Jan. 7 - 20, 2021
bringing the local news home to northwest Guilford County since 1996
COVID-19 disrupts, but doesn’t halt plans in NW Guilford Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Stokesdale advance projects even as the virus outbreak alters life for many people by CHRIS BURRITT NW GUILFORD – Summerfield is getting a new town hall. Oak Ridge is expanding its Town Park. And Stokesdale is preparing for a surge of residential construction. Northwest Guilford leaders made progress on major initiatives last year despite life being anything but normal. Even as the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines is a promising development, the coronavirus outbreak has been widely disruptive. It has altered the operations of local governments and shut down schools, forcing students to study
remotely and parents to work from home. Business owners and workers struggled amid the slowdown of the economy, hurt by stay-at-home orders and job losses and cutbacks that have crimped spending.
“We have another six months of tough haul here even with the vaccines,” Oak Ridge Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman told fellow council members last month. “Hopefully, we’ll have a great new year.” Relatively few people in northwestern Guilford County have died from complications of the coronavirus, according to state statistics, but the illness complicated life for
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County commissioners to discuss Summerfield Farms Village proposal by CHRIS BURRITT
GREENSBORO – Developer David Couch’s proposal for developing his 650 acres around Summerfield Farms on Pleasant Ridge Road is the topic of a work session by the Guilford County Board of Commissioners this Thursday, Jan. 7. Greensboro lawyer Tom Terrell is slated to represent Couch during the 3:30 p.m. session, according to the meeting’s agenda. Terrell appeared with Couch at the Summerfield Town Council meeting last September when the developer unveiled his plans for Summerfield Farms Village. Since then, the lawyer has represented the developer in meetings with Summerfield, county and city of Greensboro officials. Couch’s proposal relies on the county, which would
create a special tax district to charge property owners in the proposed commercial/residential development – not other Summerfield taxpayers – for water and sewer services. According to Couch’s plan, the city of Greensboro would extend water and sewer lines to his property in Summerfield. The meeting is scheduled for the Old County Courthouse in downtown Greensboro. It is closed to the public due to COVID-19 gathering restrictions.
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IN THIS ISSUE News in brief .....................................................2 Committee recommends easements .........3 Your Questions .................................................4 Signs such as this one serve as reminders to citizens to lock their vehicles and keep valuables out of sight. “Lock it or Lose it” signs were recently placed at Oak Ridge Town Park again after three vehicles in the last two weeks were broken into while parked there. See p. 4 for details.
Pets & Critters ...................................................9 Ferret provides entertaining company ......10 Whiskey for Whiskers set for Jan. 31 ............ 11 NWO Kids’ Korner ....................................12, 20 Pet Adoptions................................................. 13 Crime/Incident Report ................................. 14 Community Calendar .................................. 15 Youth Sync: Student Profiles......................... 18 Youth / School News ..................................... 21 Early College at Guilford students tutor .....23 Grins and Gripes ...........................................24 Classifieds ......................................................27 Index of Advertisers ......................................30
want to watch, hear? Watch the session remotely using the GoToWebinar platform – to connect, type: www.attendee. gotowebinar.com/register/7942654707875270415. You can also listen to the meeting by calling 1 (877) 309-2071, using access code 913-359-288.
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Oak Ridge Town Manager Bill Bruce will update the council at its Jan. 7 meeting on plans to renovate the historic Redmon house at the corner of Linville Road and Lisa Drive; the house is located on Oak Ridge Town Park property.
by CHRIS BURRITT OAK RIDGE – Town Manager Bill Bruce plans to update the Town Council during its monthly meeting this Thursday, Jan. 7, on plans for renovating the historic Redmon house on Town Park property. Hiring of an architectural firm to help plan for the renovation of the white clapboard house at Linville Road and Lisa Drive is one of Oak Ridge’s major initiatives this year. The architect will assist the town’s Parks and Recreation (P&R) Advisory Board and the Historic Preservation Commission in deciding how to renovate the structure for a community meeting space, according to Bruce’s budget message for the fiscal year ending June 30.
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Bruce’s update will help the council decide how to proceed with the renovation of the house, Mayor Ann Schneider said in an interview earlier this week. In other business, the council plans to ask the P&R board to recommend options for naming the Whitaker prop-
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erty, the nearly 60 acres on Linville Road slated for an expansion of Town Park. Located behind Town Hall, the tract is going to be developed with a walking trail, multi-purpose fields, bathrooms and other improvements, starting this year. The council also plans to conduct a public hearing as part of its consideration of a request to rezone nearly 25 acres northwest of Oak Ridge from RS-40 (Residential) to agricultural. The property owners are Tammy Gardner, a real estate agent, and her husband, Bryan, who about five years ago planned to build houses on the tract on Warner Road east of Happy Hill Road in Oak Ridge’s extraterritorial jurisdiction. To accommodate the Gardners’ request, the council rezoned the property from agricultural to residential. Now the couple has decided against building on the land, Tammy said in an interview last month, so they’re asking the council to reverse the zoning, a move backed by the town’s Planning
and Zoning Board. The tract is part of 87 acres on which the Gardners live.
park, according to a Dec. 30 memo from Bruce.
Separately, the council will hear a report from the town’s Conservation Easement Committee about its research into preserving farmland, open spaces and historic resources. It sought the assistance of the Piedmont Land Conservancy, Preservation North Carolina and Preservation Greensboro in preparing the report.
The council will also consider approving the first reading of a proposed ordinance to renew the town’s waste collection franchise agreement with GFL Environmental Services (formerly Waste Industries).
The council will also consider renewing the town’s memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Guilford County regarding stewardship and management of the Cascades Preserve. The preserve, which is a park owned by the county, is located northwest of Oak Ridge and serves as the starting point of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail through town. Bruce recommended renewal of the MOU, which he said is “substantially the same” as the agreement adopted by the two jurisdictions in 2014. If adopted, it would be effective for another five years and wouldn’t obligate the town to additional spending for management of the
Committee recommends easements to protect open space, historic structures
Extension of the three-year agreement through March 31, 2024, requires approval of the first reading, followed by a second reading during the council’s meeting Feb. 4. The council also plans to consider appointing Stuart Mease to the Finance Committee and Michael Bell to the Board of Adjustment.
want to participate? Thursday’s meeting will be conducted remotely using the Zoom application, due to COVID-19 public gathering restrictions. Instructions for participating in the meeting are explained on the meeting agenda, which can be viewed on the town’s website at oakridgenc.com (click on the Town Council tab on the homepage).
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A Conservation Easement Committee has prepared recommendations for actions aimed at preserving Oak Ridge’s “unique character, historic resources and open spaces.” The recommendations will be presented at Oak Ridge Town Council’s Jan. 7 meeting. See details on p. 8
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Driving with hazard lights on is not illegal in North Carolina, although drivers are urged to instead consider finding a safe place to pull off the road in situations such as severe weather, or to use their headlights, reduce their speed, stay to the right and keep as much distance as possible between themselves and other drivers.
Is driving with hazard lights on illegal in North Carolina? According to AAA, about half of all U.S. states make it illegal to drive anywhere with your hazard lights on. It is not illegal in North Carolina to do so. “However, it is important to ask yourself if your particular situation truly warrants the use of hazard lights,” writes an attorney with Greensboro/WinstonSalem-based Daggett Shuler Law on the firm’s website. “Sometimes it may be better just to utilize your headlights and
wipers, reduce speed, stay to the right, and leave more distance between you and the car in front of you.” Drivers should note some of the safety issues related to driving with hazard lights on: they are typically used as a sign for emergency services that someone is in need of assistance, so may unintentionally pull a first
responder away from a true emergency; driving with hazard lights on eliminates the ability to use your turn signals as you normally would, therefore putting other drivers at risk; and driving with hazard lights on can distract other drivers and confuse them as to your intentions, i.e., whether you are braking or turning.
Smash and grabs at park serve as reminder Residents advised to keep valuables out of sight OAK RIDGE – The crime rate in northwest Guilford County remains relatively low, but criminals are still ever-present and waiting for their opportunity to make someone their next victim. Such was the case on Sunday, Dec. 20, when a local resident reported to the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office that someone stole several items from her vehicle while it was parked at Oak Ridge Town Park at about 2 p.m. On the afternoon of Tuesday, Jan. 5, two more cars at Oak Ridge Town Park were broken into; both were parked in the parking lot along Lisa Drive. Lt. Jeremy Fuller of the sheriff’s District 1 Office confirmed that in the Jan. 5 “smash and grab” incidents, the suspect broke the windows out of the passenger’s door of the vehicles and grabbed the pocketbooks that were visible from the outside. Fuller reminds citizens that two things must happen for a crime to occur: “motive and opportunity.”
“We can’t do anything about the motive, but we can reduce the opportunity for a crime to be committed against us,” Fuller said, reminding citizens to always remove valuables out of parked vehicles if possible – and if not, remove them from plain view.
“It’s just habit, and breaking habits are the hardest thing – but you have to remind yourself to ask, ‘What can I see in my car that someone else might be interested in?’” Fuller said. Fuller added that citizens should also not wait until they get to their destination to put their valuables out of sight, when someone could be watching, rather to secure the valuables out of sight in advance.
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Extraordinary impact “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” – Jane Goodall
‘Blessed’ and wired to serve With deep faith and a servant’s heart, Terri Johnson is fiercely committed to helping those in need by ANNETTE JOYCE
Samaritans and asked them to help produce it.”
STOKESDALE – Stokesdale resident Terri Johnson says her faith in Jesus provides the fuel for her servant’s heart.
With the local ministry’s support, Johnson organized the live nativity, which featured a WWII searchlight shooting high into the sky and took place at Stokesdale Christian Church. As a result of the collaboration, members of GSM encouraged Johnson to join the organization.
“Jesus motivates me,” Johnson said. “He has blessed me and I’m going to serve others as He commands me to. There’s always somebody to serve, but we have to be open to it and listen to Him.” A typical day for Johnson is marked by a whirlwind of activity focused on family, church and community. Besides being a dedicated homemaker, mom and grandmother, she volunteers tirelessly with her church, Bethel United Methodist, and is probably best known for her work with Good Samaritan Ministries (GSM), a Christian outreach ministry of churches based in Stokesdale and neighboring towns that assists those in need.
Over the years, Johnson has served as the ministry’s treasurer and coordinator for its annual Angel Tree, which fulfills Christmas gift wishes for children in need. Although the annual project requires countless hours of time in the weeks and days leading up to Christmas, not to mention extensive organizational skills, Johnson pulls it off each year with renewed dedication.
Johnson became involved with GSM about 20 years ago after she read an article about a live nativity and became intrigued by the organizers’ use of a large search light designed to draw people to the site.
Because of COVID, the Angel Tree where people pick up their “angels” (children’s Christmas wishes) couldn’t be set up in its usual location this past holiday season and Johnson said she was especially grateful when Pineapple Porch, Stokesdale’s newest downtown business, offered to place the Angel Tree in their shop.
“I really wanted to do (the same thing) but needed to get more people involved and have it at a place that was visible,” Johnson said. “So, I went to Good
While Johnson isn’t keen on calling attention to her service to others, her husband, Commie Johnson, doesn’t mind doing so.
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“The Angel Tree is a big project, but it lasts for a short time,” he said. “Terri spends a lot more time during the year making sure that people’s power bills are paid and that they have food on the table. It’s almost like a full-time job.” Johnson grew up in a strong Christian family and lives next door to her childhood home. A graduate of Northwest Guilford High School, she worked for a short period as a dental hygienist after graduating from GTCC. She and Commie were high school sweethearts and have been married for 42 years; the couple has three children and eight grandchildren.
Thanks to Tire Max for sponsoring this monthly feature in which we recognize “ordinary” people in our readership area who make an extraordinary impact on others. To nominate an “ordinary” person for this feature, email editor@nwobserver.com with their name, a detailed description of how they positively impact others, and your contact info.
DISRUPTED, NOT HALTED ...continued from p. 1
many people. Public gatherings were severely restricted, and plans for annual community events such as RidgeFest, Oak Ridge’s biggest festival, and the Founders’ Day celebration in Summerfield that typically draw large crowds were scuttled. Stokesdale canceled its annual Christmas parade and instead sponsored a Christmas Cruise-Thru. The event was described by Deanna Ragan, one of the event’s organizers, as “exactly what we hoped it would be – something bright, fun and hopeful in a not-sobright and fun year.” The virus has claimed the lives of seven people among 1,462 cases in northwestern Guilford County, as of this past Monday, Jan. 4, according to a North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services tally covering the three postal zip codes in Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Stokesdale. Countywide, there have been 318 deaths and 26,026 cases. Uncertainty lingers as a rising number of cases in recent weeks prompted Guilford County Schools (GCS) last week to delay by two weeks the return of middle school students to the classroom. The first group of sixth graders who were scheduled to return this Thursday, Jan. 7, is now going back
to classes Thursday, Jan. 21, according to GCS. Other middle school students slated to resume in-person learning Monday, Jan. 11, are now headed back Monday, Jan. 25. Meanwhile, the students are continuing with online learning. Even though middle schools have been prepared for the return of students, GCS said the delay gives administrators more time to review COVID-19 data as well as science and health protocols relevant to this age group. High schools are scheduled to reopen for in-person classroom instruction Thursday, Jan. 21. Elementary school students returned from the holiday break for inperson classes this past Tuesday, Jan. 5. Despite the increasing number of COVID-19 cases, Oak Ridge Elementary School Principal Penny Loschin told the Town Council in an email last month, “We know if we continue to do our part and the community does its part, we will get through this together and see a decrease in the numbers.” The Oak Ridge council plans to meet remotely this Thursday, after it had resumed monthly meetings in Town Hall with limited attendance in October. In Summerfield, the Town Council last month set plans into motion for a new town hall with the hiring of Samet Corp. to manage construction of the estimated $3.5 million building and architectural firm Creech & Associates to design it.
The town’s contract with Greensboro-based Samet specified the location of the proposed 9,000-square-foot facility: 13.3 acres owned by the town along U.S. 220 north of N.C. 150. The current town hall on Summerfield Road is just west of the site. Efforts to construct a new town hall reach back to 2004, when town leaders prepared – but didn’t pursue – architectural plans for a building on the town’s property on Summerfield Road at Rhondan Road, next to Fire Station No. 9, according to Town Manager Scott Whitaker. Separately, the Summerfield council voted unanimously in December to authorize Whitaker to sign documents transferring ownership of the Summerfield Community Center on Centerfield Road to the town from its owner, Summerfield Community Center Inc. The transfer also includes 16.8 acres containing the core of the town’s park, a lake and parking lots. In late 2019 the owner offered to deed the property to the town, which rents space in the building for council and other meetings. Mayor BJ Barnes said he envisions the town renovating the space and helping recoup expenses by renting the facility for family and community gatherings as the previous community center owner did. In Oak Ridge, planning for the expansion of Town Park onto the Whitaker property is moving ahead, despite a funding setback. Town leaders learned in September Oak Ridge’s bid for a $450,000 matching state
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grant had fallen short. After learning its application had been turned down, the council decided to apply again in 2021 for a matching grant from the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF). The funds would help Oak Ridge defray costs for grading and installing utilities and building multi-purpose fields, a playground, walking trails and other improvements on the Whitaker property. The tract abuts Town Hall property on Linville Road across from the existing Town Park. The town applied for the $450,000 matching grant, as part of its decision to spend as much as $1.95 million over three years on developing the Whitaker property for recreational use; spending the full amount hinged on the town being awarded the grant. Meanwhile, town staff plans to create a parking area off of Scoggins Road to make it more convenient for people to park their vehicles before walking and running on the trail circling the Whitaker property. The property is also the site of a proposed veterans’ memorial. The Oak Ridge council went against the wishes of equestrian enthusiasts who wanted the trail on the Whitaker property to accommodate horseback riding. However, they’re going to get their wish with the development of 115 acres as a public trails preserve in Summerfield for horseback riding, running and walking. Last month, the Piedmont Land Conservancy (PLC) completed its $575,000 purchase of the property – known as Bandera Farms – on Bunch Road at Interstate 73. Contributions of $82,500 by Summerfield and $41,250 by Oak Ridge paid for the rolling, wooded tract, along with funding from the city of Greensboro and Guilford County and a state grant totaling $186,900. “This will be a horse trail preserve,” Palmer McIntyre, the PLC’s conservation planner, told the Oak Ridge Town Council in November. The property is bordered by Reedy Fork Creek, creating a floodplain that will
eventually accommodate the Piedmont Greenway. McIntyre said bicycles will be allowed on the 19-mile trail that will run from Greensboro to Winston-Salem through Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Kernersville. In one of the strongest signs of economic strength, the real estate market in northwest Guilford rebounded after skidding last spring as the spread of COVID-19 slowed housing activity. Builders and real estate agents reported brisk demand in the second half of the year, fueled by historically low interest rates, while contractors stayed busy renovating houses for people spending more time at home.
“Business has been very strong,” said Betty Smith, president of Smith Marketing Inc. in Summerfield, explaining she sold houses to families looking for more space for children to study and parents to work. Unrelated to COVID-19, a possible increase in residential development around Piedmont Triad International (PTI) Airport is on the horizon. A new proposal by the city of Greensboro’s Planning Department seeks to relax noise-related residential development rules around the airport while continuing to protect homeowners in areas where airplane noise is the loudest. The proposal also aims to preserve land in close proximity to the airport for future economic development tied to aerospace. In recent years, PTI officials have stepped up efforts to recruit companies that would complement existing tenants such as FedEx and Honda Aircraft Co. City officials are trying to balance the interests of property owners, developers and PTI ahead of a possible decision by the Greensboro City Council early next year to update zoning regulations around the airport. The city’s Zoning Commission plans
to discuss the topic during its Jan. 20 meeting. Once the commission votes on the proposal, it will forward its recommendation to the City Council for a final decision. In Stokesdale, town leaders took steps to prepare for expanding its water system to serve residents of several residential subdivisions on the horizon. Engineering firm Hazen & Sawyer is pulling together a map of all the subdivisions in progress so the town can assess future water system needs. Mayor John Flynt told fellow council members in October that Stokesdale has a “ton” of homes on the horizon and developers “knocking on the door all the time.” “If we’re going to double the water customers in the next three or four years, we need to plan,” he said. The prospect of Stokesdale also serving water customers outside of town limits was a topic of discussion at the council’s Dec. 10 meeting; the council voted unanimously to rezone for residential development nearly 12 acres on
Coldwater Road, part of a 77-acre tract that’s mostly in Forsyth County. Before the vote, Flynt answered questions from other council members, explaining that developers would be responsible for paying for the extension of water lines to their residential projects. Foy asked the mayor whether Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities, which provides water to Stokesdale, was agreeable to the town selling water outside of its limits and Flynt answered yes, saying Winston-Salem/Forsyth County had actually approached Stokesdale and requested it sell water to the residents in the new development on Coldwater Road. Questioned by Councilman Jimmy Landreth as to when and who made the decision to service those homes, Flynt acknowledged he had agreed for Stokesdale to supply water to the Coldwater Road development without consulting other council members, and had done so at the request of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities.
... continued on p. 30
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COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS EASEMENTS ...continued from p. 3
by CHRIS BURRITT OAK RIDGE – A committee is urging Oak Ridge leaders to take steps to help property owners establish easements for the preservation of open space and historic structures. Setting aside money in Oak Ridge’s budget – starting with $20,000 next fiscal year – would reduce costs for property owners who want to use conservation and preservation easements to protect their property and structures, according to the final draft report by the town’s Conservation Easement Committee. The Town Council plans to discuss the report during its meeting this Thursday, Jan. 7. Preserving open spaces and historic sites is a goal of Oak Ridge’s strategic
plan. To help achieve that aim, the council created the committee in 2019, appointing a member of the Planning and Zoning Board, the chair of the Historic Preservation Commission and a resident of the town’s historic district; also, the town planning director serves as staff liaison and Mayor Ann Schneider serves as council liaison. Easements can play “an important role in preserving Oak Ridge’s ‘unique character, historic resources and open spaces,’ as articulated in our town vision,” the report said. It described preservation easements for historic structures and conservation easements for open space as “the only tool that can protect properties from future changes or development in perpetuity.”
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That’s because the Town Council can’t use zoning rules to prevent development, and historic district restrictions and most landmark designations cannot prevent demolition of historic structures, the report said. The committee recommended several actions by the council between now and June 30, the end of the current fiscal year. The committee said it should be established as “a longerstanding or standing committee” to
continue exploring the use of easements. The report said the committee should collaborate with organizations such as the Piedmont Land Conservancy and Oak Ridge’s Mountainsto-Sea Trail Committee to assemble property for future trails. It also said town leaders should consider placing an easement on the front section of the Whitaker property or on portions of Town Park.
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January 2021 a monthly feature of the Northwest Observer
Julie Skaife of photo Kernersville shared this cat, old ar-ye of her beloved 18 been s ha o Lola. Julie said Lola, wh ce COVID, has working from home sin all things had to adjust to doing a ed virtually and has ne ed lot of tech support!
Sir Charles of Oak Ridge settled down for his mid-morning nap after exhausting his 14-yearold self with a gentle stroll in the park with his owner, Chris Rees. Charles’ admirers (and subjects) at the park include Crazy Daisy, Rooney the Loo ney, Birdie the fellow Aussie, Big Sam, Murphy, blue-eyed Honey, and Oreo the Unpredictable. Charles wanted to convey his felicitations to the entire group.
This beautiful doe and her fawn were seen from the kitchen window of Stan Gilliam’s home in Oak Ridge. The pair enjoyed some water from the Gilliams’ birdbath on a surprisingly warm winter afternoon.
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Ferret provides companionship, entertainment by ANNETTE JOYCE Kynlie Shepherd came up with a way to add some variety to her virtual learning schedule after finding herself spending too much time staring at a computer – she asked for a pet ferret.
Kynlie became interested in ferrets after being around her best friend’s ferret, Phoebe. “(Phoebe) was always playing with me and I got attached,” said the 13-year-old Colfax resident. Last November, Kynlie brought home her own ferret, Willow Grace, and the 3-month-old kit has since provided her vivacious young owner with hours of entertainment and companionship. Willow weighs less than a pound and likely won’t gain more than another pound and a half. Adult male ferrets usually weigh more, between 1 and 4 pounds, and measure between 18 to 24 inches. Including her tail, Willow stretches around 15 inches in length and could possibly add about another three inches. You might think such a tiny crea-
ture wouldn’t need much food, but you’d be wrong. Kynlie said her little blonde and chocolate ferret is constantly eating. A meat eater, Willow gets a diet of kitten food mixed with chicken broth. Treats include chicken kitten treats and an occasional hardboiled egg yolk. “She really likes those,” Kynlie said.
Photos by Annette Joyce/NWO
For Kynlie Shepherd, her ferret, Willow Grace – a fireball of activity and mischief – is the perfect pet.
Besides making sure Willow gets enough to eat and drink, Kynlie is responsible for maintaining the ferret’s habitat and said she enjoys the routine chores that go along with taking care of her young charge. This involves keeping Willow’s cage clean by wiping it down once a week and taking it apart once a month for a deeper clean. Kynlie also handwashes the kit’s soft baby blankets and ferret hammock and makes sure Willow’s litter box is fresh. Willow doesn’t mind being in her cage, where she catches up on her beauty sleep. However, as is typical of ferrets, she also needs time to have free reign of her domain. For Willow, that means being able to roam around Kynlie’s room.
“The week I got her, I lost her,” Kynlie recalled. “I thought I had shut my bedroom door but didn’t. When I went back to my room, she was gone.”
Kynlie enjoys the antics of the swift-moving creature as she tumbles around the room, looking for places
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10
JAN. 7 - 20, 2021
to hide and playing with her toys. One of her favorite toys is a flattened stuffed toy that she stole from the family dog. Early on, Kynlie discovered that ferrets are quite the escape artists.
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
In a panic, Kynlie searched her room for the sneaky little kit, but there was no sign of her. Having scooted into another bedroom, Willow was later found burrowed down inside a closet. Ferrets are notorious for squeezing through any small openings – underneath doors, around plumbing and
Whiskey for Whiskers
through dryer vents – and are capable of flattening themselves to inch through these spaces. Along with keeping her door shut, Kynlie has added a flap at the bottom of the door to ensure that Willow stays within her territory. Kynlie likes to snuggle and nap with her furry friend, but quickly found out it wasn’t a good idea to allow Willow to sleep with her at night. After being awakened a few times by Willow nibbling on her toes and fingers, Kynlie decided to relegate her back to her cage so they could both get a peaceful night’s sleep. Although she admits the cute little ferret’s hyperactivity can sometimes be a bit much, Kynlie has found Willow to be the perfect pet companion.
A fundraiser supporting Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network
designed to benefit its organization.
Since 2006, Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network has been dedicated to fostering animals of all kinds – dogs, cats, goats, snakes, emus, horses, guinea pigs and more – and finding them loving forever homes. At last count, they’ve rehomed over 3,500 animals since the nonprofit formed 14 years ago.
Whiskey For Whiskers, a bourbon-tasting event, will take place Sunday, Jan. 31, at GIA: Eat.Drink.Listen, a unique restaurant that touts itself as “Greensboro’s most visible speak-easy.” After Hours Veterinary Emergency Clinic in Greensboro is the event’s lead sponsor.
want to go?
That’s quite an accomplishment for this Stokesdale-based facility, and one that relies on the generosity and support of donors.
Two seatings are available – one at 4 p.m. and the other at 6 p.m. GIA: Eat.Drink.Listen is located at 1941 New Garden Road, Suite 208, in Greensboro. The cost of this fun-filled event is $50 per person; tickets can be purchased at www.red-dog-farm.square.site/ or by calling Red Dog Farm at (336) 288-7006.
Unfortunately, because of the pandemic the organization was forced to cancel its 2020 fundraisers. However, Red Dog Farm is thankful to kick off the New Year by bringing back a special event
As social gathering restrictions are subject to change due to COVID-19, it’s a good idea to check for updates regarding this and any other upcoming events.
share your pet or animal photos! email: photos@nwobserver.com
Family-owned since 1968
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We Service ALL Brands | 24-hour Emergency Service High Point 336-883-3903
Greensboro 336-294-8044
Winston-Salem 336-727-0120
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
EanesComfort.com JAN. 7 - 20, 2021
11
FERRETS WORD SEARCH See if you can find these “ferret words” that come from the pet article on page 10 and the fun facts to the left.
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In this issue’s pet feature article on page 10, we read about Kynlie Shepherd and her ferret, Willow Grace. Learn more interesting facts about ferrets here.
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r e n r o K ’ s d Ki Ferrets... did you know?
• Baby ferrets (less than a year old) are called kits. A female ferret over a year who has not been spayed is called a jill, while a spayed adult female is called a sprite. An adult male who has not been neutered is called a hob and a neutered adult male is called a gib. A group of ferrets is called a business. • In the United States, from about 1860 until World War II, ferrets were largely used by grain stores to ward off rodents. It wasn’t until around 1980 - 1990 that they became popular pets. • When hunting in the wild, ferrets will perform a hypnotic dance that puts their prey into a trance. Domestic ferrets will also dance, although they use it for play instead of hunting. This dance often includes arching their backs, puffing their tails and moving from side to side. • All ferrets are born white and then get their actual coloring at around three weeks of age. • In London, ferret racing is a popular sport. Ferrets will compete with one another to be the quickest to run through a drain pipe as spectators cheer them on.
KITS
BUSINESS
SPRITE
DANCE
LITTLE THIEF
RACING
GIB
HIDING
WILLOW GRACE
Thank you to Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital for making this week’s Kids’ Korner possible
When your pet ages, disease or illness may come along with the years. Call us to schedule a
preventative senior work-up. (336) 665-1286 • bel-airevet.com
Serving the NW Triad area since 1991
M-F 8-5:30 • Sat 8-12 • Drop-offs as early as 7:30am
Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network SARAH Sarah, a 6-month-old female guinea pig, is a sweet, adorable girl who just had three babies that she took good care of until they were all adopted. She’s now ready to spend some time alone or possibly try bonding with another female guinea pig in the near future. If interested in adopting Sarah, please fill out an application at www.reddogfarm.com.
RANGER
Ranger, a 3-year-old lab mix, was found wandering the mountain trails by a wonderful family who took him in and gave him a place to stay while searching for his owners. When Ranger joined our foster program nine months ago, he was shy and reserved; thanks to his finder and foster family, his script is being re-written. Ranger has spent the last three months in basic training to learn to be a dog, and is now ready for his forever home. He is still shy and will need ongoing confidence boosting and training, but he’s come so far from where he began. His trainer says his ideal home would be a single woman or a “chill” couple. Learn more about Ranger or apply to adopt him at www.reddogfarm.com.
For more info or to apply to adopt Sarah, Ranger or other animals in need of loving homes, visit www.reddogfarm.com
Guilford County Animal Shelter DORA Are you a fan of Dora the Explorer? Well, cats are known for their curiosity, which makes them natural explorers, and Dora the cat is ready to explore her new forever home with you. About 3 years old, Dora has years of love to share. This spayed blackand-white kitty with the striking gold eyes is ready to go home with you today – she’s tired of watching Dora the Explorer videos online and is ready for a real adventure – with you. Please ask for Dora by ID#A024468, and explore the unconditional love of a rescue animal.
SASHA
Sasha is a diminutive for Alexander or Alexandra, and an internet search reveals that a dog named Sasha served as a bomb detection dog for the British Army in Afghanistan. This Sasha is about 7 years old, and although she hasn’t been in combat, she’s ready for retirement to a loving home. A spayed red-and-white pit bull terrier-beagle mix, Sasha enjoys reading Mary Renault’s biographical novels about Alexander the Great, but she’d much rather come home with you than head out to conquer the world. Please ask for Sasha by ID#A024136.
Guilford County Animal Shelter
4525 W. Wendover Ave., Greensboro • Mon-Sat 12-6pm (closed Tues), Sun 1-5pm To check animals’ availability, call (336) 641-3400 or visit
www.guilfordcountync.gov/our-county/animal-services/animal-shelter
We offer one guarantee: 100% customer satisfaction
Pet Adoptions
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JAN. 7 - 20, 2021
13
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.
move past the pain
ASSAULT/ AGGRAVATED ASSAULT
Dec. 17 | A resident of the 500 block of S. Bunker Hill Road in Colfax reported an unknown suspect shot a firearm into his home between 12:30 and 9 a.m.
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Dec. 18, 27 | A 34-year-old female was arrested in the 200 block of N. Bunker Hill Road in Colfax for breaking and entering, trespassing and assault on a child under age 12; on Dec. 27 a resident of Oak Ridge filed a domestic violence protection order against the woman. Dec. 25 | A resident of the 8600 block of Brandy Trace Lane in Stokesdale (near N.C. 65) reported a known suspect pushed and hit her between Dec. 24 at 10:30 p.m. and Dec. 25 at 12:50 a.m.
BURGLARY
serving you locally
336-333-6443
14
JAN. 7 - 20, 2021
336-702-5635
Dec. 17 | An employee of Jerry W. Wray, a CPA tax preparer in the 7000 block of Summerfield Road in Summerfield, reported an unknown suspect unlawfully entered the business sometime between Dec. 15 and Dec. 17. Jan. 2 | A resident of the 3500 block of Oak Ridge Road in Summerfield reported an unknown suspect entered his home by unknown means about 4:40 a.m. but nothing appeared to be stolen.
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
DRIVING WHILE IMPAIRED
Dec. 18 | A 19-year-old male was arrested in the 100 block of the I-840 E interchange in northwest Greensboro for driving while impaired. Dec. 23 | A 32-year-old female was arrested in the 2800 block of Oak Ridge Road/E. Harrell Road in Oak Ridge for driving while impaired and also cited for failure to maintain lane control.
DRUGS
Dec. 28 | A 31-year-old male was arrested in the 8000 block of Marketplace Drive in Oak Ridge for possession of a Schedule I controlled substance and also cited for possession of drug paraphernalia. Dec. 29 | A 35-year-old female was cited in the 8000 block of Linville Road/Caison Drive in Oak Ridge for possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance, possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to maintain lane control, an expired inspection certificate and operating a motor vehicle with no financial responsibility. Jan. 4 | A 40-year-old male was arrested in the 7900 block of N.C. 68 N in Stokesdale for resisting/obstructing a police officer and also cited for possession of a Schedule VI controlled
...continued on p. 26
mark your
calendar
THURSDAY, JAN. 7 Town Council meeting | Oak Ridge Town Council will hold its first meeting of 2021 on Jan. 7, beginning 7 p.m. In light of the pandemic and social gathering guidelines, the meeting will take place virtually via Zoom. See News Briefs on p. 2 for highlights of meeting agenda items, and visit www.oakridgenc.com for a complete meeting agenda and link to the Zoom meeting.
MONDAY, JAN. 11 Northwest Guilford Woman’s Club | Northwest Guilford Woman’s Club, a non-profit service organization whose members include women from all walks of life, will hold its monthly meeting Jan. 11 via Zoom. For more information about the organi-
Stay
zation, visit the group’s Facebook page. To attend the upcoming virtual Zoom meeting as a guest, email terri.johnson@allentate.com for a link.
TUESDAY, JAN. 12 Town Council meeting | Summerfield Town
Council members will gather for their first meeting of 2021 Jan. 12, beginning 6:30 p.m. at Summerfield Community Center, but in light of the pandemic and social gathering guidelines, citizens will not be invited to attend in person; the meeting will be recorded live on the Town of Summerfield’s Facebook page. Those wishing to speak during the Public Comments portion of the meeting are asked to call Lance Heater, Summerfield’s town clerk, at (336) 643-8655, or email clerk@summerfieldnc.gov in advance. For a complete meeting agenda, visit www.summerfieldnc.gov.
THURSDAY, JAN. 14 Town Council meeting | Stokesdale Town Council will meet Jan. 14, 7 p.m. via Zoom. A meeting agenda and link to the Zoom meeting will be posted at www.stokesdale.org prior to the meeting.
distant but not disconnected:
Carlotta Lytton
, CPA, PC
Individual & Corporate Tax Returns Specializing in Payroll & Accounting for Small Businesses 7805 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale clyttoncpa@bellsouth.net
phone: (336) 644-7033 fax: (336) 644-7038
Pet Dental Health Month King’s Crossing
Animal Hospital Full-service small animal hospital dedicated to compassionate and complete care for your family pets
More info: stokesdale@stokesdale.org.
WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, JAN. 20, 28 Blood drives | Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden
will host Red Cross blood drives Wednesday, Jan. 20, 12:30 to 5 p.m., and Thursday, Jan. 28, 12 noon to 4:30 p.m., at 215 S. Main St. in Kernersville. To schedule an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code “Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden” or call (336) 996-7888.
SATURDAYS, JAN. 23 & FEB. 6 Drive-Through Cookie Booth | Girl Scout Troop 2469 will have a drive-through cookie booth set up at Stokesdale United Methodist Church on Jan. 23 and Feb. 6, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Cookies are $5 per box and can be ordered and paid for in advance at Bit.ly/2X7ZwM6 for faster curbside pickup.
WE’LL BE BACK JAN. 21 (the Northwest Observer is offered in print the first, third and fifth Thursday of each month)
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JAN. 7 - 20, 2021
15
Oak Ridge Com
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area new residents with quality,system affordable hair care along automated with convenient daytime, evening and weekend operating hours to fit within their busy schedules Owned by northwest Greensboro native Richard White, the family hair salon specializes in haircuts for adults and children of all ages, along with perms and updos for special occasions such as weddings, holiday parties and proms. Manager Becky Keaton and assistant manager Brittany Fowler oversee the salon’s daily operations, and the franchise is run by White’s niece and vice president of operations, Courtney Lowrance. The seven professional stylists at Great Clips in Oak Ridge have a wealth of experience in haircuts and styling and strive to offer their clients the most up-to-date styles while ensuring they can be easily managed. Great Clips is founded on the belief that great results
can be provided at a reasonable p ing everyday low prices, twice a y customers an opportunity to take savings with its “Great Haircut Sa Great Clips is open seven day ments are required, but the salon that offers an online check-in serv tomers to add their names to a wa An active business participant Great Clips supports local schools table events that impact area yout “We realize that this has been one, and we would like to express customers who have continued to during 2020,” Lowrance said. “We visit us and assure you we are foll in order to provide a safe and hea customers and stylists. We hope t
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price. Along with offeryear the salon gives its advantage of even more ale.” ys a week. No appointhas a free mobile app vice, which allows cusaitlist before they arrive. t in the community, s, churches and charith. n a hard year for everys our gratitude to our o support our business e encourage you to come lowing all CDC protocols althy environment for our to see you soon!”
Tuesday thru Saturday Lunch 11:30 am to 2 pm Dinner 4:30 to 8:30 pm
Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center | 336.298.7102 | www.oakridgediner.com Becky Keaton
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Youth
welcome to ... Sync A regular section in the Northwest Observer focused on our local youth and the adults who positively impact them.
STUDENT PROFILES Thanks to the coaches and teachers at Northern and Northwest High Schools for their student recommendations and input, which make it possible to recognize these talented, dedicated students for their accomplishments in academics, athletics and cultural arts.
NORTHWEST GUILFORD Haley Irwin, senior Sport: cross country by MEREDITH BARKLEY Northwest Guilford’s Haley Irwin, who has won each of the early season cross country meets this year, finds value even in competitions that don’t turn out as well. She may even learn more from those, she figures. “Each race is very telling,” said the senior, who plans to run in college next year. So, she spends time after races pondering about what went right, what went wrong and how to use it all to improve her running technique and speed. Irwin started running at Northwest during her sophomore year and fell in love with the sport.
“My mom’s a runner. My dad runs sometimes,” she said. “I just think it’s in my blood.” She said she particularly likes the support she gets from teammates and the opportunity to thrive in a competitive environment. And she has. In indoor track last year, she placed third in state in the 1,000-meter run. Ironically for Irwin, the coronavirus pandemic, which interrupted spring sports last year and delayed the start this year, came at a good time. She had to have surgery on both legs over the summer to correct a debilitating muscle and nerve condition. “It was just excruciating pain in both lower legs,” Irwin said, adding the season delay gave her time to heal and get back in shape for the start of competition. “I’m able to run again and there’s no pain,” Irwin said. “It’s awesome.” Cross country meets, which normally start soon after the new school year gets underway, didn’t begin this year until Nov. 16. Irwin’s winning times in 5K (3.1 miles) cross country
meets so far have been in the low 21-minute range – about a minute off her 20.05-minute personal best. She plans to study exercise science in college, but hasn’t yet decided which school she’ll attend. She said she has received an offer from Liberty University and is also considering other possibilities. Outside of school, Irwin volunteered with her church’s children’s ministry on Sundays before COVID. “I love working with kids,” she said. “I like helping them grow in their faith.”
NORTHERN GUILFORD Jack Dingman, senior Sport: cross country by MEREDITH BARKLEY Jack Dingman, Northern Guilford cross country standout, dates his love of running to the fifth grade and his quest to break Summerfield Elementary’s mile record. That record stood at 5:47 at the time. He first broke that by a few
seconds, then broke it again with a current school record of 5:24. “I got worried about some siblings taking it, but it still stands,” said Dingman, a senior. It was during that time that he realized how much fun and cathartic running can be. “I get into a zone,” he said. “It allows me to relieve stress, and think about my day. I really enjoy it.” Training for competition makes for hard workouts, he acknowledged, noting, “I have to push myself.” But when he’s running on his own, he said he can relax, take in the scenery and let his mind wander. In his sophomore and junior years Dingman was named to the All-State team. He finished ninth in the state last year. He also won his regional competition and was Guilford County’s champion. Dingman’s best time for the 5K (3.1 miles) cross country course is 15:14. That was during a meet in Huntsville, Alabama, which drew runners from all over the country. He finished 57th. The winning time: 14:26. “There was a crazy amount of talent there,” he said. Next year he’ll head to East Carolina, where he’ll run for the university’s cross country team.
Over 250 children in Guilford County will go to court alone Become a Guardian Ad Litem and advocate for an abused or neglected child
(336) 412-7580 | volunteerforgal.org
18
JAN. 7 - 20, 2021
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
Youth Sync
You won’t be able to hide behind that mask forever! Making smiles...inside and out!
336-644-1664
Summerfield and Greensboro
Considering a new smile? Schedule a free new patient exam today and learn about different options available to you from the Triad’s top Invisalign provider. www.ReynoldsOrthodontics.com
“I’m really excited to get into the flow of college,” he said.
during diving practices and competitions.
He plans to study finance and hopes to start his own business someday. He’s already dabbled in business creation, selling rings he made from U.S. quarters and, with his brother, making and selling home décor items.
“It’s a little bit scary,” said Paul, a senior and the only female on Northern Guilford’s swimming and diving team. “Getting off the (diving) platform is always the hardest part. You have to override your instinct not to dive.”
“I’ve always had a love of making things and selling them,” Dingman said.
She also dives off 5- and 7-meter platforms, which, she said, are not nearly as scary (5 meters is about 16.4 feet).
He also does community service work through his school’s National Honor Society and Beta Club and is an Eagle Scout. For his Eagle project he drew on his love of exercise and running to design and oversee construction of a gravel exercise ring at Jesse Wharton Elementary “to promote physical activity for the kids.”
NORTHERN GUILFORD Jess Paul, senior Sport: platform diving by MEREDITH BARKLEY Jess Paul, who confesses a fear of heights, nonetheless climbs the equivalent of some threestory buildings, then launches into a flip-and-a-half on the way down
“You get used to it,” she said. “Ten meters (30-plus feet up), I’m still a little afraid of.”
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Mary Elizabeth Caldwell in an email. Most afternoons Paul makes the 1 ½-hour drive to Chapel Hill for 2 ½-hour practices with a club team. On Mondays she practices with Northern’s team. She’ll be seeing lots of Chapel Hill for a while – she’s been recruited by UNC to dive for the university. “I am absolutely over the moon I’m
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so excited,” she said. She hasn’t decided what she’ll study, but is leaning toward nursing. “I really like helping people,” Paul said. Are the Olympics in her future? “If I got invited to trials, I’d go,” she said. “But that’s not my goal. I hope to stick around and coach as a side job. It’s a big part of my life.”
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While platform diving is her specialty, she also dives off the 1- and 3-meter boards. It all began 10 years ago when her gymnastics coach, who also coached diving, suggested she give it a try. “I loved it and didn’t want to do gymnastics anymore,” Paul recalled. “It’s a beautiful sport. It pushes you way beyond what you think you’re capable of.” And it’s a sport she has found success in. She’s made it to national competitions most years, winning in her age group when she was 11 years old, and she’s finished second and third in the state. Her goal this year: state title. “She has shown a true commitment to the sport and the Nighthawk team,” wrote Northern coach
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JAN. 7 - 20, 2021
19
r e n r o K ’ s Kid
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Chipman attains Eagle rank; project will facilitate flag retirement Stewart Chipman, 14, of Oak Ridge was recently promoted to the rank of Eagle Scout. Stewart is the son of Chris Chipman and Holly Stewart Stewart Chipman and a member of Troop 600B, which meets at Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church. For his Eagle project, Stewart led the design and construction of a flag retirement area at Oak Ridge Town Park, near the Linville Road entrance. In partnership with the Oak Ridge Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, Troop 600B plans to hold flag retirement ceremonies on major patriotic holidays like Veterans Day, and at least quarterly (based on the number of flags collected as part of its Flags Over NW program). Flags Over NW includes flag retirements and collections, placing flags at cemeteries, patriotic holiday events, and buglers at funerals for veterans. “My project provides our community with its first respectful and proper
way to collect and dispose of American flags (by burning them properly in a fire pit for this specific purpose),” Stewart wrote in his project description. “With the help of more than 20 volunteers who worked more than 180 hours, my project includes a 175-squarefoot octagonal concrete pad (6 feet on each side), a 40-inch round fire pit with secured octagonal cover, two 6-foot lumber benches with hand-constructed steel supports, a black architectural flag drop box, and landscaping shrubs.” The project was completed Nov. 25.
Photo courtesy of Holly Stewart
Stewart Chipman, 14, of Oak Ridge stands beside the Eagle project he completed in late November. With the help of many volunteers and donations from individuals and local businesses, Stewart led the design and construction of this dedicated area for proper disposal and retirement of the U.S. flag. The fire pit, concrete pad underneath and two hand-constructed wooden benches are located in Oak Ridge Town Park.
Stewart, a thirdgeneration Eagle Scout, expressed his appreciation to the many individuals and companies that donated to his project. For more information about Troop 600B, visit scoutdude.com or email troop600b@yahoo.com.
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communitynews@nwobserver.com The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
JAN. 7 - 20, 2021
21
Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO
Youth Sync
The parking lot of Revolution Academy on N.C. 150 in Summerfield is crowded with the vehicles of contractors completing construction of the main academic building on the public charter school campus. Principal Mary Catherine Sauer said Monday, Feb. 1, is “the target date” for the arrival of about 400 students (kindergarten through sixth grade). Remaining to be done is the removal of utility poles by Duke Energy for the widening of the road and the installation of a traffic signal at the school’s entrance by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. “As soon as they do that, we’re going to be ready to go,” Sauer said in an interview earlier this week. On the chance the school isn’t ready by early February, staff and students are prepared to shift to online learning or remain at the Church on 68 in Greensboro, the school’s temporary location since students at the new charter school N began classes there in August.
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Youth Sync
‘We felt a need to do something’ Early College at Guilford students tutor younger students amid COVID-19 pandemic by CHRIS BURRITT GREENSBORO – A group of high school students attending the Early College at Guilford, which includes some students from northwestern Guilford County, were looking for a way to serve the community at the outset of the COVID-19 outbreak last March. They started the Learning Helpline, a free online tutoring service for middle school students in Guilford and adjoining counties. So far, the effort has helped about 50 students at Northwest Guilford Middle and other middle schools on topics including math, science, social studies and English as a second language. “We felt a need to do something during this pandemic,” said Janice Wong, co-founder and co-president of the Learning Helpline. Since she and Sanvi Korsapathy started the program last March, about 25 of their Early College at Guilford classmates have been tutoring younger students. While doing so, they’re gaining service hours and providing younger students with an academic boost. “We all recognize how foundational those early classes were in getting to where we are now,” said Wong, a senior at Early College at Guilford, a magnet school that’s ranked as North Carolina’s top high school by U.S. News & World Report. She is districted for Northwest Guilford High School.
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High school students attending Early College at Guilford started a free online tutoring program for middle school students last spring called Learning Helpline. So far, they’ve helped over 50 students engaged in distance learning and hope to expand their reach even further and to continue their program after students return to classrooms for in-person instruction.
For some students, learning remotely is difficult, creating urgency to provide them help, said Paige Abbott, an Early College at Guilford senior who is also districted for Northwest Guilford High School. “Children in our community are continuing to face obstacles with online classes and we want to get the word out to these students who still need help during these tough times,” Abbott said in a recent email.
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The program plans to keep operating even when students return to classrooms, according to Korsapathy, who is districted for Southwest Guilford High School. “We will have to adapt to the schools’ schedules, but we want to continue tutoring,” she said. She added the program is expanding its reach to students in adjoining counties. Tutors and students connect remotely, using the Zoom application. Some students are looking for onetime help while others need assistance preparing for end-of-grade testing and other longer-term tutoring. “We are here to help them with whatever needs they have,” Wong said.
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JAN. 7 - 20, 2021
23
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...
All the ladies and customers at Sandy’s Beauty Shop for the wonderful Christmas gifts you generously provided to shut-ins. The groceries and delicious chicken and dumplings were very much appreciated and enjoyed. What a wonderful, caring group of women. Pfizer and other drug companies that have given the everyday person the chance to save themselves and the world. I’m grateful to live in current times. I received the vaccine as a frontline worker this week, and I feel fine. Mark Malloy for helping out when
I had a flat tire. I really appreciate his resourceful problem-solving and kindness. Thanks also to two other friends for coming to my aid. Todd Payne, owner of Renovation Works, for an excellent job with our renovation and addition project. He was fair, honest and professional and we highly recommend him. Found his company through an ad in the Northwest Observer, by the way. Dr. Scalise and all the other vets and staff members who cared for our beloved Buddy for so many years. Their compassion and care in helping him pass over that Rainbow Bridge was truly
wonderful and we appreciated it. All of our patients and friends at Reynolds Orthodontics who helped us exceed our goal of donating 1,000 boxes of macaroni and cheese to Greensboro Urban Ministry. We put smiles on 1,033 people through the donation! The sweet person who gave The Jumping Bean in Summerfield money to cover the cost of people’s drinks on Dec. 14. That totally made my cold, rainy Monday so much better. Thank you so much! Stokesdale resident Terri Johnson for getting my grandson on the Angel Tree. You are an angel. Editor’s note: Terri Johnson is coordinator of Good Samaritan Ministries’ annual Angel Tree project, which connects children in need with those in the community who want to help fulfill their Christmas gift wishes. Read more about Terri in the Tire Max ad on p. 5, which features her as an “ordinary person who does extraordinary things.” Our staff has come to know her through her efforts with GSM and can verify she is an extraordinary person.
The stranger at Oak Ridge’s Shell station who, after I forgot my wallet and had to get out of line to go get it, paid my tab and said, “Merry Christmas,” then handed me my drink in the parking lot. All those who delivered packages and gifts over the holiday season. They were busier than ever before and during such a difficult time and worked some very long days. Thank you, drivers – we appreciate you! Beth Spivey at Spivery’s Nursery for graciously spending her valuable time to give us a quote on the morning of Dec. 31 for plants (after someone ran through our yard and tore up our shrubs). This is why we buy from Spivey’s. Everyone who helped my grandmother when she fell in the Summerfield Food Lion parking lot on New Year’s Eve. So glad there are still good people in the world! My amazing fellow Key Club members, friends, family and Riverside neighbors for donating to the NWHS Key Club Holiday Donation Drive. Your
The Fitzsimmons Group Erin Henry 336-686-1408 Ashley Fitzsimmons 336-312-4543 Kelly Creed 336-339-0646
New Year! New Home! 24
JAN. 7 - 20, 2021
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
donation brought a lot of joy to kids this Christmas – thank you for your support! Trailco Small Engine Repair for not charging a $50 diagnostic fee up front and for getting the job done correctly on my air compressor. Very experienced and very reasonable.
GRIPES to...
The griper who said he/she wasn’t killing anyone by not wearing a mask. You don’t understand – the purpose of the mask is to protect other people from whatever comes from your face. My mask protects you. Guilford County Schools Superintendent Sharon Contreras, who seems to care more about appearances and her political future than about staff, students and families. The griper in the last edition (Dec. 17, 2020-Jan. 6, 2021) regarding hazard flashers while in motion. North Carolina driving laws, as well as other states, allow using hazard flashers while in motion. Educate yourself on a subject before speaking about it. Editor’s note: The griper in our last issue didn’t actually state that using hazard lights while in motion is illegal in our state, rather that “hazard flashers are (intended) for stationary use only.” Please see “Questions You Have Asked” on p. 4 of this issue for more info about driving with hazard lights on. The “trashbag” who regularly throws out McDonald’s containers at the intersection of Williard and Stafford Mill roads. Littering is despicable! People who do not wear masks because they feel it infringes on their rights. This is equivalent to drinking and driving. When your rights infringe on the rights of others to stay safe and healthy, it is no longer acceptable. Citgo in Stokesdale for not enforcing wearing masks. I was the only one of nine people in line wearing one! Even though the signs say you must wear a mask, the clerk says he can’t enforce it. Come on, Stokesdale ... geesh! Those who still haven’t taken their
political signs down in my neighborhood as well as around Summerfield. I thought there was a law saying they had to be taken down by so many days after an election. Who enforces this law?
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Editor’s note: Political signs placed in the right-of-way of the State highway system are to be removed by 10 days after the primary or election; the Department of Transportation may remove any such signs remaining beyond the deadline. Effective Dec. 1, 2019, any political sign remaining in the right-of-way of the State highway system more than 40 days after the primary or election day is deemed “unlawfully placed abandoned property,” and a person may remove and dispose of the sign without being penalized. As for how long political signs can remain on private property, there are no stated limits, so it’s is up to the individual property owner.
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The owner of the aggressive dog who jumped two other dogs in the Oak Ridge dog park Dec. 27 as they entered through the fence. Please be respectful of others and keep your dogs under control. Also, pick up their poop! Those Oak Ridge council members who flout the Governor’s COVID-19 executive orders (regarding wearing masks). It’s okay to disagree or challenge in court, but not to selectively comply with the law and still expect citizens to comply with your town rules. Those who dumped their old mattresses, box springs and chairs by the dumpsters at the trailer park on Summerfield Road – they have been there a couple of months, and are an eyesore to everyone who passes by. Editor’s note: The Town of Summerfield has an enforcement officer who reviews all complaints to determine if there is a valid violation to its ordinances relating to zoning, junked cars, illegal businesses, unkept property, etc. Complaints can be submitted online (anonymously if desired) at www.summerfieldnc.gov – type “Code Enforcement Complaints” into the Search bar – or call Summer-
...continued on p. 26
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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
JAN. 7 - 20, 2021
25
GRINS & GRIPES ...continued from p. 25
field Town Hall at (336) 643-8655. If the enforcement officer determines there is an ordinance violation, the town will work with the property owner to remedy the situation. Those displaying the blue-lined flag. Our flag is red, white and blue. Follow the USA flag code that represents our forefathers. We are the land of opportunity, growth and solidarity. No line divides us. United we stand, divided we fall. Editor’s note: The black-and-white flag
Outside the
with a thin blue line was initially displayed across the U.S. as a symbol of support for the challenges law enforcement officers face and for the officers who have fallen in the line of duty. However, in recent years the flag has also been displayed by white supremacists and some therefore believe it has become a symbol of racism and that it cultivates an “us versus them” mindset that heightens tensions between officers and citizens. Those who posted political signs (Trump and blue-lined flags) in the NCDOT right-of-way and still haven’t removed them.
GRIPES to... …
The following reader-submitted GRINS and GRIPES express opinions about state and/or national topics, and have been separated from the other grins and gripes as a courtesy to those who do not want to read others’ opinions on state and/ or national political and other non-local topics in a local newspaper.
GRINS to...
Gen. Gus Perna, who’s in charge of distributing the much-needed COVID vaccine. Not surprisingly, an endeavor of this scale has had some hiccups. He’s provided no excuses and has taken responsibility. Quite a novel concept for someone based in Washington.
Those linking the SolarWinds hack to Russia, which is only for leverage and fearmongering. The GOP is grasping and (Secretary of State) Mike Pompeo is leading the charge to overthrow our current democracy. The Air Force for geoengineering our sky’s wonder with all that aluminum, strontium, barium and manganese. What is it doing to people’s health, and who’s paying for it? All those media outlets (especially National Progressive Radio) who no longer act as purveyors of the news, but as self-appointed arbiters of truth. NPR blithely and casually dismisses GOP claims of voter fraud as untrue, as if they were God.
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CRIME/INCIDENT REPORT ...continued from p. 14
substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and speeding.
FRAUD
Dec. 16 | A resident of the 5800 block of Scarlett Court in Oak Ridge (near Oak Ridge Road) reported an unknown suspect charged $3,983.63 to her credit card at a Hertz rental car office in Orlando, Florida, on Dec. 14. Jan. 2 | A resident of the 6100 block of Bar-Mot Drive in northwest Greensboro (off N.C. 150 W) reported an unknown suspect forged a check belonging to him, cashed it and unlawfully obtained $14,600 between Dec. 22 and Dec. 28.
FUGITIVE FROM JUSTICE
Dec. 28 | A 32-year-old male was arrested in the 2300 block of Oak Ridge Road in Oak Ridge for being a fugitive from justice.
THEFT
Dec. 15 | A manager of Advance Auto Parts in Stokesdale reported an unknown suspect stole three cameras, worth a total of $409.97, at about 4:10 p.m. Dec. 17 | A local resident reported his 2007 Ford F-350 was stolen from Brookbank Auto in Stokesdale between Dec. 16 at 6:30 p.m. and Dec. 17 at 5:40 p.m. Dec. 20 | A local resident reported
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Dec. 21 | A resident of the 7800 block of Alcorn Road in Oak Ridge reported an unknown suspect entered his carport between Dec. 14 and Dec. 20 and stole two Hilti drills and some computer speakers, with an estimated total value of $635. Dec. 31 | A local resident reported an unknown suspect stole two motorcycles belonging to him, worth an estimated $7,000 total, from a home in the 5600 block of Spotswood Road in Summerfield (off U.S. 158) between Dec. 26 and Dec. 31. Jan. 1 | An employee of Lowes Foods in Oak Ridge reported an unknown suspect stole about $150 worth of items on Dec. 31 at 7 p.m. Jan. 1 | A resident of the 2400 block of Dawning Court in northwest Greensboro (near Alcorn Road) reported an unknown suspect trespassed on her property between Dec. 31 at 4 p.m. and Jan. 2 at 7:45 a.m. and stole $1,344 worth of items.
WEAPONS
Jan. 1 | A 64-year-old male was arrested in the 9000 block of U.S. 158 in Stokesdale for possession of a firearm as a felon.
District 1 Sheriff’s Office
Nicole E. Gillespie, SPS
26
an unknown suspect stole several items from her vehicle while it was parked at Oak Ridge Town Park at about 2 p.m.
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
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
AUTO SALES & SERVICE
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
SAM'S AUTO BODY SHOP. Any type of body work. 45 years exp. (336) 965-7955.
CLEANING
Need an electrician? Call BLACKMON ELECTRICAL, INC. Free est. Comm. & res. Licensed & insured. Call (336) 430-5018.
CHOICE TIRE AND AUTOMOTIVE. Oil changes, inspections, alignments and general automotive repairs. 1080 US Hwy 66 S, Kernersville, NC. (336) 992-9002.
CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING Gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. windowcleaningnc.com (336) 595-2873 DUST FAIRY CLEANING SERVICE. Offering gift certificates. Makes great gifts for the holidays. (1) hour clean, $25; (2) hour clean, $50. Call or text Tammy, (828) 279-1464. CHRISTIAN MOM needs work cleaning houses, running errands. Will fit to your budget. Pet taxi/pet sitting also avail. References. Call Laura Bennett, (336) 231-1838.
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DEADLINE: Monday prior to each issue
NEED HELP? Call (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 Mon - Fri • 9am -12:30pm
INDEX Auto Sales & Service ........ 27 Employment .................... 27 Home Services ............27-29 Misc. Services .................. 29 Misc. For Sale .................. 29
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.
EMPLOYMENT CHILDCARE CENTER looking for dependable substitute teacher. Experience preferred but not required. Must have negative TB test and background check through NC DCDEE. (336) 643-6140. HOUSEKEEPER / MAID / PCA / CNA. $11-12/hr. starting salary, plus benefits. Planned raises to $12.50 in 3 months. (336) 441-8388. LEAD TEACHER POSITION available in childcare center. Childcare credentials required. (336) 643-5930. ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE. Help wanted. Groundsman or climber. Must have driver's license. (336) 643-9157.
Misc. Wanted .................. 29 HOME SERVICES Pets & Animal Services .... 29 Real Estate ................. 29-30
AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING A-ACTION AIR. Will your furnace work this season? Call (336) 382-3750 or (336) 268-6768.
THE CLEANING TECHNICIAN LLC. With the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be a little overwhelmed. I would like to offer my cleaning services at a discount. Licensed, bonded, and insured. Call Lisa, (336) 207-0770. ANNASARAH'S CLEANING. Excellent references. Trustworthy. Family owned business. Free estimates. (336) 543-3941. MAID-2- SHINE. Excellent ser vice, 15 years experience. Free estimates, excellent references. (336) 338-0223. PAOLA CLEANING SERVICE. Residential & commercial. Insured. (336) 669-5210.
DECORATING BLISSFUL ART & FRAMING. SHOP LOCAL! Framing, gifts, graphic design. 4533 Hwy. 220 N., Summerfield. (336) 298-4502. 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.
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ELECTRICAL Do you have ELECTRICAL NEEDS? It's generator season. Call Coble Electric LLC at (336) 209-1486. BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC. Got Power? Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192.
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.
GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES SMALL ENGINE AND MOWER REPAIR is back at a new location. Welding available. Call or text Morris at (336) 880-7498. FIX YOUR MOWER! Service and repairs. Spring specials. "We do it right." Free pickup & delivery. Call Rick, (336) 501-8681. APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707. OLD SCHOOL HOME REPAIR See display ad on page 15. 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. 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.
GRADING / HAULING GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, fill dirt, gravel, etc. (336) 362-1150.
The Northwest Observer • Totally 1996 The Northwest Observer • Totally locallocal sincesince 1996
continued on p. 28
JAN. 7 7 -- 20, 20, 2021 2021 JAN.
27 27
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
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.
LAWNCARE / LANDSCAPING
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.
MISC. HOME SERVICES/PRODUCTS
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 a sum of aggregates, including but not limited to: fill dirt, stone, asphalt millings, and crushed concrete. We also offer full bobcat services. Driveways, minor clearing, drainage solutions and snow removal. Daniel Wilson, (336) 339-0212. BRAD'S BOBCAT & HAULING SVCS. LLC. Debris removal, grading, gravel/dirt, driveways, concrete work. (336) 362-3647.
GUTTERS / SIDING / WINDOWS WILSON SEAMLESS GUTTERS, new construction, repairs, replacement, leaf guards. Free estimates. (336) 420-0200.
ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call (336) 382-9875. 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.
PLACE YOUR AD: nwobserver.com CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, (336) 643-9332. www.carolinastumpandtreeservices.com. GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490. HILL LAWNCARE & OUTDOOR SERVICES. Free est. Call (336) 669-5448. 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.
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JAN. JAN. 77--20, 20,2021 2021
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EXTERIOR GREENSCAPES. Lawn maintenance service. Call for a free estimate (336) 682-1456. PECHES LANDSCAPING & LAWNCARE. Tree service, brush cutting & clearing, mulching, landscaping & lawncare, deck, fence and retainer wall building, land clearing, wood chipping and snow removal.. Call John, (336) 451-6941, or call Brad, (336) 453-6180. DELIMA LAWNCARE. Commercial & Residential. Free estimates. (336) 669-5210. 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.
ON EAGLE'S WINGS residential home design/drafting. Call Patti, (336) 605-0519. JUNK & DEBRIS REMOVAL, construction, remodeling, and general cleanup, out buildings, garages, basements, yard waste, etc. Call (336) 706-8470.
PAINTING & DRYWALL CARLOS & SON PAINTING. Interior and exterior. 24 hours/7 days a week. Free estimates, licensed/insured. (336) 669-5210. PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 40 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. Average BDRM walls $100. Insured. Call Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186.
BEK Paint Co. Residential & Commercial David & Judy Long, owners
(336) 931-0600
BEKPaintCompany.com • References Available • Licensed & Insured • All Work Guaranteed
Your business should be here! Place your classified ad online at
www.nwobserver.com
MASONRY MASONRY CONCEPTS, brick, block, stone concrete & repairs. Free est. (336) 988-1022, www.masonryconceptsgso.com. 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.
The The Northwest Observer • Totally local local since since 1996 1996 Northwest Observer • Totally
STILL PERFECTION PAINTING. Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com. LAWSON'S PAINTING. Custom decks, pressure washing, boat docks, block fill, wood repair, stain work, textured ceilings, sheetrock repair. Call (336) 253-9089.
PLUMBING FREEMAN PLUMBING – new construction, remodel and repair. For ALL your plumbing needs! (336) 580-4525. BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR. No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic./ Ins. Cleanliness in your home is our #1 priority. Call Mark, (336) 337-7924.
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Keeping you connected since 1996!
HOME SERVICES
Wilson
Ain’t God Good
Septic Pumping & Repair Family owned & operated since 1972
(336) 643-6427
Tank pumping, repairs, clogs, advice – ALL WITH A SMILE! Discounts: mention this ad, veteran, senior citizen, cookies & milk Find us on Google, neighborhood.com, FB
WEBSTER & SONS PLUMBING, Inc. (336) 992-2503. Licensed, insured, bonded. 24/7 service. Plumbing, drain cleaning, well pumps. Give us a call, we do it all! Go to www.webstersplumbing.com for more info.
PRESSURE WASHING 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. HOUSE and ROOF SOFT WASHING. Martin's Pressure Washing. (919) 931-0856.
REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION AFFORDABLE HOME REPAIRS. One call fixes all! A+ with BBB. For a free estimate call (336) 643-1184 or (336) 987-0350. 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. 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.
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
PETS & ANIMAL SVCS.
AMERICAN BUILDER CONSTRUCTION INC. Repairs & remodeling, kitchens/baths, additions, decks, attics, basements. Licensed & insured. Short wait list. NC General Contractors. (336) 225-7478.
CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC. Residential roofing, rubber flat roofs, roof coating, metal roofs. 30 years experience. Call (336) 643-8191 or (336) 268-1908.
WENDY COLLINS PET SITTING LLC. Bonded & Insured. Follow us on Facebook. Call or text (336) 339-6845.
PREMIER ROOFING, LOCALLY OWNED. Catering to all your roofing needs. Call (336) 430-9507 for free assessments.
REAL ESTATE
BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, dock work, siding, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Sr. disc., 41 yrs. exp. (336) 362-6343.
TM
Construction Services, INC
BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS
Roof and window replacement
(336) 644-8615 office (336) 508-5242 cell
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Lifetime shingle and metal roofing. We fi nance. Free Estimates. Since 1979. Please call (336) 362-6343.
We Help Everyone! SELLERS & BUYERS
&
MISC. SERVICES (336) 643-4248
www.ANewDawnRealty.com
Licensed & insured NC Gen. Contractor #72797
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
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. 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. Call (336) 362-7469.
WE’LL BE BACK IN PRINT THURSDAY, JAN. 21 Place your DISPLAY AD:
Gated access with 24/7 camera surveillance We carry moving & shipping supplies
(336) 643-9963 • 8207 B & G Court, Stokesdale
MISC. FOR SALE SEASONED FIREWOOD. $80/pickup truck load delivered & stacked. (336) 253-7615. SEASONED FIREWOOD, delivered & stacked, 1/2 cord, $80. Call (336) 686-6373.
Got stuff? Need stuff? Place your ad online at
(336) 644-7035, ext. 11, or advertising@nwobserver.com
ROOFING RED RHINO ROOFING, based in Oak Ridge, NC. Storm damage specialist experienced with all types of roofing. BBB accredited A, and listed with Angie's List. Call (336) 944-6118, or visit redrhinoroofing.com.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SPACE AVAILABLE. 350 sq. ft. Located at Haircraft, 2601 Oak Ridge Rd. Separate entrance. Great for nail tech. or office space. $500/mo. Available now. Call (336) 609-1300.
LAND FOR SALE LARGE TRACTS, SUMMERFIELD AREA. 3 tracts available: 4+ acres, 11+ acres and 25+ acres. Beautiful property. NO HOA DUES! These won’t last and are priced to sell! Call (336) 430-9507 today for your personal appointment and tour. NOW AVAILABLE, SUMMERFIELD'S BEST-KEPT SECRET! Presenting “The Hermitage.” Only 14 exclusive custom homesites for the discriminating buyer, one phase only. These gorgeous 1 +\- acre homesites are the most beautiful building sites in our area. Call (336) 430-9507 today for your personal site visit.
MISC. WANTED
HOMES FOR RENT
Canvas artist seeks STUDIO SPACE with natural lighting. Stokesdale/Summerfield area. cefrogge@gmail/newlookfinishes.com.
NICE 1-LEVEL TOWNHOUSE, convenient Guilford College area, quiet neighborhood. 2BR/2BA. $975 per month. (336) 392-1454.
$$$ – WILL PAY CASH for your junk / wrecked vehicle. For quote, call (336) 552-0328.
The Northwest Observer • Totally 1996 The Northwest Observer • Totally locallocal sincesince 1996
continued on p. 30
JAN. 7 7 -- 20, 20, 2021 2021 JAN.
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REAL ESTATE
...continued from p. 7
PROPERTY FOR SALE FOR SALE
Please support
our 402 N 2nd Ave., Mayodan, NC 27027 Rental building structured for five tenants. 14,000 sq. ft. Previously rented space for $3,200/ month. Unit A: 3,500+ sq. ft. (previous rent $975); unit B: 3,000+ sq. ft. (current rent $650); unit C: 500+ sq. ft. office (prev. rent $650); lower-level units: D and lumber yard, 3,500+ sq. ft. (prev. rent $975); Unit E: 3,500+ sq. ft. Natural gas, city water and sewer. Gated access, large parking/storage area, covered shelters. Small rental house included. $269,000
Phillip Stone (336) 643-4248 phillipstone84@gmail.com www.ANewDawnRealty.com
Selling or renting? Place your real estate ad today (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 advertising@nwobserver.com
advertisers,
and tell them where you saw their ad.
Without their partnership, the Northwest Observer could not be free to you, our readers! ACCOUNTING
Novant – Forsyth Pediatrics ................17
AUTOMOTIVE SALES / SERVICE
Vision Source Eye Center of the Triad ....6
Beamer Tire & Auto .......................... 22 EuroHaus .......................................... 27 Piedmont Truck Tires ..........................13 Prestige Car Wash ..............................16 Tire Max .............................................. 5
BUILDING / REMODELING
TM Construction Services .................. 29
CHILDREN’S SERVICES
Oak Ridge Physical Therapy ...............16 Wake Forest Baptist Health ................14
MUSIC INSTRUMENTS & LESSONS Moore Music Company ..................... 20
ORTHODONTIC CARE Olmsted Orthodontics ........................17 Reynolds Orthodontics .......................19
PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS
DENTAL SERVICES
King’s Crossing Animal Hospital .........15
Magnolia Shores Family Dental ......... 25 Summerfield Family Dentistry ............ 23
GROCERIES / SUPPLIES
Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital ................12 Northwest Animal Hospital ................ 10
REAL ESTATE
Southern Foods ................................... 8
A New Dawn Realty .......................... 29
HAIR CARE
James D. Coleman Jr. – Land for Sale ...2
HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES
BEK Paint Company .......................... 28 Eanes Heating & Air ...........................11 Old School Home Repair ....................15 Stokesdale Heating & Air................... 25 Stokesdale Storage ............................ 29 Wilson Septic & Pumping .................. 29
LEGAL SERVICES
Barbour & Williams Law ...................... 7 Scott Tippett, Hagan Barrett Law ........ 2
JAN. JAN. 77--20, 20,2021 2021
LeBauer HealthCare............................ 3
Guardian Ad Litem program ............. 18
Great Clips .........................................16
30 30
MEDICAL CARE / EYE CARE
Carlotta Lytton, CPA...........................15 Kimberly Thacker Accounting.............15 Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC....... 8
The Fitzsimmons Group, Allen Tate ... 24 Nicole Gillespie, RE/MAX .................. 26 Phillip Stone, A New Dawn Realty ..... 30 Ramilya Siegel, Keller Williams ............ 4
RESTAURANTS / CATERING Bistro 150 ...........................................17 Oak Ridge Diner.................................17 Rio Grande Mexican Kitchen..............16
YOUTH SPORTS / CAMPS National Flag Football ........................19 Oak Ridge Youth Association ............ 21
The The Northwest Observer • Totally local local since since 1996 1996 Northwest Observer • Totally
Citing concerns similar to those he had brought up in the past, Landreth said he was not opposed to the concept, but was concerned about “the decision-making process” by Flynt that excluded other council members. Councilman Derek Foy suggested the town should charge residents outside its limits more for water service, which Flynt strongly objected to. Stokesdale is alone in northwest Guilford in operating a water system. However, Oak Ridge leaders are exploring the establishment of a municipal water system that would be operated by contractor Envirolink Inc. while Summerfield Town Council has revived discussions about installing water tanks for firefighting. A proposal by developer David Couch to develop his 650 acres around Summerfield Farms would extend water and sewer lines from Greensboro to his Pleasant Ridge Road property. The Summerfield Town Council has taken no action on the proposal, which is under evaluation by officials in Summerfield, Greensboro and the county; county commissioners were to discuss the proposed development at a work session scheduled the afternoon of Jan. 7. If the project were approved, Couch said water and sewer lines could also be extended to businesses on U.S. 220. Costs for the utilities would be paid for by property owners using water and sewer, not other Summerfield taxpayers, according to the developer’s proposal. A state appropriation last year gave each of the three northwest Guilford towns $1.1 million to spend on water infrastructure projects. The funding represents each town’s equal share of $3.3 million left over from the study of a proposed regional water system in northwestern Guilford County estimated to cost more than $50 million. Local leaders balked at the price tag, prompting the state legislature to divvy up the money among Oak Ridge, Summerfield and Stokesdale, contingent upon it being used toward each municipality’s water needs.
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