Birdie: By S.T. Wooten Corp. of Wilson, the contractor responsible for the $1.5 million repaving project on Broad Street in downtown Southern Pines, for so adeptly handling this tough job. These folks started the project Sunday a week ago, one of the hottest days of the year, and have worked throughout the evening to avoid adversely affecting the merchants' businesses and inconveniencing their customers. The contractor's flexibility on this assignment - and willingness to work through the night - has made all the difference. Great work, guys!

Birdie: By Beth Hurley, the seventh-grade social studies teacher at Southern Middle School who was one of eight educators chosen from across the country for a teaching fellowship. The Aberdeen resident traveled to Kansas City for a four-day workshop at the National World War I Museum. Hurley's studies will allow her to "enhance the way they share the lessons of the Great War." Now she'll be able to add color and context to her young charges studies. Way to go, Beth!