Northwest Observer / Dec. 15, 2022 - Jan. 4, 2023

Searching for water

Summerfield’s efforts to find an outside supply of water from a neighboring municipality are proving difficult, according to the town manager

by CHRIS BURRITT

SUMMERFIELD – So far, the town of Summerfield is running dry in its pursuit of a potential source of water for a municipal system to fight fires and, eventually, supply homeowners.

Town Manager Scott Whitaker told the Town Council during its meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 13, that his recent discussions with potential suppliers Greensboro, Rockingham County and Reidsville have been less than promising.

“It’s challenging,” Whitaker told council members, who instructed the manager to keep looking for a possible supplier. ey instructed him to contact Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities and Madison, a town in Rockingham County.

Even as the council has studied possibly creating a water system, it hasn’t decided whether to bring water to Summerfield nor has it figured out how it would pay for lines, an elevated tank and other infrastructure. Its initial focus on providing water to improve the town’s firefighting capabilities has expanded to running lines capable of supplying water for residential and commercial use.

The council advanced its exploration of water lines in February when it contracted with Freese and Nichols, the town’s engineering firm, to study potential connections to Greensboro and Reidsville.

In June, a water feasibility study by Freese and Nichols estimated that extending water lines to Summerfield from Greensboro or Reidsville would range from $24 million to $27 million. The study laid out three possible routes for lines.

The one running nearly 10 miles from Reidsville in Rockingham County would cost $25.7 million, while two from Greensboro –each about 8.2 miles long – would cost $24 million and $27 million.

Whitaker cast doubts on those prospects during the Dec. 13 meeting.

“Greensboro is not overly interested in

...continued on p. 5

Treasured Christmas memories, traditions

compiled by ANNETTE JOYCE

Photo courtesy of Laura Foy

In 2018, Santa (a retired member of the Sheriff’s Association) made a special visit to the Summerfield home of Henry Foy, who is immunocompromised due to a genetic disorder.

We recently asked some of our readers about their favorite Christmas memories and traditions, and as you’ll read, unexpected acts of thoughtfulness, receiving inexpensive gifts given with “an abundance of love,” reading the ‘real’ story of Christmas and sharing special time with family and friends were among the things they told us they treasured the most.

Gordon

Brown remembrance recalls spirit of service 6

Oak Ridge Dec. 1 Town Council meeting 8

S’field Dec. 13 Town Council meeting 10

Stokesdale Dec. 8 Town Council meeting

Bonnie Ramba’s favorite Christmas goes back to 1978, when she and her husband, Bob, were just starting out.

“Looking back, Bob and I actually didn’t have a lot, but we felt rich,” the Stokesdale

resident said. “Bob had finished college that year, and we now had an additional income. He read water meters for the City of Cleveland, and I was a nursing assistant at a

p. 34

Gordon Hardware building under contract as possible brew pub

Providing septic services and parking emerge as hurdles for the prospective buyer

by CHRIS BURRITT

SUMMERFIELD – The historic Gordon Hardware building has gone under contract to a bidder who wants to turn the two-story structure into “a brew pub” with food sales and room for gatherings, according to Town Manager Scott Whitaker.

Oak Ridge seeking ‘best possible’ rate in park financing

by Patti Stokes/NWO

After being placed on the market this summer, the historic Gordon Hardware building at the intersection of N.C. 150 and Summerfield Road in Summerfield went under contract in September for the asking price of $125,000. The buyer, who hopes to convert the building into a brew pub, has until next month to present a plan for providing septic service to the building and adequate parking to meet the town’s permitting and occupancy requirements.

While declining to identify the bidder, Preservation North Carolina regional director Cathleen Turner said a local individual put the circa 1870s building at 7722 Summerfield Road under contract in mid-September. The bidder is evaluating the possible purchase during 120 days of due diligence, she said in an email last week.

During due diligence, the bidder must present a plan for providing septic services to the building, as well as enough parking to meet the town’s permitting and occupancy requirements, Whitaker said in an email last week. Just shy of a third of an acre, the building site lacks enough space for parking

by CHRIS BURRITT

OAK RIDGE – Oak Ridge Town Council has instructed finance officer Sam Anders to pursue “the best possible fixed interest rate” in negotiations to borrow as much as $3 million to finance development of Heritage Farm Park.

A resolution unanimously approved by the council during its Dec. 1 meeting also instructed town staff to seek a 15-year loan with no prepayment penalty. Negotiating attractive best borrowing terms for Oak Ridge’s biggest capital project will help mute rising interest rates and building costs over the past year.

“Interest rates have risen dramatically, as have construction costs, making it necessary for us to

on p. 42 ...continued on p. 22

Amid rising interest rates, Town Council sets parameters for borrowing as much as $3 million for development of Heritage Farm Park

Photo

courtesy of

pictured with

Bill Bruce, signed an agreement for Honeycutt Reserve subdivision’s water system to be turned over to the town this past Friday, Dec. 9. Residents in this neighborhood, which is under development on Bunch Road, will be the first customers of the town’s water system. The municipal system will initially serve new subdivisions with at least 30 lots and, as proposed, will eventually supply water to homeowners and businesses, as an alternative to private and community wells. Property owners with existing wells won’t be required to tap into the new system, according to town officials.

Photo

Town of Oak Ridge Oak Ridge Mayor Ann Schneider,

Town Manager

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

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In light of Shorty Wilson’s passing away this past August, I’ve been wondering if there were any plans for his business property in Summerfield. Then, last week I drove by and saw a “For Sale” sign in the parking lot.

Can you tell us anything about the sale and possible

uses for the Wilson’s grocery property?

Yes, we’ve been asked a couple of times about this in recent months and held off answering the question because the family was not ready to disclose their plans to sell the property, or what might

become of it. See the article on p. 18 of this issue for details about the asking price and potential uses for the property.

In light of the tragedy resulting from a 14-year-old girl being hit by a vehicle while walking along Haw River Road on Halloween night – and another tragedy involving an 11-year-old boy being hit by a car on Halloween in this same vicinity three years ago – it’s been suggested the town of Oak Ridge build more sidewalks to make its rural roads safer for pedestrians.

Can you tell me about the cost and timeline for building sidewalks, and if Oak Ridge has any plans for future sidewalks?

In response to this question and feedback the town has received since the most recent tragedy the reader refers to, Oak Ridge Mayor Ann Schneider told us she researched the cost and confirmed that constructing a single mile of sidewalk costs around $500,000, plus the significant time and cost of obtaining easements from property owners along the way.

“For example, constructing the ½-mile sidepath along Pepper and Haw River Roads to connect segments of the MST took two years to construct, mostly due to the complexity and time needed to obtain the necessary easements,” Schneider wrote in an email to the Northwest Observer.

Accepting New Patients

“Oak Ridge has nearly 3 miles of sidewalks along key roads, plus a few more miles of sidewalks in residential neighborhoods,” she continued. “Over the next two years, we’ll complete another 1+ mile of sidewalks on N.C. 150 and 68 as part of email your questions to: questions @nwobserver.com

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

our intersection upgrades. In this case, NCDOT will contribute to the cost of the sidewalks, but I don’t know of any other case where they have chipped in (our share of the intersection improvements, including the proposed sidewalks, is estimated at $400,000.)

Another mile or so of sidewalks in the town core (constructing the next few segments of sidewalks on N.C. 150 and 68) is slated as a next step and

SEEKING WATER

...continued from p. 1

supplying water just to Summerfield,” Whitaker said. In an interview after the meeting, he explained that Summerfield’s demand for water may not justify expenses that would be incurred by Greensboro to install infrastructure.

Rockingham County water officials “say they don’t have the capacity to supply Summerfield,” Whitaker said.

The county’s water tank near the old Bethany Elementary School is a potential source, but its 500,000gallon capacity is smaller than the 750,000-gallon tank that Freese and Nichols proposed for Summerfield, according to Whitaker.

Providing additional water to Summerfield would possibly require construction of another tank, an investment Rockingham County may be unwilling to make, the manager said.

Securing water from Reidsville provides the best option for Summerfield, Whitaker said. However, the likely route from Rockingham County to N.C. 150, east of Summerfield, would be “quite a long haul if you’re putting lines in the ground,” he said.

More sidewalks are planned in Oak Ridge, at a cost of about $500,000 per mile plus the time and cost of obtaining easements.

is included in our 5-year Capital Improvement Plan. “Looking further into the future, our Council plans to continue to allocate funding for sidewalks to enhance connectivity and pedestrian safety in accordance with our Pedestrian Plan (adopted in 2013) as well as the goals of our Strategic Plan,” Schneider wrote. “And speaking of the Pedestrian Plan, I believe we’re the only small town to have a Pedestrian Plan, developed by a citizen-led community. That plan continues to guide efforts to expand sidewalks as well as trails.”

“Reidsville has, initially, the willingness to sell Summerfield water and the capacity to sell us water, with the right infrastructure set up,” Whitaker said. “The challenge with them is their proposed connection to Summerfield is not a very short, direct route.”

In discussions with Madison water officials, Whitaker said he’ll explore whether the town’s tank at U.S. 220 and N.C. 704 would be a possible source for Summerfield.

If Summerfield were to buy water from Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities, a possible route would follow N.C. 68 from Stokesdale, which already buys water from the supplier.

Secondly, Summerfield could potentially run lines from Oak Ridge, which is exploring the possibility of buying water from Winston-Salem/ Forsyth County Utilities as part of longterm planning for its municipal water system. If Oak Ridge were to run lines along N.C. 150 from Forsyth County, Summerfield could possibly run lines from Oak Ridge, according to Walker.

Talking to Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities “could make some sense if you could coordinate with Oak Ridge,” he said.

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File photos

Born in Summerfield, Carolyn Brown spent most of her 88 years living in Oak Ridge, where she served as the elementary school’s secretary for 25 years, was a charter member of Oak Ridge Lions Club and served on various committees at her church. Clockwise from top left: for many years Brown delighted area children by dressing up as “Mrs. Claus” at local functions, alongside her late husband, Tom Brown – aka Santa Claus – and later, her longtime friend and neighbor, Jim King. She also dressed up as a “nice witch” each year for the Great Pumpkin Event in Oak Ridge. Brown good-naturedly donned a tiara this past September and greeted golfers who participated in Oak Ridge Lions Club’s annual Tom Brown Memorial golf tournament, named in honor of her husband.

by CHRIS BURRITT

OAK RIDGE – The unexpected death of Carolyn Brown last month brought an outpouring of fond memories and funny stories during Oak Ridge Town Council’s recent meeting.

For decades, Brown’s friendships and contributions spanned her position of school secretary at Oak Ridge Elementary for 25 years, her charter membership in Oak Ridge Lions Club and her participation in several ministries of Oak Ridge United Methodist Church.

Carolyn was “our heart and soul,” said Frank Kelleher, president of the Lions Club, who joined several others during the council’s Dec. 1 meeting in recalling Brown, who died Nov. 15 at age 88.

Kelleher said he and many others were recruited by Carolyn to join the Lions Club. He said he was inspired to perform community service by her and her late husband, Tom, Oak Ridge’s first elected mayor.

“We are going to dearly miss her, but her spirit carries on,” Kelleher said.

Danny Yanusz, immediate past president of the Lions Club, said he remembers Brown’s smile and her willingness to take “a good joke…and dish it out as well as she could take it.”

“She always made me feel special,” said Annette Joyce, who got to know Brown through her long friendship with Sandra Smith, Brown’s daughter and Oak Ridge’s assistant town manager and clerk.

“And that was the knack she had with

everybody else,” Joyce said. “She made everybody feel special. She puts a smile on my face every time I think about her.”

Joyce recalled how Brown once got stuck on the roof of her house as she was blowing off leaves. Instead of waiting to be rescued, she shimmied down the downspout.

“Even at 88 years old, she was filled with so much life,” Joyce recalled.

A year and a half ago, Kerstin and

Friends recall longtime Oak Ridge resident for her volunteerism, sense of humor and generosity. She died last month at age 88. ... continued on p. 30

OAK RIDGE town council

Dec. 1 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

as reported by CHRIS BURRITT

OAK RIDGE – Mayor Ann Schneider called the monthly meeting to order, with Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman and council members George McClellan, Martha Pittman and Spencer Sullivan present.

Jim Smith, interim principal at Oak Ridge Elementary School, offered the invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by three members of the school’s student council: Gealayanee Wingfield, Griffin Locke and Rhidita Fuad.

PUBLIC SAFETY

Sheriff’s Office. Cpl. J. Swaringen reported the sheriff’s District 1 office had 173 calls for service in Oak Ridge in November, including an attempted breakin at CVS Pharmacy at N.C. 68 and 150; the incident is related to a break-in at

Crossroads Pharmacy on N.C. 68 and Haw River Road in Stokesdale, and an attempted break-in at Colfax Gun and Ammo, according to Swaringen.

Separately, he added that the CVS and Tractor Supply stores reported two shoplifting incidents.

There were also numerous vehicle theft-related incidents last month, Swaringen said. In the early morning of Nov. 19, the District 1 office responded to reports of several vehicle break-ins and the theft of two vehicles in the Haw River Road area.

Officers also responded to thefts from two vehicles at Oak Ridge Town Park. In the first incident, the suspects broke windows to steal items left in plain view; in the second incident, the

vehicle’s doors had been left unlocked, Swaringen said. He noted the incidents serve as a reminder to “leave your property hidden in your vehicles and make sure they’re locked at all times, especially with the holidays coming up.”

Oak Ridge Fire Dept. Lt. Hampton Staunton reported the department responded to 45 medical-related calls for service and five vehicle accidents last month. Firefighters obtained 535 hours of training.

Staunton urged homeowners to keep cut Christmas trees watered to help prevent house fires.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

Rezoning request

 5  0 to approve a request to rezone the town-owned 1.23-acre tract that includes the historic Redmon farmhouse at Linville Road and Lisa Drive in Town Park.

Rezoning the property from RS-30 (residential, with minimum lot sizes of 30,000 square feet) to PI (public and institutional) accommodates the town’s plans to convert the house into the Farmhouse Community Center.

With the rezoning, the tract is now zoned the same as Town Park, noted Sean Taylor, Oak Ridge’s planning director.

A public hearing was held prior to the council’s vote to invite citizen input, but no one spoke for or against the rezoning request.

Text amendment  5  0 to amend the town’s code of ordinances to create a new section related to regulating trees in town.

For Oak Ridge to maintain its standing as a Tree City USA, the Arbor Day Foundation has informed the town it needs to establish rules for regulating trees on municipally owned property, Taylor told the council.

At the foundation’s recommendation, the council also created a board to oversee implementation of an annual tree plan and establish a minimum standard of care and related enforcement. Later in the meeting, the council voted unanimously to appoint John Browning,

Austin Goldman, Roy Nydorf and Nancy Stoudemire to the Tree Board.

A public hearing was held to gain input on the proposed text amendment, but no citizens spoke for or against it.

RECOGNITION, PROCLAMATION, PRESENTATIONS

Carolyn Brown remembrance. Council members and several other people shared stories about Carolyn Brown, fondly referred to as “the Queen of Oak Ridge” for her decades of service to the town. She died Nov. 15 at age 88. (See related article on p. 6.)

DAR appreciation. Mayor Schneider read a proclamation expressing Oak Ridge’s appreciation to the Guilford Battle Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. During recent workdays to remove overgrowth and clean several graves in the Old Union Graveyard, chapter members uncovered six gravestones that had been covered by plant debris for more than 50 years.

“These stones have now been cleaned and reset in the locations where they were found,” the proclamation read.

Veterans Honor Green donation. Nick Jamieson, a Scout with Oak Ridge Troop 600, presented a check for $5,002.27 as a donation to the Veterans Honor Green. For his Eagle Scout project, he organized a 5K race and 1-mile family fun run/walk in Town Park Oct. 15, with proceeds earmarked for the veterans’ site.

Jamieson described the run as “a massive success” in terms of fundraising and recognition for the veterans’ site planned for Heritage Farm Park.

Patti Dmuchowski, chair of the Special Events Committee, which is leading the veterans’ project, praised Jamieson for organizing the run, securing sponsors and other projectrelated accomplishments.

Jamieson’s donation, coupled with the town’s plan to match contributions in the fourth quarter, pushes fundraising for the veterans’ site over $150,000, according to Dmuchowski.

The images captured by photographer Erin Kye show 28 species of trees such as white oak, black walnut and longleaf pine. The committee selected them as Oak Ridge’s Treasure Trees in a 2019 competition and produced the book with color photographs and descriptions of the winners.

“Treasure Trees of Oak Ridge” can be viewed on the town’s website, under the News tab on the homepage.

The trees are “part of our heritage, and they are living heritage,” Councilwoman Martha Pittman said.

MANAGER’S REPORT

said Sandra Smith, assistant town manager and clerk.

“We’ve never had a problem with any of these issues,” she said, “but we kind of want to head it off just in case something were to happen.”

NEW BUSINESS

 5  0 to authorize town staff to seek financing for development of Heritage Farm Park. Sam Anders, the town’s finance officer, is working with Truist and Piedmont Federal banks on borrowing for construction of two multipurpose fields, a playground and other improvements slated for the 62 acres on Linville Road behind Town Hall. (See related article on p. 2.)

COMMUNITY UPDATES

accept a check for $5,002.27 from Scout Nick

with Troop 600 at Oak Ridge Town Council’s Dec. 1 meeting. The donation represented proceeds from the Veterans Honor Run 5K and 1-mile fun run Jamieson organized and held in Town Park on Oct. 15, and were slated for the future Veterans Honor Green in Heritage Farm Park.

The campaign’s goal is $200,000.

Treasure Trees. The town’s Tree City USA Committee presented a book

of photographs showcasing 30 trees recognized for their height, historical significance and other attributes.

 5  0 to appoint Beth Walker to the Board of Adjustment.  5  0 to approve the 2023 schedule for town council and board meetings and holidays.  5  0 to approve a social media policy allowing town staff to hide or delete comments deemed vulgar, threatening, false and otherwise inappropriate.

The policy applies to Oak Ridge’s website, Facebook page and Nextdoor posts. Without the policy, town staff can’t remove inappropriate comments,

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Conservation Easement Committee. Chair Stephanie Farrell reported that two property owners are interested in placing easements on their historic structures.

The town’s “Conserving Oak Ridge through Easements” program seeks to educate and encourage owners of historic buildings and open space to use easements to preserve their property.

...continued on p. 42

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Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

Special Events Committee member Ben Walraven (left) and chair Patti Dmuchowski (right)

Jamieson

SUMMERFIELD town council

Dec. 13 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

as reported by CHRIS

BURRITT

SUMMERFIELD – Mayor Tim Sessoms called the monthly meeting in Summerfield Community Center to order, with Mayor Pro Tem Lynne Williams DeVaney and council members Jeff Davis, Janelle Robinson, Reece Walker and John Doggett present.

DeVaney offered the invocation, which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

CONSENT AGENDA

 4  1 to approve the consent agenda, which included the meeting agenda, approval of open session minutes of the Nov. 10 meeting and the town’s agreement for Seegars Fence Co. to erect a fence for the town’s dog park at a cost of $32,858. The lowest of three bidders, the Greensboro-based company will install 1,347 feet of black vinyl-coated chain link fence standing 5 feet tall, according to the project’s quote summary.

DeVaney voted against approving the consent agenda because of a

change to the meeting agenda. A few minutes earlier, Robinson had requested the council delay for a month consideration of the appointments of Linda Wendelken to the Board of Adjustment and Tara Peterson and Ron Collier as alternates on the Planning Board.

Earlier, DeVaney and Doggett interviewed the three candidates and were prepared to give a recommendation for each of them.

Later in the meeting, Don Wendelken, Linda’s husband, said he was puzzled by the delay in considering the nominations, especially since the town is struggling to recruit volunteers to serve on committees and boards.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Garbage pickup. Republic Services is raising its annual price for picking up garbage and recycling by 4.05%, effective Jan. 1. The quarterly rate for service will increase to $56.37, finance officer Dee Hall said.

The increase reflects a jump in the

WHAT they voted on, and HOW they voted:

Mayor Pro Tem Lynne Williams DeVaney and council members Jeff Davis, Janelle Robinson, Reece Walker and John Doggett voted on the following items during the council’s Dec. 13 meeting. Mayor Tim Sessoms was present, but in Summerfield the mayor votes only to break a tie.

 4  1: (DeVaney opposed) Approve the consent agenda

 5  0: Approve the rezoning of 3.75 of nearly 44 acres at 6317 U.S. 158 for the development of three residential building lots  5  0: Approve the rezoning of 2.8 acres on N.C. 150 to limit the commercial uses of the property  5  0: Amend the town’s unified development ordinance to eliminate what town staff described as unintended consequences related to the scenic corridor area overlay districts

merfield Town Council’s Dec. 13 meeting, after council and staff members shared words of appreciation for his 10 years of service to the Town of Summerfield.

consumer price index, as allowed by Republic’s contract with Summerfield. Parks and Recreation director. Council members and town staff applauded Parks and Recreation director Jeff Goard for 10 years of service with the town.

It was noted that for some families, participating in sports is their first –and sometimes only – interaction with Summerfield. He represents the town

well, council members and town staff said.

Goard proved to be “a lifesaver” in taking charge of Summerfield’s parks a decade ago, Town Manager Scott Whitaker said, adding that as responsibilities have been added to Goard’s job, he’s basically “on call constantly.”

As a member of a small, closeknit town staff, Goard “is the glue that binds us,” Hall said.

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

Parks & Recreation Director Jeff Goard stands with the plaque he received at Sum-

Summerfield resident and firefighter Grant Page (center) receives a plaque presented by Town Council member and fellow firefighter Reece Walker in appreciation for his 26 years of service to Summerfield. To Page’s left is his wife, Cameron.

“You’re one of those unsung heroes of the town,” Davis added. Retiring Summerfield firefighter. The council also recognized Grant Page,

retiring as a driver for the Summerfield Fire District after 26 years of service.

Page’s service reflects his willingness to embrace the requirements of the job “that get harder every year,” said Michael Page, his cousin and a Summerfield fireman. “We’re proud of him. That’s a lot of years of service.”

Page has “always had a heart for service,” said Darlene Page, his mother. She thanked the fire department and the community as a whole for supporting her son, and said, “Summerfield is Grant’s village.”

PUBLIC SAFETY

Summerfield Fire District. The district reported it responded to 143 incidents in November, including 83 EMSrelated calls, 29 fire-related calls and 31 other calls. Firefighters installed 25 child safety seats.

Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s District 1 office reported it responded to 270 calls for service in Summerfield

last month, resulting in 22 formal case reports. Incidents included the theft of more than $1,000 in meat products from Food Lion on U.S. 220 and theft of the catalytic converter from the town’s work truck parked at Town Hall.

Later in the meeting, Whitaker said town staff is exploring additional security measures at Town Hall.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

 Gail Dunham reiterated earlier criticism of town staff, suggesting they should be more responsive to her public records requests and should conduct more business in public.

In response, Sessoms said residents would have an opportunity to express their views during three public hearings later in the meeting. Whitaker said supporting documents for the meeting’s agenda are posted on the town’s website.

... continued on p. 40

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

STOKESDALE town council

Dec. 8 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

as reported by PATTI STOKES

Mayor Mike Crawford called the monthly meeting to order at 7 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the mayor offered the opening prayer.

The agenda was approved after council members agreed to continue a discussion on closing a portion of Angel Pardue, Adano and Athens roads until the January meeting.

Chuck Winfree, an attorney with the Law Offices of Adams & Winfree based in Greensboro, was introduced as the new town attorney. Council member Tim Jones, who had made the motion last month to hire Winfree, said Winfree has deep family ties to Summerfield, served four years as a Guilford County commissioner, and has broad legal experience.

 5  0 to continue discussion on approval of minutes from the Oct. 13, 2022 closed session meeting to the Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023 meeting.

 5  0 to approve minutes of the Feb. 10, 2022 meeting after making one change.

PUBLIC SAFETY

Stokesdale Fire Department. Dep. Chief Randy Southard said the department continued its trend of responding to a monthly average of 80+ calls in November, when it

responded to 85 calls; of those, 42 were medical-related, 14 were fire-related and 29 were miscellaneous.

Public safety tip: Southard encouraged residents to avoid placing Christmas decorations near heat sources, and to keep live Christmas trees watered.

ADMINISTRATIVE

Dep. Clerk Robbie Wagoner gave the staff administrative report, beginning with an overview of activities related to the water system. In November the town sold nine water meters, processed 14 applications for water service, placed 34 meters on hold and responded to 15 work orders. Staff also processed nineteen 811 calls (the national “call before you dig” phone number for requesting underground utility lines be marked with paint or flagged), and 721 water customers were billed.

Wagoner also said staff researched cleaning services, since the contract with the former cleaning company has ended, researched employee health insurance options and is working with Hazen & Sawyer on final approval of Phase I of the Blacksmith subdivision.

Yates Construction also performed another emergency repair of a water line, Wagoner noted.

Last month Wagoner attended the New Clerks Institute in Durham and he is registered for the Clerks Certification Institute in 2023.

Events Committee. Council member Derek Foy thanked the record number of sponsors and parade entrants, the fire department, volunteers and staff members for their support of the parade scheduled for Dec. 10, noting Purple Wagon Events would have a craft fair the day of the parade and Highland North Music would be performing live music from noon to 2 p.m.

Property Committee. Council member Jimmy Landreth said a discussion about the cleaning service for the town hall and park would take place later in the meeting.

Town Park Improvement Committee. Chair Tee Stephenson said committee members discussed the playground extension project with a representative from Cunningham Recreation, who recommended changing the initial location of the expanded playground area. Once finalized, the RFP (Request for Proposals) for playground equipment will be sent out with a request for firm quotes for this project.

FINANCIALS

Finance Officer Kim Thacker presented the balance sheets for the Operations and Water Enterprise accounts and noted assets in the town’s Operations account total $3,601,607.23.

Thacker noted that in the Water Enterprise account, there are no active water customer accounts with a pastdue balance of 90+ days; inactive accounts with balances that are 90+ days past due total $6,050.80.

Thanks to the record number of parade sponsors (15) and entrants, Thacker said income generated from the parade as of Dec. 8 was over $5,000, which more than covers parade expenses.

“I’m just amazed at that,” Thacker said.

AUDIT

Rex Rouse, with Rouse, Rouse, Rouse and Gardner, presented the

town’s annual audit report.

Rouse began by noting the town’s fund balance decreased last fiscal year by $129,884, bringing it to $2,982,618 as of June 30; he noted this decrease was mainly due to the town’s purchase of property adjacent to the park.

The town’s unassigned fund balance totals almost 5 ½ years of current annual operating expenses, which is far above the Local Government Commission’s recommendation of a minimum of 8% of operating expenses in reserves.

Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). Reece Walker, Summerfield Town Council member, spoke as area representative for the Metropolitan Planning Organization. In his role, Walker represents the towns of Summerfield, Oak Ridge, Stokesdale, Sedalia and Pleasant Garden.

Walker presented a PowerPoint explaining what the MPO is, who it represents, and the transportationrelated plans it is responsible for, noting the plans aren’t always “practical.” They are updated at least every five years, he said, and more often if/when needed.

When asked how he came to be the representative for the northwest Guilford towns, Walker said years ago the other towns had agreed to let someone from Summerfield represent them and the baton had since been passed from former Summerfield mayor/council member Dena Barnes to Summerfield council member John O’Day, and then to him.

Council member Tim Jones said he didn’t recall receiving any feedback or input from the area representative during his time on the council, and Walker said he had been in communication with the mayor and another council member, but could copy all council members on written correspondence in the future.

“The town of Stokesdale has to contend with a number of highways coming through our town. Where is our place on the MPO? We need to be sure we have a line of communication,” Jones said.

In response, Walker said he would advocate for creating another seat on

the MPO for Stokesdale, but wasn’t encouraged that this would be approved by the majority of MPO members. Short of that, he said the town’s best bet for direct input would be to seek participation on the organization’s Technical Coordinating Committee, which advises the Technical Advisory Committee, the MPO’s policy board.

Councilman Foy said he could think of several small highway/road projects that could benefit the town and asked Walker how Stokesdale could advocate for those. Walker said developing

a relationship with the Department of Transportation had benefited Summerfield, and gave examples of projects that the MPO would not have been involved in that the DOT was able to help with.

CITIZEN COMMENTS

 Adam Delveaux, a resident of Angel’s Glen, encouraged the town council to be more proactive in its planning regarding road-related issues, especially as the town continues to grow.

For example, “Left and right out of

here (Stokesdale Town Hall, off Angel Pardue Road), there is no lighting and no sidewalk to walk to the park,” he said. “As we expand in this area, I would encourage us to find a way to have our voices heard.”

PUBLIC HEARING

Council reviewed an ordinance closing a portion of Angel Pardue Road. Foy said he had heard concerns this ordinance would close off Adano Road, which was not the case.

Referencing the council’s vote earlier

Stokesdale downtown

this fall to adopt a resolution to close the road, which has since taken place, Foy said, “If the (town) planner were here, I would ask why we’re doing this three months after the road has been closed.” He then explained adopting this ordinance was “simply to correct the maps.”

 5  0 to approve the amended ordinance, as presented to the council.  5  0 to approve the 2023 council and board meeting calendar.

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Brian Campbell, Truist Mortgage

Brian Campbell began his career in the mortgage business after completing the BB&T (now Truist) Management Development Program, and for the past 20 years he has helped individuals and families build, purchase and refinance their homes.

“I strive to provide a distinctive, secure and successful client experience through touch and technology,” Brian said. “My business philosophy is ‘longterm relationships and trust will always be my beacon.’”

On a personal note, Brian and his wife were college sweethearts at UNCG over 20 years ago. They have been married more than 15 years and have

Bob Rents

Owned and operated by Tiffany and Mike Hansen

What began with a vision to provide foster children in our community with fun experiences they likely would not have had the opportunity to experience otherwise evolved into Bob Rents. Launched last month by Tiffany and Mike Hansen, the company provides the convenience of having tools delivered to the growing number of DIYers in the northwest Guilford County area.

The Hansens live in Oak Ridge, along with two of their four children. Tiffany left her corporate job about a year ago to be more available to the couple’s family and to work on bringing their vision for helping foster children to life.

“I spent most of my career working

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Brian is involved in several local charities and civic groups, including Merchants of Oak Ridge and Summerfield Merchants Association. When he has some free time, he said he enjoys traveling with his family, watching scary movies and engaging in fitness activities.

1For loan amounts one dollar ($1) above the conforming loan amount limit. Please Truist Bank is an Equal Housing Lender. © 2022 Truist Financial Corporation.

See ad on p. 7

for the largest hotel company in the world, and that experience taught me about providing exceptional customer service,” she said. “Mike is the mechanical mind beside me and helps ensure that ‘all is well.’”

Mike and Ti any Hansen

Whether you are planning a small project or completely landscaping your yard, Bob Rents will deliver the tools you need for a day, a week, or longer and provide complimentary pickup within 10 miles of Oak Ridge.

“Our goal is to serve and give back

to our community,” Tiffany said. “We look forward to seeing your project visions come to life and in turn, to sharing our visions.”

Tiffany currently serves as president of Northwest Guilford Women’s Club, a nonprofit that supports, organizes and promotes charitable/volunteer work in northwest Guilford County. The Hansens attend and serve with the Summit Church-Oak Ridge. Most of Tiffany’s leisure time is spent playing the “sport of the season” with the couple’s 10-yearold son.

Poppy & Pine

Katherine Coleman, owner

After purchasing Pineapple Porch this past October, owner Katherine Coleman changed the name to Poppy & Pine. Located in Hillsdale Village Shopping Center at the corner of N.C. 150 and Lake Brandt Road in Summerfield, the specialty boutique features home décor, furniture, clothing, jewelry and great gift options for all occasions (including complimentary gift wrapping). The boutique also offers home décor consulting services.

“Our goal is to provide affordable home and gift products without sacrificing quality,” Coleman said. “We strive to offer a personal and positive, memorable experience for each shopper.”

Coleman also owns and has operated another company in Kernersville for the past 11 years.

She traveled and lived abroad in Kuwait and Venezuela before settling back in the Triad in 1993.

She is the mother of two “amazing” children, ages 35 and 31, and has six grandchildren, all of whom live locally.

Coleman actively participates in events that support the Wounded Warriors project, and also works with local charities to support projects in the community that include Toys for Tots and Make-a-Wish Foundation.

In her spare time, Coleman enjoys being at the beach, and spending time with family and friends.

See ad on p. 2

On a personal note, Coleman grew up in Kernersville and moved to Oak Island when she was in middle school.

See ad on p. 11

Lee Strobel

Atheist-turned-Christian, Lee Strobel is the former award-winning legal editor of The Chicago Tribune and best-selling author of more than twenty books. His classic, The Case for Christ, is a perennial favorite which details his conversion to Christianity.

Friday, Jan. 27, 2023 ● 6:30-8:30pm Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023 ● 9am-2:30pm (lunch included on Saturday)

Lt General (RET) Jerry Boykin

William Gerald ”Jerry” Boykin

a retired

United States Deputy Undersecretary of President George W. Bush from 2002 to

Lee Strobel

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 DEC. 15, 2022 - JAN. 4, 2023 15

Atheist-turned-Christian, Lee Strobel is the former award-winning of The Chicago Tribune and best-selling author of more classic, The Case for Christ, is a perennial favorite which to Christianity.

Passersby by may have noticed something has been missing from the top of Liberty Wesleyan Church on U.S. 158 in Summerfield – the church’s beautiful steeple was destroyed by a storm on June 16. According to Pastor Danny Janes, Church Outlet of High Point was scheduled to install the new steeple Wednesday, Dec. 14.



Oops! In a previous issue we neglected to share this photo of several local veterans who attended the Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11 at Stokesdale Town Hall. As in years past, Stokesdale’s Veterans Monument Committee organized the annual ceremony to honor veterans, and those who attended were recognized and thanked for their service. Also during the ceremony, Stokesdale resident Alison Huber, the guest speaker, shared her background and experience with Triad Honor Flight, a nonprofit that flies veterans to Washington, D.C., for one day to visit monuments honoring veterans.

CHRISTMAS COMES EARLY SALE

Photo courtesy of Liberty Wesleyan Church

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

Adobe Stock photo

For sale: Wilson’s Grocery property – $2 million

CHRIS BURRITT

SUMMERFIELD – The oneacre tract that contains Wilson’s Grocery and an adjacent home is going for an asking price of $2 million, according to listing agent Keller Williams Realty One in Greensboro.

Realtors Mike Carter and Andrea

Blake are contacting more than 20 prospective buyers of the property at Carlson Dairy and Pleasant Ridge roads. Pam Fox, a daughter

of deceased owner Harold “Shorty” Wilson, provided the real estate agents with a list of prospects who had contacted her in the months before and after her father’s death on Aug. 6.

Coupled with its history and convenience, the store’s location at a busy intersection in northwestern Guilford County makes the property attractive to buyers, according to the real estate agents. They said prospects want to continue operating the store and gas pumps, with some considering the possibility of adding food service.

“When you say ‘Wilson’s,’ everyone knows where you’re talking about,” Carter said in an interview last week after he and Blake showed the property to one of the prospective buyers.

The store consists of 1,832 square feet, with a walk-in cooler and dry storage, as well as two gas pumps, according to the listing. Next door, there is a manufactured house with three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

The real estate agents said the new owner will refurbish the interior of the store, which is largely vacant except for shelving and coolers for beverages and

packaged foods.

“A lot (of the prospects) are very serious,” including many individuals who already own convenience stores, said Blake.

“ ey want to continue (it) as a convenience and gas store.”

The new owner won’t be able to continue using Wilson’s name, a stipulation imposed by the family, according to Carter. Fox, Wilson’s daughter, didn’t reply to a request for comment.

Wilson became co-owner of the store with his wife, Geneva, in 1972, according to his obituary. She died in 2016, at age 82. Wilson was 87 when he passed away this summer.

After Wilson’s death, Bruce Petersen, chair of Summerfield’s Historical Committee, and member Heather Buttonow interviewed Fox about the history of the store. The committee plans to edit and post the oral history in the next two months, Petersen said in an interview earlier this week.

Photos by Chris Burritt/NWO

The 1-acre tract that contains Wilson’s Grocery and an adjacent home at the corner of Carlson Dairy Road and Pleasant Ridge Road in Summerfield is listed for sale for $2 million, according to listing agents with Keller Williams Realty One in Greensboro. Several interested buyers have indicated they want to remodel the building and continue using the property as a convenience store and gas station, possibly adding food service.

Getting ‘back to normalcy’

encouraging some consumers to spend.

“My holiday inventory has been coming in since the summer, like normal,” said Cobb, surrounded by boxes of gingerbread cookie mix and shelves laden with pillows, greenery and miniature Christmas trees.

by CHRIS BURRITT

NORTHWEST GUILFORD – A year ago, Tammy Cobb was struggling to stock her Pineapple Porch stores with holiday merchandise and home décor. Earlier this week, shipments were coming in so fast she temporarily stored chairs in the back of her pickup truck.

As merchandise shortages and shipping delays spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic have eased, northwest Guilford business owners said in interviews earlier this week that business conditions are showing signs of returning to normalcy. Though still hampered by staff shortages and spotty deliveries, they’re also heartened that falling gasoline prices are

Over the past year, Cobb has shrunk her Pineapple Porch footprint, closing her Stokesdale store and selling her Summerfield outlet. She’s now focused on her Oak Ridge store.

In an encouraging development earlier this week, Cobb said she placed an order for home décor from a Pennsylvania supplier. She expects to receive the merchandise in a day or two, whereas last year similar deliveries took as long as two weeks.

“I think the supply chain is returning to normalcy,” said Cobb, explaining that the steady ow of merchandise is critical for her business.

“People love coming in and seeing

what I’ve got that’s new,” she said. “I’ve been able to keep putting new product out.”

In Summerfield, Jason Cockman opened Village Beverage Co. in October 2020 in the midst of the pandemic. Take-out sales of cans and bottles of craft beer – some labels selling for more than $20 a six-pack –benefited from the temporary closing of bars and restaurants. His business has gained with the addition of beer sales inside his establishment and an increase in outdoor events.

“People like being around each other; they’ve missed the social interaction,” said Cockman, sitting at an outdoor table. “People are eager to get back to normalcy.”

Nationally, some economic signs are improving. The U.S. inflation rate

was 7.1% over the 12 months ending in November, easing for a fifth straight month. The November increase was also the slowest pace in nearly a year, according to figures from the U.S. Labor Department earlier this week.

Even so, the Federal Reserve bolstered its inflation fight by raising its key interest rates for the seventh time in 2022. It also signaled that more hikes are to come after this past Wednesday, Dec. 14, increasing its benchmark rate a half-point to a range of 4.25% to 4.5%, its highest level in 15 years.

“We will stay the course until the job is done,” Fed Chair Jerome Powell said, adding he anticipates no rate cuts until inflation reverses course and moves back toward 2%.

For some people, declining gasoline prices are easing pocketbook worries.

In North Carolina, the price for a gallon of unleaded fuel has tumbled from its record high of $4.67 on

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO Pineapple Porch owner Tammy Cobb said supply shortages and delays have eased over the past year, enabling her to stock her Oak Ridge store for the holidays.

June 13, according to AAA. As of yesterday, the price was $3 a gallon, down from $3.11 a year earlier.

For John and Gina Childress, owners of Golden Antiques and Treasures in Summerfield, rising fuel costs crimped sales this year, until recently.

Customers “have been more cautious in 2022,” Gina said. “But starting in November, they threw caution to the wind. It may be the holiday spirit.

“Sometimes giving takes precedent over worry,” she said. “Next year, I’m hoping that people are willing to get out and they’re not in fear for their nances.”

Falling gas prices help consumers as well as companies such as Pest Management Systems that rely on vehicles to provide services to customers.

Summerfield’s Billy Tesh, owner of Pest Management, said he’s heartened by business trends in recent months.

“I’m feeling optimistic,” he said. “I’m looking forward to 2023. I think it’s going to be a good year.”

Tesh said he believes “people are gaining a little more comfort in what’s going on in the economic world. Right now, we are seeing a little ease in the economic stress that we were seeing.

Even so, some costs remain stubbornly high. A crate of Californiagrown lettuce containing 24 heads of the vegetable costs about $80, more than twice the price a year ago, according to David Wrenn, owner of the Bi-Rite grocery store in Stokesdale.

Costs of plastic bags and Styrofoam takeout food containers have tripled, forcing stores and restaurants to pass on higher costs to customers. Some shortages persist, ranging from

dog and cat food and Luck’s canned apples.

“Customers aren’t happy about prices, but they know I’m doing the best that I can do,” said Wrenn, pausing momentarily as he greeted customers and took a young man to the aisle with two-cycle motor oil.

“ e mood of customers is positive,” Wrenn said. “ ey like getting out, nally.”

Businesses such as Center Grove Grill in Summerfield have recovered after the end of pandemic restrictions earlier this year allowed them to reopen their doors to customers.

For two years, grill owners and sisters Rhonda Pegram and Lorie Page served customers through a window in the restaurant. They’ve battled the labor crunch by relying on family members and friends looking for work.

“Our business is back to normal, but food costs are higher,” said Pegram, explaining the restaurant recently increased the price of its daily special from $11.99 to $12.99.

As customers eat chicken pie, pork chops and collards, they talk about higher prices, according to Pegram. Despite easing of inflation, she believes prices of some items are going to keep rising, or at least stay high.

“Bacon and hamburger costs have doubled since all of this started,” Pegram said. “Next year, I don’t see prices getting better. Once things go up they rarely come back down.”

The boom in takeout orders bolstered 2020 sales for Bill’s Pizza Pub, which operates two locations in

Oak Ridge and Greensboro. Since then, however, rising costs have hurt the business, which reported a loss in the fiscal year that ended June 30, according to Donna Rogers, who owns the company with John Spencer.

“We are going through a bad time, but we believe that it is temporary,” said Rogers, explaining that she’s hoping for a rebound next March when business typically strengthens.

Meanwhile, staffing remains a hurdle for Bill’s Pizza Pub. While the two restaurants are open seven days a week, they’ve closed early on a few occasions due to a lack of workers.

“Right now, we’re holding our own,” Rogers said. Among her efforts to find workers, she said her “pleas of desperation” posts on the business’s Facebook page have proved more effective than online and other advertising.

Staffing “is not where we want it to be,” she said. “We haven’t decided whether this is the new norm or not.”

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Fidelity Bank gets new branch manager

STOKESDALE – Fidelity Bank, a fullservice financial institution headquartered in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, recently announced Ashley Wolff has joined its team in Stokesdale as vice president and branch manager. In her new position, Wolff is responsible for business development and for providing outstanding service to bank customers of the Fidelity Bank branch located at 8110 U.S. 158.

Wolff has 16 years of financial experience. Prior to joining Fidelity Bank, she worked for First Horizon Bank, at Woodforest National Bank, and was a customer service representative/loan

officer for Peoples Bank. In addition to her financial background, she is active in the community and currently serves as a board member for the Salvation Army of Greater Winston-Salem and has previously served as secretary of Salvation Army of Kernersville and Next Step Ministries. Wolff lives in Kernersville with her husband, Kelly, and their three sons.

DeVaney attends guided surgery training

Dr. Matt DeVaney of DeVaney Dentistry in Oak Ridge recently attended two days of training on the latest technique for guided surgery for teeth fixed to dental implants, replacing all teeth with a new smile in one day.

GORDON BUILDING

...continued from p. 2 and a septic field.

The bidder requested the use of parking at Summerfield Town Hall, which sits cattycornered across the intersection of Summerfield Road and N.C. 150 from the Gordon Hardware building. The bidder also asked whether he could use town property across Highway 150 from the store for sewer services.

Town staff rejected both requests by the prospective buyer, Whitaker said.

The prospect of a brew pub in Summerfield’s historic intersection drew more than 130 comments on the Northwest Observer’s Facebook page. Some wrote that they liked the idea, but questioned whether the project could overcome the parking and septic hurdles.

Most people said they’d welcome the establishment and the business would be a positive for Summerfield, while a few people raised concerns

about the sale of alcohol in close vicinity to homes and to Summerfield Elementary School.

According to Whitaker, four bidders offered to buy the Gordon building. The contract price of $125,000 is the asking price, Turner said in an email.

The Gordon building and the nearby Martin house are owned by the Town of Summerfield. Over the years, town leaders have evaluated restoring the two buildings, but estimates have proven too expensive. As a result, the council decided to explore selling the properties instead of retaining ownership and risking that they fall into further disrepair.

In June, the Town Council voted to contract with Preservation North Carolina to conduct a national search for buyers for the two properties.

The asking price for the Martin House is $110,000.

“The goal is to get the properties into qualified, historically minded hands,” Whitaker told the council in a memo last June.

Ashley Wol

STOKESDALE TOWN COUNCIL

...continued from p. 13

Town Park. Foy said he was excited about all four park additions and improvements presented last month coming closer to fruition: a basketball court, new playground equipment, a walking trail and an amphitheater. He then said he felt a public forum should be scheduled before the Jan. 12 council meeting, in the hopes of gaining more citizen input.

 5  0 to schedule a special call meeting on Thursday, Jan. 5, at 7 p.m. and hold a public forum for citizen input on the four park projects under consideration.

Water system, capital improvements. Foy noted that at its Nov. 10 meeting, the council discussed extending the town’s water lines. A resident of Happy Hill Road had shared he would like to see Anthony Road and Happy Hill Road, Warner Road and Haw River Road considered as a route for water system expansion.

“In my opinion, that would be a good option,” Foy said, noting the town now had two viable alternatives –a Coldwater Road, Belews Creek Road and Oak Level Church Road loop, and this one mentioned above.

Jones pointed out that a developer plans to extend a water line down Happy Hill Road and into Forsyth County.

“Are we taking into account how we’re affecting that project?” he asked. “If I was this developer, I would be sending Christmas cards to this council.”

After further discussion, Foy emphasized the developer would be extending water lines 2,000 to 3,000 feet, and the town’s potential extension on Happy Hill Road would pick up where those water lines end.

When Landreth and Jones expressed concerns about the town giving some homeowners an unfair advantage by enhancing their properties (because of running water lines past them), Rigsbee responded, “The intent isn’t to enhance anyone’s property, rather to enhance the town’s water system.”

 5  0 to approve Hazen & Sawyer’s proposal dated Dec. 7, for $2,500, to run models of two options for extending water lines.

Health insurance. Wagoner presented two proposals for health insurance coverage for full-time employees: one, for about $500/month through Friday Health Plans, is based on age and income, and the government supplements the cost. The cost of the second one, through Blue Cross/Blue Shield, is about $1,300/month.

Foy expressed concerns about the proposal from Friday Health Plans. During council discussion about the two policies, deputy clerk Priscilla Hunsucker, who formerly worked for an insurance company, called in and answered questions about what she had learned after researching the two insurance policies and if she was comfortable that the lower-cost policy would be adequate (she said yes).

 4  1 (Foy opposed) to accept the estimate/ proposal by Friday Health Plans, and because of the decrease in cost compared to what it would be through Blue Cross/Blue Shield, to cover the cost, up to $650 each per month, of health insurance for each of the two full-time employees.

 5  0 to continue contracting for cleaning services (as opposed to hiring an employee).

Cleaning services. Landreth presented a proposal from Whitney Woody for $470/month and disclosed that she is the girlfriend of deputy clerk Priscilla Hunsucker’s son; Woody has agreed to work on a contractual basis and handle a list of responsibilities, including cleaning

town hall and emptying trash cans in the town park.

 5  0 to contract with Whitney Woody, at $470/month, for weekly cleaning services as outlined on a written task list, provided she carries a $1 million public liability insurance policy.

 5  0 to appoint Tee Stephenson as an alternate on the Planning Board.

Spending authorities. On behalf of town staff, Wagoner requested clarifications regarding spending authorities. He said the issue came up recently, when there was an emergency water leak and staff put in a request for Yates to repair it.

“We just wanted clarification that town staff acted correctly,” he said.

Foy said he felt Wagoner did act appropriately. “It was a $4,700 expenditure,” he said. “I don’t know another way we would have done that.”

Jones questioned whether the “pre-audit certification process” had been followed and suggested the town “get back” to a system previously used, and to develop a price list for repairs.

When Landreth asked what should have been done differently, Jones responded, “Follow the policy we have.”

It was agreed that in the future, staff will call (versus email) any two town council members for approval before authorizing an emergency repair, at a repair cost not to exceed $25,000.

Budget amendment. HVAC units were ordered last fiscal year but didn’t arrive for installation until November; consequently, Thacker requested a budget amendment to increase revenue in Undesignated Funds by $20,000 and expenses for Town Hall repairs by $20,000 in the current year’s budget.

 4  1 (Jones opposed) to approve the budget amendment.

 5  0 to have the town attorney draft a contract, including 12 points as outlined in a job description for a public utility consultant, per a Dec. 8 email from Jones, to hire Mike Lemons Consulting on a part-time basis.

 5  0 to appoint Jones and Crawford to serve on a liaison committee to work with Mike Lemons Consulting.

Crawford read announcements, after which council members recessed the open meeting to go into a closed meeting at 10:35 p.m. for two purposes: to consult with the attorney and to “plan, conduct or hear reports concerning investigations of alleged criminal misconduct.”

Council returned to open session about 45 minutes later. After offering merry Christmas wishes, the meeting was adjourned at 11:29 p.m.

Kids’ Korner

Merry Christmas

Sudoku

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

NOW THROUGH DEC. 24

 Holiday stores | Summerfield Peace United Methodist Church is hosting a Dewey’s Bakery holiday store at Tire Max, 4420 U.S. 220 N in Summerfield; Moravia Moravian Church in Oak Ridge is hosting a holiday store in the Oak Ridge Room (next to Bistro 150 in Oak Ridge Commons); and Morehead United Methodist Church, 3214 Horse Pen Creek Road in Greensboro, is hosting a holiday store at the church. Check each church’s website for holiday store hours of operation. Curbside pick-up is available if you shop at www.deweysbakerypartner.com. All proceeds from the holiday stores go to support church missions.

SATURDAY, DEC. 17

 Food pantry | Good Samaritan Ministries’ food pantry in Stokesdale will open for those in need of food on Dec. 17, 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Stokesdale Business Center, 8500 Ellisboro Road. To receive

assistance or to make a donation to the ministry, contact Terri Johnson, (336) 643-5887 or terrij1957@yahoo.com.

SUNDAY, DEC. 18

 Live Nativity scene | Stokesdale Christian Church, 8607 Stokesdale Street in Stokesdale, will host a live Nativity scene Dec. 18, 5 to 7 p.m. Drive through, or park and enjoy the scene along with music. Kids will receive treat bags. More info: stokesdalecc@gmail.com.

TUESDAY, JAN. 3

 Kiwanis Club | Kiwanis Club of Northwest Guilford, a nonprofit that focuses on projects for children in our community, will meet Jan. 3, starting at 12 noon at Bill’s Pizza, 1431 N.C. 68 in Oak Ridge. More info: nwgkiwanis@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 4

 Senior program | Senior Resources of Guilford County will sponsor a senior program including activities and a take-home lunch on Jan. 4

from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon at Oak Ridge First Baptist Church, 2445 Oak Ridge Road. To learn

more and/or RSVP, contact Marsha McDaniel, (336) 373-4816, ext. 265.

 Preservation Oak Ridge | Preservation Oak Ridge, a nonprofit committed to preserving historic structures in Oak Ridge, will meet Jan. 4, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the historic Ai Church, 1306 N.C. 68 N in Oak Ridge. More info: www.preserveoakridge.org or call Mike Stone, president, at (336) 402-0144.

 Friends of Stokesdale | Friends of Stokesdale, a nonprofit committed to preserving Stokesdale’s history and downtown charm, invites those with similar interests to their monthly meeting Jan. 4, 7 to 8 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. For more info, visit www.facebook.com/ friendsofstokesdale or call Joe Thacker, president, at (336) 708-0334.

THURSDAY, JAN. 5

 Town Council meeting | Oak Ridge Town Council will meet Jan. 5, starting at 7 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road. Attend in person or watch the meeting on the town’s YouTube channel. For more info or a meeting agenda, visit www.oakridgenc.com.

CAROLYN BROWN REMEMBERED

...continued from p. 6

Jim Haase joined the Lions Club at the invitation of Brown. Riding in the back of a truck together during last year’s Christmas parade in Stokesdale, Kerstin said Brown spent more time “waving at people than throwing candy because she knew everybody.”

During last year’s Light Up the Night festivities in Oak Ridge Town Park, Brown rode in a golf cart driven by Patti Dmuchowski, who organized the event as chair of the Special Events Committee. The driver recalled that Brown seemed to know “every single person who was there. She was so funny and so full of life.”

Council members also shared memories of Brown.

“We are all richer for having known her,” said George McClellan, explaining

Brown was one of the first people he met when he moved to Oak Ridge.

“She was truly the heart of Oak Ridge,” he said. “She is going to be missed. On the other hand, we in this room are her legacy. We’ll make the most of it.”

Jim Kinneman said he couldn’t recall Brown ever being angry.

“Her sense of humor was amazing,” he said. “She could always make you laugh. She always loved smiling.”

Martha Pittman described Brown as “a role model…who had just the right mix of graciousness and spunk to get you through just about anything that life is going to throw at you.”

Spencer Sullivan said he and his wife, Linda, knew Brown for more than

Light Up theNight

What started out as a rainy morning turned into a wonderful Light Up the Night event in Oak Ridge on Dec. 3. Folks were able to enjoy a Grinch hayride, magic tricks, performances by Destination Arts students, seasonal music, craft vendors and food trucks, free hot chocolate and family photos provided by the Summit Church-Oak Ridge, and Santa arriving on the antique Oak Ridge fire truck. The highlight of the night was the lighting of the Christmas tree and over 1,300 luminar ies which were painstakingly placed along the park’s walkways by a wonderful group of volunteers –and at the very end of the evening, a spectacu lar fireworks show.

The Special Events Committee looks forward to an even bigger and better Light Up the Night event next year.

40 years, meeting her initially when she served as the elementary school’s secretary.

“She loved all of the kids,” he said. “And they loved her.”

“I know we call her the ‘Queen of Oak Ridge,’” Sullivan said. “But for a good number of years, she was the town mom, too.”

Sullivan said he was humbled and honored that Brown had requested he sing at her funeral service.

Mayor Ann Schneider read remarks offered by Patti Stokes, publisher and editor of the Northwest Observer and Lions Club treasurer.

“Carolyn Brown had so many qualities that I loved,” Stokes wrote. “But just a few of my favorites were that she was very kind, down to earth and very classy. I honestly don’t think she realized how special she was. (That) was another

wonderful quality – her humbleness.

“Carolyn lived a life of wealth, but not the kind measured in dollars,” Stokes continued. “Hers was filled with the love of family, friends, music, laughter and giving to others, always with God at the center. Until the day she died, she was never a burden to anyone and always a blessing to everyone.”

Brown’s death “marks the end of an era” for Oak Ridge, Schneider said. Among the mayor’s favorite memories was singing on Brown’s front porch with other friends and family, accompanied by Brown playing the ukulele.

“My heart will stay on that porch and Ms. Carolyn, I know, will stay in all of our hearts, always,” Schneider said.

Sean Taylor, Oak Ridge’s planning director, ended the tribute to Brown by singing “Christ the Lord is Risen Today,” one of her favorite hymns.

Photos by Patti Stokes/NWO

Santa got an unexpected show of appreciation from two fans, Alison Huber of Stokesdale (left) and Amy Carrickhoff of Oak Ridge.

Patti Dmuchowski, chair

Oak Ridge Special Events Committee

Evelyn Brown (right), 3, and her sister, Nora Kate, 6 months, of northwest Greensboro shared their wish list with Santa.

Volunteers with the Summit Church-Oak Ridge stand ready to serve attendees hot chocolate, compliments of the church. The church also offered complimentary family photos taken against a Christmas backdrop.

Oak Ridge Elementary students performed several songs at the site of the Christmas tree before the tree and luminaries were lit at dusk.

Oak Ridge Town Park

View more photos from this event at facebook.com/ NorthwestObserver

Stokesdale Christmas parade

Saturday, Dec. 10 l Downtown Stokesdale

The parade last Saturday was a big success, and it was great to see the community come together to celebrate Christmas. I was so impressed with all the parade participants and floats, and it was good to see so many nonprofits, churches and businesses be part of the parade. As in years past, the success of the parade goes to all the sponsors, participants, parade volunteers and community members who support the event. It’s cool to be a part of something that is so important to our community.

Derek Foy member of Special Events Committee and Stokesdale Town Council

Photos by Patti Stokes/NWO

District 1 Sheri ’s O ce

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

ASSAULT/DOMESTIC INCIDENT

Dec. 7 | A 37-year-old male was arrested for simple assault and a 36-year-old male was arrested for assault on a female in the 1800 block of Elk Run Court in Oak Ridge (near N.C. 68 N).

Dec. 10 | Law enforcement officers responded to a domestic incident involving alcohol and a physical altercation at 2:06 a.m. in the 7200 block of Northmoor Trace in northern Greensboro (off Plainfield Road).

BOND SURRENDER

Dec. 12 | A 37-year-old male was arrested in the 4400 block of U.S. 220 N in Summerfield on eight counts of bond surrender.

DEATH INVESTIGATION

Dec. 3 | Officers conducted a death investigation in the 4900 block of Golden Oaks Drive in Oak Ridge (near Alcorn Road).

Dec. 7 | Officers conducted a death investigation in the 8000 block of Oak Creek Drive in Stokesdale (near U.S. 158).

Dec. 10 | Officers conducted a death investigation in the 4100 block of Brynwood Drive in Colfax (off Leabourne Road).

DRIVING VIOLATIONS

Dec. 5 | A 31-year-old female was arrested at 5:22 a.m. in the 1400 block of Pleasant Ridge Road/N.C. 68 N in northwest Greensboro for allowing an unauthorized person to operate a motor vehicle, allowing a motor vehicle to be operated without a registration tag and allowing a motor vehicle to be operated without insurance.

Dec. 12 | An 18-year-old male was arrested at 3:49 a.m. in the 3300 block of Rebecca Drive in Summerfield (off Strawberry Road) for driving while impaired, driving after consuming alco-

hol underage and vandalism with willful and wanton injury to property.

DRUGS

Dec. 2 | Officers seized 11.1 grams of marijuana during a traffic stop at 12:54 a.m. in the 4500 block of U.S. 220 N and Auburn Road in Summerfield.

FRAUD

Nov. 29 | A resident of the 8400 block of Winding Hill Drive in Stokesdale (off N.C. 65) reported that between Nov. 23–29 an unknown suspect used her personal identification info to defraud her of $1,150.

Nov. 29 | A resident of the 1800 block of Wild Fern Drive in Oak Ridge (in River Oaks) reported an unknown suspect defrauded her of $8,750.

Dec. 1 | A resident of the 7400 block of Summerfield Road in Summerfield reported that between Nov. 15-22 an unknown suspect forged a check, which defrauded her of $656.70.

Dec. 1 | A resident of the 5800 block of Beckenham Way in Oak Ridge (near Stafford Mill Road) reported that between Nov. 26 and Dec. 1 an unknown suspect used her personal identification information to commit fraud.

Dec. 2 | An employee of Stokesdale Veterinary Hospital reported a known suspect defrauded the business of $110.86.

THEFT

Nov. 29 | A citizen at Summerfield Town Hall reported that between Nov. 28-29 an unknown suspect stole a catalytic converter worth $200.

Dec. 3 | A resident of the 8100 block of Oak Creek Drive in Stokesdale reported an unknown suspect stole one of his key fobs, which has a replacement cost of $500.

Dec. 7 | A citizen at CountrySide Market gas station at U.S. 158 and N.C. 68 in Stokesdale reported an unknown suspect stole $51 worth of gas from him.

Dec. 10 | A resident of the 600 block of Plainfield Road in northern Greensboro reported that between Dec. 3-10 an unknown suspect stole a SIG SAUER pistol worth $600.

TRAFFIC INCIDENT

Dec. 7 | A resident of the 8200 block of Springdale Meadow Court in Stokesdale (near N.C. 68 N) reported a traffic incident in which $500 worth of damage was done to his garage door.

TRESPASSING

Dec. 2 | A business owner in the

3400 block of Edgefield Court in northwest Greensboro (off Edgefield Road) reported an unknown suspect trespassed on his property.

VANDALISM

Nov. 29 | A resident of the 8500 block of Shedan Road in Stokesdale (off Belews Creek Road) reported a known suspect vandalized his work vehicle.

Dec. 5 | A member of Triad Hindu Temple in northwest Greensboro reported that between Dec. 1-5 an unknown suspect damaged a safe and a master lock at the temple property.

Dec. 7 | A resident of the 8300 block of Tyner Loop in Colfax (off Sandy Ridge Road) reported an unknown suspect vandalized his red Honda ATV.

District 1 Sheri ’s O ce

7504 Summerfield Road • Main number: (336) 641-2300

Report non-emergency crime-related incidents by calling: (336) 373-2222 • 8 a.m.–5 p.m., M-F https://www.guilfordcountync.gov/our-county/sheriff-s-office

TREASURED CHRISTMAS MEMORIES, TRADITIONS

nursing home.”

Although Christmas was simple that year, Ramba said she and Bob were looking forward to “giving nice gifts to our families.” All she wanted for herself was a watch.

“Bob was able to give me a watch that I needed for my job,” Ramba said. “I still remember that beloved silver Timex, with a white face to match my uniform!”

Ramba ended up working Christmas Day that year, and while most people would have been unhappy about that, she considered it a blessing. When she and her co-workers had been asked which day they wanted off – Christmas or New Year’s – the gentle-natured Ramba had written “the day after Christmas would be nice,” but she felt guilty and scratched it out.

“When the schedule came out, they gave me off on Dec. 26,” she said. “I couldn’t have been happier.”

Ramba remembers that Christmas day well. Sporting her “dear, new watch,” she was given an assignment that she loved the most.

“On special days, they needed one person to run around and help everyone, and have all the rooms looking pristine,” she said. “I have to say that if they wanted the beds and rooms tidy, I was their girl! It was such a heartening day. Even the patients there were like my family.

“When Bob came from his parents’ house to pick me up, he handed me the most beautiful rose before we headed back to his mom and dad’s. Getting home that night, my heart was so happy to know that I would be off the next day.

“I can’t describe the joy I felt, sitting with my two cats and listening to Christmas music. The rose that Bob gave me became more and more beautiful each day. This went on for almost a month. I can’t help but look at that Christmas as a gift from God.”

When asked about her favorite Christmas memories, you can almost see Anna Carter travel back to her childhood, when she and her brother and sister came down the stairs early Christmas morning to see what Santa had left under the tree.

The Oak Ridge resident recalled how Santa never wrapped any of their gifts.

“Everything was arranged around the tree in three groups, one for each of us,” Carter said. “It was still dark outside, but Santa had plugged up the tree so that when we came down, there was just a magical glow.”

Part of the fun was trying to determine which specific gift collection belonged to each child. Finding her brother’s gifts was relatively easy, and most of the time the girls quickly determined which gifts were theirs, especially if one of them asked for a specific item.

into the living room to exchange gifts and laughs and love.

“By Christmas of 1998, the family had more than doubled. We had no idea that it would be our last one as a whole. Both my grandparents died within eight months of one another the following year. My cousin, Wendy, now lives in that house. The memories –especially the Christmas ones – flood back every time I pass it.”

Clark Doggett of Summerfield said he and his wife, Jane, got married while he was in college, and they endured some rather lean times.

“We were as poor as church mice,” he recalled. “My junior year we had been eating a lot of tomato soup and banana sandwiches.

“That Christmas my parents gave us a roasting pan. We had no idea why they gave us a roasting pan, because we certainly couldn’t afford to put anything in it.”

However, his parents had another surprise for them.

“When we opened the pan, it was filled with $1 bills! Boy, did that change our diet for a while,” Doggett said.

While Christmas Eve is a special day for many people, it’s even more so for Danielle Gram

“Some of my favorite Christmas memories involve spending the day at my Nana and Pa Priddy’s house on Ellisboro Road,” said Stokesdale’s Robin Priddy. “There, my family gathered in the most wonderful little cinder block cottage with my aunt, uncle and cousins.

“I can still see my Nana’s aluminum tree in the corner of the living room, with what seemed to me hundreds of gifts around it,” Priddy said. “I can see us eating in shifts at a kitchen table overflowing with all our family favorites – especially my Nana’s chocolate pies. I can see us squeezed

“My husband, Mark, proposed on that day,” the Oak Ridge resident said.

Over the years, the couple, along with their teenage daughter, have created a tradition that adds to the magic of the day. On Christmas Eve, the family opens one present each, which is always pajamas.

“We throw them on and load up in the car with blankets, hot chocolate and cookies, and drive around to look at lights,” she said.

Last year, Mark was given a reprieve from wearing his pajamas for the annual holiday jaunt.

Photo courtesy of Bill Kepley

years before Meads finally realized this was where Santa stored all his gifts.

“I always thought Santa just found us in Georgia,” she said.

She and her brother, Jared Ginn, a resident of Colfax, never talked about what was in the cargo box and to this day she isn’t sure he even thought about it.

As an adult, Lindsay Harrell recalls magical Christmas moments made even more meaningful by her parents.

“When we were little, my brother and I would wake up on Christmas morning, excited to see what Santa brought,” the Stokesdale resident said.

“My parents would go down the stairs to check everything out and get the video camera ready before we went down. Then we’d run down the steps to see all the toys and gifts.

“After that, we’d have Christmas morning breakfast in the dining room

with fancy cloth napkins. Mom and Dad always made it so special for us!”

The oldest of four children, Oak Ridge resident Beth Cameron has fond memories of a tradition that started when she was just a baby.

“Beginning with my first Christmas Eve many years ago, my dad would read to us kids on Christmas Eve,” Cameron said. “We would all get cozy beside him on the couch – two kids on each side – and he would don his Santa hat. My mom was always nearby listening as well.

“He would first read to us ‘The Night Before Christmas’ by Clement C. Moore. When reading he would use different voices and make the story come alive. He would always get very animated when reading the part about Santa calling out all the reindeer names. It was so much fun hearing his

“He actually refused to wear his ‘pink nightmare’ bunny jammies last year while driving, just in case he had to get out of the car,” Danielle laughed.

Once home, the trio gathers and reads the Christmas story from the Bible by the light of the tree.

Stokesdale’s Kris Cayton cherishes the memory of a small gift given with an abundance of love.

“At the time, my grandmother was a widow with 30ish grandchildren and 40ish great-grandchildren. For Christmas, she would give everyone brand new $2 bills,” he recalled.

“While this doesn’t sound like much, with that much family, it adds up for a farmer’s widow. I still have many of the $2 bills. She passed away back in 1989. The memories and love are worth much more than what

that bill reflected.”

When Greta Meads was about 6 years old, she and her family moved from their home in a small town in Georgia, first to Massachusetts and a couple of years later to northwest Guilford County.

Meads’ extended family – grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins –remained in Georgia, so it was a given that the family of four, which included Meads, her parents and her younger brother, would make the trek farther south for Christmas.

Meads remembers those trips well.

“We would always drive through the night and there was always a cargo box on the top of our van,” said Meads, who is raising her own family in Stokesdale.

This annual trip was the only time the cargo box ever appeared. It was

The Kepley family of Oak Ridge enjoys their tradition of dressing up in matching Christmas pajamas.

TREASURED CHRISTMAS MEMORIES, TRADITIONS

wonderful voice talk like Santa!

“After that book was finished, he would get very serious and bring out his King James Bible. It was time for the real story of Christmas. He’d read in a reverent voice the story of Jesus’s birth from the book of Luke. We were completely fascinated by this beautiful story. After our dad finished, he would solemnly close his Bible and we would talk about the true meaning of Christmas.

“When each of us grew up and became parents, we all continued this meaningful tradition with our own children. Now that I am a grandmother, I hope my kids will continue this tradition as well. If they don’t, maybe I’ll have to!”

“My favorite Christmas memory would have to be going to my cousins’ house and spending Christmas with all of them,” said Ava Troxler, who lives in Stokesdale. “We always have steak for dinner, which is my favorite, watch ‘Christmas Vacation’ and spend the night together.”

Ava, 15, is wise enough to realize these treasured times don’t last forever.

“As we all get older, we’re not together as much and it’s so much fun to have something special to do and

all be together every year,” she said.

For the past several years, the Kepley family of Oak Ridge has celebrated Christmas by donning matching jammies. The tradition started with Bill and Val Kepley and their three sons, and has since expanded to include an in-law, girlfriend and even a few furry family members.

Last year the crew added a twist to their family tradition when they ventured outside their home clad in their pajamas to take care of a bit of last-minute shopping.

“It’s fun and festive, and we go shopping for eggnog in our gear,” Bill said.

“My favorite Christmas memory is from 2018, when a retired member of the Sheriff’s Association (dressed as Santa) came to our home to visit my son, Henry,” said Laura Foy, a resident of Summerfield. “Henry is very immunocompromised due to a genetic disorder, which unfortunately limits him from enjoying many childhood activities.

“For Santa to make a special trip to our home where Henry could meet him in his own environment is a memory I will always treasure. I’m not sure what Henry enjoyed more, sitting on Santa’s lap or playing with his beard!”

Stokesdale brothers Caleb and Mason Harrell’s favorite Christmas traditions both involve baking projects.

girls always go to Waffle House for dinner on Christmas Eve. It has just become our title tradition,” she said.

Since her husband, Tommy, passed away in early December three years ago, Christmas has not been an easy time for Jeanette Bowman, who lives just outside Oak Ridge. Still, she cherishes the times she and Tommy shared.

“We used to go out shopping for each other for Christmas,” she said. “We went to the same store on Christmas Eve. He would go one way, and I another to buy something for each other to be a surprise for Christmas Day… I miss him so much.”

The 1995 Christmas season brought with it the expectation of a very special gift for Colfax’s Jeanne Christman.

“I was 39 weeks pregnant with my daughter and was wondering if she would be born on Christmas Day,” Christman said.

However, the baby decided to wait around until the 28th, which gave the ever-practical Christman “time to quickly take down the decorations so I could be ready for a new baby.”

Caleb, 9, most enjoys the family’s tradition of baking a birthday cake for Jesus and celebrating his birth.

Mason, 6, likes making cookies for Santa – but he might have an ulterior motive.

“When Santa doesn’t finish his cookies, I eat the rest when I wake up,” he said.

Ginger Keever has a bittersweet memory of the last Christmas she had with her mom.

“It was 2017 and she was in the hospital,” said Keever, who lives in Stokesdale. “We were hoping she would get to come home before Christmas but that did not happen.

“The nurses were so awesome, and made room for all of us. We ordered food and hung out most of the day. It was just a special time. She passed a few days later, on Dec. 29.”

Keever also shared what has become a favorite family tradition, which started a few years ago.

“My husband and I and our two

Steve Dixon grew up on a small tobacco farm, where he lived with his parents and two brothers. While he didn’t say they were poor, he did say they had limited means.

“My mom always tried to make Christmas special,” Dixon shared. “We always got candy, pop guns and clothes, but there was always a very special meal with more than anyone could eat.

“Our mom could make something out of almost nothing. I thought then that we were kinda poor, but now I realize we were really blessed beyond belief. As I sit here with my coffee and remember those times, it swells my heart.”

For Mike Nelson of Colfax, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without the music of the season. As a member of Central Baptist Church’s Wind Ensemble, Nelson takes every opportunity to put himself and others in the spirit by sharing his musical talents.

“I really enjoyed being able to play Christmas with the band (at the recent Light Up the Night in Oak Ridge Town Park),” he said.

For Amy McMahon, it’s the small things that make Christmas so special.

“One of my most memorable Christmas gifts is a keychain from my daughter,” the Greensboro resident said. “It reads, ‘Remember, I love you, Mom.’ She saved up her money to buy it for me and it still brightens my day every day when I see it! I love carrying her ‘love note’ with me wherever I go.”

Taking the time to remember what Christmas is really about is a tradition the McMahon family holds dear.

“We read the story of Jesus’s birth from the Bible on Christmas morning before we open presents,” she said. “We take turns each year deciding who will read it and then we say a prayer before digging into the pandemonium.”

bring everyone together.

“We began a tradition that has worked well for all of us,” Carol said. “The weekend before Christmas our kids, their spouses and our grandkids come from West Virginia, Ohio, Raleigh and Greensboro for our family Christmas.

“This includes dinner, gift giving and games. The highlight of the evening, much to the delight of our grandkids, is Mark playing ‘Mr. Christmas,’ dressed in his most loud and colorful Christmas suit.

“Sitting in the middle of the living room, surrounded by tons of presents and excited kids waiting for their turn to help Mark give out presents, fills us with the joy and warmth of Christmas that only being surrounded by the people you love most in the world can give you.

come from Ohio and Kentucky to celebrate Christmas with us. This year will be even more special with our 8-month-old great-granddaughter in attendance! Christmas is the culmination of our year-long celebration of the family we have been blessed with.”

Yvonne Truhon of Winston-Salem recalls going with her father to select and bring home the Christmas tree.

“We very often spent the Christmas holidays in Pennsylvania, at our grandparents’ summer home. The week before Christmas, Daddy and I would get in the car, and he’d drive us to the farm of a man named Adam Smith.

“Mr. Smith would take us around

his vast (to me) farm, winding through fallow fields and then acres of evergreens, until we spotted the ‘perfect’ tree.

“At that point, Mr. Smith would get out of his truck, take up a chainsaw, and cut down ‘our’ tree right then and there. He would tie it up, put it in the truckbed, and take us back to our car, where he helped Daddy lash the tree to the top of the car.

“Back at the house, Daddy would get the tree into the tree stand and then put on the lights.

“Then it was my turn – I got to put the tinsel and ornaments on the tree, and most important, set up our crèche (Nativity scene) in a place of honor.”

Summerfield Merchants Association (SMA) supports our local businesses and community

To join or for more info, email

SummerfieldMerchants@summerfieldmerchant.com or visit www.summerfieldmerchant.com or Facebook.com/SummerfieldMerchantsAssociation

When Mark and Carol Masters married 20 years ago, they each had their own families which included adult kids and grandkids. Rather than attempting separate Christmas gatherings, the Masters decided to create a blended holiday that would

“On Christmas day, we spend a quiet day together with our own personal tradition of a movie date and then a steak dinner. In the spirit of giving, Mark buys McDonald’s gift cards for the young people working at the theater on Christmas day.

“Every year, the day after Christmas, our adult granddaughters

‘Race Against Hunger’ makes everyone a winner

Photo courtesy of Guilford Backpack Ministry Beth Waterfield (center of photo, holding check, on the left), a volunteer with Guilford Backpack Ministry, accepts a check for $3,800 (plus 400 pounds of food) from Northern Guilford High School PTSA President Kelly Reis (holding check, on the right) with other Backpack Ministry volunteers, PTSA volunteers and Oak Ridge United Methodist Church Pastor Mike Carr (far right) also shown in photo. The check represents proceeds from the PTSA’s “Race Against Hunger,” a 5K and 1-mile fun run held at the high school on Oct. 23. Anyone wishing to donate to Guilford Backpack Ministry may do so online at https://backpackministry.wixsite.com/backpacks or text “ORUMC Backpack” to 73256.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

 5  0 to approve the rezoning of 3.75 of nearly 44 acres owned by Corey and Erin Petty at 6317 U.S. 158. Rezoning the property from agricultural (AG) to general-purpose residential zoning (RS) will allow the couple to create three lots for their relatives to build homes.

Adjacent property owner Mike Smith asked for a description of the houses planned by the family. After learning they would be single-family homes, Smith said he was satisfied with the plans.

 5  0 to approve the rezoning of 2.8 acres on N.C. 150 that contains a Quonset hut, from conditional use business (CU-LB) to conditional zoning business use (CZ-BN).

In July, property owner Lisa Waynick withdrew her initial rezoning request after the town’s Planning Board objected to a wide range of potential commercial uses allowed in the rezoning she was seeking. In response, Waynick’s new application eliminated numerous permitted uses such as a gun or paintball shooting range, a cocktail lounge, a pool hall, a crematorium and a fortune teller.

During a public hearing, Gail Dunham objected to business usage of the property in what she described as a residential area. The tract sits next

to Revolution Academy on N.C. 150 and is located near the Henson Farms subdivision, where Dunham lives, and some other houses.

“We have no idea what they’re going to build,” she said.

In response, David Gilchrist, Waynick’s husband, said “we want the property to be used for the highest and best use.”

DeVaney asked whether the Quonset hut will remain in place, and Waynick answered she hopes a buyer would incorporate the building in development of the property.

Preserving the circa 1940s metal structure isn’t required by town regulations, Whitaker noted.

Scenic corridor text amendment

 5  0 to amend the town’s unified development ordinance (UDO) related to scenic corridor area overlay districts intended to preserve trees along roads through town. The rules also require development guarding against “visual clutter” marring the rural character of roadways.

The corridor extends 1,500 feet from either side of the right of ways of the roads. The corridor along U.S. 220 is so wide that it stretches as far as Summerfield Road, creating unintended consequences for some property owners who live inside of the

corridor, Whitaker said.

As an example, the UDO as written prevents Summerfield Fire District from using metal in construction of a vehicle-repair building at Station 9 at 7400 Summerfield Road – even though the fire station isn’t visible from U.S. 220.

Similarly, town staff earlier rejected the request by a Rhondan Road homeowner to build a metal carport, according to Brad Rentz, the town’s planning manager.

Amending the UDO removed such unintended consequences.

The council discussed and deferred until later other possible amendments to the scenic corridor section of the UDO, including the possibility of narrowing the width of the corridor from 1,500 feet to 750 feet on either side of the right of ways.

In another example, a regulation states that “all existing trees (and) vegetation” in the corridor “shall be preserved.”

By one interpretation, a property owner couldn’t cut down a single tree, putting what Summerfield landowner David Couch described as “a slippery slope” that may represent the taking of a property by government.

Town Attorney Bob Hornik offered a similar assessment, as did property owners Dwayne Crawford, Jane Doggett and Doggett’s daughter, Beth Kaplan.

of Stewart, the design and planning firm hired by Summerfield to plan the southern route of the A&Y Greenway in town.

“We’ve really struggled with Stewart,” said Whitaker, explaining the departure of two project managers at the firm contributed to “a lull” in the project.

Whitaker said he wants to explore terminating the town’s contract, totaling $389,953, with Stewart and hire another firm “to pick up the pieces and carry the ball across the finish line.”

CLOSED SESSION

The council entered a closed session to discuss legal matters, including negotiations to buy real estate. After returning to open session, the council took no action.

COUNCIL BUSINESS

Laughlin school. Mayor Sessoms said he’s continuing to negotiate on behalf of Summerfield to buy the historic Laughlin school. The Summerfield Road property is now the location of the Laughlin Professional Development Center slated for closing by Guilford County Schools. Sessoms didn’t elaborate on talks with county officials.

Municipal water system. Whitaker described as unpromising his discussions with officials in Greensboro, Rockingham County and Reidsville about supplying water for a possible municipal water system in Summerfield. (See related article on FC of this issue.)

Oak Ridge Business Center 8004 Linville Rd, Suite G, Oak Ridge (336) 643-7577 or 1-800-467-8299 info@samanderscpa.com

DEC. 15, 2022 - JAN. 4, 2023

“If I can’t remove a tree, I can’t grade the property,” Couch said. “If I can’t grade the property, I can’t build a building.”

MANAGER’S REPORT

A&Y (Atlantic and Yadkin) Greenway update. Whitaker told the council he’s displeased with the performance

Community survey. DeVaney said some residents have asked her whether the town is the sponsor of a community survey seeking residents’ views about development in Summerfield. The “Let’s Talk Summerfield” mailing was not sponsored by the town; it is for the Villages of Summerfield, the development that David Couch is planning for his 973 acres spanning town, and was an initiative of Couch’s marketing team.

With no further comments, the meeting was adjourned at 10:35 p.m.

Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC

“Who is going to tell me I can’t cut my tree down?” Doggett asked during a public hearing.

GRINS and GRIPES

Delighted or dismayed by something in your community?

Share your thoughts in 40 words or less online: nwobserver.com email: grinsandgripes@nwobserver.com

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

lights, and very well done!



Rody’s Tavern in northwest Greensboro for opening up on a night they are usually closed to host a team night for the Northwest High School football team to help celebrate their great season. We love the community support!



The Santa doppelgänger at a local restaurant who took time out of his dinner to deliver a magical VIP moment to my little girl by visiting our table to personally inform her that she’s on the “good list.” Very cool!



Chris Kepko and Triad Pickleball for bringing this sport to Greensboro. Thanks for the tournaments, lessons, clinics and great fun! I wouldn’t call myself an athlete, but boy, I do love this sport called pickleball!



All the first responders who will be working over the holidays while the rest of us are enjoying time with family and friends. Thank you!



Owners of Gray Gables on N.C. 150 in Summerfield for the time (and expense) you put into decorating your beautiful building this year. I love looking at it when I pass by!

Town of Stokesdale volunteers and everyone who sponsored and participated in the Christmas parade last Saturday, which was the best one yet. What a great small-town event!





The person (or people) who decorates a tree along the A&Y Greenway every Christmas season. Makes me smile whenever I pass it while walking on the trail!

Oak Ridge Special Events Committee members for all their work in organizing Light Up the Night on Dec. 3 – lots of activities, beautiful





The Dollar Generals in Stokesdale for all the trash in their parking lots. Also, gripes to the car lots – we don’t need any more of them, and they are only making our town look worse. 

Greensboro Science Center for omitting Christmas, an important observance to the Christian faith, from this year’s light display – yet there is a menorah. Jesus is the light of the world, and no one can extinguish Him. 

Assistant County Manager Erris Dunston for trying to stop Triad Pickleball from teaching lessons at Bur-Mil Park!

Tracy Williams, attorney

TOWN SEEKS ‘BEST POSSIBLE’ RATE

...continued from p. 2

update our financing plans,” Mayor Ann Schneider said during the meeting.

In a resolution 14 months ago, the council instructed town staff to negotiate a fixed interest rate of less than 3% for a 15-year loan for the park’s development. The new resolution doesn’t specify a maximum rate, reflecting the volatility of rates.

During the meeting earlier this month, Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman asked Anders for a range of possible interest rates. In reply, the finance officer said that “everything I’ve seen has been all over the place.”

Town leaders anticipate that costs for developing Heritage Farm Park will exceed the $3.66 million estimated in the budget for this fiscal year, which started July 1. Plans call for construction of two multi-purpose playing fields, a picnic shelter, restrooms, parking lot, walking trails and a playground on 62 acres on Linville Road behind Town Hall.

Federal pandemic relief funding of $1.66 million and a North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund grant totaling $490,000 will help defray costs. The council will decide whether to cover the remaining costs with a loan, or possibly a combination of borrowing and tapping the town’s

reserve funds.

In an update to the council, Town Manager Bill Bruce said the park design, engineering and county and state permitting have been completed. Last month, the town advertised to seek bids for a general contractor for the project, setting a deadline of Jan. 10 to receive the bids.

Town staff is also pulling together materials to submit to North Carolina’s Local Government Commission, which approves the issuance of debt by municipalities in the state.

Anders is negotiating with Truist and Piedmont Federal banks for financing of the park. Once a general contractor has been selected and project costs have been updated, town staff will negotiate the precise terms of the loan, according to Bruce.

The council will approve loan terms before financing is finalized.

“Both banks have been very good to work with,” Anders told council members. “Hopefully, we’ll be able to come up with a good rate and some good terms.”

OAK RIDGE TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

...continued from p. 9

Special Events Committee. Chair Patti Dmuchowski thanked Courtenay Harton for decorating the entrance signs to Oak Ridge for the holidays. She also expressed her appreciation to town staff, community organizations and volunteers for preparing for the Light Up the Night festivities earlier this month.

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Co-chair John Garrett reported the board would like town staff to consider soliciting public input on the type of playground equipment that will be installed at Heritage Farm Park.

Parks and Recreation Director Terry Lannon suggested that equipment with a farm theme may be appropriate for the playground, Garrett noted.

Planning and Zoning Board. Board member Patrick Fiorentino reported the board recommended last month that the council approve the rezoning request for the Redmon house property. It also recommended the council amend the town’s ordinances to accommodate the regulation of trees, he said. Mountains-to-Sea Trail Committee. Committee member Stephanie Farrell reported that preventive maintenance is planned for sections of the Headwaters Trail northwest of town.

“Overall, it is in really good shape,” she said.

She added a committee volunteer spotted two otters swimming in the water next to the trail.

Oak Ridge Elementary School. Interim Principal Jim Smith reported that ongoing efforts are being made to resolve problems related to parents dropping off their children in the mornings. Homeowners in the Twelve Oaks and Oak Ridge Plantation subdivisions have complained that some parents are speeding and driving on their property, a concern addressed in a recent meeting with officials of Oak Ridge Elementary, Guilford County Schools and the North Carolina Department of Public

Transportation, as well as incoming county commissioner Pat Tillman and Oak Ridge councilman McClellan.

ABC Board. Jimm Barbery, Oak Ridge’s representative on the Triad Municipal ABC Board, reported alcohol sales are up due to the increased availability of liquor.

The town’s ABC store is almost 100% staffed, he said. Separately, an exterminating contractor killed termites eating wooden pallets on which liquor is stored.

Oak Ridge Youth Association. Randy Collins, ORYA’s community relations director, said the organization is seeking volunteers to fill several positions, including fundraising director and e-sports director; it’s also seeking volunteers in facilities, turf and infrastructure management, he said.

COUNCIL COMMENTS

 Sullivan praised the efforts of volunteers serving on town committees and boards.

“We are a wonderful place to live, and the reason for that is everyone’s hard work and our commitment to managed growth,” he said.

 Pittman complimented news coverage by the Northwest Observer, including its recent article highlighting work of the town’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail Committee.

 Kinneman urged motorists to remove valuables from sight and to lock their doors in an effort to reduce thefts from vehicles.

“We can definitely make a dent in this crime by taking some action on our own,” he said.

 Schneider recognized Scout Ansley LeCompte with Troop 219, who attended the meeting to help fulfill part of her badge requirement.

Kinneman, McClellan and Schneider also praised efforts by town staff and volunteers.

Schneider said accomplishments by Oak Ridge have made the town “a real model to other communities. We set the bar pretty high here in Oak Ridge.”

With no further comments, the meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m.

 AUTO SALES & SERVICES

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

CHOICE TIRE AND AUTOMOTIVE. Oil changes, inspections, alignments and general automotive repairs. 1080 US Hwy 66 S, Kernersville, NC. (336) 992-9002 (336) 891-3876 EUROHAUSAUTO.PRO

 HOME CARE NEEDED

Looking for a PERSONAL CAREGIVER for my wife. The position is full-time, and pays $25/hr. The caregiver's work is 5 hours a day, 5 days a week, 10am-3pm, M-F. Anyone who is interested can email me at Gabeferriss82@gmail.com for an interview.

HOME CARE needed M-W-F, 6 hrs. per day. Includes personal care, occasional errands, cooking and light housework. Please call Judy, (336) 402-2112

 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 and winter! I do detailed cleaning. Licensed, bonded, insured and vaccinated. Please call Lisa, (336) 207-0770.

HOME SERVICES

BLISSFUL ART & FRAMING SHOP LOCAL! Framing, gifts, graphic design. 4533 Hwy. 220 N., Summerfi eld. (336) 298-4502

ELECTRICAL

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

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

BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC

Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192

FLOORING / TILE

MONTERO'S HARDWOOD FLOORING

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

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

 EMPLOYMENT

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

DRIVER/MERCHANDISER. Kalo Foods. Part-time, 20+ hrs. Will train. Drive company vehicle. Good driving record required. Local deliveries. (336) 949-4802

PETROSERVE INC., petroleum contractor. Full-time laborer needed. Mon.-Thurs. CDL Class A licensed driver preferred. Spanish speaking a plus. Out-of-town work required. Call Tim Stanley, (336) 669-0621

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

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

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

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

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 experience.” Gary Gellert, serving NC’s Piedmont Triad area. Garygellert@gmail.com, (336) 423-8223

LIGHT HOUSEKEEPER / COOK needed. Live-in situation. Free living quarters. Would occupy upstairs of large home. Would be expected to run errands occasionally, so a car is necessary. Background check a must. Non-smoker. Located in Oak Ridge. If interested, please call (336) 382-4549 and speak to Miles.

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

DECORATING

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

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 DEC. 15, 2022 - JAN. 4, 2023 43

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 DEC. 15, 2022 - JAN. 4, 2023 43

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

L & T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE

"We get you mowing!" Comm./res., all models. 2103 Oak Ridge Rd., Oak Ridge. Call (336) 298-4314, LandTsmallengineservice.com.

GRADING / HAULING

ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING

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

DTW GRADING & HAULING, INC. Offering a sum of aggregates, including but not limited to: fill dirt, stone, asphalt millings, and crushed concrete. We also offer full bobcat services. Driveways, minor clearing, drainage solutions and snow removal. Daniel Wilson, (336) 339-0212

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

E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Driveways, fill dirt, demolition, lot clearing, excavating, 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 residential projects. Owner/Operator Timmy Hart has more than 30 years of grading and equipment experience. Fully licensed and insured. Land clearing, debris removal, driveways, French drains and much more. Call Bobby Lipstreu, (336) 543-7867

Your home services company should be here! Place your classified ad online at www.nwobserver.com

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

LAWNCARE / LANDSCAPING

CM STUMP GRINDING, LLC. Family owned and operated. Commercial/residential. Free quotes! (336) 317-4600 The Northwest Observer Keeping you connected since 1996!

EXTERIOR GREENSCAPES. Lawn maintenance 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. Residential and commercial. (336) 280-8981

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

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

GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE

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

HILL LAWNCARE & OUTDOOR SERVICES

Free est. Call (336) 669-5448

WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC

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

ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE

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

 HOME SERVICES

STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. FREE EST. Fully insured. Topping, pruning and removal. Natural area thinning and cleanup. Oak Ridge. (336) 643-1119.

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

DSL DRAIN SYSTEMS & LANDSCAPING (336) 362-4354

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

MASONRY

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

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

 HOME SERVICES

COLONIAL MASONRY. 40 yrs. exp. Specializing in outdoor living spaces; dry-stack natural stone and flagstone. Let us help you plan your patio, fire pit, fireplace, kitchen –or anything else you would like! Call (336) 949-9019. www.colonialmasonry.com.

MISC. HOME SERVICES/PRODUCTS

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

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

Place your Classified ad online at www.nwobserver.com

PAINTING

& DRYWALL

BEK Paint Co.

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

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

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

PLUMBING

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

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

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.

POOLS

BUILDING

Construction Services, INC

RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

(336) 644-8615

508-5242

Welborn at (336) 399-6619

PRESSURE WASHING

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

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

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

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

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

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

HOME SERVICES

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

AMERICAN BUILDER CONSTRUCTION

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.

ROOFING

BELEW’S CREEK CONSTRUCTION

Residential & Commercial Roofing

DUSTIN CLINARD ROOFING. Shingles, metal, and leak repairs. Call (336) 268-1908 www.5StarROOFINGUSA.com

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

MISC. SERVICES

BOAT N RV STORAGE. $70/$100 monthly. Located on Brigham Rd., Greensboro, near Pleasant Ridge Road. Call (336) 663-3051

(336) 362-6343 belewscreekconstruction.com

PREMIER ROOFING. Commercial/residential. Providing service for all of your roofing needs. Locally owned. Please call (336) 430-9507 for free assessments.

PIANO LESSONS, all ages and levels, Summerfield area. Patti, (336) 298-4181 6705 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale (336) 643-9963 (affiliated with Stokesdale Storage)

PORTABLE WELDING SERVICE. Welding & fabrication services. Call (336) 908-6906

WELDING AND TRAILER REPAIR Call Tim, (336) 402-3869 

MISC. FOR SALE

PERSIMMON PULP & more. At the Old Mill of Guilford on Saturdays, or call (336) 816-3441

SEASONED FIREWOOD. Any size load delivered or you pick up. Steve Newman Tree Service. Call (336) 643-1119

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 DEC. 15, 2022 - JAN. 4, 2023 45 The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 DEC. 15, 2022 - JAN. 4, 2023 45

„ MISC. WANTED

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

„ PETS/ANIMAL SVCS.

FREE blue parakeet with cage. Also three Diamond Doves for sale. Tiny, good with children. $40 for all three. (919) 616-8645

Use SEAL N HEAL® to seal wounds on dogs & cats; has a bitter taste to prevent gnawing, allow healing. Available at Tractor Supply®. www.fleabeacon.com

„ REAL ESTATE

RENTAL NEEDED

NEEDED: ROOM FOR RENT. 64-year-old female, retired and on disability. Access to bath and kitchen. Entry level does not matter. Max. $400/mo. Please call (336) 423-6163

LAND FOR SALE

MADISON PROPER, 8-10 acres zoned for multi-family. Water/sewer hookups at property. Great property for apartments, investor or builder. Call (336) 430-9507 anytime.

VACATION PROPERTY

ACCOUNTING

index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

Summerfield Merchants Association 37

By the Book Accounting 13

Carlotta Lytton, CPA 29

Kimberly Thacker Accounting 29

Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC 40

AUTOMOTIVE SALES / SERVICE

EuroHaus 43

Tire Max 16

BANK / LENDING / INVESTMENTS

Brian Campbell, Truist Mortgage 7

First Citizens Bank 5

BUILDING / REMODELING

CJ Builders Inc. 25

Disney Construction Company..................... 24

Don Mills Builders 19

Old School Home Repair 43

R&K Custom Homes 27

Ray Bullins Construction.................................23

Superior Outdoor Spaces 18

TM Construction Services 45 Walraven Signature Homes 23

CHILDREN’S SERVICES

Guardian Ad Litem 42

CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES

Oak Ridge Chiropractic 12

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

Oak Ridge Historic Preservation 8

DENTAL SERVICES

DeVaney Dentistry 38

Summerfield Family Dentistry 39

EVENTS

TAWCMM – The Intensive 2023 15

FUNERAL SERVICES

Forbis & Dick Funeral Services 13

GROCERIES / SUPPLIES

Southern Foods 2

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES

5 Star Roofing 45

BEK Paint Company ........................................44

Belews Creek Construction 45

Bob Rents, LLC 3

Carlos and Son Painting 44

CharCo Concrete Coatings 44

Dillon Tree Service 21

K&J Homes Services 29

New Garden Landscaping & Nursery 10

Rymack Storage 45

Southern Style Concrete & Landscaping 45 Stokesdale Heating & Air 41

Wilson Seamless Gutters 44

INSURANCE

Employee Benefits Marketplace 29 Gladwell Insurance Agency 33

LEGAL SERVICES

Barbour & Williams Law 41

MEDICAL / HEARING / PT

Aim Hearing & Audiology 35

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist 22

Atrium Health WFB, Summerfield 34

Health Team Advantage 31

LeBauer HealthCare 9

Northwest Pediatrics 4

Novant Health 14

ORTHODONTIC CARE

Olmsted Orthodontics 39

PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS

Northwest Animal Hospital 36

REAL ESTATE

A New Dawn Realty 13

Nicole Gillespie, RE/MAX ..............................28

Smith Marketing, Allen Tate Realtors 23

RESTAURANTS

Bistro 150 3

RETAIL

Blissful Studios & Gallery 29

Bouquet Boutique 20 Moravia Moravian Holiday Store 6 Poppy & Pine 11

YOUTH SPORTS / CAMPS

Oak Ridge Youth Association 38

VACATION RENTAL on Smith Mountain Lake, VA. Only a 2-hour drive from Greensboro! Sleeps 10. Allows dogs. Has fenced yard. Visit vavacationrentals.com, listing #73, Dream Come True, to see pics & get rates and contact info. Due to cancellations, rare openings for June 2023. Weekly only in summer months. 3-night minimum in other months.

Please support our advertisers, and tell them where you saw their ad!



Law enforcement for not doing anything about a huge problem with speeding on N.C. 150, between Williard Road and the intersection at Oak Ridge Elementary. We can barely turn in our driveway safely anymore, not to mention the danger to others.

 Starbucks on N.C. 68 in Oak Ridge for taking so long to finish the new building. It’s been months with still no floor, windows, doors, etc. The Food Lion in Kernersville went up much faster.

 GCS and NGHS for including books in AP class and in the library with obscene and explicit sexual content. NGHS cited the following quote as reasons to retain these books: “... childhood innocence...is detrimental to children’s wellbeing.”

 Stores that advertise sale prices in a flyer, then charge higher prices when you check out. Shoppers, beware!

Outside the



Stokesdale Town Council for even considering purchasing a $1,000 trash can. And shouldn’t the landscaper’s insurance be paying for the one that was destroyed, and not the town?

Editor’s note: At its Nov. 10 meeting the town council did discuss replacing a trash can in the town park which was several years old and had been damaged at some point in the past, likely by a lawnmower.

A motion to replace the trash can with a similar one, at a cost of $1,002.38, including shipping and taxes, failed on a 2-3 vote and council member Jimmy Landreth offered instead to bring a picture of a 40-gallon drum to a future meeting for council approval. In a follow-up email to the council, Councilman Derek Foy responded that the trash can had been damaged for years, and no one on the council or staff knew who had damaged it.

The following reader-submitted GRIPE expresses opinions about state and/ or national topics, and has been separated from the other Grins and Gripes as a courtesy to those who do not want to read others’ opinions on state and/or national political and other non-local topics in a local newspaper.

GRIPES to...

 The reader in NWO’s last issue who took a situation out of context, misinformed readers and raised unfounded (at

least in the context given) concerns over the safety of the COVID vaccine – and to NWO editor for not researching this.

KelliJessup,

Chris

Linda Scha