Northwest Observer / Nov. 16 - Dec. 6, 2023 by pscommunications

Nov. 16 - Dec. 6, 2023

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Among our many blessings Compiled by ANNETTE JOYCE At this Thanksgiving season, we continue our annual tradition of asking our readers what they are most thankful for. While most of them offered similar themes, they also offered some unique perspectives on life’s many blessings. Here’s what they had to share… “As a mom with a teenage son, I am so thankful for his friend group. These kids are kind, caring and always have each other’s backs. They are all very unique, from personality to nationality. They talk and goof for hours, they listen to each other, cry together and pick each other up. It’s so important for them to have others they can count on, and especially for our son, who is an only child. “I am blessed to have these kids in my life, too, and am happy to have them over one at a time or all six at once. I am their ‘Uber,’ their safe person, their other mom. “Take the time to get to know your kids’ friends and be there for them when they can’t be with their parents or are afraid. I always wanted to be

IN THIS ISSUE New ABC store on the horizon on N.C. 68....2 News in brief......................................................3 Oak Ridge council meeting, Nov. 2.............8 Stokesdale council meeting, Nov. 9...........10 Summerfield council meeting, Nov. 14......12 Community Calendar..................................16 Welcome to our new advertisers................18 Honoring our veterans..................................19 NWO Kids’ Korner...........................................22 NWO Business & Real Estate.........................23 Congrats ORPT & To the Moon and Back...24 Mortgage rates up, housing supply low...28 Students, Scouts celebrate Veterans Day...30 Grins and Gripes............................................ 31 Classifieds.......................................................34 NWO On The Go.............................................40

the house all the kids hang out at. I am happy to have them.” Julie Surprenant, OAK RIDGE “I am most thankful for a loving wife, great kids and two fabulous grandkids, Finley, 4, and Quinn, 2. We are very blessed.” Mark Brown, SUMMERFIELD “I have always had a close family and miss my parents daily, but especially during the holidays. Every year, we laugh about the time my mother made a chocolate pie and put smoke flavoring in it instead of vanilla – really nasty taste! “We miss my husband Jay’s mom, whose cranberry salad is like no other. She shared her recipe, but it’s never going to be as good. ...continued on p. 37

Challengers dominate Summerfield, Oak Ridge municipal elections Newcomers pledge greater transparency, fiscal responsibility by CHRIS BURRITT NW GUILFORD – Summerfield and Oak Ridge voters unseated all but one Town Council member seeking re-election last week, as challengers campaigned on pledges to listen to voters more closely and spend taxpayer money more wisely. In Summerfield, disagreement over how to prevent the possible de-annexation of developer David Couch’s nearly 1,000 acres dominated campaigning in the weeks leading up to the Nov 7 election. Incumbents Reece Walker and Jeff Davis finished in fourth and fifth place out of the eight town council

candidates vying for three open council seats. Last month, Walker, Davis and council member John Doggett voted in favor of a text amendment to the town’s development rules to accommodate Couch’s plans for apartments and other higher-density housing on his 978 acres. Summerfield Mayor Pro Tem Lynne Williams DeVaney emerged as the top vote getter among the eight council candidates, after voting against the text amendment a month earlier. “The message was clear that people oppose de-annexation, but they also oppose the Oct. 5th text amendment,” said Jonathan Hamilton, elected along with another newcomer, Heath Clay, and DeVaney. “People do not want to see Summerfield compromised by overdevelopment,

...continued on p. 6

NEWS in brief OOPS!

A front-page article in our Nov. 2-15 issue reported incorrectly that Republican Mark Walker lost the 6th District congressional election to Democrat Kathy Manning in 2021. The election occurred in 2020. Walker didn’t seek

reelection to the District 6 seat after a court-ordered redrawing of the district favored Democrats. Manning won that race against Republican candidate (and Summerfield resident) Lee Haywood. The Northwest Observer regrets the errors.

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Rumors that the ABC Store on U.S. 220 in Summerfield will close when a new ABC store opens on N.C. 68 in northwest Greensboro in 2025 are unfounded. According to the Greensboro ABC Board’s CEO and general manager, Niegel Sullivan, the new store will replace the ABC store on Fleming Road in northwestern Greensboro.

New ABC store may impact liquor sales in Oak Ridge A new ABC store on N.C. 68 is slated to open mid-year 2025; it will replace the ABC store on Fleming Road in northwestern Greensboro

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OAK RIDGE – Competition over liquor sales is brewing between Oak Ridge’s ABC store and a new store slated for N.C. 68 in northwestern Greensboro, just south of town.

The Greensboro ABC Board plans to open a store on Highway 68 next to

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the Sheetz gasoline convenience store sometime between May and July 2025, according to Niegel Sullivan, the board’s CEO and general manager. The new store will replace the ABC store at 2309 Fleming Road, near the Cardinal subdivision.

Even though the opening of the Highway 68 store is a year and a half away, the operator of the ABC store in the Oak Ridge Commons shopping center is preparing for competition. The Oak Ridge store is operated by the Triad Municipal ABC Board, which anticipates losing sales to the Highway 68 store, at least initially, according to Jimm Barbery, Oak Ridge’s representative on the Triad board.

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“We will stock the Oak Ridge ABC store over the top” when the new store opens, Barbery told the Town Council during its Nov. 2 meeting. “We will keep the Oak Ridge store overstocked so anybody looking for anything will find it.” Based on experience, Barbery said, the Triad board expects the Oak Ridge store to suffer an initial drop in sales. “Generally, it kind of comes back,” he said. Barbery said rumors had been circulating that the new store may replace the ABC store in the Food Lion shopping center on U.S. 220 in Summerfield. However, that is not true, according to Sullivan. The Greensboro board plans to close the Fleming Road

location in northwestern Greensboro, he said.

“We will not be closing or relocating the Summerfield location,” Sullivan said in an email last week. “Greensboro ABC Board is happy with the current location and partnership with the Town of Summerfield.” Municipalities such as Oak Ridge and Summerfield share in the operating profit of ABC stores that operate in the towns. The Greensboro board selected the Highway 68 site “due to the increasing population in this area of Greensboro,” Sullivan added. Plans for opening the store won approval from the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board in September.

Teenager killed in Old Oak Ridge Road traffic accident By CHRIS BURRITT NW GREENSBORO – A 15-year-old Northwest Guilford High School student died last Wednesday night, Nov. 8, after being struck by a vehicle on Old Oak Ridge Road near the Cardinal subdivision. Greensboro police responded to the accident at 8:03 p.m. The obituary for Audrey Taylor "Sydney" Grebe said she was skateboarding when she was struck by a car.

...continued on p. 4

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humor, and passion illuminated every room she entered. Her untimely departure has left family and friends grappling with the profound loss of a bright and promising soul.’’

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Driver Russell Paul Thompson, 52, of Greensboro was driving south when he hit the victim, according to a statement from the city of Greensboro. The driver remained on the scene after the accident and wasn’t impaired. The teen died at the scene. “Audrey lived life with an unparalleled bravery and boldness,’’ said the obituary from Forbis and Dick. “Audrey's intelligence, cleverness,

She is survived by her parents, Aimee and Brian Grebe, her sister, Harper Grebe, and three grandparents. The family held a visitation service at the Forbis and Dick Guilford Chapel this past Wednesday, Nov. 15. In lieu of flowers, the family requested that donations be made to Northwest High School in Audrey's honor.

Council submits comments, concerns regarding highway, traffic projects STOKESDALE – Stokesdale Town Council has compiled its feedback for NCDOT regarding highway/traffic projects under consideration. Council members and Stokesdale Fire District representatives met with NCDOT personnel Nov. 2 to discuss the department’s plans for roadway projects within the town; afterward, a period for NCDOT to receive public comments was extended to Nov. 30. The Nov. 2 meeting focused on R-5823, which encompasses proposed roundabouts and/or road widening on N.C. 68 in Rockingham County as well as at the intersection of Ellisboro and N.C. 65, and the intersection of U.S. 158 and N.C. 65 at the old Bi-Rite. One of the fire department’s concerns centers on a potential roundabout at the Ellisboro Road/Belews

Creek Road intersection, and the potential for traffic backups due to the amount of tractor-trailer traffic that passes through those intersections. The department is also requesting NCDOT look at the feeder/side streets that intersect with Belews Creek Road. Council will add the fire department’s concerns to its request that NCDOT further vet the proposal of a roundabout at the U.S. 158 and Belews Creek Road intersection and consider alternatives to slowing traffic there. NCDOT will also be asked to further review roadway improvements to the west end of 158 so that incoming traffic would be notified heavier traffic is ahead, to further consider pedestrian safety throughout the town core, and to minimize the negative impact of road projects on businesses and private property owners on Main Street.

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CHALLENGERS DOMINATE...continued from p. 1 regardless of how it happens.” Mayor Tim Sessoms was the only supporter of the text amendment to win re-election. He didn’t vote in last month’s 3-2 passage of the amendment because in Summerfield the mayor votes only to break a tie. However, the mayor shared campaign advertising with Walker and Davis stating that a failure of the council to pass the amendment would lead to the “virtual certainty” that the state General Assembly would pass de-annexation legislation. After defeating Linda Wendelken in last week’s election, Sessoms will serve another two-year term as mayor. The election of Hamilton and Clay “brings more balance to the council,” Wendelken said in an email earlier this week. In Summerfield, a first order of business will be acquainting newly elected members with documents related to the town’s de-annexation fight, according to DeVaney. Some of the documents, such as advice from the town’s lawyers, haven’t been made public so reviewing them will give new council members a better understanding of de-annexation negotiations. In Oak Ridge’s election, challengers rallied voters opposed to the council’s plan to spend $630,000 to renovate and expand the historic Redmon house, while declining to reduce the town’s property tax rate. “My main reason for running was what I perceived as wasteful spending by the council,” said Michael Greeson, elected to Oak Ridge Town Council along with former councilman Mike

Stone and newcomer Jim Harton. “I want transparency between the council, its various committees and the citizens.” Incumbents Martha Pittman and George McClellan came in fourth and fifth place among the five candidates vying for three open council seats in Oak Ridge. Council member Spencer Sullivan didn’t seek reelection. “The voters have clearly stated that they want a stop to the wasteful spending and a return to lower taxes,” Stone said in an email earlier this week. “They rightly expect transparency in the way that the town council and all of the boards and committees operate.” During the campaign, Stone reiterated his criticism of the council for its refusal to lower the town’s property tax rate after a countywide reappraisal in 2022 increased property values in Oak Ridge, and referred to Pittman and McClellan as “`tax and spend’ politicians”’ who voted to “effectively raise your taxes.” “We did not increase taxes!” McClellan said in an interview last week. In Facebook posts, Mayor Ann Schneider and Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman expressed differing views on taxes. The mayor endorsed Pittman, McClellan and Harton, who serves as chair of the Water Advisory Committee and a Finance Committee member, as candidates who have helped keep “our tax rate among the lowest in NC.” Kinneman, on the other hand, said, “when there is a property revaluation as happened last year and the tax rate

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STOKESDALE Town Council members elected Nov. 7

OAK RIDGE Town Council members elected Nov. 7 Jim Harton

Mike Stone

Mike Greeson

Jim Rigsbee

Derek Foy

Jimmy Landreth

SUMMERFIELD Mayor, Town Council members elected Nov. 7

Tim Sessoms, mayor

Lynne W. DeVaney

chosen causes the amount of tax you pay to go up, for me that is a tax increase.” In response to Stone’s criticism of Oak Ridge earmarking $630,000 in this fiscal year’s budget for refurbishing the Redmon house, Schneider pointed out $380,000 in federal pandemic relief and state funds will defray costs for refurbishing the structure into the Farmhouse Community Center. After Oak Ridge’s swearing-in ceremony next month, the council will elect a mayor and mayor pro tem from among themselves, with each serving in those roles for the next two years. All three Stokesdale Town Council incumbents – Mayor Pro Tem Derek Foy, Jim Rigsbee and Jimmy Landreth – easily won re-election last week, with only four votes separating them; each will go on to serve a second four-year term.

Jonathan Hamilton

Heath Clay

Foy said he believes the votes reflect that “most folks are pleased with the direction the Town is going.” “We look forward to continuing the work that we have started with regards to park expansion and water system stabilization,” Rigsbee said in an email. Running for Stokesdale Town Council for a third time, challenger Mark Nadel got fewer than half the votes of the winners. In an interview, he said he filed as a candidate at the last minute so the three incumbents wouldn’t go unchallenged. “I wanted people to have a choice,” he said. Newly elected and re-elected candidates will take the oath of office during the December council meetings in Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Stokesdale.

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OAK RIDGE town council

Nov. 2 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by CHRIS BURRITT OAK RIDGE – Mayor Ann Schneider called the monthly meeting to order, with Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman and council members George McClellan, Martha Pittman and Spencer Sullivan present.

AGENDA  5  0 to approve the meeting

agenda after amending it to add a closed session to discuss a legal matter and a report from the Triad Municipal ABC Board.

ANNOUNCEMENT 25th anniversary flag. Schneider said the town will be receiving a U.S. flag that was recently flown over the state capitol in Raleigh in honor of Oak Ridge’s incorporation 25 years ago.

PUBLIC SAFETY Sheriff’s Office. Sgt. Ryan Seals reported the District 1 sheriff’s office responded to 199 calls in Oak Ridge in October, resulting in 19 formal case reports. Investigators are trying to identify four juveniles who attempted to break into Wendy’s restaurant the night of Oct. 31. In response to a complaint by town staff, deputies stopped and warned individuals racing two vehicles in Town Park.

“They are on our radar” in the event of further incidents, Seals said.

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Autumn Fite, 14, of Oak Ridge’s BSA Troop 219, offered the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance at Oak Ridge Town Council’s Nov. 2 meeting.

Oak Ridge Fire Department. Firefighter Kyle Solomon reported the department handled 95 calls last month, which included 46 medical calls, two vehicle fires and two structure fires. Personnel obtained 446.5 hours of training. Grading for the fire training tower behind Station 15 on Linville Road will soon get underway, with the building construction possibly complete by late December, Solomon said.

MANAGER’S REPORT

Committee appointments

 5  0 to reappoint Barbara Engel

and Brian Hall to the Historic Preservation Commission and Paul Carney and Emma Millard as alternates to the commission. Corrine Pickford was appointed as an alternate to the Board of Adjustment. Randy Collins, who represents Oak Ridge Youth Association, was elevated from an alternate to full member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

2024 meeting and holiday schedules

 5  0 to approve next year’s schedules for town meetings and holidays.

8 NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023

Cybersecurity analysis. Town Manager Bill Bruce reported a National Guard analysis found security protocols for

Oak Ridge’s servers and connected devices are in “very good shape,” with users following best practices.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Mike Stone praised Oak Ridge Fire Department for its quick response to a medical emergency at his home last month and said he appreciated first responders following up afterwards to express their concern. Maria Adams, who serves as chapter chair of Guilford County Moms for Liberty, said the nonprofit, nonpartisan group plans to partner with Guilford Patriots in offering an eight-week course on Biblical citizenship. Patti Dmuchowski said she learned much about Oak Ridge during a recent walking tour of the historic district.

FINANCIAL UPDATE  5  0 to approve the town’s financial report for October after finance officer Sam Anders provided an update about the water enterprise fund. The town billed $4,630.57 for tap fees at Honeycutt Reserve last month. The subdivision under development on Bunch Road is the first customer of the town’s municipal water system.

COMMUNITY UPDATES Special Events Committee. Chair Patti Dmuchowski reported fundraising

WHAT they voted on, and HOW they voted: Mayor Ann Schneider, Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman and council members George McClellan, Martha Pittman and Spencer Sullivan voted on the following items during the council’s Nov. 2 meeting…

 5  0: Approve amending the meeting agenda to add a closed session and a report from the Triad Municipal ABC Board  5  0: Approve several committee appointments and reappointments  5  0: Approve next year’s schedules for town meetings and holidays  5  0: Approve the town’s October financial report for the Veterans Honor Green totaled $12,586 in October, which includes the town’s match of $7,383. A lawn party celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Benbow house raised more than $1,100 for the veterans’ site, she noted.

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Co-chair John Browning reported the board has booked three bands for next year’s Music in the Park;

a total of six concerts are planned.

Water Advisory Committee. Chair Jim Harton reported the committee continues to negotiate the town’s watersupply agreement with Winston-Salem/ Forsyth County Utilities. As proposed, a line will carry water from Kernersville to the elevated storage tank to be erected behind Town Hall on Linville Road. Historic Preservation Commission.

Member Barbara Engel reported the commission’s Historic Heritage Grant Committee awarded a historic preservation grant for restoration of the Moore House at N.C. 150 and Linville Road and plans to review a grant request from the Old Mill of Guilford.

Mountains-to-Sea Trail Committee. The committee has scheduled a Headwaters Trail workday from 9 a.m. to noon this coming Saturday, Nov. 18. Volunteers will meet at the Linville Road trailhead. Oak Ridge Youth Association. Randy Collins, community relations director, said the field user agreement between the association and the town is aimed at “providing superior facilities and sports programs” for youth. He paraphrased the preamble to the agreement, which both parties are negotiating for next year. Triad Municipal ABC Board. Jimm Barbery, Oak Ridge’s representative on the board, said the ABC store at

Oak Ridge Commons will face greater competition from a Greensboro ABC Board store under consideration for N.C. 68 next to the Sheetz store.

COUNCIL COMMENTS Sullivan and Pittman urged townsfolk to participate in Oak Ridge’s holiday events. Kinneman, Pittman and McClellan praised efforts by volunteers. Schneider congratulated the town on its 25th anniversary. McClellan suggested town staff request that North Carolina Department of Transportation consider placing a flashing caution signal alerting motorists to the stop light at N.C. 68 and Alcorn Road; deputy town clerk Ashley Royal said staff had already done so.

CLOSED SESSION

The council entered a closed session to discuss a legal matter and returned to open session about 35 minutes later. No action was taken, and the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

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NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023 9

STOKESDALE town council

Nov. 9 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by PATTI STOKES Mayor Pro Tem Derek Foy called the monthly meeting to order at 7 p.m., with council members Tim Jones and Jimmy Landreth present; Mayor Mike Crawford was absent, and council member Jim Rigsbee arrived at 8:25 p.m.

PUBLIC SAFETY

Fire Department. Stokesdale Fire Chief Todd Gauldin said Rockingham County enacted a burning ban as of 5 p.m. on this day. While there was no burn ban in Guilford County yet, he urged residents not to burn yard waste until the area has had some significant rain. Gauldin also encouraged residents to call 911 in the event of an emergency rather than coming to the fire station. “It (coming directly to the fire

station) is very dangerous, because it delays the response time to get help to you. The 911 system for emergencies is a good system – it’s not perfect, but it’s the best one we have,” he said.

Gauldin said he felt the Nov. 2 meeting with NCDOT representatives and council members regarding highway/traffic projects being considered for Stokesdale was very productive and insightful. As a follow-up, Gauldin said he sent a list of the fire department’s concerns about some of the proposed improvements to the town clerk, to be included with feedback the town sends to NCDOT. Sheriff’s Report. On behalf of the sheriff’s department, Town Clerk Robbie Wagoner reported the District 1 office

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responded to 168 calls for service in Stokesdale last month, resulting in 18 case reports. In his written report, Sgt. Ryan Seals noted there were multiple vehicle break-ins along Winding Hill Drive on Oct. 7, all involving unlocked cars. “Please don’t be fooled into a false sense of security because you live in a low-crime, rural area,” Seals advised residents.

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

Wagoner gave a detailed water system report, noting that 786 water bills were mailed out in October. He also welcomed Mason Winfree as the town’s new deputy clerk; Winfree’s first day of employment was Nov. 1. NCDOT’s Division 7 has extended the period for receiving public comments on proposed highway/traffic projects in Stokesdale until Nov. 30. The $3.1 million federal ARPA grant the town received from the county, to be used for water system infrastructure, must be spent by December 2026, Wagoner noted. He added that members of the Guilford County Pandemic Recovery Unit will visit the town next spring to review the improvements it has made to its water system.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Special Events. Foy said the Christmas Parade is set for Dec. 9, 2 p.m., and so far there are nine sponsors and 22 parade entries. Town Park Improvement Committee. Chair Tee Stephenson said construction of the basketball and pickleball courts in the town park is progressing, fencing with seven gates has been installed and surface material on the courts will be installed next. The committee is turning its attention to nature trails, and plans to work on marking the course through the woods around the town park. Additional field lighting, fencing and other things to make the park more functional are also under consideration.

FINANCIAL

10 NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023

Finance Officer Kim Thacker reported on balances in the town’s general fund and water enterprise

accounts, highlighting how grant funds have been spent so far and balances remaining from the grants. Foy noted that about $280,000 the town has invested in three CDARS will mature by the end of November; Thacker is confirming what interest rates the town can expect when they are renewed (rates on these CDs are currently between 2.7% and 2.96%).

CITIZEN COMMENTS

Bill Goebel, a candidate for Guilford County Board of Education (BOE), offered his account of how and why he was appointed to the BOE last April rather than Michael Logan, who the Guilford County Republican Party had nominated to represent District 3 (which includes Stokesdale and most of northwest Guilford County). Goebel resigned his seat in September and the BOE subsequently appointed Logan as the District 3 representative. “I just wanted to give you the full story. I plan to tell that story,” Goebel told the council.

OTHER BUSINESS  3  0 to grant Foy and Landreth authority to spend up to $4,500 on expenses relating to the Christmas parade, provided both agree on the expenditures.

 3  0 to contract with Price Mill

Towing to install the Christmas banners downtown, then take the banners down in January and put the current banners back up – at a total cost of $1,000.

NCDOT roadway projects. See discussion in news briefs p. 4.

 3  0 to endorse the fire depart-

ment’s concerns and recommendations, stated in an email from the department dated Nov. 9, and express gratitude to NCDOT’s commitment to further vet a roundabout at 158 and Belews Creek Road while exploring other solutions such as rumble strips and/or flashing lights that would encourage travelers coming east on 158 to slow down as they enter the town core (where speed limit decreases from 45mph to 35mph); also, request NCDOT minimize negative impact of road improvements on small

businesses and private property owners in downtown area. Water fees/fines. Landreth said he had been hearing about “water thieves” hooking up to the fire hydrants all over town and stealing water. Town attorney Chuck Winfree agreed to review existing state statutes that address the issue of tampering with water, after which the town will consider establishing a fine for stealing

gems in

water from its system. Building maintenance. Jones offered to clean underneath the covered entrance to town hall where birds and mud daubers have made nests, with Landreth’s assistance.

 3  0 to approve Jones and

Landreth providing the above service.

CITIZEN COMMENTS

Eileen Thiery congratulated Foy, Rigs-

bee and Landreth on being re-elected to a second 4-year term, and then asked if while Jones was cleaning under the town hall entrance if he would also remove the dead bugs from the light fixtures in the council chambers. “It’s just that you lose concentration. I’m counting the bugs instead of listening to you,” she said. Kathryn Bunthoff spoke of her concerns for pedestrian safety, noting it was

not on the council’s list of concerns it planned to submit to NCDOT. The council apologized for its oversight, confirmed pedestrian safety is very important, and thanked Bunthoff for speaking.  4  0 to add consideration of pedestrian safety in the entire town corridor to the comments submitted to NCDOT. Following brief council comments, the meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

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NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023 11

SUMMERFIELD town council

Nov. 14 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by CHRIS BURRITT Mayor Tim Sessoms called the monthly meeting to order, with Mayor Pro Tem Lynne Williams DeVaney and council members Jeff Davis, Janelle Robinson, Reece Walker and John Doggett present.

DE-ANNEXATION MEETING

At the urging of DeVaney and Robinson, the council scheduled a special called meeting for Saturday, Dec. 16, beginning at 8:30 a.m. The purpose is to bring new council members Jonathan Hamilton and Heath Clay up to speed on the possible de-annexation of developer David Couch’s nearly 1,000 acres and the council’s 3-2 vote last month to amend the town’s development rules to accommodate Couch’s plans for apartments and other higher density development.

The special called meeting will occur four days after the installation of Hamilton, Clay and DeVaney during the council’s regular monthly meeting on Dec. 12. DeVaney was re-elected in last week’s municipal election, while Hamilton and Clay unseated Reece Walker and Jeff Davis. Those two incumbents voted for the amendment, along with John Doggett, who wasn’t up for re-election. DeVaney voted against the amendment and has aligned with Robinson, Hamilton and Clay to revisit the council’s approach to negotiating with Couch. Town Manager Scott Whitaker sought clarification from DeVaney and Robinson on the format of the Dec. 16 special called meeting. The manager said he and at least one other staff member will

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attend, while Mayor Sessoms said he was not available that day.

ROLES, EXPECTATIONS

An effort by Robinson to arrange another meeting generated pushback from Davis and Walker, who said scheduling it should await the swearing-in of Hamilton and Clay at the Dec. 12 meeting. Robinson proposed the council bring in a representative from UNC’s School of Government to explain the roles and expectations of council members, the mayor and staff in Summerfield’s council-manager form of government. Davis said scheduling that meeting should occur later, since he and Walker won’t be on the council at that point. ‘ ‘You guys can work that out among yourselves, right?’’ he said. “No, we still need to conduct business and move forward,’’ Robinson said. “I don’t know if we should be setting agendas for future councils,’’ said Walker, who then abruptly motioned to adjourn the council’s meeting. The motion got a second, prompting Sessoms to call for a vote on adjournment. Robinson protested, saying, “It’s not fair for you to adjourn the meeting when I’m in the middle of talking about something.’’ “If I thought this was a fruitful conversation, I wouldn’t have made the motion to adjourn,’’ Walker said. “You’re not going to be here so if you want to sit there and be quiet, I’m fine with that,’’ Robinson responded. “I would like to plan a meeting.’’ After the vote to adjourn the meeting failed for lack of a second, the council agreed to schedule the meeting with the School of Government representative for Saturday, Jan. 27, during the council’s annual strategic retreat.

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12 NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023

Pond Co. to provide engineering and construction planning and administration for Bandera Farms Park. Robinson and DeVaney voted against the contract after questioning Town

Manager Scott Whitaker about estimated costs that exceeded the original budget. Pond proposed doing the work for about $595,000, exceeding the proposed budget by about $128,000, according to Whitaker. The bid was about $5,300 higher than an earlier bid by a team consisting of Destination by Design, Kimley-Horn and Sustainable Stables, according to Whitaker. “We knew that both firms were going to be over budget,’’ Whitaker said. More broadly, Robinson said she believes the nearly $3.5 million that the town has secured in grants for Bandera Farms Park is also going to fall short of actual development costs. “Are we going to move forward with a project that’s over budget or are we going to redesign it to get within budget?’’ Robinson said. “Why are we going into a project not knowing how we are going to pay for it?’’ Scaling back – or “value engineering’’ – the project may jeopardize grant funding, according to Dee Hall, the town’s financial officer. DeVaney suggested the town approach initial financial contributors to the project – the town of Oak Ridge, the city of Greensboro and Guilford County – for additional funds. Tapping Summerfield’s fund balance to cover higher-than-expected costs is an option, Hall noted.

FIRE PROTECTION UPDATE

Summerfield Fire District Chief Chris Johnson said the department ran 26 calls requiring the use of water to put out fires between Jan. 1 and Nov. 8 of this year. Seventeen of those calls occurred inside of town limits, he said (Summerfield’s fire district extends beyond the town limits, into Rockingham County). Over the 16 years he’s served as chief, Johnson said fires have claimed three lives inside of town limits. Johnson provided the tally after DeVaney said she had been questioned by some residents about Summerfield’s fire protection. The chief said he also offered the report after resident Dwayne Crawford told the council last month

that only one of 36 structure fires inside of town limits between 2015 and 2022 required Summerfield firefighters to bring in additional water. Instead, water from trucks that initially arrived at the scene was sufficient to extinguish the blazes, claimed Crawford, citing state fire marshal incident reports. During his presentation, Johnson clashed with Crawford and retired Greensboro fireman Danny Nelson, who questioned the information he provided. The battle over statistics illustrates the long-running disagreement about whether Summerfield needs to establish a municipal water system with hydrants that would initially provide water to bolster firefighting efforts. “Dry hydrants are not what we need,’’ said Johnson, referring to a method for firefighters to fill tankers from ponds and lakes. Transferring water takes firefighters away from the scene, he said. A preliminary engineering report by Freese & Nichols recommended the town initially provide water for fire protection and, as a second phase, upgrade

the system to supply drinking water. The firm proposed the town erect a 300,000-gallon water storage tank on the northern Gordon property and install 12-inch lines along Summerfield Road and N.C. 150. The council is trying to maximize use of $6.6 million in state and federal funding to develop the water system.

RISING LEGAL COSTS

 5  0 to approve the transfer

of $150,000 from the undesignated fund balance to cover higher legal fees related to paying lawyers and lobbyists in the town’s de-annexation fight, as well as costs associated with litigation related to former councilman Todd Rotruck’s efforts to keep his seat on the town council after the Guilford County Board of Elections determined four months after he was sworn into office in December 2017 that he had not established permanent residency in Summerfield. The transfer doubles to $300,000 funding for legal fees in this fiscal year’s budget, Hall noted.

TRASH, RECYCLING

 3  2 to approve the first of two

readings of an ordinance extending the town’s garbage and recycling contract with Republic Services for two years, starting Jan. 1. A second reading of the ordinance is required during the council’s meeting Dec. 12. Davis and Walker voted against approving the contract after the council discussed at-times spotty service by Republic. Efforts to negotiate garbage and recycling pickup by competitor GFL Environmental failed after the company told the town it wouldn’t have time to set up service in Summerfield by the end of the year, according to Whitaker. “At the end of the day, we have limited providers,’’ he said.

BALLFIELD LIGHTS

 5  0 to approve a donation of $21,500 to the Summerfield Recreation Association for new ballfield lights at Summerfield Elementary School.

UNMARKED GRAVES History Committee Chair Bruce Petersen reported that a ground

penetrating radar search of Hopewell Wesleyan Church’s cemetery last month discovered about 620 unmarked graves and two trenches that may contain the remains of British soldiers from the Battle of Guilford Courthouse in 1781.

PUBLIC SAFETY Summerfield Fire District. The department said firefighters responded to 154 calls in October, including 30 fire-related calls, 72 EMS-related calls and 42 other calls. Staff installed 45 child safety seats. Sheriff’s Office. The District 1 office responded to 283 calls for service in Summerfield last month, resulting in 19 formal case reports. On Oct. 28, deputies responded to a call reporting the discharge of firearms and a break-in on Scalesville Road, the result of an ongoing dispute between two parties. A 55-yearold suspect was arrested. Officers are investigating the Oct. 30 breaking and entering of a vehicle in the parking lot of Summerfield Community Center. A cell phone and credit cards were stolen, possible by “a known subject and not a random act,’’ the office said. The meeting adjourned at 9:58 p.m.

Saturday, November 18, 5:30pm

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z Holiday stores | Summerfield Peace United Methodist

calendar

Church is hosting a Dewey’s Bakery holiday store Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Tire Max, 4420 U.S. 220 N in Summerfield. Moravia Moravian Church in Oak Ridge is hosting a holiday store Monday thru Thursday, noon to 6 p.m.; Friday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m., in the Oak Ridge Room, next to Bistro 150 in Oak Ridge Commons. To see the selection of items for sale, visit www.deweysbakerypartner.com.

z Stokesdale Christmas parade | Sign up now to spon-

sor or register your parade entry for the Stokesdale Christmas parade on Saturday, Dec. 9, starting at 2 p.m. Sponsorship deadline is Nov. 20; parade entry deadline is Dec. 1. Visit www.stokesdale.org for parade entry forms and event details. More info: (336) 643-4011. See display ad on p. 17.

SATURDAY, NOV. 18

DEADLINE DEC. 16

z Good Samaritan Ministries’ Angel Tree | The angel

tree is now up at Fidelity Bank, 8110 U.S. 158 in Stokesdale. “Angels” – Christmas gift wish lists for children in need — may be picked up Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can also contact Terri Johnson, GSM Angel Tree coordinator, at (336) 643-5887 or terrij1957@yahoo.com, for a child’s or sibling group’s wish list. Unwrapped gifts, labeled with the children’s corresponding angel number and letter, should be dropped off at Terri Johnson’s home in Stokesdale by Dec. 16.

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z Food pantry | Good Samaritan Ministries’ food pantry in Stokesdale will open for those in need of food on Nov. 18, 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Stokesdale Business Center, 8500 Ellisboro Road. For assistance or to donate to the ministry, contact Terri Johnson, (336) 643-5887 or terrij1957@yahoo.com. z Stew sale | Stokesdale Fire Department, 8401 U.S. 158 in downtown Stokesdale, will hold its annual stew sale Nov. 18, from noon until sold out. Cost is $10 per quart. Drive-thru service only; no pre-orders. z Summerfield Christmas tree lighting | Town of Summerfield will host its annual Christmas tree lighting Nov. 18, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Summerfield Athletic Park, 5200 U.S. 220 N in Summerfield. Greensboro Performing Arts members will sing carols, Bella Ballerina dancers

will perform, and there will be light food and drinks, s’mores by a bonfire and a visit with Santa. Attendees are encouraged to bring food items for Guilford Backpack Ministry; visit www.summerfieldnc.gov for a list of items needed. More info: Cheryl Gore, (336) 643-8655 or cgore@summerfieldnc.gov. See display ad on p. 13.

SUNDAY, NOV. 19

z Thanksgiving meal | Gideon Grove UM Church at 2865 Gideon Grove Church Road in Stokesdale will host a free community Thanksgiving meal Nov. 19, starting at 5 p.m. Visit www.facebook.com/gideongroveumc to learn more.

TUESDAY, NOV. 21

z Kiwanis Club | Kiwanis Club of Northwest Guilford will meet Nov. 21, starting at 12 noon at Bill’s Pizza, 1431 N.C. 68 in Oak Ridge. More info: nwgkiwanis@gmail.com. z Northwest Guilford VFW | Northwest Guilford VFW invites veterans to join VFW Post #7999 for its monthly meeting Nov. 21, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Summerfield Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road. More info: Andy Schlosser, (336) 456-2199, or Rick Dunlap, (336) 601-0941.

MONDAY, NOV. 27

z Lions Club | Oak Ridge Lions Club will meet Nov. 27 in the back dining area of Bistro 150 in Oak Ridge Commons shopping center, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. More info: Jim Kinneman, (336) 207-7166 or james.kinneman@gmail.com.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

The Town of Stokesdale’s Events Committee proudly presents

2023 Stokesdale Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec. 9, 2 pm

SPONSORSHIPS NEEDED: Our

sponsors play a critical role in making this such a successful annual event.

PARADE ENTRIES NEEDED: Our

participants are what make our parade great! Local organizations and businesses as well as family and friend groups are encouraged to join. Get creative! Entry forms are available on the town’s website, www.stokesdale.org, under Events.

Deadline for entry is Dec. 1. Please secure your spot early.

For more information on sponsorships and parade entries, contact Town Hall at deputyclerk@stokesdale.org or 336.643.4011

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behind it, as well as the thanks from ministry partners overseas that are using the proceeds from our sales to further their ministry. Are you involved with any professional organizations or nonprofits? Triplo supports five ministries located in Haiti, Honduras, India, Nepal and South Africa. I personally help consult multiple nonprofits here in the US to help them maximize their impact and mission. On a personal note… I grew up in in Pleasant Garden, went to college at Liberty University before moving back to Summerfield and now Oak Ridge with my family. My family all helps in some way with the business. And I’m fortunate to have talented people in the areas that are not my specialty. How do you spend your downtime? I work out at SNAP fitness every morning, enjoy pickleball and then spend time with my family. What’s something about you a lot of people wouldn’t know? I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to 12 different countries to visit Christian ministry partners who are doing great work for the Gospel.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Veterans Day in Stokesdale Veterans from all branches of the armed services gathered for a photo after the Veterans Day ceremony at the Stokesdale Veterans Monument on Saturday, Nov. 11. The annual ceremony is organized by the Stokesdale Veterans Monument Committee, which was formed in January 2005 by four women who were members of Stokesdale United Methodist Church. After the women set their sights on building a veterans memorial, they raised $50,000 within three months, and the memorial which stands at the front entrance to Vulcan Materials Company on U.S. 158 was completed later than year. Veterans Monument Committee member Barbara Marshall, 81, is the only living member from the original committee of four women, and remains an active committee volunteer.

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

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Thanks to Elaine Thomas (far left), owner of Yoga Lane, and Gina and John Childress, owners of Golden Antiques & Treasures, for co-hosting our Nov. 6 meeting!

SMA is a proud sponsor of the Summerfield Christmas Tree Lighting on Saturday, Nov. 18, at Summerfield Athletic Park, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Our members will be helping serve refreshments and also collecting food donations for Guilford Backpack Ministry. Hope to see you there!

Open weekends in December: Dec. 2 & 3, 9 & 10, 16 & 17 | 10am-5pm 4358 Ellisboro Rd., Stokedale, NC 27357 | 336-707-6652 facebook.com/galvanized.nc

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023 19

2 5 YE

ARS AT A GLANCE

1998-2023

1998

Official incorporation of Oak Ridge

1998

Appointment of first Mayor & Town Council

1999

First Oak Ridge Town Council election

2001

2000

U.S. Post Office on Linville Rd. opens

Planning & Zoning Board formed

2002

Oak Ridge Commons opened

2004

2007

Preservation Oak Ridge formed

Oak Ridge Town Hall & Town Park dedicated

2006

Parks & Recreation Commission formed

2005

Historic Preservation Commission formed

2008

Oak Ridge Town Park opens

Did you know?

2008

Total length of trails in Oak Ridge, including Cascades Preserve: 8.5 miles

First RidgeFest

2009

Total length of sidewalks in Oak Ridge: 7.9 miles

Oak Ridge Extra Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) approved by state

2012

Annexed 130-acre Cascades Preserve

What’s in the Historic District?

2014

100th anniversary of Linville Chapel & Alumni Hall at Oak Ridge Military Academy

2013

Oak Ridge Pedestrian Plan completed

2012

First Canine Capers event

2005

Oak Ridge Elementary expansion completed

Merchants of Oak Ridge formed

C P

Fi D

• More than 50 historic sites on 400+ acres • 37 historic buildings, including two National Register sites & the ORMA National Historic District

2014

Added dog park & bike trails to Town Park

• 16 tracts of open land, including our Town Park

2014

20 anniversary of Oak Ridge Historic District th

2014

First Music in the Park series

T Am c

2008

2018

Celebrated 10th Anniversary

Celebrated 20th Anniversary

NORTH CAROLINA

2017

Oak Ridge designated as Tree City

2017

First Explore Historic Oak Ridge celebration

Grand Opening of Heritage Farm Park

250th anniversary of Old Mill

2024

2016

irst Heritage Day event

2015

First Light Up the Night luminary event

Conservation Easement Committee formed

2022

Town approved as municipal water provider by state

2022

Headwaters Trail opens

2019

Streetscape Vision Plan completed

2018

Mountains-to-Sea Trail & Special Events Committees formed

Population growth over the years

1998 2,548 2008 4,849 2000 3,988 2010 6,185 2002 4,103 2014 6,927 2007 4,758 2018 7,535 2022 7,979

2023

Begin construction of Heritage Farm Park, located on 61 acres in town center

1998

2023

2016

Town Park mphitheater completed

2021

2017

Cascades Preserve opened

2023

200th anniversary of Chas. Benbow House

Thanksgiving is a perfect time to express my appreciation for your business. Your friendship and goodwill mean so much to me. Thank you and have a joyful holiday!

Nicole E. Gillespie SPS, REALTOR®/Broker RE/MAX Realty Consultants

Thank you to Nicole Gillespie for sponsoring this issue’s Kids’ Korner

r e n r o K ’ s Kid

Can you find the

differences?

Adobe Stock photo

Economists predicted mortgage rates would gradually decline throughout 2023, but that forecast hasn’t come true. In fact, rates trended higher during the first three quarters of 2023, reaching a new peak of 7.88% on Nov. 14. The rising mortgage rates, coupled with a tight supply of houses, have slowed home sales in northwest Guilford County and throughout the country. Industry experts predict falling rates next year may ease – but not erase – the squeeze.

28 A ‘stutter’ for northwest Guilford’s housing market Relief from rising rates may be on the way, but housing pressures won’t disappear, according to local Realtors and builders

24 Real Estate/Business Briefs All clear for Wilson’s Grocery to reopen, after all Property owner seeks conditional business rezoning

celebrates 26 ORPT 15th anniversary

cream flavors are 26 Ice national award winners

REAL ESTATE/BUSINESS briefs

All clear for Wilson’s Grocery to reopen, after all

(336) 345-3263 | Ray@RayBullinsConstruction.com

raybullinsconstruction.com

The town of Summerfield reverses its determination that the store was “nonconforming” with watershed regulations Mitch Bullins (center) with his parents, Lisa and Ray Bullins, at Ray Bullins Construction Co., Inc.

by CHRIS BURRITT SUMMERFIELD – Jitendra Oza, the owner of the closed Wilson’s Grocery store, recently got good news from the town of Summerfield.

We do the homework that sells homes Jason Smith: (336) 451-4921 Tonya Gilbert: (336) 215-7138

smithmarketinginc.com

Home, Sweet Home

Planning Manager Brad Rentz advised Oza in a Nov. 2 letter that the town’s unified development ordinance (UDO) does not prevent the reopening of the store at Carlson Dairy and Pleasant Ridge roads. That’s a reversal from two weeks earlier when Rentz, citing the UDO, told Oza the property’s location in the Watershed Critical Area of Lake Higgins created a “nonconforming use” for the convenience store selling gasoline. Since buying the property in June, Oza has been renovating the store. The Nov. 2-15 issue of the Northwest Observer reported Rentz’s initial determination that reopening of the store was in jeopardy, leaving Oza

with the option to appeal to the town’s Board of Adjustment. The reversal occurred after Oza’s lawyer shared with Rentz his client’s recollection of a conversation with Pam Fox, a daughter of the store’s owner, Harold “Shorty” Wilson. After Wilson died in August 2022, Fox handled the estate’s affairs, including initial efforts to sell the 1-acre tract with the landmark store. According to his lawyer, Oza understood from Fox that the store had “gotten variances” from town regulations in years past. Based on that information, Rentz said he “started digging deeper” into town records and found what he was looking for in the minutes of the Town Council’s meeting in June 2006. According to the minutes, the council voted unanimously to adopt a “minor watershed modification” on the property, as requested by Wilson. As a result, Rentz told Oza in the letter earlier this month, that “the use of the property as a convenience store with gas sales is a permitted use since the Watershed Critical Area overlay was removed with this decision in 2006.”

Property owner seeks conditional business rezoning by CHRIS BURRITT walravensignaturehomes.com (336) 442-8657 (Matt Walraven) (336) 207-7790 (office) Like us on Facebook

24 NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023

SUMMERFIELD – Property owner Matt Cross is seeking the rezoning of two parcels on Addison Drive consisting of 1.22 acres, from single-family residential (RS-30) to conditional zoning business district (CZ-BN). The adjacent tracts at 7508 and 7602 Addison Drive abut the highway easement on the western side of

U.S. 220. Planning documents posted on Summerfield’s website show the rendering of a building that resembles a garage with two large doors. Cross didn’t reply to a request for comments about his plans. The vacant property is located across Addison Drive from a neighborhood of older houses between Myers Fork and

...continued on p. 33

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Oak Ridge Physical Therapy recently celebrated its 15th anniversary at its clinic in Oak Ridge Commons shopping center in Oak Ridge. Over 100 patients, doctors, staff, friends and family members attended the celebration and enjoyed live music, a photo booth, food, cake, giveaways, T-shirts and fun! “Together, we celebrated our three clinics, 22 staff members, a new clinic

opening in January 2024 and thankfulness for these blessings!” ORPT owner Andy Michels said. Besides a fourth clinic on the horizon next year, ORTP’s growing customer base in and surrounding the Oak Ridge area led to a recently completed expansion of its Oak Ridge clinic into the adjacent 1,200-square-foot space formerly occupied by a dry cleaner.

Flavors are national award winners “Full Moon Vanilla” and “New Moon Chocolate” ice cream flavors are now national award winners, with both receiving red ribbons at the recent North American Ice Cream Association’s annual ConeCon event held in Las Vegas, Nevada. Back in August, To the Moon and Back Frozen Treats owners Brian and Cheryl Albrecht submitted the two popular flavors for consideration by a panel of Cornell University judges trained in various aspects of tasting. “It was an honor to be considered among other owner/operators of some of the country’s best ice creams,” Cheryl said. This was only the second year the Albrechts attended the national ice cream conference, and the first year they entered any of their ice cream flavors. To the Moon and Back started in 2017 with only a landscape trailer and freezer on wheels which was taken to local venues to sell Italian ice flavors. Over the past several years the Albrechts

Photo courtesy of To the Moon and Back Frozen Treats

Custom home ready for YOU!

Photo courtesy of Oak Ridge Physical Therapy

ORPT celebrates 15th anniversary

have grown their business and besides their mobile frozen treat truck which they set up at local events, they now also operate out of retail space behind the Quality Mart gas station and convenience store in Oak Ridge. Last year the couple expanded their brick-and-mortar frozen treat shop to offer rental space for birthday parties and other celebrations. The Albrechts credit the growth of their business to “our great customers’ love and support of our product and local offerings, and our dedicated staff that helps customers love it ‘to the Moon and back.’”

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A ‘stutter’ for northwest Guilford’s housing market Over the past year, rising mortgage rates and a tight supply of houses have weighed on sales. Falling rates next year may ease – but not erase – the squeeze by CHRIS BURRITT NW GUILFORD – The housing market in northwest Guilford County is limping toward the end of 2023, hampered by persistently high mortgage rates and a shortage of houses on the market.

The number of houses that sold in Oak Ridge, Summerfield and Stokesdale dropped in the third quarter from a year earlier, according to statistics from the Triad Multiple Listing Service (MLS). And for owners who sold their homes, the wait to find a buyer took longer.

Adobe Stock image

Economists predicted mortgage rates would trend downward in 2023, but their forecasts didn’t hold true. Average mortgage rates peaked at 7.88% on Nov. 14, with predictions they will decline next year to around 6%.

“Sales-wise, we're definitely seeing a stutter in the market,’’ said Betty Smith, president of Smith Marketing, an Allen Tate affiliate in Summerfield. “Houses are spending more days on the market.’’

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28 NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023

In Oak Ridge and Summerfield, 80 houses sold in the third quarter through Sept. 30, according to the Greensboro Regional Realtors Association (GRRA), citing MLS figures. That reflected a 25.2% decline from 107 houses sold a year earlier. The number of houses sold in Stokesdale during the third quarter slipped 16%, from 50 to 42. Houses in Oak Ridge and Summerfield took an average of 29 days to sell in the third quarter, more than double the average of 13 days a year earlier, GRRA reported. In Stokesdale, the number of days houses stayed on the market jumped more than 300%, from 15 days to 61 days. Some sellers who’ve listed their houses this year “are reaching a little high’’ with prices that buyers aren’t willing to pay, said Smith, explaining one reason that homes are staying on the market longer. Relief from rising rates may be on the way. However, if economic

forecasts hold and rates decline next year, housing pressures may ease, but won’t disappear, according to Realtors and builders. They predicted home prices are continuing to climb – good for sellers, but hurting prospective buyers who can’t qualify with higher interest rates for houses selling for $500,000 and more in northwest Guilford. The average sales price of houses in Oak Ridge and Summerfield increased 6.1%, from $598,288 to $634,506 in the third quarter, GRRA reported. In Stokesdale, prices rose even more sharply, jumping 11.4% percent from $422,202 to $470,342.

“Somebody who could buy a $500,000 house when the rates were down is now buying a $400,000 house,’’ said Don Mills, who owns Don Mills Builders with his wife, Annette. “For those people, lower rates would make all the difference in the world.’’

Mills said all six houses that he’s got under construction will sell for more than $1 million, reflecting rising costs for land, materials and labor. Mills and other custom builders are also responding to demand for expensive houses in northwest Guilford County, where some buyers have cash to spend and are less deterred by rising rates. Higher rates have definitely tightened up the market, but in northwest Guilford buyers of higher-end housing are a lot less rate-sensitive,’’ said Casey Johnson, who owns Stokesdalebased CJ Builders. Some buyers have concluded that housing costs will continue to rise, so they’d prefer to buy now with the prospect of refinancing their mortgages if rates fall, Johnson and Mills noted. “Most everybody's getting adjustable rate mortgages right now and, I assume, waiting for rates to come down to refinance,’’ Mills said. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate topped 7% in August and climbed to 7.49% during the first week of October, a level not seen since December 2000, according to Freddie Mac, the government-sponsored mortgage company. Since then, rates have fluctuated, with economists predicting they may start declining next year. As of this past Tuesday, Nov. 14, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage was 7.88%, according to Bankrate, a ratecomparison firm which conducts a weekly national survey of large lenders. U.S. inflation slowed in October, as the so-called core CPI (consumer price index), which excludes food and energy costs, increased just 0.2% from September, according to government figures. Released earlier this week, the data bolsters prospects that the Federal Reserve may stop raising interest rates to tame inflation, according to Bloomberg News. “Expectations have swung back toward slower economic growth and lower inflation,” Greg McBride,

Bankrate’s chief financial analyst, said in a statement last month. “All of this should help… mortgage rates track lower.”

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However, even if rates dip as low as 6%, that would still be twice as high as rates of 2-3% that buyers secured in recent years. As a result, some homeowners may decide to stay put rather than buy new homes – a pattern that contributes to the lack of housing available for sale, real estate agents said.

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“Everybody seems to be predicting that rates could get down to 6%,’’ said Jason Smith, senior vice president of Smith Marketing. He and his brother, Jeff, own the Summerfield real estate company with their mother, Betty. “If rates hit 6%, I think you'll probably see a little bit of a buying frenzy by people trying to catch the dip in case they ride back up,’’ Smith said. Like some other Realtors and builders, he cautioned that rates aren’t likely to sink to historic lows of the pandemic era.

“We’ve got to get used to a new norm industry wide,’’ Smith said. “Buyers did a great job getting in at 2-3%, but now that day is gone. I’m not going to say never because I don’t know, but we’re probably not going to see 2-3% again.’’ Oak Ridge Realtor Tim Atkins said he’s telling prospective buyers that it’s “a good time to buy because interest rates are probably not going to come down that low ever again. If you wait on the rates to go down, the prices of homes keep going up, and you have all that wasted time you could be investing in equity.”

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Happy

Thanksgiving Tracy Williams, attorney

from

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Trust Administration • Corporate Work • Real Estate Matters Atkins said he’s added several new listings recently, suggesting that some owners are heeding advice from him and other Realtors that now is the time Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023 29 to make aThe move.

Feast, Floss and Be Thankful Healthy Smiles. Happy Patients.

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Photo courtesy of Kevin Tar

 L to R: (back row, against wall) veterans Rick Dunlap, Melvin Moore and Andy Schlosser, and (far right) veterans Steve Nash, K Ben and Bob Charboneau were joined by Scouts and Scoutmasters from Troop 103 and Pack 103 at Northwest Guilford VFW Post 7999’s annual Veterans Day ceremony held at Summerfield Community Center on Nov. 5; the ceremony was co-hosted by Summerfield’s History Committee.  Kindergartner Faith Ann Hopper proudly holds an American flag at a Veterans Day ceremony held at Revolution Academy in Summerfield on Thursday, Nov. 9. Courtesy photo

30 NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

GRINS and GRIPES

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

words or less

email: grinsandgripes@nwobserver.com

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

Coach Lochrie at Bethany Community School for an amazing soccer season and creating a soccer team that is like a family. Well done! Sonya of Oak Ridge for her Halloween costume as a grinner and griper (sports bra, shorts and leaf blower). It was absolutely hilarious! Thanks for keeping this joke alive! Joey’s Burger Bar. The food is amazing and the staff is wonderful. We have had great service the few times we have been. It’s so nice to have this addition to Oak Ridge. Keep it up, Joey!

The sweet lady in the checkout line at the Food Lion on N.C. 68, who gave my three boys $10 to buy candy. Thank you for being so generous and saying they were well behaved! All the hardworking guys who maintain Oak Ridge Park. But… please don’t forget to unlock the toilets, like you did today (Nov. 9). C’mon lads, I’ve got a 60-year-old bladder. When I’m full of tea, I need to pee! Stokesdale Elementary School for the parade through the hallway honoring veterans. Smiles all around and kids learning about patriotism. Parents who enable their adult children to leave the nest, venture out into the world and make it on their own.

Job well done! The awesome Summerfield Fire Dept. firefighters who worked late on Wednesday, Nov. 8. Our car overheated so we had to pull into the fire station, and they helped us figure out what was wrong with it! Stokesdale Elementary for the Veterans Day parade! Our son was so excited to honor and cheer for his Grandpa and all the other veterans as they walked the school halls. Everyone who put their Christmas decorations up early this year! I think it’s great – the season is too short as it is, and I will be joining you soon! The two caring women and Oak Ridge Parks and Recreation Department employee who stayed and helped my teenager after her accident by the post office the other day. Nice to know there are kind people willing to help. Magnolia Shores Dental in Summerfield! Dr. Parry, you are amazing! Thank you for being one who truly cares about new patients. I found my dentist, and you are very much appreciated!

who always make our Veterans Day service at the Stokesdale Veterans Monument a huge success. We couldn’t do it without your help and support, and we give you our immeasurable thanks! Guilford County Board of Elections for putting Linda Wendelken’s last name on the ballot. Mystery has been solved! I still wonder, though, why she didn’t want her last name out in the public sphere – maybe because she’s married to “the Don?”

The griper complaining about Wendy’s not having coffee on a Monday morning. Who gets their coffee at a Wendy’s? LOL The people throwing out their fastfood bags and cups, etc., on Pearman Quarry Road. Keep your trash to yourself and keep our town clean! The women dressing immodestly while doing yard work. A woman/girl should dress so as not to present themselves as a lust object. Man has a fallen

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...continued on p. 32

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nature and perverts will be watching. Dress to be safe, not to attract attention. Newly elected Summerfield Town Council members who had lots of criticism of incumbents with no solution that won’t lead to lawsuits and wasted tax dollars. The person who removed the McClellan sign from our lawn three times. Our hunting camera has clear images of you! Your choice: write a letter in the NWO apologizing / identifying yourself to the community or we press charges for trespassing / misdemeanor. Summerfield BOA for upholding a complaint and citation of a suspected business being operated in a residential neighborhood. And for the second item on the agenda that night, approved a variance for business in a residential neighborhood. HOAs that do not enforce the rules against boarding houses.

THis news makes us jump with excitement!

Pepper Ridge HOA for neglecting buildings on the historic Mabe farm, to the point where they are falling down. This is part of Oak Ridge’s history and it is your responsibility to take care of it. Do your job. Article on the Northwest Observer’s Nov 2-15, 2023 issue’s front page regarding Walker running for 6th District seat after redistricting… Lee Haywood ran against Kathy Manning in 2020, not Mark Walker. Editor’s note: Yes, this mistake set a 27-year record for the number of people who called, emailed, sent me angry texts

Revolution Academy High School Opening Fall of 2024 Apply online now for grades K-9 revolutionacademyk8.com 32 NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023

and now, submitted a gripe about it – and as we have many times in the last two weeks, we deeply, deeply apologize for the egregious error and for how upsetting it was to so many people. We posted a correction on our Facebook page as soon as the error was brought to our attention, corrected the article on our website, have a correction in this issue (page 2), and spoke with Mark Walker to offer our apologies (which he graciously accepted). We are human, we pride ourselves on getting it right … but sometimes we make stupid mistakes and besides taking as many steps as possible to correct them once they’re in print, we don’t know what else to do other than ask for your forgiveness. – Patti Stokes, patti@nwobserver.com One Oak Ridge Town Council candidate’s personal attacks / false information about fellow candidates on social media. And then, encouraging other citizens to continue the attacks. What a great role model for the cadets at our great academy. Embarrassing for our town! Our (Oak Ridge) neighborhood’s newest resident. Please mow your yard – it is an embarrassment to our beautiful neighborhood, which is not a farm! The person complaining about Stokesdale Parks & Recreation Association being unorganized for Trunk or Treat. No one was hurt and there were traffic helpers working to ensure traffic was still able to flow. Next year, wear a helmet. The two females with Bear Creek HOA on Nov. 7 (Election Day)

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olmstedorthodontics.com We are OPEN and accepting new patients distributing political flyers to drivers in the ORES car-rider line on Rosedale Drive. You caused a 20+-minute delay getting my student to school! Summerfield resident here and an 8-year-old can’t vote!

Those who tailgate on Pleasant Ridge Road when the speed limit goes down. It’s a short strip and it is not worth getting right up behind someone just to save a few seconds. It’s not called un-Pleasant Ridge!

The vile behavior on Nextdoor.com during this election cycle. The Oak Ridge candidates that you all said terrible things about have family who love them dearly and have to read that. You all should be ashamed!

Mike Stone and Mike Greeson for shamelessly obstructing the ORE car-rider line on Election Day to hand out political flyers filled with fear tactics and misinformation. Have some respect for the election and campaign at the polls.

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PROPERTY OWNER ...continued from p. 24 Rhondan roads. The area is located behind the Summerfield Fire District’s station No. 9 on Summerfield Road. The town invites residents to attend an informational meeting about the rezoning request at Summerfield Community Center at 5:30 p.m. this coming Monday, Nov. 20. The Planning Board plans to make a rezoning recommendation during its Nov. 27 meeting. Then during its Dec. 12 meeting, the Town Council will consider whether to approve the request. Public hearings during both meetings will allow residents to express their views.

Earlier, the town’s Board of Adjustment granted Cross a variance from the minimum lot size of 60,000 square feet required in the Neighborhood Business zoning district. Guilford County’s GIS and the remnant property data base of NCDOT showed the tracts were larger than 60,000 square feet, according to Cross’s variance application. In reality, the application said, the tracts are smaller than 60,000 square feet. That’s based upon a GIS update showing that NCDOT actually owns a wider easement, thus reducing the size of the lots.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023 33

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INDEX Auto Sales / Services ........ 34 Employment .................... 34 Event / Save the Date....... 34 Homecare Available......... 34

EMPLOYMENT OAK RIDGE PHYSICAL THERAPY. Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA). Full-time. NC licensed PTA. Outpatient orthopaedic, sports, and balance patients. Background criminal, drug & financial check will be done. Mail resume to: PO Box 875, Oak Ridge, NC 27310. NORTHWEST BAPTIST DAY CARE is seeking to hire an experienced childcare teacher. This is a full-time position, M-F, 9:30am-6pm. Position requires fun, loving, caring, nurturing individual. Please contact NWBDaycare @ (336) 393-0530.

Yard Sale......................... 34 Home Services ........... 34-37 EVENT / SAVE THE DATE Misc. Services .................. 37 Misc. for Sale .................. 37 Misc. Wanted .................. 37 Real Estate ...................... 37

STOKESDALE COMMUNITY CHOIR presents a free Christmas concert on Saturday, December 2, at 11am, Gideon Grove UMC, 2865 Gideon Grove Church. Rd., Stokesdale. Pre-concert music at 10:30am.

•

• • •

WE ARE HIRING

PetroserveNC specializes in turnkey retail fueling system design, above and below ground tanks, fleet fueling, environmental testing, and petroleum dispenser installation and repair. We are seeking friendly, energetic, and hardworking associates to become part of the team! Positions include qualified installers, heavy equipment operators, CDL drivers, and petroleum technicians. 4-day work week Full benefits offered plus 401(k) and profit sharing Competitive compensation package

APPLY TODAY

to join the Petroserve family!

Call 336.714.5162 or visit petroservenc.com Located at 7039 Ellison Road, Stokesdale

34 NOV. NOV. - 29, 6, 2023 Observer • Observer Totally local since 1996 1616 - DEC. 2023 The Northwest The Northwest • Totally local since 1996

HOME SERVICES

CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING Gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. windowcleaningnc.com. (336) 595-2873.

GENERAL HANDYMAN. Repairs, installations, assemblies, etc. Light electrical and plumbing. Yard work and power washing. Insured. No job too small. Give Gordon a call, (336) 253-7700.

H&L GRADING, LLC. No job too tough or too small. Call us first! We are a full-service grading company that specializes in residential projects. Owner/Operator Timmy Hart has more than 30 years of grading and equipment experience. Fully licensed and insured. Land clearing, debris removal, driveways, French drains, portable sawmill and much more. We also do custom rough-cut lumber. Call owner/operator Bobby Lipstreu, (336) 543-7867.

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

CHRISTIAN MOM needs work cleaning houses, running errands. Quality cleaning/ budget friendly. Pet sitting also avail. References. Call Laura Bennett, (336) 231-1838.

DECORATING 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 Do you have ELECTRICAL NEEDS? It's portable generator season. Call Coble Electric, LLC at (336) 209-1486. BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC. Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192.

FLOORING / TILE

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. LOW-COST GARAGE DOORS. Repair and sales. 35 years exp. (336) 207-1003. CLOCK SERVICE. Free house calls for sick clocks. 8103 Windspray Dr., Summerfield. (336) 643-9931.

“No Job Too Small” Wood Rot Repairs on door jambs & window sills Bathroom Remodeling • Decks and much more! • Insured

(336) 669-7252

oldschoolsjhr@triad.rr.com

L & T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE. “We get you mowing!” Comm./res., all models. Oak Ridge, NC. Please call (336) 298-4314. Ltsmeng16@gmail.com.

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

GRADING / HAULING

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

E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Driveways, fill dirt, demolition, lot clearing, excavating, bobcat work, etc. (336) 451-1282.

HOME REPAIR Why move when you can improve?

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

handyman ● construction well pumps ● plumbing ● foundations sagging floors...and much more!

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

licensed general contractors

The Northwest Observer

One call fixes all! (336) 643-1184 Place your classified ad online at

www.nwobserver.com

GUTTERS / SIDING / WINDOWS

WILSON

Seamless Gutters

Installation, repair, replacement, Leaf Guard

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

AFFORDABLE

GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, fill dirt, gravel, etc. (336) 362-1150.

Sharing news of your community since 1996!

Stokesdale

336-420-0200 S&M

AQUA SYSTEMS IRRIGATION. Quality irrigation systems. NC licensed contractor. We service all systems. Free est. (336) 644-1174. GOSSETT'S LAWNCARE. Complete lawn care/maintenance. Res./comm. Fully insured. In business for 33 yrs. (336) 451-5216. DSL DRAIN SYSTEMS & LANDSCAPING. (336) 362-4354. INTEGRITY TREE SERVICE, LLC. Tree removal, risk assessment, tree pruning, dead wood removal. Affordable/competitive pricing. Fully insured. Owner-operated. Call for free estimate, (336) 210-8310. HILL LAWNCARE & OUTDOOR SERVICES. Free estimates. Call (336) 669-5448. WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Lawn maint., landscaping. Irrigation/landscape contractor. Hardscaping & landscape lighting. 26 years exp. (336) 399-7764. MEDLIN'S LANDSCAPING. Res./comm. lawn service. Fully insured. Call/text (336) 817-3036.

SEAMLESS GUTTERS

ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. (336) 643-9157.

Call for a FREE estimate

DILLON TREE SERVICE. Certified arborists. BBB accredited. Fully insured. Familyowned. Tree removal and trimming. Available for emergency removals 24/7. Free estimates. (336) 996-6156. www.dillontreeservice.com. info@dillontreeservice.com.

install new gutters repair and clean old gutters FULLY INSURED

336.587.8223 | 336.709.5944

LAWNCARE / LANDSCAPING STEVE NEWMAN, TREE EXPERT. FREE EST. 40+ yrs. exp. Fully insured. Any phase of tree work. Natural area thinning and cleanup. Oak Ridge. (336) 643-1119 or (336) 253-9615. STRAIGHT EDGE LAWN CARE. Free estimates. Please call (336) 306-0274. R C LAWN CARE. Res./comm. lawn service. Fully insured. Call/text (336) 231-9599.

CM STUMP GRINDING, LLC. Family owned and operated. Commercial/residential. Free quotes! (336) 317-4600. SOUTHERN CUTZ LAWN CARE. Offering complete lawn maintenance services, landscaping, bush hogging, privacy fence installation/repair/staining, and stump grinding. Nathan Adkins, (336) 430-6086.

continued on p. 36

TheObserver Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 NOV. NOV. - 29, 6, 2023 The Northwest • Totally local since 1996 16 16 - DEC. 2023 35

HOME SERVICES

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

HOME SUPPORT SERVICES PROVIDER. Oak Ridge and surrounding area. Will run errands and do light housekeeping. M,W,F. Call (336) 707-4946; ask for Katrena.

PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 40 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. Average BDRM walls $100. Insured. Call Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186.

PRESSURE WASHING

JUNK & DEBRIS REMOVAL, construction, remodeling, and general cleanup, outbuildings, garages, basements, yard waste, etc. Also can haul mulch. Call (336) 706-8470.

LAWSON'S PAINTING. Custom decks, pressure washing, boat docks, block fill, wood repair, stain work, textured ceilings, sheetrock repair. Call (336) 253-9089.

PAINTING & DRYWALL

Your HOME SERVICES

MASONRY NEW PHASE CONCRETE. Here for all your decorative concrete needs. Specializing in decorative stamp, stained, epoxy and all other concrete poured finishes as well. Also offering refurbishment of existing stamped concrete. Make your existing stamped look like new again! (336) 399-1474 or (336) 595-4654. COLONIAL MASONRY. 40 yrs. exp. Specializing in outdoor living spaces; dry-stack natural stone and flagstone. Let us help you plan your patio, fire pit, fireplace, kitchen – or anything else you would like! Call (336) 949-9019. www.colonialmasonry.com.

MISC. HOME SERVICES/PRODUCTS

Phil Barker’s

Refinishing Furniture Refinishing & Repairs Colored lacquering on furniture

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

(336) 931-0600

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

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

company should be here!

Place your classified ad online at

www.nwobserver.com PLUMBING BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR. No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic./ Ins. Cleanliness in your home is our #1 priority. Call Mark, (336) 337-7924. 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.

1316 Headquarters Dr., Greensboro, NC

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, dock work, siding, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Senior discount. 44 years exp. (336) 362-6343 or (336) 215-6122. KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION, LLC. N.C. general contractor with 30 years experience. Specializing in new homes, room additions, kitchens & baths, garages, decks, vinyl siding and windows, painting, tile, laminate and vinyl plank, and remodeling of all kinds. Quality for the right price. Free est. Please call (336) 362-7469.

Services TM Construction , INC

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Licensed & insured NC Gen. Contractor #72797

PEARMAN QUARRY LCID. Inert debris landfill. Yard waste, concrete, etc. Mulch and fill dirt available. (336) 803-2195 or (336) 558-7673.

AFFORDABLE HOME REPAIRS. One call fixes all! A+ with BBB. For a free estimate call (336) 643-1184 or (336) 987-0350.

Locally Owned and Independently Operated Franchise

IT’S YOUR HOME.

Certiﬁed Mold Inspections Certiﬁed Mold Remediation

Not just any handyman will do.

Crawl Space Vapor Barriers Crawl Space Cleaning Insulation/Foam Board Sealing

locally based in Stokesdale ● (336) 937-4983 northstarmoisture@gmail.com www.northstarmoisture.com

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

(336) 644-8615 office (336) 508-5242 cell

Philbarkersrefinishing@gmail.com

Basement Moisture Issues

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

Screened porches | Sunrooms | Eze-Breeze®

(336) 275-5056

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

HOUSE and ROOF SOFT WASHING. Martin's Pressure Washing. (919) 931-0856.

336-245-4485

36 NOV. NOV. - 29, 6, 2023 Observer •Observer Totally local since 1996 36 1616 - DEC. 2023 The Northwest The Northwest • Totally local since 1996

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.

ROOFING BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Lifetime shingle and metal roofing. Free estimates. Since 1979. (336) 362-6343 or (336) 215-6122.

HOME SERVICES

Not all roof damage is this obvious

Call today for a FREE inspection

MISC. FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE

CARGO solid wood bunk bed set. Two beds with mattresses, pullout underbed drawer, ladder, nightstand, 6-drawer chest, and desk with light and padded chair. Excellent for child’s room, apartment or college. Must see. $600 firm. Cash only. Call (919) 497-6764. Stokesdale.

HOME FOR SALE

(336) 310-4133

Peaceful, country setting Tranquil setting on 3.34 acres; over 300 feet from the road; 3 BA, 2.5 BA; main-level primary bedroom; rocking chair front porch; fruit trees; conditioned sunroom; 2 decks; stone FP in living area; granite countertops; custom storm doors; Gutter Guards; built-in garage shelves; solid wood doors; custom pantry; 24x36 carport; alarm system; 50-AMP generator hookup; Invisible Fencing; and no HOA. $434,900

DUSTIN CLINARD ROOFING. Shingles, metal, and leak repairs. Certified for 50year non-prorated shingle warranties. Call (336) 268-1908.

Robert S. Brodie, Jr.

CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC. 40 + years experience. (336) 643-8191.

PORTABLE WELDING SERVICE. Welding & fabrication services. Call (336) 908-6906. COMPUTER REPAIRS. On-site repairs/diagnostics. Hardware/software issues. Competitive rates. Call Shawn, (336) 501-2726. NOTARY PUBLIC. Serving the Triad area. Se habla Español. Carla Mateer, (336) 508-4676.

(336) 209-8206

bob@bobbrodie.com

ADULT TRIKES. Torker Boardwalk Cruisers. Three-speed. Hand brake and coaster brake. Like new. $600 each. Call (336) 938-0376. Will return messages. FFL DEALER. TOP GUN. Has new guns for sale. Oak Ridge. Call (336) 362-0055. HAY for sale, round bales. $40 per bale. (336) 430-9507. SEASONED FIREWOOD. Any size load delivered or you pick up. Steve Newman Tree Service. Call (336) 643-1119. PERSIMMON PULP & more. At the Old Mill of Guilford on Saturdays, or call (336) 816-3441.

locally owned & operated 6705 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale

(336) 643-9963 (affiliated with Stokesdale Storage)

WELDING AND TRAILER REPAIR. Call Tim, (336) 402-3869. GRAPHIC DESIGN. Affordable solutions for all your creative needs. Specializing in print, digital, presentation design, logo creation, brochures and more. Located in Summerfield. Phone (336) 988-2657 or email david@dpinterdesigns.com.

...continued from p. 1

“We carry on our traditions, but like most families, have some empty chairs. I’m so thankful for my children, grandchildren and extended family. Thanksgiving is about sharing memories and making new ones.” Bobbie Gardner, STOKESDALE

7756 Robinson Road, Summerfield

WWW.VILLAGEROOFS.COM

MISC. SERVICES

SOLD

OUR BLESSINGS

MISC. WANTED FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, tillers, generators, power washers, 4-wheelers, mini-bikes, golf carts, go-carts and other gas-powered items. (336) 689-4167. $$$ – WILL PAY CASH for your junk / wrecked vehicle. For quote, call (336) 552-0328. YARN NEEDED to make children's hats for homeless shelter. Call Beth, (336) 644-8155. Wanted: FARM EQUIPMENT to buy. All kinds. Please call (336) 430-9507.

Brodie Real Estate Company, Inc. LAND FOR SALE 6.3 ACRES, HEAVILY WOODED TRACT. Over 1300 feet fronting Willard Road, Oak Ridge. Soil evaluation available. Beaver Creek runs through property. Priced at $275,000. John Flynt, (336) 687-6019. .97 ACRES WOODED BUILDING LOT. Located at the corner of Stafford Mill and Willard Roads, Oak Ridge. Perked for a 4BR home. $95,000. John Flynt, (336) 687-6019. LOTS for sale! Exclusive homesites. Only 4 remain. No HOA. Summerfield address. Rockingham County taxes. Call (336) 314-3773 today. Owner financing may be available.

LAND WANTED WANTED: LAND. Any size or shape. Vacant or with dwellings. Matters not. We pay CASH! Quick closings! Call (336) 430-9507.

Selling or Renting? Place your ad online at

www.nwobserver.com

“I am thankful for my faith. There have been so many situations when I question, ‘where is God?’ A nation that is splintered and broken. Antisemitism against my neighbors. A young generation that is forgetting about our history and trying to erase events that affected so many. “But then I pray. I pray for my God to bring me though these happenings and know that He has a plan for me. He brings me peace and hope for the future.” Patti Dmuchowski, OAK RIDGE “I’m grateful for the opportunity to take care of God’s creation as a farmer and to witness the power of nature to nurture life. I also love sharing this beauty with others, especially my grandson!” David Bailey, STOKESDALE “My dad passed away last year on Nov. 11, at the age of 91, after slowly declining health over the past decade or so. He had a really rough 2022 and he was ready to go, even if we weren’t ready to lose him. “Then in April, my younger brother had a heart attack and died. No warning, no preparation, just shy of his 66th birthday. “This year I am most grateful for family and friends who have been there for me, sharing remembrances of my lost loved ones. I’ve made a point of trying to stay in touch with people. My two sons have been my rocks in terms

...continued on p. 38

TheObserver Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 NOV. NOV. - 29, 6, 2023 37 The Northwest • Totally local since 1996 16 16 - DEC. 2023 37

AMONG OUR BLESSINGS ...continued from p. 37 of making sure I’m okay. We recently spent a week together on Ocracoke Island, the first time in years we’ve been together that long. It was wonderful! “We always think we have more time. Make the most of what you have.” Vicki White-Lawrence, STOKESDALE “It is clear our society has lost its way, so I am most thankful for those who use their talents and abilities to fight for what is right and good, in spite of public opinion or personal condemnation. “Those who have earned my respect and thanks include: parents who stand up and speak against bullying, perversion, indoctrination, etc.; public officials who elucidate financial waste and abuse of taxpayer funds; school officials who insist on teaching students how to learn, excel socially, and behave with civility; and police officers and government officials who uphold their oaths of office to protect and defend our Constitution. “The reasons to be thankful are omnipresent! One has only to reflect on the many blessings and freedoms that we enjoy as Americans in order to participate in the obscure potential of a truly great nation.” Bill Edwards, OAK RIDGE “I am thankful for our beautiful grandchildren! Also, grateful that I can keep our grandson during the day. It’s such a gift to be able to watch him grow

every day. Our granddaughter is an in vitro fertilization (IVF) baby and a true miracle! She is truly a gift from God.” Judy Long, GREENSBORO “In July, I experienced what I thought was a heart attack. It was unlike anything I’d ever felt. I was afraid of going to the ER if I didn’t need to, so I went to bed (please don’t ever do what I did!). I went to the hospital the next day and everything, for the most part, was okay. No heart attack! “The next day, I advanced to the rank of ‘Captain Screw-up’ by getting a styling brush completely tangled on top of my head. After three hours without success, I had to start cutting and pulling out hair. My handiwork was not good, but I rushed off to a meeting. “Two days later was the day of reckoning at my cardiologist follow-up. It had been fun and games until my non-heart attack put me on their radar. I left the office that day with a heart-healthy diet plan, medications and compression socks. “Next, despite the kind words from friends, I realized I was going to need a professional haircut. All those short pieces just didn’t look good. “Within a week or two, my dermatologist found skin cancer on my forehead. I wasn’t sure how to feel, but resolved it would be okay. “Looking back, I am so grateful for all that God has brought me through.

Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC 35 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

38 NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023

www.samanderscpa.com

The dreaded changes from the cardiologist have actually been a blessing and the diet and medications have helped me feel better than I have in years. Even those compression socks have helped me so that my legs don’t swell and hurt. “Although I was sad to cut my hair, my hairdresser gave me a new look that fits me well. When I removed my bandages from the skin cancer surgery, I had hope for that, too. My church family prayed for me, and that deep wound healed even faster than smaller ones I’ve had. “I am telling this story not to broadcast myself, but I believe someone out there needs to hear these words of encouragement. May God bless!” Bonnie Ramba, STOKESDALE “I thank God every day for the roof over my head, food to eat, healthy children, a loving family and terrific friends.” Linda Greene, OAK RIDGE “I am so thankful for the people in my life, especially my family. This year my son and his family moved down to be closer to us, and my daughter just gave birth to her first child, my grandson, Henry. My wife, Nancy, and I have been married for over 41 years and are still in love. I am truly proud and thankful for all these people. “I am also very thankful for the people I work with – they are talented, professional and curious, without exception. It’s not work, it’s fun. “Lastly, I am thankful for the many people who I sing with in local choirs and chorales. Making ‘joyful noise’ with them is the high note of every week!” Tom McCoy, STOKESDALE “Gratitude is such a needed thing, and it is so good to take the time to reflect. Of course, my wonderful husband and family come to mind right away. Then friends that are like family. But underneath it all, I am most thankful for Jesus reaching into my life when I was a 28-year-old atheist with no intention of ever seeking Him. I know I would literally not be alive today if it weren’t for Jesus.

“It shocks me on a regular basis that our society has gotten so crazy and I often think that I don’t even know how to navigate life any longer. I am thankful that no matter what, He is with me, and I lean on Him to do the navigating, encouraging, and loving.” Sally Randall, OAK RIDGE “I’m very thankful the Cancer Center at Wesley Long has resumed support group meetings in person. They’re so important to survivors and current fighters. “Since the pandemic, the meetings have been via Zoom. I tried a few sessions, but it just wasn’t the same for me. Last Tuesday, it was really special to attend the first live meeting in over two years. I missed the strength and encouragement I get from taking part in these meetings. I’m so thankful to have them back.” Robin Priddy, STOKESDALE “In 2007, my family and I moved to the northwest area with three young children. I knew no one! Hesitantly, I became involved in volunteering at Oak Ridge Elementary School and began meeting so many amazing parents while we spent time working together to help the school. It was so much fun to learn about other cultures, whether from other areas of the US or from around the world. The best part was all of the laughs we shared! “Now that I am joining the emptynest group of parenthood, I am thankful for different reasons. I miss those moments of laughter and hearing about others’ daily moments. “You don’t realize how intertwined your family becomes with other families. With that said, I am thankful for all those families I have met along the way of my parenthood journey. I love having people I can call who are experiencing the same moments that my family is now navigating. I am thankful for the memories and friendships that continue to develop each and every day.” Melissa Stallings, SUMMERFIELD “As I close out my service on Oak Ridge Town Council, I have many, many things

to be grateful for and very few regrets. I am thankful for the chance to make a difference, the lessons learned, and the friends and supporters I have gained over the last four years. “Of these things, I am most thankful for the friends and supporters because they are the most precious to me. They have enriched my life and made me a stronger and better person. We talked, laughed, argued, worked hard, and played hard – all with a shared purpose of doing what was right and good for Oak Ridge. “Over time, many of these relationships matured and became personal friendships. With others, our shared love of Oak Ridge will continue to bind us together. While my term is ending, the friendships forged and the shared purpose with my Oak Ridge supporters both remain strong. These people are my greatest blessing this year and I give them all a heartfelt thank you for journeying along beside me. Martha Pittman, OAK RIDGE “Just having returned last week from Pilgrimage and travels throughout Italy, Greece and Croatia, I can say there is no place like home! This past year has been filled with many family trips and gatherings – immediate family and spouses, grandchildren, extended ‘Curtes Family Reunion’ and Disney siblings and cousins – all of which have resulted in the renewal and strengthening of family bonds. “At this stage in life a time of reflection reveals what is important – faith, family, and freedom. Home is where the heart is and what a privilege for our family, now two generations of custom home builders. “I’m thankful that we are able to use God’s gifts and talents in working especially with young families to create a home for retreat, refuge and renewal. Where the family goes so goes the nation. Most thankful especially at this crossroad in time to promote, preserve and protect the sanctity of the family beginning with our own. I am most grateful for our faith in hopes that we reflect His light.” Patti Disney, OAK RIDGE

“As my wife, Lisa, and I continue to age we are especially thankful and appreciative for a closely knit family and community. With aging parents and siblings, along with ourselves, we recognize the value of living within arm’s reach to help one another in difficult times. “At the same time, the joys of living near our children and grandchildren are beyond measure. We also recognize and are thankful to live in this small community where we know so many of the folks we see while dining and shopping locally. The opportunity to pour into the lives of others is expounded upon with community.” Mark Morphies, STOKESDALE “I am thankful for the super fun celebration of 15 years of Oak Ridge Physical Therapy recently (including the fun and dedicated staff I have), my three adult children living independently as adults and my magnificent girlfriend, Mary!” Andy Michels, OAK RIDGE

Pressure washers, chainsaws, tractors, aerators, power tools, etc. delivered to your door when you need them. No charge for delivery within 10 miles of Oak Ridge

BOB MAKES DIY EASY 336-298-8387 www.bobrents.com

My personal thanks I had loose plans to retire last February, but there was no one to give my resignation to, and finding a successor just hadn’t panned out. Faced Patti Stokes with the option of retiring anyway, and the Northwest Observer retiring along with me, I chose instead to plow forward, at least for a while. With my retirement up in the air, two of my long-term employees who had very kindly stayed with me with the idea that we would go out together finally left our company last spring. It was hard to stay behind, but I was fortunate to find some great people to take their place, and determined to forge ahead as we rebuilt our small team. My next challenge came when a fulltime writer I hired last summer with the goal of him one day succeeding me as editor abruptly resigned after only six weeks. Along with his exit went my plans to introduce a new publication separate from the Northwest Observer, which was to be totally centered on our youth – something I had wanted to do for years. About three weeks later, I learned my work teammate of 25+ years, Yvonne Truhon, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Our team was devastated right along with her, and initially we couldn’t muster up the energy, or the will, to get another issue out without her behind-the-scenes involvement in the production process. But then my ad designer (and daughter) stepped up and while keeping her part-time design job and being an awesome mom to her three young children, she took on the somewhat daunting newspaper design/layout job and together, we got another issue out in late September … and three more issues since. Meanwhile, Yvonne has chemotherapy every three weeks and in

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

between has days she feels decent enough that she’s willing and able to work, so we do our best to gauge her energy level and navigate around her treatments. She’s doing as well as can be expected, and holds high hopes that chemo will soon pave the way for successful surgery to remove her cancerous tumors. My two long-time employees are happily settled into new phases of life, and although I miss them, I appreciate all the years we got to work together and the contributions they made to our company while they were with us. My daughter has been a godsend in my business, just as in my personal life, and in the last few months she’s been haning with me through the newspaper production cycle until the last page of each issue is uploaded to the printer. As for retirement, it’s still on the horizon, but for now I’m planning to continue working into 2024 – with some modifications, which I’ll share next time. I still enjoy much of what my work entails, the many people I meet and interact with daily, and sharing real-life stories of “ordinary” but quite extraordinary people. And, I’m grateful for the local businesses and nonprofits who faithfully advertise with us and have made it possible for us to serve the community for the last 27 years as we have. My husband and I will celebrate our 39th anniversary next week. Both of our adult children and their spouses live nearby, and we’re blessed with four healthy grandkids who brighten up our world. So in this season of personal reflection, I’m reminded of my many blessings, which far outweigh the challenges of the last several months. I hope the same is true for you, and wish you a happy season of THANKS and all the joy that comes with GIVING.

Patti Stokes, NWO editor/publisher

NOV. 16 - DEC. 6, 2023 39

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Izabela and Hunter Watson enjoyed seeing the majestic royal palace while visiting their cousin, Laura, in Warsaw, Poland. While on the front lawn of the palace, they took a moment to show Laura the Northwest Observer – which has a hometown majesty of its own.

Kenneth and Lynn Simpson knew the Northwest Observer would bring a smile to the bride and groom’s faces when they traveled to Furnas, Azores, Portugal in August for their daughter’s wedding. Front row: Austin Snyder, August Howerton; second row (L-R): Shawn Palmeri, Tyler Woodrum (groom), Danielle Simpson (bride), Lynn Simpson, Kenneth Simpson; third row: Christine Palmeri, Hunter Albea, Chelsey Woodrum, Vicky Woodrum, Shannon Corlett, Robin Howerton, Bobby Simpson; back: Bill Roher

“It was a dream vacation with six other family members and friends,” said Carey and Toni Baldwin after returning from two weeks in Rome, Bolgona, Venice and Milan, Italy, as well as Nice and Paris, France. Shown in picture, the Baldwins paused before visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris to soak up the scenery, time with loved ones ... and the news from back home.

Oak Ridge residents Susan and Jim Bailey and Janet and Neal Graafsma recently went on an 11-day cruise tour to Alaska with 10 other couples, most of whom are in their Exhorters class at Life Community Church. While at a stop along the way from Denali to Fairbanks, the group used their time wisely and checked up on the news in the Northwest Observer.

Rain or shine, hot or cold, happy or sad, Puerto Rico or Stokesdale – Matt Prendergast won’t let anything stop him from reading the Northwest Observer.

Going near or far? Be sure to pack up your

Northwest Observer and send us your NWO on the go photos! Email your high-res photo to: photos@nwobserver.com