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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
COMMUNITY WELCOME
Thanksgiving Services Planned Bible Tabernacle
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Day Tradition Continues BY MARILYN POWERS Special to The Pilot
On Thanksgiving Day, the Sunrise Theater in Southern Pines continues its annual tradition with a free showing of the concert film “The Last Waltz.” Widely acclaimed as the best of all rock-concert documentaries, the film will begin at 7:30 p.m. Directed by Martin Scorsese, “The Last Waltz” is a chronicle of one important group in rock music of the late 1960s and 1970s and a commentary on those times. The film is rated PG and runs 120 minutes. The Sunrise Theater is at 250 SW Broad St. in Southern Pines. For more information, call (910) 6923611 or visit www.sunrisetheater.com.
The Bible Tabernacle will be hosting the annual Midnight Cry Ministries Thanksgiving meeting beginning Wednesday, Nov. 25. Services will be held each night at 7 p.m. through Saturday, Nov. 28. The Bible Tabernacle is located on the N.C. 22 exit from the Airport Road roundabout toward Carthage, approximately one mile on the left. Call (800) 273-2020 for further information.
Thanksgiving Service Pinebluff United Methodist Church is hosting a Thanksgiving service for the community Wednesday, Nov. 25, at 7 p.m. at 275 Philadelphia Ave., Pinebluff. For information, call (910) 281-3468.
Village Chapel The Village Chapel of Pinehurst will hold its annual Thanksgiving worship service on Wednesday, Nov. 25 at 5 p.m. “Everyone in the community, together with visiting family and friends, is invited to participate,” says a spokesman. “This special event will focus on praise and gratitude for our many bountiful gifts, especially our
faith, family and country.” A nonperishable food donation for the Interfaith Food Pantry in Aberdeen is requested in lieu of other offerings. This community-wide food bank provides thousands of meals each month to the less fortunate. Canned goods, peanut butter and baby care items are always in short supply. Contact The Village Chapel at (910) 215-9835 for more information.
Thanksgiving Service The community is invited to attend a Thanksgiving Day service at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 26, at the Christian Science Church, 240 E. New Hampshire Ave., Southern Pines. The Thanksgiving Day service includes the Thanksgiving Day proclamation of the president of the United States, the Thanksgiving Bible lesson and time set aside during the one-hour service for individuals to express gratitude for blessings experienced this year. No collection will be taken; however, food items for the Coalition will be welcome. Child care will be provided. For more information on the Thanksgiving Day service, call (910) 692-7759.
About This Issue Cover Design Kathryn Galloway, Graphic Designer Supplement Design/Layout Martha J. Henderson, Design Editor Contributing Writers Hannah Sharpe, Marilyn Powers Martha J. Henderson Contributing Photographer Erick Duplessis, Glenn M. Sides Steve Bouser For advertising information, contact Pat Taylor at (910) 693-2505 or e-mail advertise@thepilot.com
The Pilot 145 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines, NC 28387 (910) 692-7271 • thepilot.com
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
Communities Plan Tree Lightings Southern Pines Mayor Mike Haney will light the town’s holly tree at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29. This annual event will be held at the Train Depot. The Emmanuel Episcopal Church choir, the Golf Capital Chorus and the Trinity A.M.E. Zion Church choir will perform during the festivities.
CONTRIBUTED
BIG TREE — This 19-foot blue spruce, from Mistletoe Meadows Tree Farm in Laurel Springs, will be placed in the Pinehurst village center at Thanksgiving, marking the start of the 2009 holiday season. The tree lighting is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 4. Selecting the tree are Bart O’Connor, a member of the Pinehurst Beautification Committee, and his wife, Martha, with Mistletoe Meadows owner Joe Freeman. Freeman was given the honor of supplying the Christmas tree for the 2008 White House celebration.
The village of Pinehurst will host its annual Christmas tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, on the village square. Entertainment for the festive event will include the Golf Capital Chorus, Sandhills Teen Challenge and the Sotto Vocce girls’ singing group from Pinecrest High School. Santa Claus will arrive at 6:30 p.m. to light the tree. Children may visit with Santa in the garden room at BB&T until 7:30 p.m. Parents are invited to bring their cameras to capture the moment.
The Town of Aberdeen will kick off the holiday season Tuesday,
Dec. 1, with its annual treelighting ceremony at Union Station Depot. The Aberdeen First Baptist handbell choir will perform, while hot chocolate, coffee, cookies and other refreshments will be served. Santa will make an appearance at the ceremony, thanks to the Aberdeen Fire Department.
The Whispering Pines annual Christmas tree lighting begins at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6. Santa Claus will be present, and there also will be caroling, hot chocolate and cookies.
The Moore County Christmas tree lighting will be held at the old historic courthouse in downtown Carthage at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1.
The Foxfire Village Christmas tree lighting will be held Sunday, Dec. 6. This holiday event will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Village Hall.
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Tree Lightings
FirstHealth Plans Annual Tree Lighting The 18th Annual Light Up a Life tree-lighting ceremony will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, at FirstHealth Hospice and Palliative Care on the corner of Aviemore Drive and Memorial Drive, Pinehurst. The Light Up a Life program provides the opportunity to share remembrances of family and friends and to honor those who are important in our lives. For more information, contact the FirstHealth Hospice Foundation at (910) 695-7500.
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
Resort Shines During Season
Pinehurst Resort
lighting and visits with Santa Claus. Free and open to the public. Historic village of Pinehurst, 5:30 p.m.
Dec. 5 — Annie Oakley Boom Days Shooting Exhibition, featuring Tom Knapp and members of the U.S. Olympic Shooting Team, 3 p.m., Pinehurst No. 8, free.
Concerts, Tours Highlight Activities
Dec. 4, 11, 18 — Historic walking tour and traditional high tea every Friday in December, 10 a.m., open to the public, $25 per person. Reservations required. Call (910) 2358415.
From glittering Christmas trees to concerts, the world-renowned Pinehurst Resort is ready for the holidays, offering a series of activities throughout the holiday season to both guests and the community. Nov. 25 — Holiday Pops Concert with the North Carolina Symphony in the Carolina Hotel’s grand ballroom, 8 p.m. Tickets are $32 for adults and $8 for kids 18 and under. For tickets and information, call (910) 235-8415. Nov. 28-29 — “Here’s to the Good Life” Cabaret in the Carolina Hotel’s Cardinal Ballroom, 8 p.m. for evening shows and 2
PHOTOS BY ERICK DUPLESSIS/The Pilot
The lobby of the Carolina Hotel is beautifully decorated for the holidays. p.m. for the Saturday matinee. Call (910) 235-8415 for tickets and information. $30 adults and $10 children under 16 (Saturday matinee only).
Through December — Pinehurst’s tour of trees, featuring 25 themed Christmas trees located throughout the Carolina Hotel. Free self-guided tour. Also, the annual Gingerbread Village Display by
Given Memorial Celebrates The Given Memorial Library will be hosting Christmas festivities at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, during its regular Gathering at Given. The event is free and open to the public. Popular local performer Glenn Davis will be singing Christmas carols. “Join us for a time of
singing, festive fellowship, eating cookings and drinking wassail,” says a spokesperson. “It’s a good event for kicking off the Christmas season.” The Given Memorial Library is at 150 Cherokee Road in Pinehurst.
Santa to Visit Libraries Santa Claus is coming to the Moore County library system. The jolly fat man will be making his usual rounds of the Moore County library system this year beginning Tuesday, Dec. 1, in Carthage from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. He will then fly his sleigh over to the Robbins Area Library on Tuesday, Dec. 8, from 6 to 8 p.m., before
finishing up at the Vass Area Library on Thursday, Dec. 10, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Gift bags will be available for all of the children who visit with Santa, and refreshments will be available for everyone to enjoy.
Pinehurst pastry chefs, located in the lobby of the Carolina Hotel.
Dec. 4 — Village of Pinehurst annual tree
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26 — Live holiday music during afternoon tea in the Carolina Hotel lobby every Saturday in December at 4 p.m. Music is free and open to the public; tea for a nominal charge. No reservations required. Dec. 5: Sandhills Children’s Center Handbell Choir Dec. 12: First Baptist Church Choir Dec. 19: Moore County Choral Society Dec. 26: Pianist Daniel Fry Dec. 31 — New Year’s Eve Party featuring the Band of Oz. Overnight packages start at $230 per person for party, breakfast and dinner. Call (910) 235-8415 for ticket information.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
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Contests
Parade of Trees Contest Continues to Grow BY HANNAH SHARPE Newsroom Intern
The Southern Pines Business Association is happy to once again deck the streets of downtown Southern Pines with its “Parade of Trees.” Greg Zywocinski, president of the SPBA, has watched the event grow with community participation each year. When the SPBA first began the tradition four years ago, the event included 31 trees. This year, 62 trees will line the streets of downtown, adding an air of holiday spirit and community creativity to the sidewalks. Zywocinski described this year’s
generous sponsorship of the trees as “an ambitious undertaking in recessionary times.” Sponsors, including individuals, shop owners, businesses and other organizations, decorated the trees on the sidewalks Monday, Nov. 23. Judges will evaluate each tree and award prizes for first, second and third places, as well as four honorable mentions, to decorators. The trees will be on display until Jan. 1.
Hannah Sharpe can be reached at (910) 693-2485.
Contest Aims to Light Up Pinehurst Residents and merchants of Pinehurst are being asked to help light up the historic village this Christmas season by participating in the second annual Christmas decorating contest. “We are asking everyone to pull out all the stops once again and make the village brighter than ever,” says a spokesperson. “We hope that you will use your creativity and make your display unique … and bright. Help us light up the village of Pinehurst this Christmas.” Organizers of the decorating contest say the theme this year is “It’s a
Wonderful Christmas in Pinehurst.” There will be multiple prizes awarded this year in both residential and business categories. Judging will take place after dark Thursday, Dec. 3. Winners will be announced and prizes awarded during the annual Christmas tree lighting, Friday, Dec. 4, beginning at 5:30 p.m. For more information, contact committee members Sherry Mortenson at (910) 215-0505 or Diane Halleen at (910) 2155881.
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A Hometown Holiday Tradition Tuesday, December 1st – 6:30 pm Tree lighting at the Depot on Main Street in Downtown Historic Aberdeen. Carols performed by First Baptist Church hand bell choir. Refreshments, tree lighting and arrival of Santa Claus via a firetruck
Friday, December 4th Supper with Santa Claus – 6-7:30 pm Aberdeen Recreation Station Participants can enjoy a catered Spaghetti dinner, the reading of "Twas the Night before Christmas", making a special holiday craft and a visit from Santa Claus. Pre-purchased tickets required.
Saturday, December 12th Christmas Parade – 3:00pm Historic Downtown Aberdeen Parade will include floats, celebrities, politicians, beauty queens, youth groups, bands, horses, clowns, antique cars and much more
For additional information contact Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department
910-944-PARK ( 7275) or visit the website www.townofaberdeen.net
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
Area Churches to Host Holiday Services Cypress Presbyterian Cypress Presbyterian Church is planning events for the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. In November and December, members will collect women’s socks for the Sandhills Coalition. Another item needed by the Coalition is blankets. Those having new or gently-used blankets can drop them off at the Vass Library, which has agreed to accept these items. The church will deliver them to the Coalition. The Rev. Bruce Lax will preach at the 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. worship services Sunday, Nov. 29. The “Hanging of the Greens” will be held at 7 p.m. “Come join us that evening for songs and readings as we decorate our sanctuary for the Advent and Christmas season,” says a spokesman. “Our joy gift offering will be received at this service.” A special soup and sandwich lunch to honor our senior members will be held Sunday, Dec. 13. Santa Claus will be there for the youngest members of the church family. Pictures with Santa will be taken. “Everyone in the community is invited to attend our events,” says the spokesman. Call (910) 245-7024 for more information.
The church is located at 1220 Cypress Church Road, seven miles east of Vass.
On Sunday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.m., Pinebluff United Methodist Church will be having its annual Christmas program. There will be refreshments afterward and also a visit from a special man in a red suit. The musical program and pageant, “Glory to God in the Highest,” created by Luke Gambill, will be performed by the children along with the adult choir. “Anyone interested, young or old, is invited to participate,” says a spokesman. “We need performers of all ages.” Practices will be held each Wednesday from 4 to 5 p.m. For information, call (910) 281-3854 or (910) 603-7048 and leave a message.
Historic Shiloh Church is decorated with all natural evergreens and simple, homemade ornaments adorn the live 14foot Christmas tree. “The plain sanctuary is lit only by the flicker of candles, as it was 100 years ago, when our ancestors gathered here to worship,” says the spokesman. The annual candlelit service includes music (cello, flute, harp, oboe, violin), which varies each year, performed by the world-renowned Trinity Music School, oldfashioned communion using North Carolina pottery, the reading of the Christmas story and fellowship with friends, old and new. Refreshments, hot Shiloh spiced tea and delicious sugar cookies are served by the ladies of Shiloh during each service. The church is located on Shiloh Woods Drive, Troy. For directions, visit www.shilohchurchtroy.com.
Shiloh Christmas Tea
The Village Chapel
The annual Shiloh Christmas tea will be held Saturday, Dec. 5, from 3 to 4 p.m., 5 to 6 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m. “Each year, we are welcomed to the church by the beautiful Scottish sounds of a traditional bagpiper,” says a spokesman. “The large pine doors, one for the gentlemen and one for the ladies, open to a vision of yesteryear.”
On Thursday, Dec. 24, The Village Chapel of Pinehurst will hold its annual Christmas Eve services. The 5 p.m. service will feature lessons, carols and a live nativity, while the 9 p.m. service will be a candlelight communion. On Friday, Dec. 25, The Village Chapel will hold a 10 a.m. Christmas morning service.
Sunday, Dec. 6. Elizabeth Williams, Kay Patterson and Rosemary Paschal will perform various selections on the organ and piano.
Sacred Heart Offers Series Of Musical Events for Advent Pinebluff UMC “The Sound Of Advent Music,” a series of half-hour concerts, will be performed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Pinehurst, on Sundays in Advent. The following concerts will begin at 4 p.m. in the main worship area of the church: Nov. 29, Donald Snelgrove, organist, and Carolyn Hatcher, flutist; Dec. 6, Margo Rhodes, soprano, and Dorothy McDonald, pianist; Dec. 13, Suzanne Wolonick, organist and cellist, and Jason Wolonick, trumpeter; and Dec. 20, Imelda Dunbar, organist and pianist, and Christopher Pharo, soloist. Sacred Heart Church is located at 300 Dundee Road, Pinehurst. All concerts are free and open to the public.
Church Services
Christmas Recital First Presbyterian Church in Carthage will host a Christmas recital at 5 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
Marching Bands, Santa Claus Highlight Of Southern Pines Christmas Parade BY HANNAH SHARPE
deputy superintendent of Moore County Schools, as this year’s grand marshall. Zywocinski is happy to see Upchurch fillThe Southern Pines Business Association ing the role this year. Upchurch was influanticipates large crowds and hopes to ential in bringing all of Moore County’s spread holiday cheer at the annual marching Christmas parade scheduled for Saturday, bands Dec. 5. in downtown Southern Pines. together to Greg Zywocinski, president of the participate Southern Pines Business Association, is in the parade excited to see people demonstrate holiday every year. spirit through participation. “He’s gone “A big part of the parade is allowing peoout of his ple to participate in the parade,” he says. way to help At 11:30 a.m., Congressman Howard us [in the Coble and Southern past],” Pines Mayor Mike Zywocinski Haney will lead the says. parade through downMarching town, welcoming visibands from the University tors to the festivities. of North Carolina The parade has a Pembroke, Pinecrest new route this year, High School, Union Pines starting for the first High School, North time at Downtown Park t lo /The Pi M. SIDES Moore High School and on North West Broad GLENN BY S TO PHO Southern Middle School will carry Street, crossing the railthe parade with musical holiday favorites. road tracks at Vermont The parade will also feature floats sponAvenue, heading down South East Broad sored by local organizations, Smokey the Street and finishing at Massachusetts Bear, a chorus of Dickens characters from Avenue. Sandhills Assembly of God, local beauty In tow will be Dr. Larry Upchurch, Newsroom Intern
queens, the Chick-fil-A cow, rescue squad vehicles, McGruff the Crime Dog, the Moore County Shriners and Siberian huskies mushing as reindeer, among several participants. Though the sights and sounds of the parade will get everyone excited about the holiday season, all eyes will be searching for the parade’s holiday heavyweight — Santa Claus, who will bring up the rear of the parade again this year. Anyone interested in meeting Santa for a photo or a wish list consultation should stick around after the parade. Santa and Zywocinski will walk around downtown, visiting local shops and restaurants. “To me that’s one of the highlights — seeing people’s reactions,” Zywocinski says. Zywocinski adds that the parade draws visitors from all over to take part in the festivities, including members of his own family from Washington, D.C. “They were very surprised,” Zywocinski says, remembering the first time his family came to the parade. “Now they look forward to coming every year. It’s a time when we can get together.” Despite the recession, the support generated by the town has constantly amazed Zywocinski in the months leading up to the parade.
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Parades
“These are tough times to get people to do things that cost them money,” Zywocinski says. “But there are a lot of big things happening in this little town, and it’s because of the volunteers.” On the flipside, the parade offers the community a free holiday activity and a break from the bustle of the season’s shopping. Zywocinski believes that community events, like the parade, bring residents together under a shared appreciation of small-town charm. “We’re very fortunate to be living here,” Zywocinski says. For more information about the parade or other holiday events in Southern Pines, contact Greg Zywocinski at (910) 692-6968.
Hannah Sharpe can be reached at (910) 693-2485.
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
Parade Celebrates Christmas in Aberdeen Parades
Southern Pines Carriage Parade Saturday, Dec. 12 The horse community of Southern Pines welcomes everyone to the annual Carriage Parade in downtown Southern Pines Saturday, Dec. 12, at 1 p.m. Carriages, horses and people dressed in their riding gear will ride around downtown celebrating the area’s heritage for the holidays.
BY HANNAH SHARPE Newsroom Intern
The town of Aberdeen hopes residents will take some time away from holiday preparations to come downtown and enjoy its annual Christmas parade at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. Parks and Recreation Director Leigh Baggs hopes to get the community involved in the parade to celebrate Christmas in Aberdeen. “We try to let anybody and everybody who wants to get involved participate,” Baggs says. Baggs says the best spots to view the parade are along Main and Sycamore streets by the Union Station Depot, where Town Manager Bill Zell will be emceeing the parade over a backdrop of holiday music. Participants will line up at Pine Street and weave through downtown. The parade will include holiday floats, Boy Scout troops, local beauty queens, the Pinecrest High School marching band, clowns, town officials, the Moore County Shriners, horses, the Sandhills Classic Street Rods, rescue squad vehicles, local sponsors and youth athletic programs. The Parks and Recreation Department still needs entries and float sponsors. Float sponsorships cost $250. Sponsors can ride on the float with friends and family if they want, but Baggs said sponsors are not required to
be in the parade. If a sponsor does not want to participate, the Parks and Recreation department will allow a team from its youth athletics program to ride on the float. The Parks and Recreation Department asks that parade participants refrain from throwing candy to the crowd as a safety precaution. For more information about participating in the parade or attendance, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (910) 944PARK. Come out and enjoy the celebration! GLENN M. SIDES/The Pilot
Hannah Sharpe can be reached at (910) 693-2485.
Santa Claus chose to ride a horse during last year’s Aberdeen Christmas parade.
CHRISTMAS ON PARADE The “world famous” Carthage Christmas parade will be held at 6:15 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, immediately after the Moore County Christmas tree lighting at the old historic courthouse in downtown Carthage. The tree lighting begins at 6 p.m. To register for the parade or for additional information, call (910) 9472331 or e-mail kpohara@nc.rr.com.
The Robbins Christmas Parade takes place on Thursday, Dec. 3. Line-up begins at 5 p.m. and the parade starts at 6 p.m. To register for the parade, pick up an application at Robbins City Hall. The Robbins Christmas Parade is organized by the Robbins Rescue Squad.
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D.J. Cornell presents A Selection of Fine Jewelry
Chains - Bracelets
G O L D - DI A M O N D S
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
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Whispering Pines Homes Tour Showcases Spirit of Christmas
Home Tours
Christmas spirit is in full swing in Whispering Pines. On Sunday, Dec. 6, from noon to 4 p.m., five homeowners are opening their homes to share their Christmas decorations and memories. Impressive architecture with eclectic and elegant décor will provide the backdrop for Christmas memorabilia. Everything from traditional trees with international ornaments to a Coca-Cola village to family heirlooms will be on display in the tour homes.
Days of Christmas. A real treat awaits at the Tile home in Warrior Woods. “A Coca-Cola Christmas” is the theme throughout their home. There are hundreds of buildings, town figurines and intricate Coca-Cola artifacts displayed on a winter canvas of white snow in the main foyer. The Coca-Cola Christmas Village was begun in 1997, and grew out of Michael’s collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia, which he had been acquiring since 1975. The collection is displayed on Featured Homes walls and shelves in an area of the The featured homes are those of Pam CONTRIBUTED downstairs known as “Coca-Cola Avenue.” and George Venet, 12 Wisteria Way; Arlene The home of Raymond and Jane Thompson is on the Christmas tour of homes. The Gentry home is a typical ’70s Jenkins, 37 Shadow Drive; Raymond and traditional ranch, which has been Jane Thompson, 11 Cardinal Drive; ceramic village survives and will be visitors. Each bedroom is located next to a thoroughly modernized to a fresh, bright Michael and Sally Tile, 136 Waccamaw modern home on the inside. In addition to bath, and they circle the living room. Road in Warrior Woods; and Lou and Gene particularly poignant this year as Pam’s upgrades of wood flooring, a modern mother died in June. The Christmas tree in the family room, Gentry, 17 Shadow Drive. They have many decorations from their its decorations and the artificial snow were kitchen and earth tone colors, there is a Newcomers to Whispering Pines, the European glass shower door in the guest travels, as well as from family and friends. bought in Gatlinburg, Tenn. Arlene’s Venets built their home to take advantage bath. Visitors will be intrigued by trompe Pam treasures decorations that were given Christmas village was purchased in of the view of the fairway of the seventh l’oeil paintings by a local artist in a wet bar to her by her students in Maryland and Germany. hole on the East Course. The home cabinet and in one of the bathrooms. When Germany. A green metal tree sits on her dock and features a large lighted rotunda, several their sons where in school, the Gentrys Arlene Jenkins describes her home adds to the festive spirit of the village’s personalized rooms, including a cozy, spent Christmases in foreign countries. A décor as “eclectic,” featuring a pleasant lakes. There is a lighted path to the water, wood-paneled library and a large family grouping of various items from her and spotlights on the water fountain add to collection of Christmas trees was acquired room with a panoramic view of the golf during these vacations. Special highlights the Christmas atmosphere. course. They specifically requested of the collection are the wax ball The focal point of the Thompsons’ that their builder make sure that no 16-year-old traditional home is definite- ornaments purchased more than 40 years more than three steps were required ago for their first Christmas and a ly the entrance. The Mark Parsonfrom any entry to the house. Victorian kissing ball that has been made designed landscaping is accented by Their Christmas memories include from family keepsakes. Several of the the brickwork incorporated into the times spent in Pennsylvania, unique decorations have been purchased in design of the front lawn. The home Germany, Maryland, Florida and various parts of the world. features a number of windows, a Ohio. They are looking forward to recently updated kitchen and a large adding North Carolina memories. deck at the back of the house with a Brunch Served “One special Christmas, my mother fantastic golf-front view. A Heritage made a ceramic Christmas village for In addition to the homes tour, an optional CONTRIBUTED Christmas Village is a highlight at the our daughter, Kristen,” says Pam brunch will be served at the Country Club George and Pam Venet built their Whispering Thompson home during the holidays. Venet. of Whispering Pines. Available from 11 Pines home to take advantage of the view of the A bookcase in the living room displays a.m. to 1 p.m., the brunch will feature egg They also remember their first fairway of the seventh hole on the East Course. a collection of Lenox white and gold Christmas away from home, spent in stratta with asparagus, ham and music boxes and collectibles. A small Weisbaden, Germany, when they had hollandaise, fresh fruit salad and a deli grandmother’s antiques to hand-painted tree in the kitchen is decorated with “a little Christmas tree.” board, including turkey breast, tuna salad, lamps. An original by Dutch painter Peter miniature hand-painted wooden ornaments cheeses, relishes and condiments, along They’ve come a long way since those Lely highlights one wall. Her home has brought from East Germany. A tree in the days, and their collection of Christmas numerous interesting spots to captivate master bedroom celebrates the Twelve see TOUR, page 11 decorations has grown considerably. The
Santa Claus Is Coming!
To The Habitat Moore Store 2268 Hwy. #5, Aberdeen, NC
Saturday December 5, 12 & 19 10:00 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Photos With Santa Available For Small Donation
1/2 Price Sale on ALL Christmas Items
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
EDS Annual Candlelight Tour Features Five Homes The Episcopal Day School of Southern Pines will hold its 32nd annual Candlelight Tour of Homes on Sunday, Dec. 6, from 1 to 6 p.m. This year’s tour features five homes from across the Pinehurst and Southern Pines area, each uniquely decorated for the holidays. Talented local musicians and singers will be providing entertainment throughout the tour.
Featured Homes The Pinewild home of Susan and Richard Lapato is an expression of their collective talents and love of entertaining. Equipped with a combined training in engineering and Susan’s experience in design and interior decorating, the couple designed a home that would meet all their needs. This new construction has a contemporary, open style and is filled with architectural and design details specified by Susan. A special feature during the tour will be two 12-foot, black trees decorated for the holidays. The first is decorated exclusively with crystal ornaments by famous makers such as Swarovski, Waterford and Baccarat. The second tree will be adorned
with the entire collection of First Ladies’ ornaments. Perched on an elevated and private lot in the Country Club of North Carolina is the graceful home of Joe and Sue Kelly. The couple bought their home three years ago after falling in love with its traditional, one-story design that offers views from each room. The home’s spaciousness suits them and and their large family perfectly. The Kellys love to dress up their home for the Christmas season. They have a large collection of decorations that they’ve accumulated during their 53 years of marriage. Visitors on the Candlelight Tour will be filled with holiday cheer as they pass through festive rooms. Tour visitors are in for a treat this year at the home of Jim Schmalenberger and Bob Lowery in the village of Pinehurst. Their white brick home, called “The Carriage House,” was built in 1998, and was recently remodeled in order to create more livable space. Schmalenberger has an extensive background in visual merchandising and displays for well-known national corporations. He combined his interior design and decorating skills with his background in
Home Tours
CONTRIBUTED
Part of the Episcopal Day School’s annual candlelight tour, the home of Joe and Sue Kelly will be dressed up festively for the Christmas season. antiques and master carpentry to transform The Carriage House into a historically inspired and exquisite home. An eclectic mix of French, American and English antiques as well as Asian pieces abound. Schmalenberger used decoupage to transform a grand piano that sits in the corner. For Christmas, he creates a unique and unexpected holiday decoration and
promises one will find that “surprises abound” around the piano. The National Golf Club home of Grady and Debi Little is on the 2009 tour. Their home has an expansive view of National’s 11th fairway. Built in 2006 by Norm Sullivan, the all-
see CANDLELIGHT, page 11
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
Carthage Hosts Tour of Homes BY MARTHA J. HENDERSON Design Editor
Four Carthage homes, an inn and the Carthage Museum will be on display Sunday, Dec. 6, during the annual Christmas Tour of Homes. Sponsored by the Carthage Historic Committee, the tour of homes will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. This year’s tour features the former Sinclair House and the Morris home on McReynolds Street, as well as The Buggy Inn, also on McReynolds Street. The Rebecca Saunders home on Saunders Street and Hurley Thompson’s law office on Monroe Street are also on the tour. According to committee member Bert Patrick, the home where the Thompson law office is located is a sister house to the Sinclair house. “It was built by Mr. Tyson of the Tyson and Jones Buggy Factory for his children,” says Patrick. The Carthage Museum, which houses the unique history of Carthage, will also be open and on display during the tour. Members of the Hospitality Club of Sandhills Community College will be at the museum, offering pastries and other goodies for purchase as a fundraiser for the club. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased prior to the tour at the Carthage Museum, Granny’s Antiques and RBC Centura Bank. On the day of tour, tickets will be available at the museum as well as at each of the homes on the tour.
Candlelight From Page 10 brick home has four bedrooms and four-and-one-half baths. The Little home has a casual contemporary style, paired with formal and informal spaces. The Littles love Christmas and go all-out in decorating. “Our house is a fun house for kids and is decorated whimsically for all to enjoy,” says Debi Little. There will be a Christmas tree trimmed in greens, browns and gold, accentuated with fun items from the Wild Hare. A motorcycle tree will be in Grady’s sports room, as well as a working train set that Grady and Debi set up every year with their three grandsons. Outside, lights and figures of Santa and Mrs. Claus on motorcycles will be displayed. The Southern Pines home of Donna and Al Carter is the showplace home on the Candlelight Tour this year. Their Bethesda Road estate, called the “Star of Texas,” is tucked away into more than 5 acres bordering Weymouth Woods State Park. The home, a Southern Living design, was built by Allen Walters in 1997. The Carters
have blended southern, traditional design with their love of the American Southwest. The great room has a floor-toceiling wall of windows and a fireplace made from limestone from Texas. Cedar beams give the room an airy expanse. For Christmas, the Carters put up a 12-foot live tree surrounded with red poinsettias in the great room.
Major Fundraiser The Candlelight Tour of Homes serves as a major fundraiser for the Southern Pines school, directly funding the technology and media needs, educational materials and supplemental programs for EDS students and teachers. Tickets for the tour may be purchased ahead of time at The Country Bookshop, Gulley’s Garden Center, Cool Sweats, Lady Bedford’s Tea Parlour and Gift Shoppe, Nature’s Own, 195 Restaurant, One Eleven Main (Gifts-Table-Home) or by calling the Episcopal Day School at (910) 692-3492. Group tickets may be purchased at www.episcopalday .org. The cost of each ticket is $15 in advance or $20 the day of the tour at the door of each tour home.
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Home Tours Tour From Page 9 with mini croissants. Assorted juices, coffee and tea also will be available. The tour is sponsored by Whispers, the women’s organization of the village. Proceeds will fund the many philanthropic projects designated each year by the Whispers board. Tickets for the tour and the optional brunch at the Country Club of Whispering Pines are $16. Cost for just the tour is $10. Tickets are available at The Country Bookshop in Southern Pines as well as Whispering Pines Properties and the Country Club of Whispering Pines reception desk. On the day of event, tickets may be purchased in the west dining room of the Country Club of Whispering Pines or at any of the featured homes. More information is available from Arlene Jenkins, (910) 949-3364.
Merry Christmas! from
To learn more about continuing care retirement living at Belle Meade and Pine Knoll, call 9 1 0 . 2 4 6 . 1 0 0 8 or 8 0 0 . 3 4 3 . 7 4 6 3 www.sjp.org St. Joseph of the Pines is the leading provider of senior living and health services serving the Sandhills region since 1948.
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
Open Houses
Towns to Host Open Houses, Receptions The town of Pinebluff will host an open house from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, in the town hall and library. Santa Claus will be in attendance and refreshments will be served. The public is invited. On Monday, Dec. 14, the town of Vass will hold a holiday reception for residents at town hall. The reception will follow the town’s regular board meeting at 7:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
House in the Horseshoe to Hold Colonial Christmas Open House On Saturday, Dec. 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the House in the Horseshoe State Historic Site will host a colonial Christmas event. The house will be decorated for the Christmas season and be open for visitors. “We are expecting approximately 40 re-enactors, who will be attired in period dress and will demonstrate various 18th century crafts and skills, complete with musket and cannon firing throughout the day,” says a spokesperson. “Come enjoy the music and light refreshments.” The house will remain decorated until after the first of the year. The House in the Horseshoe was built in 1772, and was also the site of a 1781 Revolutionary War militia skirmish between the owner, Whig Col. Phillip Alston and the Tory Col. David Fanning. The house still bears the many bullet holes it endured from the battle. The House in the Horseshoe was also the home of four-time governor Benjamin Williams. Admission to the colonial Christmas event is free; however, donations are accepted. The House in the Horseshoe is located 16 miles west of Sanford off N.C. 42 and 10 miles north of Carthage on the Carbonton-
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The House in the Horseshoe will be open for visitors this holiday season. Carthage Road (State Road 1006/1631). For more information, call (910) 947-2051. The Historic Sites Section of the Division of Archives and History is administered by the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources.
This event is sponsored by the House in the Horseshoe Preservation Committee Inc. All public buildings at the House in the Horseshoe are accessible to people with disabilities.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
Southern Pines Holiday Festivities Include Open House, Tree Lighting BY HANNAH SHARPE Newsroom Intern
After the Thanksgiving turkey coma wears off, the Southern Pines Business Association is encouraging shoppers to come downtown Sunday, Nov. 29, and enjoy an afternoon of holiday festivities with local businesses. The shops of downtown Southern Pines will welcome visitors to a Holiday Open House from 2 until 4:30 p.m., when the town will officially open the holiday season with the lighting of the Southern Pines Christmas tree at the Train Depot. “We’re really trying to get the whole downtown area buzzing with Christmas cheer,” says Kit McKinley, vice president of the Southern Pines Business Association (SPBA). Carolers from the First Baptist Church in Southern Pines and the Golf Capital Chorus will stroll up and down the streets
singing holiday songs, while visitors also can watch performances at the Train Depot by Almost Perfect, the Trinity A.M.E. Zion Church choir and the Sandhills Community College hand bell choir. Students from Baxter Clement’s Sandhills School of the Performing Arts also will perform. Besides the town’s holiday decorations, more than 60 Christmas trees decorated by the community will line the sidewalks as a part of downtown’s Festival of Trees. Santa will be sitting on a bench at the Train Depot accepting wish lists and posing for free photos with children. Parents should bring their own cameras for the photos. At 4:30 p.m., everyone will gather at the Train Depot to watch the annual tree lighting ceremony. Southern Pines Mayor Mike Haney will light the town’s holly tree, while the Emmanuel Episcopal Church choir, the
Golf Capital Chorus and the Trinity A.M.E. Zion Church choir perform. McKinley hopes people will want to buy local in search of unique gifts, rather than fight crowds vying for “door-buster savings” at big box stores the day after Thanksgiving. “We’re not your Walmart selling electronics at 4 a.m.,” McKinley said. “It’s the chance to go around and get specialty gifts.” The SPBA planned the open house early in the holiday season to promote local holiday specials and bring the community together to celebrate the season. “It’s a kick-off to your holiday shopping,” McKinley said. For more information about the event, contact Melissa McPeake at (910) 639-1730.
Hannah Sharpe can be reached at (910) 693-2485.
Malcolm Blue Farm Plans Annual Open House Christmas is coming to the historic Malcolm Blue Farm. On Saturday, Dec. 12, members of the Malcolm Blue Historical Society will host the farm’s annual Christmas open house from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. “We hope that everyone in the area will choose to take advantage of the opportunity to participate in this joyous function at the Malcolm Blue Farm,” says John Jarrett, a member of the board of directors of the society. The house will be decorated in holiday style appropriate to the period. The parlor will be filled with the sounds of traditional music and carols. In the dining room, there will be traditional foods to be sampled, and cooking demonstrations will be ongoing in the kitchen. Children will have the opportunity to participate in making pinecone bird
and the farm’s Clayton-Blair History Museum will be available. Prior to the open house, the annual membership meeting of the Malcolm Blue Historical Society will be held at 9:30 a.m. in the museum. All members of the society are invited to attend. The 2010 board of directors and officers of the society will be elected at this meeting. “We hope that all members can stay CONTRIBUTED and enjoy the open house as well,” says The Malcolm Blue Farm house as viewed Jarrett. “The open house is also for the from the back general public and all are invited.” The Malcolm Blue Farm is located at 1177 Bethesda Ave. in Aberdeen. feeders near the house as well as other For more information, call the Malcolm activities in and around the Pack House Blue Farm at (910) 944-7558, e-mail as weather allows. malcolmblue@ windstream.net or visit There also will be wood carving the farm’s Web site at www.malcolmblue demonstrations for all to enjoy. farm.com. Tours of the Malcolm Blue farmhouse
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Open Houses
Historic Open Houses Scheduled Get in the Christmas spirit by visiting annual yule open houses sponsored by the Moore County Historical Association. Volunteers will decorate two historic homes and provide demonstrations of domestic activities at two free open houses, both from 1 to 4 p.m., starting Dec. 5 and 6, at the Bryant House, and at the Shaw House in Southern Pines, Dec. 11, 12 and 13. Open house visitors will be permitted brief tours of the historic buildings, and refreshments will be available. The Shaw House is at the corner of Morganton Road and Broad Street. The Bryant House is located between Carthage and West End. For more information about these holiday events, call (910) 692-2051.
Windridge Gardens Open House Set Windridge Gardens invites the public to enjoy an evening stroll through its gardens on Tuesday, Dec. 8, from 4 to 8 p.m. Handcrafted jewelry and Warsin collectible garden statuary will be featured. Light refreshments will be served. Windridge Gardens is located at 1650 Valley View Road, Southern Pines (adjacent to Hyland Golf Course). Call (910) 692-0855 for more information.
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
Banquets And Galas
Red Carpet Animal Advocates Presents ‘Puttin’ on the Ritz Top Hat And Tails’ Adoption Event
The third annual “Puttin’ on the Ritz Top Hat and Tails” adoption event will be held at the Fair Barn Monday, Dec. 7. All the dogs and cats to be adopted will be black and white. “This year, we feature wine, heavy hors d’oeuvres and an awesome silent auction,” says a spokesman. “We will also be having a red carpet pet parade featuring vintage cars to transport our animals.” Tickets, which are $30, are now being sold by various members of Animal Advocates of Moore County. Sponsorships are also available from $250 to $2,500, and all are tax deductible. “We are seeking donations for our silent auction,” says the spokesman. All proceeds will go to support AAMC’s programs such as spay and CONTRIBUTED neuter, surgery needs and Barb Shepherd, director of operations, emergency care; feral cat sanctuary; follows a white cat up the red carpet. lost and found animal program;
foster care program; emergency phone line; and adoption events. Animal Advocates of Moore County is committed to all aspects of animal welfare, including spay/neuter programs, prevention of animal cruelty and animal rescue assistance. AAMC provides community education for animal welfare, supports humane legislation for animals and promotes compassion and protection for all animals. “So come out to the Fair Barn and enjoy a ‘sophisticated’ event and mingle with adoptable black and white animals and other dedicated animal lovers,” says the spokesman. AAMC was founded by Maureen Horansky in 2000, and is a nonprofit organization. To obtain tickets, call Sue Mims at (910) 245-7446, Maureen Horansky at (910) 295-7587 or the Animal Advocates office at (910) 944-5098.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
Holiday Banquet Supports SCC Hospitality Program “Bells will be ringing …” The Sandhills Hospitality Association is getting ready for and feeling the spirit of the holiday season as it plans its annual holiday banquet. The 2009 SHA banquet and silent auction begins at 6:30 p .m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, at the Country Club of North Carolina. “We hope you will join us in a fun-filled evening at the annual SHA dinner banquet,” says Shane Bussino, general manager of SpringHill Suites by Marriott Pinehurst Southern Pines. “This is a great time to spend with fellow industry partners and support the hospitality program at Sandhills Community College. All proceeds from the silent auction will benefit the Sandhills Community College hospitality/culinary arts program. Organizers are currently looking for donations to support the silent auction. If you are able to contribute, a board member will be happy to pick it up or the donation can be dropped off at the Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Remember that with each paid SHA membership, you have one dinner included for the event. Additional guests are always welcome,” Bussino says. “Whether this is your first or fifth time attending, you will be sure to have a good time.” Those interested in attending or donating should call The Residence Inn by Marriott at (910) 693-3400. Reservations for the banquet are requested.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
Hospital Ball Benefits NICU Nicholas and Lisa Lynn have at least two good reasons to look forward to the 2009 FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital Auxiliary Holiday Ball. First of all, they have been asked to serve as chairs of the annual gala. Also, and most importantly from their perspective, the Auxiliary has decided to direct proceeds from the event to support the care of critically ill and premature newborns at Moore Regional’s Clarke Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Nicholas Lynn has been medical director of the 16-bed Level III intensive care nursery since 2005. “We’re thrilled,” he says. “We feel honored for this opportunity to represent the NICU and the hospital community as a whole. We’re really looking forward to it.” The Holiday Ball will be held Friday, Dec. 11, at the Carolina Hotel ballroom in Pinehurst. According to Auxiliary Chair Fay Terry, the decision to support the NICU grew out of a discussion about the Auxiliary’s ongoing support of the soon-to-be-constructed FirstHealth Hospitality House. “When we began thinking about a project for the ball that would be something to help a specific population, it became obvious that many of the families who would need the services provided by the Hospitality House would be parents of newborns who were not yet able to go home and needed care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit,” Terry says. “This seemed to be a nice connection with some of the things we have been working for with previous balls, such as the Hospice House and the Hospitality House, and gives us the opportunity to help with something directly related to patient care on the Moore Regional campus.” Lynn says he is very grateful for the
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Lisa Lynn and Dr. Nicholas Lynn. Auxiliary’s decision to support the NICU at Moore Regional, which he calls a “wonderful service” for infants and families throughout the Sandhills. ”It’s more than providing care for Moore County,” he says. “While we get most of our babies from Moore County, we frequently provide care to babies and families from all of the neighboring counties — Richmond, Scotland, Montgomery, Lee and Hoke.” Founded in 1930, the Hospital Auxiliary has a long-standing tradition of providing support to newborns and, in addition to the ball project, has underwritten several ongoing programs benefiting newborns at Moore Regional. These range from continuing education for NICU nurse practitioners to providing appropriate car seats to discharged newborns in certain circumstances and underwriting the rental cost of electric breast pumps for low-income parents.
Banquets And Galas
Christmas Banquet Celebrates 23 Years of Changing Lives Sandhills Teen Challenge will celebrate 23 years of changing lives during its annual Christmas banquet. The center’s popular banquet will be held over three evenings, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 10, 11 and 12, at its 444 Farmlife School Road, Carthage, location. A delicious dinner will be served each night, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Sal and Debby DiBianca and the Teen Challenge Choir will be on hand with music and exciting testimonies of God’s love and power breaking the bands of addiction and restoring families. “Come and celebrate Christmas with us,”
says Debby DiBianca. Sandhills Teen Challenge is a residential faith-based recovery program for men ages 18 and older with a drug or alcohol problem. Teen Challenge endeavors to help people become mentally sound, emotionally balanced, socially adjusted, physically well and spiritually alive. The cost for the banquet is $10 per person, or a table of eight can be sponsored for $60 per table. Reservations are required. No children, please. For reservations, call the DiBiancas at (910) 947-2944.
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Concerts
Christmas Concert Planned The First Presbyterian Church in Carthage will present a free Christmas concert at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6. Elizabeth Williams, Kay Patterson and Rosemary Paschal will perform various selections on the organ and piano. The church choir also will be featured. Organizers invite those who will be attending the Christmas Tour of Homes to come enjoy an evening of Christmas music and celebration. The First Presbyterian Church is located at 110 S. Ray St., across from the Carthage post office.
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
Moore Philharmonic Orchestra Announces Winter Concert, Silent Auction Celebrate the holiday season by enjoying an afternoon of free holiday music while helping raise money for the Moore Philharmonic Orchestra. The orchestra will hold its annual winter concert and silent auction at the Carolina Hotel on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 3 p.m. The hotel is located at 80 Carolina Vista Drive in Pinehurst. Proceeds from the silent auction will support a scholarship fund benefiting Moore County music students and will help cover operating and general expenses for the orchestra. No tickets are required, but taxdeductible donations are welcome. Since 2005, the Moore Philharmonic Orchestra has served the Sandhills community supporting music
appreciation and education. It provides an outlet for approximately 50 volunteer musicians to perform varied programs of orchestral literature. Members include adults and talented college, high school and middle school students. It is a nonprofit 501c(3) organization and relies entirely on individual and business contributions to cover operating and general expenses and to support a scholarship fund benefiting Moore County music students. The orchestra is a member of the Moore County Arts Council and the Moore County Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit the orchestra’s Web site at www.mporche stra.com.
Society to Present ‘Sing for Joy’ The Moore County Choral Society will perform its holiday concert, “Sing for Joy,” on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m., in Owens Auditorium at Sandhills Community College. Tickets are $15 for adults and $7.50
for students and children, and are available at the Campbell House, The Country Bookshop, Kirk Tours in Pinehurst, the Coffee Scene in Seven Lakes and at the door. For more information, call (910) 2953971.
Winter Choral Concert Set The Pinecrest Winter Choral Concert is set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, in Robert E. Lee Auditorium at Pinecrest High School. Available at the door, tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for students and senior citizens.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
‘HOLIDAY IN THE PINES’ Paint Your Holidays Festive This Year Production Ushers in Season Kelly Curran and Barbara Lamblin, owners of Colors ‘n Clay, invite you to “just say no” to frantic holiday shopping and start a new tradition this holiday season. The pottery studio in downtown Southern Pines where you can “paint your own pottery … and more” is hosting a number of special events this holiday season. The festive fun gets an early morning start with special savings Friday, Nov. 27. The day after Thanksgiving sale begins at 8 a.m. with 40 percent off until 8:30 a.m., 30 percent off from 8:31 to 9 a.m., 20 percent off from 9:01 to 9:30 a.m. and 10 percent off from 9:31 to 10 a.m. All ornaments are $5 from 10:01 a.m. to 4:59 p.m. Bagels, juice, hot chocolate and other snacks will be served. Door prizes also will be awarded. “Don’t miss it,” says Curren. “It’s way more fun than standing in long lines and fighting over the ‘it’ toy.” Stop by Colors ‘n Clay on Saturday, Dec. 5, while downtown celebrating with the Southern Pines Christmas parade and receive half-off the studio fee. On Saturday, Dec. 12, children are invited to join Colors ‘n Clay for its third annual Paint With Santa, from 9 to 11 a.m. Each child will receive one ornament, breakfast snacks and a visit with Santa Claus. The cost is $10 per child, and reservations and prepayment are required. Colors n’ Clay is located at 230 S.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. For more information or to make reservations, call (910) 692-4656 or visit the studio’s Web site at www.colorsnclay.com.
Holidays are a time to celebrate the magic of family, friends and loved ones. It also is the time for shopping madness, Christmas carols, angels, candlelit evenings and, sometimes, a little snow. Moore OnStage and Taylor Dance invite you to celebrate the magic and wonder of the holidays as they present the holiday production “Holiday in the Pines.” Moore OnStage’s second production of its 2009-2010 season will be presented on the stage at the Robert E. Lee Auditorium at Pinecrest High School. Show times are Friday, Nov. 27, at 2 and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 28, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 29, at 2 p.m. Award-winning choreographer
Gary Taylor has created a “Hallmark” moment which will help usher in the holidays for you and your entire family. From the excitement of Manheim Steamroller’s Christmas music to the traditional carols we all know how to sing, the production covers all facets of the holidays. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s music of movement will add another layer the the production. “This show is for the entire family who will be visiting you for the Thanksgiving weekend,” says a Moore OnStage spokesperson. Tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for students 18 and under. Reservations may be made with a MasterCard or Visa by calling (910) 692-7118.
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Theater Ballroom Dancers Present Christmas Program Dec. 19 Students of the Fred Astaire Dance Studio will present an evening of dancing as part of its Disney Christmas production. Ballroom dancers of all ages will take to the stage at 5 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 19, at Mr. P’s in Southern Pines. According to Debby Hasson, owner of the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Pinehurst, a number of ballroom dance styles will be presented during the production, including swing, foxtrot, cha cha, waltz and many more. The public is welcome. Tickets are $10 with a toy donation in advance and $12.50 at the door, also with a toy donation. All toys will be donated by the Pinehurst dance studio to community groups and schools for distribution. For more information or advance tickets, call the studio at (910) 585-2572.
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
Reindeer Fun Run Promotes Health Happenings
Church Sponsors Toys for Kids Campaign The First Missionary Baptist Church is sponsoring its annual Christmas Toys for Kids campaign. If you live in the Southern Pines, Aberdeen and Pinehurst triad and need assistance to purchase toys for your children, ages 0-11, call the First Missionary Baptist Church office at (910) 692-2022 and speak with Judy. If you would like to donate to this campaign, call (910) 692-2022 and speak with Judy or mail a check or money order to Christmas Toys for Kids Campaign, P.O. Box 1191, Southern Pines, NC 28388.
Model Railroad Club Layout on Display The Sandhills Central Model Railroad Club was founded in 1979, and started its first train shows for the public in 1982. Club members are currently building a layout in the historic restored depot in Aberdeen. This new layout, currently still under construction, features the town of Aberdeen and other areas of interest throughout the county. On Saturday, Dec. 12, the Aberdeen layout will be open to the public during the town’s annual Christmas parade. Admission to this event is free; however, donations are welcome.
Shag Society Plans Christmas Party The Moore Area Shag Society will hold a Christmas party at 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at the Elks Club. This is a potluck event. The charge for members is $5 and for guests $10. For more information, call (910) 6924144.
BY HANNAH SHARPE Newsroom Intern
The third annual Southern Pines Reindeer Fun Run seeks to bring the community together for a fun, healthy holiday activity and to raise money for the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sandhills on Saturday, Dec. 5. The event includes the run/walk 5k at 9 a.m. and the Kid’s Egg Nog Jog, a halfmile race for children age 10 and under, beginning at 10 a.m. Last year, more than 600 runners participated in the event. The course for the race takes runners on a tour through the historic business district, downtown Southern Pines and the Weymouth neighborhoods. An awards ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m. for both race division winners and unique costumes. Categories for the costume contest include best team costume, best individual costume, best pet costume and dasher — first antlers to cross the finish line. The costumes will be judged by Southern Pines Mayor Mike Haney and
GLENN M. SIDES/The Pilot
Santa Claus escorts some youngsters to the Reindeer Fun Run last year. sponsors. Last year’s costume contest winners included FirstHealth Reindeer and Presents for best team costume, Katelyn Agee as a Christmas elf for best individual costume, Craig Baggett as the
first Dasher and Elvis the Reindeer Donkey for best pet costume. Preregistration for the 5k is $20 and $5 per pet before Nov. 27. Preregistration for the Half-Mile Egg Nog Jog is $10. Same-day registration and packet pickup is between 7:45 and 8:45 a.m. Participants are urged to get to the location early to ensure that the events remain on time. Biscuits from Chic-fil-A, hot cocoa and coffee will be available at 8 a.m. Paid entry includes a Reindeer Fun Run long-sleeved T-shirt, antlers, a racing bib, chip timing, a goodie bag and a Reindeer Fun Run bandanna for pets. Participants are invited to stay after the race and take in the Southern Pines Christmas parade, beginning at 11:30 a.m. at Downtown Park. For more information about the race, sponsorship opportunities or information about donating to the Boys and Girls Club, go to www.reindeerfunrun.com.
Hannah Sharpe can be reached at (910) 693-2485.
Aberdeen Gears Up for the Holidays Holiday Movie Night The Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department continues its monthly movie night Friday, Dec. 11, at Aberdeen Recreation Station with a holiday-themed screening of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” based on the popular children’s book by Dr. Seuss. The movie night, which lasts from 6 to 7:45 p.m., serves as a fun activity for families, or as an opportunity for parents to keep children occupied while doing some holiday shopping. Admission to the screening is $1 for Aberdeen residents and $2 for nonresidents. Snacks and drinks will be provided. To RSVP for this event, call the
Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department at (910) 944-PARK.
Supper with Santa The Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department will host a spaghetti dinner, provided by Jordan’s Catering, on Friday, Dec. 4, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The evening will include a reading of “T’was the Night Before Christmas,” a craft activity and holiday treats. All children will have a chance to meet Santa Claus and have photos taken with him. Tickets are $8 for residents, $10 for nonresidents and $5 for children ages three and younger.
Reservations are required. For more information, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (910) 944-PARK.
Senior Holiday Potluck Lunch Bring a hot or cold dish to the Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Holiday Potluck at Aberdeen Lake Park Recreation Station Thursday, Dec. 17. The luncheon lasts from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meat, drinks and flatware will be provided. Please RSVP to the Parks and Recreation Department by Dec. 10, by calling (910) 944-PARK.
Creative Christmas Table Showcases Holiday Décor A variety of different holiday table settings and arrangements will be displayed during the Creative Christmas Tables event Tuesday, Dec. 8, at Little River Farms Resort clubhouse. On display from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the styles will range from elegant to folksy, and are meant to provide inspiration for those looking for new ways to set and decorate their tables. There will be 25 seasonally decorated holiday tables to view. In addition, several corner shops, including The Country Store, Heritage Crafts and Christmas Shop and White Elephant Specials, will offer a selection
of handmade crafts and gift items for sale. There also will be a cash raffle with tickets for sale. The raffle’s first prize is $400, second prize $100, and the third prize is a $45 gift certificate compliments of Bonefish Grill. The drawing will be held on Dec. 8, and you do not have to be present to win. Tickets (sold at the door) are only $3,
and the proceeds will benefit the North Carolina 4-H Museum, which will be built at 4-H Camp Millstone near Ellerbe, as part of the National 4-H Centennial celebration. The Moore County Extension and Community Association sponsors this holiday event. The Little River Farms Resort clubhouse is located on U.S. 15/501 between Pinehurst and Carthage.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
Weymouth to Host Several Holiday Events As the last decoration was taken down from the Boyd House following the Weymouth Christmas House event in 2008, plans were already being made for 2009. “Each year gets better” was a popular comment made by many of the tour members and guests attending the 2008 event. “Christmas in the Pines” will be the theme of this year’s Weymouth Christmas House tour, and the Women of Weymouth have been hard at work creating this coming season’s event. The house will be decked out in each and every room, adorned for the holidays by area garden clubs, individuals, florists and decorators. Friends of Weymouth members receive an invitation to the preview party to be held Wednesday, Dec. 2, and the main three-day tour will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, through Saturday, Dec. 5. “This event is always one of the most enjoyable and festive of the season for the entire community,” says a spokesperson. The preview party features a tour of the beautifully decorated rooms of Boyd House, a grand buffet, open bar and dancing under a tent. Each day of the house tour features special events of music, readings and a cookie and punch reception. The tickets for the tour are priced at
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Weymouth
held at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3. On Friday, Dec. 4, a special candlelight tour of the house will be available from 7 to 9 p.m. The tour includes elaborate wine, cheese, desserts and background music, all for $25. Reservations are required for the candlelight tour, which is limited to 100 persons. On Saturday, Dec. 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., there will be a special children’s tour. Early bird parents and children will enjoy a guided house tour, a special visit with Santa Claus and, of course, treats for all the children. The cost is $3 for children over three years old, and the tour will be conducted by a docent in groups of 10 children, along with their parents. CONTRIBUTED Space is limited for the children’s tour Decked out for the holidays, the Boyd House, home of the Weymouth Center for the and the carol sing; however, no reservaArts and Humanities, will be the site of the annual Weymouth Christmas House tions are required for those two events. Thursday, Dec. 3, through Saturday, Dec. 5, hosted by the Women of Weymouth. A full-fledged cultural center since 1979, Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities is located in the Boyd House $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Olmsted Village and Phoenix in Seven at 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Advance tickets will be available at Lakes. Pines. Weymouth Center and The Country For information and candlelight tour Bookshop in Southern Pines, The Faded Other Special Events reservations, call Weymouth at (910) 692Rose in Pinehurst, Given Book Shop in The annual Carols at Weymouth will be 6261.
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New Year’s Eve
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
Ring in the New Year at First Eve BY HANNAH SHARPE Newsroom Intern
The Southern Pines Business Association invites the community to ring in the New Year early in downtown Southern Pines for its First Eve celebration. Chess Cloninger, co-chairman of the event, describes First Eve as a chance for families to come together and celebrate with the community. “It’s a blast,” Cloninger says. “The kids love it.” The fun family New Year’s event starts at 6 p.m. and lasts until 8 p.m., giving families a chance to let young people celebrate the new year with a party. “It’s mainly for young people and their families,” Cloninger says. “It’s so they’re not left out of the celebration.” The night’s festivities will include food, face painting, Happy Dan the Magic Man, Jingles the clown, party favors and other activities, all leading up to the “Pinecone Drop” at 8 p.m. when Buddy Spong, of the Moore County American Red Cross, drops the town’s giant pinecone to welcome the new year. The band Almost Perfect will perform in front of the post office on South East Broad Street, while DJ William Anthony of Real School Productions will be playing music at the Train Depot. Southern Pines has celebrated First Eve since 2001. Over the years, the event
STEVE BOUSER/The Pilot
New Year’s Eve revelers wait for the “Pinecone Drop” at last year’s celebration. has grown into a beloved tradition that draws people from all over. “All the businesses pitch in to support the community,” Cloninger says. “It’s been bigger and bigger every year.” Considering the spending cutbacks that many families are making for this year’s holiday season, First Eve offers a free, family-friendly event for the community. Cloninger hopes that everyone will
come out to enjoy community fun before the real New Year’s parties begin later in the night. First Eve is sponsored by the Southern Pines Business Association and the Southern Pines Parks and Recreation Department.
Hannah Sharpe can be reached at (910) 693-2485.