Northwest Observer / Oct. 6-19, 2022

Hurricane Ian knocks out power, leaves lessons in its wake

by CHRIS BURRITT

NORTHWEST GUILFORD – The remnants of Hurricane Ian pummeled northwestern Guilford County with heavy rain and wind late last week, knocking down trees, causing power outages and

calls.

The storm that killed more than 100 in Florida and five others in central and coastal North Carolina took a lesser toll on northwest Guilford, according to fire department officials in Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Stokesdale. Even so, emergency calls in the area illustrated the dangers caused by big storms.

“We got off light considering the amount of rain and wind that hit us,” Stokesdale Fire Chief Todd Gauldin said in an interview earlier this week. Looking ahead, he said common sense suggests that people should stay off the roads and inside their homes “when you’ve got the wind blowing and the rain falling and trees and power lines coming down.”

The Stokesdale department handled five storm-related calls during the evening and night last Friday, Sept. 30, mainly due to downed trees, Gauldin said.

In Summerfield, 17 of the 20 calls handled by the fire department late last Friday and early on Saturday were storm related, according to assistant Chief Jenna Daniels. In Oak Ridge, the fire department ran nine storm-related calls, Chief Ken Gibson said.

N.C. 150 at Zack Road in Oak Ridge remained closed to traffic for several hours last weekend after strong winds snapped a maple tree in the front yard of the historic 1930s-era home owned by Gary and Myra Blackburn. The tree fell across power lines and onto the road, resulting in power outages that lasted through Friday evening and Saturday morning. As he inspected the damage, nearby homeowner Barry Westmoreland said he regained electricity after it was out for about 14 hours.

Seven of the calls in Oak Ridge resulted from electrical hazards caused by trees falling on electrical lines, Gibson said in an email earlier this week. His department also responded to a structure fire outside of the Oak Ridge district due to power lines falling on the building.

Statewide, power outages were widespread.

“We had in North Carolina at different points more than 700,000 people without power,” Gov. Roy Cooper said earlier this week. “Collectively, the

high peak was 400,000 people who didn’t have power.”

In Oak Ridge, a tree snapped by the storm fell across utility lines and blocked N.C. 150 at Zack Road, blocking traffic in both directions last weekend. Emergency personnel blocked the section of road with orange cones and tape.

A blocked road is “a significant hazard, and the motorist should not proceed,” Gibson said.

Homeowners should refrain from

Photo by Chris Burritt

Preview: Oak Ridge Town Council meeting, Oct. 6

by CHRIS BURRITT

OAK RIDGE – Oak Ridge Town Council plans to consider proceeding with bidding for a contractor to refurbish the Farmhouse Community Center, the new name for the historic Redmon house in Town Park.

Town Manager Bill Bruce recommended the council approve a proposal from Hill Studio, a Roanoke, Virginia-based design firm, to provide bid assistance and construction administration for the project, at a cost of $17,500.

Bruce is also asking the council to authorize town staff to advertise the project for bids. Earlier, the council earmarked $455,000 in this fiscal year’s budget for the renovation and expansion of the 1930s-era farmhouse at the corner of Lisa Drive and Linville Road.

In other business, the council plans to consider approving the expenditure of $22,400 for consultant McGill Associates to perform additional work at Heritage Farm Park.

McGill plans to revise construction drawings for the park to accommodate the use of a new primary well and secondary well as water sources for the park, according to a memo from Bruce.

Separately, the council plans to consider a recommendation by the Water Advisory Committee regarding how to proceed with establishing a more reliable supply of water for Oak Ridge. As proposed, the new water source would initially aid firefighters and eventually serve homeowners and businesses, creating a long-term

supply for the town’s recently created municipal water system.

In July, the council reviewed options recommended by consultant Wooten Co. They envision tapping groundwater in Oak Ridge or piping it in from Forsyth County. The council decided to determine its next steps during this week’s meeting based upon the recommendations of the Water Advisory Committee.

In addition, the council plans to consider approving the matching of $11,069.48 raised by the Special Events Committee in the third quarter for the Veterans Honor Green.

Earlier, the council pledged to match up to $34,000 in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023.

Fundraising by the committee in the quarter ended Sept. 30, coupled with the town’s match, totals $22,138.96. That brings overall contributions for the proposed veterans site in Heritage Farm Park to $145,983.70, according to a memo from Town Clerk Sandra Smith.

The council also plans to consider reappointing Larry Stafford as the representative for the town’s ETJ –extraterritorial jurisdiction – (south) on the Planning and Zoning Board.

want to attend/ watch?

The 7 p.m. meeting at Town Hall this Thursday, Oct. 6, is open to the public. The meeting will be livestreamed on the town’s YouTube channel. For more information, visit www.oakridgenc.com.

State to

for electric

charging stations

NCDOT plans to use $109 million it will receive in federal funds over the next five years to install electric charging stations along every 50 miles of major highways and interstates throughout North Carolina.

RALEIGH – North Carolina will receive an estimated $109 million over five years from the Federal Highway Administration for the development of electric vehicle charging stations as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, federal officials

last week.

“Electric vehicles are growing in popularity and demand, and we need to make sure the state is ready for this shift,” said state Transportation Secretary Eric Boyette. “Our federal partners recognize this, and these funds will be invaluable in making sure North Carolina is ready for the future.”

The funds are being delivered through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure, or NEVI, program, according to an NCDOT press release dated Sept. 17.

“As a part of the program, each state department of transportation submitted a plan outlining how the funds will advance equitable deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. NCDOT’s plan was approved this week,” NCDOT reported.

The department said a large portion of these funds will be used for the installation of Level 3 charging infrastructure along the state’s Alternative Fuel Corridors.

“These major highways and interstates will have electric charging stations installed every 50 miles. Funding in future years will be focused on community-based public electric vehicle charging and other critical infrastructure needs,” the press release said.

The NEVI Program supports Executive Order 246, signed in January 2022 by Gov. Roy Cooper, which aims to increase the amount of registered zero-emission vehicles in North Carolina to at least 1.25 million by 2030. The order also tasks NCDOT with the creation of the Clean Transportation Plan to prepare the state for a shift to more electric vehicles and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Clean Transportation Plan is expected to be complete by April 2023.

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There are no immediate plans to change traffic patterns for entering and exiting the Starbucks under construction on N.C. 68 in Oak Ridge. However, construction is scheduled to begin next year on improvements to the town’s road system and ultimately, left turns will no longer be allowed from the Shell station/office complex on N.C. 68 where Starbucks will be located, or from Marketplace Drive on the opposite side of the highway from Starbucks.

What are the plans to help with traffic

coming out of the Shell/

Starbucks parking lot in Oak Ridge? Any talk of a roundabout? If left as is, it will be

Showcasing New Residential Construction

October 8-9 & 15-16

Open Houses

1-5 pm • Admission is Free

Parade of Homes magazines are available at area grocery stores and outside Lowe’s Home Improvement stores. Access a digital copy online.

Virtual Tours

From the comfort of your home, tour our Parade homes online.

Sponsored by:

Download GREENSBORO PARADE OF HOMES app to map your tour!

another traffic nightmare to add to our already congested small-town roads.

We reached out to Sean Taylor, Oak Ridge’s planning director, this week and he told us there are no immediate plans to change the traffic patterns for entering and exiting the shopping/office complex that includes the future Starbucks on N.C. 68. However, Taylor noted that sometime next year, plans are to start construction on improvements to the N.C. 68 and 150/Oak Ridge Road intersection just north of this complex.

“Installation of a roundabout at

This camera was placed on the side of Autumn Gate Drive at the request of a homeowner who is concerned about school-related traffic through the Twelve Oaks neighborhood.

the intersection of Linville Road and N.C. 68 and another roundabout at the intersection of Marketplace Drive and N.C. 150/Oak Ridge Road (beside the entrance to Oak Ridge Commons shopping center) will occur during the construction process as well,” Taylor said.

“The intersection in question (on N.C. 68, with the Shell station, Starbucks and retail/office complex on one side and the building with Domino’s Pizza, Verizon, Jersey Mike’s and Carolina Priority Care on the opposite side) will change during this time to no longer allow left turns out.”

Farmers’ Day

Food, fun, music and games for the entire family!

NEW EVENT DATE

- 4pm

Stokesdale United Methodist Church

DISPLAY YOUR FARM EQUIPMENT

Friends of Stokesdale invites you to display your farm equipment and share your knowledge of Stokesdale’s farming history with the community. (Equipment on tracks or hard-spiked wheels that may damage the turf will have to be trailered.)

Owners of small items used in the early 1900s are invited to bring them for display!

To display your equipment, please contact Friends of Stokesdale at friendsofstokesdale@gmail.com or (336) 552-0704.

LITTLE MR. & MISS FARMERS’ DAY CONTEST

I have a child at Oak Ridge Elementary and have noticed what appear to be cameras around the area where parents drive for student drop-off and pick-up.

Can you find out what these cameras are for?

The camera you’ve asked about is along the side of the road, on Autumn Gate Drive (as opposed to on school property), which is a state-maintained road. We’re told it was placed there at the request of a private homeowner who

is concerned about school-related traffic issues in the Twelve Oaks neighborhood.

Penny Loschin, principal of Oak Ridge Elementary School, told us the homeowner met with her and a Guilford County Schools representative several weeks ago to try to resolve the issues that have arisen since the car rider drop-off and pick-up pattern was reconfigured last year.

In January of 2021, Northwest Observer reported that COVD-19 precautions had slowed down the

In conjunction with the Friends of Stokesdale Farmers’ Day Event, there will be a 2022 Little Mr. & Miss Farmers’ Day Contest open to children ages infant through 5 years old. Contest is open to the first 20 applicants.

There will be two male and two female winners. Winners will receive a trophy, have their picture taken and have a place to ride on the Friends of Stokesdale Float in the Stokesdale Christmas Parade. Visit friendsofstokesdale.org for an entry form.

Friends of Stokesdale is a non-profit community improvement corporation comprised of dedicated citizens who want to keep a vibrant town core, connect our past to our present, and carry it into Stokesdale's future.

Haw River State Park

Park in the

Oct. 15 6 -10 pm

drop-off and pick-up of children at the school, leading to a backup of vehicles on N.C. 150 in front of the school.

Join us for a nature walk on park trails and learn about nocturnal animals. Games, crafts, treats, and lots of family fun. Wear your Halloween costume and bring a flashlight!

TICKETS REQUIRED - EVENTBRITE

Movie in the park

Friday, Oct. 14, 7:15 pm

Summerfield Athletic Park (soccer field)

• Gate opens 6:15pm, Bella Ballerina dancing 6:30pm, movie 7:15pm.

Loschin explained at the time that parents were driving through the Twelve Oaks and Plantation Oaks subdivisions as part of a plan to reduce the number of vehicles on N.C. 150, and the plan had been recommended by the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office.

Some homeowners in the two

HURRICANE IAN

...continued from p. 1

cutting up trees, especially if they’ve fallen on utility lines, the chiefs said.

“Sometimes we’ve noticed people in the neighborhood will start using chainsaws,” Daniels said. “This can be very dangerous if there’s a live power line on it.”

Downed trees also create confusion for some homeowners, according to Daniels.

“If there are trees down with power lines on them (or nearby), we can’t do anything,” she said. “We are at the mercy of Duke Energy,” who is required to remove the lines before cleanup can begin.

“Sometimes people will call us and say a tree fell in their driveway,” Daniels said. “We can’t remove trees from private property, but we will remove them from the road to create a safe passageway.”

The storm knocked out traffic signals on N.C. 150 from Oak Ridge to Summerfield. Last Saturday afternoon, drivers stopped and started, some hesitantly and others seemingly oblivious, as they approached the intersection of N.C. 150 and U.S. 220, suggesting that not all motorists understood traffic rules when traffic lights are out.

State law governs driving through an intersection when a traffic signal is out. Vehicles are required to proceed through the intersection as though it “is controlled by a stop sign on all approaches to the intersection,” according to a post on the website of the North Carolina

neighborhoods adjacent to the school complained, though, that parents waiting in line to pick up and drop off their children were blocking their driveways, driving through their grass, littering and speeding.

In an email to the town council last year, Loschin said school officials had asked parents to respect property owners as they drive through their neighborhoods.

Department of Transportation.

Another state law spells out rules for proceeding through an all-way stop intersection: “The first driver to reach the intersection should move forward first. If two drivers reach the intersection at the same time, the driver on the right would proceed first.”

In Summerfield, two of the stormrelated calls resulted from power generators setting off carbon monoxide alarms inside of houses. Daniels urged residents to operate generators only outside of the home, and at least 20 feet from windows. Generators should not be operated in garages, even if the doors are open, Gauldin said.

Daniels added that gas grills should only be used outside, and several feet from the home or a structure.

In Stokesdale, one of the storm-related calls resulted from a power surge that damaged some appliances, Gauldin said. To prevent such damage, Daniels urged homeowners to unplug appliances before storms strike, or when the power goes out.

Summerfield Fire Chief Chris Johnson also reminded homeowners to turn off electric stove burners when their power goes out. If not, they may forget to check their stovetops when electricity returns, creating the possibility that pots will overheat and catch fire.

Gauldin recommended that homeowners take precaution in advance of storms. Stocking up on drinking water and foods that don’t require cooking “can help you get through the period when you don’t have power or are enduring the storm,” he said.

The best care

for moms and babies

before you’re pregnant, you want the best maternity care around. When you choose Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist High Point Medical Center, you’re partnering with the community’s leader in maternity care. We’re here for you every step of the way, with expert OB/GYNs, unmatched fertility and high-risk specialists, and direct access to the region’s most advanced NICU at Brenner Children’s Hospital.

F3: Come for the fitness, stay for the fellowship

Local men enrich their lives and develop leadership through workouts, socializing and serving

by PATTI STOKES (aka “Typo”)

OAK RIDGE/NW GUILFORD – “Leave no man behind, but leave no man where you find him.” That’s the creed of F3, a national program that includes free, peer-led workouts for men in various regions of the country and across the world.

Every week at noon – rain or shine – a group of F3 participants gathers at Oak Ridge Town Park for a challenging 45-minute workout, a time to focus on faith and serving, and afterwards, socializing. At its core, those are the three components of F3 – faith, fitness and fellowship.

The F3 mission is to “plant, grow and serve small workout groups for men for the invigoration of male community leadership.”

Most F3 groups meet in “the gloom” – at 5:30 a.m. – and a few meet during evening hours and on Saturday mornings, but the group I recently shadowed blessedly meets every Wednesday at noon (a much more appealing time for me, especially if it involves being active).

Mark Veradi (aka “Spurrier” – we’ll get to the reason for the nickname later) started the noon F3 workout group in January 2020, after working from home. Attendance picked up as others also started working at home during the peak of COVID; several men have since returned to the office and aren’t available midday, but on any given day between five and 20

Mark Veradi, aka “Spurrier,” is light on his feet while doing a skater’s exercise during an F3 afternoon workout he led at Oak Ridge Town Park on Sept. 13.

men will show up.

As in other F3 groups, participants range widely in age, backgrounds and fitness levels. Before joining the group, many had experienced a decline in their fitness levels over the years.

“I think a lot of people would say they’ve gotten in the best shape of their adult life doing this,” said Val Follo, whose F3 name is “Heisenberg.”

“I wish I’d done it several years ago, when I first saw a group like this and thought, ‘wow, I’d like to get in a men’s group like that,’” said Jeff Bacon, aka “Kevin,” 65. “But I thought, ‘Ahhh, I’d better get myself in shape first…’ when I finally started, I was in even worse shape, but this really

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

DAR Chapter honors local veterans

Photo by Linda Branch/ Guilford Battle Chapter, NSDAR  Guilford Battle Chapter NSDAR (National Society Daughters of the American Revolution) honored area veterans with Quilts of Valor at its Sept. 8 meeting. Quilts of Valor Chair and Daughter, Marty Smith, and her committee lovingly made and presented honorees from World War II through service people of today with beautiful red, white and blue quilts. Shown in photo are: James Osborne Hale, Frank Legrand Smith, Scott Mason, Ronald Flippin, James Phillips Jr., Robert Davis Sr., Joseph Harkins, Jeffrey Moss, Noel von Glahn, James Flanigan and Derek Doe. “We are truly grateful for their service, sacrifice and love of America. It is an honor to honor them,” a local DAR chapter member said.

R�n

Good Samaritan Ministries seeking neighbors to help neighbors

The nonprofit, which is supported by donations, provides charitable services to area residents

STOKESDALE – Good Samaritan Ministries (GSM) of Stokesdale is an affiliation of churches, businesses and individuals working together to provide charitable services to people who live in the Stokesdale area and neighboring communities. The nonprofit, which is 100% donation-dependent and staffed by volunteers, operates a monthly food and clothing pantry and provides financial assistance to those in need.

older resident whose dog recently died. Additionally, GSM is low on funds and is asking for donations so it can continue helping those with short-term financial needs.

want to help?

Jamieson,

Ridge,

charity

proceeds

construction of the Veterans Honor Green

Oak Ridge’s new Heritage Farm Park.

Over the last several months, GSM has seen an increase in calls from people needing assistance in various ways. Besides donations, the nonprofit has an immediate need for two items –a refrigerator and a small- to mediumsize dog who will be a companion to an

To make a financial donation, make checks out to Good Samaritan Ministries and mail to GSM, 7769 N.C. Hwy. 68N, Stokesdale, NC 27357. To donate items or for more information about GSM, contact Terri Johnson at terrij1957@ yahoo.com or (336) 643-5887 and visit www.Facebook.com/ stokesdalegoodsamaritans.

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

Friends of Stokesdale, a nonprofit focused on preserving Stokesdale’s history, recently placed this miniature train across from the post office in downtown Stokesdale to help promote the organization’s upcoming Farmers’ Day. Farmers’ Day was originally scheduled to take place Oct. 1 on the grounds of Stokesdale United Methodist Church, but was postponed due to the effects of the storm this past weekend; it has been rescheduled for Saturday, Oct. 22, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. FOS’s train replica made its first appearance last year in the town’s Christmas parade and took first place in the float competition. When in operation, smoke billows from the smokestack.

Next

for every weather extreme

CSM

Bronx gave 14 years of love, friendship and devotion to his family before passing away on Aug. 22. Dearly loved by many, Bronx watched over Emery and Dax (pictured above) as they grew. He will be dearly missed!

Lexi Reid lives with her owner, Shelly, in northwest Greensboro. A 5-year-old Jack Russell terrier mix, Lexi loves to give kisses and hates anything with

a cord!

Moose, a 5-year-old pomchi, loves to do all things with Londyn, 10, and Harper, 5. In addition to spending time with his family, Moose loves to chew on his toys!

Oreo, who lives in Oak Ridge, is related to Ernest Hemingway’s Key West cats who have thumbs. She has taught herself to use her mittens to wave for treats.

to the advertisers who made this section possible.

A second chance for Stella

P�m�k�n P�t�h D�y�

& Sun.

Donna Rogers, an avid dog lover, is on a mission to help address the overpopulation of dogs in shelters, rescue organizations and on the streets.

“If everyone who has a dog would take in another dog, the problem would be solved,” she said with the hint of a smile.

While that may seem a bit farfetched, Rogers, who owns Bill’s Pizza Pub restaurants in Oak Ridge and in Greensboro, is so adamant about doing her part that, just a few weeks ago, she brought home a third rescue dog to join her other two rescues, Mya, an American bulldog mix, and Chloe, a hound mix.

The 2-year-old beagle that Rogers named Stella came from a particularly devastating situation – she’s one of about 4,000 beagles that were rescued this past July from Envigo, a mass breeding facility in Cumberland, Virginia.

According to an article published in The New York Times on July 12 and updated July 28, conditions in the facility were horrific.

“Several inspections of the Envigo breeding and research facility in Cumberland, Virginia, over the past two years found dozens of violations of federal regulations, leaving the beagles underfed, ill, injured and, in some cases, dead,” the article read.

During her time at Envigo, Stella had been bred about every six months. She was housed in a cramped, barren cage in one of several sheds that stretched along an area as long as a football field. With hundreds of dogs crammed into the buildings, the noise from the constant barking was described as being “louder than a rock concert.”

Like the other beagles, Stella was treated as a product to be sold to laboratories for experimentation purposes. There was little human interaction and no concern for how the dogs were handled. Fortunately, the facility has been closed and barred from breeding, selling, or experimenting on any dogs.

Although Rogers knew a dog coming from this situation would be a challenge, she wanted to help, so when she learned Triangle Beagle Rescue (TriBeagles), a nonprofit in the Raleigh-Chapel Hill area, had a group of the rescues, she put in her application and was accepted.

Rogers said the day she picked Stella up to bring her home, the little dog was petrified.

“I had to put her in a crate to come home,” Rogers recalled. “By the time I got home, she was covered in slobber. She was just so afraid.”

When Stella arrived at her new home, she initially didn’t want anything to do with Rogers or the other two dogs in the home.

“In the beginning, she stayed in the back of her crate, and I needed to pull her out,” Rogers said.

Stella has now been in the household for about six weeks, and Rogers said she is noticing slow but definite progress. Stella is already starting to bond with Rogers, Mya and Chloe, and is feisty enough that if one of the other dogs has a toy, she doesn’t hesitate to take it away.

Rescued beagle learns to trust as she adapts to her new home and packmates by ANNETTE JOYCE

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

Rogers and her rescued beagle,

“She’s still afraid of men and I have to pick her up a lot,” Rogers said. “She’s also nervous around anybody she’s not familiar with.”

Rogers realizes that she’ll probably never be able to board Stella in a kennel when she goes out of town.

“I took the other girls to a kennel and Stella could hear all the other dogs barking,” she said. “She was so upset that she peed and vomited.”

Because she came from such an isolated and confined environment, Stella has required a lot of time and patience as she works on socializing with people and other dogs, and as she is exposed to different environments.

“You have to be accommodating and willing to change with a dog like this,” Rogers said.

While Rogers said rescuing a dog may be considered admirable, it requires a special kind of commitment

and isn’t for everyone.

Working with rescues calls for a tremendous amount of patience, she noted, stressing that nothing happens overnight.

“Just be real patient and expect the process to be back and forth,” she said. “You’ll take some steps forward and some backwards.”

Rogers said when she first started rescuing dogs, she heard some basic guidelines that have helped her better understand and help them as they adapt to their new surroundings.

“They say it takes three days for a dog to get acclimated to their new spot, three weeks to feel safe in the environment and three months to feel like they’re part of the pack,” she said.

As Stella sits calmly in Rogers’s lap, it’s obvious that this once seriously mistreated pup is making her own place in her new pack and enjoying this second chance in life.

Cats need second chances, too!

Sheets Pet Clinic, a full-service vet clinic in Greensboro, provides a low-cost spay/neuter service, rescue rates to animal nonprofits, and hosts a cat adoption program. With an ever-growing population of homeless cats, the clinic seeks foster homes for cats, volunteers to help care for them, donations to cover the cost of their food and care, and adopters willing to provide a forever home. For more info, visit Facebook.com/SheetsPetClinic or email Sarah Hodges, cat adoption coordinator, at petadoptions@sheetspetclinic.com.

Adoptable Pets

Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network

ATLAS

Meet Atlas, a spirited and loving 18-month-old female pup who is looking for a forever home. She enjoys long walks, playing with toys and spending time with other dogs. Atlas previously lived in a home with a cat, so she is cat-friendly as well! No worries about all that puppy training, because this 55-pound beauty is already housebroken, crate-trained and walks well on a leash. If Atlas sounds like a good fit for your family, please visit us at reddogfarm.com and fill out an application!

STACHE

Meet Stache, short for “Milk-mustache.” She was found alone in someone’s garage and they were not able to keep her, so asked if we could help her find a forever home. “She is sooo sweet and loving, and she likes other cats and dogs!” Stache’s foster mom reports. This sweet baby needs an indoor home and she is spayed, microchipped and up-to-date on her age-appropriate vaccines. For more info or to apply to adopt this lovely girl, please visit www.reddogfarm.com.

If you are interested in learning more about Atlas, Stache, or any of our other adoptable animals, please visit www.reddogfarm.com, where you can also fill out an application for adoption if you wish.

Guilford County Animal Resource Center

POE

October, the month of ghosts and scary stories, is perfect for adopting Poe, a 9-pound ginger tabby named for Edgar Allan Poe, a writer best known for his poetry and short stories, particularly his tales of mystery and the macabre. Poe the cat is 10 years old, neutered and somewhat timid (probably because he’s been reading too much of his namesake’s writing; his favorite is “The Raven”). Don’t say “nevermore” to Poe – please ask for him by ID#GCAS-A-3688.

BENTLEY

Meet Bentley, a 2-year-old pit bull terrier. This handsome guy with the spiffy black-and-white coat weighs 50 pounds, and he’s all ready to enjoy a game of catch with his pumpkin-colored ball. When he’s not playing with a toy or taking a walk, Bentley dreams of taking rides in a vintage British Bentley Speed Six racing car (with his head hanging out of the window, of course!). Please ask for Bentley by ID#GCAS-A-4580.

Guilford County Animal Resource Center

Kids’ Korner

AWESOME ANIMALS

Okapi did you know?

• O�en mistaken as being related to the zebra family due to its black and white stripes, the okapi is actually part of the Giraffidae family and is the only living rela�ve of the giraffe.

• Similari�es between the okapi and giraffe include ossicones (conical skin-covered bone structures on the heads of giraffes and found on the male okapi) and long, dark-colored tongues.

• The okapi is na�ve to the Ituri Rainforest in the Democra�c Republic of Congo — this is the the only place where it can be found in the wild.

• The majority of the okapi’s body is covered with dark purple or reddish-brown fur, which is very dense and feels like velvet. Okapis’ skin produces oil which helps waterproof their fur, an extremely beneficial adapta�on for living in a rainforest.

• Okapis blend into their surroundings thanks to the brown and white stripes on their legs and rump, which mimic the appearance of streaks of sunlight coming through the trees.

• Okapis eat a plant-based diet consis�ng of fruits, buds, leaves, twigs and other vegeta�on, consuming 45 to 60 pounds of food each day. Their long tongues help them to reach high branches.

• Okapis have four stomachs that aid with diges�ng tough plants. Interes�ngly, most of the plants they eat are actually poisonous to humans!

• Okapis are o�en referred to as “elusive.” They prefer to be alone and are rarely seen in the wild. In fact, there were no images of an okapi in the wild un�l 2008, when the first wild okapi photo was captured by a Zoological Society of London camera trap.

• Okapis typically give birth to just one baby, called a calf, and have a 14- to 16-month gesta�on period.

• Okapis are considered endangered, largely as a result of habitat loss and hun�ng.

ank you to Greensboro Science Center for sponsoring this issue’s Kids’ Korner

Okapis have dense, velvety fur. Their fur is also oily, so water slides right o . This helps to keep them dry on rainy days!

Drive,

Church celebrates 111th birthday

an annual homecoming service on Oct. 2,

of appreciation were offered for the eight charter members who founded the church in 1911

 This photo shows the building that members of Union Grove Baptist Church initially met in, which was constructed in 1912. It was raised by neighborhood men and built from donated lumber. Church women pitched in enthusiastically, selling a handmade quilt embroidered with members’ names. The offering of a farmer’s dinner bell called folks to worship, and the membership cut logs to stoke the church’s pot-bellied stove. Because it had been birthed in a grove of trees, “Union Grove” was the assembly’s choice for a church name.  This photo taken in the 1950s shows people entering Union Grove Baptist Church to attend a Sunday morning service.

Photos courtesy of Town of Oak Ridge

Union Grove Baptist Church on N.C. 150 West in Oak Ridge celebrated its 111th birthday on Oct. 2 while paying homage to the church’s eight charter members who began meeting in 1911 in a “brush arbor.” The arbor consisted of rough-hewn planks placed on log pieces, cut branches for shelter overhead, and a hand-hewn stand for the preacher’s Bible.

At the church’s first revival meeting, there were 23 converts, and a nearby

pond was used for baptisms.

A first report to the Pilot Mountain Baptist Association in 1912 lists Union Grove’s church property value at $700, and Sunday school enrollment at 115.

Over the ensuing years membership continued to grow and Union Grove eventually expanded its ministry down to the crossroads of N.C. 68 and 150. Oak Ridge Baptist Mission first met in

Novant Health,

locations

Saturday, Oct. 1

Summer eld Fire District hosted its sixth annual Stop, Drop and Roll 5K walk/run on Oct. 1 and despite the power outages from the a ermath of Hurricane Ian and a steady mist, 166 walkers and runners registered to participate. A erward, everyone enjoyed traditional 5K walk/run refreshments as well as a delicious bowl of chili. Proceeds from the event were split between the Summer eld Fire ghters Charitable Corporation and Donald’s Fire Haven Museum in Pleasant Garden.

Summer eld Fire District thanks its many Stop, Drop and Roll sponsors as well as all the volunteers and participants who made this year’s event such a fun and successful one.

See more

this event

Alex Howerton, 16, of Oak Ridge is the rst runner to cross the 5K nish line, with a chip time of 19.21.3 (Alex was also the top nisher in 2021, with a time of 19.55.7).

Jordan Williams of Greensboro

(le ) carries her friend with an injured foot over the nish line while another friend holds an umbrella over her.

Bethany Pace, 17, of Greensboro, nished with a chip time of 21:53.47 to take h place overall and rst place in the female overall category.

Photos by Patti Stokes/NWO

Shawn Momtahen, 74, of Greensboro was the oldest participant in the 5K and nished with a chip time of 32.31.3.

Younger kids enjoy dashing around the re department building in Sparky’s Dash, which kicks o the Stop, Drop and Roll event each year. Some people come for the running and walking, but we’re pretty sure some are drawn to the event for the delicious chili that re ghters David Inman (le ) and Johnny Mitchell cook up each year.

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Lizzie Daniels, 10, of Summer eld gets encouragement from her mom, assistant re chief Jenna Daniels, as she makes her way across the nish line.

INVESTMENTS | INSURANCE | RETIREMENT

Your

‘I wanted to win’

Roger L. Nelson, former Northwest Guilford High School basketball coach and principal, recounts his accomplishments in a book now in the school’s library

by CHRIS BURRITT

KING – Roger L. Nelson, Northwest Guilford High School’s retired principal and basketball coach, looks out the window of his nursing home room in King, a foothills town about 40 miles northwest of his old school.

Nelson, 89, doesn’t walk anymore, nor does he hear well. He talks in spurts, recounting snippets from decades ago that are chronicled in a book written by his friend Dottie Little Pyrtle.

basketball team at Colfax School to the state championship in 1962. After the consolidation of the schools in Colfax, Summerfield and Stokesdale in the early 1960s led to the creation of NWHS, he became the first boys’ basketball coach at the new school. The team won the state championship

in 1967.

Roger Nelson, former Northwest Guilford High School basketball coach and principal, holds a copy of his recently published book, “The Adventures of Roger L. Nelson.” In it, Nelson recounts his experiences growing up as one of 10 children in a small, three-room house in Kernersville and his 36 years of working in public education.

A few weeks ago, the two friends took a copy of “The Adventures of Roger L. Nelson” to NWHS and donated it to the library. Earlier, the public library in Kernersville accepted a copy of the book.

“I wanted to win,” Nelson said in an interview earlier this week, explaining his motivation as a coach and educator. He recalled his love of sports, growing up in Kernersville and living there for all of his life until he moved into the Priddy Manor assisted living home last year.

As a coach, Nelson led the boys’

The high school’s gymnasium is named in honor of Nelson. Aside from his winning basketball teams, he was named Guilford County’s principal of the year in 1986-87. Two years later, he was a finalist for principal of the year statewide. Nelson embraced several new initiatives in his role as principal. Based on new research at the time, he abandoned the practice of separating students by academic performance – advanced, regular and “slow learning.”

“It soon became evident that the research on that approach was correct, and the students would do just as well academically,” Nelson wrote in his book. “We learned of an additional plus – student discipline was improved by 50%.”

After 36 years in public education, Nelson retired as NWHS’s principal in 1994. In his first several years of retirement, he hunted and fished and traveled across the country with his wife,

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

Ordinary people, Extraordinary impact

Phyllis Anders:

by ANNETTE JOYCE

Phyllis Anders, 78, probably accomplishes more than most people half her age. When she sees something that needs to be done, she doesn’t wait for someone else to do it, rather steps up and volunteers to do it herself.

That’s what happened 14 years ago when she approached Oak Ridge Town Council about having concerts in the park because she felt it would be good for the community and appreciated by the town’s older population.

Gladly taking ownership of the town’s Music in the Park program, Anders proceeded to sign up bands, seek volunteers, gather door prizes and, early on, even made some of the concession food.

“It started out very small, with only local bands,” she said. “Over the years, it’s gotten bigger and better, and people really seem to enjoy it.”

“Phyllis grabs the bull by the horns and makes it happen,” said Sandra Smith, Oak Ridge assistant town manager/town clerk. “She’s not afraid to ask for something if she thinks it will benefit the community. She’s the one behind getting a new concession trailer and she also pushed to get a golf cart to transport people back and forth from the parking lot to the amphitheater in the park.”

Spurred on by her love for Oak Ridge, Anders

by

of Oak Ridge and helping others

said, “I want to give to the town as long as I live.”

Besides her involvement with the town’s Music in the Park program, Anders serves on Oak Ridge’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Farmhouse Community Center Committee and Heritage Day Committee.

“She sees the value of community events and doesn’t shy away from rolling up her sleeves and working hard to make them successful,” Smith said.

Anders quickly points out that Oak Ridge’s events wouldn’t be as successful without the commitment and teamwork of so many volunteers, staff and council members.

“I really enjoy seeing us all working together as a community,” she said. “We’re all reaching out to make things even better than they already are.”

Anders also has a heart for older people and those who aren’t able to get out and about very much, so she devotes a lot of time to visiting them and taking them food or special treats during the holidays.

“I just like doing for people,” Anders said. “So many people did for my mama. She loved seeing people so much, even if they only stayed for five minutes. I learned then that people who can’t get out need someone to make them feel special.”

Besides volunteering in the community, Anders is also active in Central Baptist Church and in Moravia Moravian Church, where her 17-year-old grandson, Wilson Anders, attends. Head of communion at Central Baptist, Anders is so proud that Wilson was asked by the pastor to take on the same role at Moravia Moravian.

Much of Anders’ world revolves around Wilson, who was born with Down syndrome. In fact, he’s often by her side at community events.

“He enjoys life so much and he helps me enjoy life,” she said. “That’s something we all should do more of.”

Stokesdale

High

High

“Never forget that it is by choice that the ordinary person decides to live a life that is extraordinary.” – Cheryl Koevoet, author

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

Phyllis Anders

Oak Ridge Commons

ROGER

Carol, their children and friends.

Growing up, Nelson was the middle of 10 children living in a three-room house in Kernersville. His mother was a homemaker, his father a carpenter. He slept on a straw-tick mattress with a brother and sister. On the way to school in the morning, Nelson veered onto the baseball field and ran around the bases before entering the building.

As a boy, he played baseball, learned from his dad how to drive nails, and fed the hogs. The father and son fished and hunted squirrels and rabbits. He still owns some of his father’s pocket knives and his double barrel shotgun.

Fresh out of high school, Nelson liked to play pool and hang out on a street corner with friends. Stern advice from a Kernersville police officer set the young man back on track.

He veered into serious trouble, though, when he ran a batch of

moonshine from a neighboring county –and the police found him out.

The policeman asked Nelson to take a ride with him. He suggested to Nelson that he join the U.S. Marine Corps as an option to getting in more trouble and besmirching his family’s good name.

Little Pyrtle on the girls’ basketball team in the early 1960s. The two recon nected in 2018 when she called to invite him to a Colfax class reunion.

Both had lost their spouses two years earlier. Over dinners out, their friendship blossomed, and Pyrtle has continued to visit him often at Priddy Manor.

“He is in a wheel chair now, but he enjoys going out for scenic rides and to the Olympic Restaurant in Colfax to meet with former basketball players, coaches, principals, and friends,” Pyrtle wrote in an email last month.

As they spent time together, Pyrtle said she decided Nelson needed to write his life story.

writing service, as a guide, Nelson told the story of his life to Pyrtle, who typed his words into her computer.

She suggested to Nelson “that we just tell your life story, starting with your childhood.”

They’ve published about 50 copies since 2020, giving them as keepsakes to Nelson’s relatives and friends.

“Roger has a great attitude and loves people,” Pyrtle said. “He doesn’t hear, see or walk like he used to. But he can probably tell you the final score in those two state championship games. I never met anyone like him.”

want a copy?

After his military service and gradu ating from High Point College in 1958, Nelson started his teaching career in Stokes County. Shortly afterward, he returned to Guilford County where he taught and coached at Colfax School.

At Colfax, Nelson coached Dottie

“He worked hard, but he played hard, too,” she said in an interview earlier this week. “He is a people person. I’ve never been anywhere when somebody didn’t know him or speak to him.”

Writing the book represented a team effort. Using Storyworth, an online book

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Although available copies of Nelson’s book are limited, anyone wishing to buy a copy can email dottiepyrtle@gmail.com with their name; she’ll then sign them up as a shared individual on Storyworth.com, which will allow them to order the book online.

“It was the best thing I ever did,” Nelson wrote in his book. “From that point on, my life seemed to have a purpose. I was ambitious and motivated to find the next ‘best thing I ever did.’”

Every participant has a nickname which the group assigns when he joins, and it’s both personal and very original. The way it works is, when a new participant comes on board, he stands in the middle of a circle, surrounded by group members, and shares some things about himself. Drawing from that, members then throw out suggestions for the name the participant will

go by going forward, which is ultimately chosen by consensus – or, if necessary, by that day’s leader. (As a guest, I received an honorary name – “Typo” – after one of the things I shared was that I enjoy writing, editing and “catching typos”).

As an example, one participant in the noon F3 group, John Bate, was dubbed “Snow White” after he shared that he and his wife have seven children. Got it? “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs?”

Other F3 names include

“Mugsy,” “Wojo,” “Loveseat,” “Blow Out,” “Hoosier,” “Eggplant” and “Butterball”

– for reasons I’m not quite sure of but can only imagine.

Photos by Patti Stokes/NWO Jeff Bacon, aka “Bacon,” sprints down the field during an F3 afternoon workout at Oak Ridge Town Park on Sept. 13.

The workouts are strenuous, but participants are encouraged to modify as needed. On the day I shadowed this group of seven men, ages 20 to 66, it was about 80 degrees, sunny with no breeze, and quite toasty on the park’s open soccer field. “Spurrier” was taking his turn as peer leader, and he led the group through sets of “normal” exercises such as squats, sit-ups, calf raises and star jumps, with some having unusual names like “merkins” (pushups). Then there were more squats with bursts of running in between. Just following them around from one end of the park’s soccer field to the other with a heavy camera and long lens around my neck was a workout!

Afterward, the group gathered in a “Circle of Trust,” which involves announcements and shared concerns, and ends with a prayer.

This “faith” component of F3 is “not limited to one type of faith,” Bacon noted.

“For many of us the faith piece is a religious thing, but for others it’s just about something bigger and beyond you, whether that would be serving, or how you want to look beyond yourself,” Veradi added.

And after that, it’s off for fellowship, which for this group usually entails a Lowes Foods’ sushi lunch special.

As an extension of the fellowship component, group members also gather outside of regular meeting days to socialize, offer support, and participate in community projects and charitable causes.

Vince Williams, aka “Weed” (he’s in the landscaping business), belongs to an F3 group that also meets in Oak

John Bate proudly sports his “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”

T-shirt, which pays homage to his F3 nickname, “Snow White.”

Ridge Town Park, on Tuesday mornings at 5:30 a.m.

“When I was invited out to the group, I knew I was out of shape and thought I probably would not fit in,” he shared. “The first five minutes seemed awkward, as I didn’t know what the heck these guys were talking about with their ‘secret language’ and abbreviated terms.

“Before the workout started, one of the men yelled out, ‘Pitino, Bulldog, pick up the new guy!’ They responded ‘Aye! We got ‘em!’” Williams said.

“I understood ‘new guy,’ but since I hadn’t fallen yet, I didn’t really know what they meant,” he continued. “‘Pitino’ and ‘Bulldog’ had been assigned to work closely with me and explain the exercises as they were dished out.

“The work was hard, but what I remember the most about that day was the banter, more so than a ‘beatdown’ as they call it,” Williams said. “I remember ‘Stickshift’ cutting up with ‘Slumlord’ and the group laughing together while sweat poured on the pavement – and ‘Red Dragon’ shouting intermittently at the end of exercises, ‘Great work... Great work fellas!!’

“And of course, ‘Spike,’ a

15-year-old kid who was leading these men on this particular day. He was organized, assertive and had no mercy on our poor souls. I was so impressed that there seemed to be so many positive leaders all working together in this group,” Williams continued. “I left the workout feeling accomplished, since

I did not “toss merlot” (another term used to describe throwing up). Mostly, I reflected on the camaraderie and interesting characters within the group.

I knew I wanted to go back the next day and did just that.”

want to learn more?

To learn more about F3, visit f3nation. com. For F3 groups that meet in the northwest Guilford area, visit F3 GSO-Northern Alliance at f3na. com, and for Greensboro-based groups, visit f3greensboro.com.

A female counterpart to F3, FIA (Females in Action), also meets three times a week at Oak Ridge Town Park. For more info about this group and their workout schedules, visit fianation.com/locations/ north-carolina/greensboro/.

ELECT PHIL BYRD Nov. 8 FOR GUILFORD COUNTY SHERIFF

We need a Sheriff:

Who understands the duties and responsibilities of an elected Sheriff. We need a Sheriff with the knowledge, integrity, and experience to successfully lead a staff of 673 members, oversee an operational budget of $70 million, and the responsibil ity of two major jail complexes. The current leadership has failed the employees and citizens of Guilford County.

Why Phil Byrd?

I served 30 years, over half of my life, as a Guilford County Deputy Sheriff. I developed my education, experience, and leadership from the ground up. I began my career as a Detention Officer, working through the ranks of the Sheriff’s Office. I served as a Detective Sergeant for 9 years, Operations Lieu tenant for 3 years, and 10 years as a Captain, commanding 4 separate divisions before my retirement in 2014. I continued my sworn status until December 2018. There are few qualifications to place your name on a ballot for Sheriff. It is up you, the voter, to make sure the candidate possesses the qualifications to lead the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office.

Qualifications:

John Wesley College, B.A. Management & Christian Ethics ● University of Louisville, Advanced Certificate Police Science & Administration ● 22 years N.C. Certified Law Enforcement Instructor ● 15 Years N.C. Certified Law Enforcement Firearms Instructor ● 22 years supervisory and command level experience ● Lifelong resident of Guilford County

What I will do as your Sheriff:

• I will put the law-abiding citizen first.

• I will hold myself accountable to you.

• I will work tirelessly to provide the safety your communities deserve.

• I will place emphasis on making our schools safer for students and staff by building proposals with “facts and dollars” and garnering support from local government and school leaders. Not only will I identify the problems, I will deliver plans to solve the problems.

• I will promote and build the morale of officers.

• I will be fiscally responsible with your tax dollars.

• I will earn the loyalty and respect of my staff based on supportive leadership and my wiliness to lead by example.

Experience matters more than ever!

PAID FOR BY THE COMMITTEE TO ELECT PHIL BYRD SHERIFF

early voting begins Oct. 20

mark your calendar

REGISTER NOW

Honor Run, Oct. 15 | Nick Jamieson, a Life Scout with Oak Ridge Troop 600, is directing a 5K and 1-mile fun run/walk for his Eagle Scout project on Saturday, Oct. 15, starting at 8:30 a.m. at Oak Ridge Town Park, 6231 Lisa Drive. There will be a ceremony before the race to recognize local veterans, and proceeds from the event will go towards the future Veterans Honor Green in Heritage Farm Park. The 5K will be professionally chip-timed by Gate City Timing. Register for the 1-mile fun run and 5K at www.runsignup.com/Race/NC/ OakRidge/5KHonorRunWalk. See ad on p. 10

 Golf tournament fundraiser, Oct. 29 | Northwest High School invites local golfers to participate in the 2nd annual baseball program’s golf tournament fundraiser on Oct. 29 at Pine Knolls Golf Club, 1100 Quail Hollow Road in Kernersville. Participants can sign up to play at 8 a.m. or 1 p.m. Lunch will be provided. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Register by Oct. 25. More info: president@diamondnwvikings.com or (704) 576-8429.

EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY

 Farmers markets | Stokesdale Farmers Market, held at Stokesdale United Methodist Church, 8305 Loyola Drive, is open Tuesdays, 4 to 7 p.m. (through Oct. 25)

and Oak Ridge Farmers Market, held at Oak Ridge Military Academy, 2317 Oak Ridge Road, is open Thursdays from 4 p.m. to dusk (through Oct. 27).

THURSDAY, OCT. 6

 Town Council meeting | Oak Ridge Town Council will meet Oct. 6, starting at 7 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road. Attend in person or watch the meeting in real time or at a later time on the town’s YouTube channel (a link to the recorded meeting will also be posted on the town’s Facebook page). Read meeting preview on p. 2, and visit www.oakridgenc.com for more info or a meeting agenda.

SATURDAY, OCT. 8

 Fire Dept. BBQ | Oak Ridge Fire Department will host a takeout-only BBQ on Oct. 8, 9 a.m. to 12 noon (or until the BBQ runs out) at Station 15, 8325 Linville Road in Oak Ridge. BBQ costs $9/pound and “secret sauce” is $3/container. Cash or check only. No preorders. More info: (336) 643-3783.

 Touch-A-Truck | The Town of Summerfield invites the community to this hands-on family event Oct. 8, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Summerfield Athletic Park, 5200 U.S. 220 N. There will be a wide variety of public service, emergency, military, construction, and other vehicles for children to view, climb on and ask questions about. Trained operators will be on hand to explain how these vehicles are used in the community. As in years past, Vulcan Materials will provide free hot dogs, and Kona Ice will be onsite selling shaved ice. No pets allowed. More info: Cheryl Gore, (336) 643-8655 or cgore@summerfieldnc.gov. See ad on p. 32

 Music in the Park | Oak Ridge’s Parks & Recreation Advisory Board invites the community to the last Music in the Park event for 2022 on Oct. 8 at Oak Ridge Town Park Amphitheater, 6231 Lisa Drive. Twin County Ramblers will play old time/bluegrass music from 5:30 to 7 p.m.; The Robertson Boys will play Americana/country/gospel music from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket; food available for purchase. No alcohol allowed. Conations for the band are appreciated.

MONDAY, OCT. 10

 Red Cross blood drive | Oak Ridge United Methodist Church, 2424 Oak Ridge Road, will host a blood drive Oct. 10, 2 to 6:30 p.m. All blood types are needed. Appointments recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Make an appointment at www.oakridgeumc.org/events.

 Northwest Guilford Woman’s Club | Northwest Guilford Woman’s Club (NGWC), a nonprofit with members including women from all walks of life who share a commitment to community service, will hold its monthly meeting Oct. 10, starting at 7 p.m. To learn more about NGWC or to attend the meeting as a guest, contact Tiffany Hansen, president, at (336) 404-8038 or tiffanykhansen96@gmail.com.

OCT. 11, 13 & 20

 Senior programs | Senior Resources of Guilford County sponsors senior programs including activities and a take-home lunch from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon on various days of the month at locations around northwest/northern Guilford County. On Oct. 11 the program will be hosted by Center United Methodist Church (6142 Lake Brandt Road in northern Greensboro) and Shady Grove Wesleyan Church (119 N. Bunker Hill Road in Colfax). On Oct. 13 the program will be hosted by Stokesdale UMC (8305 Loyola Drive). On Oct. 20 the program will be hosted by Summerfield First Baptist Church (2300 Scalesville Road). To learn more and/or RSVP at Center UMC, contact the church at (336) 643-7765; for the others, contact Marsha McDaniel, (336) 373-4816, ext. 265.

TUESDAY, OCT. 11

 Town Council meeting | Summerfield Town Council will meet Oct. 11, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Summerfield Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road. The meeting will be livestreamed on the Town’s Facebook page. Visit www.summerfieldnc.gov for more info or a meeting agenda.

THURSDAY, OCT. 13

 Town Council meeting | Stokesdale Town Council will meet Oct. 13, starting at 7 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. Citizens may attend in person or view the meeting in real time or at a later time on the town’s YouTube channel. Visit www.stokesdale.org for a meeting agenda.

FRIDAY, OCT. 14

 Movie in the Park | Town of Summerfield will host its last free Movie in the Park of the year on Oct. 14 at Summerfield Athletic Park, 5200 U.S. 220 N; the featured movie will be “Monsters, Inc.” Music begins at 6:15 p.m. and dancers from Bella Ballerina Greensboro will perform. The

movie will begin at 7:15 p.m. (dusk). Kona Ice will be onsite selling shaved ice. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on. See ad on p. 6

TUESDAY, OCT. 18

 Cruise-in | Come see the collection of classic cars, hot rods and muscle cars and meet their owners at Oak Ridge Commons shopping center during the last cruise-in of the season on Oct. 18 (weather permitting). Participants usually start arriving in the late afternoon and leave by dark. No entry fee or advance registration for car owners – just show up and park in the designated area that will be marked off. More info: Mike Stone, cruise-in coordinator, (336) 402-0144.

SATURDAY, OCT. 22

 Farmers’ Day | Due to Hurricane Ian, Friends of Stokesdale rescheduled its Farmers Day that had been planned for Oct. 1. Show off your farm equipment and share your knowledge of Stokesdale’s farming history with others in the community on Oct. 22, 9 a.m. to

4 p.m. at Stokesdale United Methodist Church, 8305 Loyola Drive. There will be a “Little Mr. & Miss Farmers’ Day” contest open to children ages infant to 5 years old; winners will receive a trophy, have their pictures taken and get to ride on the Friends of Stokesdale float in the Stokesdale Christmas parade. More info: www.facebook.com/ friendsofstokesdale or send an email friendsofstokesdale@gmail.com. See ad on p. 5

SATURDAY, OCT. 29

 Great Pumpkin Event | Merchants of Oak Ridge will host its annual Great Pumpkin Event for kids (and pets) of all ages on Oct. 29, 2 to 4 p.m. at Oak Ridge Commons shopping center, intersection of N.C. 68 and 150 in Oak Ridge. Wear your Halloween costume, trick or treat with local merchants, take a hay ride around the shopping center, enjoy live music and participate in human and pet costume contests. See ad on p. 31 for more info

‘Men Can Cook’ – good eats (and drinks) for a cause

Women’s Resource Center of Greensboro is seeking more men who cook to participate in its Oct. 22 fundraiser

by CHRIS BURRITT

GREENSBORO – Years ago, Greensboro resident John Bost attended Men Can Cook, the annual fundraiser for the Women’s Resource Center of Greensboro. After sampling homemade ice cream, he concluded that “I make ice cream better than that.”

That’s all that his wife, Debbie, who served on the center’s board, needed to hear. Ever since, Bost has joined other male “chefs” preparing food to help raise money for the nonprofit organization’s services for women and their families in Guilford County.

John Bost serves ice cream during last year’s Men Can Cook fundraiser for the Women’s Resource Center of Greensboro, which he describes as “the epitome of what a good nonprofit civic organization should be.”

Alan BRANSON

Guilford County Commissioner At-Large

Demetria CARTER

The center is still looking for a few more men to join the 40 who already stepped forward to cook for its Oct. 22 fundraiser, according to Marti Smith, the organization’s director of operations.

Professional credentials aren’t required. Instead, the center said it’s looking for “men who are famous in their own kitchens.”

“I’m not much of a cook, but I make pretty good ice cream,” Bost said in an interview earlier this week. He is still deciding which flavor to make for this month’s event.

In years past, he’s churned cappuccino crunch – light coffee ice cream

with bits of toffee and chocolate – and strawberry cheesecake, butter pecan and a flavor he calls “hot chocolate,” made of dark chocolate with cayenne pepper.

More than the food that he and other chefs prepare, Bost believes in the work of the center. He describes it as “the epitome of what a good nonprofit civic organization should be.”

The center serves more than 7,500 families annually, with job search, career counseling and legal information for women and access to programs and services for them and their families.

Launched in 2001, the Men Can Cook event raises more than $100,000

Guilford County Board of Education At-Large

Graduate of George Mason University, Juris Doctorate degree from Duke University School of Law.

an attorney for the Federal Government, practiced adminis trative and federal contract law.

and parents, first and always. Education,

Photo courtesy of John Bost

Complex Hip or Knee Issues?

Meet the New Doctor at Murphy Wainer Orthopedic Specialists

Specialties:

•Total Hip/Knee Replacement

•Partial Knee Replacement

•Complex Hip/Knee Replacement

•Revision Hip/Knee Replacement

Education:

•Medical degree: Loyola University

Chicago Stritch School of Medicine

•Residency: Orthopedic Surgery, UNC-Chapel Hill

•Fellowship: Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital

Daniel Marchwiany, MD, has joined Murphy Wainer Orthopedic Specialists as an orthopedic surgeon, adding a new dimension to the office’s services.

Now, patients with severe joint deformities, debilitating arthritis or a failed joint replacement can receive specialized care from a surgeon with Harvard Medical School fellowship training in complex and revision hip and knee replacement.

“Completing fellowship training at Massachusetts General Hospital allowed me to care for patients with very complicated problems and severe diseases of the joints, who were referred from across the country and even internationally,” he said. “I am looking forward to bringing that knowledge, the advanced techniques I learned, and a high level of care to the Greensboro community.”

Avoid cybercrime and social media scams

North Carolina Dept. of Information Technology is urging citizens to beware of online scams related to Hurricane Ian.

“Cybercriminals love natural disasters and exploit them to steal personal data – often by posing as official representatives of aid organizations or charities to take advantage of disaster victims and the kindness and generosity of others,” said Kelly Gardner, NCDIT communications officer.

The department offers this advice to

avoid online and social media scams:

• Never click on links in emails or social media posts from unverified senders or accounts.

• Be sure your anti-malware software is up to date, and you’ve implemented anti-phishing capabilities if available.

• Don’t provide personal information or financial information about your business.

To learn more about how you can avoid online scams, visit it.nc.gov/phishing.

CRIME / INCIDENT report

District 1 Sheriff ’s Office

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

ASSAULT

Sept. 26 | Law enforcement officers responded at 3 a.m. to a report of an assault involving a physical altercation in the 7600 block of Keating Drive in Oak Ridge (off N.C. 68).

FRAUD

Sept. 30 | A resident of the 4500 block of Peeples Road in Oak Ridge (off Alcorn Road) reported that between July 12 and Sept. 30 an unknown suspect fraudulently used her Social Security number.

Strawberry Road).

INJURY TO PERSONAL PROPERTY

Sept. 28 | A 44-year-old male was arrested in the 5300 block of Northwest School Road in northwest Greensboro for failure to appear in court for a misdemeanor, injury to personal property and trespassing.

THEFT

Learn more and make an appointment online.

Sept. 30 | A resident of the 8400 block of Norcross Road in Colfax reported that between Sept. 28 and Sept. 30 an unknown suspect attempted to fraudulently use his debit card.

INJURED ANIMAL

Oct. 1 | Officers responded to a report of an injured deer in the 4300 block of Brunello Place in Summerfield (near

Sept. 24 | A resident of the 7800 block of N.C. 68 N in Stokesdale reported that between Sept. 19 and Sept. 24 an unknown suspect stole his yellow/black Caterpillar generator and his red/white STIHL backpack leaf blower, worth $1,100 altogether.

Sept. 25 | A resident of the 300 block of Plainfield Road in northern Greensboro reported an unknown suspect broke into her vehicle and stole her

MEN CAN COOK – GOOD EATS, GOOD CAUSE

...continued from p. 33

a year for the center.

The event later this month in the Piedmont Hall of the Greensboro Coliseum “comes with a twist – a curated tasting of small-batch, hand-crafted wines, beers and distilled spirits” from award-winning producers in the Greensboro area, according to the center’s website.

Grove Winery, South End Brewing Co., Fainting Goat Spirits and Bull City Cider are producing the beverages for “what promises to be the best cocktail party in town,” the center said. Low Key Band will provide live entertainment.

General admission is $50. Gift baskets donated by community supporters will also be sold.

In keeping with the cocktail party atmosphere of the event, Smith’s husband, Brian, is going to prepare charcuterie sticks, an appetizer of

meats, cheeses and vegetables.

An event chef for about five years, Brian Smith believes in the work of the center. It hits “the sweet spot” between helping women and their families until they’re able to pick themselves up, he said.

“It asks women how we can help you,” he said. “But more importantly, it asks how can we help you to help yourself ?”

for more info and to purchase tickets

Visit womenscentergso.org to sign up as a chef or to learn more about the Men Can Cook fundraiser. Tickets for the event can be purchased online or at Women’s Resource Center of Greensboro at 628 Summit Ave. in Greensboro.

CHURCH CELEBRATES 111TH BIRTHDAY

...continued from p. 18

the auditorium of Oak Ridge Elementary School. In 1958, work began on a small brick worship edifice which was to become Central Baptist Church.

In 1977, through the death of a Mexican migrant, a ministry to Hispanics in the area was established. Union Grove provided a final resting place for the young man, Salomon Rios, and began holding services in Spanish for seasonal workers. This culminated eventually into the building of a Hispanic church in the Union Cross area of Kernersville, which flourishes today.

A beautiful structure, fittingly called “The Arbor,” was completed in 2011 on the grounds of Union Grove, taking the place of the basement fellowship hall.

Ruby Combs attended the church’s annual homecoming service on Oct. 2 and shared that she was raised in Union Grove Baptist Church and in February 1953 she and her husband

were the first couple to be married in the church.

“It was under construction, so we were married in an upstairs Sunday School room, which was the most nished spot at that time,” Combs said. “We were married by preacher Baker. I am the last surviving member of my family.”

Connie Lowery Baird was also among those who attended the homecoming service and she shared that her grandparents used to live near the church and would start a fire in the pot-bellied stove there on Sunday mornings to warm up the room where members congregated.

cider

pie

house

apple apple picking

a pumpkin

movie

candy corn Halloween pumpkin bread

in the mountains

pie

apple

candy

Meets

It’s time to play at Stokesdale Elementary!

courtesy of Stokesdale PTO

equipment arrives! The clouds parted and the sun shone down on the Stokesdale Elementary playground on Monday, Oct. 3, as a new K-2 playset was installed. The installation of the equipment this week brought closure to a project that has spanned two years of fundraising and planning, and two PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) boards. PTO President Sarah Turner

the PTO is appreciative of all the individuals, businesses and community members who helped make the equipment purchase possible

their donations.

GCS superintendent launches ‘Better Together’

A series of community conversations to inform GCS’ new strategic direction

GUILFORD COUNTY – In 1991, voters supported a referendum to bring together High Point, Greensboro and Guilford County school districts and create the Guilford County Schools district.

“Three decades later, GCS is on the verge of a new chapter, one full of opportunity and promise for the future of our children and grandchildren,” GCS recently stated in a press release. “However, we recognize that the context in which each school operates has changed – technological advances, globalization, and a pandemic have all contributed to these rapid changes. To be a thriving school district and community in the 21st Century will require us to look back at where we have been, where we are today, and where we see ourselves going.

To address the varied needs within the GCS district, Superintendent Dr. Whitney Oakley is launching “Better Together,” a series of community conversations aimed at determining a strategic direction for moving forward.

“I believe in the power of public education to bring people together to change the world,” Dr. Oakley said. “We will do it for our students, for our families, and for our community – and we will do it together.”

Over the next three months, Dr. Oakley will meet with students, parents, educators, and community leaders.

The first two events open to families will be: Thursday, Oct. 13, 5:30 p.m. at Andrews High School, 1920 McGuinn Dr., High Point Thursday, Nov. 10, 5:30 p.m. at Page High School, 201 Alma Pinnix Dr., Greensboro Families who wish to attend may RSVP at www.gcsnc.com/ bettertogether

GCS plans to document and share the feedback it receives from people across Guilford County. Citizens can also share their feedback at www.gcsnc.com/bettertogether.

Youth

Young crowned homecoming queen, Turner homecoming king at NWHS

Photo by Lauren Benamati, NWHS yearbook sta Northwest Guilford High School senior Madison Young was crowned homecoming queen and senior Walter Turner was crowned homecoming king during halftime at last week’s game against Page High School. Other members of this year’s homecoming court included: freshmen Nic Turner and Mia Peña; sophomores Bethel Choi and Ayva Warguez, and Thomas Vernon and Magnolia Hamilton; juniors Ty Sugg and Ella Best, Clayton Mungas and Addison Bryant, and Dash Richards and Maddy Dyer; and seniors Luke Kennedy and Jayla Frederick, Sheldon Ulmer and Amelia Axelsson, and Ben Willer and Tate Dixon.

FUN. FIND

GRINS

Trusted Brands Quality Service

 Michelle Bardsley for stepping up to represent all residents in North Carolina’s 57th House district. We appreciate how you have reached out to meet so many!

 Northwest Vikings girls’ volleyball team who beat undefeated Grimsley. Our girls knocked them back so hard, the Grimsley head coach “forgot” to shake hands with the team after the match. Keep it up, Vikings!

 Duke Energy employees and contractors, tree crews, and first responders who helped clear roads, repair downed power lines and assisted those with emergencies during last week’s storm.

7640 Crossing Ridge Drive, Belews Creek

Popular Stoney Point neighborhood! Spectacular homesite to build the home of your dreams with the potential for fabulous seasonal water views & easy lake accessibility! No more storage waiting list or having to tow your boat to the lake! Homesite offers a private boat slip at the community boat dock or 3 local marinas just minutes away! Secluded neighborhood conveniently located to Kernersville, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Walnut Cove.

outside

 Summerfield Fire Department for carrying on with the Stop, Drop and Roll 5K fundraiser last Saturday. This is such a great and well-organized family and community event (our compliments to the chili chefs, also)!

 Adults who share videos of our children fighting at school on social media. You’re not providing a good example for responsible social media use. You’re only glorifying the bullies and humiliating their victims.



Guilford County Schools for their efforts to keep our children safe from the drizzle on Friday. Because of their forward thinking, my darling precious did not have to suffer the

danger of getting... slightly damp.



Ignorant leftists who wrongly assume they know what flags flying at a private home means. Freedomloving Americans fly all manner of flags for a multitude of reasons. Your liberal bias only shows that you’re triggered by liberty and free speech.



The person doing yard work during the rainstorm that came in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian on Sept. 30. Please talk to someone and get help.

How quick can you say it?

How short can you be?

If you can be brief, we’ll publish for FREE.

You, too, can share news of a joy or a mess,

In our Grins & Gripes section

– in 40 words or less.

Grins and Gripes are limited to no more than 40 words and run at the editor’s discretion. Send your Grins and Gripes to: grinsandgripes@nwobserver.com



Bad drivers. When the traffic lights are out, you are supposed to treat the intersection like a four-way stop. Please learn how to drive before you kill someone.



The employee of a local fast-food restaurant who was in the parking lot, dressed in uniform, and finishing a beer while walking into work. This speaks volumes as to the people being hired to work in our local restaurants.



People who leave valuables in their vehicles in plain view. Please, people, heed the advice of law enforcement and that of those who have been victims of break-ins, and put your valuables out of plain view



The person complaining about the flags. Mind your own business – there’s enough division in this country because of your president, but that will be fixed soon enough.



Local restaurant employees who are serving burnt food (black bacon is not edible to me) and are rude at the drivethrough windows. Not acceptable!



The guy running on Brookbank Road who expects cars to swerve into oncoming traffic so he has room to run on pavement. Sharing the road works both ways – don’t impede traffic flow. Please run in the grass when cars are passing you.



Speeders. Daddy always told me

I had a “lead foot,” and I do, but zooming around me at 60 mph in a no-passing zone because I’m going a mere 10 mph over the speed limit of 35 mph? Really?

HELP?

SALES &

 SAVE THE DATE

3rd Annual TOUCH-A-TRUCK. A family event! Come see us on Saturday, Oct. 8, from 9am-2pm, at the Piedmont Triad Farmer's Market, 2914 Sandy Ridge Rd., Colfax. Cost: $5/pp or $20/family. Always a fun time! NAWIC-National Association of Women in Construction – Piedmont Chapter.

(336) 891-3876

EUROHAUSAUTO.PRO

CHOICE TIRE AND AUTOMOTIVE. Oil changes, inspections, alignments and general automotive repairs. 1080 US Hwy 66 S, Kernersville, NC. (336) 992-9002

KNIGHT IMPORT SPECIALTY SERVICE

European Auto Service & Repair. Specializing in factory-scheduled maintenance and repairs. BMW, Audi, Volvo, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Mini, and Porsche. 32 years experience. 4559 US Hwy. 220, Summerfield (across from Food Lion). (336) 337-0669

SAM'S AUTO BODY SHOP. Any type of body work. 45 years exp. (336) 965-7955

 EMPLOYMENT

STAFF POSITIONS available in childcare center. Please call (336) 643-5930.

SUMMERFIELD VETERINARY HOSPITAL is seeking a full-time kennel assistant. Weekends and holidays are a must. Drug and background check required. Please apply in person, 4318 US Hwy. 220N, Summerfield, or email resume to Lydia@summerfieldvet.com. (336) 643-6326.

ARTSTOCKTOUR.COM Open Studio. Saturday, Oct. 8, 10am-5pm, and Sunday, Oct. 9, 1-5pm. Studio House – Summerfield, 4110 Oak Ridge Road, Summerfield. Artist Crystal Eadie Miller.

 ESTATE SALE

ESTATE SALE. Friday, Oct. 7, 1-7pm, and Sat., Oct. 8, 7am-2pm. 8244 E. Harrell Rd., Oak Ridge. Vintage Princess House crystal, vintage Tupperware, and more. There will also be a multi-family sale with vintage antiques and holiday items. It will be held inside, so rain or shine.

 YARD SALES

HUGE MOVING SALE. Come check us out on Saturday, October 8, 7am-1pm. 6309 Matheson Court, Summerfield. Everything must go, furniture to household items.

YARD SALE. Saturday, Oct. 8, 8am-5pm. 5401 Edgerunner, Oak Ridge. Furniture, linens, dishes, children's clothes, games, and holiday items.

ANGELS GLEN COMMUNITY YARD SALE!

Sat., Oct. 8, 8am-12pm. Angels Glen Dr., Stokesdale.

YARD SALE. Saturday, Oct. 8, 8am-1pm. 2501 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge. Misc. items including tools: hand, garden, and electric.

HOME SERVICES

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

A-ACTION AIR. Heating check-up, $79.95. (336) 268-6768 or (336) 382-3750

CLEANING

THE CLEANING TECHNICIAN LLC. Back in business. Let me provide my cleaning services and help your house sparkle this fall! I do detailed cleaning. Licensed, bonded, insured and vaccinated. Please call Lisa, (336) 207-0770

ANNASARAH'S CLEANING. Excellent references. Trustworthy. Family owned business. Free estimates. (336) 543-3941.

MAID-2-SHINE. Excellent service, 15 years experience. Free estimates, excellent references. (336) 338-0223

PAOLA CLEANING SERVICE. Residential & commercial. Insured. (336) 669-5210

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

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

DECORATING

BLISSFUL ART & FRAMING. SHOP LOCAL! Framing, gifts, graphic design. 4533 Hwy. 220 N., Summerfi eld. (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

ELECTRICAL

THE DATE

OAK RIDGE FIREFIGHTERS' BBQ. Sat., October 8, 9am-12pm or until sold out. Station 15, 8325 Linville Rd., Oak Ridge. Take-out only. Drive-thru service. Use rear entrance off Scoggins Rd. Cash or check only. BBQ, $9 per lb., our "secret" sauce, $3 per container. Sorry, NO pre-orders.

MOVING SALE. Saturday, Oct. 8, and Sun., Oct. 9, 8am-12pm. 6807 Palomino Ridge Ct., Summerfield. Furniture, children's and adult clothes, baby clothes, household and kitchen, treadmill, DVDs, CDs, books and more.

MULTI-FAMILY YARD / ESTATE SALE. Rescheduled for Saturday, Oct. 15, 8am-12pm. Spring Creek Rd., off Witty Rd., Summerfield.

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

Do you have ELECTRICAL NEEDS? It's portable generator season. Please call Coble Electric LLC at (336) 209-1486

„ HOME SERVICES

CKH ELECTRIC, LLC. Give us a call for your next residential, commercial, or industri al project. Free estimates. Licensed, insured, and BBB accredited. (336) 414-4899

FLOORING / TILE

MONTERO'S HARDWOOD FLOORING

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

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

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.

APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance

A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707

LOW-COST GARAGE DOORS. Repair and sales. 35 years exp. (336) 207-1003

GARY’S HANDYMAN HOME SERVICES

“Providing value for the home-ownership ex perience.” Gary Gellert, serving NC’s Pied mont Triad area. Garygellert@gmail.com, (336) 423-8223

OLD SCHOOL HOME REPAIR

See display ad on page 30.

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

CLOCK SERVICE. Free house calls for sick clocks. 8103 Windspray Dr., Summerfield. (336) 643-9931

GRADING / HAULING

ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING

Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt, available. Zane Anthony, (336) 362-4035

BRAD'S BOBCAT & HAULING SVCS.

LLC. Debris removal, grading, gravel/dirt, driveways, concrete work. (336) 362-3647

The Northwest Observer

Keeping you connected since 1996!

HOME SERVICES

CLEAN-UP & HAULING. Lots, yards, natu ral areas, houses and barns. Most any type of debris removal. Call Steve, (336) 643-1119

DTW GRADING & HAULING, INC. Offer ing 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 clear ing, drainage solutions and snow removal. Daniel Wilson, (336) 339-0212

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

E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Drive ways, fill dirt, demolition, lot clearing, exca vating, bobcat work, etc. (336) 451-1282.

H&L GRADING, LLC. No job too tough or too small. Call us first! We are a full service grading company that specializes in resi dential 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. Call Bobby Lipstreu, (336) 543-7867

GUTTERS / SIDING / WINDOWS

S&M SEAMLESS GUTTERS. Install new gutters. Repair and clean old gutters. Free estimates. Fully insured. (336) 587-8223 or (336) 709-5944.

HOME SERVICES

GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE

Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree prun ing, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490

HILL LAWNCARE & OUTDOOR SERVICES Free est. Call (336) 669-5448

WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC.

Lawn maint., landscaping. Irrigation/land scape contractor. Hardscaping & landscape lighting. 26 years exp. (336) 399-7764

AQUA SYSTEMS IRRIGATION. Quality irri gation systems. NC licensed contractor. We service all systems. Free est. (336) 644-1174

AUGUSTA GREEN LANDSCAPES. Lawn/landscape maintenance and design, aeration, seeding, fertilizing, pine needles, mulch, leaf removal & more! Free esti mates. (336) 708-6150

ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE

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

DILLON TREE SERVICE. Certified arborist.

Locally owned; in business 25 yrs. Serving the Triad area. Specializing in large/hazard ous tree removal and emergency removals. Free estimates. www.dillontreeservice.com. Call (336) 996-6156

DSL DRAIN SYSTEMS & LANDSCAPING (336) 362-4354.

your classified ad online at www.nwobserver.com

NC FORESTRY MULCHING & LANDWORKS. Top rated on Google! Let us help you take back your land! (336) 362-6181 ncforestrymulching.com.

DeLima

Lawn Care

LAWNCARE / LANDSCAPING

COLFAX LAWNCARE. Core aeration & seeding. Fertilizing, mowing, trimming, pine needles. Complete lawn care maintenance. Res./comm. Fully insured. Serving the Triad for 33 years. (336) 362-5860

„ HOME SERVICES

STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. 40+ years experience. Any type of tree, shrub bery and landscaping work. Oak Ridge. (336) 643-1119.

INTEGRITY TREE SERVICE, LLC Tree re moval, risk assessment, tree pruning, dead wood removal. Competitive pricing. Fully insured. Owner-operated. Call for free esti mate, (336) 210-8310.

CM STUMP GRINDING, LLC. Family owned and operated. Commercial/residen tial. Free quotes! (336) 317-4600

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

ORTIZ LANDSCAPING, complete lawn care. Trimming, cleaning, planting & mulch, gutter cleaning, patios & pavers, waterfalls, retaining walls, sidewalks, stonework. Res idential and commercial. (336) 280-8981

STRAIGHT EDGE LAWN CARE. Free esti mates. Please call (336) 306-0274

SOUTHERN CUTZ LAWN CARE. Offering complete lawn maintenance services, land scaping, bush hogging, privacy fence instal lation/repair/staining, and stump grinding. Nathan Adkins, (336) 430-6086.

Join 15,000+ neighors facebook.com/northwestobserver

MASONRY

336.669.5210

FREE ESTIMATES

CONCRETE COATINGS

Flake Epoxy Systems

Garage Floor and Concrete Resurfacing

Decorative Concrete Overlays

Stamped Concrete Rejuvenation

Eric Sauls, Owner ● (336) 970-3543

Call for your free estimate

COLONIAL MASONRY. 40 yrs. exp. Spe cializing 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.

SERVICES

NEW PHASE CONCRETE. Here for all your decorative concrete needs. Specializing in decorative stamp, stained, epoxy and all other concrete poured finishes as well. Also offering refurbishment of existing stamped concrete. Make your existing stamped look like new again! (336) 399-1474 or (336) 595-4654

SOUTHERN STYLE Concrete, LLC & Outdoor Living can design any concrete project you need, from stamped patios, sidewalks, driveways, basketball courts and fire pits. Our workers are experienced craftsmen who can customize any project to exceed your expectations. Call us at (336) 399-6619

MISC. HOME SERVICES/PRODUCTS

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

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

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

PAINTING & DRYWALL

HOME SERVICES

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

BEK Paint Co.

Residential & Commercial

David & Judy Long, owners (336) 931-0600

BEKPaintCompany.com

HOME SERVICES

PRESSURE WASHING

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

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

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION, LLC N.C. general contractor with 30 years experience. Specializing in new homes, room additions, kitchens & baths, garages, decks, vinyl siding and windows, painting, tile, laminate and vinyl plank, and remodeling of all kinds. Quality for the right price. Free est. Please call (336) 362-7469

AMERICAN BUILDER CONSTRUCTION

PLUMBING

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

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

SIGNATURE PLUMBING. Local, experienced, clean, and work is guaranteed. Please call (336) 279-6196

POOLS

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

COX POOL SERVICE.

routine maintenance, weekly service.

Repairs & remodeling, kitchens/baths, additions, decks, attics, basements. Licensed & insured. Short wait list. NC general contractors. (336) 225-7478

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION

Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, dock work, siding, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Sr. disc., 41 yrs. exp. (336) 362-6343

Offer a home service?

Place your ad online today:

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

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.

PAINTING, DECKS AND MORE. Call Premier Construction for free estimates. (336) 430-9507

us

BELEW’S

 MISC. WANTED

$$$ – WILL PAY CASH for your junk / wrecked vehicle. For quote, call (336) 552-0328

Wanted: GOLF CART that needs repair. Will pay cash. (336) 882-1403

FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, tillers, generators, power washers, 4-wheelers, mini bikes, golf carts, mopeds, other gas-powered items, etc. (336) 689-4167

 REAL ESTATE

MISC. SERVICES

PORTABLE

SERVICE

TRAILER

HOME FOR RENT

2 BR, 1 BA DUPLEX in Stokesdale. $1,200/ month. For info call (336) 549-0501

Selling? Renting? Place your ad online:

HOME FOR SALE

 MISC. FOR SALE

FOR SALE. Gently used three-cushion leather sofa. Cushions trimmed in braided leather. Great for family room. Retail $2,600, asking $800. (336) 404-0107

PULP, pudding, and more. Call (336) 816-3441

2016 FREEDOM EXPRESS LIMITED RV Very good condition. Two slideouts. Sleeps 8. Includes 2 automatic canopies and washer/dryer. $27,995. Call (336) 382-2755

LAKEFRONT on Hillsdale Lake. Jet-ski, boat, fish and swim from your backyard.

BR, 2 BA, 2 acres with great view. 7102 Alcove Rd., Summerfield. $649,900. (336) 339-2467

index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

ACCOUNTING

Carlotta Lytton, CPA

Kimberly Thacker Accounting 32

Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC 37

AUTOMOTIVE SALES / SERVICE

Beamer Tire & Auto

EuroHaus

Piedmont Truck Tires & Automotive

Prestige Car Wash

Max

41

28, 43

Carlos & Son Painting.......................... 45

Carpets by Direct 16

CharCo Concrete Coatings 44

CSM Flooring 12

Delima Lawn Care 44

Madison Flooring................................. 42

New Garden Landscaping & Nursery .. 41

2

24

23

BANK / LENDING / INVESTMENTS

First Citizens Bank 21

BUILDING / REMODELING

Old School Home Repair 30

Superior Outdoor Spaces 3

TM Construction Services 46

CANDIDATES

Alan Branson – Cty. Commissioner 33

Demetria Carter – Board of Education 33

Phil Byrd – Guilford County Sheriff 29

CHILDREN’S SERVICES Guardian Ad Litem

DANCE / MUSIC / DRAMA Destination Arts 24

DENTAL SERVICES

DeVaney Dentistry 39

Magnolia Shores Family Dental 42 Summerfield Family Dentistry 18 EVENTS

Autumn Harvest Jubilee 15 Haw River St. Park – Park in the Dark 6 Honor Run 5K 10

McLaurin Farms Pumpkin Patch Days 14 Oak Ridge Lions Club Golf Tourney 30 Parade of Homes 4 Stokesdale Farmers’ Day 5 Summerfield Movie in the Park 6 Summerfield Touch-A-Truck 32 The Great Pumpkin Event 31

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Edward Jones 12

GROCERIES / SUPPLIES Southern Foods

HAIR CARE

35

Great Clips 25

HEALTH & FITNESS

SNAP Fitness

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Southern Style Concrete & Landscaping 45

Stokesdale Heating & Air 11

Stokesdale Storage 46

Village Roofs Inc. 45

Wilson Seamless Gutters

LEGAL SERVICES

44

Barbour & Williams Law 11

MEDICAL / HEARING / PT

Aetna Health Insurance Insert

Aim Hearing & Audiology 3

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist 8

Atrium Health WFB, Summerfield........ 41

Health Team Advantage

7

LeBauer HealthCare 27

Murphy Wainer Orthopedics 34

NorthStar Medical Group 22

Northwest Pediatrics 42

Novant Health

Novant – Forsyth Pediatrics

19

24

Oak Ridge Physical Therapy 9, 25

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS, LESSONS

Moore Music Company

ORTHODONTIC CARE

Olmsted Orthodontics

Reynolds Orthodontics

PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS

36

25

40

5 Star Roofing 45

BEK Paint Company 45

Belews Creek Construction 46

Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital 15 Northwest Animal Hospital

REAL ESTATE

15

A New Dawn Realty 46

DeDe Cunningham, Keller Williams

Nicole Gillespie, RE/MAX

37

40

Ramilya Siegel, Keller Williams 18

RESTAURANTS

Bistro 150

24

Rio Grande Kitchen & Cantina 25

RETAIL / CLOTHING

Threads of Serenity

Jennifer Ault

SCIENCE CTR. / ZOOLOGICAL PARK

Greensboro Science Center

YOUTH SPORTS / CAMPS

Oak Ridge Youth Association

Greensboro YMCA

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Town of Summerfield

CRIME/INCIDENTS

...continued from p. 34

black Kate Spade purse which contained her wallet with credit/debit cards and $200 cash, her checkbook and her address book. The suspect later attempted to make a $1,016.48 purchase with one of her credit cards. The cost of repairing damage to the resident’s vehicle had not been estimated at the time of reporting.

Sept. 27 | An employee of Hwy 220 Tobacco & Vape on U.S. 220 in Summerfield reported that at 2:07 a.m. an unknown hooded suspect broke in through a window on the front door and stole 66 cartons of Marlboro cigarettes, 15 cartons of Camel cigarettes, 105 cartons of Newport cigarettes, a register bottom containing $390 cash

and 38 multicolored T-shirts, with a total retail value of $13,550.62. The suspect left with a getaway driver. The cost of repairing damage to the front door of the business had not been estimated at the time of reporting.

Oct. 1 | An employee of Oak Ridge Auto Sales on Edgefield Court in northwest Greensboro reported that between Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 an unknown suspect stole five catalytic convertors from vehicles parked on the sales lot.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT

Sept. 28 | Officers responded to a traffic accident in the 500 block of N. Bunker Hill Road in Colfax in which $1,000 worth of yard equipment was destroyed.

VANDALISM

Sept. 27 | A citizen at Citgo in Stokesdale reported a known suspect vandalized her vehicle.

4-WAY STOPS, ETC. ...continued from p. 42

see where trouble spots are. Be safe everyone!”

Posted Saturday, Oct. 1, on Nextdoor.com

Subject: power outages

(We thought this post by North Carolina Dept. of Transportation was not only helpful for the most recent storm, but relevant for future incidents of severe weather)

 Hey neighbors! We hope you made it through Ian as unscathed as possible. We know that wind and rain left a good bit of damage, including downed trees and power lines. Just a few notes to help keep you updated and everyone safe:

NCDOT is working with utility crews to help clean up as much of the debris as possible in roadways. When it comes to trees on power lines, NCDOT cannot proceed until we have full clearance from the utility company. We ask that you please use patience in these scenarios.

Statewide, crews are working on or near roadways. Please slow down, use extra caution and give them space to work. We know you want to get home

to your families at the end of the day and so do our workers.

We will be collecting vegetation debris from the road and right of ways on state-maintained roads. You can check on whether your road is state maintained by going to https://apps.ncdot.gov/SRLookup.

For town and city-maintained roads, residents will need to check with their town or city manager’s office for the cleanup plan in their area.

Regarding vegetation and other debris in private yards, that is the responsibility of the residents, who should check their homeowners’ insurance policy, as debris cleanup is often covered by insurance.

We currently have over 100 roads closed statewide, but that number is changing frequently. If you are traveling today, please check DriveNC.gov for real-time road conditions including closures, crashes, construction and more. We hope you travel safely today and every day.

Remember to never drive around barricades – Turn Around. Don’t Drown

Volunteer Opportunities

Summerfield citizen volunteers help govern our community and the town is seeking dedicated residents for multiple board/committee openings (either regular members or alternates):

~ BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

PLANNING BOARD

FINANCE COMMITTEE

FOUNDERS’ DAY COMMITTEE

HISTORICAL COMMITTEE

TRAILS & OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE

To inquire or apply, visit www.summerfieldnc.gov or call 336-643-8655 and speak with Town Clerk Sarah Tibbetts.

northwest Guilford County’s

matters

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

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

The Branham family cruised on the Mariner of the Seas over the summer. And everywhere the cruise took them – the Royal Promenade, CocoCay, Bahamas and Labdee, Haiti – the Northwest Observer went with them, too!

The Marshall family of Oak Ridge visited Yellowstone Bear World, a drive-through wildlife park, in Rexburg, Idaho, this past summer. When they weren’t busy reading the Northwest Observer, the Marshalls were likely seeing Rocky Mountain elk, bison, white-tail deer, mule deer, Rocky Mountain goats, moose, American black bears and grizzly bears out their car window!

Postal Patron

Postal Patron

PRSRT STD

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22 ECRWSS

Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22 ECRWSS

Stokesdale residents John and Karen Loucks know you are never too young to bea Northwest Observer fan. The Loucks’ son, Peter, and grandson, Oliver, of Brooklyn,New York, enjoy reading the local news while visiting and taking a stroll around the neighborhood inthe golf cart.

(L to R) Rosa Alonso-McKenzie of Oak Ridge, Jennifer Mun of Summerfield and Laura Craven of Colfax used their time wisely while waiting on a musical performance to begin at Walnut Creek Amphitheatre in Raleigh last August – they studied up on lots of interesting facts in the annual Northwest FINDER and have since been impressing all their friends with their extensive knowledge of local “stuff.”