Features

By Linda Arnold

Maybe this month’s eclipses have something to do with it. Or the global events that are rocking our worlds.

Whatever it is, I’ve run across a number of folks who are feeling unsettled right now. When this occurs, you may feel scattered, going in lots of different directions.  Or temporarily paralyzed, unable to make any moves.

Rest assured, you’re not alone. These are tumultuous times, and they can take their toll.

Aug. 26 marks the 97th anniversary of the constitutional amendment that granted women the right to vote.

Two groups are celebrating the passage of the 19th Amendment with a rally from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 26, in Franklin Square Park at 130 E. West St. in Southport.

The event features speakers, including state Rep. Deb Butler, live music by Fun Fatale Trio, local civic and women’s groups’ tables and a supply drive for local schoolchildren.

It’s that time of year again: Alarm clocks, school buses, backpacks and homework. As our children return to their scholarly abodes, many times their pets become anxious when left behind. Each year, I’m overwhelmed with questions from frantic parents desperately dealing with stress from both their two- and four-legged children. Here are some of my favorite tips for making the back to school or back to work adjustment.

1. Transition Time

By John Nelson

By Linda Arnold

How many furlongs are in a mile?

Who is the only U.S. President to never marry?

What geological era are we in right now?

If any of these stumped you, you’re not alone.

I spotted a book a couple of weeks ago with Jeff Foxworthy’s photo on the front. I immediately connected him with the television show, “Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?” And I thought this would be a fun gag gift for an upcoming birthday celebration.

If you’re one of those last-minute souls who has not yet mapped out your solar eclipse plans, Silver Coast Winery serves up a sol-ution.

Just in time for Monday’s unique cross-country eclipse that will briefly cast a shadow over the Carolinas, the popular winery at 6680 Barbeque Road in the rural Grissettown area of western Brunswick County has scheduled “Come Sit, Sip and See the Solar Eclipse” from 12:30 to 4 p.m.

The hottest cars and trucks will be on display at the 14th Annual Leland Under the Lights Car Show from 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, at Lowes Foods in Brunswick Forest.

This rain-or-shine event staged by the North Brunswick Chamber of Commerce last year showcased 200 participating cars and trucks.

Attendees are invited to visit car show vendors, dine in one of the restaurants or browse the shops at the Villages in Brunswick Forest.

Brian White with Jammin 99.9 will be on hand with music.

By Linda Arnold

Let’s face it: There are enough external critics in the world without having to listen to that voice inside your head.

And, while most of us want to learn, grow and improve our lives, this can become a slippery slope. If you never stop to take stock of where you are and appreciate all the things you’ve accomplished, you’ll always be yearning — and putting more and more pressure on yourself.

Is your life in order?

It may be summer, but the fall/winter season is already upon the renowned Thalian Hall in Wilmington.

Tickets went on sale Saturday, July 29, for Thalian’s Legends and Main Attractions series.

Hal Holbrook in “Mark Twain Tonight!” kicks off the Legends series Friday, Oct. 20, with a return to Thalian Hall in one of his most revered roles. The Academy Award nominated, Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor portrays Mark Twain as a plain-speaking humorist who skewers politicians, newspapermen and so-called patriots.