Northwest Observer I Jan. 10 - Jan. 16, 2019 by pscommunications

Jan. 10 - 16, 2019

IN THIS ISSUE Town improves process.................. 2 Your Questions ................................ 4 News in brief

Speed limit reduced on N.C. 68... 5 Oak Ridge Town Council ............... 8 Community Calendar ...................10 Pets & Critters .................................11 Charlie and me .............................12 Pet Briefs .........................................13 Pet Adoptions.................................14 Yoga for dudes ..............................18 Local artist releases first album ...19 Crime/Incident Report ................. 20 Student profiles ............................. 22 Grins & Gripes ............................... 24 Classifieds ......................................27 Index of Advertisers ......................31 Girl Scout cookies are on sale now through March 3 – look for Scouts to be selling cookies in your neighborhood and at local grocery stores and other retail outlets. Consumers can visit the cookie booth locator at www. girlscoutcookies.org, download the ofﬁcial Girl Scout Cookie Finder app, available for free on iOS or Android devices, or contact the council at info@girlscoutsp2p.org.

‘Reset’ was a good try, but Summerﬁeld Town Council resumes squabbling in 2019 Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

In this photo, taken during a break in the Dec. 15, 2018, council meeting, Cheryl Gore (far right), event planner and assistant to the manager, serves cake to attendees while council members (L-R) Mayor Pro Tem Dena Barnes, John O’Day and Dianne Laughlin enjoy a break during the meeting. The break, coupled with refreshments, was at the suggestion of council member Reece Walker, who, acknowledging the council’s discord, had requested it pause for a few moments at the December meeting and “reset” for 2019. At his suggestion, the mayor responded that “it would take more than cake” to put the council back on the right track. Nevertheless, cake was served and some even shared a few lighthearted moments as they were eating it. See related article on p. 4.

‘You have been sued!’ Former councilman ﬁles another lawsuit Jan. 3; councilwoman Dianne Laughlin named as defendant

voted unanimously that Rotruck was not a permanent resident of Summerfield.

by PATTI STOKES SUMMERFIELD – If persistence does indeed pay off, Todd Rotruck should be a wealthy man. On Jan. 3 Rotruck filed another lawsuit related to losing his seat on Summerfield Town Council last April – this time, Dianne Laughlin, who was appointed Oct. 9 to serve the remainder of his four-year term, is named as the defendant.

Dianne Laughlin

Todd Rotruck

Rotruck was sworn into office Dec. 12, 2017, but lost his seat four months later when the Guilford County Board of Elections held a hearing for a voter registration challenge filed by Summerfield resident Janelle Robinson and afterward

Consequently, BOE staff was directed to immediately change Rotruck’s voter registration to reflect his Lewiston Road, Greensboro, address as his permanent residence. County Attorney Mark Payne and Summerfield Town Attorney agreed the BOE’s decision meant Rotruck’s council seat was declared vacant, effective immediately. “This was fairly easy, because there is a statute that speaks to this

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Town to improve on rezoning case notiﬁcation process

JAN. 10 - 16, 2019

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

Obtaining larger, more visible signs to notify citizens of an upcoming public hearing is one of the steps the Town of Oak Ridge plans to take to improve the notiﬁcation process it currently follows. Mayor Spencer Sullivan acknowledged motorists driving 45 mph “can’t read any verbiage” on existing signs the town uses, such as the one shown above.

Council members also hear complaints that rezoning notice signs are too small and a former councilman’s questioning of Mayor Spencer Sullivan on rezoning matter by CHRIS BURRITT OAK RIDGE – Oak Ridge Town Council agreed to improve its process for notifying residents of property rezoning requests after hearing homeowner complaints regarding a pending rezoning case on N.C. 68. The council voted 5-0 at its Jan. 3 meeting in favor of recommendations by Town Manager Bill Bruce. Among other steps the town plans to take, earlier notice will be given to homeowners living within 500 feet of property scheduled for rezoning hearings. The property rezoning process “is confusing to a lot of people,” council

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member Ann Schneider said. The council adopted her suggestion that letters to homeowners explain the two-step process for rezoning requests: first, requests are considered by the town’s Planning and Zoning Board and then by the council. Bobbi Baker, vice chair of the P&Z Board, praised the council for improving notification of rezoning cases. However, she and Jason Streck, an alternate on the board, told council members the town’s signs announcing upcoming rezoning cases are too small and too hard for passing motorists to read. “It might as well be a ‘We buy houses cheap’ sign,” Streck said. “If the point of all of this is to provide notice to the public, a basic sign like that is not meeting the stated goal.” The signs, which measure 14 by 22 inches, are intended “to alert the public that there is a local proceeding affecting this property,” Town Attorney Michael Thomas said. At that point, passersby

...continued on p. 6

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OUR TEAM Patti Stokes, editor/publisher Laura Reneer, marketing manager Marilyn Grubbs, admin/editorial assistant Yvonne Truhon, page layout Leon Stokes, IT director Lucy Smith, finance manager Linda Schatz, distribution manager Steve Mann and Chris Burritt, staff writers Helen Ledford, Stewart McClintock and Annette Joyce, contributing writers

There are three Facebook pages with the word “Summerfield” in their name that prompt discussions about all the “goings-on” in Summerfield.

I’d like to know what the goal of each page is, who administers the pages, and what their policy on banning people from commenting is, since I’m told on at least two of the sites people get banned with no warning. We reached out via Facebook messages to administrators at all three of the Facebook pages you’ve cited and

HOW TO REACH US email: info • celebrations • photos communitynews • realestatenews calendarevents • grinsandgripes opinions • editor • questions ... @ nwobserver.com phone: (336) 644-7035 fax: (336) 644-7006 office: 1616 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge mail: PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310 hours: M-F 9am-2pm (or by appt.)

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received quick responses from two of them, Summerfield Strong and Summerfield Scoop (and no response from Keep Summerfield Rural). Here’s what we learned from Summerfield Strong about who administrates its page and what its purpose is: “I don’t think it matters who is running our page,” said a Summerfield Strong administrator. “We feel Summerfield, North Carolina, is a wonderful place to live, to grow up, to raise a family, to go into retirement. Sadly, it has become a divided town. The purpose of this page is to challenge the misconceptions and misinformation with the truth about what is actually happening. It’s time someone dispelled the fear-mongering, and many times, outright lies. “If you’re wondering if the town is trying to do away with Summerfield’s rural character, waste all the taxpayers’ savings, take your well and force water and sewer, you’ve come to the right place. Our page will give you facts and not fear and false allegations. If you have any questions at all, please ask us. If we don’t know the answer, we do know where to find the truth. “Our mission is to dispel the negativity, fear and misinformation being used to divide the town, disparage the manager, staff and longstanding council members. “We support Summerfield Town Hall and we welcome their comments, input, and expertise.” Of its policy on banning people from commenting, a Summerfield Strong administrator told us, “Summerfield Strong does not have a written policy, but rather a verbal agreement to not delete people’s comments or ban individuals simply because of varying opinions. We do agree, though, we have the right to do so if threatening comments are made toward anyone commenting on our page. So far we have banned no one.” Don Wendelken with Summer-

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field Scoop had this to say, “I am the only one who has access to my page. Summerfield needed another source of news ‘Social Media and Twitter.’ I started Summerfield News so citizens could have instant access to events, issues and video coverage of meetings. The name was changed to Scoop because I was stating my opinion and covering more controversial matters. “In today’s society, waiting a week for news is too long, and it convinced me to provide this service,” Wendelken continued. “I am pleased that the Rhino is covering more news in the NW area. Since the NW is growing more sources of news and opinions is necessary.” Of his policy on banning people from making comments on his page, Wendelken said he also does not have a written policy, rather makes such decisions on a case-by-case basis. “I have about 30 banned out of 8,258 (followers),” Wendelken said. “Some are banned for making up false Facebook identities, foul language, misrepresenting a post and other scenarios that may create a problem. No written policy only an ‘at will’ approach. Basically, when I see it I decide.” We regret that none of the administrators with Keep Summerfield Rural responded to three separate messages we sent over a period of one week. We do know who at least two of the administrators are, and will reach out to them individually in the coming week in hopes of getting a response. Check out our Facebook page post at Facebook.com/Northwest Observer, originated Jan. 8, for input from some of those who have been banned from Keep Summerfield Rural and Summerfield Scoop Facebook pages. And so far, all of those who have come forward and said they were banned from these two sites have said they were given neither a warning nor a reason before being banned.

Council still squabbling in 2019 by CHRIS BURRITT SUMMERFIELD – For the Summerfield Town Council, it’s a new year with the same old discord. In the council’s first meeting of 2019, Mayor Gail Dunham sparred with councilmen Reece Walker and John O’Day and Town Manager Scott Whitaker on topics ranging from the scheduling of upcoming meetings to costs for a proposed $89,000 picnic shelter at Summerfield Athletic Park. The nearly three-hour meeting Tuesday night at Summerfield Elementary School ended shortly after Dunham said to Walker, “I’m so tired of your lies.” The council approved by a vote of 4-1 the agenda for its strategic planning retreat Friday, Jan. 25, and Saturday, Jan. 26, at the offices of the Piedmont Triad Regional Council in Kernersville. A year ago, the council’s annual retreat at Summerfield Farms was abruptly cancelled only 41 minutes after its scheduled start. Dunham, Rotruck and

NEWS in brief

council member Teresa Pegram, who had taken office a month and a half earlier, objected to the proposed agenda that Whitaker had prepared after Dunham had developed an agenda of her own for the meeting. At Tuesday’s meeting, Dunham said she opposed the council’s plans for dinner on the evening of Jan. 25. “You can say they’re not going to discuss town business” she said, “but I do not personally want to attend a town meeting if the public does not have easy access to it.” Pegram voted against the meeting agenda, saying her work schedule wouldn’t allow her to arrive for the start of Friday’s activities at 4:30 p.m. “I don’t understand why she can’t flex her schedule,” said O’Day. Serving his first term, Walker said, “I learned pretty quickly that this role takes some sacrifice.” “I don’t want to hear about sacrifice,” Pegram said.

Speed limit drops to 35 mph on N.C. 68 in Oak Ridge

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

The speed limit on a nearly milelong stretch of N.C. 68 through Oak Ridge’s commercial district has dropped to 35 miles per hour, after the North Carolina Department of Trans-

portation (NC DOT) approved the Town Council’s request to reduce the speed limit from 45 mph.

...continued on p. 21

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...continued from p. 2 can check the town’s website for details about the rezoning case, he said. A public hearing for a rezoning case was scheduled for the council’s Jan. 3 meeting, but the council voted to delay the hearing because the P&Z Board had not yet heard the case. Planning Director Sean Taylor explained Paul Milam, the property’s developer, had asked the P&Z Board in December to delay hearing the case to allow more time to address concerns of nearby residents. The rezoning request is for nearly 30 acres on N.C. 68 south of Fogleman Road to be rezoned to TC-R (Town Core-Residential). The developer hopes to construct 48 townhouses and one single-family home on the property. At the council’s meeting in December, Mike Stone, president of the Old Mill Homesteads Homeowners’ Association, had asked the council for help to delay the P&Z Board’s hearing of the

case on Dec. 20. Scheduling the hearing only five days before Christmas put “an undue burden” upon homeowners to prepare their opposition to the rezoning, Stone told the council. In response, Mayor Sullivan suggested to Stone, a former town council member, that he contact P&Z Board members directly to express his views, saying it would be inappropriate for the council to advise the board on rezoning issues. Stone spoke again at the council’s Jan. 3 meeting. He cited a Dec. 28 article in the Rhino Times, an online newspaper in Greensboro, which quoted council member George McClellan saying that a public hearing for the N.C. 68 rezoning request would be held in February. Stone asked Sullivan whether he planned to “publicly admonish” McClellan, as Stone said he himself had felt admonished during last month’s council meeting. “Mr. Mayor, I was admonished for asking the Town Council to step in,”

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“I’m not really expecting a response; I’m just curious,” Stone said. The mayor thanked Stone, but gave no response. Telling the Rhino Times that a public hearing was planned was “just a statement of fact,” not an effort to interject himself in the P&Z Board’s hearing of the case, McClellan said later in the meeting. “I certainly don’t plan to start making decisions before I hear the case, because I’m constitutionally obligated to keep an open mind,” he said. Stone’s request for the council’s help last month was at least partially responsible for sparking conversation among council members, who asked Town Manager Bruce to outline requirements for notifying residents about public hearings on rezoning cases. In a memo to council members last week, Bruce explained that North Carolina law dictates three methods of public notifications required for public hearings by the Town Council: legal advertisements in a local newspaper, the mailing of letters to property owners adjacent to the property up for rezoning, and the placement of signs on or near the property giving notice of public hearings.

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Stone said. “In order to consistently apply your position, are you prepared to just as publicly admonish a town council member for interjecting himself into an upcoming zoning case – a specific zoning case – with the apparent intent to influence the Planning and Zoning Board?

Oak Ridge’s development ordinance also requires similar notification for P&Z Board public hearings, even though that step isn’t required by state statutes, Bruce said. The law requires that letters be mailed to property owners at least 10 days but not more than 25 days before the date of the council’s public hearing. Bruce suggested letters be mailed to property owners three weeks before public hearings, giving residents earlier notice to prepare their responses to rezoning requests.

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Bruce also recommended mailing an additional round of letters, earlier than the one required by state law to give property owners an informal heads-up about upcoming rezoning hearings. The council also agreed to post on the town’s website notifications of public hearings as well as a notice in the Northwest Observer. To give the town’s staff time to review rezoning applications, property owners and developers would be required to submit their applications five weeks before P&Z Board hearings, as opposed to the current requirement of four weeks, Bruce said. Before finalizing all of the notification changes, the council decided to hold public hearings to seek comments from residents since some of the changes require amending the town’s development ordinance. It set Feb. 28 as the date for the public hearing at the P&Z Board meeting and March 7 for the town council’s public hearing.

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OAK RIDGE town council

Jan. 3 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by CHRIS BURRITT Mayor Spencer Sullivan called the monthly meeting to order, with Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman and council members Ann Schneider, George McClellan and Doug Nodine present.

Anders advised residents to clean lint from their clothes dryer filters and hoses to minimize the risk of fire, and then said, “We did not have any Christmas tree fires this year.”

The opening prayer was offered by Rev. Alan Mears, pastor of Bethel United Methodist Church, and followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting agenda and Dec. 6 meeting minutes were approved.

PUBLIC HEARING

REPORTS Sheriff’s Office. Jeremy Fuller, first lieutenant and assistant commander of the sheriff’s District 1 office, reported the office received 87 calls for service in Oak Ridge last month. Of those, two were thefts from motor vehicles, one was a burglary of the Clouds Tobacco shop on N.C. 68 and another was a shoplifting incident. Referencing some recent car break-ins at Oak Ridge Town Park, Fuller urged motorists to always lock doors and remove valuables from their vehicles, whether parked at home or elsewhere. Fire Department. Assistant Chief Sam Anders reported the Oak Ridge Fire Department had “a very busy December” due to heavy rain and snow; of the 80 calls the department responded to, 56 were fire/servicerelated. In 2018, the department responded to 849 calls, a 9-percent increase over the previous year. Of those calls, 119 were fire/service-related and involved assisting with fallen trees and flooded roads, Anders said. Firefighters obtained 177 hours of training in December and a total of 2,898 hours in 2018.

The council postponed a scheduled public hearing for a rezoning case for nearly 30 acres on N.C. 68 south of Fogleman Road. The applicant plans up to 48 townhouses on the property and a single-family house. The hearing will be placed on the Feb. 7 monthly meeting agenda. (See related article on p. 2.)

MANAGER’S REPORT Strategic plan implementation. At the request of Town Manager Bill Bruce, the council adopted the schedule for implementing the town’s strategic plan which was adopted in December; the plans sets goals for the next five to 10 years in four areas: recreation, growth and development, infrastructure and preservation. Starting this month, town leaders will review and make any necessary revisions to the Parks and Recreation Commission’s bylaws, mission and structure. Town leaders are also seeking federal MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization) funding to help make the town’s commercial district more pedestrian-friendly. Staff plans to work with state highway and Duke Energy officials to analyze the feasibility of burying utility lines at the N.C. 68 and 150 intersection and along N.C. 68. Sullivan said funding of strategic planning projects would be discussed Thursday, Jan. 10, when the council

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NEXT MEETING Thursday, Feb. 7 • 7pm Oak Ridge Town Hall

CONTACT YOUR TOWN (336) 644-7009 ssmith@oakridgenc.com www.oakridgenc.com

holds its first workshop for capital improvement expenditures to include in the budget for the 2019-20 fiscal year, which begins July 1. The 2 p.m. workshop at Town Hall is open to the public.

Speed limit reduction. Having received approval from the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the council voted to approve two HOA’s requests to reduce the speed limit from 35 mph to 25 mph on six streets in the Ashton Park and Oak Ridge Lake subdivisions. Rezoning request notifications. The council voted in favor of staff recommendations to improve the process for notifying residents about property rezoning requests. (See related article on p. 2.) Board reappointment. Ed Treacy was reappointed as an alternate on the Planning and Zoning Board. Voluntary annexations. Bruce reported that so far 11 applications for voluntary annexation into the town have been received.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Oak Ridge Youth Association. Van Tanner, newly appointed as the association’s community relations director, and Tom Collins, its new president, said a growing number of youth participants and adult volunteers have made the association an increasingly valuable service to the community. “Not only do we service the com-

munity, (the association) has become a draw for the community,” Tanner said. He asked that ORYA be added to the list of community organizations which are on the agenda to speak at the council’s monthly meetings, which Sullivan agreed to. Collins provided a rundown of youth participants and adult volunteers: soccer (396 participants, 65 volunteers); basketball (294 and 52), baseball (78 and 14), lacrosse (95 and over 12), football (117 and 41) and girls’ softball (23 and 5). The association has added three programs: teen leadership, flag football and e-sports, or competitive video gaming, Collins said.

“Admonished” homeowner. Mike Stone, a former town council member and president of the Old Mill Homesteads Homeowners’ Association, said he had felt “admonished” at the council’s December meeting after he asked the council to help delay the Planning and Zoning Board’s hearing of a rezoning request. (See related article on p. 2.)

FINANCE REPORT

Finance Officer Sam Anders gave an overview of last month’s financial activity, noting the town collected revenues of $117,344.88; of that, $22,766.53 was in property tax and $18,654.40 in sales tax. In response to Mayor Pro Tem Kinneman’s recent suggestion that the town begin accepting online payments, Anders said staff is evaluating how the town can start accepting debit and credit card payments for activities such as renting facilities at Town Park.

COMMUNITY UPDATES Special Events. Committee Chair

Patti Dmuchowski reported that a dinner honoring volunteers in the town over the past 20 years has drawn 102 RSVPs from a total of 131 invitations mailed. The dinner is scheduled for this Saturday, Jan. 12, at Oak Ridge Military Academy.

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Planning and Zoning. Vice Chair Bobbi Baker said the town’s signs announcing upcoming public hearings for rezoning requests are small and hard for passing motorists to read. During public comments, Jason Streck, an alternate on the board, echoed Baker’s concern about the signage. (See related article on p. 2.)

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Mayor Sullivan concurred that motorists driving 45 mph “can’t read any verbiage” on the signs and said he had asked Planning Director Sean Taylor to look into options to improve the signage.

Royal said volunteers have almost completed the first section of the trail, running 650 yards from Haw River Road to Cascades Preserve, a park owned by Guilford County.

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THURSDAY, JAN. 10

 Town Council Meeting | Stokesdale Town Council

will meet Jan. 10, 7 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. More info: stokesdale.org.

of the MST. It will also allow a longer portion of the MST to shift off of a dangerous section of Goodwill Church Road, along trails in a beautiful section of the Cascades Preserve. More info: • Trail work location: https://goo.gl/maps/JLfsZKKAeHm • General MST info: https://mountainstoseatrail.org/ • Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Oak-RidgeMountains-to-Sea-Trail-Committee-2121679621384552/

SATURDAY, JAN. 12

MONDAY, JAN. 14

Jan. 12, 8 a.m. at Oak Ridge Town Park, 6231 Lisa Drive, Oak Ridge. Learn about a current health topic, then enjoy a healthy walk and conversation with a doctor. More info: walkoakridgenc@gmail.com.

nity Choir will resume its Monday morning practices Jan. 14, 9:30 a.m. at Gideon Grove United Methodist Church, 2865 Gideon Grove Church Road, Stokesdale. All are welcome to participate. More info: skbeene@gmail.com or (336) 453-8017.

 Free Community Walk | “Walk with a Doc” will meet

 Trail Workday | Oak Ridge Mountains-to-Sea Trail Committee is seeking volunteers on Jan. 12, 9 a.m. to noon, to help with final clean-up of a .4-mile section that connects the Falling Waters Trail in Cascades Preserve (a Guilford County park) to Haw River Road, just north of River Gate Court in Oak Ridge. Once complete, this trail section will become part

 Community Choir Practice | Stokesdale Commu-

TUESDAY, JAN. 15  Kiwanis Club | The Kiwanis Club of Northwest Guilford will meet Jan. 15, 12 p.m. at Bill’s Pizza, 1431 N.C. 68, Oak Ridge. More info: (336) 382-8629.  MST Committee | Oak Ridge Mountains-to-Sea Trail Committee will meet Jan. 15, 6 p.m. at Oak

Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road. More info: oakridgenc.com.  Special Called Meeting | The Town of Sum-

merfield will hold a special called meeting Jan. 15, 6:30 p.m. at Summerfield Town Hall, 4117 Oak Ridge Road, Summerfield, for a presentation by WithersRavenel on the Oak Ridge Road/Summerfield Road intersection beautification and improvement project; other town business may also be on the meeting agenda. For an updated meeting agenda or other info: summerfieldnc.gov.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 16  Community Blood Drive | Community Blood Cen-

ter of the Carolinas will hold a blood drive Jan. 16, 12 p.m. at Guilford College, 5800 W. Friendly Ave., Greensboro. More info or to make an appointment: (888) 59-BLOOD or visit www.cbcc.us.  Historic Preservation Commission | Oak Ridge

Historic Preservation Commission will meet Jan. 16, 7 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road. More info: oakridgenc.com.

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Paige Friddle sent this photo of Eisis, her daughter Kayden’s cat, napping in “his” chair.

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January 2019 a monthly feature of the Northwest Observer Photo courtesy of Lynn Jordan

Clint Jordan shared this picture of himself and his dog Harley, a 2-year-old Aussie/pit bull mix.



Emmy McHone shared this picture she took last month of Rosie, her 4-year-old German shepherd mix, getting into the Christmas spirit.



Kimberly Thacker of Stokesdale shared a photo of her dog, MoJo; he is 9 years old and “so loving!” she said, adding, “Very spoiled!”



Send your pet/animal photos to photos@nwobserver.com

Thanks to the advertisers who made this section possible



We love your photos, and so do our readers

Shirley Cheek of Oak Ridge sent this photo of her white Labrador puppy, Magnolia (8 weeks old), and Magnolia’s friend Summer, an 11-year-old greyhound mix. Magnolia and Summer “get along great and love each other very much!” Cheek wrote.

� � � �� & Ch��still

nosing

around

In nose work, whether we win or lose, I always get to go home with the best dog

source within certain time constraints. The handler’s job is to identify when the dog has located that source.

by ANNETTE JOYCE It’s hard to believe that my happygo-lucky Charlie turned 7 years old just a few months ago. To me, he’s still that lovable little black ball of fur that we brought home on Thanksgiving weekend. Although now fully grown, his personality hasn’t changed and he’s still more puppy than adult dog. Something else that hasn’t changed is his love of nose work, a relatively simple sport in which dogs search for specific odors – birch, anise and clove – with the goal being to find the hidden

In nose work, dogs and their handlers compete in and move through five different levels – NW1, NW2, NW3, Elite and the newly introduced Summit League – each progressively more challenging. Charlie and I have been training together for about four years now. Although he is an excellent nose work dog, often Charlie’s handler (that’s me) doesn’t quite live up to his expectations. As a result, we spent a lot of time “nosing around” at the entry level. After seven attempts, we finally obtained our NW1 title and moved on to NW2. Happily, we breezed through that level Charlie and me, showing off our ﬁrst NW3 title. on the first try.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

We’re now at NW3, which ups the intensity of the trial quite a bit, at least for me. I think Charlie actually enjoys it even more.

all the hides. He just kept going back to the same hide over and over until I finally figured it out.

There are some similarities between the first three levels. Each has a time limit and requires a team to search the same elements – containers, exteriors, vehicles and interiors – but the number of rooms in interiors increases from one to three for the NW3 level.

Since then, we’ve been through a few more trials, including one that took place last month at a Boy Scout camp in nearby Yanceyville.

Still, that’s been our best day ever.

In NW3, I’ve found the biggest challenge is that handlers are no longer given the benefit of knowing how many hides are in an area. There could be anywhere from one to three hides and in interiors one of the rooms could even be blank (free of any hidden odor). It’s up to handlers to determine when their dog has found all the hides and call “finish.” Another challenge is that in order to advance to Elite, the next level of competition, teams must successfully navigate through three different NW3 trials. Because there are so many competitors, getting into a NW3 trial is not easy – especially if you’re not willing to travel more than an hour or two. We’ve been lucky enough to make it into several NW3 competitions and have managed to obtain one NW3 title. When we got that first NW3 title at Camp Carefree in Stokesdale, it was magical. During the trial, I was able to read Charlie like a book – even though I had to read a few of the pages several times in the exterior search before I was able to comprehend that he had found

While Yanceyville was the opposite of our most successful trial, it was still somehow fun, even in the cold rain. We did a great job in containers and though we missed one of the rooms in interiors, it was a great learning experience for me. The room I missed had no hides. Charlie was running back and forth between two bunk beds acting crazy and even tried to leave the room. Unable to believe there wasn’t a hide, I kept encouraging him to work and called something that wasn’t there. This was our first trial experience with a blank room. I’ll definitely be more trusting of him next time. While we didn’t do well in the next two elements, Charlie had a blast and was completely worn out on the way home. In fact, he was sleeping so hard in his crate that I pulled over to make sure he was still alive. One of the judges had put everything into perspective early that morning during the introductions. He said that while we as competitors might not walk away with a title that day, one thing was for sure, “we’d all be going home with the best dog.” At the end of the day, the best dog was conked out in the back of my car, probably dreaming of his next search.

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Pet BRIEFS

Red Dog Farm seeks new place to call home Since it was founded 13 years ago, Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network has rescued nearly 3,000 animals in a wide range of species and sizes. Now, the organization is seeing a new place to call home and is asking for the community’s help in finding the perfect location. “What we need is an intake facility for our large animals,” Lauren Riehle, the organization’s executive director, told the Northwest Observer recently. “We’re very fortunate that a number of folks in our area foster animals for us – and that is crucial to our organization. But we really function most efficiently when we have a core spot for the animals to come in and then send them to their foster home.” Riehle stresses that RDF is not meant to be a sanctuary, rather an intake space. The program works best when there is a “center to the wheel and then spokes to the foster homes that we send the animals out to,” Riehle said. “That enables us to double our ability, because we’re not tying up that foster home as an intake facility. RDF’s large animal coordinator has

their own farm, which has been used as an intake space, but that’s not a sustainable long-term solution, Riehle explained. “To make our long-term dream become a reality we need the public’s help,” she said. “The staff at Bur-Mil (where the administrative offices for RDF have been housed for the past 10 years) has been wonderful and kind to us and helpful. I wish I could figure out a way to stay here, with all the perks that being in this park has afforded us. “Now we realize this is how this works best. We really need our own farm to call home,” she continued. “And we need the community’s help to make that happen, whether it’s a donation of funds or donation of a farm. •••••

want to help? Visit www.reddogfarm.com for more information about fostering animals, making a donation, or volunteering. And be sure to check out the News & Events tab for details on the organization’s upcoming fundraiser, Whiskey for Whiskers, on Jan. 13.

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Karen Nasisse, DVM

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

JAN. 10 - 16, 2019

Pet Adoptions

GET A LIFE…

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BEE Bee, a 7-month-old female domestic shorthair cat, and her sister, Honey, are looking for their forever homes. They can be a little shy to start with, but quickly warm up and want to play. Bee is a snuggle-bug, too. These girls love each other but do not need to be adopted together. You can visit them at Crooked Tail Cat Cafe or apply online at www.reddogfarm.com.

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Jackson, a 9-year-old male Labrador retriever, is a big, goofy boy. He prefers to spend more time outdoors than inside, he loves all people, gets along well with other active dogs and is okay with some cats. Jackson was pulled from a local shelter and was heartworm positive, along with a few tickborne diseases. He also had a rather large (but luckily, benign) mass removed. Jackson has fully recovered from surgery and is ready for his new “leash on life” and to ﬁnd his forever family. Learn more or apply online at www.reddogfarm.com.

For more info or to apply to adopt Bee, Jackson or other animals in need of loving homes, visit www.reddogfarm.com

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a sweet male blue domestic shorthair, is just over a year old, and he promises, “I will be a wonderful accompaniment to your barbourwilliams.com morning coffee – and I won’t break your New Year’s diet resolutions, because I am sugar-free!” Please come by and visit Dunkin, ID#A011438. It is ﬁrst-come, ﬁrst-served – so come by soon!

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PRADA This polished pooch is aptly named Prada, and she is always fashionably attired (“Accessories make the outﬁt” is her motto) and ready to go out with you. About 4 years old, Prada is a spayed blue and brown brindle pit bull terrier. She loves to binge-watch ﬁlms starring Meryl Streep, her favorite being (you guessed it!) “The Devil Wears Prada.” Ask for this runway-worthy lady by ID#A009312.

Guilford County Animal Shelter

Tracy Williams, attorney

Tracy Williams, 4525 W. Wendover Ave.,attorney Greensboro • Mon-Sat 12-6pm (closed Tues), Sun 1-5pm To check animals’ availability, call (336) 641-3400 or visit

www.guilfordcountync.gov/our-county/animal-services/animal-shelter

JAN. 10 - 16, 2019

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

...to the following new

advertisers who have recently joined us: Strive Performance & Fitness Triad Insurance Partners Inc. Wake Forest Baptist Health - Summerfield

Clouds Tobacco Jeremiah & Maggie Hawes, Berkshire Hathaway - Yost & Little Murphy Wainer Orthopedic Specialists

...and to these advertisers who have renewed their partnership with us: Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital Borden Dentistry Builders MD By the Book Accounting Eanes Heating & Air Forbis & Dick Stokesdale Gladwell Insurance Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Select (formerly New Garden Select) New Garden Landscaping & Nursery Northwest Animal Hospital

| | | | | | | | | |

since 2008 since 2010 since 2009 since 2014 since 2018 since 2008 since 2008 since 2016 since 2003 since 2003

Oak Ridge United Methodist Church Old School Home Repair Piedmont Truck Tires, Inc. Ramilya Siegel, Keller Williams Rymack Storage Stokesdale Family Pharmacy Stokesdale Storage The Law Office of Susan P. Greeson Vestal Buick GMC, Inc. YMCA of Greensboro

| | | | | | | | | |

since 2002 since 2008 since 2013 since 2010 since 2017 since 2018 since 2007 since 2016 since 2011 since 2009

...and welcome back:

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Yoga for dudes – grunts, groans and Downward-Facing Dog

A small group of men gather one morning a week in Oak Ridge for yoga. Among the beneﬁts they receive for their efforts are ﬂexibility, strength and a few laughs. by CHRIS BURRITT OAK RIDGE – In the dim light, yoga instructor Caity MacLaren gives instructions over the soft music. “Look at your toes and wiggle them,” she said. “Hug your knees into your chest.” “Make your way to Downward Dog.”

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

Randy Floss (front, left), Mickey Tingen (front, right), and Jim Royals (background) enjoy the added ﬂexibility, strength and balance they are gaining by participating in yoga class on Tuesday mornings.

“I feel like a dog,” quipped Randy Floss, contorting his 64-year-old body the best he can as he’s perched on top of a pink

A LITTLE ICE NEVER STOPS US.

mat. He gets a laugh from Jim Royals and Mickey Tingen, fellow members of a small group that has dubbed itself “Brozilla Yoga for Dudes.” The group started in June with five members, meeting at 8 o’clock most Tuesday mornings. On this morning, about one week before Christmas, three of the “Dudes” showed up for the hour-long class at Destination Arts, a performing arts center for children in the Oak Ridge Commons shopping center. The banter among the guys is G-rated, with an occasional PG-rated jab at one another. The music is mostly ‘70s soft rock by musicians from Cat Stevens to Van Morrison to James Taylor.

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“We’re going to get mani-pedis after this,” joked Tingen, who turned 50 this year. Seriously, he said, “we would welcome anybody who wants to get up off the couch and get introduced to an alternative way of exercising.” The charter members are anxious to spread the word about their group

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

in hopes of getting other guys to join them. No yoga experience is required, just the willingness to stretch, bend and twist their limbs in yoga poses with names like Humble Warrior, Waterfall and Chaturanga. Participants bring their own mats and pay $15 a class. Guilt motivated the men to give yoga a try last spring. On most mornings, they meet at Bistro 150 in Oak Ridge Commons for coffee, food and camaraderie. Next door, women were practicing yoga. “We saw the women doing yoga while we were being sedentary and eating every morning,” said Van Tanner, 63. That’s when the men around the table decided to start a class. “You’ve got guys our age who aren’t going to go to a yoga class with younger women,” Tanner said. “We call this a ‘no-judgment zone.’ You come and do the best that you can.” The men said they’ve gained flexibility, balance, stamina and strength from yoga, along with an appreciation for the importance of syncing their

breathing with exercises. “When you get in your upper 50s, you don’t step quite as high and reach quite as far,” Tanner said. Added Royals, 58: “To be limber and flexible is a wonderful feeling.” Floss has a bad knee, so he’s limited in the poses he can perform. Early in this week’s class, he called out, “I’ve got a cramp.” “Drink more water and less wine,” said MacLaren, joking with her students as she helps them with poses. She urged them to focus on the moment. “Just be right here – nothing to do, nowhere to go, nothing to say,” she said. “Remember why you love yoga and why you come every week.”

want to give it a try? “Dudes” of all ages and fitness levels are welcome. Contact Randy Floss at rfloss@aol.com for more information.

Local artist releases ﬁrst album Brian Ford debuts with Christmas album article courtesy of LAURIE FORD The Northwest Observer apologizes that we weren’t able to fit this article into our last issue of the year, but the timing of its receipt in midDecember and available space in our Dec. 20 issue, our last one before a two-week holiday break from print, didn’t coincide. Although the Christmas season is behind us, we hope you’ll check out this local resident’s debut album and let it help you get in the spirit for Christmas 2019! Summerfield vocal talent, Brian Ford, released his debut album on Dec. 7, A Ford Family Christmas. The album features nine tracks consisting of traditional and contemporary Christmas classics, including “O Holy

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Night,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and Ford’s personal favorite, “Mary Did You Know.”

Musical talent appears to run in the family, as Ford collaborated with cousin Tori Ford, also a native of Summerfield, who is featured as a solo artist as well a duet partner. After months of recording at a local recording studio, Axcess Records, which is owned and operated by Eric Stevens, the album’s vocal and production team is proud of what they believe is a heartwarming compilation of holiday solos and duets. “Working with Brian on this record was amazing. It’s rare for an artist be so involved in their first release. He was never hesitant to try new ideas on these classic Christmas songs. I’m excited to continue working with him as we begin writing together for his next project,” Stevens said. “I had no idea how much work goes into producing one song, much less an entire album,” said Ford after having invested three months and hundreds of hours to record and assist in editing what he believes is first-rate, quality music. Thrilled with the finished product and the early

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Album cover photo courtesy of Brian Ford

response to the release, the collaboration between Ford and Stevens will continue as they commence production on an album featuring original songs scheduled to be released Summer 2019. Ford, a graduate of UNC Greensboro, is employed full-time as a regional project manager for a land development business based out of Summerfield. He is also the assistant coach for the Division 1 men’s tennis team at UNCG. Of his life and passion, Ford said, “I live a full and very blessed life and hope to be in a position to pursue my music career. It brings me so much joy. I am grateful to Eric Stevens for his unselfish and tireless efforts to make this album a success.” A Ford Family Christmas is available for download on iTunes, Pandora, Spotify, Google Play, SoundCloud, Amazon Music and several more sites.

JAN. 10 - 16, 2019

Evening or weekend injury?

CRIME / INCIDENT report Guilford County Sheriff’s Office, District 1 has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest Guilford County.

ASSAULT

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JAN. 1 | A person in the 7000 block of Shadyside Drive in Summerfield reported a known suspect assaulted him around 3:25 a.m. The victim was advised of his right to take out a warrant on the suspect. JAN. 6 | A person in the 7000 block of Toscana Trace in Summerfield reported a known suspect grabbed her by the arm and pushed her. No medical treatment was required. The victim was advised on how to obtain warrants and a 50b (protective order).

BURGLARY DEC. 24 | The owner of Clouds Tobacco at 1692 N.C. 68 N. in Oak Ridge reported that around 7:17 a.m. an unknown suspect pried open the back door of the business and crawled inside. Although the alarm was activated, the suspect was able to get away with numerous cigarettes and cash from the cash register. Total estimated value of the stolen items is $7,720. DEC. 24 | An employee of the Garden Outlet at 5124 U.S. 220 in Summerfield reported that sometime between Dec. 22 and Dec. 24 an unknown person(s) pried open the door of a storage building and stole landscaping tools valued at $1,340. DEC. 25 | A person in the 8000 block of Shoeline Road in Stokesdale reported that sometime between 11 a.m. Dec. 24 and 10:46 a.m. on Dec. 25 an unknown suspect(s) kicked in the door of a residence and stole about $600 in loose change from a glass jar.

SHOPLIFTING DEC. 30 | An employee of Dollar General at 4535 U.S. 220 N. in Sum-

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

merfield reported that around 4 p.m. two known suspects concealed and stole six beers with an estimated value of $15. JAN. 4 | An employee of Dollar General at 4535 U.S. 220 N. in Summerfield reported that an unknown suspect stole multiple childcare items with an estimated value of $20.50.

THEFT JAN. 4 | An employee of Lamination Services Inc. of 6919 U.S. 158 in Stokesdale reported that sometime between Dec. 21 and Jan. 3, property was stolen from a building.

ARRESTS/CITATIONS DEC. 21 | A 23-year-old male was arrested at 11:06 p.m. in the 5300 block of U.S. 220 N. in Summerfield for an outstanding warrant from another agency. DEC. 22 | A 41-year-old female was cited at 4:51 a.m. near the intersection of N.C. 68/Market Place Drive in Oak Ridge for driving 15 mph over the speed limit. DEC. 22 | A 60-year-old male was cited at 5:14 a.m. near the intersection of N.C. 68/Market Place Drive in Oak Ridge for driving 15 mph over the speed limit. DEC. 22 | A 40-year-old male was cited at 5:53 a.m. near the intersection of Oak Ridge Road/Market Place Drive in Oak Ridge for driving 15 mph over the speed limit. JAN. 2 | A 27-year-old male was arrested at 1:57 p.m. in the 6200 block of Lake Brandt Road in Summerfield for two out of county order for arrests (OFA) and cited for driving with a restricted license.

JAN. 2 | A 57-year-old female was arrested at 3:04 p.m. in the 6800 block of Fegan Road in Summerfield for failure to appear in court on a misdemeanor charge. JAN. 2 | A 58-year-old female was cited at 9:02 a.m. in the 5500 block of U.S. 220 N. in Summerfield for driving with a restricted license. JAN. 2 | A 30-year-old female was cited at 11:35 p.m. near the intersection of N.C. 68/N.C. 65 in Stokesdale for driving with a restricted license. JAN. 2 | A 59-year-old male was cited at 1:26 a.m. near the intersection of U.S. 220/Joseph Hoskins Road in Summerfield for driving with a restricted license, improper use of license plates on a vehicle and having a fictitious or altered title/registration/tag. JAN. 2 | A 35-year-old male was cited at 9:24 p.m. near the intersection of 220 N./Auburn Road in Summerfield for driving with a restricted license. JAN. 2 | A 25-year-old male was cited at 4:12 p.m. in the 1000 block of N.C. 150 W. in Summerfield for driving with a restricted license.

JAN. 3 | A 45-year-old female was cited at 10:43 a.m. near the intersection of U.S. 158/N.C. 68 N. in Stokesdale for driving with a restricted license. JAN. 3 | A 27-year-old female was cited at 10:49 a.m. near the intersection of U.S. 158/N.C. 68 N. in Stokesdale for allowing an unauthorized person to operate a vehicle. JAN. 3 | A 38-year-old female was cited at 6:42 a.m. near the intersection of Pleasant Ridge Road/Summerfield Road in Summerfield for speeding. JAN. 7 | A 24-year-old male was cited at 12:44 p.m. near the intersection of U.S. 158/N.C. 68 N. in Stokesdale for driving with an expired inspection certificate.

District 1 Sheriff’s Office

7506 Summerfield Road Main number: (336) 641-2300 Report non-emergency crime-related incidents by calling:

NEWS IN BRIEF ...continued from p. 5

State highway workers posted new speed limit signs in late December on N.C. 68 near its juncture with Fogleman Road, south of the N.C. 68/150 intersection, to near Meadows Road north of the intersection. The speed limit on N.C. 68 at either end of the stretch remains 50 mph. The Town Council voted in October to approve an ordinance repealing the 45-mph speed limit as part of its efforts to slow traffic down in the commercial district around Oak Ridge’s busiest intersection. State highway officials are also evaluating road improvements, including construction of roundabouts, to ease congestion on N.C. 68 and 150 and improve safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. Oak Ridge officials plan no special

steps, such as temporary signs, to advise motorists of the 35-mph speed limit since signs posted by NCDOT alert drivers to the new limit, Town Manager Bill Bruce said.

As for ticketing of speeders, Bruce said in an email earlier this week that “we have not asked the Highway Patrol or the sheriff’s office to focus on this area yet. We are allowing drivers some time to get accustomed to the new speed limit, but will request enforcement if speeds continue to be an issue.”

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JAN. 10 - 16, 2019

Student profiles brought to you this week by:

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olmstedorthodontics.com STUDENT PROFILES Thanks to the coaches and teachers at Northern and Northwest High Schools for their student recommendations and input, which make it possible to recognize these talented, dedicated students for their accomplishments in academics, athletics and cultural arts.

NORTHWEST GUILFORD Cayla King, varsity girls basketball by STEWART MCCLINTOCK Senior Cayla King is a captain on the Lady Vikings basketball team and has been a leader for Coach Darlene Joyner in the point guard position for all four years she has played at Northwest. The past three years the Lady

Vikings have played for three state championships, and won back-toback titles in 2017 and 2018. King has played a big part in that success and her talent led to a commitment prior to her junior year to play Division 1 basketball at Virginia Tech. She was named First Team HSXtra. com All-Area after her freshman and sophomore seasons. For her role in the team winning the 4-A state championship in her sophomore year, she was named Most Outstanding player of the championship game. She was also named 2nd Team All-State her sophomore year by the N.C. Basketball Coaches Association. When asked about her team’s shot

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at another state championship, King responded, “We always plan to make it back to the state championship, even though it’s not guaranteed – we expect it of ourselves. It’s a different team this year; we lost some seniors, but we will develop and be back fighting for another title.”

careers at Virginia Tech. She plans to concentrate her studies in biology and take pre-med classes.

Of her coach, who was named 2018 Associated Press Coach of the Year, King said, “We all love her – she’s a great coach, she expects a lot of us, and we try our best to give that to her.”

Q: Favorite genre of music?

King gives as much of herself off the court as she does on it. She takes AP classes and makes straight A’s, marks that have earned her Academic All-Conference every year so far. She has also volunteered with Out of The Garden Project and with Summerfield Farms. King will travel to Blacksburg next fall, where she and fellow teammate Liz Kitley will continue their basketball

On a side note … Q: What is your favorite classroom subject? A: “Math.” A: “Pop.” Q: Do you have a role model? A: “WNBA basketball player Mia Moore. I watched her throughout college. She runs a lot of kids’ camps, she’s a good person, and a great player.” Q: If you could interview one person, living or dead, who would it be? A: “Magic Johnson. I like how he played, he was a really good point guard, a great passer and very entertaining.” Q: How do you enjoy spending your free time?

Contact the Northwest Observer for details on how to become a sponsor for our Student Profiles section!

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A: “Just hanging out, going to movies, shopping, going to the park and walking my dog.” Q: Where would you go on a dream vacation? A: “Italy. We are going there next year as members of Virginia Tech’s women’s basketball team. The beaches and architecture are so pretty, and I will love learning about the history.” Q: What is one thing we all could do to make the world a better place? A: “Give more to others in need.” Q: What is one thing not everyone knows about you? A: “I like to draw.” Q: Is there anything else about you that you’re willing to share with our readers? A: “I have a dog, Marley, and she’s a shepherd/husky mix. I got her after I tore my ACL (last season). She’s so comforting, and adds so much energy to our house. My whole family loves her.”

NORTHERN GUILFORD Amaya English, indoor track and tennis by STEWART MCCLINTOCK Junior Amaya English has been a member of Coach Thanh Ngo’s indoor track team at Northern Guilford all three years of high school. She focuses on the 55-meter hurdles, the triple jump and sometimes runs the 55-meter sprint and the 300-meter for the Nighthawks. This past summer English was honored to be invited by Australiabased Down Under Sports to compete in the triple jump, the 100-meter and

300-meter hurdles, where she won the 100 and 300 hurdle events. The trip Down Under allowed Amaya to not only compete, but to explore Australia. “I got to get out and see kangaroos in the fields, hold koala bears and explore the Great Barrier Reef,” she said. “We also went to see the Sydney Opera House. It was such a fun and exciting experience and I’m so grateful to have been able to travel to such an interesting place.” Off the track, English maintains high grades, and is proud to have been awarded the Spirit of Excellence award and the Student of the Month award by her teachers. She volunteers regularly at her church and in the summer she enjoys spending time at church camp and helping younger children learn to read. English has also been an active Girl Scout and has helped collect clothes and food for those in need.

Q: What is an invention the world needs?

iPhones in it, a fidget spinner and my favorite snack, Doritos!”

A: “A better dishwasher!”

Q: Do you play any other sports at Northern?

Q: How do you enjoy spending your free time? A: “Reading, and writing poems.” Q: If you left behind a time capsule for people to find 100 years from now, what would you put in it? A: “I would put several generations of

A: “I’m also on the tennis team.” Q: Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers? A: “Never give up, and always chase your dreams, even though it seems you may not reach them.”

Who will be the voice for these children? Over 250 children in Guilford County will go to court alone. Learn how to be an advocate for an abused or neglected child by becoming a Guardian Ad Litem.

After graduating high school, English already knows she wants to study psychology and pursue a career in mental health. She also hopes to continue running track in college.

On a side note... Q: Do you have a favorite book? A: “‘Are You There God?’ by Judy Blume. Also, ‘The Hate U Give’ by Angie Thomas.” Q: Favorite musical genre? A: “R&B.” Q: What is one thing we all could do to make the world a better place? A: “Raise awareness for mental health.” Q: Do you have a role model? A: “My parents. They give a good example of how people should raise their family, and what a good person looks like.”

(336) 412-7580 | volunteerforgal.org

Q: Favorite professional athlete? A: ”Olympic sprinter Jackie JoynerKersee.”

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JAN. 10 - 16, 2019

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GRINS and GRIPES

Delighted or dismayed by something in your community? Share your thoughts in words or less

online: nwobserver.com e-mail: grinsandgripes@nwobserver.com Grins & Gripes are published based on available space and editor’s discretion.

GRINS to...  Tim Cowder, owner of Mighty Mouse Services, for working well into the night plowing the snow from our business parking lot last month so that we could re-open for business. We greatly appreciate your help, Tim!  The nice young man who bought my daughter three cookies at Subway in Oak Ridge the week before Christmas. Your kind gesture was appreciated and will be paid forward.

merfield for servicing my classic ‘63 C-10 truck and keeping it inside during the December snow. You’ve earned my business!  Carson Lee Overby’s family and friends for decorating the Adopt-AHighway signs on N.C. 68. Thoughts and prayers are with you all each time I pass your decorated signs. Thank you for spreading goodness after your tragic loss.

 Jared from Subway in Stokesdale for watching my kids.

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 New York China in Stokesdale for shaming people who are shameless deadbeats. Order a specific bespoke product from a small business, and you are expected to pay for it. Didn’t your mother teach you to keep your word?  Phyllis and her kind neighbors on Bugle Run Drive in Oak Ridge for caring for my brindle pit bull when he got lost on New Year’s Eve. I appreciate your time and the care you all showed to my frightened pet.  Kevin Murray, owner and barista of Summerfield’s premier coffee shop, the Jumping Bean, for making the best chestnut mocha in the South!  Oak Ridge Military Academy for offering to host Oak Ridge’s 20th Anniversary Volunteer Appreciation Dinner this Saturday. The Town of Oak Ridge is so grateful to your staff and students!  Brian and the crew at the newly opened Tire Max on U.S. 220 in Sum-

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Photo by Patti Stokes

Carson Lee Overby died tragically April 29, 2010, at the age of 15. As one way of keeping his memory alive, his family has adopted a stretch of N.C. 68 in Oak Ridge and periodically decorates the two signs on either end, one near BB&T at the intersection of N.C. 68 and 150 and the other beside the Ai Church on N.C. 68. The Northwest Observer featured an article on Carson Lee Overby and his family’s efforts to keep his memory alive in our March 14, 2014 issue, which can be accessed through our archives at www.nwobserver.com.

 Dr. David Lorczak with Oak Ridge Chiropractic for going the extra mile to take care of his patients. By far the best chiropractor around!  David and Lori Cole, owners of David Cole Pottery in Oak Ridge. David created a Christmas miracle for us and I am so grateful for the angel I was able to take home. The gallery is also warm and welcoming!  The nice people on Lester Road (in Stokesdale) who took care of our lost dog. Not only did you care for her, you also took her to the vet so we could be reunited. We are so grateful!

GRIPES to...  People who are upset about snowplow drivers and NCDOT. If we don’t plow your road you’re mad! Be thankful there are people working countless hours for you, or shovel the whole road next storm.  Drivers who don’t use their headlights in fog or pouring rain, but on a crystal clear, moonlit night blind me with their high beams and fog lights.  Republic Services and whoever approved their rate increase. Granted, it was a small amount, but based on last year’s performance they should be dropping rates significantly and providing customer refunds, not raising them.

Editor’s note: Republic Services is the contracted company that provides residential trash/recycling services to Summerfield and Stokesdale. Since the reader is a Summerfield resident, we’ll address the gripe accordingly and offer some history on the topic. Republic Services’ franchise contract with the Town of Summerfield expired Dec. 31, 2018, and a 3-year renewal contract was approved by a vote of the Town Council at a special called meeting on Dec. 19. Prior to the decision to renew the contract, the Town sought bids for residential trash/recycling pickup service and received two, one from Republic Services and the other from Waste Industries. Republic’s proposed rates per quarter for weekly service with contractor-supplied carts were $48.60 (meaning, every customer will have a company-issued cart so that the automatic arms on the trucks can pick them up) and Waste Industries’ bid was $69. Since Republic has served the town for 12 years with very few complaints until last winter, and the company had resolved at least most of the customer service problems it had in early 2017, the council authorized the town manager to negotiate the contract renewal with Republic.

40 40 40  The person griping about the New York China (unpaid) receipt wall.

How quick can you say it? How short can you be? If you can be brief, we’ll publish for FREE. You, too, can share news of a joy or a mess, In our Grins & Gripes section – in 40 words or less.

Grins and Gripes are limited to no more than 40 words and run at the discretion of the NWO editorial staff.

grinsandgripes@nwobserver.com

Here’s a freebie for you: how about customers just pick up their orders instead of pulling the equivalent of a “dine n’ dash” in a local family restaurant? Problem solved.  Communities that need a Gripe section in their local newspaper to encourage or further already feasting arguments in the community and to further publicize the dysfunctional local governments in the area. No respect. Editor’s note: We certainly don’t mean to be disrespectful by reporting on a dysfunctional government, but when the government is dysfunctional, we won’t ignore that just because it’s unpleasant to read about. We’d be happy to dedicate a whole front page in a future issue, and many more pages inside, to a story about how our local representatives turned the tide and started behaving like the leaders we expected them to be when we voted them into office.  The Town of Oak Ridge for getting NCDOT to lower the speed limit to 35 mph on N.C. 68. How does it help? It made traffic much worse!  Equipment hogs at the gym. “Guarding” a machine for over 30 minutes while using your phone and doing no exercises is inconsiderate. Use the device, and then move

away so that other paying patrons can finish their workouts.  The person who watched the man in his 80s shoveling snow after the plows came through. You should have helped him! People just got to complain about something. Editor’s note: Because of our holiday break it’s been a few weeks between issues, so here’s a refresher on what the above reader is referencing: in our Dec. 20 issue, a person was griping about the snowplows throwing snow across driveways, resulting in her 80-year-old neighbor having to shovel it out of the way to get out of his driveway.  Food Lion in Summerfield for not having their usual “chunks” of hog jowls. The pre-sliced package was so salty we couldn’t eat it. Bring back the unsliced jowls. Editor’s note: Calling all hog jowl eaters – what do you say: pre-sliced or chunks?  New York China gripe. Anyone who places an order for freshly prepared food and then fails to pick it up and/ or pay for it commits a petty crime. At best, they lack personal integrity and honor.  My neighbor on Peppermill Road in Oak Ridge for his aggressive driving, which is going to get someone killed!

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‘YOU’VE BEEN SUED’

...continued from p. 1

issue directly,” Payne told the Northwest Observer last April. N.C. General Statute 160A-59 reads, “...When any elected city officer ceases to meet all of the qualifications for holding office pursuant to the Constitution, or when a council member ceases to reside in an electoral district that he was elected to represent, the office is ipso facto vacant.”

“The BOE made their decision that he did not qualify as a voter (in Summerfield),” Payne said. “At that moment the office became vacant.” On April 25, Rotruck’s attorney and business partner, Marsh Prause, filed a complaint and motion for injunctive relief on his behalf, naming the Town of Summerfield as the defendant. Prause filed a second complaint and motion for injunctive relief April 26, naming the Board of Elections and Janelle Robinson as co-defendants. Last June Superior Court Judge Susan Bray granted the town’s motion to dismiss the case against it based on lack of subject-matter jurisdiction, rendering that case closed. The case against the BOE and Robinson meandered its way through

the court system until last August, when it came before Superior Court Judge John Craig. Craig took several weeks to deliberate, but ultimately rendered a ruling Oct. 4 upholding the BOE’s decision. Rotruck filed an appeal to Craig’s ruling in November, and the case is now waiting to go before the N.C. Court of Appeals; no date has been set for that hearing. Rotruck’s latest lawsuit against Laughlin seeks relief in the nature of “quo warranto,” a legal action used to resolve a dispute over whether a person has the legal right to hold the public office that he or she occupies. In the suit Rotruck requests the court direct Summerfield Town Council to remove Laughlin from public office and allow him to take his seat back on the council. Permission to bring the action against Laughlin was granted by the state attorney general and the suit names the “State of North Carolina ex rel. (upon being related); Todd Rotruck” as the plaintiff. Rotruck maintains he “established legal residence in Summerfield in 2016,” prior to registering to vote and to run for town council in July 2017, and “that he continues to reside in Summerfield to this day.” In his lawsuit he also maintains he purchased

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property on Strawberry Road in Summerfield and “intends to inhabit the detached single-family house located upon that property long-term with his family once his ongoing major renovations to the house are complete later this year.” On Tuesday evening, the town council voted 4-1 to retain lawyer Gray Wilson of Nelson Mullins in Winston-Salem to represent the town in Rotruck’s latest lawsuit, in which he claims his seat is occupied by Laughlin “due to actions by Town of Summerfield personnel to exclude Rotruck from exercising the position beginning on or about April 19…” Wilson was to perform legal work only if the town’s insurer, the North Carolina League of Municipalities, refused to cover the town’s expenses in the suit. Town Manager Scott Whitaker confirmed on Wednesday the League will not cover the legal fees, so the town will retain Gray. The council voted in favor of retaining outside counsel at the recommendation of Town Attorney Bill Hill, who is listed in Rotruck’s latest suit. In a suit filed against the town by Rotruck last year, Hill was also listed as a party, leading the League to refuse to cover the town’s expenses in that suit. Wilson represented Summerfield in last year’s suit, and Hill recommended hiring him again, Whitaker said.

Council member Teresa Pegram voted against hiring outside counsel, saying that “nowhere on this suit does it say the ‘Town of Summerfield.’ I’ve got a problem with taxpayers providing for an attorney that doesn’t have the Town of Summerfield on it.” In an interview with the Northwest

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Observer on Wednesday, Whitaker explained the town was securing an attorney because although Laughlin is named as the defendant, the suit is really about Laughlin’s role on the town council, not directed at her personally. Mayor Gail Dunham said she didn’t like that the town had incurred “an enormous amount of legal bills” defending itself against Rotruck’s suit last summer. Those expenses totaled about $53,000, Whitaker said.

“It truly saddens me that the town is on the hook for this money, not only once but now twice,” Councilman Reece Walker said. If the Town Council were unwilling to defend the town against Rotruck’s suit due to expenses, the former council member may prevail in the suit “and get his seat back by default,” Walker said.

“That would make some folks really happy,” he added. “But I think more folks would be happy if this whole Rotruck thing would just end.” Laughlin told the Northwest Observer, “I haven’t done anything wrong. I didn’t go after anybody’s seat and I said I would be there as long as they needed me. That’s where it stands right now. “I just got in the crossfires of something between him (Rotruck) and the town,” she added. “That’s the way I have looked at it. I’m not going to a great expense and I won’t sit at home and mope. I have my life. I’m not stressed about it. I’ll say again, I’m willing to serve as long as I am needed.”

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BUSINESS CLOSING

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DEADLINE: Monday prior to each issue

STORE CLOSING SALE. Maisy Daisy Florist, Inc. has officially closed shop doors. We will be selling everything in the shop. We will be open every Saturday in January from 8am-5pm, or by appointment. Cash or check only. If you have any questions please contact Brian Mays (336) 215-8775, or leave message. Thank you to all of our loyal customers who helped support us these last 3 years!

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INDEX

Auto Sales & Service ................... 27 Business Closing.......................... 27 Employment ............................... 27 Lost & Found............................... 27 Save the Date ........................ 27-28 Yard Sales ................................... 28 Home Services ....................... 28-29 Misc. for Sale .............................. 29 Misc. Services.............................. 29 Misc. Wanted .............................. 29 Pets & Animal Services ................ 29 Real Estate.................................. 30

CASHIERS NEEDED at Quality Mart #49 in Oak Ridge. Quality Mart #49, located at 1690 Highway 68 Oak Ridge, NC 27310, is seeking experienced, dependable, and customer service focused full-time and part-time cashiers! Competitive salary, excellent benefits for all full-time employees, including 401(k) with 5% match and profit sharing! Interested candidates should apply online at www.QOCNC.com. PART-TIME PICK PACK Associates needed for Carson-Dellosa Education. Must be 17 and willing to work in a fast-paced warehouse environment. Competitive pay and flexible hours. Perfect job for students! Contact (336) 808-3263 or (336) 808-3225. 657A Brigham Road, Greensboro, near Pleasant Ridge Road.

EMPLOYMENT

MAINTENANCE SPECIALIST. Quality Oil Company, LLC is currently seeking a maintenance specialist for its retail divisions. Responsibilities include assisting with various maintenance projects to include: maintenance and repair work, carpentry, plumbing, pump maintenance, and all other general maintenance responsibilities to support our retail stores. This position is located at our corporate office in Winston-Salem, NC, and work hours are 8am-5pm, Monday through Friday, (must be flexible based on repair needs). Candidate must have clean driving record and a valid driver’s license. We of offer competitive pay and excellent benefits including 401(k) with 5% company match and profit sharing! All interested candidates should apply online at www.qualityoilnc. com. PART-TIME BUDGET OFFICER position available for the Town of Stokesdale. This is a government position as described in NCGS 159-9. Approximately 16 hours per week and may be asked to attend budget meetings during budget season or Town Council meetings as needed. This position works with the Town Clerk/Finance Officer to implement budgeting and financial record keeping, procedures to ensure efficient coordination of various departmental, grant and designated accounts, maintains accurate information regarding the financial status of the town and advises immediate supervisor regarding financial matters. Degree in accounting, or related field, from an accredited institution and at least two years experience preferably in accounting or budgeting or an equivalent combination of training and experience, required. Please submit resume and references to stokesdale@ stokesdale.org or mail: Town of Stokesdale, P.O. Box 465, Stokesdale, NC 27357. Hiring? We can help! Visit www.nwobserver.com to place a classified ad or call (336) 644-7035, ext. 0.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

EMPLOYMENT PART-TIME KENNEL ASSISTANT needed. Duties include: patient care, restocking inventory and cleaning. Must be responsible, reliable, have own transportation and be able to work mornings. Please bring resume to Northwest Animal Hospital, Oak Ridge.

LOST & FOUND

FOUND DOG near Henson Forest. Young, unneutered male terrier mix. 22 pounds. White with faint brown spots. (336) 337-0398.

SAVE THE DATE FREE COMMUNITY DINNER at Liberty Wesleyan Church, Friday, Jan. 11, 5-7pm at 15303 US Hwy. 158, Summerfield.

Something going on? We’ll help get the word out! Place your Save the Date classified ad online at www.nwobserver.com. ORYA GIRLS SPRING LACROSSE REGISTRATION is open now through Jan. 25. Girls grades K-8 can register to play for our elementary or middle school divisions. No experience is required and all are welcome! Visit www.orya.org to register or email girlslacrosse@orya.org with any questions. Don’t wait, registration closes on January 25! Late registrations will not be accepted.

... continued on p. 28

JAN. 10 - 16, 2019

SAVE THE DATE

HOME SERVICES

FREE COMMUNITY WALK IN OAK RIDGE. "Walk with a Doc," Sat., Jan. 12, 8am, at Oak Ridge Town Park. We walk every 2nd Saturday of the month! You'll take a few minutes to learn about a current health topic, then enjoy a healthy walk and conversation with a doctor. Walk your own pace and distance. Every walk is FREE and pre-registration is not required. Email any questions to walkoakridgenc@gmail. com. All are welcome! Come and bring a friend!

ANA'S HOUSECLEANING. Good references, free est., 25 years exp. (336) 309-0747.

L & T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE "We get you mowing!" Com/res., all models. 2103 Oak Ridge Rd., Oak Ridge. Call (336) 298-4314, landtsmallengineservice.com.

GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490.

YARD SALES BIG CHURCH YARD SALE, Sat., Jan. 19, 8am-noon, 3232 Horse Pen Creek Road, Greensboro.

HOME SERVICES CLEANING THE CLEANING TECHNICIAN INC. For a one-time clean or bi-weekly, I can fit your schedule. Licensed, bonded and insured. Call Lisa, (336) 207-0770. CastleWorks WINDOW CLEANING Includes gutters, pressure washing, chandeliers and other high ladder work. Fully insured and bonded, free estimates. (336) 609-0677. www.castleworkswindowcleaning.com. OLGA'S HOUSEKEEPING SERVICE If it needs to be done, I'll do it. If it needs to be clean, I'll clean it. You will be satisfied. References provided. (336) 289-0008. MAIDS OF HONOR HOME CLEANING $25 off! Locally owned, bonded staff. 40 years in service. BBB A+ rating. (336) 708-2407. CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING Gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. windowcleaningnc.com (336) 595-2873. CHRISTIAN MOM needs work cleaning houses, running errands. Will fit to your budget. Pet taxi/pet sitting also avail. References. Call Laura Bennett, (336) 231-1838.

28 28

JAN. JAN.1010- 16, - 16,2019 2019

ELECTRICAL Do you have ELECTRICAL NEEDS? Call Coble Electric LLC at (336) 209-1486. It's generator season, call us to get yours installed! BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC. Got Power? Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192. Need an electrician? Call BLACKMON ELECTRICAL, INC. Free estimates. Commercial & residential. Licensed & insured. Call (336) 430-5018.

FLOORING MONTERO'S HARDWOOD FLOORING Installation of hardwood, laminate & tile; hardwood sanding & finishing. Commercial & residential. Insured, 17 yrs. exp. Free est., exc. references. Call (336) 215-8842 or visit Monteros-hardwood-flooring.com.

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

OLD SCHOOL

HOME REPAIR /IMPROVEMENTS “No Job Too Small”

Wood Rot Repairs • Bathroom Remodeling Painting • Decks and much more! • Insured

(336) 669-7252

oldschoolsjhr@triad.rr.com

GARY’S HANDYMAN HOME SERVICES “Providing value for the home-ownership experience.” Gary Gellert, serving NC’s Piedmont Triad area. Garygellert@gmail.com, (336) 423-8223. LAWN MOWER REPAIR & SERVICE. Free pickup & delivery. Call Rick, (336) 501-8681. Affordable HOME REPAIRS. One call fixes all! A+ with BBB. For a free estimate, call (336) 643-1184 or (336) 987-0350.

APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707. WELDING, FABRICATING, MACHINING. Will pick up and deliver. (336) 362-8408. GREENERTIMES SMALL ENGINE Sales & Service Center. All types sold and repaired; comm./res. 9428 NC Hwy. 65, Stokesdale. (336) 548-9286 or (336) 312-3844.

GRADING / HAULING FORESTRY MULCHING. Reclaiming overgrown pastures, property lines and trails. (336) 362-8408. ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt. available. Zane Anthony, (336) 362-4035. E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Driveways, fill dirt, demolition, lot clearing, excavating, bobcat work, etc. (336) 451-1282. PEARMAN QUARRY HAULING Fill dirt, gravel, sand rock, mulch & more. Joel Richardson, (336) 803-2195. GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, fill dirt, gravel, etc. (336) 362-1150. BRAD’S BOBCAT & HAULING SVCS. LLC Debris removal, grading, gravel/dirt, driveways, concrete work. (336) 362-3647.

LAWNCARE / LANDSCAPING

ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Bobcat work and more. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. Call Joe at 643-9157. FAY'S LAWNCARE & LANDSCAPING Complete landscape maintenance & hardscaping. Tree work. Reasonable & honest. Call Taylor, (336) 458-6491. CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, (336) 643-9332. www.carolinaStumpAndTreeServices.com. STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Lic./Ins. 30 yrs. exp. Bucket truck & chipper, total cleanup. Selective thinning & lot clearing. 24-hr. ER. (336) 643-1119. WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Lawn maint, landscaping. Irrigation/ landscape contractor. Hardscaping & landscape lighting. 26 years exp. (336) 399-7764.

MASONRY MASONRY CONCEPTS, brick, block, stone concrete & repairs. Free est. (336) 988-1022, www.masonryconceptsgso.com. SOUTHERN STYLE concrete & landscapes. How about a new patio or fire pit? We can help with all of your outdoor living and entertainment spaces! Fire pits, driveways & sidewalks, patios and more! Give us a call at (336) 399-6619 for all your concrete and landscape needs.

SOUTHERN CUTS LAWN CARE, complete lawn maintenance services. 13 years experience. Nathan Adkins, (336) 500-1898.

MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS

ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call (336) 382-9875.

ON EAGLE'S WINGS residential home design/drafting. Call Patti, (336) 605-0519.

ORTIZ LANDSCAPING, complete lawn care. Trimming, cleaning, planting & mulch, gutter cleaning, patios & pavers, waterfalls, retaining walls, sidewalks, stonework. Residential and commercial. (336) 280-8981.

GRILLS, FIRE PITS, tankless water heaters. General home repairs. Call Don Hill, (336) 643-7183.

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HOME SERVICES

MISC. SERVICES

PAINTING & DRYWALL

BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic. & insured. Call Mark, (336) 337-7924.

DOUGLAS CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING, LLC. Custom Builder, sunrooms, garages, additions, kitchens baths. Licensed & Insured, BBB A+ accredited. Free est. Visit www.douglascr.com or call (336) 413-5050.

ERRANDS AND MORE, LLC. Providing

PRESSURE WASHING

CARLOS & SON PAINTING, interior and exterior. 24 hours/7 days a week. Free estimates, licensed/insured. (336) 669-5210. STILL PERFECTION PAINTING Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com. LAWSON'S PAINTING. Custom decks, pressure washing, boat docks, block fill, wood repair, stain work, textured ceilings, sheetrock repair. Call (336) 253-9089. CINDY’S PAINTING. Interior painting, wallpaper removal. References & free estimates available. (336) 708-9155. PAINTING – INTERIOR & EXTERIOR 32 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. No job too small. Insured. Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186.

BEK Paint Co. Residential & Commercial David & Judy Long, owners

(336) 931-0600

BEKPaintCompany.com • References Available • Licensed & Insured • All Work Guaranteed

PLUMBING WEBSTER & SONS PLUMBING, Inc. (336) 992-2503. Licensed, insured, bonded. 24/7 service. Plumbing, drain cleaning, well pumps. Give us a call, we do it all! Go to www.webstersplumbing.com for more info.

Services TM Construction , INC

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Outdoor living spaces | Fire pits

(336) 644-8615 office (336) 508-5242 cell Licensed & insured NC Gen. Contractor #72797

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, dock work, siding, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Sr. disc., 39 years exp. (336) 362-6343. JLB REMODELING, INC. Remodeling and additions. Fully insured. NC GC license #69997. Free est. Call (336) 681-2902 or visit www.jlbremodeling.com. RENOVATION WORKS, INC. New construction, remodeling, additions, kitchen, bath and decks. We are a locally owned, full-service design and build company, A+ accredited with the BBB. Visit www.myrenovationworks.com or call (336) 427-7391 to start your next project. ORTIZ REMODELING – Total restoration & home improvement. Drywall, painting, kitchen cabinets, interior trim & more. Free estimates. (336) 280-8981. KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Specializing in room additions, kitchens & baths, garages, vinyl siding and windows, painting, ceramic tile, laminate, hardwood and linoleum floors, and remodeling of all kinds. No job too small. Free est. Call (336) 362-7469.

lies of all ages ranging from companionship services to transportation to Dr. appts., house sitting, pick-up & delivery service for Rx, meals & groceries. Additional services

PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Fully insured. Crystal Clear, www. windowcleaningnc.com (336) 595-2873.

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

assistance with general errands for fami-

available. Insured. Follow us on Facebook at Errands and More, LLC. Call Pam at

thanks

our advertisers for

making each weekly issue possible!

ROOFING RED RHINO ROOFING, based in Oak Ridge, NC. Storm damage specialist experienced with all types of roofing. BBB accredited A and listed with Angie’s List. Call (336) 944-6118, or visit redrhinoroofing.com. ROOFING. Best prices in town! Shingle and metal roofing. Top-notch quality. Res./comm., licensed & insured. Financing available. Belews Creek Construction, (336) 362-6343. KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Residential shingle & metal roofing. Free est. (336) 362-7469. CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC. Residential roofing, rubber flat roofs, roof coating, metal roofs. 30 years experience. Call (336) 643-8191 or (336) 580-3245. A.L. CORMAN ROOFING INC. Res. roofing specialist serving Guilford Cty. area since 1983. BBB 25+ years w/ A+ rating. cormanroofinginc.com, (336) 621-6962.

(336) 202-2420. SAM'S AUTO BODY SHOP. Any type of body work. 45 years exp. (336) 347-7470.

Need something? Find it here in the

classifieds submit your ad at

nwobserver.com MISC. WANTED FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, tillers, go-carts, ATVs, generators, power washers, chain saws, metal items and electrical items. (336) 689-4167. $$$ – WILL PAY CASH for your junk or wrecked vehicle. For quote, call (336) 552-0328.

PETS & ANIMAL SVCS. AVAILABLE FOR SALE

MISC. FOR SALE

RABBITS FOR SALE, call (336) 362-8408.

SEASONED FIREWOOD, delivered and stacked, 1/2 cord, $80. Call (336) 686-6373.

PET SITTING

LANDSCAPING & GARDEN EQUIPMENT SALE. 1970 Ford 1500 4wd tractor w/9 attachments. 8hp Troy tiller. 2010 825i John Deere Gator. (336) 601-4949. MADE-TO-ORDER CUSTOM FURNITURE using reclaimed wood, natural-edge slab pieces and metal. (336) 362-8408.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

WENDY COLLINS PET SITTING. Registered & Insured. Follow me on Facebook! Call or text, (336) 339-6845.

... continued on p. 30

JAN. 10 - 16, 2019

REAL ESTATE

LAND FOR SALE

HOMES FOR SALE

HOMESITES FOR SALE. Southern Rockingham county with Summerfield address.

CRUTCHFIELD FARMS!

A NEW ENGLAND CHARMER!

VERSATILE FLOOR PLAN!

Nearly new home in beautiful Nantucket Village, a sidewalk neighborhood. Great floor plan, excellent function, generous storage. 2-car garage and fencing already installed. Close to Lake Brandt Marina, watershed trail system & just outside city limits for lower taxes! Northern schools. Offered at $399,000

7402 Felloes Court, Oak Ridge

Bethany Elementary School. Homesites ranging from two to six acres. Four remaining 10-acre estate sites. Beautifully wooded and open land with gentle terrain. Ponds, streams on some tracts. Now being offered at pre-development 20% discount prices. Call to make appointment to reserve your dream property. Homesites starting at $35,900. Call (336) 430-9507 anytime. HOMESITE FOR SALE. 1.5-acre lot available in Northern Guilford school district. No HOA or dues. Call (336) 430-9507 anytime.

5908 Crutchfield Farm Rd, Oak Ridge Builder’s custom home in soughtafter Oak Ridge with full finished basement, main-level master, in-law suite and no HOA! 4 beds/3 baths. Incredible value at only $459,900!

DeDe Cunningham REALTOR®/Broker NC Licensed Contractor

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

We Help Everyone!

(336) 509-1923 dedesrealestategroup.com dedecunningham@kw.com

Nancy J. Hess

nancy.hess@bhhsyostandlittle.com (336) 215-1820

$469,900

For superior marketing, call Ramilya Siegel CRS, GRI, SRES, Chairman’s Circle Award

( 336 ) 215.9856 rsiegel@kw.com

SELLERS & BUYERS

VERSATILE FLOOR PLAN

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

(336) 643-4248

www.ANewDawnRealty.com 123 Dream Lane

5602 Feather Court

REACH OUT TO

26,000 READERS

IN OUR

special-focus section. To reserve your space in the third issue of each month, email advertising@nwobserver.com, or call (336) 644-7035, ext. 11.

JAN. 10 - 16, 2019

Otey Construction offers this versatile floor plan w/ 3,600+ sq. ft. well situated on approximately 1 acre. Main level impresses w/ 10’ ceilings & conveniently includes master bedroom suite, second BR w/ full bath and office. Large greatroom w/ fireplace, covered porch w/ grilling deck. Two more BR, second office and large bonus space on second floor. Add’l storage in unfinished basement. 3-car attached garage with people door to back yard.

Jake Letterman (336) 338-0136

Dramatic chateau with open floor plan. Generously sized rooms offer a comfortable, relaxed lifestyle. Multiple gathering and outdoor living areas for entertaining or active families. Offered at $750,000

Real estate showcase ads in the NWO get noticed! Include a photo and description of your listing, Realtor photo, logo and contact info – all for only $80!

Nancy J. Hess

nancy.hess@bhhsyostandlittle.com (336) 215-1820

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Place your real estate showcase today (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 advertising@nwobserver.com

index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

Please support our advertisers, and tell them where you saw their ad! ACCOUNTING Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC..... 26

ART/DANCE/KARATE Northern Arts Studio ......................... 21

AUTOMOTIVE SALES/SERVICES Piedmont Truck Tires ......................... 24 Prestige Car Wash ............................. 16 Tire Max .............................................. 5

BUILDING / REMODELING TM Construction Services ................. 29

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Pest Management Systems, Inc. ........ 12 Prostone Inc. ...................................... 2 Stokesdale Heating & Air .................. 18

INSURANCE Gladwell Insurance Agency................ 14

LEGAL SERVICES Barbour & Williams Law .................... 14 The Law Offices of Susan Greeson.... 19

MEDICAL CARE

22 years and going strong! direct-mailed to over 11,800 mailboxes in northwest Guilford County every week, plus an additional 1,500 copies available at about 70 local business locations for free pickup, and online 24/7 at nwobserver.com

Dove Medical Supply ........................... 7 LeBauer Healthcare – Summerfield ..... 3 Murphy Wainer Orthopedics .............. 20 Novant – Forsyth Pediatrics ............... 17 Wake Forest Baptist – Summerfield ..... 8

What some of our 13,000-plus Facebook followers are posting about us –

Oak Ridge United Methodist Church ... 2 Summerfield First Baptist Church....... 25

ORTHODONTICS Olmsted Orthodontics ...................17,22

• Thank you for another great edition. The Northwest Observer (NWO) serves our communities well!

DENTAL SERVICES

PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS

• Yes, love the NW Observer . . . . have for 20 years!

CHILDREN’S SERVICES Guardian Ad Litem Program ............. 23

CHURCHES

Summerfield Family Dentistry ............ 21

EYE CARE Vision Source Eye Center of the Triad ..17

FURNITURE Priba Furniture & Interiors.................. 32

HAIR CARE

Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital .............. 12 Northwest Animal Hospital ............... 13 Westergaard Kennels ........................ 13

Oak Ridge Physical Therapy .............. 16

REAL ESTATE

YMCA of Greensboro ........................ 10 Alpha Weight Loss ............................... 6

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES

RESTAURANT

HEALTH/FITNESS

BEK Paint Company .......................... 29 Budget Blinds ................................... 10 Calderon Painting & Remodeling....... 29 Carpets by Direct ................................ 9 Old School Home Repair .................. 28

• Thanks for all the great coverage of local issues in this week’s paper!

PHYSICAL THERAPY

A New Dawn Realty ......................... 30 DeDe Cunningham, Keller Williams ... 30 Jake Letterman, Berkshire Hathaway ..30 Nancy Hess, BHHS Yost & Little ........ 30 Piedmont Rental Homes...................... 6 Ramilya Siegel, Keller Williams .......... 30

Great Clips ........................................ 16

• Love you guys!! Thanks for what you do for our community!! Happy New Year!!

Bistro 150 .......................................... 16 Rio Grande Mexican Kitchen............. 17

RETAIL

advertise with us For advertising info, contact Laura Reneer, marketing manager (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 advertising@nwobserver.com

Clouds Tobacco ................................... 4

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

JAN. 10 - 16, 2019

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

Postal Patron PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310 • (336) 644-7035

PAID

Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22 ECRWSS

Neutral doesn’t have to be boring! “Update your neutral palette with pops of sophisticated color that best represent your personality. In 2019, it’s time to express yourself again.”

Visit Priba Furniture & Interiors for fine furnishings at the very best price! – Forbes (2019 Design Trends)

210 Stage Coach Trail, Greensboro | (336) 855-9034 | pribafurniture.com Mon-Fri 9am-5:30pm, Sat 9am-5pm