Community Interest

Abraham Lincoln's 200th Birthday Celebration

Wednesday, Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m., Owens Auditorium, Fred Morsell -- Presenting Mr. Frederick Douglass. Actor/educator Morsell will bring his "Presenting Mr. Frederick Douglass" performance sharing Douglass' life, message of justice and keys to success.

Thursday, Feb. 12, 7:30 p.m., Owens Auditorium, best-selling author, Jeff Shaara, who wrote "Gods and Generals" and "The Last Full Measure" will speak, answer questions and sign books.

Sunday, Feb. 22, 3 p.m., Owens Auditorium, The Fayetteville Symphony -- Aaron Copland's "A Lincoln Portrait" will highlight selected sections from Lincoln's letters and speeches and intersperse them with short biographical details throughout this musical portrait. Mitch Capel will narrate as the Fayetteville Symphonyepitomizes the American ideals of simplicity, democracy and individual responsibility.

Tuesday, Feb. 24, 11 a.m., Owens Auditorium, Kathryn Harris -- Historical Portrayal of Harriet Tubman. Harris, Library Services director at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, will present Harriet Tubman "in person." 7:30 p.m., Woods Reading Room of Boyd Library, Kathryn Harris Discussion. Harris will share her knowledge of "All Things Lincoln."

The O'Neal School 38th Annual Auction -- "Curtains to Net," Saturday, Feb. 7, The Fair Barn, Pinehurst. The evening event is a silent and live auction catered by Elliott's on Linden. A raffle for $10,000 will also take place. Proceeds from this fundraiser will be allocated to the O'Neal arts and athletics programs. For an invitation to the auction, raffle ticket or info, contact Lynn Melton at lmelton@onealschool.org or 692-6920, ext. 104.

Ms. North Carolina Senior America 2009 Pageant, will host a "getting to know you" meeting on Saturday, Feb. 7, 10 a.m., Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S.15/ 501, Pinehurst. This meeting is for potential candidates, sponsors and others interested in learning what Senior Americarepresents. For info, call Beverly A. Wetherbie, at 944-8171 or 603-5514, Judy Kelley at 328-3671 or visit www.senioramerica.org.

The Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities presents a three-part lecture series on Sunday afternoons at 3 p.m. Feb. 8, Dawson Carr presents "The History of the 150-Year-Old Hatteras Lighthouse -- One of North Carolina's Most Famous Symbols -- and the Story of Moving It From the Dangers of the Sea Itself." March 1, Kevin Duffus presents "How Shipwrecks Shaped the Destiny of North Carolina's Outer Banks and Created One of the Most Unique Cultures in America." Lectures are free and open to the public. For info, call 692-6261.

The Golf Capital Chorus is taking orders for its annual Singing Valentine Program. Order a serenade of love songs for your Valentine, along with a rose and a box of candy, by calling Dick Curl at 215-9796, or e-mailing dickcurl@nc.rr.com. The chorus has been surprising Valentines for many years, and all proceeds go to local charities. Quartets will be available on Feb. 13 and 14. The cost is $50. Book early, as time and vocalists are limited.

2009 Baby Miss Cumberland County, presented by Young Star Productions on Feb. 14, 10 a.m. Baby Miss, 5 months-23 months; Toddler Miss, 2-3 years and 5 months; Tiny Miss, 3 years and 6 months-4 years; Petite Miss, 5-6 years. 2009 N.C. Valentine Pageant on Feb. 14, 3 p.m. (call number below for divisions and age groups). Part of the proceeds go to the Leukemia-Lymphoma Society. Deadline to enter is Feb. 7. For info, call Patricia Frazee at (910) 488-2145.

The Pittsboro Merchants Association and Virlie's Grill will host the "Pittsboro Prance" featuring the bandBlues World Order on Saturday, Feb. 14, at 8 p.m. Go to pittsboroshops.com for ticket info, or call (919) 960-5892.

Vass Rescue Squad Auxiliary is hosting a Sweetheart Valentine Breakfast, Saturday, Feb. 14, 7:30-10:30 a.m. at 211 Main Street, Vass Rescue Squad Building.

Renowned hymn writer Dr. Mel Bingle, professor of Philosophy and Religion, Brevard College,and president of Hymn Society USA and Canada will give an entertaining presentation followed by a reception on Sunday, Feb. 15, 4 p.m.,Brownson Church, 330 S. May St., Southern Pines. Community is invited. For info, call 692-6252, or visit www.brownsonchurch.org. Bingle also will be at Brownson for Sunday services as part of the "Bill Jones Lecture Series." For info, call 949-9953.

Moore County Literacy Council presents the 5th Annual Spelling Bee for Literacy to be heldThursday, Feb. 26,7 p.m. in Owens Auditorium at Sandhills Community College. This lighthearted evening features three-member teams competing for the coveted Best Spellers trophy and additional awards for Most Team Spirit and Best Team Costumes. Call 692-5954 for info.

The Penick Village Foundation hosts its annual Art Show & Sale Preview Party on Friday, Feb. 27, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Be among the first to preview and purchase art before the show opens to the public in the North Building at Penick Village, 100 Rhode Island Extension, Southern Pines. Hors d'oeuvres and beverage pairings, music and a silent auction; valet parking is provided and admission is $45 per person. Art Show & Sale, Saturday, Feb. 28, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, March 1, noon-3 p.m. Open to the public. Admission is free. Light refreshments will be offered. For info, contact the Development Office at 692-0381, or visit www.penickvillagefoundation.org.

The Kiwanis Club of the Sandhills, as part of its fund-raising efforts to support children's activities in Moore County, is sponsoring a fourth annual Casino Night on Saturday, March 28, at the Fair Barn in Pinehurst. For a $50 donation, participants will receive a meal, drink tickets, and play money. From 6:30-9:30 p.m., attendees can play games in the casino. From 9:30- 10:30 p.m., there will be a live auction. There will also be a silent auction from 6:30-9 p.m. For info and tickets, call Charlie Carlton, 235-0271. Tickets may also be purchased at The Country Bookshop and Squire's Pub in Southern Pines. To reserve a space, purchase your tickets by March 21.

Sandhills Horticultural Society Spring Plant Sale, Saturday, April 18, 8 a.m.-noon. The Horticultural Society will have perennials, woody plants, azaleas, herbs and summer bulbs for sale at the horticultural complex (old Huette Hall area). For info, call 695-3882.

Attention all adults 55+! 26th Annual Senior Games in the Pines kicks off April 20-May 9. Individual sports, team sports, SilverArts and more! Registration forms will be ready to pick up at the end of February. For info, contact Rynet Oxendine at 692-7376.

Call for Art: The Fayetteville Art Guild in collaboration with Pope AFB, Fort Bragg, to include Wounded Warriors, are planning an art exhibition titled "United We Stand." The event opens April 24 at AIT 421 Maiden Lane, Fayetteville. Submissions accepted April 19, 20 and 21. For info and prospectus call (910) 868-9533, (910) 394-4192 or the Fayetteville/Cumberland County Arts Council at 323-1776, or visit www.theartscouncil.com.

Sandhills Community College Landscape Gardening Students Plant Sale, Friday, May 1, 1-4 p.m. and Saturday, May 2, 9 a.m.-noon at the horticultural complex (old Huette Hall area). Students will have annuals, vegetables and herbs for sale. Pre-orders are encouraged and will start in January. For info, call 695-3882.

Woof Woof Open, the kick-off fundraising effort to create a three-acre fenced-in dog park (located on N.C. 22 and Waynor Road near the airport) called "Pooch Park in the Pines" will be held Saturday, June 27, at Longleaf and Sunday, June 28, at The Pit. $75 per round or $125 for both days. Men, women and mixed teams play best two balls of four. Shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. both days. Entry forms are available at local pro shops or online at www.poochparkinthepines.com. Sponsorships starting at $75 available by contacting Woof Woof Open, P.O. Box 203, Southern Pines, N.C. 28388.

The Carolina Hotel offers high tea the second Friday of each month from 10 a.m.-noon. Cost is $25 per person. Call resort services desk at 235-8415.

The Southern Pines Welcome Center, located at the restored passenger train depot, is open noon-4 p.m., Thursday-Saturday. The center contains cultural items, photos and tourism information.

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 in Southern Pines. Gift shop offers books and photo prints of local interest. Free admission. Hours are 1-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday. For info, call 692-2051, or visit www.moorehistory.com.

Kids

Taylor Dance has ongoing registration for ballet, tap, jazz and hip hop for ages 3-18. Playhouse Jr. has ongoing registration for theater arts classes in preparation for performing "Lemonade" on Saturday, Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Call 295-1320 for info.

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.

The Moore County Library has storytime for preschoolers on Mondays at 10:30 a.m. For info, call 947-5335.

Southern Pines Public Library is located at 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Call 692-8235, or visit www.sppl.net for info.

The Vass Library, located on Seaboard Street, has storytime at 10:30 a.m. every third Thursday of the month.

Joy Art Studio offers ongoing art classes for ages 5-17. Call Joy at 695-7055 for schedule and info.

Carolina Performing Arts Center is holding classes. For info or registration, call 695-7898. Registration is being accepted for ages 3 and up.

Kindermusik, located at Southern Pines Untied Methodist Church, brings the joy of musical learning to children newborn through 3 years of age.Now inour seventh year,we continue to helpyoung familiesin the Sandhillsexplore, express and discover. Enrollment now being accepted for theSpring semester. Space available in the following classes.Village (newborns-18 months)Mondays, 3:30 p.m. Our Time (18 months-3 years) Mondays, 4:15 p.m.; Tuesdays 12:10 p.m. Contact Susan or Torin Wright at 639-0712, or www.susan. kindermusik.net.

Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department sponsors the following activities. Call 944-5902 for registration, information and fees. Beginning Dance and Move-ment (ages 3-5), 5:15-6 p.m., Mondays. Music, Movement and Rhythm (ages 3-5), 4:15-5 p.m., Mondays. Children must be toilet-trained. Valentine's Day Creations Mini Camp (ages 5-12), Friday, Feb. 6, 5:30-7 p.m. Movie Night, Horton Hears a Hoo, Friday, Feb. 13, 6-7:30 p.m. Spring Break 1/2 Day Camp (ages 6-13), April 13-16, 8 a.m.-noon. Registration deadline: March 20.

Dance

The Carolina Pines Ballroom Dancers will host a dance in Carthage Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. at 105 McReynolds Street on the second floor. Lesson is from 7-8 p.m. with general dancing from 8-10 p.m. Cost for nonmembers, $7 (singles and couples welcome). For info, call 692-5280.

Dance lesson company, Tuesdays, shag lessons with Bud and Nanci: 6:30 p.m. Level I, 7:30 p.m. Level II, 8:30 p.m. Level III. Wednesdays and Thursdays, line dance lessons with Bud and Nanci: 6:30-7:30 p.m. ($10 or four lessons for $30). Wednesdays and Thursdays, shag lessons with Bud and Nanci: 7:30 p.m. Level I, 8:30 Level II. Dance lessons held at 1832 N.C. 5. For info or to register, call 690-9176.

A Square Dance Club is an advanced level club. Dances are on the second and fourth Thursdays at 6 p.m. in the Old West End Gym. Dancers new to the area are welcome. The caller is Jimmy Roberson. For info, call Leo and Ruth Ellen Ganster, 295-5786.

Ballroom dance lessons (cued) waltz, foxtrot, swing, rhumba and cha-cha 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 dances at 7:30 p.m. on Mondays. For info, call 295-2590 or 673-1623.

Ballroom and Latin dancing at the Pinehurst Elementary Gym, 5 p.m. on Sundays. Call 215-5791, or e-mail gsc14@embarqmail.com for info.

Ballroom Dancers of the Sandhills dance on Fridays twice a month at the Old West End Gym in West End. The Friday dances begin with a dance lesson at 7:15 p.m., followed by Rhythm and Smooth dancing from 8-10 p.m. Dances for 2009: Feb. 6, 20, March 6, 20, April 10, 24. For info, contact Bryan and Margaret Cropley at 295-2730.

Carolina Performing Arts Center is holding classes. For info or registration, call 695-7898.

Fred Astaire Dance Studio holds Friday night ballroom dance parties from 8-9:30 p.m. For info, call 295-1106 or 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.

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. For info, call 295-3003, or visit 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 info, call Jo Ann at 295-8051 or 295-2590.

Stardust Dinner Dance Clubhas dinner and dancing almost 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.

Yellow Rockers Square Dance Club meets every Thursday from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at the Old West End Gym. For info, call Mary Lou at 944-7835 or Karen at 949-2001.

Music/Concerts

The Moore County Music Society presents the annual Young Musicians Concert, Sunday, Feb. 8, 3:30 p.m., at Bethesda Presbyterian Church in Aberdeen. This concert of the area's finest young musicians is free and open to the public. For info, call 692-7012.

Valentine's Day Concert, Saturday, Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m., Owens Auditorium, Sandhills Community College. The concert will feature the Sandhills Community College Jazz Band, directed by Tim Haley, and the Sandhills Community College Choir, directed by Frances Wilson. Along with a variety of love songs and big band standards, the choir will perform Civil War era songs as part of the Abraham Lincoln 200th Birthday Celebration that is taking place throughout the month of February at the college. Admission is free.

Weymouth Young Musicians Festival announced by the Music Committee for the Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities Center will be held Saturday and Sunday, March 21-22. Auditions will be held on Saturday, March 21, and the Finalists' Concert will be held Sunday,March 22, at 3 p.m. Both events take place in the Great Room at Weymouth Center. The Festival is open to students in grades 4-12 who are currently studying an instrument or voice. For info and/or festival guidelines, call Weymouth Center at 692-6061.

The Moore County Concert Band will perform on Sunday, March 8, 2 p.m. in the Carolina Hotel's Grand Ballroom. No charge for admission. The band is always looking for new members. Rehearsals are Monday evenings at 6:30 at the Sandhills Community College. The band performs six concerts a year and rehearses September through June. If you play or have ever played an instrument and would like to play some challenging music, consider joining the MCCB. For info, call 295-9023, or visit www.moorecountyband.com.

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

New Horizons Band in the Pines meets on Tuesdays from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the Moore County Senior Enrichment Center. Seniors who want to play in a band are welcome. $50 per nine-week session. For info, call 215-0900.

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 215-0346 for info.

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

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.

ENCORE! Theatre presents the "Adventures of Tom Sawyer," a musical adaptation of the successful Broadway play. The production will be staged at the Storytelling Arts Center in downtown Laurinburg on Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m., and Feb. 7 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets for adults are $10 and $8 for children and senior citizens. For info on the show or purchasing tickets, call 373-7176.

The Sandbox Players presents the comic spoof "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged)" by Adam Long, Jess Winfield and Daniel Singer. Performance dates are Feb. 6-15, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. at the Sunrise Theater in downtown Southern Pines. All seats general admission $15, student admission $10. Call 528-2134 for info.

Chatham Arts' 100-Mile Sustainable Cinema Series presents "Brushes with Life" by local filmmaker Philip Brubaker, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 7 p.m. Directed by first-time filmmaker Brubaker, the film explores his own battles with bipolar disorder while creating this film and examines the link between artists and mental illness. Adults, $5; students, $3. Buffet provided by Pittsboro General Store Cafe, $10, and cash bar. For info, call (919) 542-0394, or visit www .chathamarts.org.

Entertainment

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

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

Coach Light Trattoria, 290 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Live piano music. Lunch, noon-2:30 p.m., and dinner is served 5:30-10 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday. Call 692-4449 for reservations.

Darling House, 40 Chinquapin Rd., Pinehurst, hosts live entertainment Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 7:30-11:30 p.m. Call 295-3193.

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 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Dog Nation Grill hosts live music every Friday at 301 Poplar St., Aberdeen, and 207 S. McNeill St., Carthage. Sweet T will perform in Carthage on Friday, Feb. 6, 7-10 p.m.

Dugan's Pub, No. 2 Market Square, Pinehurst. Pub Quiz Night on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. with pizza from Vito's. Karaoke on Thursdays from 9 p.m.-1 a.m. The pub is non-smoking. Call 295-3400.

Elliott's Gourmet Marketplace, 905 Linden Rd., Pinehurst, provides workshops and wine seminars in the cooking school as well as a special series of lunches and dinners. Free wine tastings from noon-4 p.m. Saturdays. For info, call 295-3663.

Flynne's Coffee Bar, 115 N.E. Broad St., Southern Pines. Friday, Feb. 27, music a la mode with John Wayne and dessert offerings from Chef Warren. For info on events, call 693-1999.

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

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

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

Maness Pottery and Music Barn features bluegrass, country and gospel pickin' and singing at 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 7-10 p.m. The Parsons will perform Friday, Feb. 6. No cover. For reservations and info, call 692-4110.

The Moore Coffee Company, 201 S. McNeill St., Carthage, presents live music every Friday and Saturday night, 8-11 p.m. All musicians are welcome to bring their instruments and join in the fun of this musician sit-in. For info, call 947-6122. No charge.

Mr. P's, formerly Mint Juleps Club, 155 Hall Ave., Southern Pines. Eddie Barrett and the Goodman Legacy Orchestra will perform for dancers on Sunday, Feb. 8, 4-6:30 p.m. For info, call 603-7660.

Neville's is open 3 p.m.-2 a.m., Sunday-Saturday. For info, call 692-1939, or visit www.nevilles club.com.

O'Donnell's of downtown Southern Pines, hosts weekend live entertainment and features Wednesday night guest bartenders with tips going to charity. For info, call 695-1915, or visit www.pat odonnells-pub.com.

The Potter's Caf features live music every Saturday night. The caf is at 201 South St., Aberdeen. For info, call 944-1250.

Sandhills Bowling Center offers opportunities for bowling. 2239 N. Pinehurst St., Aberdeen. For info, call 295-9610.

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

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

The Wine Cellar and Tasting Room, 241 NE Broad St., Southern Pines, is open until 10 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday. Call 692-3066, or visit www.thewinecellarand tastingroom.com.

Galleries

About Art Gallery at the Market Place, located in the Market Place Restaurant Building, 2160 Midland Rd., Pinehurst, features local artists Joan Williams, Deane Billings, Jeanette Sheehan, Mike D'Andrea, Janet Burdick, Nancy Yanchus and Cele Bryant. Open Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. For info, call 215-5963.

Appalachian Physical Therapy in Olmsted Village is showcasing Beth Roy, winner of this fall's Campbell House oil painting division, through February. For info, call 215-0541.

Art & Furnishings features the work of three local artists, Fay Terry, Harry Neely and Betty DiBartolomeo, members of the prestigious "Oil Painters of America." Open Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Located at 20 Parker Lane, Pinehurst. For info, call 639-9404.

Art Studio of Fay Terry hosts visiting artists at work. New paintings are featured weekly. Located at 20 Parker Lane, Pinehurst. Open 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. For info, call 639-2577.

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. Open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday. A First Friday opening is held each month. For info, call Jean Skipper at 692-6077.

Artists League of the Sandhills is located at 129 Exchange St., Aberdeen. Exhibit hours are noon-3 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Classes and workshops are offered 9 a.m.-noon and 1-5 p.m. weekdays. For schedule or info, call 944-3979. Spend time with Chuck McLachlan, the featured Artist of the Month of February in the Exchange Street Gallery. A reception Sunday, Feb. 8, 3-5 p.m. is free and open to the public. McLachlan will be available from 12:30-2:30 p.m. prior to the reception for a critique session and demo. For a $20 tax-deductible donation to the Artists League, you can attend the demo and bring two paintings for McLachlan to review. Call or stop by the Artists League to sign up for the critique and demo.

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

Cafe Iano, located at 280 NW Broad St., Southern Pines, is showing the art works of Lauren M. Bobo. The paintings will be changed periodically.

The Campbell House Galleries, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines, presents "Impressionist Paintings," featuring works by Sara Gray. This exhibit opens on Feb. 6 and runs through Feb. 27. The gallery is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and every third Saturday of the month from 2-4 p.m. For info, call 692-4356, or visit www.artscouncil-moore.org.

Chatham Arts Gallery exhibits more than 90 Chatham County artists, Wednesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. First Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Call (919) 542-4144 for info, or visit www.chatham arts.org.

The Downtown Gallery, located in Flynne's Coffee Bar, 115 NE Broad St., Southern Pines, is currently displaying the work (fine art and pottery) of Frank Pierce, Chef Warren Lewis, Jodi Ohl, Michelle Goneau, Gail VandenBout, Jennifer Zmiewsky, Phil Woodhall, Stephen Robison and Kathleen Guss. Friday, Feb. 6, 6-8 p.m., artist reception featuring Joel Neuwirth's wood-block prints and Frank Pierce's new oils on canvas. Open every day. For info, call 693-1999.

Fusions Art and Fine Craft Gallery, 53 Hillsboro St., Pittsboro, is featuring glass works by Leslie Fesperman. The gallery is open Wednesday-Saturday at 11:30 a.m. and noon-4 p.m. every first Sunday of the month. Call 260-9725 for info.

Gemma Gallery, 48 Chinquapin Rd., Pinehurst, hosts a showing of new designs to celebrate their 15 years in business. For info, call 295-3010.

Hastings Gallery is located in the Katharine L. Boyd Library at Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Rd., Pinehurst. The Sandhills Photography Club will exhibit works from more than 25 members through Feb. 26. Gallery hours are 7:45 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 7:45 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday; and 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Saturday. Free.

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

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

Joy Art Studio works with Artist's Way, Discover Your Muse and Life Drawing for adults. Call Joy at 695-7055 for schedule and info.

Plan B Furniture, locatedat 105 E.South St., Aberdeen, is featuring the artwork of local artist Doug Rowe. More than 50 original pencil drawings and oil paintings will be on display. For info, visit www.douglasrowegallery.com.

Seagrove Candle Company Store, 116 NW Broad St., Southern Pines, showcases the arts and crafts of the Sandhills and Seagrove region, including King's Pottery, Crystal King's Pottery and Williams Pottery; pine-needle basketry from Moore County artisans; local original art and reproductions; photography and note cards from the Moore County Historical Association's archives; birdhouses; woodcrafts; and our very own scented candles in more than 50 fragrances. Open Monday and Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For info, call 695-0029.

SKY Art Gallery, located at 602 Magnolia Dr., Aberdeen. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. The gallery features some of Moore County's best local and nationally recognized artists, rare signed lithographs, watercolor, oils and fine art photography. It is also the home of John Gessner Photography, which offers commercial and fine art photography. For info, 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.

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

Literary

The Country Bookshop, Southern Pines, hosts Meet the Author series. Call 692-3211 for info. Thursday, Feb. 12, 4 p.m., Kelly Alexander, food writer and editor at Saveur magazine, "Hometown Appetites: The Story of Clementine Paddleford, the Forgotten Food Writer Who Chronicled How America Ate." Wednesday, Feb. 18, 4 p.m., Matt Lewis and Renato Poliafito, owners of the Red Hook Bakery in Brooklyn and Baked in Charleston, "Baked: New Frontiers in Baking." Thursday, Feb. 26, 4 p.m., Thomas Robischeaux, professor of history at Duke University, "The Last Witch of Langenburg: Murder in a German Village." Thursday, March 5, 4 p.m., Alan Shepard, "Scratch Beginnings: Me, $25, and the Search for the American Dream." Story Time with Spakle the Story Time Sheep (for toddlers and preschoolers), 10 a.m. on Feb. 19, March 5 and 19, April 2 and May 7 and 21.

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. For info, call Jessica at 315-2949.

Sandhills Writers hosts a creative roundtable, including reading and critiques, every third Tuesday of the month from 1-3 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 400-5060.

Library Programs

County Libraries

- Bookmobile: Services are scheduled throughout the county.

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

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

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

- The Moore County Library is located at 101 Saunders St., Carthage. For info, call 947-5335.

- Page Library, located in Aberdeen at 101 N. Poplar and Main streets, is open Monday-Friday from 2-6 p.m. Call 944-1200 for info.

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

- The Southern Pines Public Library at 170 W. Connecticut Ave. is open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sunday, 2-5 p.m. AARP Tax Help available at the Library on Tuesdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., February through April (except April 12). Clients must register onsite. Oldies & Goodies film series presents "The Heiress," starring Olivia de Havilland and Montgomery Clift on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Bring your valentine and enjoy a cup of tea! Explorations: A Forum for Adults presents Rose Highland-Sharpe on Sunday, Feb. 15, 3 p.m. The program, "Africa to America: The Roots of the Music We Have Today," features music, dance and storytelling in celebration of Black History Month. Pizza with Pizzazz, Tuesday, Feb.17, 5-6 p.m., participants will "Brighten Their Day with RAK!" RAK stands for "Random Acts of Kindness," and students in grades 6-8 are invited to make cards and gifts to hand out as part of this national event. Children in grades K-2 and their parents are invited to Family Fun Night on Thursday, Feb. 19, at 5:30 p.m. Come enjoy stories, songs and crafts about "Things That Go," and then stick around for a macaroni and cheese dinner. Be sure to "race" into the library for this special program. Read to Your Bunny, Wednesday, Feb. 11 and 25, story sessions for toddlers (15-36 months) 10:30-10:50 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, story sessions for infants (birth-14 months) 3:30-4:00 p.m. The first "Bring Your Own Book" discussion is Thursday, Feb. 26, 5:30 p.m. Bring any fiction book you've been reading to share with the group: classics, mysteries, current fiction -- all genres are welcome! Bring your book and a friend, too. Free and open to the public. Refreshments served. Catalog and other library info are available at www.sppl.net, or call 692-8235.

- The Robbins Area Library, located at 161 E. Magnolia off Middleton, is open Tuesday-Saturday with evening hours on Tuesday. Call 948-4000 for info.

- The Vass Library, located on Seaboard Street, is open Tuesday, 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; and Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Storytime is held at 10:30 a.m. every thi