Belated Birdie: By Bob Burwell, Dick Pitassy and Dave Davis, who came up with the idea for a Vince Gill concert to raise money for The First Tee. And they wouldn’t rest until the ambitious plan they first discussed one night at Robert’s Golf had turned into a splendid reality — one that more than 5,000 people were privileged to witness on the night of May 29. Thanks go to the talented Mr. Gill for his generosity. Congratulations to all involved for one of the most memorable entertainments ever staged here in the Sandhills — and all for such a good cause. We look forward to seeing many more such events in Pinehurst’s terrific new Arboretum, a perfect venue.

Birdie: By Episcopal Day School, for the half-century of excellent and nurturing education it has offered its students since opening its doors in 1959 at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Southern Pines. During 50 years of great social change and turmoil, the school has offered the kind of stability and continuity born of an institution that is marked by an unusual degree of teacher retention and devotion to students’ welfare. You’re one of the educational jewels of this wonderful community, EDS. Happy anniversary!

Birdie: By Jeffrey Scheer, president of Welcome to Southern Pines Inc., for the ambitious plans he is pressing to improve the Southern Pines Welcome Center, located in the restored downtown train depot. From a working model train inside the building to much longer hours to greater artwork, Sheer and his colleagues want to make a stop-off at the center an even more enriching and welcoming experience. Let’s all pitch in and support this worthy effort.