April 2 - 8, 2020
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Students, coaches, teachers adjust to uncertainty surrounding pandemic by MEREDITH BARKLEY
Photo by Meredith Barkley
Landon Kimrey, Northern Guilford High School baseball coach, mows the school’s baseball field recently. He said he takes pride in the field and enjoys keeping it maintained, but the field “is nothing without the kids.”
IN THIS ISSUE News in brief .......................................2 Town leaders adjust ...........................3 Your Questions ....................................4 ‘Elvis cannot leave the building’ ......5 Pets & Critters ......................................9 Your pets and COVID-19 .................10 Crime/Incident Report ....................14 NWO Kids’ Korner .............................15 Coloring page: ‘Hello Spring!’ ........16 Recipe: Homemade playdough....18 Grins and Gripes ..............................19 Classifieds .........................................20 Index of Advertisers .........................23 NWO On The Go! / Staycation .......24
In a world restructured by the coronavirus pandemic, teachers are having to find new ways to educate and coaches are left wondering when teams will play again. And since they’re all working from home, they’ve found a new set of challenges: juggling internet time so that each family member has a chance to get their work done. “I have a first-grader, and my wife teaches, too,” said Aaron King, who teaches earth and environmental
science at Northern Guilford High School (NGHS). “We’re trying to get everyone’s work and school activities scheduled. That’s a challenge now for every household with kids.” Folks like Melanie Huynh-Duc can sympathize. She teaches journalism and two English classes at Northwest Guilford High School (NWGHS), has a third-grader and preschooler, and a husband working at Elon University. “We’re all competing for digital access,” she said.
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Responding to COVID-19 You’d be hard-pressed to find anyone in our area who hasn’t been directly or indirectly affected by the coronavirus pandemic. For this issue we talked to a recovering COVID-19 patient, a gun shop owner and members of a local fire department – look for more conversations in next week’s issue.
by PATTI STOKES
Summerfield Fire Department SUMMERFIELD – Summerfield Fire Department has taken several precautionary steps to protect its staff and volunteers against COVID-19, assistant chief Jenna Daniels told the Northwest Observer. Although firefighters at the outlying stations
Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO
(L-R) Summerfield Fire Department Chief Chris Johnson, Marshall (from PAW Patrol), the Easter Bunny and several Summerfield firefighters ...continued on p. 6 paraded through almost a dozen neighborhoods in the last two weeks.
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NEWS in brief
Council to meet via Zoom OAK RIDGE – In keeping with the practice of social distancing, the Oak Ridge Town Council meeting scheduled for this Thursday, April 2, at 7 p.m. will be conducted electronically. A meeting agenda can be accessed at www.oakridgenc.com. The public may access the meeting by logging on to https://zoom.us/j/181823287 and entering Meeting ID 181 823 287. To listen to the meeting, citizens can
call 1 (646) 558-8656; 1 (312) 626-6799; 1 (301) 715-8592; or 1 (346) 248-7799. There will not be a period for public comments during this meeting, but those wishing to submit comments for council’s consideration can do so by emailing Town Clerk Sandra Smith at ssmith@ oakridgenc.com, by calling Town Hall at (336) 644-7009, or by sending a fax to (336) 644-7012.
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SUMMERFIELD – The coronavirus pandemic has had its impact on the trash industry – more families staying at home while social distancing has resulted in more trash collected at residences. In light of that, Summerfield Town Council agreed this week to Republic Services’ request to limit some of the services the company ordinarily offers until emergency orders have been lifted. Effective next week, only municipal solid waste placed inside Republic’s collection carts will be collected (i.e., trash bags on the ground, which cannot be picked up by a collection truck’s automatic arm, will be left); yard waste and bulk waste collection services will be suspended; and, if necessary due to contamination or disruptions in processing capabilities, recyclables may be taken to the landfill.
“These temporary changes will give us the additional resources needed to complete routes that are taking longer with additional tonnage being encountered during the stay-at-home orders,” Tony Krasienko, Republic’s municipal sales manager, wrote in an email to Summerfield Town Manager Scott Whitaker. “We will follow up with customers with automated calls to remind about all contents to be in the cart and temporary suspension of yard waste and bulk collection. Customers that have their account set up on RepublicServices.com will receive a message and/or email. If a customer calls to schedule yard waste or bulk collection, they will be informed that the service is temporarily suspended and no payment or service will be scheduled.”
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Town leaders adjust ways of conducting business; community events on hold Founders’ Day canceled, RidgeFest organizers monitoring virus by CHRIS BURRITT NW GUILFORD – Summerfield Town Council has canceled Founders’ Day, the town’s biggest celebration, due to the risks of COVID-19, while RidgeFest organizers are monitoring the coronavirus to determine plans for the three-day Oak Ridge festival. The Summerfield council voted 5-0 during a special called meeting Tuesday, March 31, to cancel the 24th annual Founders’ Day, scheduled for May 15-16. Mayor BJ Barnes and other council members discussed having a scaleddown, one-day event later this year after risks of the virus wane and health officials lift restrictions on group gatherings. RidgeFest is scheduled for May 28-30. In an interview earlier this week, Merchants of Oak Ridge member Randy Floss said he and other organizers will decide over the next month how to proceed with the festival. COVID-19 claimed its first death in Guilford County earlier this week as a growing number of cases has led to increasing restrictions to minimize the spread of the virus. Last month, the towns of Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Stokesdale closed playgrounds and athletic fields to comply with the county’s stay-at-home order to cease non-essential operations and restrict non-essential gatherings. Oak Ridge closed its town hall to the public, requiring visitors to schedule appointments with town staff, while the town halls in Summerfield and Stokesdale remain open. All three towns have urged residents to conduct town-related
business by phone or email.
The uncertainty of COVID-19’s spread has forced town leaders to alter plans based upon health advisories that err on the side of caution. In scheduling meetings, they’re limiting attendance to 10 or fewer people to comply with countywide restrictions, while providing other options for people to hear council deliberations. As it has done previously, Summerfield recorded its meeting this week via Facebook Live. Council member Teresa Pegram repeatedly questioned why the group was meeting in person, saying she and others in attendance were jeopardizing public health. Sitting several feet apart at the meeting table in Town Hall, other council members, including John O’Day, said they felt comfortable they were complying with local orders and being respectful of social distancing, but told Pegram they would have been fine if she had opted to participate in the meeting remotely. Oak Ridge leaders were making arrangements for the town council’s monthly meeting this Thursday, April 2, before deciding two days earlier to conduct the meeting electronically. The meeting agenda is posted on the town’s website at www.oakridgenc.com. Town staff will post instructions for accessing the meeting on the website as well as on Facebook and Nextdoor.com. There will be no period for public comments; however, residents can submit comments to Town Hall for consideration by council members. The council welcomes public comments, Mayor Ann Schneider said. “But we’re in a difficult period where to enable public comment in person just isn’t feasible,” she said in an interview earlier this week.
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As the three towns continue working on their budgets for the fiscal year starting July 1, they’re making arrangements to comply with state law requiring that municipalities hold two public hearings for residents to comment on proposed budgets. Alisa Houk, Stokesdale’s town clerk and finance officer, contacted the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer for guidance, Mayor John Flynt said in an interview earlier this week. “We’re trying to get a determination from the state about what to do when we can’t hold a meeting,” Flynt said, noting it’s possible the council may conduct meetings electronically. During Tuesday’s discussion by Summerfield council members about canceling Founders’ Day, Mayor Barnes suggested the possibility of holding a “Welcome Back Summerfield” celebration for families. It would occur during one day, whereas Founders’ Day begins Friday evening and ends late Saturday afternoon. A later celebration would operate on a smaller scale, with possibly no parade or amusement park rides, according to Barnes. Council members took no action regarding future plans for the event. The Summerfield council canceled its monthly meeting April 14 and postponed its May 12 monthly meeting to May 19. Summerfield Town Manager Scott Whitaker told the council he doesn’t feel it’s necessary to close Town Hall and have employees work from remote – yet. There’s been “very little foot traffic,” a sign people are respecting the town’s request for them to limit visits to Town Hall, Whitaker said. He said town staff “feels comfortable with our setup” in terms of keeping a safe distance from each other and the public. Closing Town Hall “sends the wrong message to citizens,” Barnes said. “As normal as we can keep it and still be safe, I think the better off we’re going to be as a community.”
What’s being done on Strawberry Road in Summerfield? Although it was postponed last year, widening and resurfacing of Strawberry Road, from U.S. 220 to Scalesville Road, recently got underway; the road project also includes widening and resurfacing of Witty Road and Lake Brandt Road in Guilford and Rockingham counties. “All of these roads are being widened two feet on both sides so that the lanes can be striped at 11 feet instead of 10 feet,” NCDOT district engineer Bobby Norris told the Northwest Observer this week. “This will also allow for a small paved shoulder to increase the safety along these roads
Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO
and is being done as a result of the increasing traffic volumes. The contract is scheduled to be completed by the end of this year – however, we had asked the contractor to hold off from last year, so the completion date may be extended.
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‘Elvis cannot leave the building’ After two weeks of social distancing, Realtor couple finds unique way to keep sense of humor and lighten the mood of others
Photos courtesy of Erica Jobe
When boredom hits, Erica Jobe turns into a costume designer and production manager for her husband, Mike, who performs as the legendary Elvis Presley.
by ANNETTE JOYCE What do you do when you’re stuck at home keeping your social distance because of the Coronavirus pandemic? Your business is essentially on hold indefinitely. You’ve cleaned the house, office, garage and cars. You’ve done all the laundry and are basically just bored out of your mind. If you’re Mike and Erica Jobe, you write parody songs about the temporary restrictions on everyday life, record the performances and then post them for others to enjoy. Their first production, titled “Elvis Cannot Leave the Building,” showed up last week on Erica’s Facebook page. It turns out the couple has a talent for writing parodies and Mike is a decent Elvis impersonator – and a very good singer. His performance is sure to give you a chuckle or two and take your mind off all the ominous news circulat-
ing in the last few weeks. The song, which is performed to the tune of Elvis Presley’s “Suspicious Minds,” is based on the idea of not being able to go out of the house “because of COVID-19, baby.” With the couple’s family room as the backdrop, Mike, 41, is decked out in his Elvis gear while his “marketing/production manager,” Erica, 39, is behind the camera. The result is quite entertaining and has helped these two Oak Ridge residents deal with repercussions of this serious virus.
The Jobes and their two children, Riley, 12, and Skylar, 5, have been voluntarily confined to their home since schools closed nearly three weeks ago. Because she has asthma, Erica is at high risk and the family has taken social distancing very seriously by staying away from everyone as much as possible. “I’m just as scared as anybody,” Erica said. The Jobes, both Realtors and owners of RE/MAX Down Home, have postponed most of their business transac-
tions and once all the household chores and their kids’ online schoolwork have been done, the couple has an unusual amount of free time on their hands. While Mike has been singing since he was a little kid and both he and Erica have always enjoyed karaoke, their lives
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RESPONDING
firefighters are only assisting on the more severe medical calls.
...continued from p. 1
on Scalesville Road and Lake Brandt Road routinely come to Station 9 on Summerfield Road for training, “Now we’re keeping staff at each station separate,” Daniels said. “If, for example, the crew at Station 29 gets the virus, there is less chance of taking the whole shift out (across all three stations). We want to be sure to have enough personnel to function correctly.” Doors to the stations have been locked to limit those who come inside and stop any potential spread of the virus. “We’ve been trained in medical precautions, and we’re trained in how to use our PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) – that’s nothing new, but the rapid onset of this virus is unique and that’s why we’re having to keep the stations closed to the public,” Daniels explained. Burn permits are temporarily being issued online only. To obtain a 30-day burn permit, visit www.ncforestservice.gov/ burn_permits/burn_permits_main.htm. Normally, the fire department assists EMS on medical calls, but for now
“Because of this virus, we’re trying to limit the number of personnel going on calls. If the fire department does go, we’re limiting the number of personnel going into the house,” Daniels said. Daniels said the county offers webinars every day to help personnel stay as educated about the virus as possible. On a lighter note, as part of its community outreach program, the fire department looks forward to offering an annual kids’ Easter egg hunt. This year’s egg hunt was to be on April 5, but after it had to be canceled due to social distancing requirements, the department reached out to several HOAs in the community and offered to have a parade of fire department vehicles instead. The response was enthusiastic, and they ended up parading through almost a dozen neighborhoods. “We went to neighborhoods, threw out candy and had a good time,” Chief Chris Johnson said. “It was truly amazing. Everybody has been happy. We have a great community and we just wanted to do something for the people.”
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Surviving COVID-19 OAK RIDGE – Andy Lambert and his wife, Rene, planned a cruise six months ago, but in early March, just a few days before they were to leave, the first diagnosed case of the coronavirus in the United States made the news. “We did debate about not going, but at the time of launch, we were hearing everything was going to be okay. And then of course, two or three days into it, the world became a different place,” said Lambert, senior pastor of Oak Ridge United Methodist Church. Their first stop was to be in Turks and Caicos, but after the cruise ship was rerouted to the Bahamas, Lambert said, “We knew at that point … and we continued to enjoy ourselves, but it was on everyone’s minds.” When they arrived home on Sunday, March 15, the couple went into selfquarantine. Four days later, Lambert began to run a fever, but said he still felt okay. That afternoon he taped his sermon for the following Sunday, but by evening his fever had risen. The following Friday morning, at his doctor’s suggestion, Lambert went to a drive-by COVID-19 test site; it took a week before getting a confirmation he had tested positively for COVID-19, and in the meantime, his fever rose and fell. “It was just like the flu and I felt bad,” he said. Six days later, he said he was starting to “get concerned” about his breathing and the following morning, March 27, he went to the hospital. “Within 10 minutes they had me on oxygen,” which he said gave him immediate relief. Several hours later he was taken to ICU, and 24 hours after that he was moved to a regular room. Last Saturday he had his last fever, and he returned home Sunday. When we spoke April 1, he said he felt about 80% recovered. Throughout his illness, Lambert has maintained the “quirky” sense of humor that he’s known for. “There were lots of folks genuinely concerned about me and I wanted them to know I was okay,” he said.
Photo courtesy of Andy Lambert
Rene and Andy Lambert. At age 58, Lambert said he is overall in good physical condition; he added he is diabetic, but is not on insulin.. Throughout his ordeal and the virus pandemic, Lambert said the church’s congregation has stepped up in numerous ways. “We have daily conference calls and like every other church, we’re trying to do as much online as we can and are reaching out to people through social media. Everybody is figuring out how to do this in the best possible way.” As he recovers, Lambert notes that, as a minister, being at the receiving end of care has been unusual for him. “I’ve been in ministry for 34 years and visited a lot of folks in the hospital and in ICU.... It was bizarre being on a gurney, and being pushed through the hallways,” he said, adding, “It was a blessing to receive so many prayer requests. I’m thankful, and I’m a blessed man.” On a final note, Lambert said the care he received at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital was “tremendous.” “One thing that struck me is, probably a nurse or technician or doctor probably saved my life, but I wouldn’t know their face if they walked up to me right now ‘cause all I got to see were masks. So much is being done behind the scenes for so many people. And of course, as a pastor, I believe Christ is the author of all that love and sacrifice and I’m very appreciative.” Writer’s note: Rene Lambert has been asymptomatic and is feeling good, although she continues to remain quarantined, Lambert said.
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Atlantic Outdoors owner Mark Yonjof and his dog, Cleo, inside the Stokesdale-based retail store this past fall. Yonjof said sales at his gun and outdoor shop have surged since news circulated about the first patient diagnosed with COVID-19 in the U.S. STOKESDALE – According to Guilford County’s COVID-19 stay-at-home order, firearm and ammunition suppliers and “retailers for purposes of safety and security” are among the “essential” businesses allowed to continue operating. That’s good news for Atlantic Outdoors on U.S. 158 in downtown Stokesdale, which has experienced record sales in the last couple months. The surge in demand for firearms and ammunition began in February, Atlantic Outdoors’ owner Mark Yonjof told the Northwest Observer this week. Sales were even higher in March – up 411% over March 2019. “That’s incredible. March is normally a good month, but nothing like that!” Yonjof said. So far this week, he said the store is doing about 1 ½ to 2 weeks’ worth of business every day. “It’s been crazy – think about David (Wrenn, owner of Bi-Rite) selling milk
and bread, but having to do paperwork every time. That’s what it’s been like for us,” he said. On the morning of April 1, Yonjof was enjoying the “calm before the storm” as he prepared to open again on a two-hour delay. “We’ve had to open later so we have time to get some of the product put out,” he explained. “We’re trying real hard to just keep ammo stocked.” Not only are guns and ammo in high demand, but the type of guns people are buying are totally different, Yonjof noted. “We cater more to the people who have an appreciation for higher-end guns, whether it be handguns or rifles,” he said. “… What caught all of us off guard was everybody wanted to buy an AR (Armalite Rifle, an assault-style weapon) or a tactical defense shotgun. We didn’t have nearly enough of those to go around.” Adding to the craziness has been issues with the NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System) crashing – that’s something Yonjof said normally happens on occasion, but recently was happening every day. It’s particularly been frustrating because of the number of first-time gun buyers he’s had. “First-time gun buyers are what we’ve been dealing with a lot – it’s kind of scary that people felt the need to buy firearms for the first time,” he noted. “With no concealed-carry or pistol purchase permit, they can buy a shotgun or rifle with a background check. Normally that’s no problem, but when the system went down we got notices like, ‘Delayed until further notice,’ which can last up to three business days,” he said. While Yonjof isn’t complaining, he said he and his employees have been going full throttle to serve their customers and keep their shelves stocked. “We’ve been opening later, but I’m actually coming in earlier,” he said. “We’re all tired.”
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ADJUSTING
...continued from p. 1 For coaches, uncertainty looms over everything. “We’re in limbo like everyone else,” said NWGHS baseball coach Chris Maness, who also teaches physical education at Jamestown Middle. “We probably won’t know for a couple weeks if we’ll play later.” Public schools across North Carolina will be closed at least through May 15 as a defense against the rapidly spreading coronavirus and the disease it causes: COVID-19. It’s uncertain how the closing will affect what’s left of the school year, which for Guilford County students was set to end June 5. “We always say: ‘Practice and play every game like it’s your last,’” said Landon Kimrey, NGHS’s baseball coach, also a PE teacher at Northern Guilford Middle School. “I’m afraid we’re learning that lesson now.” His team’s last regularly scheduled game is May 1. Coaches say they hope that if schools reopen before the school year ends, the N.C. High School Athletic Association will extend athletic schedules. “I’m just taking it one day at a time,” said Kristen Herndon, NWGHS’s girls lacrosse coach. “These are extremely weird times.” Students and teachers are also hav-
ing to become familiar with the Canvas program – the county school system’s online learning tool. “I was lucky and had been using Canvas this year,” said Katie Sayani, who teaches photography and art at NGHS. “There are some (teachers) having trouble. It’s a bit of a learning curve.” Huynh-Duc said she is now posting 15-minute YouTube videos through Canvas for her English classes. Her ninthgraders are reading “Great Expectations” by Charles Dickens and her advanced placement students are reading “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Her videos cover symbolism, imagery and other details her students may not have picked out on their own, she said. She hadn’t had much experience with Canvas, but said she is now a fan. “I don’t think I would have taken the time to get to know this,” Huynh-Duc said. “But now that we have to, it’s been a great program to learn and I think my colleagues agree. We can see the usefulness going forward.” Many teachers are having to be creative to make distance learning effective. Sayani, for example, has had to come up with art projects that all students can do, regardless of whether they have traditional art supplies at home. She said she’s showing them how to make paints using items around the house, like spices and flowers. That and a cotton swab for a paint brush does the job, she said. She also wants
them to recycle household trash into art. “In some ways we’re really excited about this because it’s tapping into their creativity,” Sayani said. “We’re forcing them to think outside the box a little bit more, and I think that benefits everyone.” Her students photograph their finished work and post the pictures online for her inspection. Huynh-Duc’s journalism students, who put out the high school’s quarterly newspaper, have had to cancel the final print edition for this school year. But, Huynh-Duc said, they’re trying to maintain its online presence. “They’re going to do their best to design it from home, which I admire,” she said. “We’re all just doing what needs to be done and what we can do day by day to make sure everyone hangs in there.” One key problem the school system scrambled to fix: the lack of home internet service and access to laptop computers for all students; throughout the county, internet access has been made available in some school parking lots. “It’s definitely been a problem,” King said, noting several days ago about 20 of his 160 students still had not logged on to the Canvas system for assignments and work. “I don’t know what the next steps are,” he said. “I feel like I can’t keep going forward because we’re leaving people behind.” Last week the State Board of Educa-
tion agreed to a pass-fail system that would pass seniors who had passing grades on March 13, when the coronavirus forced the state’s public schools to close. Those who weren’t passing have several options under the plan. Students in lower grades will only receive grades if certain accessibility and learning conditions are met. Coaches, meanwhile, are trying to maintain contact with players, hoping they’re staying in shape and working out on their own. “We keep in touch through group chat,” said Herndon of her lacrosse players. Part of her coaching style, she said, is built on cultivating and maintaining relationships with her team. But, she said, “I really don’t think the season will get back together with the way things are going, which is a shame. I especially hate it for the seniors.” Maness and Kimrey said they’re keeping the baseball fields in playing condition. “I know it’s hard on the seniors,” Maness said. “I’m missing playing, and missing being with the kids. Those things are tough.” Kimrey, sitting at the controls of a John Deere riding mower near the pitcher’s mound, talked about the pride he had in the field. “But this field is nothing without the kids,” he said. “I’ve never appreciated the times we’ve had on this field until now.”
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Luna, a mini lamancha goat, was born at Dunla p Farms in Summerfield. Over the last few months she’s enjoyed visiting schools and getting cuddles wh ile her owner, Leah Dunlap, sta yed busy milking Luna’s mom! (Left) Luna visits Mrs. La wrence’s sixth-grade sci ence class at Northern Middle Scho ol. (Right) Luna happily rests in the arms of Ma ria Dunlap, 9, at Dunlap Farms.
PET ADOPTIONS SQUEAK Meet Squeak, a spayed female black-and-white domestic shorthair. She is about 4 years old, so Squeak has lots of loving years to give her “fur-ever” family. While waiting to be adopted, she spends her time streaming movies (favorites are “The Lion King,” “Babe,” “Homeward Bound” and “The Secret Life of Pets”) and (of course!) washing herself from nose to tail. After all, she has to stay “Squeaky clean”! Please ask for this sweet girl by ID#A020341.
Otie (right) and Tipper relax with the Northwest Observer. Owner Laura Althouse says, “It’s a great, comfortable read, and Otie and Tipper like the NWO as much as we do!”
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www.guilfordcountync.gov/our-county/animal-services/animal-shelter
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Your pets and COVID-19 by ANNETTE JOYCE In dealing with COVID-19, we humans have received plenty of precautions and recommended steps to take – but what about pets? Can they get, or be a carrier of, the virus? Are veterinary practices considered essential businesses, and if they’re still open, what steps are they taking to protect you, their employees and the animals they’re caring for? On March 27, N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper issued a statewide 30-day stay-at-home order; the order, which took effect this past Monday, followed a similar stay-at-home order already issued by Guilford County and the cities of Greensboro and High Point last week, which took effect March 27. Veterinarians, as well as pet food and supply stores, are among the businesses considered “essential,” and therefore are allowed to continue operating while being urged to enforce social distancing. Although local veterinarians’ offices remain open, they are altering their operations accordingly. “We are not currently allowing human clients into the building,” said
Dr. Angel Fuller, owner of King’s Crossing Animal Hospital in Stokesdale. Fuller noted there is one exception to this – clients may be with their pet if it has to be euthanized. Other than that exception, clients whose pets need to be seen call the practice’s main line once they’re in the parking lot, and are then checked in over the phone. “Then we go out to the car and bring the pet into the building for their exam and any diagnostics,” Fuller said. “Once that is complete, the doctor either calls the client or goes outside and speaks with them while wearing a mask and maintaining a safe distance. Payments are taken over the phone.” Triad Animal Hospital in Kernersville started a similar practice a few weeks ago when the staff noticed a significant number of elderly pet owners in the lobby. According to Mim Marti, who manages the office and co-owns the business with her husband, Dr. Humberto Marti, they felt strongly they should take steps to protect both their clients and their employees.
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“We’re doing our due diligence to take care of the animals, not make anyone sick and still try to stay in business,” Mim Marti said. She also mentioned that when possible, they are working with their clients to defer all elective procedures.
Can I catch COVID-19 from my pet – or vice versa? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found no evidence to substantiate this possibility. Information on the organization’s website points out the coronavirus is not just a single virus, but includes a large number of related viruses. “Some coronaviruses cause cold-like illnesses in people, while others cause illness in certain types of animals, such as cattle, camels and bats. Some coronaviruses, such as canine and feline coronaviruses, only infect animals.
“At this time, there is no evidence that companion animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19 or that they might be a source of infection in the U.S.,” the CDC website states.
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“While coronaviruses are very common and there are types of coronaviruses that dogs and cats can have, COVID-19 is not one of them,” she said.
“Current recommendations from the American Veterinary Medical Association do recommend that persons who are ill with COVID-19 limit their exposure to pets, however,” she said. “This is a precaution until we have more information on how long the virus could last on the fur of the animal.” Dr. John Carr, owner of Carr Veterinary Hospital in Oak Ridge, also confirmed the possibility of an animal’s fur or coat being a fomite carrier. “Theoretically, a person infected with the disease could transmit it (by rubbing an animal),” he said. “Particles can be on the pet but the risk (of transmission) is relatively low, especially in an outdoor setting.” Carr offers a simple solution for dealing with this situation.
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Fuller said everything she has studied about COVID-19 supports the CDC’s stance.
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and their families
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Wendy Camp, DVM | Karen Nasisse, DVM
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How can I prepare my pet for the possibility of my being quarantined or hospitalized?
“Use the principles of good hygiene. Wash your hands and don’t touch your face until you have,” he said.
Just as with any potential emergency situation, you should have a plan for your pet’s care in case you become sick.
Can COVID-19 make my pet sick?
Carr advised having a supply of food, prescription and non-prescription medicine and other necessary items on hand.
Fuller believes it can – in a roundabout way – and she said she is seeing evidence of it in her practice. Since the virus is quickly changing people’s routines, it inevitably changes their pets’ routines.
“Have at least a month’s supply of food and a couple months’ worth of medication for pets that require it for chronic conditions,” he said.
“When this occurs, cats may develop stress cystitis (inflammation of the bladder) and have urinary issues. Dogs may develop stress colitis (inflammation of the large bowel) and have diarrhea as a result,” Fuller explained. “The coronavirus outbreak happening during the seasonal change has most definitely caused additional stress for some of our pets. They can sense the stress and anxiety their owners are experiencing, and they also become stressed and anxious.”
If you’re quarantined, your pet can stay at home with you; however, it’s best to have a plan in place just in case you are hospitalized. First, determine where your pet will stay – ideally, with a family member, friend or neighbor.
If I get COVID-19, should I be concerned about caring for my pet? The advice concerning pets is similar to how you would routinely react – quarantine yourself and your pet, avoid close contact with your pet and follow good hygiene. To be on the safe side, the CDC recommends you “restrict contact with pets and other animals while you are sick with COVID-19, just like you would around other people.” Although there’s no evidence the disease is transmittable between humans and animals, this conservative approach helps protect everyone concerned.
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The CDC says there is no evidence that pets can get or directly transmit COVID-19; however, it has not been determined how long the virus could last on the fur of an animal, so people diagnosed with COVID-19 are urged to limit their exposure to pets.
If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with them.
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Availa b
As with any threat – such as a natural disaster – have your pet’s crate, food and extra supplies ready for quick movement. If your pet’s vaccines are not up-to-date, now’s the time to do it; should your pet need to go into a boarding facility, the facility will not accept pets without the proper vaccines and documentation. Have a list of all vaccines and dates readily available. You’ll also want to ensure your pet’s diet, medications, dosages and administering directions are all properly documented and that you’ve included your vet’s contact information. And, don’t forget to make sure your pets are wearing a collar and ID tag.
le
Dr. Julie Packard Dr. Emily Westmoreland Serving the NW Triad area since 1991
• Full-service animal hospital • Boarding & grooming • Laser therapy & acupuncture
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C a ll o r c h e c k o u t o ur F a c e b o o k p a g e fo r o ur m o di f ie d h o ur s o f o p e r a t io n. Co ro n aviru s p re c a u tio n s in pl a c e.
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APRIL 2 - 8, 2020
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Novant Health Forsyth Pediatrics Oak Ridge Deepa Nayak, MD • Chase Michaels, MHS-PAC Steve Kearns, MD • Laurie MacDonald, MD When it comes to your child’s care, you can trust our expert pediatricians. From prevention services to same-day sick visits, we’re here every step of the way. (336) 644-0994 • nhforsythpediatricsoakridge.org
2205 Oak Ridge Road Oak Ridge
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Destination Arts thanks you for continuing to support the local businesses that make our community so great! (336) 740-6891 DestinationArtsCenter.com
Now in TWO LOCATIONS | Destination Arts - Oak Ridge & Northern Arts - Summerfield
Oak Ridge Com
A surprisingly uncommon experience in the heart of O
Prestige Car Wash – let us take car Ahhhh, springtime in the Carolinas. Beautiful blooms, singing birds, warm temperatures… and, the thick yellow coating of pollen that makes you sneeze and covers your vehicles. Fortunately, there’s a fast, convenient and affordable way to get rid of those icky particles that just keep piling up on your car or truck as soon as the weather starts to warm up. All it takes is a trip through one of the bays at Prestige Car Wash. Located in Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center at the intersection of N.C. 68 and 150, Prestige Car Wash has provided local residents with an easy way to keep their vehicles sparkling since 2005. We’re talking one-stop shopping, with no need to ever leave your car. Just pull up, select your wash option on the pin pad, pay ... and then sit back and relax while your car gets a much-needed bath and comes out at the other end all clean and shiny. Should you want to do a bit of detailing on the
outside or clean up the inter eral new outside vacuum sta to finish up the job quickly a
S ago, has u upda it wen trans the w vacuu were the e state customers the very best car w
Doug Smith, operations m agement in Oak Ridge, over ity’s day-to-day operations a the customer is happy. If for problems with the car wash e wants to know about it.
“We know equipment m it’s brand new, and we want a customer has a problem s
mmons
SHOP • DINE • ENJOY
Oak Ridge, at the corner of NC Highways 68 and 150
re of the dirty work
rior, park near one of sevations and you’ll be able and easily.
Since opening 15 years Prestige Car Wash undergone numerous ates. This past winter ent through another sformation when all washing equipment, uums and pay stations e replaced to ensure entire facility remains e-of-the-art and offers its wash experience possible.
manager for JPC Manrsees the car wash faciland he isn’t satisfied until any reason there are equipment or service, he
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situation right ASAP,” Smith said. Should an issue arise, a staff member can usually be reached promptly by cell phone. If a call does go to voicemail, it will be returned promptly.
336.564.7229 Add your favorite wine or beer to your take-out order!
Thank you for all your continued support.
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“Our goal is 100 percent customer satisfaction,” Smith said.
We are thankful for our wonderful patients and community. We wish you all good health! Have an orthodontic question or emergency? Call or email.
Touchless and soft wash Vacuum & shampoo bays
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27-year-old male known offender was arrested for driving while impaired and also cited for driving with a revoked license.
CRIME / INCIDENT report
District 1 Sheriff’s Office
has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest/northern Guilford County ... The District 1 office, one of three district offices in Guilford County, encompasses Oak Ridge, Summerfield, Stokesdale, Colfax and northwest and northern Greensboro. It is bounded by Rockingham County on the north, runs east along U.S. 29 South, west along Forsyth County and south along the Greensboro city limits.
March 27 | An 18-year-old male was cited in the 5400 block of Centerfield Road in Summerfield (off Summerfield Road) for possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance (marijuana) and possession of drug paraphernalia.
ROBBERY March 24 | Two citizens in the
reported a known suspect communicated serious threats to harm him through their speech and actions.
ALCOHOL March 26 | A 72-year-old male was cited in the 4400 block of U.S. 220 N in Summerfield for driving with an open container in the passenger area.
DRUGS March 24 | A 26-year-old female was arrested at 10 a.m. in the drive-thru at State Employees’ Credit Union in Oak Ridge for possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance (Xanax); a
COMMUNICATING THREATS March 28 | A citizen in the 5000 block of Korem Drive in northwest Greensboro (near Alcorn Road)
7200 block of U.S. 158/Athens Road in Stokesdale reported a 35-year-old male robbed them at gunpoint; the man was arrested for common-law robbery.
VANDALISM March 26 | A resident of the 7700 block of Summerfield Road reported a known suspect threw objects at her and at her vehicle’s windshield; she was not injured, but her window had about $600 worth of damage.
District 1 Sheriff’s Office
7504 Summerfield Road Main number: (336) 641-2300 Report non-emergency crime-related incidents by calling: (336) 373-2222 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., M-F www.guilfordcountync.gov/ our-county/sheriff-s-office
Submit your Calendar Events online at www.nwobserver.com
OLD SCHOOL
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Serving northwest Guilford County
Carlotta Lytton
, CPA, PC
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Specializing in Payroll & Accounting for Small Businesses 7805 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale clyttoncpa@bellsouth.net
14
phone: (336) 644-7033
APRIL 2 - 8, 2020
fax: (336) 644-7038
Tax & Consulting Services For Individuals & Businesses
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Tax Returns Tax Planning Payroll Service Bookkeeping Financial Reports Budget Analysis
8400 Hwy 158 • PO Box 469 Stokesdale, NC 27357 kim@kimberlythacker.com
(336) 644-2741 office (336) 644-2743 fax
The Wright Stuff Flight Simulation Model Kits, Display Models Birthday Parties
www.wrghtstff.com 2306 Oak Ridge Road
Parents as Teachers Guilford County proudly promotes
r e n r o K ’ s Kid l kids
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library FREE MONTHLY BOOK PROGRAM
local fun for loca
for children under the age of 5 living in Guilford County. Register online!
WORD SEARCH S
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Register your child today www.patgc.org Thank you to Parents as Teachers Guilford County for making this week’s word search possible. SPRING TULIPS
CHICKS
OLD MILL BUNNY
BLOOM RAIN
SEEDS
EASTER BEES
Did you notice one LOCAL business in this week’s word search? The Old Mill of Guilford is located in Oak Ridge and was founded in 1767. The mill has been producing natural stone-ground products for over 240 years! The Old Mill is easy to spot with its red roof and red wheel.
Thank you to Guilford County Guardian ad Lit
C N W O K I D S K O R N E R K O L O R I N G
Than
Original drawing by Helen Ledford/NWO
Thank you to Reynolds Orthodontics for making this week’s coloring page possible.
Sitting at home and unhappy with your smile? Making smiles...inside and out!
336-644-1664 Summerfield and Greensboro
Try our VIRTUAL CONSULTATION found on our website and decide if orthodontics is in your future...right from the comfort of your home! Visit our website, www.ReynoldsOrthodontics.com today!
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Guardian ad Litem for making this week’s coloring page possible.
ord/NWO
Can you find the 10 differences between these two pictures?
Thank you to Guilford County Guardian Ad Litem for making this week’s “find the difference” activity possible.
Who will be the VOICE for this child? Over 250 children in Guilford County will go to court alone. Learn how to be an advocate for an abused or neglected child by becoming a Guardian Ad Litem.
(336) 412-7580 | volunteerforgal.org
Have you read the children’s book, “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt?” Inspired by this award-winning book, people across the world are putting stuffed bears in their windows and yards to create a “bear hunt” as a fun, positive activity for families out on a walk or a drive through the neighborhood. Have you seen any stuffed bears in your neighborhood? If not, maybe you could get a bear hunt started!
Healthy Smiles. Happy Patients.
Our office will remain open to serve any urgent dental needs that arise during this time. We havethorough infection control and cleaning procedures in place to make your visit safe. Thinking of everyone in our community and beyond during this difficult time. - Drs. Ben and Jenny Weston
6161-A Lake Brandt Road • Summerfield • 336 .643.1440 • SummerfieldDentist.com Thank you to Summerfield Family Dentistry for making this week’s “Kids’ Kreations” section possible.
R ecipe Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup salt 4 tsps cream of tartar 2 cups lukewarm water 2 tblsp vegetable oil food coloring quart-size bags
Homemade Playdough
Submitted by Kelli & Halle Jessup, northwest GSO, NWO Kids’ Korner
Directions:
Mix flour, salt and cream of tartar together in a large pot. Add water and oil. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until dough thickens and begins to form into a balll. Remove from heat. Allow to cool for five minutes. Divide dough based on how many different colors of dough Halle Jessup, 1.5 years, smiles big after helping make her first batch of homemade playdough.
you would like to create. Place dough in quart-sized bags & put 5-10 drops of food coloring in each bag. Knead the
Using this recipe?
dough while inside the bag so coloring does not stain hands.
Send a photo of you with your creation to photos@nwobserver.com and check out our Kids’ Kreations album on
Play & Enjoy! (lasts approximately 3 months)
Have a favorite recipe or craft to make with the kids at home? Share your recipe or craft instructions along with a photo for a chance to be featured in our NWO Kids’ Kreations section. Email photos@nwobserver.com
Kids’ Kreations
Kids’ Kreations
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Interested in in sponsoring a feature
NWO Kids’ Korner? call Laura at (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 or e-mail advertising@nwobserver.com
GRINS and GRIPES
Delighted or dismayed by something in your community? Share your thoughts in
40
words or less
online: nwobserver.com e-mail: grinsandgripes@nwobserver.com Grins & Gripes are published based on available space and editor’s discretion.
GRINS to...
Stokesdale Bi-Rite owner David Wrenn and staff for being community rock stars. Let’s not forget their service, and continue our patronage when they open the doors of their stunning new store!
refrain at the end of every paragraph. Remember to sing the happy birthday song while you soap, water and rinse! Food Lion for lowering lots of prices during the COVID-19 pandemic to meet customer needs. They know a lot of people are on fixed incomes and out of work. Their brand of ice cream was $1.99. Thank you, Food Lion. Oak Ridge Council Member Jim Kinneman for suggesting a streaming video technology that would be very useful right now.
The Northwest Observer’s front-page Coronavirus article in the March 19 issue, and especially for the “wash your hands”
My good neighbors on Linville Road in Oak Ridge. The Bible says “help the widows and orphans,” and you surely
All the people who work in “essential businesses” (hospitals, nursing homes, grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, restaurants, etc.). Thank you so much for working extra hard these days and under high risk for the rest of our society!
have helped this widow! Cooper at Bi-Rite for carrying my groceries to my car and asking if I’m okay after my eyes were filled with tears from going to three stores trying to find items needed. Thank you for caring! Food Lion in Stokesdale (and grocery store employees nationwide). Our local Food Lion has the friendliest, kindest workers who are putting their lives on the line so we may have food to eat – all while sanitizing every cart and surface!
GRIPES to...
The manipulative shenanigans of physicians’ networks who bounce you off 10 people (each insisting on a financial colonoscopy) before speaking with the doctor’s receptionist who cheerily declares “we’re not accepting new patients!” It’s easier to get an appointment with God. The group of kids smoking marijuana before going into the tobacco and vape store on Battleground Avenue. As a customer of UPS, I don’t appreciate dealing with that as I’m getting out of my car. I’m calling police next time.
Those who are stalking and trying to “gaslight” Teresa Pegram (Summerfield Town Council member). But you did like her idea of portable hand sanitizing stations, right? The geniuses who locked Oak Ridge Town Park bathrooms. You’re just causing unnecessary discomfort and distress (particularly for seniors) as people legally exercise outdoors. And you’re preventing everyone from washing their hands. It’s like banning Kleenex to stop colds. My 20-year-old daughter’s friends who are asking kids on social media about going on trips to the beach, sleepovers, shopping days, etc., while still gathering in large groups and posting parties. Love one another – stay home! Stokesdale Town Council members who are striving to change Stokesdale into their own “Friends of Stokesdale” vision. No more pay raises, no more staff members. Do the job or resign if you can’t handle it. No property tax! CVS for advertising sale items you are out of and offering BOGO items that you often only have one of.
Meet our LeBauer HealthCare at Oak Ridge team Accepting new patients Call us today for an appointment
(336) 644-6770
1427-A NC Hwy 68 North, Oak Ridge * surveys are performed by Press Ganey, an independent party
lebauer.com On-site lab & counseling services available The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
APRIL 2 - 8, 2020
19
AUTO SALES & SERVICE
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
KNIGHT IMPORT SPECIALTY SERVICE. European Auto Service & Repair, 4559 US Highway 220, Summerfield (across from Food Lion). Specializing in factory-scheduled maintenance and repairs. BMW, Audi, Volvo, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Mini and Porsche. 32 years experience. (336) 337-0669.
CLEANING
GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES
STEPHANIE'S CLEANING SERVICE. 10 years exp. (336) 423-2239.
L & T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE "We get you mowing!" Comm./res., all models. 2103 Oak Ridge Rd., Oak Ridge. Call (336) 298-4314, LandTsmallengineservice.com.
1999 FORD EXPEDITION, Eddie Bauer edition, red with tan interior, third-row seat, 5.4 V8, 4WD. Very good condition. 179K mi., $4,500 obo. (336) 668-2626. SAM'S AUTO BODY SHOP. Any type of body work. 45 years exp. (336) 347-7470.
Place online at
DEADLINE: Monday prior to each issue
Call (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 Mon - Fri • 9am -12:30pm
INDEX Auto Sales & Service ............20
Service that is more than just a Repair
6716 US Hwy 158•Stokesdale
Just 1/4 mile off I-73
ELECTRICAL
HIRING crew members at Edgefield Plant & Stone Center. Inquire at (336) 662-0081 or email Edgefieldplantstone@gmail.com.
BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC.
STAFF POSITIONS open in childcare center. Lead teacher and assistant teacher positions available. Call (336) 643-5930 for info.
Need an electrician? Call BLACKMON ELECTRICAL, INC. Free est. Comm. & res. Licensed & insured. Call (336) 430-5018.
Public Notice............................20
DUE TO THE CORONAVIRUS, many previously scheduled events, yard sales and fundraisers in our area have been postponed or cancelled. We will keep you posted in future issues as to if/when they are rescheduled.
Misc. Wanted ..................... 22
HOME SERVICES
Pets & Animal Services ....... 22
AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING
Real Estate ......................... 22
20 20
APRIL APRIL22--8, 8,2020 2020
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.
EMPLOYMENT
PUBLIC NOTICE
Misc. for Sale ..................... 22
MAIDS OF HONOR HOME CLEANING. $25 off! Locally owned, bonded staff. 40 yrs. in service. BBB A+ rating. (336) 708-2407.
DECORATING THE EUROPEAN AUTO SERVICE PROS
Employment ........................20
Home Services .............. 20-22
THE CLEANING TECHNICIAN INC. For a one-time clean or bi-weekly, I can fit your schedule. Licensed, bonded and insured. Call Lisa, (336) 207-0770.
CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING Gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. windowcleaningnc.com (336) 595-2873.
www.EuroHaus.pro•336.891.3876
NEED HELP?
MAID-2-SHINE. Excellent service, 15 years experience. Free estimates, excellent references. (336) 338-0223.
A-ACTION AIR. A/C Spring checkup, $49.99. Call (336) 382-3750 or (336) 268-6768.
Got Power? Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192.
Do you have ELECTRICAL NEEDS? Call Coble Electric LLC at (336) 209-1486.
Your business should be here! Place your classified ad online at
www.nwobserver.com
FLOORING 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.
The • Totally local since 1996 TheNorthwest NorthwestObserver Observer • Totally local since 1996
FIX YOUR MOWER! Service and repairs. Spring specials. "We do it right." Free pickup & delivery. Call Rick, (336) 501-8681. OLD SCHOOL HOME REPAIR – See display ad on page 14. APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707. GARY’S HANDYMAN HOME SERVICES “Providing value for the home-ownership experience.” Gary Gellert, serving NC’s Piedmont Triad area. Garygellert@gmail.com, (336) 423-8223. GREENERTIMES SMALL ENGINE Sales & Service Center. All types sold and repaired; comm./res. 9428 NC Hwy. 65, Stokesdale. (336) 548-9286 or (336) 312-3844. CLOCK DOCTOR. Free house calls for sick clocks. (336) 643-9931 or (336) 392-4124.
GRADING / HAULING H&L GRADING, LLC. No job too tough or too small. Call us first! We are a full-service grading company that specializes in residential projects. Owner/ operator Timmy Hart has more than 30 years of grading and equipment experience. Fully licensed and insured. Land clearing, debris removal, driveways, French drains and much more. (336) 543-7867. E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Driveways, fill dirt, demolition, lot clearing, excavating, bobcat work, etc. (336) 451-1282. ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt, available. Zane Anthony, (336) 362-4035. DTW GRADING & HAULING, INC. Offering complete bobcat services and hauling. Fill dirt, asphalt millings, stone and more. Daniel Wilson, (336) 339-0212.
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
BRAD'S BOBCAT & HAULING SVCS. LLC. Debris removal, grading, gravel/dirt, driveways, concrete work. (336) 362-3647.
GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490.
MASONRY CONCEPTS, brick, block, stone concrete & repairs. Free est. (336) 988-1022, www.masonryconceptsgso.com.
BEK Paint Co.
GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, fill dirt, gravel, etc. (336) 362-1150.
EXTERIOR GREENSCAPES. Lawn maintenance service. Please call for a free estimate. (336) 682-1456.
MISC. HOME SERVICES/PRODUCTS
David & Judy Long, owners
BEKPaintCompany.com
GUTTERS / SIDING / WINDOWS
HILL LAWNCARE & OUTDOOR SERVICES. Free est. Call (336) 669-5448.
COX POOL SERVICE. Openings, closings, routine maintenance, weekly service. No contracts, free estimates! (336) 327-5122.
WILSON SEAMLESS GUTTERS, new construction, repairs, replacement, leaf guards. Free estimates. (336) 420-0200.
LAWNCARE / LANDSCAPING ORTIZ LANDSCAPING, complete lawn care. Trimming, cleaning, planting & mulch, gutter cleaning, patios & pavers, waterfalls, retaining walls, sidewalks, stonework. Residential and commercial. (336) 280-8981. SOUTHERN CUTZ LAWN CARE, offering complete lawn maintenance services & bush hogging. Nathan Adkins, (336) 430-6086. COLFAX LAWNCARE. Core aeration & seeding. Fertilizing, mowing, trimming, pine needles. Complete lawn care maintenance. Res./comm. Fully insured. Serving the triad for 28 years. (336) 362-5860. LAWN MOWING & CARE. Professional, experienced, dependable. Please call Steve, (336) 264-9082. ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call (336) 382-9875. AQUA SYSTEMS IRRIGATION. Quality irrigation systems. NC licensed contractor. We service all systems. Free estimates. (336) 644-1174. AFFORDABLE LANDSCAPING for all your landscaping needs, including irrigation, installation and repair. Call Joe at J. Gibson Landscaping, an Americanowned and operated small business. Built on capitalism, not socialism. In God we trust. (336) 419-7236. CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, (336) 643-9332. www.carolinaStumpAndTreeServices.com.
WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Lawn maint., landscaping. Irrigation/ landscape contractor. Hardscaping & landscape lighting. 26 years exp. (336) 399-7764. ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. (336) 643-9157. STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Lic./Ins. 40+ years experience. All phases of tree work. Lots & natural area thinning and cleanup. Large shrubbery jobs, chipping. Oak Ridge. Call (336) 643-1119. Hire a local with references. DELIMA LAWNCARE. 24 hours/7 days a week. Free estimates, licensed/insured. Mowing, pruning, mulch/pine straw and much more. Commercial and residential. delimalawncare@live.com. (336) 669-5210. FAY'S LAWNCARE & LANDSCAPING Complete tree removal & trimming. Storm damage clean-up. Landscaping & hardscaping. Insured. Taylor, (336) 458-6491.
MASONRY COLONIAL MASONRY. 40 yrs. exp. Specializing in outdoor living spaces; dry-stack natural stone and flagstone. Let us help you plan your patio, fire pit, fireplace, kitchen – or anything else you would like! Call (336) 949-9019. www.colonialmasonry.com. SOUTHERN STYLE concrete & landscapes. How about a new patio or fire pit? We can help with all of your outdoor living and entertainment spaces! Fire pits, driveways & sidewalks, patios and more! Give us a call at (336) 399-6619 for all your concrete and landscape needs.
WILSON SEPTIC PUMPING & REPAIR. Family owned since 1972. Mention you saw this ad in the NWObserver for a discount. (336) 643-6427. ON EAGLE'S WINGS residential home design/drafting. Call Patti, (336) 605-0519.
Offer a home service? Place your ad online at
PAINTING & DRYWALL LAWSON'S PAINTING. Custom decks, pressure washing, boat docks, block fill, wood repair, stain work, textured ceilings, sheetrock repair. Call (336) 253-9089.
Carlos & Son
PAINTING
Residential • Commercial Licensed & Insured
FREE ESTIMATES
Owner: Carlos Ruiz Cell: 336.669.5210 carlospainting14@live.com PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 40 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. Average BDRM walls $100. Insured. Call Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186. STILL PERFECTION PAINTING. Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com.
The Northwest Observer • Totally 1996 The Northwest Observer • Totally locallocal sincesince 1996
HOME SERVICES
Residential & Commercial
(336) 931-0600
• References Available • Licensed & Insured • All Work Guaranteed
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. FREEMAN PLUMBING – new construction, remodel and repair. For ALL your plumbing needs! (336) 580-4525.
PRESSURE WASHING HOUSE SOFT WASHING, roof soft washing, pressure washing. Check out our 5- star reviews online! Please visit our website, MartinsPressureWashing.com. PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Fully insured. Crystal Clear, www. windowcleaningnc.com or (336) 595-2873. CUTTING EDGE PRESSURE WASHING. Affordable, dependable. Please call anytime for free estimate. (336) 706-0103.
Like us on Facebook and keep up with all the northwest-area news! REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION AFFORDABLE HOME REPAIRS. One call fixes all! A+ with BBB. For a free estimate call (336) 643-1184 or (336) 987-0350.
continued on p. 22
APRIL2 2 - 8,2020 2020 APRIL - 8,
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HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
MISC. WANTED
REAL ESTATE
DOUGLAS CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING, LLC. Custom Builder, sunrooms, garages, additions, kitchens, baths. Licensed & Insured, BBB A+ accredited. Free est. Visit www.douglascr.com or call (336) 413-5050.
KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Residential shingle & metal roofing. Free est. (336) 362-7469.
1/4" WIDE ELASTIC, at least 7 inches long, needed to make surgical masks for local hospitals. Please call Beth in the Oak Ridge area. (336) 644-8155.
LAND FOR SALE
JLB REMODELING, INC. Remodeling and additions. Fully insured. NC GC license #69997. Free est. Call (336) 681-2902 or visit www.jlbremodeling.com. ORTIZ REMODELING – Total restoration & home improvement. Drywall, painting, kitchen cabinets, interior trim & more. Free estimates. (336) 280-8981. PREMIER CONSTRUCTION for all your remodeling/renovation needs. (336) 430-9507. BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, dock work, siding, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Sr. disc., 41 yrs. exp. (336) 362-6343. RENOVATION WORKS, INC. New construction, remodeling, additions, kitchen, bath and decks. We are a locally owned, full-service design and build company, A+ accredited with the BBB. Visit www.myrenovationworks.com or call (336) 427-7391 to start your next project. KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Specializing in room additions, kitchens & baths, garages, vinyl siding and windows, painting, ceramic tile, laminate, hardwood and linoleum floors, and remodeling of all kinds. No job too small. Free est. Call (336) 362-7469.
Over 13,750 of your neighbors keep up with the local news on Facebook. Check us out! facebook.com/northwestobserver
ROOFING CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC. Residential roofing, rubber flat roofs, roof coating, metal roofs. 30 years experience. Call (336) 643-8191 or (336) 268-1908.
22 22
APRIL APRIL22--8, 8,2020 2020
PREMIER ROOFING, LOCALLY OWNED. Catering to all your roofing needs. Call (336) 430-9507 for free assessments.
$$$ – WILL PAY CASH for your junk / wrecked vehicle. For quote, call (336) 552-0328.
BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Lifetime shingle and metal roofing. We finance. Free Estimates. Since 1979. Please call (336) 362-6343.
FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, tillers, ATVs, generators, power washers, go-carts, mini-bikes, golf carts, 4-wheelers, etc. (336) 689-4167.
Got stuff? Need stuff?
NWO Staycation photos!
Place your ad online at
MISC. FOR SALE SEASONED FIREWOOD. $80/pickup truck load, delivered & stacked. (336) 253-7615.
Share your pics of the creative ways you're staying at home with your NWO during the COVID-19 pandemic with our readers! Email your photos to photos@nwobserver.com.
PETS & ANIMAL SVCS. WENDY COLLINS PET SITTING LLC. Bonded & Insured. Follow us on Facebook. Call or text (336) 339-6845.
LOTS, LAND, ACREAGE Gorgeous property! Nothing else like it! Wooded, open and water. Creeks and pond. 4 acres up to 23 acres. You choose. Call (336) 430-9507 anytime.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
We Help Everyone! SELLERS & BUYERS
(336) 643-4248
www.ANewDawnRealty.com
Selling or Renting?
Reach NW Guilford County for $4/line! Place an ad today: nwobserver.com
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Serving northwest Guilford County direct-mailed to 12,000+ homes 1,400 copies for free pickup online 24/7 • 13,750+ followers on Facebook Contact us to begin your TARGETED marketing program (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 | advertising@nwobserver.com
The • Totally local since 1996 TheNorthwest NorthwestObserver Observer • Totally local since 1996
index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS
‘ELVIS’
...continued from p. 5
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With that in mind, the couple is working on their next big release. This time they’re looking to country music artist George Strait for inspiration. Be on the lookout for their version of the performer’s hit “The Fireman.”
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HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Carlotta Lytton, CPA ......................... 14
Old School Home Repair .................. 14
Kimberly Thacker Accounting........... 14
ProStone, Inc. ..................................... 5
Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC...... 2
Stokesdale Heating & Air.................... 3
ART / DANCE
LEGAL SERVICES
Destination Arts................................ 12
Barbour & Williams Law ..................... 6
AUTOMOTIVE SALES / SERVICE EuroHaus .........................................20 Piedmont Truck Tires Inc. ................... 2 Prestige Car Wash ............................ 13
CHILDREN’S SERVICES Guardian Ad Litem ........................... 17 Parents as Teachers Guilford County...15
MEDICAL CARE LeBauer HealthCare ......................... 19 Novant Health – Forsyth Pediatrics ... 12 Oak Ridge Physical Therapy ............. 12 Wake Forest Baptist Health ................ 7
ORTHODONTIC CARE Olmsted Orthodontics ...................... 13 Reynolds Orthodontics ..................... 16
DENTISTRY
PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS
Summerfield Family Dentistry ........... 18
Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital .............. 11
ENTERTAINMENT The Wright Stuff ............................... 14
HEALTH & FITNESS Alpha Weight Loss .............................. 4
HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES BEK Paint Company ......................... 21 Carlos & Son Painting....................... 21 GrowinGreen Inc. ............................. 10
Northwest Animal Hospital ............... 10
REAL ESTATE A New Dawn Realty .........................22 Nicole Gillespie, RE/MAX ................. 11 Ramilya Siegel, Keller Williams ........... 8
RESTAURANTS Bistro 150 ......................................... 13 Rio Grande Mexican Kitchen ............ 13
Nature’s Select ................................... 8
YOUTH SPORTS / CAMPS
New Garden Landscaping & Nursery...3
Oak Ridge Youth Association ............. 5
not to dwell on the negative and be miserable. We’re trying to make the best of what’s going on.”
“Elvis Cannot Leave the Building” Sung to the tune of “Suspicious Minds” Performed by Oak Ridge resident Mike Jobe; video produced by Erica Jobe Photo courtesy of Erica Jobe
During routine business hours Erica (left) and Mike Jobe are mild-mannered, hardworking Realtors. Given a few weeks of social distancing and a lot of extra time on their hands, however, they’re tapping into their creative side while trying to lighten the mood for others. have been too busy for those activities – until now. “What can I say, we were bored,” Erica said. They started out by writing the song and then came up with the persona. Mike is dressed in a costume that somewhat resembles what Elvis might have worn (okay, it looks nothing like the late performer’s dazzling outfits, but use your imagination). One day while her kids were doing their schoolwork, Erica got an old T-shirt of Mike’s that had a permanent mustard stain, tore it up a bit and added some acrylic paint. Mike topped that with a red Frosty the Snowman scarf, added some huge, yellow-tinted glasses and suddenly, he’s “The King.” While sharing some humor, the Jobes want to make sure no one thinks they aren’t taking the virus pandemic seriously. “This is a serious disease. You’ve got to protect yourself,” Mike said. “We just wanted to lighten the mood. We choose
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
We’re trapped in our house We can’t go out Because of COVID-19, baby Why can’t you see What this is doing to me When we have to stay at home all daaaaaaaay We can’t go out together… We’re social distancing And we can’t live our lives Because of COVID-19 So if an old friend I know Stops by to say hello I’m gonna stay 6 feet away So here we go again Social distancing You can see these tears are real I’m crying We can’t go out together We’re social distancing And we can’t live our lives because of COVID-19 Oh, that our lives resume I’m feeling sad and gloom We have to … do our part Because … you know I love you (View video performance at Facebook.com/NorthwestObserver and Facebook.com/EricaEasterJobe)
APRIL 2 - 8, 2020
23
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PAID
Postal Patron
Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22
PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310 • (336) 644-7035
ECRWSS
In the midst of COVID-19, Leslie Burger of Summerfield decided to enjoy some time outside along the Blue Ridge Parkway. She packed up a few necessary supplies for a beautiful day in the great outdoors, which of course included the latest issue of the NWO.
shared the NorthStephen and Cam Louie of Stokesdale sled team in Brecktheir of west Observer with the lead dogs essed with news of impr not enridge, Colorado. The dogs were that Breckengiven k, wee Stokesdale’s “big” snowstorm that uary snow. Febr of es inch ridge was approaching a record 300
John and Karen Loucks took their Northwest Observer with them to Lihue, Kauai, during a trip to celebrate their birthdays. Kauai is known as the Garden Isle and is the oldest of the Hawaiian Island chain.
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