August is a month of mixed feelings. It's still hot and sunny outside, perfect for trips to the beach, cooking out and spending time with friends.

But August also means back to school for many, signifying the end of summer. East Carolina University begins its fall semester Aug. 20 and Pitt Community College heads back to the class room earlier on Aug. 15.

Back to school means ECU's official welcome back with Pirate Pooloza Aug. 21 at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium.

Also signifying the end of summer and the beginning of fall is the start of the 2008 football season.

ECU will play Viriginia Tech Aug. 30 in Charlotte. But before the game, ECU will hold its annual Meet the Pirates day on Aug. 16 at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium.

The event is an opportunity to meet the team as well as the ECU cheerleaders and coaching staff, take photos, visit the Dowdy Student Store souvenir booth, get autographs from the football players and enjoy entertainment by Captain Jim the Pirate.

Also in August is the 23rd annual Winterville Watermelon Festival Aug. 21-23. In addition to all things related to the pink delicious melon, the festival includes a Concert with the Stars on the final night. This year American Idol contestant and North Carolina native Bucky Covington will take the stage. Fellow country singer Jack Ingram will also perform. For more about the festival, see page 7.

Don't forget to nominate people for our annual 30 under 30 issue in November. For more information about the 30 under 30, see page 10.