Northwest Observer | October 20-26, 2017 by pscommunications

Oct. 20 - 26, 2017

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Abused dog recovering at vet’s office Good Samaritans helped a young woman take care of a pit bull suffering from stab wounds STOKESDALE – Oak Ridge Parks and Rec Director Terry Lannon was on his way up to Hanging Rock State Park on Sept. 25 when he stopped at a convenience store near Kings Crossing Shopping Center in Stokesdale for a snack.

IN THIS ISSUE News in Brief.......................... 3 Your Questions...................... 4

As he came out of the store, he noticed a woman who was on her cellphone and crying.

Summerfield Town Council.. 8 Community Calendar.........13 Bits & Pieces.........................14

The woman and Robert Gray were trying to reach Guilford County Animal Control because they had found a stray dog with some apparent stab wounds. “This dog had two knife wounds in its back,” Lannon said. “She was flea-ridden. But, she was just wagging her tail the whole time.”

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Meet the candidates..........16 Youth / School News...........23 High School Sports............. 26 Grins & Gripes..................... 29 Crime / Incident Report.... 30 Photo by Joe Gamm/NWO

Staff at Kings Crossing Animal Hospital in Stokesdale have treated and are boarding a dog found with stab wounds at a Stokesdale convenience store.

Taking the Challenge Photos by Patti Stokes/NWO

Northwest Guilford High School football players enjoyed dousing Coach Parker Frazier (above left), Principal Ralph Kitley (above right) and Mrs. Dana Hilliard, human geography teacher, on Oct. 12. The three staff members agreed to take the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge as their reward for raising the highest amount of donations for ALS research among the staff members who participated. The challenge was organized by the players as a way of showing support for Frazier, whose mother was diagnosed with ALS in April.

Letters / Opinions................31 Classifieds........................... 34 Index of Advertisers............39

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NEWS in brief

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Early voting begins Oct. 19 Early voting begins Thursday, Oct. 19, at the Old Courthouse in downtown Greensboro and at Washington Terrace Park in downtown High Point.

Early voting sites will be open at six other locations Oct. 30 through Nov. 3, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All early voting sites will be open Saturday, Nov. 4, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. In northwest Guilford County, early voting sites include the Bur-Mil Club, 5834 Bur-Mil Club Road (off U.S. 220), and Leonard Recreation Center at 6324 Ballinger Road. Registered voters in Guilford County may vote at any early voting site in the county during the early voting period. Same-day registration is available

during the early voting period (but not on Election Day). The polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 7, Election Day, and on that day voters must vote in their assigned precincts. Photo IDs are not required in the upcoming election. Want to view a sample ballot? Visit Guilford County Board of Elections at www.myguilford.com/elections for a sample ballot and more information relating to voting and the upcoming election, or call (336) 641-3836. See pages 16-19 of this issue for Stokesdale, Summerfield and Oak Ridge candidate bios and photos. Look for more candidate coverage in our Oct. 27-Nov. 2 issue.

Public meeting for input on U.S. 158 bypass set for Oct. 26 STOKESDALE – A public meeting on the proposed U.S. 158 bypass will be held Oct. 26 at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. The drop-in event hosted by the N.C. Department of Transportation will be held 4-7 p.m. in the community room, with no more than 100 people at a time. The meeting is one of several for all sections of the U.S. 158 improvements project R-2577 in Forsyth and Guilford counties. The $110 million project will widen 18.8 miles of U.S. 158 to multiple lanes from U.S. 421/I40 Business in Winston-Salem to U.S. 220 in Stokesdale. The project is

divided into sections A, B and C. Section C is 6.5 miles long, beginning at Anthony Road and ending at U.S. 220. It will be a four-lane bypass around Stokesdale with a median since the NCDOT cannot widen U.S. 158 through the Town without it having a significant impact on the historic district. What started as four routes was whittled to two in 2015 – Alternative 2, south of existing U.S. 158 in Stokesdale, and Alternative 3, north of existing U.S. 158 in Stokesdale.

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Town attorney ends contract STOKESDALE – Katy L. Gregg, Stokesdale’s town attorney for the past 18 months, has terminated her contract

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OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

your QUESTIONS

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As I understand it, Dwayne Crawford, who filed on July 7 to run for mayor in Summerfield, has changed his mind about running for mayor. However, I’m told he withdrew his name long after the deadline for being able to withdraw and still not have his name appear on the ballot. From what you published a few weeks ago, Crawford indicates his name will not be on the ballot. Why is that, when he withdrew after the deadline for withdrawing? This is definitely an unusual situation. In fact, Charlie Collicutt, director of Guilford County Board of Elections, says it’s the first time he has experienced it.

phone: (336) 644-7035 fax: (336) 644-7006

Collicutt confirmed that according to state law, for a candidate to withdraw and not have their name appear on the ballot they must withdraw three days before the end of the filing period (for local municipal elections on Nov. 7, the candidate filing period closed at noon on July 21).

office: 1616 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge mail: PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310

However, the law also states that one of the requirements for being a

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qualified candidate is that you must be a registered voter in the jurisdiction in which you are a candidate. Collicutt said the law further states that if a candidate becomes disqualified for any reason, such as the candidate dies – or it is determined the candidate is not a registered voter – the candidate’s name must be removed from the ballot if it has not already been printed. “After the deadline to withdraw, Dwayne was made aware it was too late, so he cancelled his voter registration,” Collicut said. “So, based on the requirements of the state constitution, he is not qualified to be a candidate.” At the time Crawford became disqualified the ballots had not yet been printed, which is why his name was removed. If he chooses, Crawford may re-register to vote during Early Voting, which begins on Oct. 19 and ends Nov. 4 (same-day registration is not available on Election Day).

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OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Are there any plans to replace the wooden bridge on Beeson Road? It’s not even truly two lanes. With all the tractor-trailers that are using this road now, it’s even more dangerous trying to cross. This bridge is at the bottom of a hill in a sharp curve. That bridge is “on track” for replacement in 2022, according to the N.C. Department of Transportation. The bridge on Beeson Road about a mile south of Oak Ridge Road carries traffic over Beaver Creek. While the guardrails on the bridge are wooden, the bridge itself is steel. According to the NCDOT website, the bridge was built in 1951, making it 66 years old. NCDOT is responsible for inspecting and maintaining 18,000 bridges.

Photo by Joe Gamm

The bridge on Beeson Road that crosses Beaver Creek was built in 1951.

The state agency inspects bridges every two years and gives them ratings ranging from 0 to 100 based on federal guidelines. In its most recent assessment, the Beaver Creek bridge was found to be structurally deficient and functionally obsolete and received a rating of 30.55. Typically for bridges to be considered for replacement, their ratings have to be below 50, according to Kevin Fischer, assistant NCDOT structures engineer. Structurally deficient bridges are considered safe, but have parts that are in poor condition. They require “significant maintenance to remain in service,” according to NCDOT’s website. They also may have weight restrictions. The Beaver Creek bridge has a weight limit of 16 tons for single vehicles and 22 tons for tractor-trailers, according to signs leading up to the bridge. That rating was reduced from 38 tons after the bridge’s last inspection, Fischer said. “When those posting numbers change, that goes into the efficiency

rating as well,” Fischer said. “That bridge has certainly served the state very well for many years.” There is a complex formula for determining bridges’ ratings, he said. “It takes a lot of different things into account,” Fisher said, “the conditions of the bridges, the results of the inspections. The bridge is fairly narrow. All those numbers get put in and that (rating) number gets popped out.” The number helps engineers determine which of the 18,000 bridges in the state are most in need of replacement. It also helps them determine if the bridges are obsolete. Functionally obsolete bridges “no longer meet the demands” of traffic using them, according to the NCDOT. They are safe, but need to be improved or replaced for various reasons. On Beeson Road about a half-mile south of the bridge over Beaver Creek, a 1985 steel and concrete bridge carries traffic over Reedy Fork Creek. That bridge, which is also on a sharp curve, is narrow too. It received a rating of 54.68 during its most recent assessment.

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OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

NEWS in brief

...continued from p. 3 in Eden, said in a letter dated Sept. 21 she will be leaving Oct. 30 or when Stokesdale hires a replacement, whichever occurs first. “It has been a privilege to work with you and I appreciate your confidence in my abilities over the past year and a half,” Gregg wrote in the letter addressed to Mayor Randy Braswell, the town council and the town clerk. Gregg’s contract required a 30-day notice from either party to terminate the agreement. The town had allocated $7,000 in the general fund for legal fees in fiscal year 2017-18. During the Oct. 12 regular Thursday monthly council meeting, Gregg said she had taken on additional contracts and that her court time has increased. “You guys need somebody that will be a little bit more available during

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p (L-R) Lisa McCarville, Staci Leclear, Whitney Robbins, Dr. Tim Koop, Dr. Angela Martinek, Karen Leatherwood, Prattheeba Suthaharan and Josef Silverman (not shown, Dr. Charlotte Ablott) of Vision Source Eye Center of the Triad in Oak Ridge Commons shopping center were joined by Merchants of Oak Ridge members, friends, patients and family members for an open house on Sept. 28. The celebration included a ribbon cutting ceremony, Irish dancing and a delicious array of food.

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Oak Ridge Town Council has five members who each serve four-year (rotating) terms. Spencer Sullivan (mayor), George McClellan (mayor pro tem), Jim Kinneman, Mike Stone and Doug Nodine make up the present town council.

MEET THE OAK RIDGE CANDIDATES Mike Stone “I am running for re-election to the Town Council for some pretty simple reasons. I want to continue to reduce taxes; I want to help manage the growth of the town to benefit our current residents; and I want to maintain our small-town, historic, rural character. “I strongly supported the first tax decrease in the Town’s history. We can reduce taxes even further and still provide services that citizens desire, such as sidewalks and improvements to our Town Park. “I’m an avid supporter of our Planning and Zoning Board. They research every case and have the best information on each proposed development. It’s important that we listen to their recommendations in order to manage the slow and smart growth within our town, as well as support the recommendations of all of our volunteer committees. “I’m running for re-election because

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

The terms of Mike Stone and Jim Kinneman will end this November. Stone and Kinneman are both seeking re-election; Ann Schneider and Patti Paslaru are also running for town council. The mayor in Oak Ridge is not elected directly by the citizens, rather by the town council. The mayor is elected every two years at the December meeting that immediately follows the municipal election in November.

I grew up in this area and I’ve seen the changes that have taken place. Folks move to Oak Ridge because they liked the way it is – not with the intent to change our Town. I will continue to be the council member who listens to people’s concerns and act on what’s important to them through a small and efficient government.”

Ann Schneider “One of the best compliments I have received is that I don’t just live in Oak Ridge – I am ‘of Oak Ridge.’ For many years, one of my driving passions has been to preserve what is most special about Oak Ridge: its unique rural, historic character. “I’ve always enjoyed charting the long-term course – whether through parenting, volunteering, or helping nonprofits with strategic planning

and policy. Leadership is about looking ahead, planning, and putting the best ideas into action. It isn’t about just showing up to vote – it’s about the difficult business of seeking input, learning from others, and pursuing the best solutions. I have a strong record of doing just that through my work on our Historic Preservation Commission, Land Use Plan Committee, Merchants of Oak Ridge board, and PTA/PTSO boards where I was twice named Volunteer of the Year. “With a master’s degree and over 30 years’ volunteer and work experience, all in the nonprofit and municipal sectors, I’m well-equipped to provide the informed and inspired leadership that Oak Ridge needs. “My husband Matt and I have been married 30 years. We have three children, Sarah (24), Hannah (20), and Josh (18). We attend Westover Church and enjoy travelling.”

Jim Kinneman “I am 61, a software consultant and an Air Force veteran. My wife Carol and I have been married for 30 years. “I have worked for small and large companies in addition to running my own business. I’m a member of the Oak Ridge Lions Club, a regular blood donor, have served as chairman of the Planning and Zoning board, Board of Adjustment and Ordinance Review Committee and as an alternate on the Historic Preservation Commission. “I love Oak Ridge and want to keep it a great place for all. That doesn’t mean closing the door to others – we can have responsible growth while maintaining our small-town feel. Being an effective member of town council is more than showing up to council

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meetings to vote. During my time on P&Z and as a member of Town Council I have taken the lead on issues such as cell phone towers, sidewalks, Tree City, and preventing big box stores. “I support fiscal responsibility, lower taxes, our land use plan, open space preservation, and walkability. It’s critical that we continue to fully explore water options and how best to ensure everyone has access to clean, safe drinking water and for fire protection.”

Patti Paslaru “I have lived in Oak Ridge since 2002. I am an assistant director of supply chain at Cone Health and have 30 years of logistics and supply chain experience, working with multi-million-dollar budgets and negotiating contracts. “While representing Oak Ridge on the ABC Board, I helped increase the town’s revenue. I serve on the Oak Ridge Finance Committee and recommended paying off town debt and having a balanced budget each year. I also serve on the Oak Ridge Planning and Zoning Board and Oak Ridge Ladies Auxiliary for Oak Ridge Fire Department. “I am running for Town Council because I am passionate about Oak Ridge and have a proven track record of positively serving our town. I can offer diversity of thought and experience. I want to maintain the small-town charm I moved to Oak Ridge for, and have fought hard for low housing density and open space, outside of our business core. I want to have slow, well-managed growth that does not overload our infrastructure. I believe in small government, low taxes, and would like to see us leverage technology more to provide transparency and communication between the town and its constituents, as well as to improve timeliness.”

Summerfield Town Council consists of five council members and a mayor, all of whom are elected directly by the citizens. The mayor is elected to a 2-year term and does not vote except in cases of a tie. Presently, Mark Brown serves as mayor and Dena Barnes (mayor pro tem), Mike Adams, Dianne Laughlin, Reece Walker and John O’Day serve as council members.

MEET THE SUMMERFIELD CANDIDATES Tim Sessoms MAYORAL CANDIDATE “As a former mayor of Summerfield, I am running again because now, more than ever, it is important that we come together as a town.

Brown is not seeking re-election; Gail Dunham and Tim Sessoms are running for the open mayor’s seat this November*. The 4-year terms of Mike Adams and Dianne Laughlin will end this November. Adams and Laughlin are both seeking reelection; Todd Rotruck and Teresa Pegram are also running for town council. *Dwayne Crawford filed to run for mayor on July 7, but has since withdrawn from the race.

“During my previous term as mayor we lowered taxes, kept government small by not adding any full-time staff, and passed two of the lowest budgets in the last 10 years. We purchased historical buildings to preserve our heritage, and purchased land to keep it from ever being developed. “In addition, from a community perspective, I worked hard to help us improve relations with groups that provide crucial services to our community, like

Summerfield Recreation Association. I was instrumental in helping to rejuvenate our Summerfield Merchants Association. “With development continuing to move in our direction, it is important that we have a mayor who will make sure all sides of an issue are heard and that we have transparency to make the best decisions possible for our town. I pledge to make sure that happens as we continue to protect the rural character of Summerfield.”

Gail Dunham MAYORAL CANDIDATE “Summerfield became home almost 15 years ago, and, like many of you, a job transfer brought us to this beautiful Town. We are blessed that our daughter, family, and two grandchildren also moved here, and live close to us. “I am retired from American Airlines and loved to travel. It is important to be a life-long learner, and we learn so much from others; but living in Summerfield there is no place like home. For 27 years I listened and always worked for a positive response to needs and requests. That life experience will serve well for

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

being a Mayor. I am now Board Chair of AMRRC.net, AA Retirees Committee where we advocate for senior and retiree benefits. As Executive Director of National Air Disaster Foundation (NADF) aviation and transportation safety and security became my life’s work. “I am a former School Board Member and former Township Supervisor. As a fiscal conservative I am a Board Member and past-Treasurer of Taxpayers United of America. “As your Mayor I give you my word I will work hard to preserve the quality of life that our rural character provides, fiscal responsibility and for small more effective government to serve the people of Summerfield.”

Todd Rotruck TOWN COUNCIL CANDIDATE “My family bought our first home and farm in Summerfield a little over a year and a half ago. We were seeking the quiet rural life that I experienced as a young child in Virginia. “Prior to our move I had lived in Greensboro (since 1975) and witnessed the rapid expansion and growth. While

...continued on p. 18

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

CANDIDATES

...continued from p. 17 there, I spent much time volunteering on boards and committees connected to the City of Greensboro for improving the way of life for all people. Being involved for over 20 years in the real estate industry as a contractor/developer and real estate agent, I recognize the growth threats to the Summerfield community. “Now being a part of this wonderful community, I believe in giving back to this town and upholding the quality of life that Summerfield offers. I chose to run for Town Council because the past four years have left this community vulnerable to outside development pressures which will drastically and forever change the charm and rural character of Summerfield through Planned Development zoning. Summerfield’s open space, horse-farmed vistas, low density and low property taxes will be eliminated if I do not stand and represent the people who have asked me to run for Town Council.”

Mike Adams TOWN COUNCIL CANDIDATE “I have lived in Summerfield since 2001. I am married to Kim Van Pelt and we have six children and nine grandchildren. We are active members of Westover Church in Greensboro. “I have over 35 years in sales, marketing & business development with large and small businesses, and my strengths are in resource management and creative problem solving. “I was an Eagle Scout. “I am a fiscal conservative. “I farmed in California and firmly believe in stewarding the land God has entrusted to us. “I am running for town council be-

cause Summerfield represents the core values that I cherish about our great country. I want to carry on the good projects started during my first term. Plus, Summerfield is my home and I love this place. “Some of my accomplishments over the last four years include: voted to lower taxes, to make improvements to Summerfield Athletic Park and to maintain our limited services small government profile. I have listened to citizens, and with Council, created the citizen-driven Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Committee in order to align our ordinances with the Summerfield Comprehensive Plan. I also voted to approve the design of the A&Y Greenway Trail and key historic property acquisitions.”

Dianne Laughlin TOWN COUNCIL CANDIDATE “Summerfield has been my home for 29 years. My husband, Willie, and I were involved in the incorporation of Summerfield in 1996. “Willie served on the first Zoning Board and I served on several town committees. “I served as the deputy town clerk, and town clerk for approximately six years and have been honored to serve on the Summerfield Town Council for eight years. “I am in favor of: “Controlled development in accordance with our Town Ordinance; “Community recreation and activities for all ages: “Conservation of our trees, rivers, streams and wildlife; “Preservation of historic properties and structures; “Low and reasonable property taxes;

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

“Manager/council type of government; “Positive meetings where all residents feel welcome when they arrive and informed when they leave. “It will be my honor to serve as your councilperson for another term and I need your vote on Tuesday, Nov. 7.”

Teresa Pegram TOWN COUNCIL CANDIDATE “Summerfield has been home all my life and I have been very involved in its institutions. As a council candidate, a main goal I have is to increase public involvement, information, and communication with our citizens. Over the years, I have become more and more involved with the mechanics of the town. I have served on and/or regularly attended meetings of many committees and rarely miss a council meeting. “I am running for council because I can no longer sit in the audience while decisions are being made that don’t align with what I feel most citizens do and don’t want. “We need to protect our critical water resources, low density, rural character and limited services, transparent government. I want to be a true representative of the citizens. Elected officials are representatives of the people and should make carrying out the goals and wishes for the direction of the town based on what the citizens want for the future of our town. “No highways can divide us. If we lose the character of our town, we’ve lost it forever. “Please use your vote to keep Our Summerfield by casting your vote for me.”

Stokesdale Town Council includes four council members and a mayor, all of whom serve 4-year terms. Just as with the four council members, the mayor in Stokesdale is elected directly by the citizens. Presently serving on the council are: Mayor Randy Braswell, Bill Jones (mayor pro tem), Frank Bruno, Tim Jones and Vicki WhiteLawrence.

MEET THE STOKESDALE CANDIDATES John Flynt MAYORAL CANDIDATE “My name is John Flynt and I am a candidate for Mayor of Stokesdale. “I am a fourth-generation resident of Stokesdale and have been involved in many community activities/ organizations. I have served as Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem, on the 2015 Long Range Planning Committee, the Stokesdale and Northwest Guilford Long Range Planning committees, 20 years as a Selective Service Board member, and presently serve on the Fire Department Board and am active in my church. I have a Business Degree from UNC and an MBA from UNC-G. I have been involved in real estate sales, development and investing for 40 years. “I have concerns with the proposed Regional Water Authority and its impact on our citizens. That Authority could have unlimited taxing rights to pay

Mayor Braswell’s and council member White Lawrence’s terms end this November and neither are seeking re-election. Frank Bruno and John Flynt are running for mayor; Thearon Hooks, Jaycee Spruill and Eric Lowe are running for the open council seat. Lowe did not respond to our phone calls and emails, and is therefore not included in our coverage.

for the construction/operation of that system, require mandatory connections and could be controlled by an appointed Board – not local elected officials. “In addition, our Council is considering an Emergency Water Use Policy that could require standards/equipment for our local fire department that would negatively impact their service. I oppose that proposal. “I will work to maintain our heritage and quality of life. I would be honored to serve as your Mayor.”

Frank Bruno MAYORAL CANDIDATE “I moved my family to Stokesdale in 1991 to enjoy the smalltown atmosphere, the friendly people, and the quality of life Stokesdale has to offer. I have worked to protect these qualities of our

town while living here, and have looked after them for our citizens as a council member for the past six years. I am proud to say that as a member of the town council we have been able to control expenses while not cutting any necessary needs of the town. We have been able to balance our current budgets with a surplus while not dipping into our savings. “I have also been active in the Stokesdale business community throughout my career and my main office of business is located in downtown. My goal as mayor will be the same as it has been as a council member: educate myself on each situation, evaluate it, and ask myself two questions: How will it benefit the citizens of Stokesdale and what will the cost be to the town? My agenda as an elected official is to see that our citizens have a voice in their future and to listen to the will of the people.”

Jaycee Spruill TOWN COUNCIL CANDIDATE “I have been married to my wife Dorothy for 49 years; we have six children (one deceased), 13 grandchildren and 9 greatgrandchildren. I am retired from Yellow Freight System after 35 years of service and am now an avid golfer. I have been a member of Morning Star Lodge Local 691 since 1983, and currently serve as treasurer. “I have led an active life, from earning a black belt through Kim School Of Tae-Kwon-Do, 1983 to 1996, to being certified as an open water diver in 1990 through the Blue Dolphin Dive Shop in Winston-Salem. I have also coached youth athletic teams in the town. “My community involvement since the incorporation of the Town of

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Stokesdale reflects my deep concern for the town. I want to use my historic knowledge to help Stokesdale move into the future. I also want to encourage residents who have concerns and ideas on how to improve our town to attend town council meetings and share their opinions. “I am running for town council to serve as a voice for Stokesdale residents.”

Thearon Hooks, Jr. TOWN COUNCIL CANDIDATE “Hello, I am Thearon Hooks, Jr., and I am running for Town Council in Stokesdale. “I have worked in government service for 25+ years from local to federal in differing capacities. I am running on a platform that includes no town property tax, protecting Stokesdale’s water system and preserving our rural lifestyle along with programmed growth. “I have served Stokesdale as the Chair of Public Safety and the Co-Chair of the Water committees as well as a member of the Long Range Financial Planning Committee. I also served as the Vice Chair of the Guilford County Animal Shelter Advisory Board and the Local Emergency Planning Committee as a voting member for 20 years. I also was on the Board of Directors for the N.C. Local Government Employee Safety Official Association. I have six children, with one still at home. I have worked in Law Enforcement and Emergency Services and practiced medicine for most of my life. I have served in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary for 6 years. “I am running to protect the integrity of Stokesdale and preserve the values that make Stokesdale the town that it is! Thank you for your vote!”

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“And by the way, did I mention that Landon collected $252?”

Photos courtesy of Salina Barksdale Clark

A weekly section in the Northwest Observer focused on our local youth and the adults who positively impact them.

A little change leads to bigger change Article contributed by SALINA BARKSDALE CLARK “When I first learned about Guilford County Schools’ service project (to raise money for hurricane victims), which filtered to each school, I didn’t think much other than to gather a few coins and send them in,” said Salina Barksdale Clark, mother of Landon, a second-grader at Colfax Elementary School. “But for some reason I saved Mrs. Costner’s voicemail and allowed Landon to listen to it,” she continued. “He said ‘that’s awesome.’ What I saw instantly was a look of empowerment and his wheels began to turn. He said ‘Mom, let’s do it.’

Landon Ryan Clark, a second-grader at Colfax Elementary School, wanted to help children affected by the hurricane, so he set a goal of how much money he could raise on their behalf. For six days he carried around a Ziploc bag and collected change… a lot of it!

“I said ‘Do what?’ and he answered, ‘I want to set a goal of $50 – no, let’s make it $100 and I will ask the community to help.’ “And that he did… for six days he carried a plastic Ziploc bag everywhere he went and he asked for donations to help kids who were affected by the hurricanes. Even though he is only a second grader and 8 years old, I saw him plan, strategize and organize. “When children are given the opportunity, they rise, they realize that they have a voice and they activate. “Thank you for such great work, GCS. Continue to allow kids to bloom and see how they can bring change

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

Student profiles brought to you this week by:

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

NORTHERN GUILFORD Samantha Ray, cheerleading By MARC PRUITT It wouldn’t be a stretch to refer to Samantha “Sami” Ray as a “high flyer” around the Northern Guilford campus. This Nighthawk soars through the air without any wings, however. Ray, a junior, is one of the designated flyers on the varsity cheerleading team. She said she enjoys the rush of being launched many feet into the air and doing splits while touching her toes in mere seconds before gravity takes over and she falls back down towards earth into the waiting arms of her teammates. The adrenaline rush wasn’t always enjoyable for Ray, however. “I’ll admit it – I was terrified the first time I did it,” she said. “I was really

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

shaky and didn’t want to stand all the way up, so I kind of squatted in everyone’s arms before they sent me up. I’ve learned over time, though, that it’s not a matter of if you will fall, but when you will fall. It’s a part of it. You have to trust your bases and know that they will catch you.” Ray began participating in cheerleading at age 5, when she was with the Summerfield Recreation Association. She eventually landed with Greensboro All-Star Cheerleading, which specializes in competitive cheerleading, and she now attends competitions year-round.

performances.” Besides cheerleading, Ray also is involved with Fellowship of Christian Athletes, DECA, and her church youth group at Summerfield First Baptist Church. She has gone on several mission trips as part of “World Changers,” where she helps with building projects in underprivileged communities. Ray eventually wants to become a speech pathologist.

On a side note, we asked

Samantha Ray these three questions: Q: What’s the best book you’ve read? A: “‘The Spectacular Now’ by Tim Tharp” Q: What three people, living or dead, would you invite to dinner? A: “Miles Teller (actor), Mel Gibson and Susan B. Anthony” Q: If you could have one superpower, what would it be? A: “Stop time”

Who will be the voice for this child?

When tryouts were held at Northern the summer before her freshman year, Ray was ready to go all-in. She spent her freshman and sophomore years on the junior varsity team and has taken her high-flying approach to the varsity team this season. “I love to perform,” Ray said. “I love the atmosphere on Friday nights and how our student section gets into the game, and when we get to dance along with what the band is playing. I love supporting the team with our

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NORTHWEST GUILFORD Rylee Wilson, volleyball By MARC PRUITT There are few things Rylee Wilson enjoys more than seeing a play developing in a volleyball match that she anticipates will give her the opportunity to smash a ball into the opposing team’s court. “That’s always exhilarating,” said Wilson, a 5-foot-9 senior and outside hitter. “It’s the best part of playing the position. And if you get a stuff block, that’s the second-best feeling. I don’t have the best vertical jump like some of my friends do, but I can get up there.” Wilson began playing volleyball for a club team in her home state of Maryland when she was in fifth grade, picking up her love for the sport by watching her older sister, Raquel, play.

she started eighth grade at Northwest Guilford Middle School. Picking up with volleyball right where she left off, she found a club team to join and played for her middle school team. She has been a part of the Northwest program all four years of high school, where she split time between JV and varsity as a freshman before making varsity as a sophomore. Wilson continues to develop her skills as a member of Twin City Volleyball Academy and is interested in attending N.C. Central to play volleyball and major in nursing. “Eventually, I want to work my way up to be an international traveling nurse and match my two passions, which are traveling and helping people,” Wilson said. “I’ve traveled to Hawaii, Cancun, Saint Thomas, Alaska and a lot of the Caribbean Islands with my family.” Besides volleyball, Wilson is involved with Cooking Club, Key Club, HOSA, Girls for Change and National Honor Society.

October 28 5:30-7:30 p.m.

IN THE CHURCH PARKING LOT

On a side note, we asked Rylee Wilson these three questions:

“My older sister also came up with my name, or so my parents tell me,” Wilson said. “She liked the name and they just wanted to spell it a little bit different. I would always be in the gym when my sister was playing and practicing and I fell in love with volleyball by watching her.”

Q: Who’s the best teacher you’ve had?

Wilson and her family moved to the northwest area the summer before

A: “Beyoncé, Chance the Rapper and Maya Angelou”

A: “Ms. Polly Davis (Health Science I and II teacher)” Q: What’s your favorite movie? A: “The Princess and the Frog” Q: What three people, living or dead, would you invite to dinner?

Get. Be. Stay. Connected facebook.com/NorthwestObserver

* Candy * Games * Food * Fun * A safe trick-or-treat alternative!

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OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

Northern Guilford faces key test against Rockingham County By MARC PRUITT Northern Guilford (5-3, 3-1 Mid-State 3-A) will hit the road for the second straight week when it heads to Wentworth this Friday to take on Rockingham County (5-3, 2-2) in a key conference game. With remaining games at home against Morehead and the regular season finale at Western Alamance,

Northern is still in contention to win the conference championship. “We’re not looking that far ahead, but I do like the position we are currently in,” head coach Erik Westberg said. “But we’ve got a tough opponent in Rockingham that we’ve got to deal with first, and they are a much-improved

team from last year.” It will be Senior Night for the Cougars, who have yet to lose at home this season (4-0), and who are also in contention for a top seed for the 3-A state playoffs from the conference. “Who would have thought at the beginning of the season that this would be one of the games that you circle on the schedule as being huge for both teams?” Westberg said. The Nighthawks’ defense has been playing lights out during conference play despite allowing 48 points to Eastern Alamance two weeks ago. In its three other conference games, Northern has allowed a total of 33 points. “Our defense has really stepped up,” Westberg said. “C.J. Foxx has been playing phenomenal, and Christian Bass and Bryce Johnson have really been playing strong as well. They all had great performances last week. And we’ll need another big game from our defense

this week, because Rockingham has a dangerous quarterback who can sling it around a little bit and who can run, as well as a good running back. We’re going to need to control the line of scrimmage and continue to get the ball in the hands of our playmakers to be successful.” Getting the ball in the hands of Ford Moser and J.J. Julian was the recipe for success last week in a 31-10 win against Person. Jakob Lenard threw for 179 yards and three touchdowns. Moser had seven receptions for 109 yards and two touchdowns, while Julian added six receptions for 55 yards and a touchdown and returned the opening kickoff 87 yards for a score. Running back Jaquan Jones was effective in the running game with 21 carries for 88 yards, and Foxx led the defense with 18 tackles. Bass, Johnson, and Tyler Anderson recorded 15 tackles apiece.

Northwest Guilford hopes to get back on track at Ragsdale By MARC PRUITT It’s been a rough stretch for Northwest Guilford since beating crosstown rival Northern Guilford on Sept. 9. That was the last time the Vikings – who are mired in a five-game losing streak – tasted victory. But with two games left in the regular season, head coach Kevin Wal-

lace believes his team has plenty of fight left in it for a run at the NCHSAA 4-A state playoffs. “We’ve still got a chance and our guys know that,” Wallace said. “It won’t be easy, starting with

...more SPORTS on p. 28

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Homecoming, Oct. 13 Northwest Guilford High School

Northwest Guilford High School’s annual

GAME DATE:

October 25 7 pm

Rain date November 2 @ 7pm

All photos by Patti Stokes/NWO

Sidney Branham was crowned this year’s homecoming queen at halftime; Branham was escorted by Chris Jenkins.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

SPORTS

...continued from p. 26 the Ragsdale game, but we’re still alive and that’s all that matters.” Northwest (3-6, 0-2 Metro 4-A) will travel to Jamestown Oct. 20 to take on Ragsdale (5-3, 1-0), which will be wellrested after coming off its bye week. The Tigers, in their first season under head coach Johnny Boykin, are led by star running back Malachi Maness, who averages 147.2 rushing yards per game and has rushed for 883 yards and 13 touchdowns this season. In Ragsdale’s win against Grimsley two weeks ago, Maness blistered the Whirlies for 265 yards and four touchdowns. “We’re going to have to do a better job of stopping the run, which we didn’t do last week (in a 57-14 loss against Page),” Wallace said. “We know he’s going to be a handful.”

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Wallace also has lots of holes to fill as key injuries continue to mount.

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p Northwest Guilford’s varsity volleyball team at the school’s Dig Pink event Tuesday, Oct. 3. The varsity and JV squads raised more than $380 for the Side-Out Foundation, which directly funds breast cancer research and support. The foundation partners with the nation’s volleyball community to empower student athletes to make a game-changing difference in the lives of others. “We’re down nine starters now, with several of those being on the offensive line,” Wallace said. “We’ll need to figure out how to plug some of those holes for our last two games. We’ve been pretty banged up all season.” Last week’s loss against Page wasn’t pretty, but the Vikings kept it close and

were trailing 14-7 in the second quarter until a blocked punt led to a safety and a touchdown on Page’s ensuing possession. Page was able to pile on from there. “That’s one of the best defenses you’ll see in high school football,” Wallace said. “They are big and fast and fly around all over the field. They did a

great job of disrupting our offense.” One bright spot for the Vikings was the continued emergence of receiver Cameron Cloud, who had eight receptions for 166 yards and two touchdowns. Quarterback Jacob Leonard completed 20 of 37 passes for 241 yards and two touchdowns.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

GRINS and GRIPES Delighted or dismayed by something in your community? Share your thoughts in

40 words or less online: nwobserver.com e-mail: grinsandgripes @nwobserver.com

Grins & Gripes are published based on available space and editor’s discretion.

GRINS to...

The NWO for providing an anonymous Grins and Gripes section that affords the opportunity to grin, gripe, or even gripe about a gripe, especially in a society where expressing your opinion gets you verbally and sometimes physically attacked and/or threatened. Mr. (David) Layton, Summerfield Elementary PE teacher, for his tireless efforts to organize and lead the annual Summerfield campout. His campout is always fun and educational and he is a true gem to the SES community!

The lady in Food Lion in Stokesdale who bought my little girl the blue water bottle. That’s her favorite color and she loves it. It’s the little things that make her happy. So sweet of you!

DeVaney Dentistry in Oak Ridge and Borden Dentistry in Summerfield for furnishing toothpaste and toothbrushes for our church circle nursing home visit.

Mrs. Bisdee, Stokesdale Elementary’s PE teacher, for organizing and running an after-school Fit Club for our children. We appreciate your commitment to teaching and inspiring your students to live a healthy lifestyle!

GEICO Insurance, which donates $3,700 laser and radar guns to police departments all over the country (most recently Baltimore, Maryland). Speeding ticket for you equals more money for them. Corrupt, corrupt, corrupt!

Golden Dragon Chinese restaurant on Battleground Avenue. I left my purse, full of cash; it took me two days to figure out where I’d left it and everything was still there. Oh – and my food was delicious! Thank you! Lowes Foods, Sherwin Williams, The Summit Church and the countless volunteers and parents for making this year’s fall Oak Ridge Elementary book fair a success. We couldn’t have done it without you. All the wonderful residents who dropped off Box Tops for Education at Summerfield Elementary for our fall collection. We always keep a box

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Patti Paslaru, for inserting politics into the Oak Ridge Firemen’s BBQ on Oct. 7. Not the time to be handing out your political “goodies” along with my BBQ as I drove through the line. Gail Dunham, Teresa Pegram, Todd Rotruck and Keep Summerfield Rural for placing not one, but four campaign signs on our property without asking. And we don’t even live in Summerfield! This shows what you truly think of property owners’ rights!

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

CRIME / INCIDENT report

District 1 Sheriff’s Office

has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest Guilford County ... ASSAULT

cloth case was stolen from the vehicle.

Oct. 11 | A resident of Union Grove Road in Oak Ridge/Kernersville reported that his wife struck him with her fists and used a razor blade to cut him in the face, neck, upper back, chest and arms during an argument. Both parties were extremely intoxicated at the time of the report and both refused to be transported to the hospital. After an investigation, the wife was placed under arrest for Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Simple Assault and transported to Wesley Long Hospital for treatment of her self-inflicted injuries and for an evaluation.

DRUGS

Oct. 14 | A resident of Still Run Drive in northern Greensboro reported being kicked in the groin by a known person. The victim was transported to Wesley Long Hospital for treatment.

Oct. 16 | The owner of a business doing work at a new neighborhood construction site in the 7500 block of Happy Hill Road in Oak Ridge/Kernersville reported that sometime between 7 p.m. on Oct. 12 and 12:28 p.m. on Oct. 16 unknown suspects stole three concrete drain pipes, three logging chains and a key to a 1981 road tractor. The estimated value of the stolen property is around $600.

BREAKING & ENTERING Oct. 11 | An employee of TireMax on N.C. 68 in Stokesdale reported that sometime between 6:15 p.m. on Oct. 10 and 7 a.m. on Oct. 11, unknown suspects used a prying tool to break into a customer’s vehicle that was parked in the business’ parking lot. Tools, stereo equipment and cash were among the items stolen. An attempt was also made to break into a second vehicle. Oct. 13 | A resident of U.S. 158 in Stokesdale reported that sometime between 7:30 a.m. on Oct. 11 and 4:07 p.m. on Oct. 13, unknown suspects entered his Honda Civic while it was parked in his driveway. The vehicle was locked, but the passenger-side window was rolled down about one inch at the time of the offense. A Century Arms AK-47, valued at about $600, in a black

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Oct. 9 | A known suspect at a residence on Hudson James Road in Summerfield was found to be in possession of suspected controlled substances. Charges will be forthcoming after the seized substances are tested and verified.

THEFT Oct. 12 | An employee of the Pick N Go located at 7701 N.C. 68 North in Stokesdale reported that between 6:05 and 6:15 p.m. on Oct. 12 an unknown suspect stole a beer valued at $3.

District 1 Sheriff’s Office 7506 Summerfield Road Main number: (336) 641-2300 Report non-emergency crime-related incidents by calling:

(336) 373-2222 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday

in case of emergency, dial

911

www.guilfordcountysheriff.com

Capt. Robert Elliott

LETTERS/OPINIONS Submit your editorials (maximum 350 words) online: nwobserver.com

e-mail : editor@nwobserver.com

mail: Opinions, PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310 Include your name, a daytime phone number where you can be reached and name of community in which you live. Letters from the same writer will be published no more than every 30 days.

The people of northwest Guilford County stood together for the love and caring of Jason Crawford and his family. Sometimes it takes a community to show a family that they are not alone when hard times strike, and that the community is there to help in any way they can. Every day Jason continues to climb

hills that we see as uneventful. Your donations to Jason’s Journey will help in his transition from hospital to home in the very near future. Although we exceeded our goals, I have a very special thank you to Elizabeth Joyner, our raffle winner, for donating her winnings to Jason’s Journey.

During Mike’s tenure Summerfield has lowered taxes, enhanced government services and increased community activities. Music and Movies in the Park and Touch a Truck have been estab-

Again, it takes a community to help in hard times. The northwest Guilford community has extraordinary residents who were up to the challenge. Randall Irwin, STOKESDALE

New policy needed for filling public records requests The Northwest Observer published two articles regarding the Town of Summerfield receiving excessive requests for public information and the time and cost associated with fulfilling these continuing public records requests from one particular citizen. As of Sept. 12, the town had spent over $12,000 on these requests on both staff ($4,284), attorney ($7,963), and third party IT time of $150 this year alone. Large requests from this one individual for political purposes are costing the taxpayers a lot of money for a small town with a limited services government. Guilford County Schools is considering a new public records policy that in-

I first met Mike Adams in 2013 when he was launching his campaign for Summerfield Town Council. He told me that he and his family moved here from Pennsylvania in the year 2000 due to a job transfer. He said he settled in Summerfield because it represented his set of values, and because of the friendliness of its citizens and the positive atmosphere in which to raise a family. Since Mike’s election, I have witnessed his commitment to preserving the values he first admired about Summerfield. I have seen his desire to protect Summerfield’s rich history. He also has a deep concern for the Town’s future well-being.

Community shows love, support Although the weather did not fully cooperate, the Jason’s Journey fundraiser on Oct. 7 was very successful. I want to thank all involved who assisted by selling raffle tickets, donating time to help and those who braved the rain to be there.

Adams will protect values, history

cludes charging a $25 fee per hour for large requests that require more than four hours of staff time to gather and provide. The school district considers that fee an actual cost of providing the document in terms of personnel time. I think Summerfield should consider and adopt a similar policy so those requesting public records will have an incentive to focus on the information they want rather than broad-based requests that create excessive work for town staff. These requests take away staff time that could be used to serve the other citizens of the town rather than one or a select few individuals. Steve Sumner, SUMMERFIELD

lished, which have increased the quality of life in the community. Mike also has an ear for the citizens and wants to know what they expect from their town government. He understands that growth is inevitable in Summerfield, but he wants the policies of the town’s Comprehensive Plan to guide this growth and be led by its citizens. For this very reason he pushed for and is very involved with the citizen-driven Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Review Committee. I am proud to call Mike Adams a friend. If you live in Summerfield, I hope you will cast a vote for him on Nov. 7. He is committed to preserving the values that Summerfield was built upon. I know that he will serve the citizens as well in his second term as he has in his first term. Rep. Jon Hardister, N.C. House Majority Whip

Council must represent majority We face an important election in Summerfield. When voting, remember the job of our Council and mayor: to listen to us and represent the majority. How then does Summerfield have a Council and mayor who often ignore the will of the people in favor of their own agendas? The best example is Planned Development. By most counts, over 1,500 residents urged leaders to vote against PD/high-density housing. While many against PD actually favor affordable housing options, they expressed concerns about condos/apartments, crowded schools and roads, more retail and constraints on water and resources. High-density housing could bring thousands of new residents to Summerfield. Despite massive objection and valid points, town leaders refused to vote “no” to PD or present options for affordable housing that avoided unwanted problems. Instead, they tabled the vote, hoping the outspoken majority would disap-

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

pear. They then appointed a UDO Review Committee to address development. Unfortunately, most UDO members chosen by Town Council are openly in favor of PD or developers. If weighted with pro-development members, the UDO committee may simply be a method for the Council to backdoor PD and their agenda. It is ironic that over 1,500 “votes” against this PD issue were not enough to convince our Council. Why? Because these same leaders received far fewer votes to put them into office than the number of votes “cast” against PD. Past election results were: Mayor Brown (664 votes); Reece Walker (587); John O’Day (658); Dena Barnes (743); Mike Adams (780); Dianne Laughlin (666). We, the people of Summerfield, accepted these outcomes, even though not one winner received close to 1,500 votes. So, why did these same Council members not accept 1,500 “votes” against

...continued on p. 32

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

LETTERS/OPINIONS

...continued from p. 31

PD/high density housing? The current elected officials are not doing their job of representing the majority. We voted them into office. We can replace them. All 1,500+ of you against PD actually have the power to keep our

Town rural ... by voting. If our current Council won’t listen, we must speak more loudly ... with our votes for new representatives: Gail Dunham, Teresa Pegram and Todd Rotruck. Jolinda Babcock, SUMMERFIELD

Educate yourselves, then vote! My family moved to Summerfield from Savannah, Georgia, a little over a year ago. What attracted us to the area were the excellent schools, the trail near our house, and the potential for a thriving, vibrant community as the area grows. I have noticed how the town has been run as a large family, with culture, festivals and history. I appreciate the efforts of the current leadership to facilitate and maintain such high standards. I hope the leaders of our community continue to represent the larger population of this town, and recognize the potential for positive growth while still maintaining a safe, vibrant area for raising children. Growth and transition are inevitable, as are the aging process and advances in technology. Thus, Summer-

field leaders must embrace, direct and control the development for the benefit of our entire community, and not a few very vocal individuals who inundate our mailboxes, internet and yards with information to further only their own agenda. Although most Summerfield residents would not approve of apartments next to their houses, most of us would appreciate closer amenities such as shopping and dining choices. Businesses also pay a plethora of taxes, which would support our town’s beloved and well-used trail. As I have followed the town’s local politics for the last year, I have learned very quickly that voting for Gail Dunham and her cohorts would be a huge disservice to Summerfield. It is vital for our citizens to educate themselves and vote. Christina Teague, SUMMERFIELD

Schneider qualified for council I’m writing to endorse Ann Schneider for election to Oak Ridge Town Council. After 10 years of service on various boards and committees of the Town of Oak Ridge, I’m pleased to say that I know and have served with each of the candidates for Town Council. All are dedicated public servants. However, I find Ann Schneider to be exceptionally qualified to be a member of Town Council. Ann chairs the Historic Preservation Committee (HPC) on which I served for three years. We also worked together more recently on the Oak Ridge Land Use Planning Advisory Committee. Ann brings a proven record of vision and leadership. She is also a gifted planner and organizer and has demonstrated

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

these talents on numerous occasions. Ann brought new energy and vision to HPC by increasing placement of historic property markers, adding informative articles in the NWO, creating the matching grant program for property improvements, and by spearheading the highly successful Explore Historic Oak Ridge Tours. Ann is committed to managing town growth to preserve the rural and historic character of Oak Ridge, and to economical and efficient fiscal operations. From my observations, Ann will be an energetic, capable and productive addition to the Oak Ridge Town Council. Ron Simpson, OAK RIDGE

Bruno is vital to our community In 2011 Mayor Randy Braswell, Frank Bruno and I ran for Stokesdale Town Council as a team. There is not room for me to list all the many improvements we have managed to make, but in looking through all the minutes from meetings of former councils, I would say it has been the most successful since Stokesdale incorporated in 1989.

previously served as mayor reflects many instances of council members having to excuse themselves from voting on zoning matters because they either owned the property, surveyed the property or sold the property. I feel this is a very good reason to exclude land developers, real estate agents and land surveyors from these positions.

We have almost completely turned around the water system, which in my opinion had never been properly set up by any of the former councils. A review of the minutes for the period during which mayoral candidate John Flynt

I wholeheartedly support Frank Bruno for mayor of Stokesdale. He is a vital part of our ongoing efforts to provide the best service to the citizens in the most economical manner. William Jones, Stokesdale mayor pro tem

Leaders should listen to all I find it interesting how negative Summerfield News is. The people who support the Facebook page are, for the most part, just “against.” People who don’t agree with them are blocked from the page. Why is it OK for Todd Rotruck to be a developer and Realtor but, heaven forbid, the UDO Review Committee have representatives from all segments of the community? Summerfield News and (editor/owner) Don Wendelken’s picks for Summerfield Town Council think only their opinions should be considered. A good council member should consider the opinions of all citizens. How can people throng to buzz words such as “Keep Summerfield Rural” while maligning David Couch, owner of Summerfield Farms, a large working farm? I urge people to educate themselves

before voting on Nov. 7. We cannot stop people from developing their property – that is against the law – but the Town can direct development. We need to have a council open to change so our Town does not become a failure. Currently our Town is largely made up of 35- to 55-year-olds, more than 70 percent with houses averaging in the $500,000 price range. Where do our children live when they leave home and where do you live when you want to downsize? Well, right now it probably wouldn’t be in Summerfield. I want my council to consider every person’s ideas and to have a long-range plan for Summerfield. Just remember, “no plan is a plan,” you just don’t have any control over it. Jane Doggett, SUMMERFIELD

Vote for Sessoms, Laughlin, Adams As the Town of Summerfield’s mayor for 10 of the last 12 years I want to thank the Summerfield citizens for allowing me to serve them. I feel a lot has been accomplished in these years as we plan for the next 50 years and generations to come. I will retire now – again – and continue with life. Tim Sessoms served in my place as mayor in 2014 and 2015 and did a great

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

job. He had to leave after one term due to a serious family medical situation, but is now ready to serve the Town again. I heartily endorse him in the upcoming November election. Tim has a lot of experience in many areas of business and town administration. I also endorse Dianne Laughlin and Mike Adams for re-election to their seats

on the town council. Dianne served as our town clerk for many years before her retirement, and is finishing her second term on the town council. She is very knowledgeable of town affairs and uses her position to help the town and its citizens.

be a quick learner and a person who delves deeply into issues coming before the town council to be able to make an educated decision. Mike is a retired agronomist who spends a great deal of time volunteering in his church and with the town.

Mike Adams is finishing his first fouryear term on the council and has proven to

Mark E. Brown, mayor, SUMMERFIELD

Vote for, not against parks, trails, low taxes Last week I read with interest a citizen’s editorial in which she wrote how much she likes living on a small farm, appreciates low taxes, the quiet way of living and award-winning schools. Those are things the current Summerfield Town Council has worked hard for, things made possible by planned growth and following the town’s Comprehensive Plan. We have a wonderful community park with Music in the Park events and Movies in the Park, now with expanded parking and preservation of open space. We also have had plays in the community park and haunted trails. And we have an annual Touch-A-Truck event, which everyone loves!

Trails, community and athletic parks, preservation of historical buildings and open space, low tax rates and water preservation have been goals of the council. Yet for some reason, the writer supports people who are disregarding the positive things we have done in the past and who have spoken out against these things. If you live in Summerfield I hope you will look toward the future and realize the many things council and town leaders have done to try to bring the community together. Dena Barnes, mayor pro tem, SUMMERFIELD

I support Jaycee Spruill As Stokesdale grows, I want it to grow well. I want the town to flourish, and I want it to be led by a town council that is equipped and willing to face the decisions that accompany this growth. I grew up in this area, attending Laughlin Primary, Summerfield Elementary and Northwest Middle and High schools. I moved away for college; years later I returned with my family because this is home, and it has so many qualities we appreciate. What do I see in Jaycee Spruill in a Stokesdale Town Council member? Someone who respects and values the town’s history and unique character while also embracing its potential to grow. Someone who listens carefully, considers situations from many angles, and is willing to bear a civic responsibil-

ity for the good of the town’s residents, regardless of affiliation, income or persuasion. A person who assumes the dignity of the office and offers respect to others simply because that’s how things should be done. In talking with Jaycee on several occasions, it is clear he recognizes the economic potential of our downtown area. He sees the value of public spaces in creating a livable and desirable community. He sees our local schools and businesses as fundamental to our community’s well-being. He understands the critical importance of a functional, reliable, and viable municipal water system. Jaycee is a longtime Stokesdale resident, committed to his family and community, and he has a history of serving that community, through youth sports,

local government, and Masonic membership. I have complete confidence that he would serve Town Council as a responsible steward of the town’s resources for the good of the greatest number of us, with a long view of the town’s future. I am also confident that he would reflect

my priorities as a parent. In short, I support Jaycee Spruill because I want to live in a town that truly flourishes as it grows, neither growing unrestrained nor resisting the change that is already here. Kathryn Bunthoff, STOKESDALE

Vote for Ann Schneider I was a member of the Oak Ridge Incorporation Committee in 1998 and the first mayor pro tem of Oak Ridge, and I know some of the qualities needed in those who opt for public service. A few of the most important are honesty, organization, vision, and a strong desire to serve the community. No one embodies those qualities more than Ann Schneider. Ann’s leadership of the Oak Ridge Historic Preservation Commission for the past seven years has been outstanding. The recent Explore Historic Oak Ridge event, with its myriad of seamlessly interacting parts and groups, is a prime example of her phenomenal organizational skills. It highlights her ongoing effort to preserve our town’s history and unique character, while looking toward the

future, with the inevitable growth and development that is to come. As a former or current member of many organizations and committees such as the Oak Ridge Land Use Plan Committee, the Merchants of Oak Ridge board of directors, the Oak Ridge Lions Club and Preservation Oak Ridge, Ann has a broad range of experience within the community that will benefit her as a member of the Town Council. Myra and I have worked closely with Ann and the HPC over the past two years and have never failed to be impressed by her boundless energy, her unflagging interest in community affairs, and her constant good humor. Oak Ridge needs Ann Schneider as a member of its Town Council. Gary B. Blackburn, OAK RIDGE

Don’t be fooled by wolves in sheep’s clothing It says in the Bible, “Beware of false prophets.” It was good advice then, and it’s good advice now. We have three candidates running for Summerfield office who have based their campaign on being against something, not for something. The “No PD” signs and group are against something that never was and without community buy-in, never would have been. It was a plan for the future which each citizen would have had a say in. Many in this group have been against much of the positive things happening in Summerfield and have usually been disrespectful in their opposition. They have been critical of the walking trails so many enjoy, and they have been critical of the

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

parks our citizens use and enjoy. They were critical of the athletic fields our kids play on. They don’t like Founders’ Day, which helps bring our community together and celebrates our history. They were against the water feasibility study which helps prepare us for future needs. They have spoken out against our public safety partners, both the Sheriff’s Office and the fire department. They were against the purchase of land for open space, yet one of the candidates is using a photo in her campaign material as a positive when she spoke against its purchase.

...continued on p. 34

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

GRINS & GRIPES

...continued from p. 29

Pedestrians who don’t lift their hand to thank you for stopping to let them pass ahead of you. Yes, pedestrians have the right of way, but could you be a little more polite?

Oak Ridge wants to lead the community?

NFL players and others who disrespect the American flag and national anthem. It brings to mind a saying, “If you don’t stand for something, you will fall for anything.”

Summerfield Town Council for approving a budget with $684,230 worth of salaries, benefits, and related contractor costs for FY2017-2018 when the actual figures spent prior to the current town manager were only $366,594 for FY2011-2012 and $388,763 for FY2010-2011.

Those who mow their lawns next to neighborhood roads and blow their grass clippings and debris into the roads and onto our cars. Please turn your lawn mower in a different direction so this won’t happen.

The ambulance drivers who come around a curve across the yellow center line – I was nearly the victim of a head-on collision. You are responsible for following safe driving rules just like the rest of us.

(Oak Ridge Town Council candidate) Patti Paslaru for complaining to the town council about a disabled Vietnam Vet working on mowers in his backyard. Is this a candidate

Summerfield candidates Dunham, Pegram and Rotruck for spreading lies and half-truths about the Town of Summerfield staff. Don’t fall for them. Wake up, Summerfield voters!

Serving the northwest community

LETTERS/OPINIONS

...continued from p. 33

Lucky for us, we have three candidates who despite the verbal, written and emotional abuse from this group are still willing to serve. Mike Adams, Diane Laughlin and Tim Sessoms have helped make Summerfield the great

community it is, and they deserve your vote and your support. Please don’t be fooled by wolves in sheep’s clothing, vote Adams, Laughlin and Sessoms. Sheriff BJ Barnes, SUMMERFIELD

Paslaru will protect rural charm The citizens of Oak Ridge who truly value small town charm should vote for Patti Paslaru for Oak Ridge Town Council on Nov. 7. Patti has worked tirelessly and unselfishly for the good of Oak Ridge by serving on the Oak Ridge Planning and Zoning Board, Oak Ridge Finance Committee, and Ladies Auxiliary for the Oak Ridge Fire Department. While serving on the P&Z Board, Patti has been consistent in voting to ensure the development within Oak Ridge was at a controlled and manageable pace. She was in opposition, for safety reasons, to the requests of developers to change Oak Ridge ordinances governing the maximum length of cul-de-sacs and the minimum distance between houses. We need someone with her experience and balanced judgement to ensure that our town is

not overdeveloped and the needs of our residents are put first. While serving on the Oak Ridge Finance Committee, Patti was instrumental in recommending to pay off the debt incurred for the development of the Town Park – a recommendation subsequently agreed to by the current town council. Patti’s business experience will benefit the Town of Oak Ridge, as already proven by her suggestion of a viable alternative to filling a temporary position in the Town Hall office. As a resident of Oak Ridge who moved here because of what Oak Ridge stood for – small town rural charm with responsible and controlled growth, I firmly believe that Patti will help Oak Ridge achieve this goal. All residents of Oak Ridge should vote for Patti Paslaru for Oak Ridge Town Council. Dawn Treacy, OAK RIDGE

Voicing support for friends 8004 Linville Rd, Suite E-3, Oak Ridge

(336) 643-4623

 Administration of estates and trusts  Wills, trusts and estate planning  Guardianships  Small business start-ups  Contracts

attorneybillbarbour.com

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

I am writing to voice my support for two friends, Mike Adams and Tim Sessoms. In being fully transparent, these two gentlemen have supported our efforts when I began my own political journey four years ago. However, I am not writing a political endorsement as much as I am speaking on behalf of people doing their best to make a difference for our community Mike Adams, through his own personal hardship, has revealed his faith and character as a person of strength and resolve. His work in the agriculture industry is recognized all the way to Capitol Hill and I believe his leadership

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

is a huge benefit for Summerfield. Tim Sessoms is one of the greatest servants I’ve ever met. In getting a chance to know him, I have realized how many people reach out to him weekly asking for help, guidance or support. I can’t recall a single time, no matter the personal sacrifice, that he’s not immediately engaging the situation, working on a well thought-out solution. Greensboro and Summerfield know Tim Sessoms as a giver. He has been a true friend to me and there is no doubt in my mind that he has Summerfield’s best interests at heart. U.S. Rep. Mark Walker, GREENSBORO

AUTO SALES & SERVICE

SAVE THE DATE

CLASSIC CARS WANTED! Sport Auto in Summerfield will buy your classic car. Contact Steve, (336) 643-9595.

Stokesdale Fall Festive CRAFT FAIR, Sat., Oct. 21, 9am-6pm, 8405 & 8407 Stokesdale Street, Stokesdale. Come check out 90+ vendors! Handmade crafts, baked goods, face painting, food trucks, shaved ice & more! For vendor info, contact Mary Jordahl at showinfomj@gmail.com.

PALESTINE UMW FALL BAZAAR, Sat.,

EUROPEAN AUTO SERVICE & REPAIR We specialize in factory-scheduled maintenance and repairs. Mercedes, BMW, Volks wagon, Audi, Volvo, Mini, Porsche, and Lexus. 32 years experience. Knight Import Specialty Service, 4559 US Highway 220, Summerfield (across from Food Lion). (336) 337-0669.

Place online at

DEADLINE: Monday prior to each issue

NEED HELP? Call (336) 644-7035 ext. 10 Mon - Fri • 9am -2pm

INDEX Auto Sales & Service .................. 35 Employment ............................... 35 Save the Date ............................ 35 Yard/Garage Sales ...................... 35 Youth Sports ............................... 36 Home Services ....................... 36-37 Misc. Services.............................. 37 Misc. for Sale ........................ 37-38 Misc. Wanted ............................. 38 Pets & Animal Services ................ 38 Real Estate ................................. 38

LIGHT AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE L & T Small Engine Service. Brakes, rotors, oil changes, light engine repair. 2013 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge, (336) 298-4314.

EMPLOYMENT Looking for a part-time, high-energy PET LOVER to join our team. Retail experience preferred. Must be able to work all hours, including weekends, and learn all aspects of pet nutrition. Apply online at www.best4K9.com. MEDICAL INSURANCE SPECIALIST needed. Full-time, experience preferred. Attention to detail, organizational skills and ICD10 knowledge necessary. To submit a resume, fax to (336) 644-0680.

HIRING? We can help! Reach all of northwest Guilford County in a publication that people actually read! Place your employment classified online at www.nwobserver.com,

or call Laura, 644-7035, ext. 10.

SAVE THE DATE Moravia Moravian Church FALL BAZAAR, on Saturday, October 21, 7:30am-1pm, 2920 Oak Ridge Road. Breakfast, lunch, crafts, Moravian stars, chicken pies, canned goods, quilt raffles & more! CRAFT SALE, Sat., Oct. 21, 9am-2pm, Friendly Avenue Baptist Church, 4800 W. Friendly Avenue, Greensboro.

TRACTOR OR TREAT at Summerfield Farms, Tuesday, Oct. 24, 5:30-7pm. Food trucks, inflatables, costume contest & more! See display ad on page 11 for more info. NWHS POWDER PUFF FOOTBALL, Wednesday, October 25, 7pm, Northwest High football field. Food trucks open at 6pm. $5 admission. See display ad on page 27 for more info. TRUNK OR TREAT at Oak Ridge United Methodist Church, Saturday, October 28, 5:30-7:30pm. Candy, games, food & fun! See display ad on page 25 for more details. STOKESDALE COMMUNITY DAY, Sat., Oct. 28, 10am-2pm, Stokesdale Town Hall. Free hot dogs & snacks, library book sale, bounce house, canned food drive & more! See display ad on page 14 for more info. Come on out to the Keep It Local ART & POTTERY SHOW, Saturday, October 28, from 10am-4pm, 2409 Oak Ridge Rd., Oak Ridge. 25 local artists will be showing their work. We will have pottery, jewelry, painting, wood work, dolls, and much more. Wild Fire Pizza will be here with their fun and funky food truck. The Reloads will be playing acoustic music. Bring 6 cans of food or $5 and you can participate in the art hunt. Art Hunt begins at 11am and runs while supplies last. Call (336) 337-6493 with any questions. We can’t wait to see you there! Merchants of Oak Ridge’s 13th annual GREAT PUMPKIN EVENT, Sat., Oct. 28, 3-5pm, Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center. Trick or Treat with local merchants, costume contest, pet costume contest, live music, hay rides and much more! See display ad on page 12 for all the info.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Nov. 4, 8am-12n, 2954 Ellisboro Road, Stokesdale. Breakfast, baked goods, vendors, holiday items, quilt & afghan raffle. Something for everyone! ORPC ARTS & CRAFTS EXTRAVAGANZA, Saturday, Nov. 18, 9am-1pm, Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, 2615 Oak Ridge Road. Vendor space available, $25; includes table and chairs. For more information and to print an application form, please visit ORPC.org or call (336) 643-3452.

Something

going on

Tell northwest Guilford County Place your Save the Date online at

YARD/GARAGE SALES MOVING SALE!!

Everything must go!

Saturday, Oct. 21, 7381 Hidden View Dr., Oak Ridge. TWO-FAMILY YARD SALE, Sat., Oct. 21, 8am-12n, Athens Road (off Hwy. 158), Stokesdale. Boys’ and girls’ clothes, toys, costumes, strollers and more. YARD SALE, Saturday, Oct. 21, 7-11am, 2135 Beeson Road, Oak Ridge. Women’s clothing/shoes, pottery, china, glassware, silverware, holiday items, nice gift items, candles, more! HUGE YARD SALE, Sat., Oct. 21, 8am-?, Deer Run Court, Oak Ridge (River Oaks sub.). Furniture, boy’s 3m-2T & much more!

... continued on p. 36

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

YOUTH SPORTS

HOME SERVICES

BASKETBALL & CHEERLEADING registration now open, Stokesdale Parks & Rec. Visit www.stokesdaleparksandrec.com to register and for more details, or see display ad in our October 13 issue.

ELECTRICAL

APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance. A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707.

WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Complete lawn care & landscaping. NC lic. irrigation contractor. 20 years exp. Hardscaping, fertilization & weed control. (336) 399-7764.

HOME SERVICES

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

FLOORING

AMERICAN MAID New to your area. Two years experience. All your basic housecleaning needs. Call for your free estimate. (336) 409-4554.

MONTERO’S HARDWOOD FLOORING Installation of hardwood, laminate & tile; hardwood sanding & finishing. Commercial & residential. Insured, 17 years experience. Free estimates & excellent references. Visit Monteros-hardwood-flooring.com, or call (336) 215-8842.

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

It’s A CARPET thing! Repairs, restretch, replace. (336) 643-6500.

CLEANING

HOME CLEANING. Afford. rates, ref. avail., 10 years exp. Elizabeth, (336) 453-8592. CastleWorks WINDOW CLEANING Includes gutters, pressure washing, chandeliers and other high ladder work. Fully insured and bonded, free estimates. (336) 609-0677. www.castleworkswindowcleaning.com. MAID-2-SHINE. Excellent service, 15 years exp. Free estimates., excellent references. (336) 338-0223. CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING, gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. windowcleaningnc.com. (336) 595-2873. MAIDS OF HONOR HOME CLEANING $25 off! Locally owned, bonded staff. 40 years in service. BBB A+ rating. (336) 708-2407. WINDOW GENIE WINDOW CLEANING 3M Window Film - save on your energy bills and enjoy the view. Fully ins. Free est. Greensboro.windowgenie.com, (336) 268-8586.

Your business should be here!

Follow us on Facebook and keep up with all the news! GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES L & T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE LLP “We get you mowing!” Free pickup and delivery. 2103 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge. (336) 298-4314. GREENERTIMES SMALL ENGINE Sales & Service Center. All types sold and repaired; comm/res. 9428 NC Hwy. 65, Stokesdale. (336) 548-9286 or (336) 312-3844.

Decks | Sun & Screened Porches Roofing | Windows | Gutters REPAIRS | RENOVATIONS (336) 643-0531 haleyhahn.com Licensed & insured

Let us introduce you to our readers (all 25,000 plus!). We’ll help create a marketing plan that works for you! Call Laura, (336) 644-7035 or email info@nwobserver for more info.

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

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.

OLD SCHOOL HOME REPAIR/ IMPROVEMENT

“No Job Too Small”

Jerry & Lisa Potkay, Owners • Oak Ridge, NC

(336) 669-7252

Accredited A+ Rating, oldschoolsjhr@triad.rr.com BBB of Central NC Home Repairs & Improvements • Painting Wood Rot Repairs • Bathroom Remodeling Decks and much more! • Insured

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

LAWN CARE / LANDSCAPING CUTTING EDGE LAWNCARE. Affordable. Dependable. Mowing, aeration, leaf removal and more! Please call anytime for free estimate, (336) 706-0103. ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call (336) 382-9875. DELIMA LAWNCARE. Licensed and insured. Free estimates. (336) 669-5210. FAY’S LAWNCARE & LANDSCAPING Fall lawn care, seeding & aerating. Tree work. Pine needles & mulch. Reasonable and honest. Call Taylor, (336) 458-6491.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

AREA STUMP DUMP. Yard waste, concrete, etc. Fill dirt avail. (336) 602-5820. BRAD’S BOBCAT. Mulch, landscaping, pine needles and straw. (336) 362-3647. CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, (336) 6439332, carolinaStumpAndTreeServices.com. EXTERIOR GREENSCAPES LLC Lawncare services / aeration & seeding. (336) 682-1456. COLFAX LAWNCARE – Core aeration & seeding. Fertilizing, mowing, trimming, pine needles. Complete lawn care maintenance. Res./comm. Fully insured. Serving the Triad for 28 years. (336) 362-5860. ORTIZ LANDSCAPING, complete lawn care. Trimming, cleaning, planting & mulch, gutter cleaning, patios & pavers, waterfalls, retaining walls, sidewalks, stonework. Residential and commercial. (336) 280-8981. STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Lic./Ins. 30 yrs. exp. Bucket truck/chipper, total cleanup. Selective thinning & lot clearing. 24-hr. ER svc. OR, NC. (336) 643-1119. TRACTOR FOR HIRE – Bush hogging, grading, brush/tree removal. (336) 207-6632. ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Bobcat work and more. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. Call Joe at (336) 643-9157. AQUA SYSTEMS IRRIGATION. Quality irrigation systems. NC licensed contractor. We service all systems. Free estimates. (336) 644-1174. GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490.

HOME SERVICES

MASONRY

STILL PERFECTION PAINTING Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com.

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, siding, dock work, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Sr. disc., 38 years exp. (336) 362-6343.

ROOFING

CINDY’S PAINTING – Interior painting, wallpaper removal. References & free estimates available. (336) 708-9155.

HAMMERSMITH WOODWORKING INC. Carpentry, custom cabinetry, built-ins, exterior repairs. ASP - Helping Hand. Over 30 years exp.. Call Carlton, (336) 404-3002.

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

Mulch & landscape aggregates

8605 Triad Dr, Colfax (336) 996-4918 marshallstone.com

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

(336) 931-0600

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

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

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

PRESSURE WASHING WINDOW GENIE PRESSURE WASHING Soft house washing. Window film, window cleaning, gutters. Fully ins. Free est., Greensboro.windowgenie.com, (336) 268-8586.

www.fmtriad.com

PAINTING & DRYWALL PAINTING – INTERIOR & EXTERIOR 32 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. No job too small. Insured. Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186. CARLOS & SON PAINTING, interior & exterior. Free est., lic/ins. (336) 669-5210.

Construction Services, INC

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Screened porches | Sunrooms | Patios

644-8615 office 508-5242 cell

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

336/404-1471

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

PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Fully insured. Crystal Clear, www. windowcleaningnc.com. (336) 595-2873. CUTTING EDGE PRESSURE WASHING Affordable. Dependable. Please call anytime for free estimate, (336) 706-0103.

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION PREMIER CONSTRUCTION. Providing all of your home maintenance needs, remodeling and new construction. (336) 430-9507.

A.L. CORMAN ROOFING INC. Res. roofing specialist serving Guilford Cty. area since 1983. BBB 25+ years w/ A+ rating. cormanroofinginc.com, (336) 621-6962. CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC Residential roofing, rubber flat roofs, roof coating, metal roofs. 30 years experience. Now accepting all major credit cards. Call (336) 643-8191 or (336) 580-3245. RED RHINO ROOFING, based in Oak Ridge, NC. Storm damage specialist experienced with all types of roofing. BBB accredited A and listed with Angie’s List. Call (336) 944-6118, or visit redrhinoroofing.com. PREMIER ROOFING CONSTRUCTION Insurance specialist, free inspections, res./ comm., BBB A rating. (336) 430-9507.

MISC. SERVICES

Licensed & insured NC Gen. Contractor #72797

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. JLB REMODELING, INC. Remodeling and additions. Fully insured. NC GC license #69997. Free est. Call (336) 681-2902 or visit www.jlbremodeling.com.

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

available here

We carry moving & shipping supplies

(336) 643-9963 • 8207 B & G Court, Stokesdale SAM’S AUTO BODY SHOP. Any type of body work. 45 years exp. (336) 347-7470. ERIE INSURANCE – IN KERNERSVILLE Long Insurance Services, (336) 992-5664. COMPUTER REPAIRS – ITBASICS.COM Inside Mailboxes & More, Oak Ridge Commons. (336) 643-0068.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

MISC. FOR SALE BAGGER FOR 42” CUB CADET riding mower, like new. $75. (336) 508-0513.

...continued on p. 38

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

MISC. FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE

PUMPKINS, MUMS & FRESH PRODUCE. Knight’s Produce, 14809 Highway 158, Summerfield. Call (336) 708-0485.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

THREE-BEDROOM CONDO on Belews

SPLIT & SEASONED FIREWOOD. Delivery available. (336) 643-9332.

Lake. Includes 2 boat lifts and 2 jet ski lifts.

We Help Everyone! SELLERS & BUYERS

Got stuff? Sell it here in the

NWO classifieds submit your ad at

www.nwobserver.com

CLASSIC SOUTHERN CHARM!

Please call (336) 254-3084. NORTHWEST

SCHOOLS,

3BR,

2BA,

1-car garage. $169,000. Please call (336) 937-2248.

PERSIMMON PULP, jam, pudding, and more! (336) 816-3441 or (336) 996-3892. SEASONED FIREWOOD, delivered and stacked, 1/2 cord, $80. Call (336) 686-6373.

REAL ESTATE

LAND FOR SALE

(336) 643-4248

www.ANewDawnRealty.com

23+ ACRES, STONEVILLE, NC, Grogan Road, within minutes of Lowes and Walmart.

Up-and-coming growing area,

hunting stand, feeders, well, pond, stream

Call me for professional buyer and seller services!

running along property, large 30’x50’ stor-

A true Southern charmer beginning with a welcoming wrap-around front porch, grand double entry and large foyer. This exceptional home was built by Gary Jobe and offers everything you desire in a home in Henson Farms. 4800+/- SQFT, 4 BR/4.5 BA. Offered at $700,000

Nancy J. Hess

age building. Hunting retreat with A/C, mini

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

kitchen, sleeping area, open fields, wooded areas, last perked in 2014. Showings by appointment only.

Cash or pre-qualified

Gil Vaughan

buyers only. $199K. Call (561) 704-6179.

(336) 337-4780

NEW CONSTRUCTION IN THE NORTWEST!

Realtor ®/Broker

JustCallGil.com

MISC. WANTED $$$ – WILL PAY CASH up to $200 for your junk or wrecked vehicle. (336) 552-0328. FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, any and all gas items, tillers, gocarts & golf carts, ATVs, generators, power washers, chain saws. (336) 689-4167.

PETS & ANIMAL SVCS. PET SITTING / BOARDING KPS – KELLY’S PET SERVICES Professional in-your-home PET SITTING. Insured & bonded. Member Pet Sitters International. Openings currently available for Oak Ridge only. Call (336) 706-6706, email kpsforyourpets@gmail.com, www.facebook. com/kpspets, or @kpspets on Instagram. Ready for a new family member? See our Pets & Critters section in the first issue of each month for animals looking for a forever home!

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

HOMES FOR RENT OAK RIDGE, 3BR, 2BA, totally remodeled, HW floors throughout, SS appliances, granite CT, 1 acre, storage building, NW schools. No dogs. $1,200/mo., first/last mo. security dep. (336) 298-4349. SUMMERFIELD, large older home, 2BR, 1BA down; in-law suite up w/ 3BR, 1BA. $950/mo., $550 dep. (336) 996-4649 or (336) 688-1773. STOKESDALE. Taking apps for 3BR, 2BA house. Shelters, workshop, 2-acre lot. 193 Middleton Rd., Stokesdale. $875/mo., $875/dep. (336) 627-5681.

HOMES FOR SALE SUMMERFIELD, 3BR, 1.5BA, brick home, fireplace, wood stove. Full basement w/ walk-out and garage doors. Two-car carport. Zoned AG, lots of road frontage. Well and septic. Northern schools. $194,700. (336) 643-6188.

2807 Alderman Court, Greensboro Welcome to EAGLE RIDGE a 17-lot new neighborhood just off, Pleasant Ridge Road near Lake Higgins. Building Dimensions, MD Builders and Otey Construction offer homes currently under construction, ready in early spring. Prices from high $500’s, acre sites in sought-after NW schools. Muddy Shoe tours available now.

Completely renovated brick ranch home in the popular Friendly Center area. Renovated kitchen with new cabinets, fixtures, countertop, and appliances. Refinished hardwood floors. All main level living. Oversized windows. New laundry room. New light fixtures. Renovated baths. Charming screened porch. New landscaping. Outside storage building. Walk to neighborhood pool. Located on a cul de sac for privacy. $293,000

Nancy J. Hess

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

Want to be a part of our next NWO Real Estate section? Reserve your ad space today (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 advertising@nwobserver.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Jake Letterman (336) 338-0136

index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

Please support our advertisers, and tell them where you saw their ad! ACCOUNTING

EuroHaus ............................................ 9 Piedmont Truck Tires Inc. .................. 28 Vestal Buick ....................................... 26

Max Kendall Lumber & Tin ............... 40 New Garden Landscape & Nursery ..... 4 New Garden Select ............................. 9 Old School Home Repair ................... 36 ProStone ............................................11 Southern States .............................Insert Stokesdale Heating & Air ................... 29 Stokesdale Storage ............................ 37

BUILDERS

LEGAL SERVICES

Kimberly Thacker Accounting ............ 40 Samuel Anders, CPA, MSA, PC.......... 26

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE

Greensboro Builders Association ......... 6 TM Construction Services .................. 37 Walraven Signature Homes ................. 3

CANDIDATES

MEDICAL CARE / PRODUCTS

CHURCHES Oak Ridge United Methodist Church .25 Summerfield First Baptist Church ......... 8

ORTHODONTIC CARE

DENTAL CARE Borden Dentistry .................................. 8

EVENTS Great Pumpkin Event ..........................12 NWHS Powder Puff Football Game ... 27 Stokesdale Community Day ................14 Summerfield Farms Tractor & Treat ....11 Town of Summerfield Touch a Truck . 23

FUNERAL SERVICES Forbis & Dick – Brooke Chapel........... 40 home products & services BEK Paint Company........................... 37 Carpets by Direct ............................... 30 Carpet Super Mart ........................ 20-21 Elegant Transformations by Marcie .....13 Furniture Medic ................................. 37 Haley Hahn Home Solutions ............. 36 House of Stars ....................................13 Marshall Stone .................................. 37

ke a m d l ...cou at fit. a gre

Attorney Bill Barbour ......................... 34 Scott Tippett Law .............................. 29

Aetna Health Care ........................Insert Carolina Priority Care........................... 2 Dove Medical Supply ..........................15 LeBauer Healthcare ............................ 7 Northwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery .25

Adams, Laughlin, Sessoms .................10 children’s services Guardian Ad Litem Program ............. 24

ers d a e r r Ou ur and yo ess... busin

Olmsted Orthodontics ....................... 24 Reynolds Orthodontics ........................ 5

PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital ................13 Carolina Value Pet Care .....................14 Northwest Animal Hospital ................ 22 Stokesdale Veterinary Hospital ........... 40 Veterinary Hospital of Oak Ridge.........13 Westergaard Kennels ......................... 22

REAL ESTATE A New Dawn Realty........................... 38 Gil Vaughan, Keller Williams .............. 38 Nancy Hess, Berkshire Hathaway ...... 38

Deliver your message to over 26,000 readers each week Contact us to start your advertising program

RETAIL Bi-Rite Galaxy Supermarket ...........Insert Goodwill Industries .............................18

(336) 644-7035, ext. 10 • advertising@nwobserver.com

YOUTH SPORTS YMCA of Greensboro .........................17

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

OCT. 20 - 26, 2017

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Postal Patron

Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22

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

gems in

ECRWSS

downtown

Stokesdale Forbis&Dick Funeral Homes

Your full-service funeral home

Your friends and neighbors providing kind, caring service for over years. Stokesdale 8320 Hwy 158, (336) 643-3711

Individual & Small Business Bookkeeping & Payroll Individual & Corporate Tax Returns

Greensboro 1118 N Elm St, (336) 275-8408 5926 W Friendly Ave, (336) 299-9171

PO Box 469 • 8400 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale

(336) 644.2741 • kim.thacker@att.net

$20 OFF

exam with your pet in costume

Serving Stokesdale, Greensboro, Oak Ridge & Summerfield • forbisanddick.com

Max Kendall Lumber & Tin METAL ROOFING

during October 2017

HOME • FARM • COMMERCIAL • Plain & painted tin (20 colors) • Classic rib, standing seam & 5V • PBR panel 40-year warranty – American-made

LUMBER

ROUGH, DRESSED & TREATED

Dr. Mindy Wesely • Dr. Amelia Hubbard 8208 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale • (336) 643-8515

STORAGE BUILDINGS

20% OFF FOR CASH

Corner of NC 68 & US 158 in Stokesdale Open Mon- Fri 8am- 4:30pm • (336) 643-9777 • Toll-free 1-888-434-2825

stokesdalevet.net

FREE rabies vaccines for sasquatches!

WE FINANC METAL E ROOFS

Certified Vet