Northwest Observer / May 7-13, 2020 by pscommunications

May 7 - 13, 2020

bringing the local news home to northwest Guilford County since 1996

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HAPPY TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK!

“As teacher appreciation week approached, my kids thought it would be fun to show how much they miss their teachers at Stokesdale Elementary,” Melissa Delveaux wrote when she submitted these photos of her daughter, Colette, a second-grader, and son, Jacob, a fifth-grader. With their mom’s help, the two Stokesdale Elementary students incorporated a Dr. Seuss theme into homemade signs and outfits and had their pictures made in front of the school to let their teachers know, “We miss you here, we miss you there, we miss you everywhere!” | Photos courtesy of Melissa Delveaux

IN THIS ISSUE

News in brief........................................... 2 Your Questions ....................................... 4 Businesses edge back.......................... 6 Pets & Critters ........................................11 Getting social with critters.................. 12 NWO Kids’ Korner ................................ 15 Crime/Incident Report / Calendar .....18 NWHS seniors drive by ........................ 19 Student Proﬁle ...................................... 20

Honda Aircraft cuts 204 jobs, conﬁrms positive COVID-19 case

We love you, Mom! ..... 22 Letters/Opinions .................................. 26 Grins and Gripes ................................. 27 Classiﬁeds ............................................ 28 NWO On The Go / Staycation ............ 32

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

by CHRIS BURRITT NW GREENSBORO – Honda Aircraft Co. said it has eliminated the jobs of 204 contract workers due to a coronavirusrelated drop of demand for jets it builds at Piedmont Triad International (PTI) Airport.

Expansion of Honda Aircraft’s operations at Piedmont Triad International Airport is continuing even as the company eliminated the jobs of 204 contract workers, or about 14 percent of its work force. The company’s new facility will increase the assembly of jet wings and provide parts storage.

The cutback eliminated about 14 percent of the company’s approximately 1,500 jobs at PTI. The dismissals followed other cost-reduction steps including salary reductions by full-time management and other employees and

...continued on p. 10

NEWS in brief

Preview: May 7 Oak Ridge Town Council meeting by CHRIS BURRITT

OAK RIDGE – At its upcoming meeting, Oak Ridge Town Council will consider authorizing town staff to request proposals from contractors interested in operating and maintaining a proposed municipal water system. Over the past year, the council has been evaluating whether to establish a water system that would initially serve new subdivisions with 30 or more houses. The request for proposals would seek bids from firms to run the system, including customer service and billing services, according to a memo by Town Manager Bill Bruce. The contractor would initially help town staff and the council to determine

whether to proceed with the water system. During its January meeting, the council voted 4-1 to adopt proposed rules for establishing and operating it. Councilman Doug Nodine voted against the adoption of rules, reflecting opposition and wariness by some Oak Ridge residents that taxpayers may wind up paying for unexpected expenses of a system. If the town establishes a system, users of existing private and community wells wouldn’t be required to connect to it. The council will use the Zoom application to conduct its monthly meeting at 7 p.m. this Thursday, May 7, via the

internet, just as it did in April. Mayor Ann Schneider plans to explain how the spread of the coronavirus has led to the cancelation of most committee and board meetings and limited access to Town Hall. In other business during this week’s meeting, the council will consider whether to approve a report detailing the master plan for improvements of the Whitaker property, part of the town’s application for a matching grant of $450,000 from the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund. Over the next three years, Oak Ridge leaders have proposed spending $1.95 million to extend Town Park to the 58-acre Whitaker property on Linville Road it purchased in 2018. Improvements would begin with grading of the site, followed by building a trail, playing fields, a playground, a picnic shelter and restrooms, according to the plan.

The report explains the background and history of the Whitaker property, the town’s efforts to seek ideas for improvements from residents, and technical details such as the environmental condition of the property, according to Bruce. The council will also hear a presentation by Palmer McIntyre, the Piedmont Land Conservancy’s conservation planner, about the proposed Piedmont Greenway. The 19-mile trail would run from Greensboro to Winston-Salem through Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Kernersville. A section of the trail is proposed for the floodplain of the Reedy Fork Creek through what’s known as Bandera Farms, a 113-acre tract at the northern corner of Bunch Road and Interstate 73 in Summerfield. The land conservancy has agreed to purchase the tract for $575,000. It is seeking contributions from municipalities – including $50,000 from Oak Ridge – to pay for the property as the future site of a public recreational area that would include trails for hikers and

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possibly mountain bikers and horseback riders, according to McIntyre. Separately, Bruce will ask the council to amend the town’s tobacco use ordinance to prohibit use of electronic cigarettes in town-owned or leased buildings, vehicles and grounds including Town Park. Amending the ordinance would bring Oak Ridge in compliance with rules adopted by the Guilford County Board of Health last November. “The use of e-cigarettes in places where smoking traditional tobacco products is prohibited could lead to difficulties in enforcing smoke-free policies,” according to the proposed amended ordinance. The council will also consider appointing Kelly Riddle as Oak Ridge Youth Association’s (ORYA) representative on the town’s Parks and Recreation Advisory

Board. She would replace former board member Tom Collins, ORYA’s president.

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want to participate? People who want to participate in the council’s meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 7, can do so using the Zoom application. Instructions for connecting to the meeting can be found at www.oakridgenc.com; on the homepage, tap the “Town Council” tab and then “Town Council agendas.” Instructions for accessing the meeting using Zoom are located at the top of the agenda for the May 7 meeting. Instructions for submitting a question or speaking during the meeting are explained under the Public Comments section of the agenda.

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 Debbie Brown (shown in photo), along with Dawn Kanin and Annette Yoffe, hand out 150 to 170 grab-andgo meals every weekday from 11 a.m. to noon at Oak Ridge Commons shopping center. The three women said they appreciate the smiles and waves from the kids and parents they get to serve. Ashley Baity picks up meals for her four children from the Guilford Country Schools’ bus at Oak Ridge Commons shopping center on May 4. GCS staff have been delivering grab-and-go meals, including lunch for the day and breakfast for the following day, for children 0 to 18 years of age since March 18, after Gov. Roy Cooper announced schools would be closed indefinitely due to COVID-19. The meals are delivered each weekday from 11 a.m. to noon at 29 locations throughout the county, including the shopping center off N.C. 68 and 150 in Oak Ridge.

... News Briefs continued on p. 4

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MAY 7 - 13, 2020

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OUR TEAM Patti Stokes, editor/publisher Laura Reneer, marketing manager Kelli Jessup, publisher’s assistant Rene Collins, administrative assistant Yvonne Truhon, graphic designer Leon Stokes, IT director Lucy Smith, finance manager Linda Schatz, distribution Chris Burritt, staff writer; Helen Ledford, Meredith Barkley, Lily Pierce and Annette Joyce, contributing writers

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-Th 9am-noon (or by appt.)

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NEWS in brief ...continued from p. 3

Revenue decline due to COVID-19 depletes NCDOT cash reserve

I see the Stokesdale Farmers Market Funds are below required opened Wednesday. Are statutory minimum there plans to bring back NORTH CAROLINA – Citing a sharp the farmers market in decline in revenue due to COVID-19, Oak Ridge this season? N.C. Department of Transportation has We checked with Laurie Brackett, who organized the first From the Earth Farmers Market in Oak Ridge last year. It occupied a vacant lot on N.C. 68 next to the Quality Mart convenience store and ran through last fall. Plans for bringing back the Oak Ridge market are on hold, according to Brackett. Organizers “have decided to wait to see how the Stokesdale market runs and if the farmers have enough capacity to have another outlet,” she said earlier this week. “What I’m hearing is, farmers are struggling to keep up with demand,” she said. “Most don’t have time for another market location.” Stokesdale Mayor John Flynt said the town’s market this past Wednesday attracted half a dozen vendors. Located in the parking lot of Town Park at 8325 Angel-Pardue Road, the market is going to run for 4-7 p.m. on Wednesdays through Oct. 28. A second farmers market is planned for downtown Stokesdale at Stokesdale United Methodist Church, starting next Tuesday, May 12, Flynt said.

Curious about something? Submit your questions about topics relevant to the northwest area

fallen below the statutorily mandated cash floor of $293 million. According to state law, once the department falls below the cash floor, it can no longer enter into new contracts that obligate money to transportation projects.

e-mail: questions@ nwobserver.com

MAY 7 - 13, 2020

• Continue operating DMV functions

The North Carolina general statutes restrict the department’s ability to enter

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• Continue active projects

• Pay incoming invoices from private sector companies as long as funds exist

The NCDOT is fully funded through the Motor Fuels Tax, Highway Use Tax and Division of Motor Vehicles fees. Due to COVID-19, the drop in revenue from these sources will result in more than $300 million in lost revenue for this fiscal year, which ends June 30. An additional shortfall of more than $370 million is projected for FY21.

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While below the cash floor, NCDOT can: • Maintain existing infrastructure with existing supplies and staff

“Never in the history of NCDOT has there been such an immediate and sustained decline in revenues,” said Eric Boyette, the state’s transportation secretary. “We need revenue to begin putting people back to work across North Carolina.”

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into agreements that obligate additional funds for transportation projects until cash on hand is above the statutory cash floor, as certified on the last day of the month.

• Respond to emergency situations (with existing staff and materials) • Hire new employees for critical, safetyrelated positions or DMV functions While below the cash floor, NCDOT cannot: • Negotiate right of way purchases on projects not underway • Purchase additional equipment, supplies or services for transportation projects unless obligated to make such a purchase in an existing contract • Award new construction, engineering or repair contracts In response to the drop in revenue, NCDOT has: • Laid off nearly half of all temporary

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employees and embedded consultants • Suspended most programs • Enacted a hiring freeze (except for positions impacting public safety) • Canceled a contract for passenger ferry • Begun developing a department-wide

plan to furlough employees • Evaluated programs and areas for cuts For the department to begin reinstating suspended projects and programs, NCDOT would need revenue replacement to compensate for COVID-19 losses for FY20 and FY21.

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“We knew there was rock there,” said Mary Catherine Sauer, principal of Revolution Academy, when referencing tons of rock workers have uncovered at the future charter school’s construction site on N.C. 150 in Summerfield. “What we don’t know is how big of a problem it is going to be.” to Dwight Turman, project superintendent for Landmark Builders, the contractor for the project.

by CHRIS BURRITT SUMMERFIELD – Mary Catherine Sauer, principal of Revolution Academy, said workers preparing the 28-acre site for the charter school on N.C. 150 in Summerfield uncovered tons of rock. Earlier this week, a track hoe loaded boulders onto a dump truck which traveled about 100 yards to deposit the rock into a mostly empty sediment pond. The rock is being placed to channel water running from a natural spring, according

“We knew there was rock there,” Sauer said in an interview. “What we don’t know is how big of a problem it is going to be” in relation to grading of the area where the first school building will be located. Elsewhere on the property, workers put down drainage pipes in preparation for building the driveway into the school on N.C. 150 at Deboe Road. Kindergarten-through-sixth-grade students plan to start the academic year in August at the Church on 68, a temporary location until the building on N.C. 150 is finished in December, Sauer said.

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MAY 7 - 13, 2020

Businesses edging back after restrictions begin to ease

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NW GUILFORD – Business owners we spoke with in Oak Ridge and Summerfield this week said they’re eager – but not overly eager – to reopen and expand their hours now that Gov. Roy Cooper has eased restrictions aimed at checking the spread of the coronavirus.

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“It is a tough challenge right now,” said Phil Ray, owner of Best 4K9, the operator of three natural pet food stores in Oak Ridge, northern Greensboro and Winston-Salem. While he wants to add hours, he’s concerned about the safety of his employees. Earlier this week, Cooper modified the state’s stay-at-home order, easing restrictions that had forced many businesses, including retailers selling “nonessential” merchandise, to close.

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The latest order removed the distinction between essential and non-essential businesses. Effective at 5 p.m. this Friday, May 8, retailers are allowed to open at 50 percent of capacity. They will be required to instruct customers to stand six feet apart while performing frequent cleanings, providing hand sanitizer and screening workers for virus symptoms, according to the order. People can leave their homes to patronize any business that is open.

He temporarily closed his gallery in the Summerfield Square shopping center on U.S. 220 more than a month ago. “We plan to clean and organize and get back into the routine,” Berg said in an interview earlier this week. He added that the gallery typically attracts one or two customers at a time, so abiding by capacity requirements won’t be a problem. “We do want to reopen and start getting back to normal,” he confirmed. The Best 4K9 stores have been operating on a reduced schedule during the virus outbreak. The stores are open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Now that the governor has eased restrictions, Ray said he may reopen the stores on Sunday and Wednesday, leaving them closed on Monday.

“We know we need to be open more because our customers expect it,” Ray said. Being closed one day a week “allows us to clean our stores and come up for air. I want to make sure we’re acting cautiously.”

The order requires certain businesses, such as bars, barbershops, nail and hair salons, entertainment venues and gyms, to remain closed. Restaurants are still prohibited from opening for dine-in customers but may continue to fill orders for drive-through, take-out and delivery.

Tessa Clemencia, owner of Love Ava Boutique, a women’s clothing store in Summerfield, said she’s decided not to reopen during May despite the easing of restrictions. She said she will assess month to month when to reopen.

John Berg, owner of Blissful Studios and Gallery in Summerfield, said that, in keeping with public health recommendations, he plans to give his Summerfield store a thorough cleaning before reopening, probably next week.

“I think it is too soon to reopen,” said Clemencia, explaining her store on Summerfield Road is too small to accommodate more than two customers at a time to adhere to social distancing requirements.

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shine a light on

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Congratulations, Sarah!

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

A sign placed on the front door of Destination Arts in Oak Ridge Commons just after Gov. Roy Cooper announced the state’s stay at home order indicated the business hoped to reopen by the end of March. As of May 6, the studio which offers dance, music and acting classes is still waiting for a confirmation as to when it will be allowed to reopen.

“It would be an uncomfortable shopping experience,” she said. Love Ava’s online sales have accelerated since Clemencia closed her store in mid-March. As a result, she’s assessing how many days a week to operate the store once she reopens. For Cameron Ligon, owner of Destination Arts in the Oak Ridge Commons shopping center, reopening may still be weeks, or even months, away. Her business offers dancing, music and acting classes, possibly placing it in the same category as gymnasiums that aren’t

allowed to reopen yet. While Ligon is waiting to hear back from the Guilford County Health Department and the governor’s office about whether she can reopen, she continues to provide a mix of live and pre-recorded classes to students online. She said she hopes to reopen her studio in mid-July, assuming the governor continues easing restrictions as risks of the coronavirus spreading continue to wane. “It’s the most trying situation I’ve encountered as the owner of the business,” she said. “But rather than get mad about it, I want to keep our students and families safe.”

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HONDA AIRCRAFT Community Wide ...continued from p. 1 Community Wide a temporary suspension of production, company spokeswoman Kie Nagasawa said in an email earlier thisArea week. Northwest Guilford

Workers learned of their dismissals benefiting Backpack the families Ministry oflastNorthwest Guilford Area week as company officials were dealefiting the families of Northwest Guilford Area Community Wide Backpack Ministry ing with the positive COVID-ID diagnosis

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Help us provide food to over 200 school-aged children and Hondatheir Aircraftfamilies vendor. in the Ministry northern andBackpack northwest sections of Guilford County. These children are at at risk for Theand company, based PTI, deterHelp us provide food to over 200 school-aged children their families in the hunger, and with schools not in of session, many cannot access foodhadprograms benefiting the families Northwest Guilford Area mined the worker not been on the northern and northwest sections of Guilford County. These children are at risk for Help us provide food overDue 200 school-aged childrenrestrictions, Backpack Ministry available during thistotime. to families supplier quantity wepremises are unable company’s for a weekto before 00 school-aged children and their in the hunger, and in with schools not in families. session, many cannot access food programs and theirsufficient families theto northern northwest sections obtain food supportand these Any donation you canfor make willNagasawa be testing positive the virus, s of Guilford County. These children are at risk for available during this time. Due to supplier quantity restrictions, we are unable to ofgreatly Guilford County. These children are at risk for hunger, appreciated! said. She added the worker wasn’t Help us provide food to over 200 school-aged children and their families in the in session, many cannot access food programs and with schools not in session, many cannot access food obtain sufficient food to support these families. Any donation you can make will be northern and northwest sections of Guilford County. These children are at risk for displaying symptoms when last on the Due to quantity restrictions, we greatly appreciated! hunger,programs. and with schools notsupplier in session, many foodare programs company’s premises. to supplier quantity restrictions, wecannot are access unable to available during this time. Due to supplier quantity restrictions, we are unable unable to obtain sufﬁcient food to support these families. to Honda Aircraft informed employthese families. Any support donation you Any can make be will be obtain sufficient food families. you will can make Any donationtoyou canthese make will be donation greatly appreciated! ees about the positive virus diagnosis greatly appreciated!

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former Honda Aircraft colleagues and the contract-personnel companies for which they worked. The lack of notification upset some of the workers because they didn’t know whether they had possibly been in contact with the sick worker. In her emails, Nagasawa didn’t respond directly to a request for an explanation of whether the company notified terminated workers about the diagnosis. The spokeswoman said Honda Aircraft had implemented additional cleaning and sanitizing of its facilities several weeks before the worker tested positive. The precautions remain in place, and they include fever screening for visitors and employees. All employees receive new disposable masks daily and are required to wear them, according to Nagasawa. The company has also restricted all nonessential travel, installed cubicle partitions as part of social distancing measures, and is allowing some employees to work remotely and take time off.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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Dylan McGibbony of Summerfield looks out at the sunset with his dog in the midst of the COVID -19 pandemic. Despite the uncertain times, Dylan and his pup remind us that “the sun will come out tomorrow.”

Oak Ridge resident Dee Hall shared this picture of her rescue dog, Tanner, an Australian goldendoodle, and her granddaughter, Kinley Bodkin. “We had to put both our dogs down a couple of weeks ago,” Hall wrote last month when she sent us the photo. “One had cancer and one was 19 and could hardly get around. Losing them both at the same time was devastating. A friend told me about a rescue situation and although I thought it was too soon, I was also so sad and lonely on lockdown at home – so we took him! And I haven’t cried myself to sleep since then!”

Elaine and Bill Campbell of Summerfield have even taught their pets the importance of sanitizing. Punkin, their 4-year-old orange tabby, reminds everyone to “Wash Your Hands” to avoid COVID -19.

We your pet or animal photos, and so do our readers! e-mail them to: photos@nwobserver.com

Sugar Baby, a 7-year-old Himalayan cat, and Kokomo, a 1-year-old Siberian husky adopted from Guilford County Animal Shelter, curl up together at their home in Stokesdale.

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Getting

social with

animals and other creatures

by ANNETTE JOYCE Like so many others, Jacob Smith, 13, and Jordan Smith, 10, have had a lot of extra time on their hands recently while being largely restricted to their home turf. Encouraged by their parents to find a creative way to spend their extra time, the brother-and-sister duo decided to combine their love of animals and technology into something both creative and educational. While their parents, Steven and Amy Smith, were packing to move from their Greensboro home to Stokesdale, Jacob and Jordan were roaming their two-acre lot videoing the debut of their own YouTube channel – “Animals in the Outdoors.” Their first production, which features Jordan overturning logs to see what “creatures” she can discover beneath the rotting wood, was created a few months ago. During the approximately fourminute production, viewers are invited to follow along as Jordan unearths various grubs and worms while Jacob handles the camera work. In an impromptu presentation somewhat reminiscent of the late Steve Irwin’s “Crocodile Hunter,” Jordan eagerly digs out the various critters, displays them in her palm and goes about pointing out some of their most interesting characteristics. While most people would probably shy away from these icky creatures, this spunky creature-loving girl finds them fascinating.

MAY 7 - 13, 2020

Photo courtesy of Jacob Smith

Jordan Smith talks about the characteristics of an earthworm while her brother, Jacob, films their first YouTube video.

and isn’t bothered by the “ick” factor.

“Look at that little guy,” she says as she holds out her hand to display a wiggly earthworm. She calmly points out the worm’s head and heart, noting that it has no eyes or teeth and eats dirt. “We’re going to let this little stinker

go,” she then says, carefully placing the worm back into its original habitat when she’s finished talking. Jordan’s concern for these tiny creatures is evidence of her devotion and curiosity for all aspects of the animal kingdom, and it’s not surprising to learn that she plans to become a veterinarian. Amy says her daughter has always had an interest in animals and insects

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“Even when she was little, we had to tell her she needed to ask us before she could pick up any animals or insects,” Amy said. “She examines all the details and likes things that are gross.” Although Jacob doesn’t share his younger sister’s over-the-top enthusiasm for animals, he does have a passion for technology and enjoys recording, uploading and editing the video segments.

“This is our way of doing something constructive to get kids interested in something other than gaming,” Jacob said (while also admitting he’s not immune to the thrill of gaming himself). The idea of continuing with the production of the YouTube channel came up when Steven and Amy decided the kids needed something to do during their down time.

Animal rescue group 75% of way toward fundraising goal The nonproﬁt organization that works with displaced animals has until May 17 to raise $10,000 and take full advantage of a matching grant

STOKESDALE – Due to COVID-19, Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network based in Stokesdale had to postpone its largest fundraiser of the year, Dogs on the Catwalk. This event helps to pay for veterinary bills and needed supplies for the animals that come through the nonprofit’s program. Thanks to an anonymous donor, however, the organization

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

Brother and sister Jacob (left) and Jordan Smith, with some help from their mom, Amy, and dad, Steven (not shown), are working to educate others through their YouTube channel.

Immediately, Jacob and Jordan thought of the YouTube video they had posted a few months before. Except for the on-air talent, everyone felt it was a great idea. Amy and Jacob still enjoy ribbing Jordan about how upset she became when Amy sent the video to all the people she knew and asked them to subscribe. “At first she was mad and embarrassed, and then she saw all the comments and changed her mind,” Amy said. Now that the talent has been mollified, the production is moving forward. In honor of Earth Day, the second segment deals with trash. A third segment, which is in the editing stage,

focuses on the eastern tent caterpillar. Having purchased nearly 16 acres in Stokesdale, the family has lots of wooded land with a couple of creeks, all filled with various wildlife that will no doubt be making appearances in future videos. High on the priority list, once the stay-at-home restrictions are lifted, Jacob and Jordan hope to do a video showing Jordan milking a cow – something she’s never done, but is dying to try.

want to watch? To view Jacob and Jordan’s videos, go to YouTube.com and search for “Animals in the Outdoors.”

Meet farm animals on ‘Hay Y’all’ Facebook show SUMMERFIELD – In our April 23-29 issue we featured an article about a Facebook Live program being produced weekday mornings at Summerfield Farms on Pleasant Ridge Road in Summerfield. The show aims to teach kids about farm animals – you’ll meet donkeys, a rabbit, baby goats, a barn cat and a Hereford calf, among others – and

to add a light touch during this unsettling time in which most everyone is restricted from being freely out and about. Watch “Hay Y’all” live on Summerfield Farms’ Facebook page, weekdays at 11 a.m., or any time afterward that’s convenient – but beware, there are no guarantees as to what the animals will do while the camera is on them!

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“Since we wouldn’t be having much social interaction, we felt they needed a project,” Amy said.

has received a matching grant of up to $10,000 for all donations received between now and May 17. So far, Red Dog Farm has raised almost $7,500 towards its goal and supporters are asked to give a gift of any amount to help unlock the full matching grant amount! And if now isn’t the right time for you to give, please share and the spread the word. Learn more at www.RedDogFarm. com or visit Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network on Facebook.

MAY 7 - 13, 2020

Pet Adoptions Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network

Guilford County Animal Shelter

TRINITY

BARBARA

Trinity, an 18-month domestic short-haired female cat, came to us as a stray after birthing kittens. After her kittens found homes, the person who originally found Trinity put her back outside. She’s now being fostered by a woman who learned her story and knows Trinity deserves a loving home! Trinity gets along well with cats and dogs, likes playing with her toys and enjoys cuddling and being near her person. She has been spayed and vaccinated and is ready for her own home. Learn more about this special girl or apply to adopt her at www.reddogfarm.com.

“Ba ba ba ba Barbara Ann .... Went to a dance/Looking for romance/Saw Barbara Ann/So I thought I’d take a chance .....” Barbara is an energetic and playful 8-year-old, 47-pound spayed brown and white American pit bull terrier mix. She came to the shelter as a stray, so staff does not have any previous background history. Barbara is heartworm positive. This is a curable condition, and she cannot transmit it to other animals. She is eligible for the Have-A-Heart program, which includes a 30% off voucher for heartworm treatment. Take a chance for romance – ask for Barbara by ID#A020191.

BANE

FRITO

Bane, a 3-year-old male hug (husky/pug), came to us with his brother, Slade, when his family could no longer care for them. Bane is very friendly and happy, gets along well with other dogs and is fine with cats. He is also crate-trained and house-trained. He has an underbite and will need in-home dental care (teeth brushing) and regular dental care provided by a veterinarian. He is neutered, had his first dental treatment with us a few weeks ago and is now ready to find his forever home. If you are interested in adopting this guy, please apply online at www.reddogfarm.com.

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Guilford County residents interested in meeting any of the adoptable pets should contact the shelter at (336) 641-3401 to set up an appointment. Staff will meet potential adopters outside of the building to begin the adoption process. Due to space limitations in the shelter’s current animal intake area, and the challenge for proper social distancing, GCAS is suspending the surrender of owned pets until further notice. All owners interested in surrendering their pet should call (336) 641-3413 for more information. GCAS is not taking in healthy community cats now; any kittens with a mother should be monitored until they are eight weeks of age rather than brought to the shelter.

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All adopted cats and dogs at Guilford County Animal Services come fully up to date on age-appropriate vaccines, have been dewormed and have had monthly flea prevention. They are also microchipped and spayed/neutered.

Currently during the COVID19 Crisis all adoption fees are waived.

FIRST TREATMENT

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Frito is an 11-month-old, 6.5-pound spayed female domestic shorthair. She came to the shelter as a stray so staff does not have any previous background history on her. She is FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) positive and will need to go to a home where she is the only cat or to a home with other FeLV-positive cats. Frito is extremely sweet and enjoys attention; her hobbies include reading articles featuring Dr. Anthony Fauci and watching his SNL segment obsessively. Please open your heart and home to her – ask for Frito by ID#A020241.

Guilford County Animal Shelter

4525 W. Wendover Ave., 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

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

r e n r o K ’ Kids kids l

oca local fun for l

CATS... did you know? • A group of cats is called a clowder • Cats sleep 70% of their lives • Cats use their whiskers to detect if they can fit through a small space • Cats can’t see in total darkness, but they can see in less light than humans need to see • Cats only sweat through their paws and nowhere else on their bodies • Cats can rotate their ears 180 degrees Thank you to Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital for making this week’s Find the Difference activity possible

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Although currently not open for dining in, Rio Grande Mexican Kitchen in Oak Ridge continues to attract hungry customers who line up in their cars for curbside pickup, or opt to have the food delivered to them. Owner Pepe Silva could not have imagined this transformation of his business several weeks ago, before pandemicrelated restrictions on restaurants went into place. “It was about lunchtime on a Taco Tuesday when we heard our dining room and bar would be shut down that day at 5 p.m. and we could only do delivery and take-out,” Silva said. “We’ve never been set up for that kind of business, but with a lot of teamwork we moved fast and made it happen.” Before this point, Silva said his restaurant wasn’t set up on its website for taking food orders. With only one phone line, customers who called in to place orders had a difﬁcult time getting through. Although Rio does have a catering truck, there was no order delivery system in place. Within hours, all of that changed. A second phone line was added. The website was beefed up and online ordering capability was added. To facilitate pickup orders and keep touchless wash • soft bristled brushes people from coming into the restaurant, a lane in front was new automated system designated for curbside pickup; additionally, a delivery system was put into place.

While continuing to offer delicious food an have been critical, Silva said the loyal custome community support have been a major key to restaurant humming. “When this came crashing down, I was wo just took it step by step and our customers and have come through,” he said. “My family and m employees and their families live in this area a mitted to doing whatever it takes to get throug Silva said one of the things he misses mo rent situation is the personal contact with his c “A lot of our customers have been with us ning. That’s 17 years,” he said. “We’ve seen th up, get married and have children of their own “People love coming to the Rio. I miss bein them, high-ﬁve the kids and generally just have Once people are allowed to dine in again, staff will be serving customers from their beauti across the Oak Ridge Commons parking lot. A permits have been approved and everything is waiting until he can celebrate a grand opening Visit RioKitchenCantina.com or call (33 (336) 644-7175 to place your order for picku

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Photo courtesy of Rio Grande

(L-R) Cirilo Carmen Mendoza, Jair Charro Herrera and Elit Gordo Altamirano stand in front of a curbside pickup sign at Rio Grande Mexican Kitchen in Oak Ridge Commons shopping center.

WE ARE OPEN take-out available

view our full menu at Bistro150nc.com

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Add your favorite wine or beer to your take-out order!

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We are thankful for our wonderful patients and community. We wish you all good health! We look forward to seeing everyone later this month! Have an orthodontic question or emergency? Call or email. Follow our Facebook page for updates Facebook.com/OlmstedOrthodontics

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CRIME / INCIDENT report

District 1 Sheriff’s Office

has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest/northern Guilford County ... pistol worth $350, and $1,500 in cash. AGGRAVATED ASSAULT April 29 | A resident of the 3600 block of Edgefield Road in northwest Greensboro reported between 4 and 6 a.m. a 24-year-old male strangled his daughter until she became unconscious, slapped her in the face with an open palm and threatened to kill her; the man was arrested for assault on a female and assault by strangulation and also cited for communicating threats.

COMMUNICATING THREATS April 29 | A resident of the 8000 block of National Service Road in Colfax reported a known suspect threatened to “bust out” the windows of his residence when he went on vacation.

April 29 | A resident of the 7600 block of Cedar Chase Drive in northwest Greensboro (off N.C. 150 W) reported an unknown suspect entered her unlocked vehicle between April 28 at 5 p.m. and April 29 at 10:30 a.m. and stole her pink Coach purse, which contained a tan wallet with $100 cash and her bank cards. April 30 | A resident of the 8500 block of Bromfield Road in Oak Ridge (near Oak Ridge Road) reported an unknown suspect stole two packages of food items, worth $100 together, from her driveway between 2:45 and 3 p.m.

THEFT

April 30 | A resident of the 2100 block of Beeson Road in Oak Ridge reported an unknown suspect entered his garage by cutting the lock on the door between April 26 at 6 p.m. and April 30 at 4:44 p.m. and stole numerous items including a yellow/black 2011 Can-Am Commander 1000 X, an orange/white STIHL 046 Magnum chainsaw, an orange/white STIHL MS 201T chainsaw, an orange/white STIHL FS130R straight-shaft weed eater, an orange/white STIHL FC90 edger and an orange Husqvarna tiller with a combined value of $20,850.

April 28 | A resident of the 3300 block of Rebecca Drive in Summerfield (off Strawberry Road) reported an unknown suspect entered his residence through an unlocked door between April 25 at 9 p.m. and April 28 at 2:30 p.m. and stole a Mossberg Luger 9mm semi-automatic

May 4 | A resident of the 2300 block of Scalesville Road in Summerfield reported an unknown suspect stole two red/black custom-made birdhouses, worth $200 together, from a pole at the end of her driveway between April 3 at 6 p.m. and April 4 at 5:42 p.m.

DRUGS May 2 | A 40-year-old male was arrested in the 1500 block of Curfman Road in northwest Greensboro (near Lake Brandt Road) for simple assault and assault on a government official; he was also cited for possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance (marijuana), possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting/obstructing a police officer and communicating threats.

COUNT ON US to keep you connected Serving northwest Guilford County direct-mailed to 12,000+ homes • 1,400 copies for free pickup online 24/7 • 13,900+ followers on Facebook

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MAY 7 - 13, 2020

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

mark your

calendar

EVERY TUESDAY  Farmers Market | Stokesdale United Methodist Church, 8305 Loyola Drive, will host a “Fruits of the Spirit” farmers market every Tuesday beginning May 12, 4 to 7 p.m. on the church’s front lawn. Vendors will sell local produce and homemade goods. Social distancing guidelines will be followed. More info: Charles Southard, (336) 509-7314.

EVERY WEDNESDAY  Farmers Market | The Town of Stokesdale is hosting a

weekly farmers market every Wednesday through Oct. 28, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Park, 8325 AngelPardue Road. Social distancing guidelines will be followed. Farmers, craftspeople, bakers and others selling fresh produce or homemade items are all welcome. To obtain a vendor application, call Stokesdale Town Hall at (336) 643-4011 or email deputyclerk@stokesdale.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 8  Hotdog Drive-Thru | Stokesdale United Methodist Church will host a free hotdog drive-thru dinner May 8, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at 8305 Loyola Drive. The church plans to give out 250 bags, with each bag given at the drive-thru including two hotdogs with individual servings of slaw, chili, mustard and ketchup. Limit six bags per vehicle. More info: (336) 643-4850.

Submit your events online at Click “community calendar” on the left-hand side

Deadline for inclusion in each week’s issue is

9 a.m. on Mondays Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC 32 Years Experience

Individual, Corporate, Partnership & Payroll Tax Electronic Tax Filing  Estate Planning Bookkeeping & Compilations Oak Ridge Business Center 8004 Linville Rd, Suite G, Oak Ridge (336) 643-7577 or 1-800-467-8299 info@samanderscpa.com www.samanderscpa.com

NWHS science teacher Steve Russillo dressed up as the school’s mascot, a Viking. When Joan Jett and the Blackhearts’ version of “I love Rock and Roll” came on in the background he did a great job of impersonating the lead guitarist (actually, his “guitar” was a plastic sword, but he sure made it look real!).

lph Kitley (left) and Retired principal Ra se for e Watkins (right) po ni on D al cip in Pr t. the Ass they drive through as s or ni se ith w es pictur r caps and gowns. line to pick up thei

, who l Wendy Farrow f Assistant principa drive-by with staf or ni se e th d te na coordi lds a sign dances as she ho and volunteers, niors. celebrating the se

See video of the senior drive-by at Facebook.com/NorthwestObserver

Photos by Patti Stokes/NWO

Northwest Guilford High School staff and PTSO volunteers enthusiastically greeted almost 500 of the school’s 518 seniors May 4 as they drove through the student parking lot to pick up their caps and gowns. The seniors seemed to enjoy the festive atmosphere, which included teachers and administrators, dancing, cheering and holding up handmade signs; compliments of the PTSO, each senior was given a senior yard sign and a “2020” cookie.

Retired NWHS principa l Ralph Kitley (left) and interim principa l Tanya Hiller (right) pose for a picture with a senior as he was driving by to pick up his cap and gown.

Brandon Thomas (top) and Yan Siqueira da Cunha (left) wave to cheering staff members as they drive through the line to pick up their caps and gowns.

Guidance counselor Aaron Murphy holds up a sign celebrating this year’s seniors.

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STUDENT PROFILE 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 Katie Keller, lacrosse by MEREDITH BARKLEY Katie Keller found herself without a spring sport several years ago when the organization governing youth soccer made some rule changes. Since her father coaches lacrosse for Oak Ridge Youth Association, she

decided to give that a try and took up the sport toward the end of eighth grade. Turned out to be the right fit, she said. Keller, a Northwest Guilford junior, plays field hockey in the fall and has been playing lacrosse year-round. She said she especially enjoys the fast pace of lacrosse. With the Vikings, she said she has proven herself flexible enough to play where Coach Kristen Herndon needs her. She hopes to do the same in college and has already verbally committed to playing lacrosse for North Greenville University in South Carolina. Thanks to the coronavirus and efforts

to limit its spread, this season Keller once again found herself without a spring sport, since play for all sports halted in mid-March. “We wanted to win a state championship,” Keller said of her lacrosse team’s high expectations for the season. “And without the ability to do that, it’s really upsetting.” Still, she said she understands why spring sports were canceled. “I know there’s nothing I can do about it,” she said realistically. “I just have to trust it’ll be fine when everything goes back to normal.” She’s got another shot at it next spring, and is already “super excited” about playing lacrosse in college. When not on the lacrosse field, Keller enjoys playing the cello with the high school’s advanced honors orchestra. “I’ve played in orchestra since sixth grade,” she said. “I’ve (always) loved how the cello sounds.”

Her favorite class: chemistry. “It just came to me naturally,” she said. “It made me feel really smart because not a lot of people understood it, but I understood it so well.” Having to go online for classes in recent weeks has presented challenges, though, and she said she’s “kind of panicking” over one AP class in which she has “no clue what’s going on” and limited one-on-one access to her teacher. “It’s hard to understand everything you need to be doing when you can’t talk to your teacher in person,” Keller said. At college, she expects to focus on an area of science that will prepare her for the medical field, likely neurology. “I’ve always taken an interest in what causes mental diseases and mental illness,” Keller said. “I think I could help people, and also I want to do some research in that field.”

Over 250 children in Guilford County will go to court alone Become a Guardian Ad Litem and advocate for an abused or neglected child

(336) 412-7580 | volunteerforgal.org

MAY 7 - 13, 2020

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Coming

June 11 Class of 2020 edition To celebrate high school seniors in our readership area, PS Communications proudly presents “Onward and Upward,” a special tribute to the high school Class of 2020. Below is just some of what we’ve got planned for this special publication… • Recognition of Northwest and Northern Guilford seniors • Student body and senior class president profiles/interviews • Recognition of Top 25 academic students in graduating class • Valedictorians/salutatorians • Special recognition for seniors who receive end-of-year awards • *Recognition of seniors at charter, private and home schools

publishe d by ps

commu nication s

Highlight your high school senior’s milestone by placing an ad in Onward and Upward Reserve your ad space by May 21 Individuals contact

Businesses contact

(336) 644- 7035, ext. 16

(336) 644- 7035, ext. 11

celebrations@nwobserver.com

laura@nwobserver.com

• Highlights of 2019/2020 senior year • Seniors’ passing thoughts • And more… *Because students in this group attend many different schools, parent assistance/input is needed.

published by

Directly mailed to all households in the Oak Ridge (27310), Summerfield (27358) and Stokesdale (27357) zip codes

Plus over 3,900 copies placed for free pickup Online year-round at nwobserver.com and shared with over 13,900 fans on Facebook

Thanks, Mom! Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms who are in our lives today and to those who are no longer here, but are forever in our hearts. The following are responses we received when we asked our staff members and readers to share some of the things they learned, loved and/or appreciated about their mothers.

Compiled by PATTI STOKES My mom and Dad divorced when I was 8 and I was with Mom for 12 of every 14 days after that, so she gets most of the credit for raising me. Here are a few things I learned from her: 1. Always take the high road – you’ll never regret the journey. 2. Show up and work hard. 3. Call if you are running late. That little moment of caring speaks volumes. 4. Always say “I love you” before you get off the phone, just in case you never speak again. Jeff Sasser, NWMS math teacher

My mother taught me to always trust in the Lord, how to be a good mom, and that pearls are always in style. Patti Dmuchowski, OAK RIDGE

I have been so fortunate to have a very forward-thinking, strong mom. Of course, she has taught me many, many things, but the three most important things she has taught me are to be compassionate, stand up for what I believe, and always be curious. I think they have served me well and continue to serve me well. Beth Kaplan, SUMMERFIELD Beth Kaplan’s mother is Summerfield resident Jane Doggett As a single parent, my mother struggled to provide for my brother and me. While she could not provide a lot of material things, she provided me with values that have helped me thru life. She taught me the value of always being truthful. The value of keeping your word. And she taught me it was not what you got, but what you gave that made the difference in your life and others. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. I try every day to make you proud. BJ Barnes, mayor, SUMMERFIELD

Sierra Walker and her grandmother, Rosie Simmons, 86, of Brown Summit My grandmother is my mother. She helped my dad raise me and has always been there for me. She bought my high school dance dresses, she was there for my wedding (and paid for my wedding gown). She has always supported me. She has taught me how to be the best mother I can be to my son, Anders. She showed me how to be loved and how to love. She taught me what a wife should be. She is the most selfless woman you will ever meet. And she is one of my best friends.

Talent may get you on the field, but it’s effort and attitude that will keep you there. – Russell Wilson

I am the person I am today because of her. Sierra Walker, SUMMERFIELD Three things I’ve learned from my mom:

FALL FOOTBALL

1. How to show compassion

3. Giving it a try. Sometimes you just have to have faith that God will show you what steps to take.

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MAY 7 - 13, 2020

2. How to have patience, even in times of hardship

Daken Whitaker, OAK RIDGE Daken Whitaker’s mother is Oak Ridge resident Emily-Sarah Lineback

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Chris Burritt and his mother, Thelma Burritt, 93. Thelma loves growing peonies and making them into beautiful bouquets. My mom celebrated her 93rd birthday earlier this week. As I’ve spent more time with her over the past year due to her declining health, I learned that she “played house” as a child, building the outlines of rooms from stones on the hillside below her family’s farmhouse in Randolph County. That helped me understand her love of decorating our homes as I grew up. Despite her frugal, hard-scrabble upbringing, my mom has always been generous to me and my two children. I’ve told her, but I don’t think she could possibly understand how much I appreciate what she’s done for her family. Chris Burritt, NORTHWEST GREENSBORO Chris Burritt is a staff writer for PS Communications Things I learned from my mother: 1) Love your family by working hard and providing for their needs. 2) Love your community by being involved in their programs 3) Love God by serving in his local Church. Mike Southard, SUMMERFIELD Mike Southard’s mother is Summerfield resident Linda Southard

really), which I still remember and use: “It takes two to tango.” “Two wrongs don’t make a right.” (One year, for her birthday, I got a custom T-shirt made as a gift. It said: “Two wrongs don’t make a right, but two Wrights made an airplane.”) “Women must suffer to be beautiful.” (And judging from some of the earrings I inherited from her, this is true.) (L-R) Mary Mayo (aka: “GrandMary”), her daughter, Jesse Washburn, and granddaughter, Maggie Washburn, a freshman at Northern Guilford Three things my Mama taught me: 1. Don’t spend more money than you make. 2. Never read “how to” books on child rearing. According to somebody, you are always wrong. 3. Get several good babysitters, use them often. Jesse Washburn, SUMMERFIELD

I still have – and wear – some of the things she made. In fact, I got a compliment on a top just the other day, and it gave me a wonderful feeling to brag about her talent. She made things to last, too. I donated several of her creations to The Little Theatre of WinstonSalem Costume Shop after Mother’s death in 1999. Her “1776 dress,” which she made for the Bicentennial in 1976, was still being rented out regularly more than 40 years after she first wore it! Yvonne Truhon, WINSTON-SALEM Yvonne Truhon is a graphic artist for PS Communications

During this time of uncertainty, count on Wake Forest Baptist Health to keep you safe, healthy and informed, with: • Multiple respiratory assessment sites • Expanded online video and telephone health visits • Helpful podcasts with vital information

Jean, Yvonne and Dr. M. Alfred Bichsel in the early 1960s My mother, Jean Bichsel, was born in 1920, so she would be 100 this August. She was always very elegant, a very hard worker, and (like so many who grew up during the Great Depression of the last century) hated to toss away or waste anything. She was also an amazing seamstress (she once told me she and her sisters didn’t like the styles they saw in the stores – nor the prices! – so they started making their own clothes). She made my wedding dress, and I made my headpiece and veil. She had many little sayings (clichés,

we’re here for you

Jenna Daniels and her mother, Patti Duncan, of Summerfield What I love about my mom: She always goes out of her way to help others

As your routines change, our commitment won’t — we are here for you. Find the latest updates at WakeHealth.edu/CoronaVirus Have COVID-19 questions? Call 336-70-COVID

She is my biggest fan She is always there when I need her Jenna Daniels, SUMMERFIELD Jenna Daniels is assistant chief of Summerfield Fire Department

care for life

...continued on p. 24

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MAY 7 - 13, 2020

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MOTHER’S DAY

...continued from p. 23 Trying to encapsulate all that my mother means to me in three things just doesn’t work, and I’m not even counting how thankful I am that she and my dad just pulled up roots and transplanted here.

revere God. She has taught me to always treat others with kindness. She taught me by example how to be a good mom. She has taught me how to be a decent cook. I learned from her to appreciate a good book and to be crafty. She is 89 years young and she is still my favorite person to hang out with. Most of my best memories include her. Rene Collins, SUMMERFIELD

1. Prayer, as who knows what my life would have been like without God’s answers to hers.

Rene Collins is an admin assistant for PS Communications

2. Creativity, as so many memories are bundled in her home-made cards and gifts, sewing clothes, dolls, quilts, etc., crocheting, oil painting, clever crafting, floral arranging, pie decorating, napkin-folding...and now masks. All done in love.

My mother, June Bercaw, taught me to have faith in God and to always treat others with respect: the golden rule.

3. Fun, from games, playing outside, to humor in daily life. She knows how to enjoy living, still. Terri Hawkins, SUMMERFIELD

I moved a lot growing up. I was taught that while life might change and definitely isn’t always easy, you should keep moving forward; perseverance counts. Finally, every day should be enjoyed and that there will be sunnier days ahead. Jeff Bercaw, NORTHWEST GREENSBORO

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I love that my mom is the kindest, most humble, strong-as steel, selfless, saintly person I know. She lost her mother when she was only 8 years old, but somehow figured out how to be the best Mom ever and also a perfect grandmother. I love that she instilled in me a strong sense of good morals. That’s not saying that I have never messed up through the years, but when I did, it was always her face that I would see. She is the one person who I have never wanted to disappoint. She has taught me to love and

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Sandra Smith, her mother, Carolyn Brown, and daughter, Shelby Smith Things I’ve learned from my mom: Don’t take life too seriously. Lighten things up by making up a poem about everyday situations (the disappearing cookies or fixing things with duct tape and WD-40) or singing a funny song from your childhood or teens (like “Mairzy doats.”) It’s OK to be silly. Whenever you feel sorry for yourself, do something nice for somebody else. Keep learning. Take a class or get someone to teach you. You, too, can learn cake decorating, storytelling or

how to play the ukulele. The time you spend with family and loved ones is something you will never regret and, once it is gone, you can never replace. Have a routine every day. Waking up early, getting dressed, exercising and studying the Bible provide a great start for each day. Keep yourself active – mentally, physically and spiritually. We don’t always understand life. Everybody has ups and downs. Even if you experience great loss or tragedy, remember that God has a plan.

Her strength. My mom is the strongest woman I know – she always stands up for what is right and has an unshakable faith. Her smile and ability to bring light to any situation. My mom has always made me laugh, but more than that, she brings kindness and compassion into every tough situation. Her spirit. My mom puts her entire heart into everything she does – she is the most dedicated and ambitious person I know. Hannah Schneider, WASHINGTON, D.C.

Sandra Smith, OAK RIDGE Sandra Smith is Oak Ridge’s town clerk

Hannah Schneider (right) and her mom, Oak Ridge resident (and mayor) Ann Schneider Here are 3 things I love about my mom:

Annette Joyce on her wedding day, with her mother My mom died way too early at the age of 49, and I treasure every moment I had with her. She was kindhearted

and always looked for ways to help other people, even when she was sick herself. During the day she worked in a textile mill and afterward came home to work on our farm, look after a house and four kids (two of us were born when she was still a teenager and the other two came when she was in her early 30s).

Mama pushed all of us to be our best. In dying so young, she taught me to never put off the things that I really want to do, but to find a way to do them and enjoy every minute of it. Mama died in 1992 and I think about her every day – her smile, her laugh, her eagerness to hear about all the details of my life and her gift of unconditional love.

We have more responses to share but we’re out of space, so we’ll continue our Mother’s Day tribute in next week’s issue. Want to share what you learned, love, and/or appreciate about your mom? Send your thoughts (and if desired, a high-res photo of you and your mom) to editor@nwobserver.com by Monday, May 11, 10 a.m. to be included in next week’s issue.

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MAY 7 - 13, 2020

LETTERS/OPINIONS Submit your letters (maximum 350 words)

online: nwobserver.com e-mail : editor@nwobserver.com Include your name, daytime phone number and name of community. Letters from the same writer will be published no more than every 30 days.

Parks, trails, greenways beneﬁt communities As one of the few places open during this public health crisis, local parks, greenways, trails and preserves offer a safe and healthy respite from the confinement of our homes or stressful jobs. In many places, data shows a 200% increase in trail and greenway use this past month over last year. In these days of “essential” and “nonessential” designations, greenways, trails and parks are unquestionably proving themselves to be “essential” services, critical to our physical and mental health and well-being. Apart from recent exceptional circumstances, greenways, parks and trails are always treasured by our communities. When community needs are great, however, it can be challenging to visualize the importance of new investments in these resources until projects are completed and people come to value and love them. In 2018, the NC Department of Transportation completed a study of the annual benefits of four different greenways from representative communities across the state, including Brevard, Charlotte, Durham and the Outer Banks. Their findings are compelling: • Business and employee benefits: $19.4 million in total estimated revenue for local businesses along the four studied greenways • Retail sales tax benefits: $684,000 in total estimated sales tax revenue

MAY 7 - 13, 2020

made from businesses along the greenways, which goes back to local governments • Trail construction benefits: $48.7 million in total estimated business revenue from construction of the studied greenways

new mountain bike trails on watershed property and a new trail project discussed in these pages which will include equestrian trails – the acquisition of Bandera Farms and the bold vision of the Piedmont Greenway connecting Greensboro to Winston-Salem through Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Triad Park, generally along Reedy Fork Creek. As we continue to love our green-

ways, trails and parks, let’s remember they take intentional efforts to create. Remind our local, state and federal elected officials how vital they are to our personal well-being and the health of our communities so we can plan future investments that will more than pay for themselves in benefits. Palmer McIntyre, conservation planner Piedmont Land Conservancy

How we can open America for business while protecting our most vulnerable

• Health, congestion and pollution benefits: $25.7 million in total estimated savings due to more physical activity, less pollution and fewer traffic injuries from use of the four greenways Based on this data, investment in greenways has a high rate of return, and despite a seemingly high upfront price tag, they pay for themselves with multiple benefits in relatively short periods of time. Like elsewhere around the country, people in our area desire homes with access to trails and greenways. This preference can result in higher prices for homes with such amenities, and therefore more property tax revenue for our local governments. It’s a win-win situation that gives our communities a sense of identity and makes them a valued place to live. Thanks to the hard work of local citizen committees, our area’s communities have exciting plans for more trails and greenways: completion of the A&Y Greenway to Summerfield (connecting Summerfield all the way to downtown Greensboro), more sections of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail,

Chart courtesy of N.C. Dept. of Health & Human Services

We can all agree the COVID-19 pandemic is causing grave suffering to our country and the world. What we cannot seem to agree on is how to go forward as a nation. Perhaps that is due to a lack of analysis of the data available to inform our decisions. In light of a lack of data analysis, I endeavored to do my own analysis using the public data on the NCDHHS website which tracks COVID-19 mortality by age. Taking this data and weighting it by age distribution and population density, I found that in North Carolina our seniors are at significantly higher risk of serious infection or dying from COVID-19 while the serious effects on the younger, under-50 population

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

are similar to or less than those of the seasonal flu. Clearly our seniors and immune-compromised are most at risk in this pandemic. As a country, we must raise awareness of this issue and develop a national campaign to rally around and protect our older adults and seniors and other high-risk groups. We can continue to support them through senior hours of operation and senioronly businesses, while they continue to shelter in place and work from home. Protecting our parents and grandparents will be the national rally cry as the younger generations don their face coverings and get back to business. According to Johns Hopkins, herd

...continued on p. 31

GRINS and GRIPES

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

words or less

RENOVATION CELEBRATION

OPEN HOUSE

• ALL NEW WORK • Great Mother’s Day Gifts • COVID-19 precautions taken for your safety

Saturday, May 9, 10a.m.-5p.m.

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

GRINS to...  Rachel (Rappin’ Granny) at Summerfield Food Lion for always making sure I am fed and taken care of, and for blessing her co-workers and customers in any way she can. We appreciate you so much!  Northwest Guilford High School staff for making picking up caps and gowns so much fun for our seniors this past Monday. Also, thanks to the PTSO for donating a senior yard sign and cookie to every graduate!  Tom Strader and Susan Long of Mg12 in Stokesdale for keeping their doors open to provide natural immune support and hand sanitizer to our community while keeping their employees working. A big win for small business in Guilford!  Stokesdale Elementary School PTA for celebrating our teachers with teacher appreciation yard signs. We are blessed with great teachers and parent volunteers!  Our local businesses for hanging on until you’re allowed to re-open and we can get back out and support you. We miss you and all you do for our communities, knowing it goes far beyond the service or products you sell.  Turner’s Yardz & Mower for going above and beyond our expectations when doing our yard last December and this spring. It is looking wonderful!

 Oak Ridge United Methodist Church and to all the Backpack Ministry volunteers who are providing food for families in need during the coronavirus pandemic.  All GCS teachers/administrators working hard with online learning. I am especially thankful for Oak Ridge Elementary School’s Ms. Moricle and Ms. Phillips, who have been vital in the success of my son’s online learning journey.

DavidColePottery • davidcolepottery.com (336) 668-0025 • Tues–Sat: 10am–5pm On Hwy 68 in Oak Ridge

 Rio Grande in Oak Ridge. They did an amazing job with the overload of Cinco de Mayo orders. Did the Rio Crew get to siesta on the 6th? Editor’s note: We spoke with Rio Grande owner Pepe Silva the morning after Cinco de Mayo, and he said the combination of it being “Taco Tuesday,” Cinco de Mayo, and the restaurant still adjusting to being takeout and delivery only definitely sent his crew into overload on May 5 and the volume of orders created a long wait time for some customers. “Getting 300 to-go orders in such a short period of time was a lot for us to handle,” Silva told us. “We learned a lot from this, though. From now on we’ll have limits on our website, so when we reach the cap on how many orders we can fill in a time period, customers will be notified of the expected wait. We didn’t know to do that before. Thanks to our customers who were so patient – we’ve already put some new systems in place to make our to-go ordering system

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...continued on p. 31

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

MAY 7 - 13, 2020

 AUTO SALES & SERVICE

 HOME SERVICES

KNIGHT IMPORT SPECIALTY SERVICE. European Auto Service & Repair, 4559 US Highway 220, Summerﬁeld (across from Food Lion). Specializing in factory-scheduled maintenance and repairs. BMW, Audi, Volvo, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Mini and Porsche. 32 years experience. (336) 337-0669.

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

BRAD'S BOBCAT & HAULING SVCS. LLC. Debris removal, grading, gravel/dirt, driveways, concrete work. (336) 362-3647.

Luxury Service. Southern Hospitality.

DEADLINE: Monday prior to each issue

Call (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 Mon - Fri • 9am -12:30pm

(336) 669-7252

6716 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale Just 1/4 mile off I-73 EuroHaus.pro | 336.891.3876

 HOME SERVICES A-ACTION AIR. A/C Spring checkup, $49.99. Call (336) 382-3750 or (336) 268-6768.

CLEANING PAOLA CLEANING SERVICE. Residential & commercial. Insured. (336) 669-5210.

INDEX Auto Sales & Service ........ 28 Home Services ........... 28-30

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.

ELECTRICAL

Misc. for Sale .................. 30 Misc. Wanted .................. 30

Need an electrician? Call BLACKMON ELECTRICAL, INC. Free est. Comm. & res. Licensed & insured. Call (336) 430-5018. Do you have ELECTRICAL NEEDS? Call

Pets & Animal Services .... 30 Real Estate ...................... 30

28 28

MAY MAY 77--13, 13,2020 2020

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Coble Electric LLC at (336) 209-1486. BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC. Got Power? Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192.

FIX YOUR MOWER! Service and repairs. Spring specials. "We do it right." Free pickup & delivery. Call Rick, (336) 501-8681. APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707. 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.

GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, ﬁll dirt, gravel, etc. (336) 362-1150. H&L GRADING, LLC. No job too tough or too small. Call us ﬁrst! We are a full-service grading company that specializes in residential projects. Owner/ operator Timmy Hart has more than 30 years of grading and equipment experience. Fully licensed and insured. Land clearing, debris removal, driveways, French drains and much more. (336) 543-7867.

GUTTERS / SIDING / WINDOWS WILSON SEAMLESS GUTTERS, new construction, repairs, replacement, leaf guards. Free estimates. (336) 420-0200.

Tell our readers how you can help.

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. CLOCK DOCTOR. Free house calls for sick clocks. (336) 643-9931 or (336) 392-4124. L & T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE "We get you mowing!" Comm./res., all models. 2103 Oak Ridge Rd., Oak Ridge. Call (336) 298-4314, LandTsmallengineservice.com.

GRADING / HAULING E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Driveways, ﬁll dirt, demolition, lot clearing, excavating, bobcat work, etc. (336) 451-1282. ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt, available. Zane Anthony, (336) 362-4035. DTW GRADING & HAULING, INC. Oﬀering complete bobcat services and hauling. Fill dirt, asphalt millings, stone and more. Daniel Wilson, (336) 339-0212.

The • Totally local since 1996 TheNorthwest NorthwestObserver Observer • Totally local since 1996

Call or email Laura for advertising info (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 advertising@nwobserver.com

LAWNCARE / LANDSCAPING WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Lawn maint., landscaping. Irrigation/ landscape contractor. Hardscaping & landscape lighting. 26 years exp. (336) 399-7764. ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. (336) 643-9157. STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Lic./Ins. 40+ years experience. All phases of tree work. Lots & natural area thinning and cleanup. Large shrubbery jobs, chipping. Oak Ridge. Call (336) 643-1119. Hire a local with references.

 HOME SERVICES

EXTERIOR GREENSCAPES. Lawn maintenance service. Call for a free estimate (336) 682-1456.

AQUA SYSTEMS IRRIGATION. Quality irrigation systems. NC licensed contractor. We service all systems. Free estimates. (336) 644-1174.

MASONRY CONCEPTS, brick, block, stone concrete & repairs. Free est. (336) 988-1022, www.masonryconceptsgso.com.

BEK Paint Co.

COLONIAL MASONRY. 40 yrs. exp. Specializing in outdoor living spaces; dry-stack natural stone and flagstone. Let us help you plan your patio, fire pit, fireplace, kitchen – or anything else you would like! Call (336) 949-9019. www.colonialmasonry.com.

David & Judy Long, owners

DELIMA LAWNCARE. 24 hours/7 days a week. Free estimates, licensed/insured. Mowing, pruning, mulch/pine straw and much more. Commercial and residential. delimalawncare@live.com. (336) 669-5210. FAY'S LAWNCARE & LANDSCAPING Complete tree removal & trimming. Storm damage clean-up. Landscaping & hardscaping. Insured. Taylor, (336) 458-6491.

PLACE YOUR AD: nwobserver.com ORTIZ LANDSCAPING, complete lawn care. Trimming, cleaning, planting & mulch, gutter cleaning, patios & pavers, waterfalls, retaining walls, sidewalks, stonework. Residential and commercial. (336) 280-8981. SOUTHERN CUTZ LAWN CARE, oﬀering complete lawn maintenance services & bush hogging. Nathan Adkins, (336) 430-6086. COLFAX LAWNCARE. Core aeration & seeding. Fertilizing, mowing, trimming, pine needles. Complete lawn care maintenance. Res./comm. Fully insured. Serving the triad for 32 years. (336) 362-5860. ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call (336) 382-9875.

AFFORDABLE LANDSCAPING for all your landscaping needs, including irrigation, installation and repair. Call Joe at J. Gibson Landscaping, an Americanowned and operated small business. Built on capitalism, not socialism. In God we trust. (336) 419-7236. CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, (336) 643-9332. www.carolinastumpandtreeservices.com. GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490. HILL LAWNCARE & OUTDOOR SERVICES. Free est. Call (336) 669-5448.

MASONRY 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.

Didn’t get your NWO? Please let us know! Direct-mailing the NWO is one of our largest expenses, and one of our most important commitments to our readers!

If you live in zip code 27310, 27357 or 27358 and didn’t receive your copy on Thursday/Friday, please email info@nwobserver.com.

Like the NW Observer on Facebook and keep up with all the northwest-area news! MISC. HOME SERVICES/PRODUCTS WILSON SEPTIC PUMPING & REPAIR. Family owned since 1972. Mention you saw this ad in the NWObserver for a discount. (336) 643-6427. JUNK & DEBRIS REMOVAL, construction, remodeling, and general cleanup, out buildings, garages, basements, yard waste, etc. Call (336) 706-8470. COX POOL SERVICE. Openings, closings, routine maintenance, weekly service. No contracts, free estimates! (336) 327-5122.

PAINTING & DRYWALL CARLOS & SON PAINTING. Interior and exterior. 24 hours/7 days a week. Free estimates, licensed/insured. (336) 669-5210. PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 40 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. Average BDRM walls $100. Insured. Call Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186. 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.

 HOME SERVICES

Residential & Commercial

(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. FREEMAN PLUMBING – new construction, remodel and repair. For ALL your plumbing needs! (336) 580-4525. BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR. No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic./ Ins. Cleanliness in your home is our #1 priority. Call Mark, (336) 337-7924.

PRESSURE WASHING PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Fully insured. Crystal Clear, www. windowcleaningnc.com or (336) 595-2873. CUTTING EDGE PRESSURE WASHING. Aﬀordable, dependable. Please call anytime for free estimate. (336) 706-0103. EAST COAST PRESSURE WASHING & LAWN SERVICE. Soft washing, surface cleaning of driveways and patios. See us on Facebook. (336) 207-3625. HOUSE SOFT WASHING, roof soft washing, pressure washing. Check out our 5- star reviews online! Please visit our website, MartinsPressureWashing.com.

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION ORTIZ REMODELING – Total restoration & home improvement. Drywall, painting, kitchen cabinets, interior trim & more. Free estimates. (336) 280-8981.

The Northwest Observer • Totally 1996 The Northwest Observer • Totally locallocal sincesince 1996

continued on p. 30

MAY7 7 - 13,2020 2020 MAY - 13,

29 29

HOME SERVICES

PREMIER CONSTRUCTION for all your remodeling/renovation needs. (336) 430-9507.

PREMIER ROOFING, LOCALLY OWNED. Catering to all your roofing needs. Call (336) 430-9507 for free assessments.

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, dock work, siding, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Sr. disc., 41 yrs. exp. (336) 362-6343. 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. 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.

AFFORDABLE HOME REPAIRS. One call fixes all! A+ with BBB. For a free estimate call (336) 643-1184 or (336) 987-0350. 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. JLB REMODELING, INC. Remodeling and additions. Fully insured. NC GC license #69997. Free est. Call (336) 681-2902 or visit www.jlbremodeling.com.

ROOFING BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Lifetime shingle and metal roofing. We finance. Free Estimates. Since 1979. Please call (336) 362-6343.

MISC. FOR SALE SEASONED FIREWOOD. $80/pickup truck load, delivered & stacked. (336) 253-7615.

Got stuff? Need stuff? Place your ad online at

MISC. WANTED YARN NEEDED to make children's hats for Samaritan's Purse Shoebox Ministry. Call Beth, (336) 644-8155. FABRIC NEEDED for Sew to Sow Ministry to make dresses for girls in Kenya. Cotton fabrics work best, any amount. Also need buttons, ribbon, lace trimming, elastic and thread. Call Beth, (336) 644-8155. FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, tillers, ATVs, generators, power washers, go-carts, mini-bikes, golf carts, 4-wheelers, etc. (336) 689-4167.

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critters

Check out our Pets & Critters section in this issue (p. 9-12) and the first Checkissue out of our Pets & Critters every month

section in this issue (beginning on page 11) and the first issue of every month. Send your pet photos and stories to photos@nwobserver.com!

Oak Ridge beauty with a fabulous in-ground pool. 4 BR/4.5 BA, 3-car garage on professionally landscaped acre lot in Oak Ridge. Over 4,100 SF. New HVAC, newer roof, updated kitchen and paint. The hard stuff is done!

Nancy J. Hess

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

LAND FOR SALE LAND. Large tracts. Rockingham County and Summerfield. Want social distancing?! Only three 10-acre tracts left. If 10 acres isn’t enough, one 25-acre parcel remains. Perfect for a mini-estate, laying hens, and a garden too. Hurry, this land won’t last! Call (336) 430-9507 anytime.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

We Help Everyone! SELLERS & BUYERS

TOWNHOMES IN OAK RIDGE!

Available Virtual Tours Twin townhomes starting at $275,900 within Oak Ridge town core. Move-in ready units available in spring 2020 or seize the opportunity to pick your floor plan and options!

Nancy J. Hess

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

Kim Wilson

(336) 643-4248

kwilson@bhhsyostandlittle.com (336) 662-7805

www.ANewDawnRealty.com

during the COVID-19 pandemic with our readers! Email your photos to

PETS & ANIMAL SVCS.

KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Residential shingle & metal roofing. Free est. (336) 362-7469.

WENDY COLLINS PET SITTING LLC. Bonded & Insured. Follow us on Facebook. Call or text (336) 339-6845.

MAY MAY 77--13, 13,2020 2020

SUMMER FUN AT HOME

$$$ – WILL PAY CASH for your junk / wrecked vehicle. For quote, call (336) 552-0328.

Share your pics of the creative ways

REAL ESTATE HOMES FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE

CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC. Residential roofing, rubber flat roofs, roof coating, metal roofs. 30 years experience. Call (336) 643-8191 or (336) 268-1908.

30 30

PETS & ANIMAL SVCS.

photos@nwobserver.com.

The • Totally local since 1996 TheNorthwest NorthwestObserver Observer • Totally local since 1996

Realtors, get your real estate listings noticed “ by placing showcase ads in our classifieds. Contact me for more info.” Laura Reneer, marketing manager (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 • advertising@nwobserver.com

index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

work better in the future.

Please support

our advertisers,

and tell them where you saw their ad. Without their partnership, the Northwest Observer could not be free to you, our readers! ACCOUNTING

LeBauer HealthCare ...........................2

Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC ....18

Novant: Forsyth Pediatrics Oak Ridge17 Oak Ridge Physical Therapy .............16

AUTOMOTIVE SALES / SERVICE EuroHaus .........................................28 Piedmont Truck Tires ........................24 Prestige Car Wash ............................16

Wake Forest Baptist Health...............23

ORTHODONTIC SERVICES Reynolds Orthodontics .....................20 Olmsted Orthodontics ......................17

CHILDREN’S SERVICES Guardian Ad Litem ...........................20

PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS

GROCERY STORE

Northwest Animal Hospital ...............12

Southern Foods ..................................5

Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital ..............15

REAL ESTATE

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES

A New Dawn Realty .........................30

BEK Paint Company .........................29

Carolina Real Estate Pathways LLC .....3

GrowinGreen Inc. .............................14

Nancy Hess, Berkshire Hathaway .....30

Nature’s Select .................................13 New Garden Landscaping & Nursery10 Old School Home Repair ..................28 ProStone, Inc. .....................................6

GRINS AND GRIPES ...continued from p. 27

Nicole Gillespie, RE/MAX ...................4 Ramilya Siegel, Keller Williams..........25

RESTAURANTS Bistro 150 .........................................17

Stokesdale Heating & Air..................27

Rio Grande Mexican Kitchen ............16

LEGAL SERVICES

RETAIL

Barbour & Williams Law ...................25

David Cole Pottery............................27

MEDICAL CARE / SUPPLIES

YOUTH SPORTS / CAMPS

Dove Medical Supply ...................... 8-9

Oak Ridge Youth Association ...........22

 ”The nice lady who paid for my groceries at Dollar General in Stokesdale on Friday, May 2, around 8:30 p.m. I appreciate your kind gesture, and please know that when you do good to others, good will come back to you.

GRIPES to...  The resident on Athens Road who puts your dog out at 7:30 a.m. and doesn’t bother to shush it. It barks non-stop for more than eight hours every single day. Enough already!  Management at Walmart in Kernersville for not requiring employees to wear masks. Yesterday, in a 1-hour shopping trip I counted no less than

Outside the

 The person commenting about parents “unconcerned” with their children’s education during the pandemic. Many are still working 40+ hours a week while trying to hold our families together. Be alarmed about the lack of PPE for hospital employees or the unemployment rate.  Retail gas stations still selling gas for $1.69 to $1.89 a gallon when it should be well below $1 a gallon. Die, oil industry, die.  Food Lion in Stokesdale for not giving all employees masks to protect them and customers from COVID-19 and for not enforcing one-way aisles. Lack of social distancing and mask use is dangerous and the risk is real.

…

The following reader-submitted GRIPES express opinions about state and/or national topics, and have been separated out of a courtesy to those who do not want to read others’ opinions on non-local topics in a local newspaper.  Gov. Roy Cooper for having capitol police arrest protesters for violating his executive order. First

LETTERS/OPINIONS

10 employees who either didn’t have a mask or who wore it improperly.

Amendment rights are not nullified by his or any other governor’s executive orders. Stand up for your rights – a high price was paid for them.  OpenNC and all the other protesters. Show some discipline and empathy for your fellow citizens. Also, all you SEAL Team Six wannabes showing up with long guns and tactical vests, you really look like SEAL Team Silly!

...continued from p. 26

immunity occurs when 70% have been infected and develop antibodies so the virus does not have any place to go and dies out within the population. As herd immunity takes hold through the mildly affected population, the virus will gradually be stamped out so that we can once again come together as an entire population.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

We must learn to move forward with the new reality that COVID-19 will be here. We are fighting a war against an invisible enemy. In the past our younger generations have risen in times of war to defend and protect our country – why should this war be any different? Jeremy Thomas, SUMMERFIELD

MAY 7 - 13, 2020

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

st Observer to read while traveling Fraser and Eileen Dick took their Northwe se the local news in front of a to Cuba in February 2020. Here, they brow Revolución (Revolution Square) in monument to Che Guevara in Plaza de la “Hasta la Victoria Siempre” (“Until Havana. The words on the monument read the Everlasting Victory, Always”).

Reagan and Gavin Poindexter of Summerﬁeld are using their extra time at home very well! Here they enjoy a relaxing afternoon in their hammock reading the Northwest Observer.

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