.

Visit and tour the Shaw House properties, three historic houses built between the 1770s and 1820s. Located at the corner of Morganton Road and SW Broad Street. Gift shop offers books and photo prints of local interest. Free admission. Hours are 1:30 to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday. For more information, call 692-2051 or visit www.moorehistory.com.

The Southern Pines Welcome Center, located in the restored passenger train depot on Broad Street between New Hampshire and Connecticut Avenues, is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Wednesday-Saturday. The welcome center contains cultural items, photos, up-to-date tourism information about the distinctive sites around Southern Pines, and activities. For information, call 692-2263.

Choral and Dance

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.

Ballroom dance lessons are held every Sunday from 4 to 5 p.m. at Mint Juleps, 155 Hall St., Southern Pines Mint Juleps also hosts beginners' ballroom dance lessons, at 6 p.m. Wednesdays, and intermediate lessons at 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Smoke-free dancefloor. Call 246-2223 or 215-5791 for more details.

Ballroom dance lessons (cued) waltz, foxtrot, swing, rhumba, cha-cha and more are taught by Penny Lewis at the Old West End Gym on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. Experienced round dancers are invited to attend the dances at 7:30 p.m. on Mondays. For info, call 295-2590 or 673-1623.

Ballroom Dancers of the Sandhills will begin its eighth year on Friday, Sept. 5, at the Olde West End Gym. The Friday dances begin with a dance lesson at 7:15pm followed by Rhythm and Smooth dancing from 8 to 10 p.m. Dances for 2008 will be on Sept. 5, 19; Oct. 3, 24; Nov. 7, 21; Dec. 5, 19. An open house for new dancers will be held on Friday Sept. 19. For further info, contact Bryan and Margaret Cropley at 295-2730.

Carolina Performing Arts Center will hold fall classes. For more info or for registration, call 695-7898. Fall registration is being accepted for ages 3 to adult.

Fred Astaire Dance Studio holds Friday night ballroom dance aprties from 8 to 9:30 p.m. For info, call 295-1106 or (910) 585-2572.

Line dance classes are held on Tuesday evenings at the V.F.W., 615 S. Page St., Southern Pines. Cost is $10 for four weeks of classes. Call 692-8878 to register.

The Moore County Choral Society, under the direction of Anne Dorsey, begins its 2008-2009 season Tuesday, Sept. 2, at Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church, Southern Pines. Registration will be held at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall and rehearsal will begin at 7:30 p.m. New member registration will continue through Tuesday, Sept. 9. Both male and female voices are needed. No auditions required. Rehearsals are held at Brownson from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday. Dues are $35, and include the music. High school students may join for $20. Concert attire may require additional cost. For more info, call John Pfisterer at 692-3371.

Pinehurst Ballroom Dance Studio offers professionally taught social ballroom dance lessons. Private or group lessons are taught. For couples or singles. Specialization is in weddings, debutante balls, proms and cruise lessons. Info, call 295-3003, or visit online at www.pinehurstballroomdance.com.

The Sophisticated Ladies Dance Troupe (seniors 55 years and over) will interview prospective members willing to make a commitment to weekly rehearsals on Mondays and Thursdays. Dance experience is helpful but not required. For more info, call Jo Ann at 295-8051 or 295-2590.

Stardust Dinner Dance Clubhas dinner and dancing most every month at a local country club. The schedule includes ballroom-style dancing to six of the area's finest bands. Most of the dinner dances are held onthe fourth Thursday of each month at Whispering Pines Country Club. Anyone may come as a guest for one dance for the cost of dinner.Call Kadie at 295-1916.

USA DANCE hosts a dance in Carthage on the second Saturday of each month. Lesson time is from 7 to 8 p.m., with general dancing from 8 to 10 p.m. Cost is $7 for nonmembers. The dance is held on the second floor of Sinclair Building, across from Fred's Discount Store. Singles and couples are welcome. For more info, call 692-5280.

Yellow Rockers Square Dance Club meets every Thursday from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Olde West End Gym. For info, call Jan at 215-9313 or MaryLou at 944-7835.

Music/Concerts/Theater

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. $7 adults, $6 matinees, $5 under 12. Movie times:7:30 p.m. evenings and 2:30 p.m. matinees on Saturday and Sunday.

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

The Golf Capital Chorus is looking for new members. Visit Barbershop Chorus rehearsals on Mondays at 7 p.m. at Community Presbyterian Church, 125 Everette Rd., Pinehurst, or call Fred Wolferman at 692-5930.

The Moore Philharmonic is a community orchestra for adult and student musicians. New members are welcome. Rehearsals are from 6:30 to 8 p.m. September through May, at Sandhills Community College, Pinehurst. For more info, visit www.mporchestra.com for a complete rehearsal schedule, or contact Eric Kopecky at 944-3452.

Sandbox Players, a new community theater organization, will hold open auditions for actors and interviews for technical crew positions on Sept. 2-3, starting at 6:30 pm at The Homewood Suites Hotel at Olmsted Village in Pinehurst for the play "Moon Over Buffalo." No appointment is necessary. All positions are on a volunteer basis. Performances are the weekends of Oct. 17 26. For info, call 528-2134.

The PlayHouse and The PlayHouse Jr., divisions of Taylor Dance, will be performing "Peter Pan" Saturday, Sept. 6, at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 7, at 2 p.m. at Southern Pines Primary School, 1250 W. New York Ave. Tickets, which are available at the door, are$8 per adult and $5 per child 12 and under. For info, call 295-1320.

The Sandhills Songwriters Guild meets every Thursday night at Easy's Sports Bar and Grill, off N.C. 211 in Olmsted Village West. Free cover. Call (910) 215-0346 for more information.

The local chapter of Sweet Adelines International, Sand-hills Harmony Chorus, welcomes new members. The women's chorus sings a cappella four-part harmonies, barbershop style. They rehearse from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays at Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church. Call Jan Menges, 215-8758, or Emmie Trautmann, 255-6350, for info.

Entertainment

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

Bingo at the "V"-- from 7-9:30 p.m. every Thursday at VFW Post 7318, 615 S. Page St. in Southern Pines. Snack bar available. For more info., call 692-3772.

Coach Light Trattoria, 290 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Southern Pines. Live piano music. Grand opening will be 5:30 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12. Lunch is from noon to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16, and will be served Tuesday through Saturday. Dinner is served 5:30 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Call 692-4449 for tickets, reservations and details.

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

Deep River Coffee, located on Main Street, Robbins, hosts live music every Thursday night from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Dog Nation Grill, 301 Poplar St., Aberdeen, hosts live music every Friday.

Dugan's Pub, No. 2 Market Square, Pinehurst. Karaoke on Thursdays, from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. The Hot Rod performs Friday, Aug. 15, and Saturday, Aug. 16, beginning at 9 a.m. Call 295-3400.

Elliott's Gourmet Marketplace, 905 Linden Rd., Pinehurst, provides different workshops and wine seminars in a new cooking school as well as a special series of luncheons and dinners. Free wine tastings from noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Info: 295-3663.

Flynne's Coffee Bar, 115 NE Broad Street, Southern Pines, hosts live music. From 7:30 to 10 p.m. Board game fun from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15. Rae Ann Kinney from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16.

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

The Jefferson Inn, W. New Hampshire Ave., Southern Pines, hosts a mellow jazz trio, from 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays. Call 692-9911 for details.

The JFR Barn -- The JFR Barnholds wine dinners each month. To make a reservation, call 692-7700, or visit www.jfrbarn.com.

The Lounge at Hyland Hills is open Thursday-Sunday noon-until. Adults 21 and over. U.S. 1 north from Southern Pines.

Maness Pottery and Music Barn features bluegrass, country, and gospel pickin' and singing around 6 p.m. every Tuesday night. Located six miles west of Carthage on N.C. 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. Dinner reservationsrequired. The Cowboy Band will perform today (Friday, Aug. 29). For reservations and info, call 692-4110.

Mint Juleps, 155 Hall Ave., Southern Pines, offers a variety of musical styles every night of the week. Eddie Barrett and the Goodman Legacy Orchestra perform from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7.

The Moore Coffee Company, 201 S. McNeill St., Carthage, 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. Info, call (910) 947-6122. No charge.

Neville's is open 3 p.m. to 2 a.m., Sunday through Saturday. For more info please call 910-692-1939 or visit online at www.nevilles club.com.

O'Donnell's of downtown Southern Pines hosts weekend live entertainment for members and guests and features Wednesday night guest bartenders with tips going to charity. Info, call 695-1915 or visit www.patodonnells-pub.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.

The Sandhill Classic Street Rod Association will host a "cruise-in" on the first and third Fridays of each month, from 5 to 8 p.m. in the parking lot at Al's Diner, Aberdeen. No charge.

Sandhills Singles, an adult group, meets Friday evenings at 6:30 at various restaurants. Join them for conversation and dining out. Info, call 692-8888.

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 NE Broad St., downtown Southern Pines, is now open until 10 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Call 692-3066 or visit www.thewinecellarandtastingroom.com.

Galleries

A Certain Patina, 127 B SW Broad St., Southern Pines, is an interior design and art gallery, and features works of local artist Jane Casnellie. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, or by appointment. For more info, call 603-2909.

Appalachian Physical Therapy displays artwork. Any local artist interested in having work displayed, call 215-0541.

Art at The Market Place -- features the works of four local artists. New works are exhibited every six weeks, and recently a "guest artist" has been featured. Visit the gallery on Tuesdays to "meet the artist" in person. Open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Located at 2160 Midland Rd. Info, call 315-6256.

Artist Alley, a collection of juried art and fine crafts from local and regional artists, is located at 167 E. New Hampshire Ave., Southern Pines. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. A First Friday opening is held each month. Info, call Jean Skipper at 692-6077.

Artists League of the Sandhills, is located at 129 Exchange Street in Historic Aberdeen. Exhibit hours are noon to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Call 944-3979 for info.

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 info.

Cafe Iano, is showing the art works of Lauren M. Bobo. The cafe is located at 280 NW Broad Street, Southern Pines. The paintings will be changed periodically, so stop often and enjoy.

The Campbell House Galleries, 482 East Connecticut Avenue in Southern Pines, presents "Through Women's Eyes," featuring artwork by Jane Casnellie, Diane Kraudelt, Irene McFarland, Paula Montgomery and Linda Dalton Pottery. This exhibit opens on Sept. 5 and runs through Sept. 26. The opening reception is Sept. 5, 6 to 8 p.m. 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 info, call 692-4356, or visit www.artscouncil-moore.org.

Fusions Art and Fine Craft Gallery, 53 Hillsboro Street, Pittsboro, is open Monday-Tuesday by chance, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. every first Sunday of the month. Call (919) 260-9725 for info.

Gap Creek Candle Company Store, 116 NW Broad St., Southern Pines, showcases the arts and crafts of the Sandhills. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. 695-0029.

Hastings Gallery is located in the Katharine L. Boyd Library, at Sandhills Community College, Pinehurst. "The Painter & the Potter: Works by Frank Pierce and Phil Woodhall" is on display through Oct. 30. Gallery hours are 7:45 a.m.- 9 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday; and 8:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free.

Hollyhocks Art Gallery, located at the shopsof Pinehurst Place, 905 Linden Road, Pinehurst, features original artwork by local artists Diane Kraudelt, Irene McFarland, Paula Montgomery, Bob Gera and artist/owner Jane Casnellie. Open daily at 10:30 a.m. and evenings (enter through Elliott's On Linden). For more info, call 255-0665, or visit online at www.janecasnellie.com.

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.

Joy Art Studio, works with American Girl, Creative Scrapbooking, Art of Collage, Create with Sculpty, Earth Art Beads and Bangles, building volcanoes and dinosaurs, dry felting, glass fusing, art and cultures and making art dolls. Joy of Art also offers ongoing art classes for ages 5-17 as well as Artist's Way, Discover Your Muse and Life Drawing for adults. Call Joy at 695-7055 for schedule and more information.

Plan B Furniture will feature the artwork of local artist Doug Rowe at its gallery, locatedat 105 E.South Street, downtown Aberdeen.More than 50 original pencil drawings and oil paintings will be on display. For more info, visit www.douglasrowegallery.com.

SKY Art Gallery, home of West 23rd Street Photography, is located at 602 Magnolia Drive in Aberdeen, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, or by appointment. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday or by appointment. For more information, call 944-9440 or visit www.skyartgallery.com.

SWANK Coffee Shop, 124 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines, supports local artists and crafters by offering local handmade items as well as serving locally-roasted gourmet coffee beans.

Vineland Fine Art Gallery, 290 SW Broad S.W. Broad St., Southern Pines, is currently displaying the works of new artists Yvonne Sovereign and Sylvia Parks. Normal gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.For more info, call 62-9994, or visit www.vinelandfineartgallery.com.

White Hill Gallery, 407 U.S. 15/501, Carthage, offers a variety of pottery. Info: Sandra Layne, proprietor, at 947-6100.

Workshops

Appalachian Physical Therapy at Olmsted Village presents a series of workshops titled "The Physical You," throughout the year. Refreshments will be served. Information, call 215-0541.

The Artists League of the Sandhills offers classes and workshops. Payment is required at time of registration. Call 944-3979 between 9 a.m. and noon, and 1 and 5 p.m. weekdays for the full slate of classes and workshops.

Learn to knit, from 10-11 a.m. Wednesdays, at the Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S. 15-501. Bring #9 or #10 needles and a skein of yarn. Instructions for beginners, guidance for experienced knitters. Call 215-0900 for more information.

The Sandhills Quilters Guild meets every third Tuesday of the month at 9:30 a.m. at the Senior Enrichment Center, Hwy. 15-501. The public is invited to attend.

Lectures

Author Kathleen Miller will give a free healing demonstration from noon to 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 25, at Restaurant 195, Southern Pines. For info, call 693-8010 or visit www.kathleenmiller.com.

Literary

Flynne's Coffee Bar, 115 NE Broad Street, Southern Pines, hosts story time for children of all ages every Monday at 3 p.m. Call 693-1999 for info.

The Country Bookshop, downtown Southern Pines, hosts book signing events throughout the year. Call 692-3211 for more info.

n Sandhills Writers

Sandhills Writers host a creative roundtable, including reading and critiques, every third Tuesday of the month from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Weymouth Center, and every first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Land Owners Office in Seven Lakes North. For info, call (910) 400-5060.

Library Programs

County Libraries

n Bookmobile: Services are scheduled throughout the county.

n Card Catalog: The card catalog for the county library is available online at www.srlslibraries.com.

n Dial-a-Story: The Robbins Library hosts a Dial-a-Story program. Stories are available from a machine by phone for young children. Dial 948-3322 for a new story every day.

n Given Memorial Library is located in downtown Pinehurst. 295-6022. The Given Book Shop at Olmsted Village is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. All proceeds go to the library/archives.

n The Katharine L. Boyd Library, at Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst, is open from 7:45 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday; and 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday. Call 695-3819 or go to www.sandhills.edu.

n The Moore County Library is located at 101 Saunders St. in Carthage. For information, call 947-5335. Preschool storytime is each Monday at 10:30 a.m.

n Page Library is located in Aberdeen at 101 N. Poplar and Main Streets. The branch is open Monday-Friday from 2 to 6 p.m. Call 944-1200 for info.

n The Pinebluff Library, located at 305 E. Baltimore and Currant, is open from 2 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday and on the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. For information, call 281-3004.

n The Southern Pines Public Library at 170 W. Connecticut Ave. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 to 5 p.m. Catalog and other information are available at www.sppl.net or call 692-8235.

n The Robbins Area Library, located at 161 E. Magnolia off Middleton, is open Tuesday to Saturday with evening hours on Tuesday. Call 948-4000 for information. Storytimes for preschoolers are held Thursdays at 9:30 a.m.

n The Vass Library, located on Seaboard Street near the Vass Post Office, is open Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; and Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Storytime is held at 10:30 a.m., every third Thursday of the month.

Nature

Visitors to the area can indulge their botanical interest while enjoying an enriching stroll through the 32-acre Sandhills Horticultural Gardens on the campus of Sandhills Community College, Pinehurst. Designed and maintained by students in the Landscape Gardening program, the site contains 14 themed gardens. Open from dawn to dusk all week, located at 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst.

The Sandhills Natural History Society meets the fourth Monday of each month at Weymouth Woods Auditorium. The society sponsors a wide variety of field trips focusing on birds, butterflies, wildflowers and other aspects of Sandhills nature. Call 692-2167 or visit www.sandhillsnature.org.

The Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines, announces its upcoming events for the month of August:

Bugs, 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31. Join in on games, bug hunts, crafts and other opportunities to learn about these fascinating creatures.

Recreation Classes

n Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department sponsors the following activities. Call 944-5902 for registration, information and fees.

For children:

Beginning Dance and Movement (ages 3-5), 5:15-6 p.m. Mondays, Aberdeen First Baptist Church. Aberdeen residents, $24, non-residents, $29. Fee includes six sessions.

Music, Movement & Rhythm, (ages 3-5) 4:15 to 5 p.m., Mondays at Aberdeen First Baptist Church. Children must be potty trained. Aberdeen residents, $18, non-residents, $23. Fee includes six sessions. Classes are on going.

For seniors:

Art Classes, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., Wednesdays, at Aberdeen First Baptist Church. Aberdeen residents, $2 per month, non-residents $5 per month. Classes are ongoing. Participants must supply own materials.

Chair Exercises, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Aberdeen First Baptist Church. Aberdeen residents $2 per month, non-residents, $5 per month.

n Elmcroft Assisted Living, located at 115 Brucewood Rd., offers Tai Chi. Classes are held every other Tuesday at 4 p.m. Info, contact Donna Traylor at 692-4928.

n Our Lady of the Americas is host tobingo every first and third Thursday of each month. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Early birdbingo begins at 7 p.m. and regular bingo games begin at 7:30 p.m. Ages 16 and older are welcome. For more information, call 974-3051.

n Pinehurst Parks and Recreation Department is offering classes for adults at the Pinehurst Village Hall.

n The Moore County Senior Enrichment Center offers table tennis on Mondays and Fridays from 3 to 5 p.m. Reservations are suggested. The center also offers Nintendo Wii and foosball for adults 50 and older. Call 215-0900 for more info.

Reunions

The Elise High School Class of 1958 (Robbins) will hold a reunion at the Inn at Eagle Springs, 1813 Samarcand Rd, Eagle Springs, at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11. For info, call Barbara at 336-625-5756.

The Pinecrest High Class of '78 will hold a 30-year reunion Friday and Saturday, Oct. 17-18 at the school. Cost is $55 per person, to be paid by Oct. 10 to PHS Class of '78 Reunion, Catherine Ross, PO Box 1155, Pinehurst, NC 28370. No payments can be accepted at the door. Dinner and dancing will be held Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Carolina Hotel. For more info or those having contact info for graduates of that year, call (910) 281-4164, or e-mail pinecresthigh78@yahoo.com. Those interested may also visit www.myspace.com/pinecresthigh78.

The Pinecrest High School Class of 1983 will hold its 25-year reunion Friday and Saturday, Oct. 17-18. Members should meet Friday, Oct. 17, at the football stadium for the homecoming game. At 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, members will meet at Table on the Green, Southern Pines, for dinner, dancing and karaoke. Cost is $35 per person. Deadline to register is Monday, Sept. 15. For more info, visit www.classmates.com. For registration info, call Kitty Hopkins Watkins at (910) 315-2171.

The Union Pines Class of 1968 is planning its 40th class reunion, to be held in September. If you or someone you know was a part of that graduating class, call Jerry Oldham at (919) 774-4149.

The Union Pines Class of 1988 will hold its 20-year reunion Saturday, Oct. 25, at Little River Golf and Resort, and Sunday, Oct. 26, at Hillcrest Park. For more info, call Beth Loving Elliott at (919) 663-1418.

The Union Pines Class of 1993 will hold its 15-year class reunion Friday and Saturday, Oct. 3-4. The homecoming game will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3.A reunion dinner party will be held at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at The JFR Barn. To register, visit www.upclassof93.zoomshare.com.For more info, call Walt Hammond at 336-255-7357.

A member of the Pinecrest High School Class of 1999 seeks others interested in helping organize a 10-year reunion. Contact Quannah Jackson-Brown at qajackson@hotmail. com or (336) 816-8814.

Tours

n Aberdeen Parks and Rec.

The Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department often sponsors trips. Info call 944-5902.

n ARTours

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

Violinist, Anne-Sophie Mutter and the Camerate Salzburg Orchestra, Sunday, Oct. 5, in Memorial Hall, at the Carolina Performing Arts Center, Chapel Hill.

El Greco to Velaquez: art during the reign of Phillip III, Tuesday, Oct. 14, at the Nasher Museum of Art, Duke University.

"L'Elisir d'Amore" (the Elixir of Love), about country peasant Nemorino who is in love with Adina (in Italian with English subtitles.) The opera will be performed Sunday, Nov. 9, at the War Memorial Auditorium, Greensboro.

"Chicago," Broadway's most popular musical, will be performed Tuesday, Dec. 2, at Memorial Auditorium, Raleigh.

Vietnam and Cambodia: This tour is designed to educate, entertain and enrich the traveler by helping make sense of this foreign land, rather than simply provide viewfinder glimpses of it. Feb. 11-27, 2009.

Kirk Tours offers a variety of tours, which