Aug. 23 - 29, 2013
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Students equate effort, goals with success Many students stayed busy during their summer break with activities such as athletic camps, team workouts and practices. With a new school year on the horizon, these students hope their hard work and preparation pays off in the coming months. Members of NW High’s color guard practice their halftime routine at a recent band camp.
by MIKE SHAW NW GUILFORD – If you drove by Northwest or Northern High schools during the summer months, you probably noticed there was nothing dormant about the schools. From the road, students could be seen participating in various activities such as football and tennis workouts or all-day band camps. While many students caught up on their sleep and kept a more leisurely pace during the summer, some preferred to invest their time in honing their skills in preparation for the upcoming school year. Such is the case for the 135 members of
the Northwest Vikings marching band when I observed them on a hot summer afternoon. The band’s members patiently stood in formation in one of the school’s parking lots as their band director, Brian McMath, instructed them. Many of the students were covered in sweat while learning their craft – the craft that has set them apart from some of the best bands in the state of North Carolina. “The first day of camp…I tell them that I respect them and appreciate them more than anything,” McMath said. “A lot of kids choose not to do this activity because of the time commitment.
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Band Director Brian McMath gives NW High band members instructions at a summer practice. NW High’s Darlene Joyner (center), gives students instructional tips during a volleyball camp.
Photos by Mike Shaw/NWO
IN THIS ISSUE News in Brief ......................................... 3 Your questions ..................................... 4 Summerfield Town Council ................. 6 Around Town ....................................... 8 Bits & Pieces / Celebration ................. 9 Crime/Incident Report .......................10 Community Calendar........................12 New year, new shoes, Sears..............14 Letters/Opinions ................................16 Grins & Gripes .....................................17 Classifieds ...........................................19 Index of Advertisers .......................... 23