Northwest Observer | October 27 - November 2, 2017 by pscommunications

Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2017

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Chairman defends committee’s mission, process, integrity

UDO Review Committee Chair Andrew Broom says committee’s focus is solely on aligning the UDO with the Town’s citizen-driven comprehensive plan By PATTI STOKES SUMMERFIELD – As chairman of Summerfield’s UDO (Unified Development Ordinance) Review Committee, Andrew Broom wants to get this message out into the community: the committee is not pushing through a PD (Planned Development) zoning district. Since a proposed text amendment to add a PD zoning district to Summerfield’s Development Ordinance surfaced last fall, it has been the most

highly-charged and debated issue in the Town’s history. Well-attended public hearings and a question-and-answer session earlier this year seemed to only further fuel the fire, and two groups, Keep Summerfield Rural and Save Our Summerfield, have since sprung up in response. Within the last several weeks a “No PD” group of candidates has united, with Gail Dunham as the group’s mayoral candidate and Teresa Pegram, co-founder of Save Our Summerfield, and Todd Rotruck running for Town Council. In the weeks leading up to the election “No PD” signs have sprouted up throughout the community and supporters organized a candidate forum on Oct. 12 for the three “No PD” candidates. Summerfield Town Councilman

John O’Day read a statement at the council’s Oct. 10 monthly meeting which said, “There is absolutely no truth to any assertion this council is working with developers to ‘push through a PD ordinance.’ Again, we have appointed the UDO Committee to advise the Zoning Board on the specifications for all development districts in the draft UDO to ensure they conform to the Comprehensive Plan.” The statement also said the council opposes town-wide high-density development, inappropriate and large-scale commercial development, apartment complexes and high rises, strip malls “and other forms of development not supportive of our rural character as a town.”

IN THIS ISSUE Your Questions...................... 4 Stokesdale Town Council.... 6 Summerfield Town Council.10 Candidate Q&A.................. 11 Bits & Pieces........................ 28 Youth/School News............ 29 High School Sports..............31 ‘A Message 2 Die 4’............ 32 Student Profiles................... 34 Community Calendar.........37 Grins & Gripes..................... 40 Crime/Incident Report....... 42 Letters/Opinions................. 42 Classifieds........................... 43 Index of Advertisers............47

Town Manager Scott Whitaker sent out a press release earlier the same

...continued on p. 3 Photo courtesy of Jeremy Vinson

What are the chances? Northwest High School alumni Jeremy Vinson (left) of Oak Ridge, who is in the Marines, and Josh Homol of Stokesdale, who is in the Army, recently ran into each other … in Afghanistan. Vinson and Homol played football together in middle and high school. “He told me that he was in Afghanistan and it just so happened that I got sent there and we met up,” Vinson said. At left, the two are shown proudly holding a North Carolina flag.

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

This little “joker” and her parents were among the 1,600 people who attended Summerfield Farms’ Tractor & Treat event on Oct. 24. See more photos from this event in next week’s issue and at www. Facebook. com/NorthwestObserver.

Early Voting daily through Nov. 4 Visit www.myguilford. com/elections for details.

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UDO COMMITTEE ...continued from p. 1

day that offered progress reports on a water feasibility study and on the 15-member UDO Review Committee, which has been meeting twice a month since late July. “The PD amendment that generated such lively debate months ago was put on hold in April,” Whitaker stated in the press release. “It is no longer being considered as originally proposed, although our development challenges remain…” “No PD” supporters are still not convinced the Town will not push the PD zoning district forward, however. Among those supporters is Elizabeth McClellan, a member of Keep Summerfield Rural, who wrote in an editorial posted on Summerfield News, “At UDO committee meetings, the Town Planner has begun to change the unpopular PD to a “development plan” or a PAD ‘planned area development.’ Change the name to whatever you want, the people don’t want it! Mixed use plans that combine commercial, residential including apartments, and industrial are not rural.” On Oct. 19, Chairman Andrew Broom took a few minutes at the beginning of the UDO Review Committee meeting to address what he referred to as misinformation and politicizing. Broom, who had missed the committee’s Oct. 5, said he watched it on video. “…When I watched the video, it struck me that there was a big disconnect at the end of that meeting,” he said. “I want to make sure that we are all on the same page. “Is anyone in this group trying to push a zoning district? Is anyone trying to push through a PD?” Broom asked of each committee member. Their answers were a unanimous “no.” “Okay, so I’m going to say to Summerfield News (who was videoing the meeting), that not anyone on this committee is pushing through, railroading

or whatever words you want to use, a planned development,” Broom said. “We are doing what we are supposed to be doing, which is looking at the Comprehensive Plan and aligning it with the UDO and finding out where those are inconsistent.” Broom then referenced a citizen’s comment after the Oct. 5 meeting, “I’m glad you didn’t approve a PD.” To that, he said the proposed text amendment to add a PD zoning district, which had caused such a stir, was not the same as what the committee had been discussing during that meeting. “The PD in here (referring to the comp plan) is not the PD that was talked about a year ago,” Broom said. “That’s off the table.” Broom said in one email after the Oct. 5 meeting, a citizen wrote, “At the Thursday, Oct. 5 UDO Committee meeting – with no public notice – they almost voted to approve a recommendation to include a PD.” Of his fellow committee members, Broom again asked, “Did anyone in here think we were voting on a PD?” And again, they answered, “No.” “So there is a lot of confusion – or politicizing – about what we are doing,” Broom said. “We are volunteering our time to do what we are supposed to do… We are not pushing through a PD. I don’t appreciate lies about our committee and it is not fair to everyone who is volunteering our time… It’s a slap in our face.” During the Public Comments period at the end of the meeting, Gail Dunham, who is running for mayor, referenced Broom’s “strong language” and “personal attacks,” and said when she is mayor, she will not tolerate that. “There was no personal attack, but I am going to defend this committee and what we are doing. I am going to defend when things we are doing are twisted in the public eye,” Broom responded.

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

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If Stokesdale Town Council member Frank Bruno wins the race for mayor, he’ll have two years remaining on his four-year council term. How will that seat be filled? Under N.C. General Statute 160A-63, “a vacancy that occurs in an elective office of a city shall be filled by appointment of the city council.” The statute, however, provides no guidance as to how a council should or can seek candidates to fill a vacant seat. If the scenario occurs as described, the council could take applications, go with the town council candidate with the second-highest number of votes or could appoint anyone – including Mayor Randy Braswell, who is not running for re-election.

The council invited citizens interested in filling the vacant seat to submit an application. Eight did, although one was ruled ineligible because he was a high school freshman and not old enough to vote. At the council’s Jan. 21, 2014, meeting, Jones made a motion to appoint Albert, who did not submit an application but had finished second to White-Lawrence. The motion was unanimously approved. Two months later, Albert resigned from the council because of his wife’s health issues. The council voted to invite those interested in serving on the council to speak at a council meeting and make their cases. Lowe, Tim Jones and Joe Thacker did so. During a special meeting Aug. 5, 2014, the council voted unani-

Stokesdale does not have a specific policy on how to fill a vacant council seat, but Mayor Pro Tem Bill Jones said councils traditionally appoint someone to an empty seat. The last time it happened in Stokesdale was after the 2013 election, when Braswell was elected mayor with two

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years remaining on his four-year term on the town council. During that election, White-Lawrence defeated Gary Albert and Eric Lowe for the council seat vacated by Mickie Halbrook, who did not run for re-election.

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

“When Randy was elected, we chose to take applications (from those who wished to serve the rest of his term),” Bruno said, “but that process was tedious and seemed to take too long. In the long run, it is the choice of council on how to proceed.”

On Oct. 16 we were traveling home on I-73 north, two miles from the Summerfield exit, when the SUV in front of us hit a doe, sustained major damage and spun into the grass median. Two 911 calls were placed, the first at 7:22 p.m., and when we left the accident scene at 7:59 p.m., no police, fire or sheriff had responded. There were pieces of metal and glass all over and trucks and cars sped by without even touching their brakes.

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The driver and passenger did not know if they were hurt and their SUV was smoking from the engine compartment.

Why does the response time take so long for emergencies? This was a very disappointing display of our local police/fire/emergency response – and the passing motorists, too! We can’t speak for the passersby, but we got prompt responses when we reached out to Summerfield Fire Chief Chris Johnson and Oak Ridge Fire Chief Steve Simmons. Johnson told us Summerfield Fire District was not dispatched to the accident. “The way Fire and EMS is dispatched depends on how the 911 caller answers a series of questions from Guilford Metro Communications,” Johnson said. “They follow the Emergency Medi-

cal Dispatch (EMD) and Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD). EMD allows the call taker to quickly narrow down the caller’s type of medical or trauma situation, so as to better dispatch emergency services and provide quality instruction to the caller before help arrives. “EFD is the same, but deals with fire-related calls. Most likely what happened is the person who called 911 advised the call taker there was no injury and no fluid leaks, which would have spawned an N.C. State Highway Patrol-only response to investigate the accident.” Christine Moore, operations manager with Guilford Metro 911, confirmed this particular incident was called in to Guilford Metro 911 at 7:22 p.m. as reported. “The telecommunicator processing the call took the caller’s information and began to question her regarding the incident,” Moore said. “His first question was regarding injuries to the occupants of the vehicle. Asking this question guides a lot of what will take place in the call processing phase of an incident. If the answer had been ‘yes,’ the call would have remained with Guilford Metro 911 and a series of questions (based on the EMD that Johnson referred to above) would have been asked, and Guilford County EMS, Summerfield and Stokesdale Fire Departments, and the State Highway Patrol

would have responded. “In this particular case, the caller responded with, ‘Everybody’s okay (indicating there were no injuries),’ therefore we connected the caller directly with the State Highway Patrol for their response to the accident scene. “The second call came in to Guilford Metro 911 at 7:59 p.m. This caller was also connected to the State Highway Patrol, as they were inquiring on the response time to their accident.” Simmons noted the call screening process by Guilford Metro 911 also determines whether the fire departments are alerted on medical calls.

“Often, again based on the information provided by the caller, a request for EMS (an ambulance) may not require a fire department response (these are usually non-emergency responses),” Simmons said. “This is often confusing to the caller, since they may be expecting the local fire department to respond to the 911 call.” “We always encourage our citizens to inquire when they have questions regarding our level of service, or have general questions,” Moore said. Have a non-emergency question about how 911 calls are handled? Call (336) 373-2222 and select option 3 for the Communications Center.

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

STOKESDALE town council

Oct. 12 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by STEVE MANN After calling the monthly council meeting to order at 7 p.m., Mayor Randy Braswell gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Council members Frank Bruno, Tim Jones and Vicki White-Lawrence; deputy clerks Alisa Houk and Diana Marcus; Town Attorney Katy Gregg; Town Planner Oliver Bass; and about 15 citizens were present. Mayor Pro Tem Bill Jones, who was recovering from surgery, and Budget Officer Philip Pulliam were absent.

 4  0 to adopt the meeting agenda.

 3  1 – with Tim Jones voting nay – to approve minutes from the Aug. 30, Sept. 6 and Sept. 20 weekly Wednesday council meetings and the Sept. 14 regular monthly council meeting.

CITIZEN COMMENTS June Fulton of Wessex Drive said two trees from the property at 8011 Dorsett Downs Drive, which has been vacant the better part of four years, fell on her side-yard fence.

She inquired about the status of the Ordinance Review Committee’s review and rewrite of the nuisance ordinance. Braswell told her to call Town Hall and talk to town staff for the answer. Jaycee Spruill of Happy Hill Road in Kernersville said he is running for Stokesdale Town Council so he can be “a voice for residents of Stokesdale.” Spruill, who served eight years on the Planning Board and has previously run for town council, said he wants to work with local businesses and residents to strengthen Stokesdale’s economy. He said having a walkable, shoppable downtown is one way to achieve that, adding he would like to see a family restaurant downtown and a sidewalk from one stoplight to the other along U.S. 158 (Main Street). He also said he would like to see grants and projects to expand the Town’s sports and recreational activities.

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fice said the District 1 office received 631 calls in September, down from 670 in August. Vehicle break-ins continue to be the most prevalent crime in the area; the most recent incident occurred at TireMax off N.C. 68 when someone broke into vehicles that were parked in the parking lot overnight. Howell advised citizens to always remove valuables from their vehicles and to never hesitate to report any suspicious activity. Finance report. General fund income for the first quarter of fiscal year 2017-18 was $7,536.04, with planning and inspection fees accounting for $5,142.50. Expenses were $53,022.59. In the water enterprise account, income was $133,988.62, led by water sales totaling $106,979.79. Total expenses were $86,870.34, with $52,116.22 going to the purchase of water from Winston-Salem.

PUBLIC HEARINGS Rezoning, 15.37 acres. The council voted 4-0 to continue Sarah B. Combs’ request to rezone about 15.37 acres near the intersection of Warner and Anthony roads from AG (agriculture) to RS-40 (single-family homes, minimum 40,000-square-foot lot size) after Chris Rohrer of Land Solutions, representing Combs, explained that the previous day Combs had expressed some concerns about the rezoning area and the consequences, which he couldn’t answer. Rohrer requested a continuance to the Nov. 9 monthly council meeting. Rezoning, 2.33 acres. The council voted 4-0 to approve Sarah B. Combs’ request to rezone about 2.33 acres on the south side of Warner Road, about 2,300 feet west of the intersection of Warner and Anthony roads, from AG (agriculture) to RS-40 (single-family homes, minimum 40,000-square-foot lot size). The Planning Board voted Oct. 5 to recommend approving the

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request. Rohrer said the parcel was divided into lots for Combs’ grandsons. No one spoke in opposition. Town Hall rental fees. The council voted 2-2 – with Braswell and Tim Jones voting nay and Bruno and White-Lawrence voting aye – on Bruno’s motion to waive rental fees for the community and conference rooms in Town Hall for Stokesdale residents or groups consisting of at least 50 percent Stokesdale residents unless the event is a sales or for-profit event, and to try the policy for six months and then re-evaluate it. Braswell said Bruno could make a motion to reconsider at the Nov. 9 regular monthly council meeting. See story on front cover for details of this discussion. Personnel policy/handbook. The council voted 4-0 to continue discussion of a personnel policy/handbook to the Oct. 18 weekly Wednesday council meeting. When she took over as town clerk in February 2016, Kim Hemric indicated that developing a personnel handbook and written policies would be a priority. UPDATE: This item was not on the Oct. 18 meeting agenda. Community Day update. Bruno said the costs of the bounce house, food and promotional fliers for Community Day on Saturday, Oct. 28, will be covered by WoodmenLife and he proposed using $327 of the $500 budgeted for the event to purchase an ad in the Northwest Observer. It was suggested that the remainder of the budget be used to purchase juice boxes for the kids.

 4  0 to purchase an ad in the

Northwest Observer to publicize Community Day and to spend up to $100 on juice boxes. Planning Board appointments. Four applicants were considered for the Planning Board.

...continued on p. 8

TOWN COUNCIL ...continued from p. 6

 4  0 to appoint Jimmy Landreth, James P. Landreth III and Layton C. Spencer as alternates.

 2  2 to appoint the fourth ap-

plicant, H. Mark Nadel, who moved to Stokesdale on Aug. 11, as an alternate, with Braswell and Tim Jones voting nay, and Bruno and White-Lawrence voting aye. Braswell said he had known the other three applicants for years and was hesitant to appoint Nadel to a governing position without having spoken with him. White-Lawrence, who nominated Nadel, said, “Just because we don’t know him for 30 years doesn’t mean he wouldn’t be a good applicant. … I think we ought to give him a chance.” Braswell asked staff to continue working on a list of requirements for serving on the Planning Board. UPDATE: Nadel spoke to the council during its Wednesday, Oct. 18, meeting, outlining his experience and requesting the council reconsider his application. Spectrum quote. Braswell suggested continuing Spectrum’s solution proposal for the Town’s website and email problems to the weekly Oct. 18 meeting.

Tim Jones reminded the council it had authorized Tech Authority, the Town’s IT resource, to evaluate the Town’s website and server and make a written recommendation to council, and asked that the item be continued until the council hears from Tech Authority.

of Environmental Quality (DEQ) at no additional charge. Also, the Town has added lead/copper testing points and some bacterial testing points. The amended contract will be in effect Oct. 31 through Oct. 31, 2018. Braswell said it would require a budget amendment.

UPDATE: Hemric said Oct. 18 the owner of Tech Authority gave staff a verbal summary of its recommendation and she requested a written summary but had not yet received it. The council voted 4-0 to authorize staff to replace the internet package the Town currently has with Spectrum’s Internet Max bundle on a month-to-month basis, resulting in a price increase of $50 a month, plus a one-time charge of $99.

North Ridge Phase 3 certification. Braswell asked that the item be continued to Oct. 18 since the Town didn’t have all the required documents.

Meritech contract. The council voted 4-0 to approve an amended contract for Meritech, the licensed operator for the Town’s water system, for $18,000, and authorized the mayor to sign it. The previous contract, agreed to in 2012, was for $9,200. Braswell said the current contract with Meritech includes testing water daily Monday through Friday. He said a chlorinator station to boost the system’s chlorine levels was added a couple of years ago, and Meritech had been checking the station three times a week as required by the Department

UPDATE: After receiving the documentation, the council voted 4-0 on Oct. 18 to authorize Braswell to sign the certification forms from the developer of North Ridge, which confirm the water lines have passed inspection and Phase 3 of the development can move forward. Rural Economic Grant. Council continued discussion of a $33,000 grant for downtown revitalization through the Rural Economic Development Division of the N.C. Department of Commerce to Oct. 18. UPDATE: The council voted 4-0 on Oct. 18 to approve signing the agreement to accept the grant and to confirm it will be used for a downtown revitalization project. Electronic meter replacement. The council voted 4-0 to continue to Oct. 18 the consideration of estimates received from G2 Utilities, Fortiline Waterworks and Yates Construction for the replacement of electronic water meters. UPDATE: The item was not on the Oct. 18 meeting agenda. McGill task order. The council voted 4-0 to approve a supplement to the Master Services Agreement between Stokesdale and McGill Associates for McGill to conduct a water system development fee analysis required under the Public Water and Sewer System Development Fee Act that was signed into law July 20 by Gov. Roy Cooper, at a cost of $6,700.

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

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Water technician salary. The council voted 4-0 to continue consideration of the part-time water technician’s salary negotiation to the Oct. 18 weekly meeting. UPDATE: With an amended motion Oct. 18, the council voted 3-1 – with Tim Jones voting nay – to authorize Hemric to offer an applicant $18 an hour with a $1-an-hour raise after 90 days pending a satisfactory employee evaluation. (The council had voted 5-0 on Sept. 14 to hire the applicant for the position at $17 an hour for an average of 20 hours a week, not to exceed 80 hours a month without council approval.) Job description. Braswell initially made a motion to continue discussion of the town administrator’s job description to the weekly Oct. 18 council meeting. The draft of the proposed job description included 25 bullet points. Tim Jones wondered if, given the possible long-term effects on the town, the council should delay action until the new council is seated in December. Bruno noted Bill Jones, who was absent, helped write the draft job description and should be involved in the discussion.

 4  0 to approve Braswell’ s

amended motion to continue discussion of the job description. UPDATE: The council voted 4-0 on Oct. 18 to continue the item to the Oct. 25 weekly Wednesday council meeting. Attorney’s resignation. It was announced that Gregg had terminated her contract as town attorney, effective Oct. 30 or when Stokesdale hires a replacement, whichever occurs first. Braswell said he had learned a lot from Gregg and appreciated her service. The council discussed a proposal from attorney Brian T. Pearce of Nexsen Pruet, PLLC in Greensboro to represent the Town.

 4  0 to request a clarification

and the addition of a sufficient notice termination period in Pearce’s proposal and possibly bring it back for a vote Oct. 18. UPDATE: The draft reviewed Oct. 18 did not have the changes requested so the item was continued to the weekly Oct. 25 meeting. Debt collections. Council voted 4-0 to continue discussion of attorney Blinn L. Cushman’s proposal to represent the Town in the collection of past-due water bills to the weekly meeting on Oct. 18. UPDATE: The council voted 4-0 to forward the proposal dated Oct. 18 to Gregg for her review and to put it in contract form.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS Emergency Access Water Usage Policy. Braswell said he was doubtful he could complete the policy before leaving office and motioned to remove the item from the agenda and list as no action taken.

 4  0 to approve removing the agenda item.

Feasibility study. Braswell said Stokesdale’s next meeting with the Timmons Group about the feasibility study regarding a regional water authority would be Oct. 18, noting it would be a technical meeting. He suggested leaving the item on the agenda.

COMMITTEE/BOARD & ADMIN REPORTS Planning Board. Braswell announced that Joe Thacker and Mitchael Lawson Sr. had retired from the board, and thanked them for their service.

NEXT MEETING Thursday, Nov. 9 • 7pm Stokesdale Town Hall

CONTACT YOUR TOWN (336) 643-4011 stokesdale@stokesdale.org www.stokesdale.org

Community Day on Oct. 28. Administrative. Houk announced that Diana Marcus had resigned, effective Oct. 20, after serving three years, two months as deputy clerk. Marcus said she will be moving to Florida. Since the last regular monthly council meeting, there had been 29 work orders; five water meters sold; eight move-in, move-out transactions; and 91 811 locate requests processed, Houk said. Water meters were read Oct. 14 and bills sent out the following week. Houk noted the November water bills will reflect a rate increase of 25 cents for every 1,000 gallons – from $6.24 to $6.49 – to offset Winston-Salem’s price increase.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

heavy on my heart… My condolences to their families.”

similar request. Braswell thanked the citizens for attending and praised Marcus, saying, “We lose, Florida gains.” He said it was his last meeting officially as Stokesdale’s elected mayor and that he had learned a lot. “I have leaned on everybody in the state of North Carolina. The UNC School of Government will be glad I’m no longer here. …” He said he appreciated the support he had received from the Town, the council and the staff, and said he will consider volunteering to serve on the Planning Board.

Bruno thanked the citizens for coming and thanked Marcus for her service. He congratulated Countryside Manor, located on U.S. 158 in Stokesdale, on its 40th anniversary and said the celebration was great despite the rain. White-Lawrence said she also enjoyed Countryside Manor’s celebration. She thanked Marcus, Thacker, Lawson Sr. and Gregg for their service and said she had followed up on a citizen’s request to get the speed limit lowered in the citizen’s neighborhood and the process will be on file in Town Hall for anyone wishing to make a

The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m.

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Committees. Braswell said the Property Committee had overseen a successful Eagle Scout project completed by Jason Williams of Troop 600 involving posts to hold disc golf bags at the town park’s disc golf course.

Tim Jones thanked those who attended, thanked Thacker and Lawson Sr. for serving on the Planning Board and reminded everyone to vote. Jones then recognized the four soldiers assigned to the Army’s 3rd Special Forces Group based in Fort Bragg who were killed Oct. 4 in Niger.

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

SUMMERFIELD town council

Oct. 10 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS (continued from our Oct. 20-26 issue) as reported by PATTI STOKES Crawford then prepared to play a recording that had been left on his voicemail several years earlier. “As you hear this, think about all the words you heard tonight – kindness, being a good neighbor, etc.,” he said. The caller, whose voice was that of Councilman Reece Walker, asked if Crawford was a “f--- engineer,” and advised him to call “Seemore Butts” at (336) 643-8655, which is the number for Town Hall, where the call originated. Crawford said the result of the message left on his phone was that the Summerfield Parks and Recreation Committee on which the caller served was later disbanded in order to protect him – “That’s not the only reason, but it’s one of the reasons,” Crawford said. “Contrast that to Mr. Wendelken, who has been kicked off committee after committee,” Crawford continued. “Most recently, he was accused – from the Council table – of death threats against (council members) Ms. Laughlin and Mr. Adams. … What we have here is a very false witness against a neighbor. “You shut down a committee to protect one individual and you have no problem with embarrassing another individual … To the six candidates, I would like to know, do you think Don Wendelken is owed an apology, and do you think this assertion needs to be corrected?” Todd Rotruck, a candidate for Town Council, thanked those serving on the council, Mayor Brown, who would soon leave the council (Brown is not running for re-election) and those who may be leaving (Dianne Laughlin and Mike Adams are running for re-election). “Summerfield is at a crossroads and there is a lot of change coming down the road,” Rotruck said. “We have two land barons in Summerfield, they own

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

over 1,400 acres and they’re going to develop every acre. “The council needs somebody who understands development and zoning laws. That’s why I feel I’m the best candidate,” Rotruck continued. “With 20 years of experience in the construction industry, I have the education and experience to know how zoning can be used for protection and to prevent overdevelopment…” Current council member Dianne Laughlin, who is running for re-election, spoke next. “Any who have attended meetings know that I don’t always agree (with other council members), but I have a lot of respect for and love all of them,” Laughlin said, then corrected an earlier statement someone had made about how many finance officers the town has had (five, including Steve Kingsbury, who volunteered his services). Laughlin said she supports community recreation for all ages, controlled development and conservation of rivers, streams and wildlife. “I feel we have represented the town and we have listened to you. I thank you for coming out to speak out on the PD. I have not put down anybody in this community,” she said. As for why she hadn’t contributed copies of emails for the public records request (referencing Sean Dwyer’s earlier statement), Laughlin said she was told by the town attorney that wasn’t necessary, since she was included on the same emails other council members had been included on. “The attorney isn’t here to speak to that but you can call his office,” she said.

COMMITTEE REPORTS Historic. Linda Southard said the committee is planning a program on Sunday,

...continued on p. 26

are protected for future generations? 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 In last week’s Northwest Observer, all Summerfield Town Council candidates were given an opportunity to introduce themselves and tell why they are running for office. To read or review their bios, check out the online version of our Oct. 20-26 issue at www.nwobserver.com. For this week’s issue, we invited the candidates to answer a total of five questions (maximum 150 words per answer): All candidates were asked to answer Questions 1, 2 and 3. For Question 4, candidates chose between three questions we posed. And for Question 5, candidates were invited to come up with their own question and answer it. Below are the questions we asked of the Summerfield Town Council candidates, followed by the answers we received, presented unedited… QUESTION 1: In recent months there has been strong opposition to the Planned Development (PD) concept, which would allow for a greater variety of housing options and housing price points in Summerfield. Do you think more housing options are needed in Summerfield? If not, what do you say

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.

to young people and families who want to buy their first home in Summerfield but can’t afford one in the $500,000+ price range, and to those already living in Summerfield who are facing retirement and want to downsize? QUESTION 2: Some citizens seem to believe that commercial development in Summerfield should be either put on hold or severely limited. Provided a developer presents a plan that complies with every aspect of the town’s development ordinance, what would be your criteria for approving or opposing it? If you feel commercial development should be put on hold, for how long or until what happens? QUESTION 3: Some in Summerfield feel the town council is dysfunctional, while others seem to feel it is a group of vocal citizens who are dysfunctional. Which do you think is closer to the truth, and what can be done to change this? (Candidates were asked to choose between Questions 4A, 4B or 4C)

QUESTION 4B: Do you think the current council is responsive to citizens’ input and concerns? If not, what specifically would you do to make citizens with a variety of perspectives feel heard and respected? QUESTION 4C: The volume of pub-

Tim Sessoms MAYORAL CANDIDATE

“PD stands for Planned Development – planned, as opposed to development without a plan. Summerfield has neighborhoods that are examples of PD. I do believe we should consider ways and opportunities to address the fact that most young couples are unable to buy a home here and that our older residents are unable to downsize and stay in Summerfield. If we don’t, what message are we sending to these people groups? “I am not an expert in these areas, so my commitment is to pursue professionals who can direct us in making Summerfield all it can be while keeping our rural characteristics intact. It is

lic records requests in Summerfield is considerably higher compared to the neighboring towns of Oak Ridge and Stokesdale. Why do you think this is, and would you take any steps to reduce the number of public records requests? QUESTION 5: Candidates were invited to come up with their own question. important to note that the anti-PD candidates are not only against PD but also against our town park, athletic park, A&Y trails, purchasing historic buildings to protect our history, and purchasing open space to be preserved and not be developed in the future.”

“Have you ever seen the TV show ‘Under the Dome’? Summerfield is not under a dome, protected from the changes that are happening around it. This is why we need a mayor who listens and works together with citizens to find workable solutions. This makes the work of getting our Unified Development Ordinance completed that much more important, making sure it goes hand-inhand with our Comprehensive Plan. “There are areas away from neighborhoods that provide opportunity for some commercial development. It would be nice if those could be a place for unique shops and maybe a restaurant or two that are not large franchises –

...continued on p. 12

QUESTION 4A: Besides what is already being done, what, if any additional steps do you think the town should take to ensure its water supply and other natural resources

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

CANDIDATE Q&A ...continued from p. 11

maybe similar to Luigi’s or Rio Grande. We always want to protect the rural characteristics of our special town, so finding ways to control our development and work within the boundaries of our Comprehensive Plan will be important.”

“Our town council is not dysfunctional. It is important to have a place in our town council meetings for citizens to have a voice and be heard, and then the council respond to that voice. Despite the message that’s being put out there, that’s exactly what happened with the PD conversation of last February. Based on citizen input, that particular PD amendment is no longer being considered. “The UDO Review Committee is a great group of people working hard on the tedious task of making recommendations to ensure the bigger issues, such as density, are handled in line with our Comprehensive Plan. The council is doing its job. “Neither is Ms. Dunham dysfunctional. On the contrary, she is very intelligent. The problem is, she is divisive, disrespectful and negative in her approach. Too often she twists the truth to fit her own narrative. This is not what our town needs.”

“It seems that the public record requests from a small handful of citizens are going to be never ending, costing thousands in labor hours – your tax dollars. But that’s their right, and we will protect it. It is important to note in my previous term as mayor, the public records requests were totally caught up – the first time this has happened, to my knowledge. As mayor, we will make sure that once again they are all caught up and responded to. In addition, there are software packages that make information more accessible and transparent to the public. Putting something like this in place would provide easier access and limit the ones that would require hands-on labor. We will work hard to find ways to keep our staff small and not have to add new employees.”

Candidate-submitted question. Tim Sessoms asked, “Who is the best candidate for mayor and why?” “It all comes down to who can do the job better – and by ‘better,’ I mean fair and unbiased, treating people with respect and dignity. Ms. Dunham has shown over and over for years an inability to do that. As mayor, I worked hard to make sure people were respected and their voices were not only heard but considered. The thing that keeps Summerfield rural is our people! It’s living in a small town with limited government and everyone being friendly.

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

bullied into a decision or driven by fear. It’s about coming together and working on what makes us better! Vote for Tim Sessoms for mayor on Nov. 7 to do just that: Keep Summerfield Together!”

Gail Dunham

above-ground septic or heavy commercial adjacent to homeowners. I have always supported continuity of zoning.

MAYORAL CANDIDATE

“Town officials, on behalf of the developers, have pushed for PD since 2006, and the people have always been understandably opposed. “Question is based on false assumptions and weary of those talking points. Per county records only 13% of homes in Summerfield are over $500,000. Read the home sales numbers in the newspaper. “Builders can build smaller homes, duplexes, and cluster homes with more open space. The Town Council is 100% set on ‘PD=Planned Development,’ or now marketing it ‘DP=Development with a Plan’ with no density standards and no specific zoning. Town is saying ‘trust us.’ ‘Appropriate’ or ‘should’ means nothing – with no specifics the developers will proceed with high density and anything they want. The PD also gives power to one decision maker at Town Hall. “Eliminate PD from the 2012 draft Ordinance and move forward with possible modifications, legal read and end the PD now.”

On HWY 68 in Oak Ridge

It’s events like Music in the Park and Touch a Truck where people enjoy being together. It’s places like Purgason’s and The Jumping Bean. These are the things it’s all about. It’s not about being

“Commercial development is highly dependent on need. Commercial development does not happen when population density is below a certain point. Commercial zoning should only be considered if it meets the needs of the people. “Commercial development needs to be thoroughly reviewed to be certain it is compatible with adjacent development, with no

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

“We need zoning and council members that put politics aside, comply with a professional Ethics Ordinance to avoid any and all Conflicts of Interest, and consider all factors with all zoning requests.”

“It is sad to see the personal attacks against citizens from anyone who represents the Town. Watch the videos. As Mayor I will quickly oppose and stop personal attacks and redirect to discuss the issues. Those personal attacks are a liability to the Town and show a lack of democratic institutions. Current Mayor has received legal opinions at least twice that the U.S. Constitution protects the right of persons to make public comments, whether he agrees or not. Legal case law also states: ‘Before a person can be removed from a public meeting, there must be actual disruption… actual disruption must occur.’ To ‘perceive potential for disruption’ is not enough.” “A disruption from the citizens has never occurred in 15 years that I have attended meetings, so do not blame the citizens. As your new Mayor I will listen and lead in a positive direction and focus on town business.”

“As Mayor I will be responsive to citizens’ input and concerns. Professionally for 27 years I listened and responded to people, and I will do that as Mayor. “Far more documents and information will be available to the people on the website. Public Record Requests will be minimal. “Over 2000 people in Summerfield signed a petition to request that the Town Council take action and vote to amend

Candidate-submitted question. Teresa Pegram asked, “Why do you think there is low turnout of voters for election?” “About 10% of citizens turn out to exercise their right to vote. I’ve always said the 10% really care, 10% care but doesn’t take the extra step to vote, and the 80% don’t know, don’t care, or too busy. During campaign walking, I spoke with lots of citizens about this. They were astonished of the turnouts. Several told me they will make it 11%! Some told me it doesn’t matter whether they vote or not; this is untrue.

...continued on p. 14

“We all know that with the widening of Hwy 220 and the new I73 through town, access to commercial

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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“The PD, as proposed, does not assure any final outcome in terms of housing variety nor price points. Under our current OSRD zoning alternative, developers are free to build twin homes on small lots which offer a lower price alternative for buyers,

“Being a past surveyor and working with engineering companies, I have a lot of knowledge and understanding about this issue. I have talked with the staff at the US Geologic Survey office in Raleigh at great lengths about the 1997 Aquifer Study for Guilford County to understand this document. The geologic experts at USGS tell us nothing has changed since the 1997 study was performed and the study is still current and valid. As long as we protect the low overall average development density of 1 housing unit per 1.3 acres, along with limiting the amount of non-porous surfaces like parking lots and large commercial, we can rely on our private water wells.”

_________________________ Date

TOWN COUNCIL CANDIDATE

yet they choose not to. Why do you suppose that is, if that’s what the developers say their interest is? The proposed PD is about much more than providing housing alternatives. Higher density results in population increases; higher population densities are needed to draw more intense commercial retail to Summerfield, which is a much more lucrative proposition for developers than residential development. It should be noted that approximately 1,500 acres of land in Summerfield is currently owned by developers.”

_________________________________ Date

Teresa Pegram

“The Town of Summerfield was formed by the citizens to serve us, the citizens. When the government ceases serving the interest of the citizens at large, when instead it starts acting to serve narrow interests of the government itself, its leadership, and a small group of citizens, it is the government and not the citizens at large that has become dysfunctional. In all my years attending council meetings, I for one, am glad to see how many of our citizens are being vocal about our council’s decision. Just because we don’t always agree with each other, in the end we are neighbors. I will listen to the people’s voice and not just my own.”

_________________________________ Time

“I am uniquely qualified because of my work with government agencies for 20 years on national and international safety and security initiatives, while working with diverse groups of representatives

_________________________________ Date

Candidate-submitted question. Gail Dunham asked, “Why are you uniquely qualified to be Mayor?”

“Locally I served as Township Supervisor and School Board in the fastest growing school district in the U.S. I know how hard it is for schools and institutions to adjust to high density and large population growth. “I have been endorsed by Tax Accountability, the political arm of www. TaxpayersUnitedofAmerica.org as a true fiscal conservative and champion of the taxpayers by one of the largest taxpayer accountability organizations in the U.S. “We want Summerfield to be our home forever, and with continued modest growth and low density development we can Keep Summerfield Rural and a place for all of us to call home.”

amenities in nearby Greensboro, Madison, Kernersville, etc are faster and more convenient than ever to get to. Why do you think the proponents of more intense commercial development in Summerfield never bring this up? The citizens responded to the town’s Comprehensive Plan saying we want commercial development to be along the Hwy 220 corridor. Our current Comprehensive Plan states under the 12 common objectives “The town of Summerfield shall prefer commercial development that reflects the feel, ambience, and charm of a small rural community. Commercial developments should be located, designed, and scaled to complement rather than distract from residential development forms, and enhance existing commercial areas.”

_________________________________ Time

to solve small and serious problems. Because of my professional experiences I bring a unique outlook to solving problems.

_________________________________ Date

our Comp Plan, an advisory document, to include the overall low density standards that served the town for 20 years. Council should have listened to the people and taken a public vote – yes or no – that was the simple request. Council refused to listen to more people than ever voted for them! “Town is now building a mega-million municipal government complex at 150/ Summerfield Rd with pedestrian crosswalk, and not sharing the plan or cost with the taxpayers who will pay for it.

CANDIDATE Q&A ...continued from p. 13

“If you do not like the way things are currently going on in your town, let your vote be your voice. This is the time for

Mike Adams TOWN COUNCIL CANDIDATE

“Studies demonstrate our population mix is shifting toward increasing numbers of younger adults and the retiring citizens. Summerfield does not have enough housing choices to address this shift. It is our duty to accommodate a national shift. We have our young adult children who want to live where they have roots. Our retiring seniors want to stay here and enjoy this season of their life in Summerfield. “More important than my opinion is that the town’s Comprehensive Plan identifies one growth issue as: ‘Maintaining a high quality of residential development while allowing for a variety of single family housing types to meet the needs of empty nesters, senior citizens, and young families.’ “‘Appropriate Housing and Residential Development’ is an entire policy area and involves accommodating such housing. An advisory committee, appointed by the Council, has been selected from our citizens to carefully study the various policy areas.”

“As a Council member my job is to follow state law; for rezoning decisions the law requires it be tied to an adopted comprehensive plan (NCGS 160A-383).

“Our town had great insight developing and approving our Comprehen-

change, for your vote to make a difference. I encourage all citizens to please read meeting minutes on the town’s website to get informed about how the current council voted on the issues at hand. You can make a difference, every vote counts!”

sive Plan (CP). An entire policy area called ‘Appropriate, Limited Commercial Development’ helps explain the community’s desires and intent. ‘The Town of Summerfield shall prefer commercial development that reflects the feel, ambience, and charm of a small rural community. Commercial developments should be located, designed, and scaled to complement rather than detract from residential development forms, and enhance existing commercial areas.’ “The Council organized the citizendriven UDO Committee to look closely at all ordinances and make them congruent with the CP. Their work will guide leadership in reviewing development requests. ‘On hold’ action would simply delay a developer to resubmit his proposal once it is more in alignment with the ordinances.” “To me, neither group is dysfunctional. Rather, I believe we all care deeply for what we believe is the best for Summerfield.

“My commitment is to behave in a professional and responsible manner. These are the laws and ethics I promised to uphold which regulate elected officials, Summerfield’s specific adopted polices and plans, and my understanding that I represent all Summerfield citizens. “I have served for one term and I feel our current council functions well together. We do not agree on all issues and our differences in voting speaks for itself. Once we have discussed important issues for the Town and the voting is complete we speak with unity and avoid infighting and unnecessary personal opinion.

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

“An additional challenge for any governing body, be it local or national, is correcting misinformation. This Council will continue to speak the truth and inform the citizens with correct information.” “No question in my mind! We as a council value all that we hear from citizens either while shopping, walking trails, or the Public Comments period on the agenda of the Town Council meetings.

“Examples of listening to citizens and acting include family activities in our park, preserving our history, addressing concerns regarding our trails; the best and very recent one that comes to mind is the formation of the citizen-driven UDO Committee. “A text amendment, ‘planned development’ was brought before council during the review of the draft Development Ordinances at the end of last year. Council heard the citizen concerns and followed up with public hearings. This led to the council forming the UDO Committee and a citizen-driven review of the ordinances focusing on aligning the ordinances

Todd Rotruck TOWN COUNCIL CANDIDATE

“PD has been used as a means to promote a lot of false assumptions about housing in Summerfield. Summerfield already has housing options in various price ranges. As a licensed broker, I see this on a daily basis. $500,000+ housing only accounts for 13% of the housing stock in Summerfield. 4550% of the housing in Summerfield is $250,000 and under (all stats from

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with the Comprehensive Plan. “My goal is to listen to our Summerfield residents.” Candidate-submitted question. Mike Adams asked, “Why does Mike Adams want to serve Summerfield and its citizens during such challenging times?”

“We live in challenging times, and I consider it a great privilege to serve the citizens. I lived 10 years in Mexico and understand, even if you did want to give something back to your community, it is unlikely you would ever be able to do this. Serving to me means giving your time, respecting people, and wanting something better for the next generation to enjoy. “I can contribute to our town with my life experiences. I lived in small rural towns in multiple states, my career in agriculture either as a farmer or advising farmers on their crops provided me with a connection to the land and a desire to protect it. I have worked as an executive with small companies and some large companies providing me with a diverse set of skills, which I have employed as a councilman over my first term.” Guilford county tax records). So affordable housing is the dominant existing housing type. Young people are not moving to rural areas, another false assumption. National real estate studies project most millennials are moving into downtown areas in most metropolitan areas, for urban amenities.”

“The comprehensive plan and the citizens who wrote it said very limited commercial development and no big box stores. If the plan meets every aspect of the ordinance, then it is in compliance. Commercial has to be in balance with the population growth.

“Dysfunctional is a strong word but closer to what we, as citizens, have seen. There is little consistency with decision making and a

...continued on p. 16

, e v i t i Pos

n e v o Pr

p i h s r e d a Le

Dianne

Laughl

ssoms

Tim Se

dams Mike A

S R U O Y It’s time we stand together for all that is good about Summerfield! • • • • • • • • • • • •

Rural character Schools Community park/amphitheater Athletic park Summerfield Recreation Association Walking trails Founders’ Day Our emergency responders Music, Movies in the Park Touch a Truck Low taxes Limited government

F R E UMM Tim

M A E T I E LD Dianne

Mike

Sessoms

Laughlin

Adams

(336) 803-0322 Sessomsforsummerfield@gmail.com

(336) 643-6414 Grannymadi@triad.rr.com

(336) 707-5114 caa119@aol.com

for mayor

for town council

Please join us as we continue to move in a positive direction for Summerfield.

If you truly want to “Save our Summerfield” and “Keep it Rural,” vote for Tim Sessoms for mayor and Mike Adams and Dianne Laughlin for town council. Please visit our Facebook page facebook.com/SummerfieldTogether

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CANDIDATE Q&A ...continued from p. 14

lot of ‘flip flop’ on so many issues. The council voted on 10/10/16 unanimously of ‘Intent to amend the Summerfield Development ordinance to include PD zoning’. On 10/10/17, they read a statement in almost denial of this earlier decision because of election season and strong citizen opposition.”

“Besides what is already being done ... to ensure the water supply and natural resources are protected, we need to take serious the USGS study that says 1.38 acres per unit is a real fact. The soil composition in Summerfield has not changed in thousands of years and it dictates the recharge of water back into the ground. No soil or water study, no matter how many are done, is going to change this fact.

Dianne Laughlin TOWN COUNCIL CANDIDATE

“The PD concept isn’t the only part of the Summerfield Unified Development Ordinance. There are many zonings, restrictions, rules for compliance, hearings, etc. involving property in Summerfield town limits before a re-zoning request is considered. We currently have a UDO committee (made up of Summerfield residents) reviewing many questions and changes to our current ordinance. Changes to the original PD presentation are needed. That is one reason Council tabled that issue. I look forward to reading the changes the committee is recommending in the next several months when they make their presentation to the Zoning Board, who in turn will present changes and recommenda-

Water and sewer, at tax payer’s expense, is the only way to solve this issue. Which I do not support.”

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.

“The budget. Projections for the coming year contain a $1,000,000 increase. Too much money is being spent on unnecessary line items that cannot be sustained without a property tax increase, which I highly do not support. Our cash reserves keep dwindling each year because of this and it will not last forever. The town staff needs to operate on a more lean budget as in years past as Summerfield does not have the municipal demands that many other surrounding towns do. Low spending and limited governing used to be one of Summerfield’s strengths. I want to bring that back.”

Presently serving on the council are: Mayor Randy Braswell, Bill Jones (mayor pro tem), Frank Bruno, Tim Jones and Vicki WhiteLawrence.

Candidate-submitted question. Todd Rotruck asked, “What is the most important financial problem that Summerfield faces?”

tions to the Town Council.” “Commercial development should be in accordance with our Development Ordinance. That includes rules that apply to everyone!” “Town Councils, Boards, and Committees only seem dysfunctional to those who have a difference of opinion. We hear about dysfunctional families all the time, but they survive because they talk and reason together to find a common ground without accusations and name-calling. Listening and hearing what each other has to say is the best way for change to take place in any situation.” “We have to consider what will be good for the future of our towns, not just the immediate. We must continue to listen and learn from DNR and other resources that are available to municipalities. Studies and reviews should be updated on occasion. The UDO shows many ways for conservation of natural resources.”

Dianne Laughlin passed on the option to submit a question of her own.

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

MEET THE STOKESDALE CANDIDATES In last week’s Northwest Observer, all Stokesdale Town Council candidates were given an opportunity to introduce themselves and tell why they are running for office. To read or review their bios, check out the online version of our Oct. 20-26 issue at www.nwobserver.com. For this week’s Northwest Observer, we invited the candidates to answer a total of five questions (maximum 150 words per answer): All candidates were asked to answer Questions 1, 2 and 3. For Question 4, candidates chose between three questions we posed. And for Question 5, candidates were invited to come up with their own question and answer it. Below are the questions we asked of the Stokesdale Town Council candidates, followed by the answers we received, presented unedited… QUESTION 1: Stokesdale has no property tax and, as a result, does not receive a portion of sales and use tax distribution from Guilford County. According to Michael Halford, the Guilford County budget director, even a half-cent property tax for each $100 of property valuation would have

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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.

yielded about $31,000 in property tax and $7,900 in sales and use tax distribution for fiscal year 2016-17. Do you favor a property tax in any amount? Why or why not? QUESTION 2: Since Aug. 11, 2016, the Stokesdale Town Council has held more than 41 weekly Wednesday afternoon meetings (through Sept. 27). Some have said these weekly afternoon meetings are often not productive, many discussion items are continued from one meeting to another … and another, council members are focused too much on day-to-day administrative decisions versus on providing vision and leadership – and weekly afternoon meetings are not in the best interest of transparency because they are held when most people are at work. If elected, will you be in favor of continuing weekly afternoon council meetings? QUESTION 3: The water feasibility study for a regional water authority or system is not expected to be completed until February. Mayor Randy Braswell has said Stokesdale is interested in obtaining an emergency water source. Based on what you have read, gleaned from meetings or discovered through your own research, what would you suggest at this point

would be best for Stokesdale? QUESTION 4A: Only minutes of the regular monthly town council meetings, two ordinances related to the water system and a link to Stokesdale’s development ordinances through Municode are found on the Town’s website. Copies of the minutes for committee, Planning Board and weekly Wednesday council meetings are available for review at Town Hall. Should the Town spend the money to expand the website and include all ordinances and minutes from each committee, Planning Board and weekly Wednesday meeting to help citizens stay informed? Why or why not? QUESTION 4B: In February 2016 Kim Hemric was hired as town clerk; six months later, the town council voted 4-1 (Tim Jones opposed) to promote Hemric to the position of town administrator, “pending a full legal description.” It’s now

Frank Bruno MAYORAL CANDIDATE

“At the present time, Stokesdale does not need a property tax. We have been able to cover our expenses and run a surplus the past couple of years, so no additional funds are needed. With fiscal responsibility and conservative spending we can keep this trend going for the future.”

“From the beginning I have been against having weekly business meetings, especially at 4 p.m., which is not convenient for most citizens to attend. Most of the meetings have been attended by no citizens, and a majority of council is not usually present. This does not present an open and productive atmosphere. “Items being discussed during these meetings can be handled by our staff if given the opportunity. Although all of our staff has a general job description, they do not have specific task lists to

October 2017, over 13 months later, and Hemric still has no full legal job description, the council is still holding weekly afternoon meetings and making many day-to-day administrative decisions, yet Hemric’s salary has increased to fall more in line with that of a town administrator. How do you feel about this? QUESTION 4C: (FOR MAYORAL CANDIDATES ONLY) What insight have you acquired from your service on the town council, as mayor or a member of committees or the Planning Board, and how would that translate into your vision for the Town? QUESTION 4D: (FOR COUNCIL CANDIDATES ONLY) What insight have you acquired from previous attempts at a town council seat, attending meetings, or as a member of committees or the Planning Board, and how would that translate into your vision for the Town? follow. Doing this would allow them to handle most of our day-to-day operations and allow the council members to work on improving our town. This does not mean that additional meetings are not needed, but if they are the public should be given ample notice and they should be at a time, like 7 p.m., when most citizens can attend.”

ing our water system so we don’t fall into the problems we had six years ago when I was first elected to the council.”

“I have served on the planning board, various town committees, as Mayor Pro Tem, and as a council member for the past six years. I have also owned businesses in Stokesdale and helped form the Stokesdale Business Association and Four Corners Chamber of Commerce. All of these experiences have helped me understand what is important to our town and our citizens. “I have gotten to know many of the people who live in Stokesdale and understand that we are a small town that needs to keep our small town identity while bringing in new businesses and jobs to our community. We have a unique downtown area that needs to be taken care of and a partnership with our citizens can make this happen. We also need to make Stokesdale a place where families want to raise their children and when those children grow up they want to remain here.”

...continued on p. 18

CHILLY IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER.

“There has been confusion regarding the purpose of this water study. The study does not mean that Stokesdale is joining a water authority. The purpose of the study is to give the citizens of Stokesdale information about what is best for our water system and help determine how we might move forward in the future with alternative sources of water, water expansion, water quality, etc. “Some of the items the study will look at are potential growth areas, reviewing our existing water system and service areas, and potential inter-connection locations. Having an alternative source of water may also allow us to lower water rates. As we grow as a town, it is important that we have the information we need to make informed decisions regard-

Candidate-submitted question. Frank Bruno asked, “Why do you want to be mayor of Stokesdale?” “I have lived in Stokesdale since 1991. Like many residents of this town, I choose to live here because of the small-town atmosphere, the quality of living, and the wonderful people. My vision is to help keep these qualities and enhance them where I can. I have no hidden agenda. “I believe that the people of this town need to have a say in how it is run and their elected officials need to listen. “We need to protect the property rights of our citizens. As we have seen over the past 10 years, our town is growing at a fast pace. While growth is good, we need controlled growth so we don’t overwhelm our resources. “We also need to have a long-term vision for our town that enhances the beauty of our downtown area and looks at providing more activities for our families and their children.”

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“I do not favor a property tax. Because of the financial stewardship of our past Councils and grants for our water system and park, we have successfully provided necessary services for our citizens without any tax. Taxes never go away so why have a tax just to increase our reserves.”

“All previous Councils were able to effectively and efficiently operate with one monthly meeting and I would revert back to that schedule.”

“Stokesdale has a viable water system and should focus on its maintenance and growth. I have major reservations about the creation of a Regional Water Authority because of its ability to impose tax, force mandatory connection, rights of eminent domain and its members are appointed and not elected.” “I have served as Mayor and Mayor Pro Tern so I know first hand the challenges and responsibilities

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Stokesdale

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CANDIDATE Q&A

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

“I am not in favor of a Property Tax: Stokesdale operates on a budget of approximately $400,000. We have more than the staterequired reserve in the bank, we have numerous amenities including

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

that our Mayor will face. Having served on numerous Long-Range Planning Committees I have an excellent background on zoning issues and land use planning. Most importantly, I know the most important roles of being a Mayor are to fairly and impartially represent all our citizens. The Mayor has to be a strong advocate for our town and its citizens and work diligently to maintain our rural heritage, our sense of community and our way of life. I treasure our quality of life and will work tirelessly to preserve what we all have grown to love about Stokesdale. My vision is simply to enhance what we have now and build on that. Life is good here and our people are the salt of the earth.”

Candidate-submitted question. John Flynt asked, “Why has the present Council increased the number of employees and payroll cost so significantly over the past few years?” For approximately 20 years Carolyn Joyner was the town’s only employee serving as Town Clerk/Finance Officer. She was an outstanding public servant and the real face of our town. She worked tirelessly and professionally and was able to perform the work that now takes 4 or 5 employees at a fraction of our current payroll cost. I think we need to have a defined job description for each position, an analysis of our manpower needs and specific periodic reviews on our employees to insure we have adequate staff and be cost efficient in our payroll.” a water system that are furnished to the residents of Stokesdale without a town tax. Out of 11 municipalities in Guilford County, Stokesdale is the only one without a tax.”

“No, I would make a motion that we change to one extra meeting per month as needed on either a Tuesday or Thursday evening at 7 p.m., two weeks apart from the monthly meeting for any business that needed to be handled.

“I recommend starting discussions and negotiations with Rockingham County for the use of an existing water

“Stokesdale needs strong leadership, as this is one of the most pivotal elec-

tions in years and will put Stokesdale ahead over the foreseeable future. We have an opportunity to really sit down and assess what the Town’s future needs are and set precedents with this next new Council. We must look at growth that is well planned and systematic as well as maintain our existing facilities and services with alternative spending sources that do not mandate additional tax burdens on the residents. We need to keep current on the needs of the town and residents along with welcoming newcomers that have chosen Stokesdale as their new home. We must stay competitive while continuing the course of fiscal responsibility and growth. “Quality Businesses, Quality Services, Quality Management and Quality Lifestyle all add up to a Very Desirable Place to Live named Stokesdale, NC!”

Jaycee Spruill

what the options will be for the town.”

“I Envision Stokesdale continuing to be desirable Town to live in where families are comfortable with low crime rates, a propitiatory town water system that grows with the community, a town with no additional property or water tax, preservation of rural values, a great elementary school as well as an excellent fire department along with shopping, eating, health care and service locations. I see common sense growth to accommodate Stokesdale’s needs.”

Candidate-submitted question. Thearon Hooks, Jr. asked, “What Do We Need For Future Prosperity?”

TOWN COUNCIL CANDIDATE

“Currently, Stokesdale is in a financial position where a tax is not needed.” “Due to the fact the town has hired a full time town clerk/administrator, there may be functions of the Wednesday meetings that can be handled by that role on a day-to-day basis. That would allow more time for long-term planning, vision with direction, and focused leadership on the part of the Town Council. If there is a need for additional or special meetings, they could be held in the evenings so that the community would be more available to attend.” “Without the results of the feasibility study, there is really no way to know what is truly best for Stokesdale at this time. Having an additional water source at a lower rate would be ideal, but without the results we don’t know

“I have lived here for over 40 years, seen the town incorporated, served on the Planning Board and seen many changes over that time. My hope is to be part of a positive direction for Stokesdale so that it may prosper over the next 40 years and beyond. I believe in supporting our youth now, in turn encouraging them to return and raise their own families here. I support local businesses, and welcome the idea of an active downtown area.”

Candidate-submitted question. Jaycee Spruill asked, “Why did you decide to run for Stokesdale Town Council?” “I want to be a voice for Stokesdale – all of Stokesdale, not just parts of it. I want to be a voice for everyone from our children to our seniors. A voice for those who were born and raised with Stokesdale being their home, and for those who have moved here and chosen Stokesdale as their home. I want to be a part of helping Stokesdale succeed well into the future as a small, rural town with great potential.”

ELECT

line less than 2 miles north from the town limit that is already in place! Water Authority = Tax, Bonds, Eminent Domain!”

ANN SCHNEIDER OAK RIDGE TOWN COUNCIL

Ann is an informed and inspired leader who will: ■ Preserve our town’s unique character ■ Work closely with residents and businesses ■ Set a solid course for Oak Ridge’s future ■ Support low taxes

...with the experience Oak Ridge needs: ■ Historic Preservation Commission: Chair/member (2010–present) > Organized first-ever Explore Historic Oak Ridge event in 2017 > Developed innovative Historic Heritage Grant program in 2015 ■ Oak Ridge Land Use Plan Committee spokesperson (2015–2016) ■ Member: Merchants of Oak Ridge Board; Oak Ridge Lions Club;

Preservation Oak Ridge ■ Principal, Ann Schneider Consulting (2001–present) ■ 25 years of strategic planning and leadership for nonprofits ■ 10 years on PTA/PTSO boards; twice named Volunteer of the Year

Learn more about my vision for Oak Ridge: Visit facebook.com/ annschneider.nc or email annschneider.nc@gmail.com

Vote November 7! Paid for by Committee to Elect Ann Schneider

...more Candidate Coverage on p. 20

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

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

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.

developing the trail through the town. What do you think are the benefits of the trail passing through the town and what, if any, do you see as negatives?

Patti Paslaru

Fire services, the question that must be answered is do we need to provide a water system for the entire town or just the business district? Creating an authority takes control over rates and other things totally out of the Town’s purview.

“There are still many options to consider, and I am not yet convinced that creating a water authority is the best, most costeffective, long-term option. Although we do need a water solution for the

“Some of my concerns are that we are the smallest in both population and geography of current participants, and I would like to see the cost sharing adjusted accordingly, not just split equally between the participants of an authority. I want to ensure that no home-

October 28

In last week’s Northwest Observer, all Oak Ridge Town Council candidates were given an opportunity to introduce themselves and tell why they are running for office. To read or review their bios, check out the online version of our Oct. 20-26 issue at www.nwobserver.com. For this week’s issue, we invited the candidates to answer a total of five questions (maximum 150 words per answer): All candidates were asked to answer Questions 1, 2 and 3. For Question 4, candidates chose between three questions we posed. And for Question 5, candidates were invited to come up with their own question and answer it. Below are the questions we asked of the Oak Ridge Town Council candidates, followed by the answers we received, presented unedited…… QUESTION 1: How do you feel about the Town participating in a water feasibility study (along with Summerfield, Stokesdale and Guilford County), and what value do you think it will be to Oak Ridge?

That decision drew fire from some on the P&Z Board, and even one council member, who argued that the Board carefully deliberates over its decisions and the council should follow its recommendations. Do you agree that the council should always follow the recommendations of the P&Z Board. If so, why? If not, what are some of the considerations that would make you override the Board’s recommendation?

QUESTION 2: Several months ago the Town Council overrode a recommendation of the Town’s Planning and Zoning Board.

QUESTION 4B: What do you think are some of the current council’s greatest strengths, and what are some of its

greatest weaknesses? QUESTION 4C: The present town council has embraced the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and funds are being allocated for

QUESTION 3: Protecting the rural character of the town and protecting the rights of property owners to sell and develop their property often seem to be in conflict with each other. Some wish the town would limit future growth by putting a hold on further residential and commercial development. Is this feasible? Is it fair to property owners? Why or why not? QUESTION 4A: Earlier this year the council approved a 5-year capital improvement plan. How do you feel about the particular items the town will be spending funds on over the next 5 years, and how much it has budgeted to spend on these items?

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owners will be forced to hook on to a municipal system but have the choice.”

“I definitely feel the Council should follow the P&Z’s recommendations, especially when the vote is unanimous. There have been instances when the council has gone against the Board, resulting in costly consequences. I believe that unless new information comes to light, after the P&Z has voted, the council should be in support of the Board members decision. If there is new information, I think the council should send it back to P&Z. I understand we want to not unnecessarily delay projects, but we should ensure due diligence. For example, the Council votes to change the ordinances to lengthen the cul-desacs to 1,200 ft. (Fire department had to purchase longer hoses) and the vote to allow buildings to be built closer together, were against the P&Z recommendations and were done to benefit the developer, not the town character or its residents’ safety.”

“I do not think that protecting the rights of property owners and protecting the rural character conflict with each other. I believe what is in conflict is the desires of the developers to maximize profits and current regulations.

Jim Kinneman

“To remain a vibrant town, we need reliable sources of water. We also need to ensure our fire department has access to an adequate supply of water. Currently we have about the same supply as in the 1960s. What can/ should we do for our neighbors who have contaminated or poorly producing wells? In event of an extended power outage, what do we do to ensure everyone has access to water?

Every landowner has the right to sell or develop their property, providing it meets the current guidelines for development. When we have a request to change a property to RS40 zoning, there is usually little debate. What I am disappointed in, is that the Council seems to want to amend the rules to fit each project, so that it will be financially attractive to developers, not land owners. Purchase agreements are usually in place before they come to the Town with plans. I think we can have a win-win by continuing to manage growth, following our land use plan and preserve all property owners’ right to sell and develop their property.” “The Mountains- to-Sea trail seems to have the support of many residents and will bring business to our town, which is a plus. My concerns are that we do not use eminent domain at any time to complete the trail and the safety aspect of this trail. During the last Mountains-to Sea cycle event, there was a cyclist that was injured. This was a planned event with Police presence and we still had an injury. Also the upkeep costs of this trail are an unknown at this time and I believe are naively underestimated.”

“Just as when an employee makes a recommendation to their boss, the employee knows that their boss isn’t always going to agree with them. What makes it tough for our board and committee members is this all happens in public while the boss/employee usually happens one-on-one in private.”

“I give great weight to recommendations from the P&Z and all our committees and boards, but I also consider my responsibilities as a member of Town Council. Looking back, we rarely overrode a recommendation. When we did, we may have gotten additional information since the board/committee reviewed the matter and sometimes we see things differently. It’s our job to take

we are limited to about 1 house per acre regardless of the spacing between them – 10 acres, about 10 houses, usually ending up with less. Until recently that meant one house on an acre. Not everyone who wants to live in Oak Ridge wants a 3,500-square-foot house or to take care of an acre.

“Maintaining our rural character doesn’t mean growth must be halted. It is also important to protect property rights. Rural doesn’t automatically mean large lots and large houses.

“Houses can go on smaller lots under tightly controlled conditions with overall density remaining about 1 per acre. Smaller lots leave more contiguous open space. Less lawn, less fertilizer runoff into waterways or wells. The cost of land and getting it ready keeps the cost of housing well above the average regardless of lot size. A range of choices

“Due to septic and other limitations,

...continued on p. 22

Re-elect Mike Stone The Conservative choice

Patti Paslaru passed on the option to submit a question of her own.

“To make these decisions we need information, information the study will provide. The study may make recommendations but the town(s) are under no obligation to accept them. Only after studying the issues from many sides and considering input from our town residents should we decide on which direction to take.”

all inputs and make the best judgment on the right decision. Sometimes that decision is counter to a recommendation we have received.

OAK RIDGE TOWN COUNCIL • I will continue to help manage the growth of the town to benefit our current residents and maintain our small-town, historic, rural character.

• As a strong supporter of the first tax decrease in the town’s history, I will continue to work to reduce taxes even further while still providing services that citizens desire such as sidewalks and improvements to our Town Park.

• My voting record reflects the principles of low taxes, fiscal conservatism, and a small, efficient government.

• I will continue to be the Council member who listens to our citizens’ concerns, supports our town’s committees and volunteers, and acts on what’s important to them.

Thank you for your vote on November 7!

Paid for by Mike Stone • mjstone@pactiv.com

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

CANDIDATE Q&A ...continued from p. 21 makes Oak Ridge stronger.”

“I’m an advocate for sidewalks and have seen the positive effect they’ve had on our town. Studies show that walkable towns are healthier towns and safer towns (people walking about deters crime). And people want to live in towns that are walkable. “Adding trails goes hand in hand with sidewalks. Some of the most fun I had as a kid was walking through the woods, exploring, imagining what was around the next bend, watching animals in their natural habitat. As an adult, I haven’t lost that desire to walk for several miles without looping back. It would be great if we could do that in Oak Ridge. “With just a few key connections here and there, we could safely walk to the park or the Cascades along trails and sidewalks. Sidewalks and trails enhance our town, adding to the value of liv-

ing here in the greatest town in North Carolina.”

Candidate-submitted question. Jim Kinneman asked, “How do you see Oak Ridge in 20 or 30 years?” “In 20 or 30 years during my daily walk Oak Ridge will look much like it does today. It will still be the safe rural looking town it is today. And in some ways, it may be more rural with added trails and preserved open spaces. While we will have grown, development will be tucked away and surrounded by trees and fields. Neighborhoods will be connected with trails and sidewalks allowing residents to safely walk to the main park and several pocket parks that have been added. Traffic will be less of an issue as driverless vehicles supplement standard cars. With access to trails and sidewalks I can walk to the Commons, eat dinner and pick up a few groceries. Along the way I’ll meet new and old friends. If I don’t feel like walking home I can call for a ride home. Oak Ridge will still be the greatest town in North Carolina.”

Serving the northwest community

Ann Schneider

“Developing future water options is critical, especially for (1) our fire department, serving a growing population with decreasing access to water; (2) residents whose wells run dry or become contaminated; and (3) residents who want a choice of water providers. “The results of the water study (funded entirely by state grant funds, at no cost to residents) will provide information on our water needs, possible water sources, and water authority options. If we find that a water authority is feasible, we will all need to know exactly how it would work – and Town Council will need to hold public hearings to hear what residents think. “In addition to prioritizing new water sources for firefighting, any new system would have to be self-supporting (i.e., separate from the Town budget). It would also have to be optional for current residents and phased in gradually, probably beginning with new homes.”

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“Having multiple layers of review is helpful because it means more scrutiny, more questions and more opportunities for citizen input. Our P&Z Board’s recommendations are always valuable and provide the basis for the vast majority of Town Council’s zoning decisions. “Since P&Z’s recommendations often generate public interest (especially when reported in this newspaper), the second review by Town Council often encourages more citizen involvement, which can affect Council’s decision. The different perspectives of the two bodies can also affect their conclusions. “Our volunteer P&Z Board focuses on adherence to Town ordinances, while Town Council has broader responsibilities, including determining whether the request is ‘in the public interest.’ In a small town like ours, it’s important

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

that Town Council members – who are elected by and accountable to residents – have the final say on issues that shape our town’s future.”

“Managing our town’s growth in ways that protect property rights and preserve what we all love about Oak Ridge – its small town feel and rural/historic character – is one of the key planks of my candidacy. To achieve this vision, I will: • Be a strong voice for enforcing the highest standards of our Land Use Plan, which prioritizes the preservation of historic and agricultural resources, trees, and open spaces when considering new construction. • Explore conservation easement agreements to preserve open land and historic sites like ORMA, Old Mill, etc. • Continue the Historic Heritage Grant program that has in two years leveraged over $46,000 in exterior improvements to local historic sites. • Look for new ways to highlight our town’s reputation as a destination for visitors within the Triad and the state. • Develop incentives to help small farms survive, as called for in our Land Use Plan.”

“I applaud Town Council’s 5-year capital plan, which proposes improvements to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, sidewalks, Town Park, and the 68/150 intersection. But more work needs to be done before we move forward on these projects. We need a broader strategic plan for our town’s future. For example, we need to identify potential liabilities that may lie ahead, such as having to provide our own law enforcement or dealing with additional water contamination problems. “We need to craft specific, pro-active strategies for preserving our town’s rural and historic character, as described in my answer to Question #3. “We need to identify the costs involved in addressing these issues, and plan for future tax decreases, if feasible. “Once we complete this kind of planning, we’ll have a better idea of how

much money to keep in our reserve fund, and how much is actually available for capital projects.”

Candidate-submitted question: Ann Schneider asked, “What will you bring to Town Council?” “I will bring commitment, energy, leadership, integrity, and a commitment to excellence to my work on Town Council. I will be open, active, and comprehensive in my efforts. “Are there new ideas to consider? I have a lot of them…but I will also look for ideas from community partners, residents and experts, and will work with them to

Mike Stone

“I voted to participate in the study and I welcome a fair assessment of how a water distribution system would work in a rural, low-density community like Oak Ridge. Prior to our Council meeting discussions, I researched development, construction and operation costs of small municipal water systems. I’m particularly interested in specific details about exactly how much ground water we have in Oak Ridge, as well as the projected costs of each individual component of any proposed system and the tax implications to each property owner in our town. I have serious concerns about an independent water authority that could enact acreage and tap fees as way to build a water system and the impact that those fees and taxes would have on Oak Ridge families. Once we have these answers, it will be much easier to have constructive, honest, and informed conversation about this subject.”

“First, I am that Town Council member that supported the recommendations of the P&Z Board members. Before this vote (and every vote

implement the best ideas. “I will encourage residents to speak up and get involved. “Do we need a new ordinance? “I will remind Council that we must remain committed to small government and best practices. That means doing our homework and checking with our staff, other experts and other communities to find out what actually works. “Do we have a disagreement? I will work with Council members, staff and residents to better understand the issues and build consensus – not just during our monthly meetings, but throughout the year.” I’ve made) I did my homework and studied the information presented by P&Z. I served on P&Z and I know the time, effort and research they put into each decision. While every situation is unique, it’s certainly in the Town Council’s best interest to use the P&Z Board’s decisions, and their recommendations should carry significant weight in our decision-making process. P&Z members’ deliberations always have the best interest of the town in mind. These are talented volunteers with a diverse background, and they are supported by an exceptional town staff. Why wouldn’t we lean on their expertise? And for the record, it’s not just P&Z. The Town Council should support and respect the decisions and positions of all of our various volunteer boards and committees.” “For me, these two positions don’t conflict with one another. I have been a strong advocate of both sides of this same coin. Rural character can be maintained by supporting the P&Z Board as they apply the ordinances and help to manage development and growth. Lower density zoning helps achieve this goal. I’ve consistently supported individual rights to develop their property, but that doesn’t mean the right to develop it to any use or density that the owner wants. In general, any request to develop land to RS-40 will be approved. Higher density developments require the owners

Please vote for

Oak Ridge Town Council Respecting the past, planning for the future. Oak Ridge is at a crossroads; decisions made today will either haunt us or benefit us in the years ahead. We can make the easy popular choices today or the ones that will stand the test of time. • Jim makes choices that benefit the entire town for the long run. • Jim doesn’t just show up for the vote and take credit, he takes the lead to get things done. • Jim took the lead on adding sidewalks, controlling cell towers, preventing big box stores, and Tree City designation. • Jim supports fiscal responsibility, lower taxes, safety, land use plan, open space preservation, and the Mountains-to-Sea trail. • Jim is a software consultant who has worked for large and small companies and run his own business.

• Jim was chairman of the Planning and Zoning Board, Board of Adjustment and Ordinance Review Committee. • Jim was an alternate on the Historic Preservation Commission. • Jim is an Air Force veteran. • Jim is a member of the Oak Ridge Lions Club. • Jim is a volunteer and bubble machine operator at Music in the Park. • Jim is a regular blood donor (donate if you are able). • Jim has been married to Carol for 30 years. • Jim works hard to keep Oak Ridge a great place to live for all.

Please remember to vote for Jim Kinneman on November 7. Keep Jim working for you. Authorized and paid for by Committee to Elect Jim Kinneman

jkinneman@triad.rr.com

...continued on p. 26

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

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to demonstrate how the rezoning and development would be beneficial to the community and harmonious with the surrounding area. It’s important that the Town Council use our ordinances and a good amount of common sense to support maintaining rural character and open space as we facilitate slow and wellplanned growth.”

“I like our 5-year plan. The town took the wise step of using an outside party to facilitate the discussion about our capital improvement plans. We used surveys from residents to determine what folks see as priorities and made sure to incorporate them into the plan. This gave us an opportunity to have an open discussion about what’s important, why, and how to execute the plans we developed. Based on the discussions,

we have the available funds to complete each project without incurring debt or raising taxes… and that’s great! Our biggest challenge is how to execute all of these projects and figure out how to do them within a reasonably short period of time.”

Candidate-submitted question. Mike Stone asked, “What is your view of the current tax rate and the possibility of future tax cuts?” “I was an early and strong supporter of tax cuts in the town. While I’m proud of my vote that resulted in the first tax cut in the history of the town, the tax cut was overly conservative and we are still growing our fund balances. I think it is important to point out that property revaluations and additional residents due to housing construction actually helped grow our revenue even with the tax decrease. With our extremely healthy fund balance, I will be pushing for a meaningful and significant tax cut during the next budget cycle.”

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

TOWN COUNCIL ...continued from p. 10

Nov. 12, to honor local veterans. Trails/Open Space. Jane Doggett said town planner Sean Taylor’s father, who was involved with starting the Virginia Creeper Trail, spoke at the previous month’s meeting about the process of getting the trail started and maintaining it. UDO Review. O’Day said he felt the UDO Review Committee’s last meeting was very productive. On behalf of the entire council, O’Day then read a statement which said much had been said, written and posted about the council’s position concerning development in Summerfield and it did not accurately reflect the council’s intentions or wishes regarding development. “This elected body opposes the following types of development in Summerfield: town-wide high-density development; inappropriate, large-scale commercial development; apartment complexes and/or high rises; strip malls; other forms of development not supportive of the town’s rural character. “There is absolutely no truth to any assertion this council is working with developers to push through a PD ordinance,” O’Day said. “Again, we have appointed the UDO Review Committee to advise the Zoning Board on the specifications for all development districts in the draft UDO to ensure they conform to the comprehensive plan.” Fire Department. Captain Jenna Daniels of Summerfield Fire District reported the district responded to 12 fire-related calls, 63 EMS calls and 17 other calls in September, installed 35 cars seats and three smoke detectors and reached 350 children and 150 adults through public education and community outreach. Fire Prevention Week’s slogan is “Every second counts; plan two ways out.” Sheriff’s Office. On behalf of the District 1 office, Master Corporal Goodnight reported the office received 631 calls for service in September, which was down about 40 calls from September 2016. The seven Part 1 crimes consisted of two shoplifting incidents at the Dollar General and five B&Es.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

The sheriff’s office has been focusing more on patrolling area community parks, following some B&Es during public events, Goodnight said. Most of the vehicle breakins involved unlocked cars and people leaving valuables in sight. “Hide your valuables, lock your cars and lock your storage buildings,” Goodnight advised. “Most of what we see is not folks breaking in, they’re just going into what they can easily get into.” Goodnight encouraged citizens to call 911 if they think something is suspicious. On behalf of Emergency Management, deputy town clerk Mary Gant reported EMS had 64 calls in the Summerfield fire district last month and over 1,000 new residents have signed up for GEANI (Guilford Emergency Alert, Notification, and Information System).

PUBLIC HEARINGS

Road name change. Council voted to continue a public hearing for renaming portions of Brookbank Road, which was significantly realigned as part of the I-73 construction project, to the Nov. 14 meeting. Rezoning Case RZ-03-17. A public hearing was held for a rezoning request from Dr. Justin Roberts of Oak Ridge for two adjoining parcels, one at the corner of Auburn Road and Summerfield Road and the other fronting U.S. 220, from RS-30 (Residential) to CU-LB (Conditional Use Limited Business District). Town Attorney Bill Hill was not physically present, but connected by cell phone. Mike Sommers of Stark Development, the company working with the applicant, said his company specializes in dental and medical complexes.

Opponents

A resident of N.C. 150 said there had been several accidents at the N.C. 150 and U.S. 220 intersection recently and asked if a recent traffic study had been completed. He also asked if a “proper water study” had been done for the area. Planning Director Carrie Spencer said she wondered if the accidents were a result of all the construction going on in this area. “The widening of the highway will make that intersection safer,” she said.

 3  2 to approve the rezoning

request, with Reece Walker recused be-

cause he owns property across the street from one of the parcels and Mayor Mark Brown casting the deciding vote. UDO Review Committee Appointment. Due to the resignation of Andrea Cockcroft, the designated subcommittee (consisting of planning director, Whitaker and council members Adams and O’Day) recommended appointing Priscilla Olinick to the committee.

 5  0 to appoint Priscilla Olinick to the UDO Review Committee.

TOWN MANAGER BUSINESS Whitaker referenced a media release available on the sign-in table which gave a progress report on the UDO Review Committee and the water study, and reaffirmed how the Town continues to remain focused on the Comprehensive Plan.

Parking lot. The northern parking lot at Summerfield Athletic Park is “wide open,” Whitaker reported, and will add muchneeded parking. Trail. A trail is being cut from the new gravel parking lot on the Vandergrift property the Town now owns next to Summerfield Community Park; it will be accessed off Medearis Street (off Summerfield Road) and will serve as a future trailhead for the A&Y Greenway. Greenway. Stewart, the engineer firm hired to design the A&Y Greenway extension through Summerfield, will give an update on the trail design in the near future.

Unsealing of minutes. Following the town attorney’s annual review, minutes from several closed sessions were released. In response. Councilman Walker received permission from Mayor Brown to respond to several statements made earlier in the meeting during Public Comments. First, he asked Whitaker about comments Whitaker and Finance Officer Dee Hall posted on Summerfield News’ Facebook page, which Dana Luther (former Summerfield finance officer) had said were inappropriate. “I feel that (what is purported to be a community Facebook page) is a very valid forum for communication with citizens,” Whitaker said. “As far as what was posted on Summerfield News, I didn’t see anything inappropriate.” “I don’t think we can be much more transparent than being on Facebook, so it’s hard to get beat up for not being transparent and then for posting comments on Facebook for the whole world to see,” Walker said. To Dana Luther, Walker then said, “You did approach me at a fire call one day and we had a conversation about Scott (Whitaker). And I think you have some ill will toward him. I hate that you have stayed nonpolitical until it’s time for an election…” As for a group spending $13,000 to protect themselves against the PD, Walker said that was their right and their money to spend. “But when we get beat up for getting a public information request out, we just

want to make sure we get it right,” he said. Walker then said Adams and Laughlin had not provided more copies of emails in response to a specific public records request because most of the emails to and between council members and others on that topic were identical and there was no point in duplicating them. Regarding the meeting with the Timmons Group about the water feasibility study, it was informational only, Walker said, noting the council feels it is in tune with what the community wants, based on citizen input, and it will be guided in this matter by the Comprehensive Plan’s policy and action areas. Regarding the Historical Committee recently changing a meeting time by 30 minutes without proper notice, Walker confirmed that won’t happen again. Regarding a citizen’s reference to an example of a planned development that Town Planning Director Carrie Spencer had used, Walker asked Spencer why she used it and she said because it showed a variety of uses, just as another citizen’s example from Chapel Hill did. “All of these examples are just examples,” Spencer said. If the Town were to install a water system in the future, it must be selfsupporting, Walker then confirmed with Finance Officer Dee Hall. “If Summerfield ever had water and sewer, it would only be supported by the people who use the water and sewer and

who pay for it,” Hall said. “It has to be kept in a completely separate fund. The water system has to be fully self-supporting.” As for Don Wendelken being owed an apology, “I really don’t think so,” Walker said. “Don, you were a little bit of an agitator… the council deliberated (about voting to remove Wendelken from the Public Safety Committee) and it was an extremely hard decision.” And finally, as for the message he had left on Crawford’s voicemail several years earlier, Walker said he was in high school and a volunteer on Summerfield Youth Council at the time he left the message. Back then, he and other youth were very active volunteers in the community, but at every turn there were a few people in the community who worked extremely hard against all that they did, he said. “We were kids in high school,” he said. “Dwayne, I’m sorry I left you that voicemail. That was 10 years ago. I made a mistake as a 17-year-old child. I’m 26 now and a different man. “Everybody changes … if anybody knows about forgiveness, it ought to be you, Mr. Crawford,” he said, then referenced closed session minutes from years ago when Crawford served on the council. At that, Mayor Brown moved the council go into closed session.

CLOSED SESSION

Council went into closed session at 8:45 p.m. to discuss a property issue, then reconvened at 9:21 p.m. and adjourned.

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

BUSINESS notes

Bella Luna Ribbon Cutting Merchants of Oak Ridge members joined one of the association’s newest members, Bella Luna Ristorante & Bar, for a ribbon cutting on Oct. 10. Shown in photo, owner Carol Shina (center) is surrounded by staff members, Oak Ridge Mayor Pro Tem George McClellan (far left) and Mayor Spencer Sullivan (far right). Bella Luna opened in Oak Ridge Commons shopping center July 13. Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

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Oak Ridge runner places ninth in 5K Rosa Alonso-McKenzie, 52, of Oak Ridge placed ninth out of 2,100 runners and first in the 50-54 age group in the 25th annual Women’s Only 5K Oct. 14, with a time of 22.39. The Women’s Only 5K supports the Cone Health Mammography Scholarship Fund and the Cone Health Alight Program. Each year, the fund provides about 600 women with screening mammograms that they would otherwise be unable to afford, and many more receive emotional, educational and financial support during their treatment.

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Photo courtesy of Dan McKenzie

Welcome to

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

Touch-A-Truck

Photos by Patti Stokes/NWO

(Above) Shane Beal of EuroHaus gives Bryson Gooch of Summerfield a demonstration of how to use a mechanic’s drill, while Trey Price (left) of Madison enjoys being inside Republic Services’ waste collections truck at the Town of Summerfield’s annual Touch-A-Truck event on Oct. 21.

With perfect temperatures and blue skies, a record number of attendees came out to enjoy the Touch-A-Truck event at Summerfield Athletic Park on Oct. 21, when kids got to climb onto, into, and all around tractors, trucks, earth movers and more. As in the past, Vulcan Materials brought lots of big trucks and equipment for kids to explore. The company also provided a large crew to cook and serve chips and 500 hot dogs with all the fix-

ings, which were free to attendees. “Touch-A-Truck is one of our favorite community events. Happy kids, low cost, vendors with pride in what they do, and Vulcan as an enthused partner make a great combo,” said Summerfield Town Manager Scott Whitaker. Look for more photos from this event in next week’s issue and at Facebook.com/NorthwestObserver.

...more Youth Sync on p. 36

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

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www.mbsmiles.com t “Stargazer” Artist: Stephanie Mayer, senior Course: AP Studio Art 2D Design Teacher: Amber Bryant Medium: Watercolor “This work is a triptych where in each part I wanted to represent a different terrain while keeping the primary figure constant,” Mayer said. “I tried to express a feeling of longing and hope.”

t “The Horse at the Door” Photographer: Turner Johnson, sophomore Course: Photographic Design Teacher: Beth Herrick Medium: Photography “I was searching for a photo to take for my project in Photography,” Johnson said. “I spent over an hour and was just messing with my camera a bit. Then, I saw that my horse was at the foot of the door, so I got on the ground and took the shot.” u “Warm Harvest” Artist: Madeline Bailey, sophomore Course: Visual Art Intermediate (Art II) Teacher: Amber Bryant Medium: Chalk pastels “This work demonstrates the warm and crisp aspects of Fall,” Bailey said. “I wanted to capture the spice of my favorite season.”

q “Candy Composition” Artist: Nakyung Oh, freshman Course: Visual Art Beginning (Art I) Teacher: Amber Bryant Medium: Colored Pencil “I drew a still life of five different pieces of candy by using the rule of thirds,” Oh said. “I added value and form to the colored pencils to make it look as realistic as possible.”

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

Bye week arrives for Northwest after rough stretch By MARC PRUITT After enduring a six-game losing streak and countless key injuries, Northwest Guilford will get somewhat of a respite this week with no game on the schedule. Last week’s 56-14 loss at Ragsdale dropped the Vikings to 3-7 (0-3 Metro 4A) and left the team still searching for its first win since a 14-0 shutout of Northern Guilford on Sept. 8.

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“We’ve been making a lot of mistakes lately and dealing with a lot of key injuries, and it’s just made it tough for everyone when you have people playing positions they aren’t really used to,” coach Kevin Wallace said. “We

had 10 starters out this week and we even tried to move to a 3-4 defense (instead of their traditional 4-3) against Ragsdale because of our available personnel to see if that might work, but we just dug ourselves too big of a hole early on. We should hopefully have five of those 10 starters back for our last game, which will help. It’s just been a rough stretch for everyone.” A couple of early Ragsdale touchdowns combined with Northwest turnovers led to a 35-0 score by halftime, and the Vikings never recovered.

ness, who scored four touchdowns in the first half) is a special player and he got going early,” Wallace said. “We just couldn’t stop the run, but I thought we did a few good things. We just didn’t give ourselves much of a chance because we were down 21-0 pretty quick.” With only the home game against Grimsley remaining on the schedule, Wallace said his team will take the week to re-group and re-focus, as a state playoff berth is still within sight. “They know they still have a shot

Northern Guilford welcomes Morehead on Senior Night By MARC PRUITT It will be an emotional night at Johnny Roscoe Stadium Friday as Northern Guilford (5-4, 3-2 Mid-State 3A) will take on Eden Morehead (2-7, 0-5) on Senior Night.

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to make the playoffs,” Wallace said. “I flat-out challenged the seniors and let them know that this would be the first time in a while Northwest hasn’t been to the playoffs if we don’t make it. I think that really hit them and we’ll use that as our motivation for the next two weeks as we gear up for Grimsley. We hope we can get everyone healed up this week so we can be at relatively full strength. Other than the guys who are out for the season, we should get some key pieces back in time for next Friday.”

...more SPORTS on p. 36

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

By PATTI STOKES Northern Guilford seniors recently got a very real and sobering message about the consequences of texting while driving as they watched “A Message 2 Die 4,” a live crash simulation featuring police, fire, and EMS managing a fatal accident scene just as if it were real. The crash scenario is a culmination of partnerships between first responders, Guilford County schools students and staff, and business owners concerned about the dangers of drivers being distracted when behind the wheel. On the afternoon of Thursday, Oct. 19, the senior class congregated in the student parking lot, where the simulated crash scene unfolded. Over the loudspeakers they heard the deafening sound of two cars colliding. Seconds later tarps were pulled back to reveal a chilling scene and a passerby was heard

Photos by Patti Stokes/NWO

First responders and Northern Guilford drama and public safety students present “A Message 2 Die 4” to Northern Guilford seniors on Oct. 19. The real-life crash simulation offers a sobering message about the consequences of texting while driving.

placing a 911 call. The sound of sirens came from the distance, signaling first responders were on their way. Upon arrival, emergency personnel immediately went into action and assessed the accident victims. While some responders used real equipment to remove victims from the vehicles, other responders performed CPR on one of the victims who was still breathing. Ultimately, the student onlookers saw white cloths being placed over the bodies of three of the crash victims, with the fate of a fourth student uncertain. Chris Foster, a Northern drama student, acted out the part of the driver in the two-car collision who had turned his

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attention away from his driving for just a few seconds to text “OK.” In the crash simulation, that distraction ultimately cost him the life of his girlfriend and two other close friends who were passengers in his vehicle. Still in shock and griefstricken, he was taken away from the crash scene in handcuffs. Later, Foster and other drama students stood over three crosses, one for each of the students who died in the simulated crash. “I didn’t realize when I sit behind that wheel, I control lives…. Until this day, when I took some away,” Foster said emotionally as he addressed his real-life peers. “To the families of the lost ones, if I could go back, I’d be the one in the ground and they’d be standing here. I’d do anything to switch with them. “I lost my friends – all because I tried sending someone ‘OK.’ “You get behind that wheel, be behind that wheel,” he urged his fellow students. “Because if not, then you have to be like me. You have to wake up every day knowing you took the lives of loved ones and people who cared about you – and there’s nothing you can do to change it.”

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Northern English and drama teacher Anna Smith praised her drama students for playing a key role in bringing this year’s Message 2 Die 4 program to their peers. “They wrote, directed and filmed the short video that was shown to all students the day prior,” she said. “I'm really proud of all of their hard work. An opportunity to participate in something like this is, in my opinion, the best kind of learning. It's not easy to allow yourself to be vulnerable in front of your peers and the reality of distracted driving is not an easy topic to tackle. They handled it like responsible adults and I couldn't be more proud.” Northern public safety teacher Liz Everidge and her students also played a key role in the Message 2 Die 4 program. Everidge said she reached out to Officer Price with the Greensboro Police Department last May to talk about bringing the program back to Northern this fall, and the two coordinated their plans over the summer. “We’re one of the few high schools in the county that hasn’t lost a student due to an accident like this,” Everidge said. “We felt it was important for our kids to see this and hear the message.”

Everidge’s Public Safety Level 1, 2 and 3 students did much of the setup for the crash simulation and were fill-ins during the drama department’s making of a film the seniors saw the previous day. “The students love it,” she said of their involvement. “I’ve already had some asking what they can do to be involved next year.” The message about the consequences of distracted driving really hit home for her students, she added, as she hoped it did for all the students. After the simulated crash, police officers with Greensboro Police Department, Guilford County Sheriff BJ Barnes, and Jasmine Spencer, an anchor with Fox8 News, shared accounts of the many accidents they have been called to that have involved distracted drivers, and how easily those accidents could have been avoided. Their message was simple: please, don’t text and drive. Vehicle crashes are the No. 1 cause of teen deaths. According to the National Safety Council, of the teens who die in a vehicle crash, 66 percent were not wearing a seat belt and 58 percent were distracted.

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

Drama student Chris Foster kneels beside three crosses, one for each of the students killed in the simulated crash presented in “A Message 2 Die 4.” In the crash simulation, the accident occurred as a result of Foster being momentary distracted while texting.

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

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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.

NORTHWEST GUILFRD Adam Marshall, football By MARC PRUITT It’s never a good feeling to have your season cut short because of an injury. It’s even worse when it happens during your senior year. Such is the case for Adam Marshall, a two-way starter on the offen-

sive and defensive lines this season at Northwest Guilford. During the second half of the Vikings’ game against West Forsyth last month, Marshall was sizing up an opposing player to make a tackle. As his arms were extended out for the tackle, one of his teammates suddenly crashed into him, leaving Marshall writhing in pain. “It happened really fast,” said Marshall, one of the team captains this season. “I remember going to the ground and then kind of looking around, hoping to get someone’s attention to help me off the field. I was in a lot of pain.”

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

A visit to the doctor the next morning confirmed a fracture of the olecranon bone in his left elbow. An MRI a few days later revealed a torn ligament. With surgery scheduled, Marshall knew his season was over. “It was hard to take in,” he said. “It took me a couple of days to realize that was my last snap, which stinks because it’s my senior year. Now all I can do is lead on the sideline and try to keep everyone’s energy up.” One positive that may come from Marshall’s injury is that he will get somewhat of an education into his desired field of study in college. He plans to pursue a degree in nursing and has already been accepted at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. “My mom is a nurse anesthetist, so I’ve been interested in the medical field my whole life,” Marshall said. “I have an internship lined up in

Contact the Northwest Observer for details on how to become a sponsor for our Student Profiles section! advertising@nwobserver.com (336) 644-7035, ext. 10

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the physical therapy department at Proehlific Park (in Greensboro) this spring.” Marshall is also one of the leaders of Northwest’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapters, volunteers at a soup kitchen through his church, Cornerstone Baptist, and went on a mission trip to Guatemala last summer with former coach Jared Rolfes and numerous teammates.

On a side note, we asked Adam Marshall these three questions…

Q: What’s your favorite sports movie? A: “‘When the Game Stands Tall’” Q: What three people, living or dead, would you invite to dinner? A: “Derek Jeter, Peyton Manning and Abraham Lincoln” Q: Who’s the best teacher you’ve had? A: “Ms. Rhonda Hudson (teaches precalculus and AP calculus at NWHS)”

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NORTHERN GUILFORD C.J. Foxx, football By MARC PRUITT A change in position has not only done C.J. Foxx a lot of good, it’s also been beneficial for his Northern Guilford football teammates. Foxx, a senior, moved from defensive end to inside linebacker this season. Through the first eight games, he led the Nighthawks with 117 tackles (including 55 solo) and was second on the team with four quarterback sacks.

The results have been measurable on the scoreboard as well, as Northern’s defense has been a bit more stingy this season than last. The Nighthawks surrendered 31.5 points a game last season; this season they are giving up a little more than 20 points per game. “Our coaches thought it would be beneficial to the team and to me to make the switch,” Foxx said. “I feel like both positions have their perks, but I’ve really enjoyed playing linebacker. I get to patrol the middle of the field and have a shot at getting to the ball wherever it goes.” Foxx admits he had to adjust to his new position, but as he did so he began to excel at it. “Once Coach (Mart) Grinton

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worked with me on it and I absorbed it, it’s been a fun transition,” Foxx said. “It wasn’t an easy one, but it’s definitely been a fun one now that I have a better understanding of what it entails.” Foxx said he has learned a lot about himself through playing high school football the last four years, from being on the team as a freshman when Northern won a state championship, to stepping into more of a leadership role this season. “By the end of last year, I had a much better understanding of football,” he said. “I feel like my overall football IQ has increased the last two years. Last year, we were very young and the hunger was there, but we made a lot of mistakes. This year, we’re more mature, we’ve cut out a

lot of those mistakes and we’ve been more successful.” Foxx, who also said he is a “warrior in the weight room,” hopes to continue playing football in college while he pursues a career as an engineer.

On a side note, we asked

C.J. Foxx these three questions… Q: Do you have any pre-game superstitions or rituals? A: “I always eat Lucky Charms cereal for breakfast on game day.” Q: What three people, living or dead, would you invite to dinner? A: “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Barack Obama and Mahatma Gandhi” Q: Who’s the best teacher you’ve had? A: “Mr. Jay Simpson (social studies teacher)”

Welcoming new patients Hours

Monday- Friday 7:30 am - 5:30 pm Existing patient walk-ins welcome Accepting most insurance plans Flu shots now available

Kip Corrington, md Patients of all ages

Ashley Michaels, pa-c Marsha White, agnp-c Patients of all ages Patients ages 13+

Northwest Family Medicine (336) 643-3378 • 7607-B Hwy 68 N, Oak Ridge

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

YOUTH / SCHOOL NEWS

...continued from p. 29

Photo courtesy of Kara Winicki/NWHS

Northwest High School students in Kara Winicki’s Early Childhood/Parenting class found a way to help Johnny Van Kemp of Summerfield, a Northern Middle School student who has been battling leukemia since he was in third grade. Joined by Family, Career and Community Leaders of America and Key Club members, the students planned a DIFJ (Do It For Johnny) Walk on Oct. 24. Prior to the walk the student council gave out Jolly Ranchers (Jolly’s for Johnny) for donations during lunch and teachers Mary McDonald, Patsy Lester and Heather Reeder of Summerfield Elementary School, where Johnny attended, came to participate in the walk and made donations.

SPORTS

...continued from p. 31

Don’t waste money on unnecessary service and repair for your European car. Trust EuroHaus to take care of you, not just your vehicle!

Thru October, use coupon code SUPPORT17 and EuroHaus will donate 10% of your bill to support families impacted by breast cancer. *10% donation (up to $200) based on billed work.

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

Dallape, C.J. Foxx, Myles Edringston, Ryan Walton, Lavar Carter, Adam Lovelace, Dan Freeman, Ben Bell and Jhibryl Hogan. “They’ve put their time and effort into this program, even before I got here, and I see how hard they’ve worked in my two years,” coach Erik Westberg said. “This might be the last home game for them because we will most likely be on the road for the playoffs. There are some special kids in this group who we care about and will miss once the season is over, so we need to take care of what we know how to do and send them out with a win.” Though Morehead is winless in the conference, Westberg is not underestimating them. “This is not a team we can take for granted,” he said. “We’re coming off a tough loss and they’ll be looking to spoil

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

things for us. Our biggest challenge this week is to keep these guys motivated. Last week was probably a little reality check because it was a game we could’ve won and probably should’ve won, but we made too many mistakes and put ourselves in a tough position at the end.” The Nighthawks were a half-yard away from a game-winning touchdown with less than 30 seconds remaining in last week’s 26-21 loss at Rockingham County and had four cracks at the end zone. After an incompletion, a deflected pass that was almost intercepted, and another incompletion that killed the clock, running back Chris Foster was stuffed in the backfield on fourth down. “The play just got blown up in the backfield and it never really had a chance,” Westberg said. “It was a crazy sequence just to get down there without any timeouts. We put ourselves in a position to win the game and we couldn’t. It’s disappointing because we went up 14-0 and couldn’t stretch the lead out and we allowed them to get back in the game.”

mark your

Now accepting new furry patients

The right Realtor for you

calendar

(336) 665-1286 www.bel-airevet.com

Serving the northwest Triad area since 1991

To me, honesty and integrity are always in style

THURSDAY, OCT. 26

zz U.S. 158 Bypass Meeting | N.C. Department of

Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC 29 Years Experience

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

Transportation will host a drop-in public meeting on Oct. 26, 4 to 7 p.m., to obtain citizen input on the proposed U.S. 158 Bypass. Section C of the bypass project 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. The drop-in meeting will be held at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road.

SATURDAY, OCT. 28 zz Community Day | The Town of Stokesdale will

host a Community Day Oct. 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. There will be a bounce house for children, vendor tables, a book sale, free hot dogs and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring canned food for a food drive for Good Samaritan Ministries. For more info, email stokesdale@stokesdale.org.

Tanya Hill Realtor/Broker • (336) 965-6053 • tanyahillrealtor.com

 your events submit

online at nwobserver.com

Your event will appear on our online community calendar and will be considered for print publishing in the Northwest Observer

zz Great Pumpkin Event | The Merchants of Oak Ridge

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

invite kids, adults and dogs to the 13th annual Great Pumpkin Event on Oct. 28, 3 to 5 p.m. in Oak Ridge Commons shopping center. Trick or treat with local merchants, enjoy live music, hay rides, pet costume contests, human costume contests and more! For more info, visit MerchantsofOakRidge.com or see ad on p. 2.

Visit our homepage and click “community calendar”

OCT. 30 – NOV. 4 zz Early Voting | Early voting will be open at six addi-

tional locations beginning Monday, Oct. 30, through Friday, 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. More info: www.myguilford.com/elections.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 1 zz Senior Program and Lunch | Guilford County

ces to come and sit Creating spa awhile

• New and existing homes • Office spaces • Outdoor living eleganttransformationsbymarcie.com

residents over age 60 are invited to a monthly program and free catered lunch on Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Ridge United Methodist Church, 2424 Oak Ridge Road. RSVP to Rural Outreach Coordinator Amanda Clark at (336) 373-4816 or ruraloutreach@senior-resources-guilford.org.

November and December we are

COLLECTING supplies and donations

THURSDAY, NOV. 2 Certified Interior Decorator

Call (336) 904-8711 for your free consultation

zz Town Council Meeting | Oak Ridge Town Council

will hold its monthly meeting Nov. 2, 7 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road. More info and agenda: www.oakridgenc.com.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

for the SPCA of the Triad Dr. Julie Dudak

1726 Oak Ridge Road (336) 644-8789 M - F, 7:30 - 5:30 • Sat, 8 -1

vhor.vet | follow us on

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

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...

Best 4K9 and Craft & Vine for hosting the Pups & Pints event on Oct. 14. I love dogs and love that these companies are helping them. All the volunteers at ORES who are such a big part of our school and make all activities awesome! Thanks for the time you give for our kids to have such a unique, thoughtful and fun experience. Last week’s uplifting article on strangers and Kings Crossing Animal Hospital in Stokesdale caring for an injured stray dog found stabbed. “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated (Mahatma Gandhi).” Dove Medical Supply on Summerfield Road. They went above and beyond to help me get the needed medical equipment for in-home care for a loved one. They were caring and responded quickly. One of Summerfield’s best! All those involved in organizing the wonderful Stokesdale Fall Festival on Oct. 21. It was a great, fun family day with lots of terrific craftspeople, artists and food. Special thanks to the Jordahls. NWHS football Vikings, coaches, administrators and faculty for a great job

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

on the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. That was awesome! Northwest High School math teacher Daniel Joyner for always helping students improve in the classroom and finding ways to make math fun. We need more teachers like you. Thank you for all that you do – you’re awesome! Bryan Beck and the entire Oak Ridge Youth Association softball staff for a fun-filled season. You guys are true professionals and really care about the girls and their development. Best program we’ve ever been a part of! The volunteers all over our county who work long hours during Early Voting days, and later at all precincts on Voting Day. It can be frustrating if turnout is low, so show your pride in America’s freedom: Vote!

GRIPES to... Politicians who voted to gut Medicare by turning it into a worthless voucher program so they could give themselves and wealthy donors a windfall in tax breaks. Watch out, seniors! The monster (not human in my eyes) who stabbed and abused the dog that was found in Stokesdale. There is no place in this world for those like you. Neighbors who allow their dog to bark at all hours of the night after 11 p.m. on Will Lee Road. I have a newborn and it’s already hard to get a good night’s rest. The person who hit a doe at 7:15 a.m. Oct. 19 on Stafford Mill Road and left her trying to get up! My vet put her down. And thank you, Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital. This is why you have my business. The Town of Stokesdale for not spending the money to update your website. Last calendar of events is for August 2017 – so, as a citizen I can’t see the October calendar!

...continued on p. 42

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www.lebauer.com

GRINS & GRIPES

CRIME / INCIDENT report

District 1 Sheriff’s Office

has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest Guilford County ... AUTO THEFT Oct. 18 | A resident of Meadow Run Drive, off Lake Brandt Road in northern Greensboro, reported that sometime between 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 17 and 11:08 a.m. on Oct. 18, unknown suspects stole her 2011 Ford Edge. The vehicle, which is valued at $15,000, was secured and parked in the resident’s driveway.

DRUGS/ALCOHOL Oct. 17 | A 16-year-old Northwest High School student was charged with Felony Possession with Intent to Sell or Deliver a Schedule IV Controlled Substance after being found with prescription drugs on the school’s campus. Oct. 17 | A known male suspect who was in a parking lot in the 6000 block of U.S. 158 in Stokesdale was found to be in possession of .2 grams of heroin. The suspect was arrested on an outstanding Order for Arrest out of Rockingham County and charged with Felony Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and traffic violations. He was held in the Guilford County Jail under a $6,000 bond. Oct. 20 | A known female traveling on Haw River Road in Oak Ridge was found to be impaired on alcohol and arrested for DWI and having an Open Container of Alcohol After Consuming at 1:04 a.m.

Brook Road, off James Doak Highway in northern Greensboro, reported an unknown suspect used his name and Social Security number on Oct. 8 to file for unemployment benefits.

THEFT/BREAKING & ENTERING Oct. 19 | The owner of Treeline Landscaping & Nursery on Athens Road in Stokesdale reported that unknown suspects broke into an outbuilding located on the business premises sometime between the evening hours of Oct. 18 and 8 a.m. on Oct. 19. A concrete saw, two Stihl chainsaws and a Stihl backpack leaf blower with an estimated value of $2,700 were stolen. Oct. 19 | A blunt object was used to break a window and gain entry into three vehicles parked overnight at TireMax on N.C. 68 in Stokesdale on Oct. 18 (this is a previously reported incident with an update). Tools, clothing, household items and about $200 in change were stolen. All the items were later located and recovered near the wooded areas behind the business.

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

FRAUD Oct. 19 | A resident of Annry Drive, off Strawberry Road in Greensboro, reported an unknown suspect withdrew $400 from her checking account sometime between the afternoon of Oct. 18 and 1:03 a.m. on Oct. 19.

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

in case of emergency, dial

www.guilfordcountysheriff.com

Oct. 19 | A resident of Mountain

911

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

Capt. Robert Elliott

...continued from p. 40

Neighbors off Pepper Road who played music so loud after 11 p.m. that I heard it 200 yards away inside my house with windows and doors closed. Be courteous to your neighbors! People who are easily offended by jokes. It’s a joke, get over yourself! Jokes are meant for poking fun, for amuse-

ment and laughter. Unless someone says something to deliberately hurt you, take the comments lightly and move on. Drivers at Oak Ridge Commons who don’t use the stop signs. A stop sign is a stop sign, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you say to yourself “Should I stop?” then you’re doing it wrong!

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.

Craft fair showcases spirit of community Visits to Stokesdale reminded me so much of my roots that I moved here 3 ½ years ago. There is no sense of urgency and everyone seems to know everyone else. I’m not referring to the names or faces of the people we know, but the kindred spirit in which we greet one another, whether it’s a wave of your hand, or a smile or kind word, or something as simple as “how are you?” It’s acknowledging that someone exists outside of ourselves, and showing that they matter. This has never been more evident than this past Saturday. Between Stokesdale Baptist Church’s graciousness in providing the location and a building for this incredible event, along with Mary Jordahl’s backyard and her ability to bring over 90 local artists and food vendors together on Oct. 21, our community’s spirit was alive and thriving! This fair was huge, and people came from everywhere to support and admire the work of talented and hardworking artists. Visitors also strolled about our town while taking in the quaint store buildings

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

and venturing into establishments like Bi-Rite and the Dollar General; and, I’m sure purchasing gas was on someone’s list of “Must Do’s” before heading home. It’s hard to imagine that anybody was not affected by this event! I overheard people talking to one another about how nice everyone was and that they would like to come back and explore our town again. And we can’t leave out the food drive that was also conducted here – the community collected almost 500 cans for the Stokesdale Food Bank – nearly double what was collected last year at this fair! It was a perfect day! The weather was wonderful, children could be heard laughing, and the camaraderie among everyone present was evident. We are blessed to have residents who want to make our town stand out. It gives me an overwhelming sense of pride to say “I live here.” I can’t wait to see what next year’s Fall Festive Craft Fair will bring! Diana Dean, STOKESDALE

AUTO SALES & SERVICE

EMPLOYMENT

SAVE THE DATE

2009 HONDA CRV LX, 86,350 miles, VG condition, silver, $9,500. (336) 816-2796.

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.

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 2 for all the info.

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

Place online at

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.

EMPLOYMENT DEADLINE: Monday prior to each issue

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

INDEX Auto Sales & Service .................. 43 Employment ............................... 43 Save the Date ............................ 43 Yard/Garage Sales ................. 43-44 Home Services ....................... 44-45 Misc. Services......................... 45-46 Misc. for Sale ............................. 46 Misc. Wanted ............................. 46 Pets & Animal Services ................ 46 Real Estate ................................. 46

PIANO PLAYER WANTED. Fri., Dec. 22, 2-3pm, Ellisboro Rd. $25. (336) 554-1184. Town of Stokesdale DEPUTY TOWN CLERK / RECEPTIONIST. Responsible for a wide range of clerical and recordkeeping duties, preparing reports, ability to type 30/35 wpm, ability to perform strongly in Microsoft Word, ability to be discreet in processing sensitive information. Work week TBD, approx. 25 hours/week. Must be sworn in to duties of the office according to State Statutes. No benefits. Valid driver’s license required. Submit resume to: Town Administrator, PO Box 465, Stokesdale, NC 27357 or email resume to stokesdale@ stokesdale.org with Resume Deputy Clerk in subject line. HELP NEEDED AT LOCAL HORSE FARM. Part-time work every other Saturday and every Sunday, and some afternoons during the week. Experience with horses a must. If interested, please call (336) 209-4050. BELLA LUNA RISTORANTE of Oak Ridge is now hiring experienced professional waitstaff. Applicants must be positive, team players, and be at least 18. To apply, please fill out an application at 2205 Oak Ridge Road in the Oak Ridge Commons shopping center.

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 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 20 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 ad in our Oct. 20 issue 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!

Something

going on

Tell northwest Guilford County Place your Save the Date online at

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Tabitha Ministry’s FALL EXTRAVAGANZA will be held on Saturday, Nov. 4, 10am-3pm, at Calvary Church, 1665 Pleasant Ridge Rd., Greensboro, NC. Vendors with crafts, novelties, services, baked goods, jewelry, etc., will be present. Bounce house and games for the kids. Come out for a time of fun and fellowship! PALESTINE UMW FALL BAZAAR, Sat., Nov. 4, 8am-12n, 2954 Ellisboro Road, Stokesdale. Breakfast, baked goods, vendors, holiday items, quilt & afghan raffle. Something for everyone! FALL BAZAAR, Sat., Nov. 11, 8am-12n, Mt. Zion UMC, 3708 Ellisboro Road, Stokesdale. Homemade canned & baked goods, unique handmade items, Christmas bows, handmade quilt raffle, gently used treasures, UMW Heritage Cookbook, breakfast biscuits and lots more! ARTS & CRAFTS EXTRAVAGANZA and bake sale, Saturday, Nov. 18, 9am-1pm, Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, 2615 Oak Ridge Road. Please visit ORPC.org or call (336) 643-3452 for more info.

YARD/GARAGE SALES STOKESDALE UMC YARD SALE, Sat., Oct. 28, 7am-1pm, Hwy. 158 in downtown Stokesdale. Bake sale items, breakfast, yard sale treasures. MULTI-FAMILY YARD SALE, Saturday, October 28, 8am-2pm, corner of Bunch & Brookbank Roads in Oak Ridge. Household goods, clothes, tools. Something for everyone & priced to sell!

... more yard sales on p. 44

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

YARD/GARAGE SALES

HOME SERVICES

YARD SALE, Sat., Oct. 28, 8am-until, 7403 Summersby Drive, Summerfield. Designer jeans, china, glassware, shoes, lots of stuff new and old!

MAIDS OF HONOR HOME CLEANING $25 off! Locally owned, bonded staff. 40 years in service. BBB A+ rating. (336) 708-2407.

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

LAWN CARE / LANDSCAPING

YARD SALE in Lennox Woods, Sat., Oct. 28, 7am, 1460 Bethan Dr., Summerfield. Furniture, tons of clothes (women’s, men’s, kids’), toys, home décor.

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.

HOME SERVICES CLEANING

Your business should be here!

DECORATING

AMERICAN MAID New to your area. Two years experience. All your basic housecleaning needs. Call for your free estimate. (336) 409-4554. 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. CHRISTIAN MOM needs work cleaning houses, running errands. Will fit to your budget. Pet taxi/pet sitting also avail. References. Call Laura Bennett, (336) 231-1838. ANA’S HOUSECLEANING. Good references, free est., 25 years exp. (336) 309-0747.

EXPERIENCED INTERIOR DECORATOR & personal furniture shopper will help you with style, color, shopping & furniture placement. E-mail appeninc@gmail.com or call Ann Appenzeller, (336) 314-1411.

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

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

HOME CLEANING. Afford. rates, ref. avail., 10 years exp. Elizabeth, (336) 453-8592. THE CLEANING TECHNICIAN INC. With school back and, and work also, let me give you a quote for your detailed cleaning. Licensed, bonded & insured. Call for your free quote! Lisa, (336) 207-0770. CastleWorks WINDOW CLEANING Includes gutters, pressure washing, chandeliers and other high ladder work. Fully insured and bonded, free estimates. (336) 609-0677. www.castleworkswindowcleaning.com.

Follow us on Facebook and keep up with all the news! GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES AFFORDABLE HOME REPAIRS One call fixes it all! A+ rating with BBB! Call (336) 987-0350 for a free estimate.

OLD SCHOOL HOME REPAIR/ IMPROVEMENT

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.

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

“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

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. 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.

Decks | Sun & Screened Porches Roofing | Windows | Gutters REPAIRS | RENOVATIONS

(336) 643-0531 haleyhahn.com Licensed & insured

GRADING / HAULING ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt available. Zane Anthony, (336) 362-4035. 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.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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

HOME SERVICES

TRACTOR FOR HIRE – Bush hogging, grading, brush/tree removal. (336) 207-6632.

MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS

PLUMBING

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

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

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.

336/404-1471 www.fmtriad.com

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

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

The Northwest Observer

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

reaches EVERY MAILBOX with an Oak Ridge, Summerfield and Stokesdale mailing address. Want to come along? Call (336) 644-7035 for info.

PAINTING & DRYWALL

BEK Paint Co. Residential & Commercial

MASONRY

David & Judy Long, owners

(336) 931-0600 Fireplaces and firepits

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

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.

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.

PRESSURE WASHING CUTTING EDGE PRESSURE WASHING Affordable. Dependable. Please call anytime for free estimate, (336) 706-0103. WINDOW GENIE PRESSURE WASHING Soft house washing. Window film, window cleaning, gutters. Fully ins. Free est., Greensboro.windowgenie.com, (336) 268-8586. PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Fully insured. Crystal Clear, www. windowcleaningnc.com. (336) 595-2873.

25,000+ readers every week! Let us introduce you!

BEKPaintCompany.com

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

• References Available • Licensed & Insured • All Work Guaranteed

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

CINDY’S PAINTING – Interior painting, wallpaper removal. References & free estimates available. (336) 708-9155. PAINTING – INTERIOR & EXTERIOR 32 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. No job too small. Insured. Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186.

Find us on Facebook! facebook.com/northwestobserver CARLOS & SON PAINTING, interior & exterior. Free est., lic/ins. (336) 669-5210. STILL PERFECTION PAINTING Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com.

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

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, siding, dock work, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Sr. disc., 38 years exp. (336) 362-6343. HAMMERSMITH WOODWORKING INC. Carpentry, custom cabinetry, built-ins, exterior repairs. ASP - Helping Hand. Over 30 years exp.. Call Carlton, (336) 404-3002. 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.

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ROOFING PREMIER ROOFING CONSTRUCTION Insurance specialist, free inspections, res./ comm., BBB A rating. (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.

MISC. SERVICES COMPUTER REPAIRS – ITBASICS.COM Inside Mailboxes & More, Oak Ridge Commons. (336) 643-0068.

...continued on p. 46

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

 MISC. SERVICES

 REAL ESTATE

QUICKBOOKS PRO ADVISOR www.alignVB.com.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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.

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

We Help Everyone! SELLERS & BUYERS

ERIE INSURANCE – IN KERNERSVILLE Long Insurance Services, (336) 992-5664.

LAND FOR SALE

 MISC. FOR SALE

(336) 643-4248

SEASONED FIREWOOD, delivered and stacked, 1/2 cord, $80. Call (336) 686-6373. PUMPKINS, MUMS & FRESH PRODUCE. Knight’s Produce, 14809 Highway 158, Summerﬁeld. Call (336) 708-0485. SPLIT & SEASONED FIREWOOD. Delivery available. (336) 643-9332. PERSIMMON PULP, jam, pudding, and more! (336) 816-3441 or (336) 996-3892.

Clean out that garage and sell your unused stuﬀ here! Place your ad online at www.nwobserver.com.

 MISC. WANTED $$$ – WILL PAY CASH up to $200 for your junk or wrecked vehicle. (336) 552-0328. CLASSIC CARS WANTED! Sport Auto in Summerﬁeld will buy your classic car. Contact Steve, (336) 643-9595.

 REAL ESTATE

www.ANewDawnRealty.com HOMES FOR RENT MOBILE HOME, 2BR, 1BA, 2.37-acre private wooded lot w/ deck. Haw River Road. $675/mo. + $675/dep. Email rongdurham@ msn.com, or call (702) 401-4267. STOKESDALE, 3BR, 2BA mobile home, all appliances, W/D hookup, very clean, 2-3 miles from Stokesdale, Summerfield and Oak Ridge. $750/mo. + first & last mo. rent. (336) 643-3932 or (336) 312-1849. 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.

HOMES FOR SALE

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.

23+ ACRES, STONEVILLE, NC, Grogan Road, within minutes of Lowes and Walmart. Up-and-coming growing area, hunting stand, feeders, well, pond, stream running along property, large 30’x50’ storage building. Hunting retreat with A/C, mini kitchen, sleeping area, open ﬁelds, wooded areas, last perked in 2014. Showings by appointment only. Cash or pre-qualiﬁed buyers only. $199K. Call (561) 704-6179.

BUILDER’S PERSONAL HOME! 5812 Crutchfield Farm Road.

Great stuff behind and in front of the walls! Loaded with extras on level acre in Oak Ridge.Just over 3700 SF with 2BR on 1st floor and 2BR upstairs. 3.5BA, granite, hardwoods, stone FPL, 3 car-garage. Offered for $479,000

Nancy J. Hess

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

HOMES FOR SALE OVERLOOKS THE WATER!

2807 Alderman Court, Greensboro 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

Nestled on just under 12 acres, this Summerfield beauty is spectacular. Custom retreat on private gated setting. Each room expertly designed highlighting lake views with ultimate upgrades. 6500+ SF, 3 car-garage. $1,194,000

Jake Letterman (336) 338-0136

 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.

FOR SALE BY OWNER, LAKEFRONT 2,000-sq.-ft. home on 3 acres w/private setting. Half unﬁn. basement, full attic w/permanent stairs. New whole-house back-up generator, HVAC, water heater, & exterior paint! Barn & heated greenhouse. NW Schools. Rare Oak Ridge ﬁnd at $275,000! (336) 287-8630.

OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

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

Nancy J. Hess

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

index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

Please support our advertisers, and tell them where you saw their ad! ACCOUNTING Samuel Anders, CPA, MSA, PC ......... 37

Jim Kinneman, Oak Ridge ................ 23 Mike Stone, Oak Ridge ......................21

ARTS / DANCE / KARATE

CHILDREN’S SERVICES

EVENTS Brews & Barrels for Belle ....................10 Great Pumpkin Event .......................... 2

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES BEK Paint Company .......................... 45 Carpets by Direct .............................. 40 Carpet Super Mart .......................24-25 Elegant Transformations by Marcie ... 37 Furniture Medic ................................ 45 Haley Hahn Home Solutions ............ 44 Marshall Stone ................................. 45 New Garden Landscape & Nursery .. 26 New Garden Select ...........................11 Old School Home Repair .................. 44 ProStone ............................................. 6 Stokesdale Heating & Air ...................17

Northern Arts Studio .......................... 9

Guardian Ad Litem Program ............ 35

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE

CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES

EuroHaus ......................................... 36 Piedmont Truck Tires Inc. ..................31

Oak Ridge Chiropractic ...................... 5

Attorney Bill Barbour ........................ 22

BUILDER

CHURCHES

Walraven Signature Homes ...............18

Oak Ridge United Methodist Church 20 Triad Baptist Church ........................... 4

MEDICAL CARE / PRODUCTS

CANDIDATES

DENTAL CARE

Adams, Laughlin, Sessoms ................15 Ann Schneider, Oak Ridge .................19

DeVaney Dentistry .............................. 5 Infinity Dental ................................... 34

LEGAL SERVICES

Carolina Priority Care ........................ 28 Cone Health / MedCenter High Point 3 Dove Medical Supply ...................38-39 LeBauer Healthcare ..........................41

Northwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 13 Novant – Northwest Family Medicine 35

ORTHODONTIC CARE Mitchell, Bartlett & Bell Orthodontics 30 Olmsted Orthodontics ...................... 35 Reynolds Orthodontics ..................... 29

PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS Almost Home Boarding & Grooming .. 8 Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital .............. 37 Northwest Animal Hospital ................13 Veterinary Hospital of Oak Ridge....... 37 Westergaard Kennels ........................ 32

REAL ESTATE A New Dawn Realty .......................... 46 Jake Letterman, Berkshire Hathaway 46 Nancy Hess, Berkshire Hathaway ..... 46 Summerfield Farms .......................... 33 Tanya Hill, Realty One ...................... 37

RETAIL Bi-Rite Galaxy Supermarket ................ 7 Colfax Furniture & Mattress .............. 27 David Cole Pottery .............................12

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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OCT. 27 - NOV. 2, 2017

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her Northwest t Debbie Traub took maro, which she Observer – and her Ca – to drive the calls the Scarlet Witch als Gap, North Tail of the Dragon in De etch of U.S. 129, Carolina. The 11-mile str oky Mountains, nestled in the Great Sm says it was a total has 318 curves. Debbie adrenaline rush!

 (From left) James (AKA “Security Detail,” who guards his family’s Northwest Observer from any and all hazards), Amy, Larry and Kalistas read their Northwest Observer in Samara, Costa Rica, at the Tree House Inn.

p Stokesdale Cub Scout Pack 141 kicked off their year with a camping trip to Cherokee Scout Reservation in Yanceyville, North Carolina – and of course they took their Northwest Observer! The Scouts learned and had fun while hiking, fishing, making crafts and more.

ver to Guatemala, their Northwest Obser k too es let ath ol ho Sc n that connects  Northwest High Promise, an organizatio ’s ine rol Ca h wit red et the needs of where they voluntee developing nations to me in s he urc ch h wit s itie American commun children. orphans and vulnerable