In the first of four free concerts of the 2008-09 Fall Sertoma Series, on Sept. 6 at 3 p.m. Great Big Gone showcases its primarily original compositions, which include a mix of styles from electrified porch picking and honky tonk, to blues, western swing and roots rock.

The series continues with: • “Brass at Bond” on Saturday, Sept. 13, at 3 p.m.
• Cary Town Band on Friday, Sept. 26, at 7:30 p.m.
• The fourth and final performance of the Series, a children’s one-act opera entitled “Little Red’s Most Unusual Day,” takes place on Saturday, Oct. 4, at 3 p.m.

These events will all be held at the Sertoma Amphitheatre inside Bond Park, 801 High House Road.

Writers workshops
The Cary Public Library is hosting an Aspiring Writer Workshop series starting this fall.

Would-be poets, screenwriters, novelists and other writers are invited to attend one or more of the free workshops. The workshops will be led by local writers and teachers who specialize in each genre. Advance registration is required.

The series starts 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, with Agatha Award-winning nonfiction author Chris Roerden. Author of “Don’t Sabotage Your Submission” and “Don’t Murder Your Mystery,” Roerden will give advice on how to write suspense in fiction.

Also in the series: • Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 7 p.m., Amanda Lamb, author of “Smotherhood” and “Deadly Dose,” will discuss the research that goes into writing nonfiction.
• Monday, Nov. 3, at 7 p.m., Alex Sokoloff, a screenwriter and author of “The Harrowing” and “The Price,” will discuss writing for TV and film.
• Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 7 p.m., satirist Sharon Wood will lead a discussion on writing humor.
• Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 7 p.m., award-winning writers Sarah Shaber and Brynn Bonner will discuss short-story writing.
• Tuesday, March 10, 7 p.m., Emmy Award-winning storyteller Willa Brigham will help you create family stories from your memories and adventures.
• In April (date to be announced), poet and cultural historian Darrell Stover will discuss the basics of writing poetry, with a focus on jazz poetry.

To register call 460-3350.