Hundreds of cyclists participating on day 3 of the weeklong NC Mountains-to-Coast ride passed through Summerfield Oct.3, taking a brief rest stop at Greensboro Performing Arts on Summerfield Road. Afterward, they continued on their journey to Emerald Isle.
Summerfield’s Planning Board and Council will hold a joint meeting Thursday, Oct. 5, to consider a text amendment to the town’s UDO
by CHRIS BURRITTSUMMERFIELD – Despite assurances by Summerfield’s Town Council that it will work with him to develop his nearly 1,000 acres, landowner David Couch isn’t convinced that opponents won’t redouble efforts to delay his project.
The assessment comes from Couch’s lawyer Tom
Terrell, as the council and the Planning Board will hold a joint special called meeting this Thursday evening, Oct. 5, aimed at accommodating the developer’s plans. After hearing the board’s recommendation, the council will then consider creating a new zoning district, the first step for Couch to win approval for higher density housing, including Summerfield’s first apartments.
I remain deeply concerned about the project’s future,’’ Terrell wrote in a letter this past Tuesday in response to questions from the media, property owners and other parties about Couch’s intentions if the council approves the new zoning district.
...continued on p. 34
OAK RIDGE – Oak Ridge is getting $4.5 million in the state’s newly adopted $30 billion budget for the development of its municipal water system. Stokesdale is receiving $175,000 for soccer field lights at Town Park.
Summerfield didn’t get a piece of the budget pie, even though Mayor Tim Sessoms laid out the town’s funding needs in a letter to state Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger.
For Oak Ridge, the state grant brings funding for the water system to $8.92 million, according to Town Manager Bill Bruce. The additional money consists of $3.27 million in federal pandemic relief funds and an earlier $1.15 million appropriation from the legislature for water projects.
Oak Ridge plans to spend the money on water infrastructure engineering, construction of an elevated water tank behind Town Hall on Linville Road and running of a
water line along N.C. 150 from Kernersville to the tank, Bruce said. Any leftover funds would go toward engineering for an additional line to serve the town core.
Mayor Ann Schneider and councilman George McClellan worked with state Rep. John Faircloth (R- District 62) to secure the $4 million. The other $500,000 million came from Sen. Berger (R-District 26), who recently asked Oak Ridge and Stokesdale for their wish lists of projects.
Berger didn’t ask Summerfield for a wish list, prompting Sessoms to write the senator a letter explaining projects the town would like to be funded. The town didn’t get any money, according to finance officer Dee Hall.
Enactment of the budget came nearly four months after the start of the fiscal year July 1. Efforts by Berger and other Republican leaders to expand gambling in the state delayed its passage.
“Sufficient uncertainty exists such that
He said he’s undecided whether he’ll run as a Republican or an unaffiliated candidate next year
by CHRIS BURRITT
NW GUILFORD – Bill Goebel said he’s going to run for election next year to try to regain the District 3 school board seat from which he resigned last month.
Goebel, a Greensboro Republican, said he’s already gotten $10,000 of the $50,000 he plans to raise in his bid to represent Summerfield, Oak Ridge, Stokesdale and parts of Greensboro on the board. At odds with the county’s Republican Party, he said he may run as an unaffiliated candidate, rather than as a GOP member.
If Goebel runs as a Republican, he’ll face Michael Logan, his District 3 replacement, in the bipartisan primary
election next March 5. If Goebel decides to run as an unaffiliated candidate and collects enough signatures to be placed on the ballot, he’d run in the general election Nov. 5, 2024.
Either scenario would allow voters to select their District 3 board representative. So far, the county’s Board of Education (BOE) has twice filled the vacancy that occurred when Pat Tillman was elected to the Board of Commissioners midway through his first term on the BOE.
The BOE appointed Goebel to the District 3 seat last April after several times refusing to seat Logan, the local Republican Party.’s nominee. Democrats who control the board objected to some
of the views Logan expressed on social media and considered Goebel to be a more moderate choice for District 3.
“My plan is to run and win in November of 2024,’’ Logan said in an email earlier this week. A former Southern Guilford High School teacher, he lives in an unincorporated area of the county near Northwest Guilford High School.
In an interview, Goebel said he’s going to run while “leaving my options open’’ on party affiliation.
A decision next Monday, Oct. 9, by the local GOP’s executive committee will help Goebel make up his mind. The committee plans to vote on a party disloyalty motion against him.
Goebel said he plans to attend the meeting and defend himself against a complaint related to the motion. It asserts that he “tried to interfere (with) and influence the seating of’’ Logan as “a duly and legally nominated and elected Republican’’ to the District 3 seat, according to Guilford GOP Chair Chris Meadows.
Meadows said he believes the Republican executive committees at the county and state level will pass the motion, leading to a ban on Goebel’s participation with Guilford’s GOP for between six months and five years.
“We’ll be asking for the longest ban,’’ Meadows said by email earlier this week.
“This ban does not mean Mr. Goebel can’t run for office as a Republican,’’ Meadows said. “It only means he cannot serve in any capacity within the Republican Party, as an officer at any level, nor can he attend Guilford GOP sponsored events.’’ Such limitations prompted Goebel to explore running as an unaffiliated candidate. He said he spoke to Summerfield’s Deborah Napper, elected as an unaffiliated candidate for the school board’s District 5 seat in 2020.
The county’s Board of Elections told Goebel he would need to collect about 2,100 signatures to be placed on the November 2024 ballot.
“I’m going to try to get those signatures,’’ he said.
SUMMERFIELD – Summerfield Fire District’s new, $670,000 tanker truck sustained damage during an earlymorning fire at Station 9 on 7400 Summerfield Road.
The 3,500-gallon truck was delivered to the station Sept. 20 and was not yet in service; it was parked in
Specialties:
• Sports Medicine
• Non-Surgical Orthopedics
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
• Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy
Training:
• Medical Degree: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Blacksburg, VA
• Residency: Family Medicine, Cone Health
• Fellowship: Primary Care Sports Medicine, Cone Health
by CHRIS BURRITTOAK RIDGE – Oak Ridge Town Council may seek a second round of construction bids for the Veterans Honor Green after initial bidding by three contractors exceeded the $238,930 raised so far for the project.
Town Manager Bill Bruce recommended the council reject initial bids of $341,000 by WC Construction Co., $375,000 by BAR Construction Co. and
$412,036.90 by Cinderella Partners, and then re-advertise for new bids.
As required by state law, town staff consulted with lowest bidder WC Construction to identify modifications that would bring the cost of the project in line with the budget. However, the firm’s lower bid of $240,000 “removed multiple components that are central to the design of the Honor Green,’’ Bruce wrote in an Oct. 2 memo.
...continued on p. 28
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
Bailey Meccariello, DO, has joined our office as a physician specializing in sports medicine, non-surgical orthopedics and musculoskeletal ultrasound. She will primarily see patients who are active and in pain, especially those who want to avoid surgery. As an osteopathic physician, she has a special interest in holistic care.
Among the advanced procedures she performs are two therapies that can help with orthopedic pain. The first is injection of the patient’s own platelet-rich plasma to promote healing of chronic injuries.
The second is a procedure not previously available at Murphy Wainer: extracorporeal shockwave therapy, which uses sound wave technology to increase blood flow and send growth factors to an area of injury.
“Both of those therapies really aim at targeting the body to heal itself,” she said. “There are so many things in medicine that we can’t fix. I’m lucky that, using the tools I have, I can help people fix themselves.”
Due to bids exceeding the amount raised for the project, town manager recommends rejecting contractors’ initial bids
Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC
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: vary, so please call before dropping by
Contact us at (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 display: advertising@nwobserver.com classified: classifieds@nwobserver.com
“We periodically hear gun shots from our house, usually for 15-30 minutes (sometimes an hour or more) every few weeks. I assume people are hunting or target shooting. What are the rules regarding shooting in Summerfield and Oak Ridge? Does it have to be a certain distance from a house or neighborhood? What should we do (if anything) when we hear gunshots?”
Summerfield, Stokesdale and Oak Ridge follow Guilford County’s ordinance with regard to the discharging of firearms. For readers’ reference, Sec. 11-1 of the county’s Code of Ordinances, is below: Sec. 11-1. - Discharge of firearms.
(a) Restrictions. No person shall, without the consent of the owner or lawful occupier, discharge a firearm within
Sunday:
October
150 yards of a dwelling or other building or structure, which is designed to be occupied by human beings, if such person knows or reasonably should know that injury to persons or
Towns in northwest Guilford County follow the county’s ordinance pertaining to the discharging of firearms within a specified distance of a dwelling or other building or structure. ... continued on p. 10
“He’s one of the most selfless people I’ve ever known. He’s always putting others before himself,” said Robin Priddy, referring to her co-worker and sonin-law, Phillip Stone.
Sure, she might be a tiny bit biased, but Priddy has known Stone since 2007 and has witnessed time and again how he steps up to serve others and seeks to make someone else’s day better.
As a Realtor and co-owner of A New Dawn Realty in Stokesdale, Stone’s workdays are often long and action-packed. Regardless of how hectic his day is, he gives 100% to his clients and has a reputation for going way above and beyond; and in the midst of all the demands, his trademark smile never seems to falter and his attitude remains upbeat.
“No matter what happens, Phillip isn’t going to take it out on someone else,” Priddy said.
Although a huge chunk of time is spent on his career, he makes it a priority to be there for his wife, Casey, and their two children, Savannah, 11, and Carter, 8.
“I love the ‘dad chores,’” said Stone, adding that he spends as much one-on-one time as possible with his kids, supporting them in their activities.
Like any proud parent, he’s involved with their softball and baseball games and is always willing to help out however he can.
“Anytime we need anything, we call Phillip,” said Sal Cagno, one of Stokesdale Recreation Association’s
coaches for Savannah’s softball team. “Nothing is too small for him. He’s something different and he’s good for the community.”
Along the way, Stone has somehow managed to fit in numerous church and community activities as well.
He grew up in Ellisboro Baptist Church, and puts God and his church at the center of his life. He serves on several church committees including finance, usher, greeter and homecoming.
But wherever he sees the opportunity to help in any other area, he’s the first to jump in.
This past year, he and Casey handled the recreation portion of Vacation Bible School, which involved planning and overseeing the games and “making sure the kids didn’t kill each other,” he joked. They were also on hand for the church’s end-of-summer event, manning water slides and bounce houses.
One of Stone’s favorite volunteer activities is helping with the church’s Christmas toy store. The church purchases toys and other items and collects donations in the weeks before Christmas. In early December, nominated families are invited to shop the store for their children. Stone enjoys being onsite helping with selections, carrying out bags and just putting smiles on people’s faces.
For the last 12 years, Stone has been a member of Northwest Guilford Kiwanis Club, an international organization that focuses on children-related programs. During that time, he’s been involved with the club’s annual golf tournament fundraiser, the Terrific Kids pro-
gram and the club’s annual Camp Carefree Cookout. The official grill master, Stone is always the first to arrive at Camp Carefree to clean the grills and the last to leave after he ensures they’re clean for the next group – leaving a place better than he finds it is just how he rolls.
Stone is also involved with the Greensboro Regional Realtors Association (GRRA), and was recently voted onto the group’s board of directors.
As part of his work with GRRA, he’s a repeat participant in the Realtors Rebuilding program, in which Realtors volunteer to rebuild and repair homes for selected homeowners who need assistance in maintaining their homes.
Stone’s schedule doesn’t allow for a lot of downtime, and he’s okay with that.
“Giving back is something I’ve always thought was important and it feels good to do it,” he said.
“You give but little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.” – Kahlil Gibran
anks to Tire Max for sponsoring this monthly feature in which we recognize “ordinary” people in our readership area who make an extraordinary impact on others. To nominate an “ordinary” person for this feature, email editor@nwobserver.com with their name, a detailed description of how they positively impact others, and your contact info.Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO Giving back “feels good,” says Phillip Stone.
( four candidates for town council will be on the Nov. 7 ballot)
Stokesdale Town Council consists of a mayor, who is elected directly by citizens to a 4-year term, and four council members who are each elected to a 4-year term on a staggered schedule.
The terms of council members Derek Foy, Jimmy Landreth and Jim Rigsbee will end this December and all three are running for re-election. Mark Nadel is also running for one of the three open seats.
Mayor Mike Crawford’s term will expire in December 2025, as will the term of council member Tim Jones.
Stokesdale had 4,729 registered voters as of January 2023. Of these, 831 were registered as Democrats; 2,134 registered as Republicans; 36 registered as Libertarians; and 1,728 were unaffiliated.
Q When is Early Voting?
A Early Voting for the upcoming Nov. 7 general election will be held from Oct. 19 to Nov. 4.
Q How do I find out where I should vote?
A During Early Voting, you can vote at any of the five early voting sites in Guilford County – two are in Greensboro, two in High Point and one in Jamestown (visit www. guilfordcountync.gov and type “Early Voting” in the Search bar for a list of early voting sites, with addresses). On Election Day, you must vote in your assigned precinct. To find out where it is, visit www. ncsbe.gov/voting/voter-toolsand-forms, scroll down and select Polling Place Search.
I have been a Stokesdale resident since 2016 and have served on the Town Council since 2020. My wife, Beth, and I love Stokesdale and feel it is the ideal place to raise our two children, Cole, 16, and Julia, 13.
Q Where do Stokesdale citizens vote on Election Day?
A Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road
Q When are polls open on Election Day?
A Polling places are open on Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 7) from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Q What will be on this year’s municipal ballot?
A Stokesdale citizens will be voting for three town council members. A sample ballot for the Nov. 7 municipal election had not yet been posted on the Board of Elections’ website as of our press time.
In 2021 I retired from the State Highway Patrol after 28 years and since then have spent a lot of my retirement time volunteering at Northwest Guilford High School for the football and lacrosse programs.
Besides my wife and children, my family includes the two sweetest dogs in town – Murphy the lab and Woodrow, a hound mix.
Since joining Stokesdale Town
Council, I have worked hard to be a voice of reason on the Council and to find solutions to challenges that satisfy the needs of all, or the majority of our citizens.
I have taken on several town-related projects since joining the Council, including upgrading the technology and backup servers at Town Hall and adding cameras in the Council chambers for streaming our meetings on YouTube.
As a council, we have worked really hard to bring improvements to our town hall and town park facilities while maintaining a nonproperty tax stance and ensuring a balanced budget. We have also found ways to reduce expenses and at the same time improve services while maintaining a strong
reserve balance in our town’s bank account.
One of my proudest accomplishments is voting for the purchase of approximately 10 acres adjacent to Stokesdale Town Hall that will allow us to expand the park in the near future.
Most recently, we were awarded a grant for close to $750,000 which we will use to install new playground equipment, make necessary repairs to some drainage issues in the park and install outdoor pickleball and basketball courts.
I respectfully ask each citizen to look at the accomplishments of this council and vote for four more years of common-sense governing.
Please consider re-electing myself, Derek Foy and Jimmy Landreth.
My name is Jimmy Landreth and I have served on the Stokesdale Town Council for the last three years and 10 months. My term is up in December and I’m running for re-election.
I’m a lifelong resident of Stokesdale and I was raised on a small tobacco farm and did farm work until I found easier ways to make money. Later I did construction work, owned a bar, a service station, an automobile sales and service, and worked as a trucking owner operator, over-the-road trucker, and in dealership sales, service and management. Each and every one of these occupations were great learning experiences.
I attended Stokesdale Elementary, Northwest Middle, Northwest High, Rockingham Community College and for a short time, UNCG.
My wife, Karen Landreth, and I have been married 36 years. She is an assistant teacher at
Stokesdale Elementary and a hair stylist at Hot Heads Hair Salon in Stokesdale. We have three sons, JP (Kelli), Kevin (Paige), Brian (Ellie), and five grandchildren, Reagan, Jackson, Savannah, Gralyn, and Micah.
Karen and I chaired Stokesdale PTA’s basketball program for five years, and I have coached or assistant coached over 30 youth basketball, baseball and football teams over the years. It has been a while, though. My oldest granddaughter informed me recently that I was coming out of retirement to coach her. We will see – better call Sal!
Before serving as a council member, I was on the town’s Ordinance Review Committee, 158 Bypass Committee, and Planning Board. I was also around for on-the-street discussions and voted for Stokesdale’s incorporation. Although there were many times I disagreed with previous councils, I admire them as a whole for putting the town in the great financial position we are in. How many towns
...continued from p. 7
in North Carolina do you know of that have what we have and operate without a property tax? It was no easy task for them, nor for the present council.
When I ran for council four years ago, I made some statements on how I intended to conduct myself. They’re listed below:
1. I would work with all council members as an independent voice.
2. I would work to keep Stokesdale property tax-free for my term and pass it to the next council.
3. I would maintain a small, limitedservices government.
4. Respect property owners’ rights.
5. Advocate to keep the budget as lean as possible.
6. I would work to expand and improve the park without going too deep into our savings.
7. I would be as open and transparent as legally possible.
8. I would not let any motion of a fellow councilman go without a second so that it could go to the floor for discussion, whether I agreed or disagreed.
9. I would work to ensure citizens would always have an opportunity to speak at the
beginning and end of every council meeting.
I feel like I have lived up to the statements I made, but not without help. One councilman, with the best intentions, can only do so much. That’s why
I have been very involved with the town’s activities since moving to Stokesdale in 2017, working on the Planning Board, the Events Committee, and the Ordinance Review Committee. Additional experience includes supporting our veterans as a volunteer for Nassau County, New York, where I worked with disabled veterans. I held a position of government liaison on Long Island, where I helped improve emergency communications systems. I was past president for one of the largest amateur radio organizations as well as a radio dispatcher at Ground Zero supporting first responders during the events of September 11, 2001.
I am a hands-on individual who believes in listening to those around me and those who have experience to help
For more information and event details follow Friends of Stokesdale on Facebook
My family has called Stokesdale home for a decade now, and we love it here. Being a native of Summerfield, I always aspired to raise a family in the northwest community. After earning my degree in Textile Management from NC State in 2001, I returned to the area and rekindled my friendship with my now-wife, Rachael. Rachael and I originally met in the first grade at Laughlin Primary School. Both of us are Northwest graduates, Class of 97. We have been married 15 years.
I’m asking you to also re-elect Derek Foy and Jim Rigsbee on Nov. 7. Not much on this list would be possible without their hard work and dedication. Let’s keep a good thing going!
make the right choices for our community. I will have an open-door policy and make sure all citizens of Stokesdale are considered when making decisions. This is our town, and we need to control our destiny and not let old school leadership dictate our future. Development is inevitable but it must be done while protecting our history and not letting our town be overrun by developers looking to make big profits at our expense. Stokesdale is a great town and I look forward to becoming a part of the team leadership to make our community the best it can be.
So, what makes Mark Nadel qualified to be a member of Stokesdale Town Council? In the 6+ years I have lived in Stokesdale I have experienced the lack of communications by some council members who either refuse to answer my correspondences, ignore me in public and have even gone so far as to tell me at a council meeting that answering an email about a specific topic would be in
...continued on p. 33
I’ve worked for the same midsize textile and engineered materials company since 2011. In 2015, I earned my master’s degree in Business Administration from Elon University.
It’s been a privilege to serve on the Town Council since 2019. Previously, I was on Stokesdale Parks & Recreation’s board of directors from 2015 to 2018. I’m an active member of Stokesdale United Methodist Church and serve on the Town Park Improvement Committee. Additionally, I help facilitate the annual Stokesdale Christmas Parade.
I love spending quality time outside with my wife, son and our golden retriever. My son and I try to get to as many NC State games as possible. We can always count on Wolfpack athletics for a character-building experience!
W i n d o w s a n d P a t i o D o o r s !
B U Y 1 , G E T 1
4 0
% O F F
MINIMUM PURCHASE OF 4
5 0 T a k e a n A d d i t i o n a l
O F F $
E A C H U N I T P U R C H A S E D
$ 0 M o n e y D o w n $ 0 I n t e r e s t $ 0 M o n t h l y P a y m e n t s for 12 months
S A V E U P T O 2 5 %
O N Y O U R E N E R G Y B I L L
KEEP THE HEAT OUT AND THE COOL AIR IN!
Solving your window problems and having a comfortable home is easy and enjoyable when you choose Renewal by Andersen. Take advantage of this great offer to save money on your window project- and help save on high energy bills for years to come!
Offer Ends October 31
Call for your FREE In-Home Consultation
336-
265-
1601
4.7 OUT OF 5 BASED ON 95,
000+
REVIEWS
"Renewal by Andersen replaced several windows on our house. The windows are very good quality. The installation went very smoothly and the installers did a great job of cleaning up after they were done.
We are extremely happy with the windows!"
ERIC G. | RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN CUSTOMER (Raleigh, NC)
Thank you to the businesses, organizations and individuals who advertise in the Northwest Observer and make it possible to provide this community resource at no charge to our readers.
Name of owner: Brian McMath
What led you to start your business?
I always had a desire to travel and started traveling with students when I began teaching. I knew in my retirement I wanted to organize trips for families and groups of any kind to anywhere. I have been traveling since 1997 with groups and learning the ropes through many different companies. I have planned many personal trips but have been planning large group trips since 2022.
What are the main services you offer?
MAC Group Travel will help create the trip of your dreams. We acquire any transportation required or desired,
whether that be airfare, charter bus, cruise, etc. We arrange accommodations per specifications of our clients. We will meticulously help organize and reserve an itinerary of sightseeing, excursions, meals and anything else the client may need or desire. Whatever the needs are, we are able to assist!
What are some of the most rewarding parts of operating a travel company?
I thoroughly enjoy researching and learning about this incredible world we live in. All cultures fascinate me, and being able to share that experience with others to broaden their horizon of the world and what exists is the most rewarding part of my business.
See ad on p. 23.
damage to property may result.
(b) Exceptions. This section shall not be construed as prohibiting discharge of a firearm:
(1) In defense of life or property;
(2) By law enforcement officers in the performance of their duty;
(3) By persons lawfully engaged in pest control; or
(4) At public or private shooting ranges or galleries.
(c) Definitions. As used in this section: Firearm means a weapon which will expel a projectile by the action of an explosive.
Shooting range or gallery means an area, either enclosed or out-of-doors, at which firearms are discharged at targets and which is designed so that projectiles fired from firearms at targets are prevented, by means of
backstops or other barriers, from going beyond the boundaries of the area.
“If the shooting is persistent (hours on end), then call about the ongoing shooting in the neighborhood so we can respond and check to see if the shooter(s) are in compliance with the county shooting ordinance,” Capt. Jared Corbett of the sheriff’s District 1 office, based in Summerfield, advised.
Corbett also asked us to remind readers that with hunting season approaching, they will hear more shooting during this season, but it shouldn’t be constant shooting like an outdoor range.
“However, if they are target practicing and are in compliance with the above-mentioned county shooting ordinance, then they are allowed to continue to target practice on their property,” he noted.
Maia is a regular at Oak Ridge’s dog park (in Oak Ridge Town Park). Shown here, she enjoys lying down under a bench with all the balls she’s gathered up at the park.
family calls this sweet goat “Grandma
Miso, a red panda, has been fostered by the Greensboro Science Center since August 2023. Brought over from the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute to get help with her social skills, Miso has become fast friends with GSC’s red panda cubs, Zuko and Azula.
Dogs are accompanying their owners everywhere these days. That’s great in many situations, but it can cause problems when owners have little regard for sanitation, safety and other issues that need to be considered when dogs are brought into businesses and other public areas.
By federal law, service dogs – also referred to as assistance dogs – are allowed, with their owners, in any public area, but this doesn’t apply to companion or emotional support dogs. Increasingly, issues have occurred when owners treat their dogs as service dogs and businesses and their employees, especially those who handle food, must turn them away.
Since moving to its new location in Stokesdale, Bi-Rite has had a surge of instances involving owners bringing in dogs that do not fall into the service category.
“A lot more people are bringing in their pets, which are obviously not service dogs,” said Jennifer Wrenn, one of the store managers. “We’ve had people lay out blankets in the bottom of the cart and put their dogs on top of it.”
She shared one disgusting incident in which a person brought in a puppy that defecated in the aisle. The irresponsible owner grabbed a spatula from a display, scooped the poop onto a food shelf and left the store.
“Service dogs and their owners don’t act this way. The people who do are making it hard for those who need their service dogs,” Wrenn said.
This issue is a hot button for one of Wrenn’s associates, who didn’t want to be identified.
He told us he’s dealt with numerous people who have tried to pass their dogs off as service dogs and he’s mystified.
“People tell us their dogs are emotional support dogs, but emotional support dogs are not service dogs,” he said. “If someone reported (to the Health Department) that we had dogs (that weren’t service dogs) in the store, we could get shut down.”
According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employees are allowed to ask two questions to determine if a dog is a service dog: “Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?” and “What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?”
The ADA specifies that “staff cannot
ask about the person’s disability, require medical documentation, require a special identification card or training documentation for the dog, or ask that the dog demonstrate its ability to perform the work or task.”
Wrenn said Bi-Rite employees are discussing this subject with customers about once a week.
“We can tell the ones who are just trying to bring their dogs in. They automatically get irate and argue with us,” she said. “The ones who have service dogs – and there are quite a few –usually just try to educate us.”
Except for individuals who seek to falsely claim ownership, most people lack awareness of the distinctions
between service dogs, emotional support dogs and companion dogs, along with their respective rights. Wrenn and her associate believe that education plays a crucial role in addressing this problem.
According to the ADA, a service dog is “any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability,” which includes physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or any other mental disability.
Service dogs are carefully selected for their temperament and are highly trained to meet the needs of their owners. They support people with such issues as sight and hearing impairments, diabetes, heart problems, seizures, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and more.
The ADA provides guidelines for the service dog and its owner, and a key requirement is that the dog must be under the control of its handler at all times.
“Service animals must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered, unless the individual’s disability prevents using these devices or these devices interfere with the service animal’s safe, effective performance of tasks. In that case, the individual must maintain control of the animal through voice, signal, or other effective controls.”
It’s interesting to note that service dogs are not specific to any breed or size.
Emotional support dogs provide therapeutic support to people with a diagnosed mental illness such as anxiety, depression or PTSD. They must have a prescription from a licensed mental health professional which states the individual has an impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities and the presence of the
dog is necessary for their mental health.
Emotional support dogs provide comfort to their individual owner and do not require special training.
The ADA does not consider emotional support dogs to be service animals, which means they are not granted the same privileges. However, the ADA allows for these dogs to join its owners in planes and in other public areas with the permission of the venue.
Under a different law, the Fair Housing Amendments Act (FHAA) permits emotional support animals in any housing – even those with no pet policies – which sometimes leads to confusion as to pet owners’ rights and their belief that their animals can accompany them anywhere.
Finally, there are the companion dogs, which are essentially pets. These dogs have no ADA benefits and can only go into public areas and business which allow them. Businesses like Tractor Supply and Home Depot welcome these canines and their owners.
While there are existing regulations, owners’ disregard for them will perpetuate problems. Currently, business owners have limited authority to address the issue effectively.
Meet Ladybug, a mini lop rabbit. This tiny queen is about 2 years old. She was the victim of a hoarding case and was being housed with another rabbit and two guinea pigs.
Ladybug is the perfect combination of sweet and spicy. She loves being cuddled but hates being picked up. She loves playing and chasing you but hates being chased back. She has showed no signs of aggression, just an occasional back leg thump. She does well with older kids (7 and up) and other animals as long as they respect her boundaries.
Scooby Dooby Doo is an adorable 1-year-old hound mix who came to Red Dog Farm when his previous owner’s other dog wasn’t so excited to have a new brother. Scooby is a playful pup who loves spending his time with people and other dogs. He has already been crate-trained and our foster is working with him on completing housebreaking.
Just like the cartoon, the real life Scooby is a happy-go-lucky guy. If you love hounds and are looking for a loving and goofy new companion, we found him just for you!
If you are interested in learning more about Ladybug, Scooby Dooby Doo or any of our other adoptable animals, please visit www.reddogfarm.com to fill out an adoption application.
Meet Officer Shabby, a 4.5-year-old domestic medium-hair who’s ready to walk his beat in your loving home. At 9 pounds, this guy meets all the department’s physical requirements (he’s even been neutered already) for going on patrol. All he needs is ... you and your loving home! Please ask for Officer Shabby by ID# GCASA-12584.
Who could resist those eyes? Meet Elmer, a 48-pound bulldog mix. At 3.5 years old, this guy may be medium in size, but he has a huge heart and lots of love to give his new “fur-ever” family. Elmer is a good walker, playful and motivated by toys and treats (who isn’t?). Please ask for him by ID# GCAS-A-12273.
980 Guilford College Road, Greensboro • Walk-in adoptions: Wed-Sun, 12-4pm
To check animals’ availability or make surrender appointments, call (336) 641-3400 or visit www.guilfordcountync.gov/our-county/animal-services
A barn owl’s ears are lopsided, allowing it to pinpoint sounds in the dark. The left ear listens for sounds below, while the right ear listens for sounds above!
ank you to Greensboro Science Center for sponsoring this issue’s Kids’ Korner
• What’s an owl pellet? Barn owls eat mostly voles, shrews, mice and sometimes rats. ey usually swallow their food whole – bits of fur and bone are then regurgitated (coughed up) as an owl pellet.
• Screech! Barn owls never hoot, they screech!
• On the prowl. Barn owls hunt in total darkness. eir wings don’t make any noise while they y and they have remarkable hearing, which makes them capable of picking up the faintest of noises. Amazingly, they can nd prey underneath covers like grass and snow while ying in the air.
• A lovely face. e barn owl has a very distinctive heart-shaped face; the shape of their faces helps to funnel sound towards their ears.
• A light creature. While the barn owl is about the size of a small cat, it only weighs 0.5 to 1.6 pounds. Find
• Around the world. Barn owls are found on all continents except Antarctica, making them one of the most widely distributed birds in the world. ey can live in many di erent types of habitats and altitudes, including deserts, grasslands, forests, agricultural elds and urban areas.
Since this is an off-year election, Oak Ridge voters will only be voting for Oak Ridge Town Council candidates. Five Oak Ridge candidates will be on the Nov. 7 ballot, and voters will elect three of them.
Oak Ridge Town Council has five members, each elected to a 4-year staggered term. The terms of council members Martha Pittman and George McClellan will expire this December and they are both running for re-election. Additionally, Jim Harton, Mike Stone and Mike Greeson are running for election. (Spencer Sullivan was appointed in April 2022 to serve the remainder of Councilman Doug Nodine’s term after Nodine resigned from the council due to health issues; Sullivan is not running for election so will step off the council when his term expires in December).
Oak Ridge citizens do not directly elect the town’s mayor, rather the mayor is elected by the town council at the December meeting after newly elected, or newly re-elected, candidates have been sworn into office.
BELEWS LAKE TOWNHOME
1006 Eastshore Circle, Stokesdale
As of January 2023, the Town of Oak Ridge had 6,181 registered voters. Of these, 1,133 were registered as Democrats; 2,730 registered as Republicans; 34 registered as Libertarians; and 2,284 registered as unaffiliated.
Q When is Early Voting?
A Early Voting for the upcoming Nov. 7 general election will be held from Oct. 19 to Nov. 4.
Q How do I find out where I should vote?
A During Early Voting, you can vote at any of the five early voting sites in Guilford County – two are in Greensboro, two in High Point and one in Jamestown (visit www.guilfordcountync. gov and type “Early Voting” in
the Search bar for a list of early voting sites, with addresses). On Election Day, you must vote in your assigned precinct. To find out where it is, visit www.ncsbe. gov/voting/voter-tools-andforms, scroll down and select Polling Place Search.
Q Where do Oak Ridge citizens vote on Election Day?
A OR1: Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road, or OR2: Oak Ridge United Method-
ist Church, 2424 Oak Ridge Road
Q When are polls open on Election Day?
A Polling places are open on Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 7) from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Q What will be on this year’s municipal ballot?
A native North Carolinian whose rural roots run deep, I am married with three adult children and three awesome grandkids. My husband Benny and I love traveling, camping, hiking and kayaking. We attend The Summit Church – Oak Ridge and share our home with two Labrador retrievers – Kyra and Dakota.
Professionally, I am a NC certified public accountant (CPA) with 24 years of experience working with individuals and businesses as a trusted advisor on business planning and management as well as taxation. I recently retired from public practice but continue to fulfill education requirements and stay current on accounting, finance and business management matters.
Always an active volunteer, retirement has allowed me to devote even more time to serving my community. I believe that service to others lends purpose to our lives. In addition to currently serving Oak Ridge on the Town Council and as liaison to several Town committees, I also volunteer in our community as a member of Northwest Guilford Kiwanis Club and Oak Ridge Garden Club. Our Kiwanis Club supports local children and youth programming like Terrific Kids, Key
A Oak Ridge citizens will be voting for three town council members. A sample ballot for the Nov. 7 municipal election had not yet been posted on the Board of Elections’ website as of our press time.
For more voting information, visit www.guilfordcountync.gov/ our-county/board-of-elections
Club, Odessey of the Mind, and Camp Carefree. With Garden Club, I especially enjoy our workdays at our adopted community gardens.
Oak Ridge needs experienced leaders with integrity and vision who understand who we are as a community, will do the work necessary to make informed decisions, and will work well with others.
As a small-government and localauthority proponent, I believe local elected officials must be responsive and accountable to constituents. Fighting to ensure that small towns like Oak Ridge retain the authority to make their own decisions based on the needs of residents is a high priority for me. In the current political climate, “keeping it local” takes on new meaning.
As a CPA, I understand the importance of low taxes and fiscal responsibility to the financial health of Oak Ridge. We need to continue leveraging local tax dollars with grants, demand budgetary efficiency, and balance costs vs benefits in project management.
I am committed to investing in our future to ensure livability and public safety. When re-elected, I will continue to champion trails and sidewalks, safe and reliable municipal water for fire suppression and residents, and parks with expanded facilities.
Part of planning for the future is
...continued from p. 17
ensuring the preservation of our historic rural identity. On Council, I support our Historic Preservation Commission and our Conservation Easements Committee as we work together to protect the integrity of our historic district, preserve our historic structures, and conserve our open spaces and land.
Meaningful conversations are key to effective leadership. Listening and responding to residents is both rewarding and challenging. Fostering strong relationships between the Town and other community organizations is
COUNCILWOMAN MARTHA PITTMAN:
• Serves as Council liaison to Finance, Mountains to Sea, and Conservation Easement Committees
• Listens and responds to Oak Ridge residents’ questions and concerns.
• Uses her experience as a CPA to foster sound fiscal policy.
• Champions local trails and volunteers with the MST taskforce.
• Supports projects that ensure livability and safety for our citizens: sidewalk extensions and intersection improvements, expanded Town Park facilities and Heritage Farm Park construction, safe and reliable water for fire suppression and residents, and the Veterans Honor Green.
• Advocates for the preservation of open space and natural areas.
• Fights to protect the unique rural and historical character of our town while planning and preparing for the future.
• Does her homework and makes informed decisions.
I was born in Guilford County, have been a resident of Oak Ridge for 15 years and am married to local attorney Susan Greeson. Our daughter is a graduate of Northwest High School and our son is an Oak Ridge Military Academy graduate.
I was an established baseball talent for Southeast Guilford High School. I enjoyed an accomplished career as an outside sales representative for James M. Pleasants Company for 26 years before retiring in 2009. I served as vice president of Mt. Hope Athletic Association for 10 years and I helped raise significant funds to purchase land and build additional fields for the youth.
I’m an avid UNC fan and fond of sports, but I’m also a true community man who possesses a keen interest in our local political endeavors. My heart resides here in Oak Ridge where I feel charged to represent all voices in the best interests of my hometown.
This election is not the time to sleep on issues at the hand of Oak Ridge Town
another high priority.
Having lived in Oak Ridge for 23 years, I have seen it grow and mature from a crossroads community into the uniquely wonderful town that we all love. I feel privileged to have been part of Oak Ridge governance for the last six years – four on Town Council and two as MST Committee co-chair. I am seeking re-election because our work is not finished, and I believe that I have the experience, expertise, vision and leadership qualities necessary to protect and prepare Oak Ridge for the future.
Council. I hope to challenge citizens to become engaged on a level that is most meaningful and efficient to our hometown. I do not agree with all persons currently elected or running for town council seats; however, I do have respect for most who have the courage to lead in our local community.
Typical political pedigrees are impressive, but one won’t deny the success in having diversified voices on a “task force” appointed to serve their town. Simplified and transparent governance can only benefit our residents and families. Important decisions cannot continue to be administered by the same persons and families year after year. From smaller, less impactful decisions like the management of Music in the Park to the stewardship of tremendous state grants, my fear is that we’ve hit a stagnant note in our town’s operations. Our constituents’ opinions and investments are becoming less regarded in favor of what some personally may feel is best for Oak Ridge. These minorities, while well-intentioned, do not appropriately reflect what the majority of our townspeople desire for Oak Ridge.
Among my key issues:
• Transparency between our Council and constituents;
• Voting for projects to include community commentary first and then the Council votes – not the converse;
• Supporting established Oak Ridge institutions, including Oak Ridge Youth
Association (as an asset requiring all the town support it can receive) and Oak Ridge Military Academy (being among the oldest military academies in the nation and deserving an environment that appreciates it as the national treasure it has become);
• Funding priorities – a key example being the Redmon House – that stands to garner considerable funds that could
I am a U.S. Air Force veteran and an Eagle Scout. I work as a senior operations manager for one of the largest packaging manufacturers in the U.S., with annual revenues of over $6 billion. Having worked for the company for over 40 years in multiple positions including production superintendent, plant manager and senior quality manager, my business experience is one of delivering low-cost, high-quality results to our customers and stockholders. The monthly budget at my Greensboro facility is larger than the entire annual town budget, so I understand the need for sound, conservative fiscal decisions.
I am a former Town Council member and former vice-chairman of the Planning and Zoning Board. While serving
be allocated to parts of Oak Ridge that possess greater fiscal priority.
I respectfully petition the citizens of Oak Ridge to support me in helping me to lower our taxes and to responsibly allocate our generous resources. Proudly not a career politician, I invite opportunities to hold conversations with you, your neighborhoods, and our communities so that I can best represent Oak Ridge residents.
as a member of the Town Council, I worked to enact the only tax decrease in our town’s history. I currently serve on Oak Ridge Military Academy’s Board of Trustees and I’m president of Preservation Oak Ridge Foundation.
I’m a lifelong resident of the area and grew up here when farms outnumbered neighborhoods. I understand and support our historic roots. I am a strong supporter of Oak Ridge Youth Association and count them as one of the most valueadded groups we have in our community.
My goal is to maintain our smalltown, historic character through slow, low-density growth. I believe it’s critically important to return fiscally conservative principles to the town’s spending decisions and rein in the increased spending being made during these inflationary times.
I intend to return integrity and full transparency to the citizens of Oak Ridge. Too often, Town Council discussions and decisions are made behind closed doors or in private discussions
... continued on p. 38
I’ve lived in Oak Ridge for 20 years and have served since 2011 on the Oak Ridge Town Council, including two years as mayor pro tem. I love living in Oak Ridge and am proud to serve our town. In my capacity as a council member, I served as Council’s representative on the Steering Committee for the town’s
In 2016 I retired and moved back to Oak Ridge. Since then, I have been engaged in many projects, committees and boards in town and beyond. My initial project was the renovation of our home, an 1880s farmhouse and five outbuildings.
In Oak Ridge, I have been engaged with two boards and two committees
Comprehensive Pedestrian Transportation Plan, which continues to guide efforts to increase the safety and walkability of our town. I’ve also represented Council in a host of other meetings, both internally and externally. Prior to being on Council, I served on our Finance Committee, which develops the town’s annual budget, and on our town’s first Historic Preservation Commission. I was also the first president and a founding member of Preservation Oak Ridge Foundation.
Currently, I’m active in Oak Ridge Methodist Church and a member of Oak Ridge Lions Club. I make it a priority to attend each of the many community events
... continued on p. 38
– Preservation Oak Ridge (treasurer and board member); Oak Ridge Fire Department Board; Town of Oak Ridge’s Finance Committee and Water Advisory Committee (chairman). Beyond town limits, I have been actively engaged with Wake Forest University’s Board of Visitors and an alumni group that advises the chemistry department chair and mentors students.
As the former senior North American executive for a major European chemical firm, I understand the importance of strategic planning, fiscal responsibility and effective communications, which require
... continued on p. 39
One-of-a-kind setting on a private 2+ acre cul-de-sac. Rural charm close to modern convenience. Welcoming southern front porch invites you into this beautiful home. Move-in ready, well-kept by original owner, eat-in kitchen opens into living room & formal dining room, primary and secondary bedrooms on second floor, private back deck. Make it yours
More
Landscaping & Nursery (336) 288-8893
Don’t let anything stop you from getting a great smile, which can give you confidence, but may be hard to afford. We offer 0% financing for orthodontics, so you can get the smile you want without breaking the bank. Whether you need braces, Invisalign, or any other treatment, we have the right option for you. At our private practice, you will get personalized attention from our experienced doctors. Call or text today!
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.
Thomas Orrell, junior football
What is your role on the football team/ what position do you play?
I help get the defense correctly aligned and make sure we are ready before the snap of the ball. I play linebacker. When did you first start playing football? In eighth grade.
What’s one of your favorite memories of playing football? Getting my first sack against Mossy Creek Middle School.
Who is your favorite football player (amateur or pro), and why? Troy Polamalu (played 12 years for Pittsburgh Steelers) because he played all across the field and gave the maximum effort possible.
Do you have a “coach-ism” to share – i.e., something that one of your coaches has stressed over and over? Our head coach Chris Rusiewicz always tells us that he is “not that smart” and that’s always been pretty funny to all the guys!
Who has helped you the most to develop your football skills? I think I owe a lot of my football talent to the seniors of my freshman year – theytaught me a lot of things that I would have not thought about – and to all the coaches over the years who have taught me things that will help my play develop as I grow.
How do you get hyped up before a football game? Just being in the locker room with all of my fellow teammates and having a speaker to listen to music!
Do you play any other sports? Lacrosse.
Favorite subject in high school? Social studies.
What do you like to do in your spare time? I love helping my dad with building cars and working out!
What’s something about you that a lot of people don’t know? Before football, I used to play in the band! What do you hope to do after you graduate high school? I would love to continue playing football, while earning a degree in kinesiology.
What position do you play on the football team? Wide receiver. What’s one of your earliest memories of playing football? Catching a game-winning touchdown when I was 9.
What’s one of your favorite memories of playing football? Coming back and beating Watauga in the state playoffs. Who is your favorite football player (amateur or pro), and why? Marvin Harrison Jr. (plays for the Ohio State buckeyes), the best wide receiver in college football.
Is there something that one of your coaches has stressed over and over? Just to keep playing and dominate. Who has helped you the most to develop your football skills? My dad is my trainer.
How do you get hyped up before a football game? Listen to music.
Favorite subject in high school? History.
What do you like to do in your spare time? Be with family.
What’s something about you that a lot of people don’t know? I like to sing. What do you hope to do after you graduate high school? Play college football.
Jesus Ugarte, junior band
What instrument do you play, and how long have you played? I play trumpet and I have been in band since sixth grade. I started doing marching band last year.
What’s one of the lessons you’ve learned through your involvement with band? Playing in the first concer t in sixth grade showed me that you have to pay attention, play when you're told to play and always listen and watch both the music and the conductor so that everything will go well.
Do you have a “band-ism” to share –
i.e., something that one of your band instructors has stressed over and over? Every school year Mr. McMath always says, “All I ask is that you try” –this shows that even when we make mistakes, we’re still trying. And then he also says, “Press save” and “Circle it in blood” so we don't forget to mark something in our music.
Who has helped you the most to develop your band skills? My high school band directors (Mr. McMath and Mr. Brooks).
Do you get hyped up before a performance? Yes, when a concert or performance day is close by, I feel that excitement of wanting to play and have a really good time.
What’s the best part about being a band member? You meet new people in the band, you create music that impresses lots of people, and when you’re into band, it feels like a dream because you’re creating music that’s relaxing or exciting.
Are you involved in any other extracurricular activities? Besides marching band, I play in the jazz band.
Favorite subject in high school? Band!! Because it's just what I've enjoyed doing for the past couple of years that I don't feel like ever quitting and giving up.
What do you like to do in your spare time? I play and practice my instruments to relieve stress, ride my bike to get some fresh air, and rest.
What’s something about you that not everyone knows? I like to sing on a karaoke speaker at home when I'm bored, I listen to Mexican music and I dance to Mexican culture music which I enjoy because I'm Hispanic.
Do you know yet what you hope to do after you graduate high school? Go to college and major in something related to music, because it's a passion of mine.
...student profiles continued on p.24
15-17
Depart from Northwest High School on Friday, Dec. 15, at 9 p.m. on a Holiday tours bus and arrive in NYC the next morning; spend the day shopping, dining, taking in a Broadway show, or anything else you’d like to do; leave NYC at 11 p.m. on Saturday and arrive back home around noon on Sunday, Dec. 17.
For more info or to reserve your seat by Oct. 20, visit:
What position do you play on Northern’s football team?
Wide receiver
What’s one of your earliest memories of playing football? One of my earliest memories of playing football was playing around in the street with my childhood friends.
How about a favorite memory of playing football? It was in my sophomore year, when I got my first varsity touchdown in my first game.
Do you have a favorite football player (amateur or pro?) Marvin Harrison Jr. (plays wide receiver for the Ohio State Buckeyes), because he’s a great
example of how the wide receiver position should be played.
Do you have a coach-ism” to share –i.e., something that your coaches have stressed over and over? “Practice how you play, because how you practice is how you will determine how you play in a game.”
Who has helped you the most to develop your football skills? My receiver coach Tré has helped me develop as a receiver ever since he’s been here, and also Coach and AD (Chase) Cochran. How do you get hyped up before a game? I’ll usually just turn up with my guys before the game starts and we hype each other up.
Do you play any other sports? I played basketball before, but I don’t really play any other sports now. Favorite subject in high school? American history
How do you enjoy spending your spare time? If I’m not training, I’ll probably just spend the day with my family or play video games.
NEWLY EXPANDED! 2019-2023 graduates from any Guilford County high school (public, private, or registered home-school) are eligible.
Benefits:
• In-state tuition and college/course fees are 100% covered.
• $500,000 is available for full-time or part-time enrollment at GTCC.
What’s something about you that many people don’t know? I’m a big nature guy. I love nature and I listen to a lot of R&B.
Do you know yet what you want to do after graduating high school? I plan to continue my football career for as long as I can and be able to provide for my family.
Franklin Lewis, senior football
What position do you play on the football team? Middle linebacker, outside linebacker and running back. What’s one of your earliest memories of playing football? I was 8 years old and I remember being on the field, not knowing what I was doing and not knowing my
own strengths or capabilities. What’s one of your favorite memories of playing football? The sideline talks with my fellow players and coaches and our pre-game rituals.
Who has helped you the most to develop your football skills? My dad, Coach G, and my uncle have helped me develop my football skills.
How do you get hyped up before a football game? I listen to music and imagine the plays I’ll make when I get on the field.
Favorite subject in high school? History What do you like to do in your spare time? Play video games and hang out with loved ones.
What’s something about you that not everyone knows? I like ketchup on my Bojangles biscuits.
Do you know yet what you hope to do after you graduate high school? I would like to go to college and get a degree in computer science and continue to play football.
What is FAME USA?
The Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) provides global-best workforce development, combining a cutting-edge curriculum with paid, on-the-job training.
Benefits:
• Earn while you learn and graduate potentially debt-free!
• Gain an Associate of Science degree, plus an Advanced Manufacturing Technician certification.
• After graduating, start your career right away or transfer seamlessly to a four-year university.
Anyone associated with the band since its inception is invited to participate
Article by Matthew Harris, with input from Jenn Feltis, NWHS band alumna, and Patti Stokes, Northwest Observer
Northwest Guilford High School's band program holds a unique and cherished place in my heart, spanning three generations of my family's involvement
since 1984. This legacy of excellence is not exclusive to my family but extends to many others who have carried the torch of musical and marching excellence for decades.
While researching the program's history, I uncovered a significant gap in
available recordings of the band's halftime shows, especially spanning from 1987 to 2006. Alumni from that era lacked access to these performances, and I felt compelled to embark on a mission to recover these lost treasures.
Over the past year, with the invaluable assistance of friends in the archival and film industry, I have successfully located and preserved many of these performances in high-quality format. This endeavor is a tribute to the program that has had a profound impact on my life and a way to give back.
The origins of Northwest's band program trace back to 1962 when Mr. Frank Wilson taught the first band class. The marching band, under the leadership of Mrs. Evalyn Grant, was formed in 1964. Notably, from 1970 to 1975, Dr. John McAllister, a graduate of App State, led the marching band to numerous local competitions, achieving significant success and setting the stage for the program's future triumphs.
However, it was in 1975, under the direction of Tommy Smith, that the program truly flourished. Smith introduced a more contemporary corps style, including a color guard, and incorporated challenging musical repertoires and innovative drill formations, setting Northwest apart from other high school marching bands in the region.
During the early days of Tommy Smith's leadership, the band participated in local competitions, consistently impressing both competitors and audiences with their performances.
What sets Northwest apart today is its enduring legacy as a band program. Despite changes in leadership over the years, the program has consistently maintained its reputation for musical and marching excellence.
With these discoveries in mind, the idea of commemorating this rich legacy emerged. This idea evolved into plans for a grand band alumni reunion, celebrating a music program that has thrived for the entirety of the school's 61-year history. Jenn Feltis, a Northwest
alumna and former drum major, enthusiastically joined forces with me to bring this vision to life.
Our planning efforts have been inclusive, involving a diverse planning board comprising alumni and former band staff members. We have been meeting weekly to coordinate every aspect of the event, ensuring its success.
We would be remiss not to acknowledge the passing of fellow Northwest alumnus Jesse Pitonzo and the beloved former band director Tommy Smith. Their memories will be honored during our presentation on Friday, Oct. 27.
Now, about the event itself: The two-day multi-generational Northwest Viking Band Reunion will take place on Oct. 27-28 at Northwest High School. Former marchers, band boosters, instructors, and anyone connected to the band in any way are encouraged to join us on one or both days.
On Oct. 27, the event will feature a catered dinner, a presentation, a silent auction, and a social gathering that reflects on the program's history and reunites old friends at the high school. Check-in will be from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m., followed by the presentation.
On Oct. 28, Northwest's Viking Band will host its annual Fall Festival marching band competition, commencing around noon. Throughout the day, an alumni tent will provide a space for people to socialize.
This reunion promises to be a heartwarming celebration of Northwest Guilford High School’s band program, honoring its enduring legacy of excellence while reuniting generations of musicians, educators, and supporters who have made it all possible.
To register for this memorable event, please visit nwvikingband.org/ nwreunion, where you can find a registration form and a PayPal link to purchase tickets. Registration forms and payments are due Oct. 20, and checks should be made out to NWBB.
Sept. 18 l Law enforcement officers responded to a reported domestic dispute in the 7500 block of Auburnwood Drive in Summerfield (off Oak Ridge Road).
Sept. 18 l A physical altercation was reported in the 5800 block of Autumn Gate Drive in Summerfield (off Oak Ridge Road).
Sept. 23 l A physical altercation was reported in the 7800 block of Thomas Road in Stokesdale (near U.S. 158).
Sept. 25 l Officers responded to a reported assault in the 8300 block of Point Oak Drive in Colfax (off N. Bunker Hill Road).
Oct. 1 l A 40-year-old male was arrested in the 6500 block of Horseman Trail in Summerfield (off Strawberry Road) for assault on a female
Sept. 20 l A death investigation was conducted in the 7100 block of Strawberry Road in Summerfield.
Sept. 27 l A death investigation was conducted in the 5200 block of Millstone Road in Oak Ridge (off Stafford Mill Road).
Sept. 22 l Officers responded to a fentanyl overdose in the 5400 block of Union Grove Road in Summerfield (near Oak Ridge Road).
Sept. 27 l Officers seized two grams of methamphetamine in the 5000 block of Laurinda Drive in northwest Greensboro (off U.S. 220 N).
Sept. 25 l A member of Oak Ridge United Methodist Church reported that between Sept. 1 and Sept. 25 the church was defrauded of $6,373 via forged checks.
Sept. 26 l Officers recovered a vehicle that had been stolen out of Greensboro in the parking lot of Oak Ridge Commons.
Ensuring the safety of our 70,000 students while they are in school and the 39,000 students that ride the school bus riders is of utmost importance to me.
As a candidate for the Guilford County Board of Education’s District 3 representative, I understand a secure learning environment is the foundation upon which all education is built. Our children should feel physically and emotionally safe when they walk through the doors of their schools. When students feel secure, they are more likely to engage in their studies, build positive relationships, and achieve their full potential. is sense of safety supports their academic growth and nurtures their overall well-being.
Here are some of the signi cant safety improvements the School Board recently implemented:
1. EVOLV security screeners at all comprehensive high schools. Middle schools are also getting screeners.
2. Added 7,545 new advanced technology cameras for all schools, 1,840 cameras upgraded, and 598 bus cameras upgraded to alert authorities, school security and school adminstration of any suspicion activity.
Sept. 18 l An employee of Curiosity Games LLC in Summerfield reported that at 4:50 a.m. an unknown suspect forced entry through the front door and stole several items including five Nintendo Switch gaming systems, a currency counter, cash register with $1,000 cash, laptop, PlayStation 5 and three Xbox gaming systems, worth over $6,200 altogether.
Sept. 19 l An employee of Priority One Auto Sales in Stokesdale reported at 12:39 a.m. an unknown suspect stole a gray 2006 Chevy Silverado.
Sept. 24 l A resident of the 1200 block of Pleasant Ridge Road in northwest Greensboro reported that while she was on vacation an unknown sus...Crime continued on p. 28
3. Event security improvements that include a clear bag policy, security screeners and more event sta ;
4. Deployment of anonymous reporting platform called CrisisGO;
5. Enhanced vestibules in schools, updated classroom door locks; ….to view all of the many changes we’ve made, please visit: https://www.gcsnc.com/Domain/2436
ese measures collectively re ect the School Board’s commitment to creating a safe and nurturing educational environment for everyone in Guilford County Schools. I rmly believe that when we invest in the safety of our children, we are investing in the future of our community. By prioritizing their safety in our schools, we are not only protecting them today but also shaping a brighter and more promising tomorrow.
has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest/northern Guilford County ...
CRIME..continued from p. 27
pect entered her home and stole 14 items including a hedge trimmer, leaf blower, desktop computer, fire safe and more, worth $6,000 altogether; the suspect also stole her vehicle, but it was later recovered along with a stolen firearm.
Sept. 25 l Officers responded to a report of a trail camera worth $100 that was stolen from the 2800 block of Oak Ridge Road in Oak Ridge.
Sept. 27 l A resident of the 6000 block of Thistle Trace in northwest Greensboro (near U.S. 220 N) reported an unknown suspect stole a phone case and a pack of chewing gum.
Sept. 27 l A resident of the 8400 block of Linville Road in Oak Ridge reported an unknown suspect stole his gray 2022 Volkswagen Jetta SE, which also contained $150 cash.
...continued from p. 3
“These modifications would impact the overall vision of the project as approved by Town Council.’’
If the council decides to rebid the project, staff would identify more appropriate cost modifications, Bruce said. Then, the town would seek bids for the modified plan, as well as for a plan excluding the boardwalk section of the veterans’ site planned for Heritage Farm Park.
If the council approves the plan without the boardwalk, that component could be added later, Bruce noted. …
In other business on Oak Ridge Town Council’s Oct. 5 meeting agenda, the council will consider approving construction plans for the elevated water storage tank and water line to serve the Oak Ridge Fire Department. If approved, town staff would submit the plans to the state Department of
Sept. 29 l A resident of the 7900 block of Alcorn Road/Edgefield Road in northwest Greensboro reported a known suspect vandalized his vehicle, causing $200 worth of damage.
Sept. 18 l Officers seized four firearms and three magazines of ammunition in the 4400 block of Stafford Glen Court in Oak Ridge (off Stafford Mill Road).
Environmental Quality for construction permits, according to Bruce.
Once permits are obtained and the town finishes negotiating its watersupply agreement with Winston-Salem/ Forsyth County Utilities, staff can proceed with bidding the project for construction, he said.
The council will also consider approving Oak Ridge’s participation in the N.C. Statewide Mutual Aid Agreement, adding Carriage Cove Drive and Felloes Court to the state-maintained system of roads, and re-appointing Teresa Barbery to the Mountains-toSea Trail Committee.
The 7 p.m. meeting at Town Hall this Thursday, Oct. 5, is open to the public. The meeting will be livestreamed on the town’s YouTube channel. For more information, visit www.oakridgenc.com.
In case of inclement weather, this event will be held in the Family Life Center at Oak Ridge United Methodist Church. (No beer or wine served)
z Historic walking tours l Town of Oak Ridge Historic Preservation Committee will host walking tours of the east end and the west end of Oak Ridge’s historic district on Saturday, Oct. 14, and Saturday, Oct. 21. The tours are free, but space is limited; register by calling Town Hall at (336) 644-7009, or email info@oakridgenc.com. Learn more at www. oakridgenc.com.
THURSDAY, OCT. 5
z Special called meeting l Summerfield Town Council and Planning Board will hold a special-called joint meeting Oct. 5, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Summerfield First Baptist Church, 2300 Scalesville Road. The purpose is to consider adding an “OSM-V” district (Open Space Multi-Use-Village) to the Town of Summerfield’s UDO. More info: (336) 643-8655.
OCT. 9 & 11
z Blood drives l Oak Ridge United Methodist Church at 2424 Oak Ridge Road will host a Red Cross blood drive Oct. 9, 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. Moorehead UMC at 3214 Horse Pen Creek Road in northwest Greensboro will also host a blood drive Oct. 11, 2:30 to 7 p.m. Walk-ins welcome but appointments appreciated – to make an appointment, visit www.redcrossblood.org and search for the zip code “27310” for Oak Ridge or “27410” for Greensboro.
MONDAY, OCT. 9
z Northwest Guilford Woman’s Club l Northwest Guilford Woman’s Club (NGWC) will meet Oct. 9,
starting at 7 p.m. To learn more about NGWC or to attend the meeting as a guest, contact Tiffany Hansen, president, at (336) 404-8038 or email tiffanykhansen96@gmail.com.
OCT. 10, 12 & 19
z Senior programs | Senior Resources of Guilford County will sponsor a senior program from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon on Oct. 10 at Shady Grove Wesleyan Church (119 N. Bunker Hill Road in Colfax); on Oct. 12 at Stokesdale United Methodist Church (8305 Loyola Drive); and on Oct. 19 at Summerfield First Baptist Church (2300 Scalesville Road). To learn more and/or RSVP, call (336) 373-4816, ext. 265.
TUESDAY, OCT. 10
z Town Council meeting l Summerfield Town Council will hold its regular monthly meeting on Oct. 10, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Summerfield Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road. Visit www. summerfieldnc.gov for a meeting agenda.
THURSDAY, OCT. 12
z Town Council meeting l Stokesdale Town Council will meet Oct. 12, starting at 7 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. Visit www. stokesdale.org for a meeting agenda and/or a link to join the meeting via Zoom.
SATURDAY, OCT. 14
z Bridge to the Ridge l Oak Ridge Military Academy at 2317 Oak Ridge Road will host “Bridge to the Ridge” Oct. 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (this event was rescheduled from Sept. 23 due to inclement weather). Learn more at www.oakridgemilitary.com/ bridge-to-the-ridge.
z Music in the Park l Town of Oak Ridge will host its last Music in the Park event this year on Oct. 14
at Oak Ridge Town Park Amphitheater, 6231 Lisa Drive. See display ad on p. 28 for more info.
z 200th anniversary party l There will be a lawn party at the Charles Benbow House at 2030 Oak Ridge Road to celebrate its 200th anniversary on Oct. 15, 4 to 7 p.m. Purchase tickets in advance for $20 each by calling Town Hall at (336) 6447009, or pay $25 at the door. Learn more at www. oakridgenc.com. Rain date: Oct. 22.
z Kiwanis Club l Kiwanis Club of Northwest Guilford will meet Oct. 17, starting at 12 noon at Bill’s Pizza, 1431 N.C. 68 in Oak Ridge. More info: nwgkiwanis@gmail.com.
z Cruise-In l JPC Monroe will sponsor the last cruise-in for this year Oct. 17, about 4:30 p.m. to dusk at Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center (weather permitting). To participate, just show up and you will be directed to a parking spot.
z Northwest Guilford VFW l Northwest Guilford VFW will meet Oct. 17, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Summerfield Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road. More info: Andy Schlosser, (336) 456-2199, or Rick Dunlap, (336) 601-0941.
Share
email: grinsandgripes@nwobserver.com
Grins & Gripes are published based on available space and editor’s discretion.
The NWHS librarian, administrators and Friends of the Library program. The library, books, games, computers, snacks and after-school programs all need to be maintained, and the $10 donation isn’t enough. Students love spending quality time there with staff and their friends.
O.R. Swim Club for quickly resolving the issue that was “griped” about previously. It looks wonderful! Please keep it up, especially during the growing season. You are a great example to our community.
All my fellow leaf blowers. It’s time to break out the backpack blowers and annoy the neighbors once again!
Summerfield Dentistry for accommodating a last-minute, after-hours dental emergency needed for a planned trip out of state. They are great people and really came through for me!
Gas stations like Quality Mart on N.C. 68 that let you press the second button from the top on the right of the screen to mute the annoying, loud ads at the pump.
Chase Michaels and New Hope Medical staff for the wonderful care they give my son and daughter. My daughter has been very sick and Chase went the extra mile to take care of her. Thanks for loving your job and your patients!
My friends, colleagues, church members, and our Northwest Observer readers who have showered me (and my husband) with so much loving support as I go through the rigors of chemotherapy. You lift my spirits when I am down!
Oak Ridge Elementary School teachers and staff for keeping our kids safe while they’re getting in and out of cars in the car rider line each day!
Folks who know that funding for local schools comes from the Guilford County School Board, not local towns. Considering how many of our property tax dollars go to schools, this seems appropriate!
BSA Troop 600 and their Scoutmaster, Mike Matzinger, who helped the Summerfield Historical Committee clean the Hopewell Church cemetery in preparation for our Ground Penetrating Radar Study. Your support is much appreciated.
The young man at the window of Wendy’s in Oak Ridge who gave me a pumpkin spice frosty at no charge. That was a very kind gesture and it was appreciated.
Oak Ridge Fire & EMS for their quick response on the morning of Wednesday, Sept. 27. I was in full cardiac arrest and they got me to the hospital in record time to save my life!
Kings Crossing Animal Hospital on your 10-year anniversary, and a huge thank you to Dr. Fuller for your outstanding compassion and care through the past decade.
Friday, October 6, 7:30pm
Summerfield Athletic Park (soccer field)
• Gate opens 6:30pm, Bella Ballerina dancing 6:45pm, movie 7:30pm.
• Free parking. Bring a blanket and invite friends! (Sorry, but no dogs.)
JP Grading for their great work in my yard. I found an ad in a previous NWO and wanted to support a local business. They did not disappoint... highly recommend!
Stokesdale Veterinary Hospital staff for their empathy and compassion when we had to lay our beloved Scottish terrier, Doobie, to rest. We will forever be grateful for their kindness during such a difficult time.
The teachers and staff working carpool at Greensboro Academy. You do a great job keeping our kids safe and keeping things moving.
Drivers of big trucks that are halfsquatted with loud, aggravating mufflers, illegal lighting and a stupid decal with the owner’s zip code. Northwest Guilford has now become known for these, and it’s not something to be proud of!
Summerfield Town Council candidates Linda Wendelken, Heath Clay, Teresa Perryman and Jonathan Hamilton, for prostituting yourselves for a free full page ad in Summerfield Scoop, a “media source” that surfaces every two years to promote a political agenda and certain candidates.
To the person griping about home values because their neighbor’s property looks like “Hee-Haw.” Just tell them
to hire the beautiful women that garden in sports bras and tight shorts. That will definitely raise property values!
Parents setting poor examples to their kids as they turn down Autumn Gate Drive into the car rider line at Oak Ridge Elementary. Stop cutting us off!
Whoever this mysterious “Linda” is that’s running for Summerfield mayor. Why would you omit your last name (Wendelken) on your political signs? Are you embarrassed, trying to hide it or maybe it comes with very negative connotations?
The neighbor who burned over the Labor Day holiday, creating toxic smoke from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., five days straight. And... continues to burn, making this time of year totally unenjoyable!
Lowes Foods in Oak Ridge for having the heat blasting when it is 75 degrees outside. I love having such a clean and organized grocery store in our community, but it is uncomfortable to shop there!
The advertisers in Summerfield Scoop, for supporting such a blatant piece of political propaganda. The ads may be cheap (or free, like the ads for some candidates), but associating yourself with this publication doesn’t reflect well on your business.
the maintenance shop where the fire started around 1:40 a.m. on Monday, assistant fire chief Jenna Daniels said. It spread no further, sparing damage to the station house and the bays where trucks are parked, she said. None of the firefighters on duty overnight were injured.
Several hours after the fire broke out, the truck remained parked in the shop where the exterior bricks above the door had been blackened in the blaze. Guilford County’s fire marshal and an insurance adjustor conducted an investigation of the fire and have since determined it was caused by an electrical malfunctin in the mechanical shop’s equipment room.
A smoke alarm alerted an EMS worker and he awakened others on duty, according to the assistant chief. As a precaution, they moved four vehicles from the bays to the parking area just outside of the station.
Two of those trucks – an engine and a tanker – circled the building and were used to fight the fire, Daniels said. Trucks from several other stations provided assistance.
The new truck is an addition to the fire district’s fleet which already includes a 3,500-gallon tanker. That older truck was going to be assigned to Station 39 at 6214 Lake Brandt Road while the new truck will remain at Station 9, Daniels said.
Since Summerfield doesn’t have municipal water, she said, “we want to have two big tankers in our district.’’
The fire reinforced the importance of smoke detectors, Daniels said. The alarm system is connected in different locations in the firehouse, and rang first at the source of the fire in the maintenance shop and then went off in the truck bays and station house, she said.
Summerfield Town Council and mayor who gave up on democracy and reversed your stance, going for the money on the new tax base instead of standing up for the people. Thanks for ending the town of Summerfield. You all should resign!
Oak Ridge Town Council. Our beautiful, peaceful farm and wildlife will be missed. “You don’t know what you got till it’s gone… They paved Paradise (Heritage Farm) and put up a parking lot” and basketball courts, tennis courts and playing fields!
The following reader-submitted GRIPES express opinions about state and/or national topics, and have been separated from the other Grins and Gripes as a courtesy to those who do not want to read others’ opinions on state and/ or national political and other non-local topics in a local newspaper.
Last issue’s griper who gave their definition of the word “Patriot.” If being one requires me to support that former U.S. president (and criminal/ narcissist), then I most certainly am not one nor do I want to be one.
Drag Queen Story Hour. It is important to know that these men, dressing up as women, have a fetish. A parent is subjecting their child to these men’s fetishes. Parents, you need to protect your children!
The auto workers and UAW. Index finger rubbing against my thumb imitating the world’s smallest violin playing “My Heart Bleeds for You” (sarcasm implied). Ford Automotive current base pay $29.99/hour + bonus. Starve like the rest of us.
Include your name, daytime phone number and name of community. Letters from the same writer will be published no more than every 30 days.
As a constituent of N.C. Senate District 26, I have a few questions… Who is our senator, why do we never hear from him and why won’t he respond to our policy questions? Who does Phil Berger work for? When I have called his office, I’ve asked these questions: Why are we looking to…
1) Defund and close down our local hospitals? Why would you revoke the charters of hospitals which serve your constituents? Who is going to pay for the revenue shortfalls due to the government threats?
2) Defund the public schools by providing subsidies to charter and private religious schools? They have been rife with fraud. Public schools are required to provide different services. Subsidy of $5,000 per student to pay for private school education for families making more than $250,000? That’s poppycock!
3) Set up private equity fund (Innovation NC) with public money? Who runs it, who determines what is worthwhile and where is the accountability? $1.4 billion of public money? Sounds like a real slush fund.
Now for some even bigger issues that are brought on by a supermajority… The citizens are the losers. The voters didn’t choose this, Rep Patricia
Cotham switched parties.
1) Why remove local control? SB 747 seeks to restrict mail-in voting, limit early voting and then worst of all, change the composition of our local election boards. Why eliminate the balance of power? If there’s a dispute the legislature is the unbiased arbitrator? We all know better.
2) The gerrymandering of North Carolina has begun. The composition of registered voters is: Unaffiliated – 36%; Democrat – 34%; Republican – 30%.
The gerrymandered legislature in 2019 couldn’t come up with a “fair” redistricting proposal. Hence, the court appointed a special master to impartially create the districts and we ended with seven congressional districts of each party.
Fast forward to the new Republican version of the Supreme Court (including a member with the name and relationship to a Berger) and they decide to overturn the previous court’s ruling with no challenge.
Don’t be hoodwinked, call Phil Berger’s office at (336) 733-5708. My bet is you get no response.
Doug Macklin RIDGE...continued from p. 8
violation of the council’s process.
I may not agree with the decisions of our council but I always respect the outcome. My leadership style is no nonsense, I am a believer of following the rules and procedures that are in place, making sure our policies are up to date as well as running efficient meetings.
Our current council runs marathon meetings, and many times does not follow proper procedures established by Roberts Rules of Order, which were adopted by a previous council.
Maybe it’s time to update our Future Land Use Plan which was adopted on September 20, 2001. We are working under a plan that is now 22 years old. In addition, the council dissolved the Ordinance Review Committee, so we do not have a place to review the ordinances the town runs under.
...continued from p. 8
Since being elected to the Town Council, I voted to end high-dollar contracts that burdened our town financially. Spending has been redirected to ensure that every dollar spent returns value to our citizens. The town’s General Fund balance today mirrors what it was in 2019, which is remarkable for a town with no property tax.
An example of returning value to citizens was the 2021 decision to purchase 10 acres of land next to the Town Park, thus increasing its size by 40%.
Our council has secured grant monies from higher government agencies totaling $3.78 million and an additional $725,000 in COVID funding from the federal government. To utilize these grants, we voted to extend 3 miles of waterline to an area of town that isn’t serviced with municipal water. This improves fire protection and adds moderate system redundancy.
Additionally, grant money was directed towards improving our town park with new amenities such as playground equipment and outdoor basketball and pickleball courts (under
Many may think the position of a council member is a part-time job. This position requires a great deal of time and effort to do it correctly. We have council members who work full-time jobs and, in some cases, have plans of getting into new careers. When was the last time you visited Town Hall and saw any council member – or even the mayor? Are these representatives available to answer your concerns?
So why would I be the right choice for town council? I have the time, the dedication and experience. I have come from a place where I saw what the lack of long-term planning and effective communications has on a community. I assure you I will fight for each citizen of Stokesdale to make sure our community reaches its potential.
I look forward to your support on Tuesday, November 7th.
construction). A $50,000 matching grant to the Stokesdale Parks and Rec nonprofit organization will enable a lighting retrofit at the ball fields at Stokesdale Community Park, which the nonprofit owns and operates.
Last month, we amended our contract with Forsyth County Utilities to extend the term from 2030 to 2050 and increased our water purchasing capacity by 66%. All of these initiatives are strategic and return value to the citizens.
Looking ahead, I would like the Town to continue with park improvements such as nature trails and adding lights to the soccer fields using grant monies.
I support property owners’ right to develop their land within our UDO and density standards.
I believe small businesses flourish in an environment with minimum government regulations – especially those businesses in our town core.
I want to continue to only spend when value is returned and limit spending within the town’s General Fund.
I humbly ask for your vote to serve you for four more years. More importantly, my fellow council members, Jimmy Landreth and Jim Rigsbee, are also on the ballot for re-election. They are tremendous and very worthy of your vote.
If the council amends the town’s development rules as Couch has proposed, it may later reverse course and repeal the text amendment if new members win in the Nov. 7 election, according to Terrell. Or opponents may file litigation, tying up the project for years, he said.
In response to the issues the current town council are grappling with, Mayor Tim Sessoms said in a statement on Oct. 4, “Our council and I continue to seek a resolution of HB 5 and the de-annexation case of 970+ acres in Summerfield. We ask that our citizens consider the insurmountable undertaking we are facing and assure you we understand and appreciate the magnitude of this decision.
“I’m thankful to every member of our council, all of whom are working for what they feel is best for our town,” Sessoms continued. “We have valued the conversations and input citizens continue
to provide and want to assure them that their voices are being heard.
“The council will continue to do what we believe is best for Summerfield today and moving into the future. We’re deeply appreciative of our citizens’ support as we work through some very difficult challenges,” he added.
Last month in an emergency meeting, the council passed three resolutions to avert the de-annexation of Couch’s property by the state General Assembly. After saying he planned to advance de-annexation legislation, state Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger (R-District 26) paused action on the bill, apparently to extend the opportunity for Summerfield leaders and Couch’s representatives to agree on a plan for developing the Villages of Summerfield Farms on 978.5 acres cutting a wide swath across the town.
From Summerfield’s viewpoint, avoiding de-annexation and “a butchering of town limits’’ is the goal of negotiations, Town Manager Scott Whitaker said in a Sept. 29 letter to the council. While
previously offering no recommendation, town staff now supports a “well-vetted and well-aligned’’ village district concept, reflecting the council’s recent pledge to support Couch’s plan “and frankly, considering the alternative of a State-forced de-annexation,’’ Whitaker said.
Opponents said the proposed text amendment lacks specifics such as requirements for housing density, the number of apartments and acreage dedicated to open space. Previously, Couch has said such particulars would be negotiated with town staff and the council.
“What did Summerfield get out of the compromise w/Couch?’’ Keep Summerfield Rural posted on its Facebook page earlier this week. “What safeguards are in place to protect us?’’
One of the council’s resolutions reversed its previous opposition to the creation of the new district, called OSM-V (open space mixed use – village). If the council votes to create the district, Couch would next seek approval for rezoning his property to the new classification. He’d then need to negotiate a
development agreement with town staff laying out particulars of his project.
Terrell raised the prospect of Couch’s rezoning application being “considered by a new town council in the most hostile environment I’ve witnessed in 38 years as a land use attorney, and with citizens promising to file lawsuits to tie it up in court.’’
“Even if Mr. Couch’s rezoning were allowed, every single one of hundreds of administrative decisions that necessarily would follow would be subject to appeal,’’ the lawyer said.
The special-called joint meeting of Summerfield’s Planning Board and Town Council is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. this Thursday, Oct. 5. The location is Summerfield First Baptist Church, 2300 Scalesville Road. The sign-up for speakers begins at 5 p.m., with public comments limited to 45 minutes during the board’s public hearing and another 45 minutes during the council’s public hearing that will follow.
KNIGHT IMPORT SPECIALTY SERVICE
European Auto Service & Repair. Specializing in factory-scheduled maintenance and repairs. BMW, Audi, Volvo, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Mini, and Porsche. 32 years experience.
4559 US Hwy. 220, Summerfield (across from Food Lion). (336) 337-0669
. Any type of . Oileral automotive repairs. 1080 US Hwy 66 S,
Place online at
DEADLINE: Monday prior to each issue
Call (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 Mon-Fri • 9am-12:30pm
(336) 891-3876 EUROHAUSAUTO.PRO
OAK RIDGE PHYSICAL THERAPY – 2 positions. Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA). Full-time. NC licensed PTA. Outpatient orthopaedic, sports, and balance patients. Also, Physical Therapist Aide. Full-time. Perfect prior to going to PT school. Tasks include laundry, cleaning clinic, duties as directed by PTs, scheduling/calling patients, misc. Background criminal, drug & financial check will be done. Mail resume to: PO Box 875, Oak Ridge, NC 27310.
NORTHWEST BAPTIST DAY CARE is seeking to hire an experienced childcare teacher. This is a full-time position, M-F, 9:30am-6pm. Position requires fun, loving, caring, nurturing individual. Please contact NWBDaycare @ (336) 393-0530
GROUP LEADER needed. P/T position for afterschool program at Revolution Academy in Summerfield. M-F, 3-6pm. Starting at $14/hr. Call (336) 669-5590
LOCAL PRESCHOOL seeking an engaging and enthusiastic Pre-K assistant teacher for our church preschool. Fourday position: M-Th, 8:45am-1:15pm. To apply, please contact Lindsay Villaran at orpcschool@gmail.com.
The TOWN of OAK RIDGE is currently accepting applications for a part-time Parks & Recreation groundskeeper. Up to 25 hrs./ wk.; $15/hr. Very flexible schedule required, including weekends. Applicants must have clean NCDL and be able to pass background check. Candidates should submit an application (which can be found at www.oakridgenc.com under the "Our Town" tab) to tlannon@oakridgenc.com or at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road (M-F, 8:30am-4:30pm).
SENIOR HELPERS. Homecare for seniors and others including companion, personal needs, transitional, chronic disease, VA, respite, post-surgery assistance. Can provide house chores as part of service at no extra charge. Knowing your loved one is happy, safe, and cared for is your priority and ours too! Locally owned and operated. Call (336) 893-0300
Planning a yard sale?
call (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 to place your classified ad
FALL MARKET. Sat., Oct. 7, 8am-12pm. Palestine Methodist Church, 2954 Ellisboro Rd., Stokesdale. Breakfast with ham, sausage and jelly biscuits; biscuits and gravy; coffee, tea and soft drinks. Crafts, baked goods, canned goods, etc. Yard sale items and vendors. Come join us for a morning of fellowship and fun.
FALL BAZAAR by GCUMC United Women in Faith. Saturday, Oct. 21, 9am-2pm. 1205 Fleming Rd. Greensboro. Professional crafters & bake sale.
NORTHWEST GUILFORD CLASS of 1967, 56th reunion picnic. Saturday, Oct. 21, 11am-4pm. Bur-Mil Park, 5834 BurMil Club Rd., Greensboro. Shelter #1. Please contact Rose Beeson ASAP @ nwhsclassof67@gmail.com. Looking forward to seeing our classmates!
FALL ARTS & CRAFTS EXTRAVAGANZA with 30+ vendors. Saturday, November 4, 9am-2pm. Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, 2614 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge.
COMMUNITY YARD SALE. Sat., Oct. 7, 7am-1pm. Reata Drive, Summerfield.
HUGE YARD SALE. Saturday, October 7, 7am-12pm. Carlson Ridge Ct., Summerfield. 3 of 11 homes, tons of stuff! Rain date is October 14.
“MORE THAN A YARD SALE” by Mt. Pisgah Church Women. Saturday, Oct. 7, 7am-1pm. 2600 Pisgah Church Road, Greensboro. Select Schiffman’s items, family clothing, linens, jewelry, household goods, holiday items, tools, sports equipment and so much more!
WILSON FARM YARD SALE. Saturday, Oct. 7, 8am-12pm. Wilson Farm is located off of Dubach Road and Hwy. 150 in Summerfield.
AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING
A-ACTION AIR. Furnace check-up, $79.95. (336) 268-6768 or (336) 382-3750
CHRISTIAN MOM needs work cleaning houses, running errands. Quality cleaning/ budget friendly. Pet sitting also avail. References. Call Laura Bennett, (336) 231-1838
KC CLEANING and PAINTING. Cleaning and interior painting. References. 20 years experience. Leave detailed message. Quick response. (336) 604-3249.
continued on p. 36
ANNASARAH'S CLEANING. Excellent references. Trustworthy. Family-owned business. Free estimates. (336) 543-3941
MAID-2-SHINE. Excellent service, 15 years experience. Free estimates, excellent references. (336) 338-0223
PAOLA CLEANING SERVICE. Residential & commercial. Insured. (336) 669-5210
CRYSTAL CLE AR WINDOW CLEANING
Gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. windowcleaningnc.com. (336) 595-2873
EXPERIENCED INTERIOR DECORATOR & personal furniture shopper will help you with style, color, shopping & furniture placement. E-mail appeninc@gmail.com or call Ann Appenzeller, (336) 314-1411.
ELECTRICAL
BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC.
Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192
Do you have ELECTRICAL NEEDS? It's portable generator season. Call Coble Electric, LLC at (336) 209-1486.
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
LOW-COST GARAGE DOORS. Repair and sales. 35 years exp. (336) 207-1003
CLOCK SERVICE. Free house calls for sick clocks. 8103 Windspray Dr., Summerfield. (336) 643-9931
L & T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE
“We get you mowing!” Comm./res., all models. Oak Ridge, NC. Please call (336) 298-4314 Ltsmeng16@gmail.com
OLD SCHOOL HOME REPAIR
See display ad on page 29.
APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance
A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707
GENERAL HANDYMAN. Repairs, installations, assemblies, etc. Light electrical and plumbing. Yard work and power washing. Insured. No job too small. Give Gordon a call, (336) 253-7700
Why move when you can improve?
construction
well pumps ● plumbing ● foundations sagging floors...and much more!
licensed general contractors
One call fixes all!
(336) 643-1184
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
E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Driveways, fill dirt, demolition, lot clearing, excavating, bobcat work, etc. (336) 451-1282
Grading ● Hauling Land Clearing Concrete ● Gravel Driveways Tree/Brush Removal Drainage ● Demolition
Residential & Commercial
Owner Jackson Prillaman
Call or text for free estimate
336-905-0665
Fully licensed and insured
BRAD'S BOBCAT & HAULING SVCS, LLC. Debris removal, grading, gravel/dirt, driveways, concrete work. (336) 362-3647
ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING
Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt, available. Zane Anthony, (336) 362-4035
www. nwobserver.com
AQUA SYSTEMS IRRIGATION. Quality irrigation systems. NC licensed contractor. We service all systems. Free est. (336) 644-1174
GOSSETT'S LAWNCARE. Complete lawn care/maintenance. Res./comm. Fully insured. In business for 33 yrs. (336) 451-5216
DSL DRAIN SYSTEMS & LANDSCAPING (336) 362-4354
INTEGRITY TREE SERVICE, LLC. Tree removal, risk assessment, tree pruning, dead wood removal. Affordable/competitive pricing. Fully insured. Owner-operated. Call for free estimate, (336) 210-8310
HILL LAWNCARE & OUTDOOR SERVICES
Free estimates. Call (336) 669-5448
WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC
Lawn maint., landscaping. Irrigation/landscape contractor. Hardscaping & landscape lighting. 26 years exp. (336) 399-7764
MEDLIN'S LANDSCAPING. Res./comm. lawn service. Fully insured. Call/text (336) 817-3036
ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE
Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. (336) 643-9157
COLFAX LAWNCARE. Core aeration & seeding. Fertilizing, mowing, trimming. Complete lawn care/maintenance. Res./comm. Fully insured. Serving the Triad for 34 years. (336) 362-5860
336.554.5007
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, portable sawmill and much more. We also do custom roughcut lumber. Call owner/operator Bobby Lipstreu, (336) 543-7867
Installation, repair, replacement, Leaf Guard
Available 7 days/week
Owner: JC Ruiz ● 336.669.5210
DILLON TREE SERVICE. Certified arborists. BBB accredited. Fully insured. Familyowned. Tree removal and trimming. Available for emergency removals 24/7. Free estimates. (336) 996-6156. www.dillontreeservice.com. info@dillontreeservice.com.
CM STUMP GRINDING, LLC. Family owned and operated. Commercial/residential. Free quotes! (336) 317-4600
EXTERIOR GREENSCAPES. Lawn maintenance service. Call for a free estimate (336) 682-1456
SOUTHERN CUTZ LAWN CARE. Offering complete lawn maintenance services, landscaping, bush hogging, privacy fence installation/repair/staining, and stump grinding. Nathan Adkins, (336) 430-6086
STRAIGHT EDGE LAWN CARE. Free estimates. Please call (336) 306-0274
GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE
Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490
R C LAWN CARE. Res./comm. lawn service. Fully insured. Call/text (336) 231-9599
MASONRY
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.
NEW PHASE CONCRETE. Here for all your decorative concrete needs. Specializing in decorative stamp, stained, epoxy and all other concrete poured finishes as well. Also offering refurbishment of existing stamped concrete. Make your existing stamped look like new again! (336) 399-1474 or (336) 595-4654
JUNK & DEBRIS REMOVAL, construction, remodeling, and general cleanup, outbuildings, garages, basements, yard waste, etc. Also can haul mulch. Call (336) 706-8470
PEARMAN QUARRY LCID. Inert debris landfill. Yard waste, concrete, etc. Mulch and fill dirt available. (336) 803-2195 or (336) 558-7673
ON EAGLE'S WINGS residential home design/drafting. Call Patti, (336) 605-0519
HOME SUPPORT SERVICES PROVIDER Oak Ridge and surrounding area. Will run errands and do light housekeeping. M,W,F. Call (336) 707-4946; ask for Katrena.
Certified Mold Inspections
Certified Mold Remediation
Crawl Space Vapor Barriers
Crawl Space Cleaning
Insulation/Foam Board Sealing
Basement Moisture Issues locally based in Stokesdale ● (336) 937-4983 northstarmoisture@gmail.com www.northstarmoisture.com
PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR , 40 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. Average BDRM walls $100. Insured. Call Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186
LAWSON'S PAINTING. Custom decks, pressure washing, boat docks, block fill, wood repair, stain work, textured ceilings, sheetrock repair. Call (336) 253-9089
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.
BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic./ Ins. Cleanliness in your home is our #1 priority. Call Mark, (336) 337-7924
COX POOL SERVICE. Openings, closings, routine maintenance, weekly service. No contracts; free estimates! (336) 327-5122
PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Fully insured. Crystal Clear, www. windowcleaningnc.com or (336) 595-2873
Owner: Carlos Ruiz 336.669.5210
STILL PERFECTION PAINTING. Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com.
Residential & Commercial
David & Judy Long, owners (336) 931-0600
BEKPaintCompany.com
• References Available
• Licensed & Insured
• All Work Guaranteed
We DISASSEMBLE and RECONSTRUCT
old log buildings, cabins and tobacco barns. If you have a log structure and don’t want it, we will remove it for you! If you want to relocate it, we can do that too! We also construct pole barns/buildings. Call (336) 430-9507 anytime.
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.
BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION
Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, dock work, siding, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Senior discount. 41 years exp. (336) 215-6122 or (336) 362-6343
KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION, LLC
N.C. general contractor with 30 years experience. Specializing in new homes, room additions, kitchens & baths, garages, decks, vinyl siding and windows, painting, tile, laminate and vinyl plank, and remodeling of all kinds. Quality for the right price. Free est. Please call (336) 362-7469.
PAINTING, DECKS AND MORE Call Premier Construction for free estimates. (336) 430-9507
HOUSE and ROOF SOFT WASHING Martin's Pressure Washing. (919) 931-0856
AFFORDABLE HOME REPAIRS. One call fixes all! A+ with BBB. For a free estimate call (336) 643-1184 or (336) 987-0350
BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION
Lifetime shingle and metal roofing. We finance. Free estimates. Since 1979. (336) 215-6122 or (336) 362-6343
PREMIER ROOFING. Commercial/residential. Providing service for all of your roofing needs. Locally owned. Please call (336) 430-9507 for free assessments.
DUSTIN CLINARD ROOFING. Shingles, metal, and leak repairs. Certified for 50year non-prorated shingle warranties. Call (336) 268-1908
PORTABLE WELDING SERVICE. Welding & fabrication services. Call (336) 908-6906
WELDING AND TRAILER REPAIR
Call Tim, (336) 402-3869
FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, tillers, generators, power washers, 4-wheelers, mini-bikes, golf carts, go-carts and other gas-powered items. (336) 689-4167
$$$ – WILL PAY CASH for your junk / wrecked vehicle. For quote, call (336) 552-0328
YARN NEEDED to make children's hats for homeless shelter. Call Beth, (336) 644-8155
YOUR NEW BUILDING LOT! Madison area. Beautiful hardwoods. Dan River water. Off State Route 135. Only 8 mins. to Walmart & Hwy 220. 1.5 acres. Just $39,900! Only 3 left. Call Ken, (336) 508-7400
SUMMERFIELD AREA , Rockingham County taxes. Large homesites. Bring your own builder, build when you’re ready. NO HOA!!!! Call (336) 314-3773. Anytime!
LAND WANTED
WE BUY LAND, FARMS and OLD HOUSES
Any size! Any price! Call Ken, (336) 508-7400
WANTED: LAND. Any size or shape. Vacant or with dwellings. Matters not. We pay CASH! Quick closings! Call (336) 430-9507
...continued from p. 19
and the only glimpse the citizens get is a unanimous vote on major issues with little or no public discussions. The citizens have a right to be informed and heard before, during and after all town actions. I intend to facilitate that process.
I fully support development of our town parks to benefit all families in Oak Ridge, but I take exception to the ill-advised decision to spend over $630,000 to renovate and expand the 1,100-square-foot Redmond house. This project has ballooned from an initial $250,000 project and no maximum spending limit has ever been set. The current Town Council will spend close to $1 million on this little house before it is complete. While the structure should be preserved, the current costs would logically require the Town Council to
...continued from p. 19
organized in our town, and I speak with residents at every opportunity. I’m always available to answer questions about current issues and the work of our Town Council.
BOAT N RV STORAGE. $70/$100 monthly. Located on Brigham Rd., Greensboro, near Pleasant Ridge Road. Call (336) 663-3051
HAY for sale, round bales. $40 per bale. (336) 430-9507
Wanted: FARM EQUIPMENT to buy. All kinds. Please call (336) 430-9507
consider the cost to the taxpayers and to reevaluate and modify the project scope.
I also believe our current town council was wrong to increase our taxes by 20% while at the same time voting to increase their own pay for the third year in a row. Serving on the Town Council is supposed to be a public service and not a paid political position. Voting to increase your own pay year after year while increasing taxes on the citizens is simply wrong. It was certainly wrong for one town council member that’s running for re-election to promise to never raise our taxes and then 30 days later vote for the largest tax increase in the town’s history while another council member simply refuses to discuss their vote. This isn’t the integrity nor transparency the taxpayers deserve. I intend to shine a light on these activities.
Oak Ridge is among the most desirable places to live in northwest Guilford County. Because of this and the many new jobs being created in the area, I believe we need to balance our growth with the preservation of our historic and rural identity. I support our town’s local grant programs to preserve our historic structures and open spaces.
I also support our Council’s decision to update town ordinances to ensure that future development will extend our smalltown village feel. Looking ahead, I want to help create an economic development plan that will incorporate citizen input and encourage appropriate development.
To serve our residents and our increasing needs for fire protection, I support developing a new municipal water system. I’m pleased that our new water tower will be funded by state and county grant funds ($4.3 million), and that we received state funds ($4.5 million) to build the first section of our water main.
I’ve supported our many efforts to expand recreational facilities, athletic fields and trails to serve residents, visitors and Oak Ridge Youth Association. It’s exciting to see the construction of our new Heritage Farm Park, including an accessible playground for children of all abilities. Our Veterans Honor Green, being developed with many private and corporate donations and the input of citizens and veterans alike, will honor veterans in all branches of our military. The new park will continue to include around 30 acres of active farming and will preserve Oak Ridge’s scenic beauty.
Our town is fortunate to have an outstanding staff and I will continue to seek their professional guidance. I will also continue to look for guidance from the many dedicated volunteers who serve on our citizen-led committees, and to seek input from individual residents. Oak Ridge is strongest when we work together.
I believe in the principles of small, efficient government and low taxes. My record on our Town Council reflects that philosophy, as Oak Ridge continues to have one of the lowest tax rates in the states. If re-elected, I will continue to be a strong and consistent voice for fiscal responsibility.
I would be grateful for your vote on Tuesday, Nov. 7.
...continued from p.
good listening skills. Oak Ridge has an excellent strategic plan and is fiscally sound. I plan to work to keep it that way.
My wife, Courtenay, and I have two grown daughters and two grandchildren.
During the past 45 years when I returned to visit family, I witnessed Oak Ridge’s transition from tobacco fields with the military school at the crossroads to today’s mostly residential community anchored by the commercial district and town parks. Seven years ago, I retired and with my wife, Courtenay, moved back to our family farm. Since then I have been engaged on several Oak Ridge boards and committees that focus on the safety, security and preservation of our town. Continuing this focus is why I am running for Town Council. Looking forward, I expect that Oak Ridge will continue to grow and adapt to outside influences such as the growth of the aviation industry at the airport and the possibility of a casino to the north of town. Their impact on our town should be part of our discussion and strategic thinking. When elected to Town Council I will bring my business experience and skills to…
• Ensure Oak Ridge remains fiscally strong with low taxes;
• Make certain that effective strategic planning is in place for a prosperous future and that the funding supports our strategic plan;
• Promote historic preservation to protect Oak Ridge’s unique rural character;
• Ensure the safety, security and protection of property as a continuing board member of the Oak Ridge Fire Department and through continued cooperation with law enforcement;
• Support the development of Heritage Farm Park and other needed infrastructure that insures a successful future;
• Encourage continued involvement from our citizens which is the foundation of our Town’s success.
From its rural past until today, Oak Ridge has been a wonderful place to call home. As your newest member of Town Council, I will make sure that remains true in the future.
Stokesdale residents Ray and Robin Williams traveled to Europe last spring to visit their son and his family. While abroad, they enjoyed traveling in England, Germany, France and Iceland. Not wanting to get behind on everything happening back home, they took time to read the Northwest Observer at various places along the wayincluding right outside the Louvre in Paris!
During her annual yachting trip with friends, Phaedra J. Grove of Summerfield took a few minutes between Croatian islands to catch up on the local news in the Northwest Observer. While
(L-R) Mark Ray, Beth Gmyrek, Jackson Messersmith and Braden Messersmith of Stokesdale enjoyed all the history during their Italy trip through Venice, Florence, Cinque Terre, Rome and Pompeii. They enjoyed reading about history in the making back home while standing in front of the Pantheon, the oldest building in the world that is still in use.
John and Marsha Lawrence of Oak Ridge enjoyed reading the Northwest Observer while on the Alaska Railroad train from Anchorage to Seward.