Northwest Observer / June 15 - 28, 2023

IN THIS ISSUE

Potential de-annexation puts Summerfield in ‘limbo’

Town leaders await possible legislative action as talks with landowner

David Couch are going nowhere, the mayor said

by CHRIS BURRITT

SUMMERFIELD – As talks with landowner David Couch have stalled, Summerfield leaders are waiting to see

whether the state legislature votes to de-annex Couch’s 973 acres in town or tells him to follow the town’s regulations in developing his property.

That’s the assessment of Summerfield Mayor Tim Sessoms, who told the council during its meeting this past Tuesday, June 13, that town leaders and its lobbyists have “had very little communication” with Couch’s team since they met once in March. A series

of letters between the two parties has led to no progress, he said.

“We remain in limbo,” Sessoms said, explaining that Summerfield leaders “are waiting for some response to the letters we’ve written” to Couch. Earlier this week, the developer declined to provide a comment for this article. Both sides have refused to share copies of their correspondence.

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Congratulations to the Class of 2023

Read about these four students and see the list of Summa Cum Laude graduates beginning on page 26.

A few words of advice for the Class of 2023

(Excerpted from “Make Your Bed,” by Admiral William H. McRaven)

Start your day with a task completed (i.e., make your bed) • You can’t go it alone

It’s the size of your heart (not your flippers) that matters

You must dare greatly

Stand up to the bullies

Life’s not fair – drive on Failure can make you stronger

Rise to the occasion

Give people hope

Never, ever quit

Azaleas, peonies or daffodils?

Oak Ridge council members debate appropriate plants for landscaping around the historic Redmon house at the entrance to Town Park

by CHRIS BURRITT

OAK RIDGE – Landscaping for the entrance of Oak Ridge’s Town Park is taking shape, one iris at a time.

After meeting for nearly 2 ½ hours, the council voted unanimously last week to adopt a plan for parking, sidewalks and lighting for the entrance to the park at Linville Road and Lisa Drive. Unsatisfied with a design firm’s initial recommendations for plants, council members suggested specific shrubs and flowers to plant around the historic Redmon house, as part of the

structure’s renovation and expansion into the Farmhouse Community Center.

The council’s special called meeting last Thursday, June 8, offered lessons in landscaping, based upon council members’ gardening expertise and preferences. As members debated around a conference table covered by construction drawings for the park entrance’s master plan, they concurred that the plan recommended by Hill Studio, a Roanoke, Virginia-based design firm, missed the mark.

“There are no peonies,” councilman Spencer Sullivan said. “Where are the azaleas?”

The proposed design places plants too close together and doesn’t incorporate enough of the varieties that tenant farmers living

CELEBRATE THE FOURTH OF JULY WITH

During a special called meeting on June 8, Oak Ridge Town Council members discussed options for specific shrubs and flowers to plant around the historic Redmon house, as part of the structure’s renovation and transition to the Farmhouse Community Center. Members agreed the landscaping plan created by design firm Hill Studio did not incorporate enough of the varieties that tenant farmers living in the circa 1930s house would have grown, such as azaleas (shown in photo) and peonies, and that the plantings should leave enough room around the house for new varieties to be added later, as tenant farmers would have done.

Adobe Stock photo

Earlier this year, Couch, the owner of Summerfield Farms, sought the support of state Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger in de-annexing his property. Twice since last year, the council has denied Couch’s request for an amendment to Summerfield’s development rules that would accommodate his plan to build the town’s first apartments.

Berger urged the two sides to negotiate to end their impasse over higher-density housing. In an interview earlier this week, Sessoms said he recently wrote a letter to Berger, telling him the town is willing to continue talking with Couch’s team.

In his correspondence to Summerfield, Couch has questioned the seriousness of town leaders in negotiations, according to Sessoms. He explained the council doesn’t have the authority

to concede to the developer’s requests without bringing them before town staff, the Planning Board and the council in settings that give the public an opportunity to share their viewpoints.

As an illustration, the mayor said, “we can’t say we’ll approve 400 apartments. It has to go through the process. We cannot take that process away from the public.”

Town leaders are uncertain when the General Assembly plans to adjourn this summer, a decision influenced by the wishes of Berger, a Rockingham County Republican who represents Summerfield in the Senate’s District 26.

In an email earlier this week, Summerfield Town Manager Scott Whitaker said

Summerfield council approves Martin House rezoning

by CHRIS BURRITT

SUMMERFIELD – Summerfield Town Council voted unanimously this past Tuesday, June 13, to rezone the historic Martin house property, clearing the way for the renovation of the two-story structure for a new business to be named Martin’s Mercantile.

...continued from p. 1 ...continued

The name “is going to

the town’s lobbyists informed him the legislature plans to break for the Fourth of July and resume work later in the month.

Berger “can stretch out the session as long as he likes,” Sessoms said. “I walk around every day with my phone in my pocket, knowing that gun can go off at any second.”

Sessoms envisions two scenarios for de-annexation in Summerfield: It wins legislative support or “the legislature tells Mr. Couch that they don’t think he’s exhausted his options” in negotiating with town leaders.

If the General Assembly adjourns

without dealing with de-annexation in Summerfield, it may revisit the issue in future sessions, according to Sessoms. “This is a gun that’s always going to be pointed at us,” he said.

Aside from the threat of de-annexation, the mayor said numerous bills pending in the legislature would give developers more freedom to build in municipalities statewide, in some cases at higher densities than allowed by local zoning rules.

“One of these bills could be just as bad as the de-annexation,” Sessoms said.

File photo

Northwest Greensboro resident Lauren Cox received approval for her rezoning request earlier this week, and hopes to close on the purchase of the historic Martin house at the corner of N.C. 150 and Summerfield Road in late July. Soon afterward she’ll begin the renovation process, with plans to open as “Martin’s Mercantile” next spring or summer.

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your QUESTIONS

The restoration of this 1896 house on Summerfield Road in Summerfield will include a 2,000-squarefoot addition in the back, as well as a garage with an apartment and a swimming pool.

I noticed an old house on Summerfield Road in Summerfield’s historic district has been gutted and a portion of the back has been torn down. Can you find out what the plans are for this house?

Johnathon Landwehrmann, owner of JL Construction, is a Greensboro-based contractor who is handling the renovation of the house at 7702 Summerfield

Road. He explained that the owner of the property (who doesn’t want to be identified at this point) plans “to pay homage to the history” in restoring the house, dating back to 1896.

The renovation project started about three months ago with the removal of the back portion of the house that had been added to the original two-story, four-room structure. The rear consisted of a small living room and what Landwehrmann believes may have been the original kitchen separate from the house.

In the 19th century, detached kitchens were fairly common as a way to keep the heat and smells from cooking

out of the main house. It also reduced the risk of the house catching fire if there were an accidental blaze in the kitchen.

Landwehrmann said he plans to complete the project by late next summer, assuming there are no unexpected delays.

“It’s a slow process when you’re dealing with older homes,” he said in an interview earlier this week.

The renovation and expansion will create four bedrooms and 5 ½ bathrooms, he said.

The gutting of the original structure exposed the heavy wood timbers, held up by field stones. Earlier this month, a brick mason rebuilt the foundation with bricks to provide adequate support, Landwehrmann told us.

The renovation will restore the original rooms – two upstairs and two downstairs – and the double-flue chimneys on either end of the house. Downstairs there will be a bedroom and living room and upstairs there will be two more bedrooms, the contractor said.

A two-story addition in the rear will add more than 2,000 square feet for the kitchen, living room, bedroom, bathrooms, an office and a recreation room.

The owner is also building a garage with an apartment and a swimming pool on the 3.4 acres which stretches from Summerfield Road to U.S. 220, Landwehrmann said.

The demolition of a chicken house may provide lumber for decorative moldings and cabinets in the house, he added.

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

“Let us keep looking to Jesus. He is the one who started this journey of faith. And He is the one who completes the journey of faith.” Hebrews

COUNCIL APPROVES REZONING

...continued from p. 3

be a good umbrella for all the different things we’re going to do,” future owner Lauren Cox said in an interview after the council voted to rezone the nearly half-acre lot at 4118 Oak Ridge Road (N.C. 150).

The zoning went from single-family residential (RS-30) to the conditional zoning neighborhood business district (CZ-NB) to accommodate Cox’s plan to sell food, starting with to-go orders and coffee, and host do-it-yourself workshops.

Carolina (PNC) last year to find a buyer. Now that the property has been rezoned, Cox plans to complete the purchase in late July.

The sale price is $85,000, with $75,000 going to the town and $10,000 to PNC for marketing the property and negotiating the sale, according to Town Manager Scott Whitaker.

Cox, who lives in northwestern Greensboro, said she envisions opening for business next spring or summer, after renovating the house. She said she’s working with an engineer to determine the location for the water well and septic field.

78th Annual Horse Show & Rodeo

The property at the intersection of Highway 150 and Summerfield Road is owned by the town of Summerfield, which hired Preservation North

Raleigh-based PNC is also trying to sell the historic Gordon Hardware building across Summerfield Road from the Martin house. The property is under contract to prospective buyers, with the closing of the sale possible in late August, Whitaker said.

AZALEAS, PEONIES, DAFFODILS?

in the circa 1930s house would have grown, according to members. They want plants to bloom from early spring through fall and avoid blocking the view of the house’s stone foundation.

“I know we’re not going to get Grandma’s garden,” council member Martha Pittman said. But, she added, “I would like to see more of the old-fashioned plants.”

The planting of trees, shrubs and other plants is projected to cost $22,105, 12.2% of the $180,823.50 estimated cost for beautifying the park’s entrance.

Other expenses include a new parking lot along Lisa Drive, sidewalks and lighting. Those plans will go to the town’s Planning and Zoning Board and Historical Preservation Commission for

...continued from p. 2

consideration and approval.

The selection of plants remains a work in progress. Town Manager Bill Bruce told the council he plans to circle back to Hill Studio to incorporate council members’ suggestions in a revised landscaping plan.

The appropriate landscaping “is in the eyes of the beholder,” Bruce said.

Members agreed that plantings should be spaced far enough apart so they don’t overcrowd each other when they reach maturity. Leaving space around the house would create the opportunity for planting new varieties later, as tenant families did when neighbors gave them plants for their gardens.

Sullivan said he’d prefer the plantings to appear to be spaced randomly, rather than laid out formally.

“We can always add more,” Schneider said. Added Pittman, “we need room for creativity a few years down the road.”

“Co ee is going to be big,” Cox said. “We want people to be able to come and gather and stay.”

SUMMERFIELD town council

June 13 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

as reported by CHRIS BURRITT

SUMMERFIELD – Mayor Tim

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

Albert Benshoff, a lawyer in the Brough Law Firm, attended the meeting in place of Bob Hornik, the

WHAT they voted on, and HOW they voted:

firm’s lawyer assigned to Summerfield, who was absent from the meeting.

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

CONSENT AGENDA

 5  0 to approve the consent agenda after the council agreed with Councilman Reece Walker’s request to remove a closed session from the

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 June 13 meeting. Mayor Tim Sessoms was present, but in Summerfield the mayor votes only to break a tie.

 5  0: Approve the consent agenda after removing a closed session from the meeting agenda

 5  0: Approve the rezoning of the historic Martin house property at 4118 Oak Ridge Road (N.C.150) from single-family residential (RS-30) to the conditional zoning neighborhood business district (CZ-NB)

 5  0: Deny a staff request to rename Ayers Lane, a gravel road owned by the town leading from Medearis Street to the recently opened dog park

 5  0: Approve the town’s $4.73 million budget that leaves the property tax rate unchanged at 2.75 cents per $100 of property valuation

meeting agenda. One of the closedsession topics dealt with the town’s opposition to de-annexation efforts by landowner David Couch. Later in the meeting, Sessoms said the two sides had made no progress in negotiations. (See related article on FC.)

After that, the consent agenda included the approval of open session and closed session minutes for the May 9 and May 30 meetings.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Fishing Derby. The town will hold its annual Fishing Derby at the Summerfield Community Park lake from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. this coming Saturday, June 17. All of the spots for participants have been taken, Town Manager Scott Whitaker said. Music in the Park. A performance by the Special Occasion Band will kick off the town’s summer concert series from 6:30 - 9 p.m. this Saturday at Summerfield Community Park’s amphitheater.

Town Hall closing. Town offices will be closed Tuesday, July 4, for the Independence Day holiday.

Board vacancy. The town is seeking applications from residents who would like to serve as an alternate member on the Board of Adjustment.

Founders’ Day kudos. Whitaker expressed the town’s appreciation to volunteers, town staff, the council and other organizations and individuals who contributed to the success of last month’s Founders’ Day celebration.

PUBLIC SAFETY

Summerfield Fire District. The department responded to 110 calls in May; they included 11 fire-related calls, 61 EMS-related calls and 38 other calls. The staff installed nine child safety seats.

Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s District 1 office responded to 345 calls for service in Summerfield last month, resulting in 24 formal case reports.

Deputies responded to two separate incidents – one on Rebecca Drive and the other on Spotswood Circle –involving the firing of guns. These were isolated incidents among people who knew each other, not a threat to the general public, according to the written report.

An incident on Barman Court initially reported as a kidnapping proved to be unfounded when the missing child was found riding her bicycle on a trail behind her home.

The sheriff’s office took reports of two motor vehicle break-ins in the

Thanks to John and Amanda Mazza of Summerfield Wealth Advisors (left) and Cyndi and Rod Brown of Summerfield Family Chiropractic for hosting our SMA meeting on June 6!

An association of professionals supporting each other and our community

Henson Forest subdivision and on Whispering Pines Drive. Both vehicles were unlocked.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

Martin House rezoning

 5  0 to approve the rezoning of the historic Martin house property at 4118 Oak Ridge Road (N.C. 150) from single-family residential (RS-30) to the conditional zoning neighborhood business district (CZ-NB).

Rezoning applicant Lauren Cox spoke during the public hearing and shared her plans to buy the property, restore the house and operate a business there. (See related article on p. 3.)

Street renaming

 5  0 to deny town staff’s request to rename Ayers Lane, a gravel road owned by the town leading from Medearis Street to the recently opened dog park.

Town staff recommended renaming the road “Medearis Trail,” to signify its proximity to the future Medearis Street trailhead. However, Dee Hall, the town’s finance officer, said she had talked to Julie Davidson, the daughter of Jimmy and Sue Beeson who live on property on Medearis Street at Ayers Lane.

Davidson requested the road’s

name remain unchanged, since it recognizes the contributions of the Ayers family to Summerfield and, she said, her mother belongs to the Ayers family.

No one spoke during the public hearing.

Next fiscal year’s budget

 5  0 to approve Summerfield’s $4.73 million budget that leaves the property tax rate unchanged at 2.75 cents per $100 of property valuation. Anticipated revenues, $2.13 million in grants and $1 million from the town’s fund balance are projected to cover total expenses.

Funded by grants and federal pandemic relief, the development of Bandera Farms Park is estimated to cost $1.5 million, which is nearly half of planned capital expenditures totaling $3.04 million.

Later in the meeting, Whitaker said the town is seeking requests for qualifications from companies that want to prepare final engineering and construction documents for the 120-acre park on Bunch Road at Interstate 73. Completion of the horsebackriding and walking park is slated for September 2025, according to the request for qualifications posted on the town’s website.

During the public hearing for the budget, Don Wendelken urged the council to consider specifying how much the town should keep in its fund balance.

Later, Hall explained that years ago the council adopted a policy to maintain a fund balance that amounts to at least 30% of general fund expenditures. That exceeds the 8% minimum recommended by the state’s Local Government Commission, she said.

As of June 30, 2022, the town’s fund balance totaled $6.43 million, or 329% of expenditures. Summerfield

has consistently maintained the highest fund balance percent among North Carolina municipalities with populations of 10,000 to 49,999 people, according to Hall.

DeVaney questioned whether the town wants to retain ownership and continue incurring repair, insurance and expenses for a used green Ford truck after buying a new Dodge Ram truck earlier this year.

Whitaker said the used truck proved useful hauling signs, traffic cones and other bulky items during Founders’ Day last month, while staff

STOKESDALE town council used the new truck to carry boxes.

Martin house and Gordon Hardware building. Both properties are under contract to prospective buyers. (See related article on p. 3.)

June 8 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

as reported by PATTI STOKES

Jeff Goard, the town’s parks and recreation director, “likes having a beater truck,” Hall said. “He wants to keep the green one.”

DeVaney also questioned Summerfield’s appropriation to the county’s Animal Control Services, which Whitaker estimated will cost the town about $34,000 next fiscal year. He said the town would spend more if it were to set up its own animal control department.

MANAGER’S REPORT

Historic properties. Whitaker provided an update about efforts by Preservation North Carolina to sell the historic

Greenway surveying. A crew is conducting a new survey of the modified route of the Atlantic and Yadkin Greenway’s southern section, which is in the vicinity of the mobile home park on Summerfield Road, Whitaker said.

COUNCIL COMMENTS

No July meeting. The council plans no regular meeting in July, Sessoms said. If necessary, it can schedule a special called meeting before the regular monthly meeting Aug. 8.

Alcohol sales. Sessoms urged residents who drink alcohol to patronize Summerfield’s ABC store. The town shares in ABC profits.

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:52 p.m.

Mayor Pro Tem Derek Foy called the regularly scheduled monthly council meeting to order at 7 p.m. with council members Tim Jones, Jim Rigsbee and Jimmy Landreth present; Mayor Mike Crawford was absent.

Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Pastor Ed McKinney of Stokesdale United Methodist Church led the opening prayer. The meeting agenda was adopted with no changes.

Foy then referenced a recent local television news report that included a mistake about the U.S. 158 widening project, which covers a 20-mile stretch from Winston-Salem to U.S. 220 in Guilford County. Deputy Clerk Robbie Wagoner followed up with NCDOT and confirmed Section C, the northern

Virtual Care from Your Home

section of the proposed widening project which runs through Stokesdale, has not yet been funded and is still subject to approval.

“So, that may not happen,” Wagoner said.

He added that NCDOT has determined another proposed project (R-5823) – the widening of N.C. 68 at Stokesdale – is not warranted based on current traffic counts. A revised design plan is under review that could include roundabouts at the intersection of Ellisboro Road and Belews Creek Road or additional turn lanes; or a roundabout at N.C. 68 and Lauren Road; or realignment of Sylvania and Lemons Loop with a possible roundabout. NCDOT plans to hold a public

“It is nice to have two vehicles in di ering conditions,” he explained.

meeting with public officials by late summer or early fall.

 4

0 to approve minutes from the Aug. 11, 2022 council meeting.

PUBLIC SAFETY

Fire Department. Stokesdale Fire Chief Todd Gauldin reported the department responded to 80 calls in May: 47 were medical-related, seven were fire-related and 26 were miscellaneous.

On a safety note, Gauldin advised everyone to make sure charcoal used for outdoor grilling is completely cool before disposing of it; also, be careful when lighting gas grills. Visit the department’s Facebook page for other tips related to grilling.

Sheriff’s Office. Sgt. Ryan Seals of Guilford County Sheriff’s Office reported in writing that the District 1 office responded to 204 calls in Stokesdale in May, resulting in 20 formal calls. Warrants were obtained on a suspect for a March 15 residential break-in on Colgate Road.

On May 28, a resident in the 8200 block of Branson Road reported the catalytic converter was stolen from her vehicle while it was parked outside her home.

“We strongly encourage residents and businesses to put surveillance cameras up along their driveways and exterior of their homes if you can afford to do so to assist us in solving such cases,” Seals wrote.

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

Town Clerk Dale Martin reported on the number of water meters installed, applications for transfer of water service, meters on hold, and work orders related to the town’s municipal water system, and said 756 water bills were sent out in May. Staff also processed fifty-three 811 calls.

Last month there were 25 shelter rentals and four rentals of the community room in Town Hall.

Required reports were submitted to DEQ (Department of Environmental Quality) by the specified deadlines,

including the annual Consumer Confidence Report which is posted on the town’s website.

Contracts were executed with the town’s new audit firm, C. Randolph, CPA; with Yates Construction to address erosion problems in Town Park; and with CJ Builders to oversee the construction of and installation of surface materials for the outdoor basketball and pickleball courts in the town park.

Staff also worked to secure grant funds, obtained quotes for internet and telephone service at Town Hall, and assisted with drafting town administrator and town clerk job descriptions.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Park Improvement Committee. Chair Tee Stephenson said the boundary survey of the 9.88 acres adjoining Town Park has been completed, a plat was submitted and a deed had been filed.

The contract with CJ Builders has been signed, so construction of the basketball and pickleball courts in the town park will soon be underway.

With decisions relating to playground equipment and basketball and pickleball courts finalized, Stephenson said the committee will now move onto other town park projects to take advantage of the federal ARPA funds the town received. Nature trails will be the next focus.

FINANCE REPORTS

Finance Officer Kim Thacker gave financial reports for the general fund and water enterprise accounts as of May 31. Assets in the general fund, including accounts receivable, total $3,662,615.

PUBLIC HEARING FY2023-24 Operating Budget

Citizen input. Speaking on behalf of Stokesdale Parks and Recreation’s board of directors, Jordan Balmforth, SP&R president, presented a request for the town to provide matching funds up to $50,000 to cover the cost of what he described as “critical facility

upgrades” to the softball and baseball fields at Stokesdale Community Park, which is owned and operated by SP&R. Balmforth said needed upgrades include light poles for the baseball field and softball field, new LED lights for the softball field and reinstallation of LED lights on the baseball field.

“We humbly ask this, having never come to the town asking for funds,” he said, assuring the town council that requesting funds would not be a recurring event. “ e program itself is self-sustaining, thanks to the community and everybody else, from volunteers, sponsorships and fundraising. is is a unique and urgent collaboration that we’re hoping to accomplish for the safety of the kids.”

Balmforth explained the fields’ lighting poles were installed around 1980. Over the last 40+ years the beams have eroded from the weather, been damaged by animals, and are dangerously leaning over; additionally, wiring for the lighting has disintegrated. The life expectancy of the new poles is about 50 years, he said.

Upon request by the council, Balmforth presented a resolution drafted and approved by SP&R’s board of directors to officially request the town provide matching funds and outline how the funds would be used.

When asked about SP&R’s sources of revenue, Balmforth said participants in the nonprofit’s baseball, softball, basketball and soccer programs pay $105 to $125 per season, which goes to cover the cost of uniforms, game officiating, gym rental, soccer field rental, maintenance, mowing, insurance, taxes, and equipment. Sponsorships for soccer, baseball, softball and

... continued on p. 10

basketball programs combined bring in about $10,000 a year.

Concession sales were the No. 1 revenue source for SP&R last year. Significant infrastructure upgrades were made in the last several years, Balmforth said, and more are planned for this summer. Responding to Foy’s question about how many baseball and softball games are played on the fields, he said there are two baseball and two softball games a night, five nights a week, and the season lasts about six months.

„ With an average of 12 members on each baseball and softball team, Foy said that came to 96 kids playing five nights a week; factoring in parents, grandparents, siblings and others, that meant about 300 Stokesdale citizens – or roughly 5% of the town’s population – were on the ballfields at Stokesdale Community Park each night for six months.

All baseball and softball programs require lights.

When learning SP&R’s program draws about 410 volunteers, council members said they were impressed, and Balmforth said before moving to the area he had never seen anything like the level of support the Stokesdale community shows for youth recreational programs.

„ “I have always found that ballfield to be a nucleus of the community,” council member Tim Jones said, adding he appreciated hearing how the community comes together to maintain and operate Stokesdale Community Park. “My one reservation circles back to this being a one-time request. I don’t want parents or kids to make a beeline to this council when they need support…”

„ Jones then asked Balmforth how much in corporate donations SP&R

Peace of mind all summer Tested for even the hottest days

receives each year and he said about $5,000, with about the same amount coming from small, local businesses.

“If we support this, it’s a big step for the Town of Stokesdale, based on our history. It’s a big chunk of money for this small town,” Jones said.

“Everything goes back into the program, and it is a complete effort,” Balmforth responded. “The vast majority of our support comes from the folks here.”

„ Councilman Jimmy Landreth said the ballpark had been a big part of his life growing up and he wanted to keep it separate from the town. He added that under normal circumstances he wouldn’t favor providing funds for the private park, especially if it meant taking money out of reserves. However, he acknowledged the town does have federal grant money, and Foy confirmed a $725,000 ARPA grant is available.

Balmforth then presented the last three years of financial statements, which confirm SP&R has clean financial records and stability.

“We want this to be a full partnership,” he told council members, saying the total cost of the upgrades is about $103,000, and so far one-fourth of it has been completed and paid for by SP&R.

Council then discussed the possibility of Stokesdale Community Park ever being sold, and if that were to occur, whether the town could establish some sort of legal assurance that it would be reimbursed for whatever it may invest in the upgrades. Town Attorney Chuck Winfree confirmed there were legal options that could be put in place to protect the town’s investment.

In 2021 the program was in jeopardy of folding, and Balmforth said the board has since worked hard to assure long-term financial sustainability.

“There’s a stewardship that goes along with this, and long after we’re gone there has to be a succession plan in place with protections,” he agreed.

„ Eileen Thierey spoke next and said,

“The future of this town is the children. If we have COVID money, that’s from our federal taxes, so I don’t see it impinging on the town’s budget… Think of the kids who can benefit from this… To be saying this is going to be setting a precedent, who cares?”

BUDGET ORDINANCE

Consideration of FY2023-24 Operating Budget. Thacker said changes to the draft budget had been made during each budget workshop, and she had made those changes on the working document on her laptop. She and the town clerk worked together on it, and she said when the budget was printed out, she closed her laptop and only later discovered the budget before the council at this meetng was not the correct, revised budget.

“I apologize to the council and the citizens,” she said.

Council members thanked Thacker for her admission.

Foy then said that since the councl’s last budget workshop May 4, he had spoken with Town Clerk Dale Martin and she had expressed interest in stepping down as town clerk and focusing on codification of the town’s ordinances.

“With Ms. Martin transitioning next year out of the town clerk role, her hours would be reduced, so the amount we budgeted would not be as much,” Foy said. “Also, in my opinion, I do not think we need the administrative assistant position, but I do see a need for another full-time deputy clerk. So, taking all this into account, I think council needs to relook at the budget because I don’t think it captures what we need to do from a staff perspective.”

As for SP&R’s request, Foy said he was in favor of using the town’s ARPA funds for park improvements.

“This council has worked its tail off to get other improvements to

the town’s water system,” he said. “I acknowledge we don’t own Stokesdale Community Park, and there’s no doubt if government became involved in managing or owning that park we wouldn’t have done as good a job. So, when I look at the request (from the nonprofit), I see we do have grant money to assist them, it wouldn’t use any of the town’s reserves, and the baseball and softball programs would be in jeopardy (if the poles and lighting are not replaced). I see an organization committed to raising money. The grant would have a general positive impact on the infrastructure. Public monies must be spent wisely for public purposes, and in my opinion, this is quite a good public purpose.”

Foy added that he appreciated that the organization plans to raise $25,000 more of what is needed, as opposed to asking the council for the whole amount.

With that, he motioned to continue the council’s budget discussion to a special called meeting on Thursday, June 15,* at 7 p.m. After discussion, Foy withdrew that motion and motioned to hold a budget workshop on June 15, followed by a special called meeting to continue the public hearing for the budget and potentially adopt the budget on June 21 at 7 p.m.

 4  0 to schedule the budget workshop on

June 15 and continue the budget public hearing on June 21.

 4

 0 to include a $50,000 grant to Stokesdale Parks & Rec in the draft budget, with the stipulation that it would be used only for lighting and light poles at Stokesdale Community Park.

*NOTE: After the council meeting, the budget workshop initially scheduled for Thursday, June 15, was rescheduled to Wednesday, June 14. The June 21 special called meeting remains on schedule as discussed.

Coverage of this council meeting will continue in our June 29 issue.

OAK RIDGE town council

June 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 and Martha Pittman present. Councilman Spencer Sullivan was absent.

Paul Kress, a member of the town’s Finance Committee, offered the invocation, which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

AGENDA

 4  0 to remove from the agenda the council’s consideration of the master landscaping plan for the entrance to Town Park at Linville Road and Lisa Drive.

The council scheduled a special called meeting Thursday, June 8, to discuss the project. (See follow-up on the June 8 meeting in News Briefs.)

PROCLAMATION & PRESENTATION

Rev. James A. Webster. A proclamation read by Schneider expressed the town’s condolences to the family of Rev. James A. Webster and to Oak Ridge First Baptist Church following the pastor’s death on May 23.

Webster, 76, served as pastor of the church for 39 years and also taught classes there. A native of Rockingham County, Webster served in the U.S. Air Force for four years and he earned several degrees, including a master’s in

divinity and a doctorate in theology.

“During his long and productive life, he demonstrated in countless ways his dedication and deep love for his family, the churches he served, and everyone around him, leaving a deep void with his passing,” Schneider said.

Several members of the First Baptist congregation attended the presentation. The mayor presented a copy of the proclamation to Webster’s widow, Brenda, and their son, Derrick.

Canine Capers awards. Chelsea Young and Lori Lucion, members of the Canine Capers Planning Committee, presented checks to three groups that participated in the annual fundraiser on April 29.

The donations, totaling nearly $4,000, went to two animal rescue groups, Stokesdale-based Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network and Ruff Love Rescue in Thomasville, and to North Star Bloodhounds, a search and rescue organization based in Wentworth whose dogs and handlers assist law enforcement and emergency responders.

PUBLIC SAFETY

Sheriff’s Office. Sgt. S. Joseph reported the sheriff’s District 1 office responded to 203 calls in Oak Ridge in May, resulting in 23 formal cases.

Joseph applauded neighbors who provided security camera footage

Mayor Ann Schneider, Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman and council members George McClellan and Martha Pittman voted on the following items during the June 1 meeting. Councilman Spencer Sullivan was absent.

 3  1: Adopt (Kinneman opposed) Oak Ridge’s budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year

 4  0: Amend the town’s code of ordinances to reduce the number of extraterritorial jurisdiction members on the Planning and Zoning Board

 4  0: Reappoint Caroline Ruch to the Historic Preservation Commission

 4  0: Approve the hiring of FORVIS, an accounting firm, to provide audit services to Oak Ridge in the fiscal year that ends June 30

to investigators that led to the identification of two men who stole an unsecured lawn mower from a residence. The suspects were arrested and charged with felony habitual larceny, Joseph said.

Oak Ridge Fire Department. Engineer Justin Owens reported the department responded to 81 calls in May; firefighters and staff obtained 672 hours of training.

On a safety note, Owens urged people to drink plenty of water when out in the heat.

PUBLIC HEARINGS Budget, FY2023-24

 3  1 to adopt the town’s budget for the fiscal year that starts July 1. It appropriates $5.36 million for development of Heritage Farm Park and another $2.92 million for erecting an elevated water storage tank behind Town Hall, along with engineering of the tank and installing a 3.5-mile waterline from Forsyth County to Oak Ridge.

The property tax rate remains unchanged at 8 cents per $100 of property valuation. Expenses will be covered by state and federal grants, a $3 million bank loan for the park, and the town’s available funds.

After spending on capital projects, the town’s reserves are projected to exceed $2 million at the end of the 2023-24 fiscal year, according to Town Manager Bill Bruce.

Staff members are eligible for merit pay increases of as much as 5%.

Kinneman cast what he called “a protest vote” against adopting the budget because he disapproved of $100-per-month stipend raises for council members. He urged the council

to remove the increases, which total $6,000 over 12 months.

“The budget is a responsible budget,” Finance Committee Chair John Jenkins said. “There is no fluff in it.”

During a public hearing, members of several town committees voiced support for the budget.

Higher spending reflects “worthwhile projects for our growing town,” Special Events Committee Chair Patti Dmuchowski said.

The spending plan “will preserve and enhance the attributes of town that make it such a desirable place,” Finance Committee member Stuart Mease wrote in a statement read by fellow committee member Paul Kress.

No one spoke against the spending plan. However, Michael Smith urged the council to amend the town’s process for evaluating and approving capital projects; he recommended the council pause for 45 days its consideration of projects in which the lowest contractor bid exceeds the projected cost of the project by 30% or more.

In a follow-up interview, Smith cited the council’s March 30 approval of the renovation of the historic Redmon house as the cause of his concern.

By a 3-2 vote, the council approved refurbishing and expanding the house into the Farmhouse Community Center after the lowest bid of $630,000 was $175,000, or 38.5% higher, than the $455,000 the council had appropriated for the project.

During the meeting in March, residents weren’t allowed to speak about the project before the council voted to approve it.

We forgot to run this photo of the

Medical Group team with their new advertiser intro in our June 1 issue. The new practice in Kernersville was scheduled to open June 5 and provides medical care for people of all ages, from newborn to geriatric patients. To schedule an appointment with either Chase Michaels or Ashley Michaels, call (336) 443-9316.

In honor of National Flag Day on June 15, members of the local Guilford Battle Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) presented Camping World/RV in Colfax with a certificate of recognition, Friday, June 9, for the massive flag that waves all year round, night and day, over the business located just off I-40, near the Sandy Ridge Road exit. It’s difficult to appreciate the flag’s massive size from a distance, until you learn that an average threebedroom home could fit within its woven borders! The flag is 3,200 square feet and made here in the USA.

Shown in photo, L to R: Lee Skopelitits (Camping World/RV), NSDAR members Karen Powell and Laura Mortensen, Franz Selemschek (Camping World/RV), NSDAR members Nancy Olson and Kathy Fair, and Landon Hunter (Camping World/RV).

Photo courtesy of New Hope Medical Group OOPS!

New Hope

Photo courtesy of Guilford Battle Chapter of NSDAR

courtesy of Brooks Home and Farm

Young entrepreneur sets sights on healthy eating and creating community

by ANNETTE JOYCE

Eli Forehand is not your typical 19-year-old. As the founder of Brooks Home and Farm and a host of other endeavors, this enterprising young man has already accomplished more than many people twice his age.

Brooks Home and Farm and the other Brooks ventures including Brooks Wholesale Plants and Produce, Brooks Logistics, Brooks Agricultural Land Lease Holdings and Brooks Warehousing and Distribution Company evolved from Forehand’s desire to offer farmto-table groceries and other local products while creating a network of small North Carolina businesses that can help one another grow and prosper.

These days, Forehand is busy establishing his company’s base location in a building at the intersection of N.C. 68 and U.S. 158 in Stokesdale. To kick things off, Brooks Home and Farm opened an outdoor operation in April that has been offering a selection of plants and hanging baskets – but that’s just the beginning.

Once renovations on the building are complete, it will be home to a retail store that sells locally grown produce and some home goods to the community, a warehouse and a commercial distribution center that offers wholesale produce to restaurants and other retail stores.

With remodeling underway, Forehand is working to bring his entire vision to fruition.

“This is going to be a different type

of grocery experience, very communityoriented and educationally based,” Forehand said.

For instance, there will be a greenhouse where classes can be offered on topics such as making hanging baskets, carving pumpkins and creating wreaths. The greenhouse will also have picnic tables, where customers will have an enjoyable place to eat

 Brooks Home and Farm is committed to providing the healthiest farm-to-table produce available.

 Through a partnership with a local strawberry farmer, Brooks Home and Farm offers fresh strawberries from April until the first frost in October or November.

when food trucks are on site – something that Forehand plans to make a frequent occurrence.

In addition, Forehand has been talking with the local elementary schools about “getting some sort of garden clubs in place.” He also has plans to bring in local farmers, giving community members an opportunity to get to know the people who supply their food.

Before deciding to create Brooks Home and Farm, Forehand had planned to attend film school in Los Angeles and was focused on earning money for his college fund. His change in direction got its roots when he was 14 and took a job with a farmer who had a space at Piedmont Triad Farmers Market in Colfax. Within two years, Forehand was managing the space.

It was in 2020 that Forehand, a third-generation family farmer, launched Brooks Home and Farm and began selling the pumpkins and mums he grew

with his grandfather to family and friends at the farmers market. When he wasn’t at the market, he threw the pumpkins into the back of his pickup truck and set up at various locations including his high school, Northwest Guilford, and local shopping centers.

Along the way, he lost interest in pursuing a film career and realized his passion was providing people with farm-fresh, local produce and products and connecting community and small businesses with each other.

Within a year, Forehand expanded his products and services to include candles which he sold at local flea markets and

added commercial and residential decorating clients for fall and holiday displays that incorporated his crops and local artisan pieces.

Then in 2022, after his 85-year-old grandfather’s health took a turn for the worse, Forehand stepped up alongside his father, Frank Forehand, and took over the family farm. Together, they worked on creating a network of local North Carolina farmers and producers to bring the communities they called home the cleanest and healthiest products available.

“Our first partner, Mabe’s Berry Farm (in Walnut Cove), is the state’s only farm able to successfully grow strawberries all summer long,” Forehand said. “Through this exclusive partnership, Brooks is able to offer freshly picked strawberries from

April until the first frost in October or November.

In just five years, Forehand and his team have established “brick and mortar” locations in Stokesdale and Gastonia and they have space at Piedmont Triad Farmers Market in Colfax and the Western North Carolina Farmers Market in Asheville, April through September.

Forehand’s success can be attributed to several factors.

First, he is doing what he absolutely loves and is applying his understanding of technology to produce what he calls “modern world farming.”

And, he has lots of new ideas and isn’t afraid to try them out.

He also is committed to buying locally and supporting other farms and small businesses.

That’s where his warehouse and distribution businesses come into play. He explained that a lot of small businesses store inventory in their garages or dining rooms and desperately need extra space, but can’t afford to rent an

entire warehouse. His company is able to rent them warehouse space on a much smaller, therefore more affordable scale.

Although Forehand has already learned a lot just through experience, he’s also been intent on soaking up as much knowledge as possible from his classes in high school and reading about other people who have been successful in business.

“In high school, I took all the business and marketing courses I could take,” he said. “I also read about (successful entrepreneurs such as) Warren Buffet and Jeff Bezos.”

In addition, he’s made it his mission to seek out people within his community who have been successful in business and study what they’ve done right and how he might apply it to his own business strategies.

At this point, Forehand is completely focused on his businesses and his free time is nearly nonexistent. He said he doesn’t require a lot of sleep, which is fortunate, because following his ambitions easily fills up his hours.

“I have a lot I want to do in my life and time is limited,” he said.

Forehand, and took over the family farm. farmers and producers

Photos courtesy of Brooks Home and Farm

I noticed that signs for the new smash burger restaurant and the pizzeria in Oak Ridge Commons were installed several weeks ago – will

they be opening soon?

“We’re not there yet,” owner Pepe Silva, who also owns Rio Grande in Oak Ridge Commons, told us recently. “It’s in the process, and we’re still trying to figure out some things,” he added, explaining

that renovating the two restaurant spaces came with challenges beyond those he would have faced had he been building them from the ground up. Added to that has been the long wait time for specialized grills and a

Is there any update on Shaw Farms

Shopping Center opening at the corner of Spencer Dixon Road and N.C. 150 in northern Greensboro?

I thought it was scheduled for groundbreaking in late April.

Earlier this week we spoke with Tom James, who represents the shopping

pizza oven to be delivered and installed, as well as final inspections and staff training.

Silva said it’s still too early to announce definite opening dates, but he hopes they will be “soon.”

center’s developer, T. Cooper James & Associates. James told us his company is in discussions with several different grocers, but has not finalized an agreement with one yet. Plans for the initial phase of the 30-acre shopping center call for a grocer anchor tenant, other retail businesses and an outparcel fronting N.C. 150. Construction will get underway once a grocer has signed on.

“This area is one of the fastestgrowing areas in the county, and it’s an underserved area,” James said.

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

A 120,000- to 130,000-square-foot shopping center at the corner of Spencer Dixon Road and N.C. 150 in northern Greensboro is set to get underway once a grocer anchor tenant has been secured.

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

Joey’s Burger Bar and Pizzeria Gusto are close to opening in Oak Ridge Commons shopping center, but opening dates for the two

restaurants

are still not definite.

Ray Bullins Construction Co.

Take a look at current real estate magazines or HGTV catalogs, and you’ll get a glimpse of the latest trends and fashions in the homebuilding industry.

“One trend we’ve noticed in our area is that there’s a lot more interest in quieter, more rural settings than in the past,” said Ray Bullins, who co-owns the award-winning Ray Bullins Construction Company, Inc., along with his wife, Lisa.

“In the last two years, we have worked with over half a dozen clients to build their custom house on privately owned rural acreage,” Ray said. “One way we have dealt with that challenge is by finding ways to expand the radius of the areas in which we are able to confidently manage projects while maintaining efficiency,” he added.

Reflecting the ongoing high demand for custom-built homes in northwest Guilford County, Ray and his team have projects underway in the Angel’s Landing, North Ridge, and Haynes Meadows developments. They’re also building homes on several privately owned lots outside of subdivisions and anticipate they’ll have a growing number of projects within Rockingham County in the future.

“There is a lot of growth expected along the U.S. 220 North corridor as people begin looking farther out from the larger cities in search of more affordable options,” Ray explained.

As evidence of that, the company recently began its second project just across the Guilford County line in Provi-

dence Glen, a new neighborhood underway in Madison.

“Another trend we’re seeing is that people are spending a lot more time independently researching and exploring their options, not just for the oven or for the light fixtures, but also for the builder they want to work with,” Bullins said.

That trend is what Bullins said led his son and project manager, Mitch, to push for the company’s new website that launched recently.

“These days even our ‘old-school’ clients are emailing me designs they found on Pinterest or a link to a certain fixture they want for their house,” Mitch said. “I wanted to make sure people would get a good feel for our aesthetic and quality of work when they’re researching potential builders for their future project.”

The aesthetic showcased in homes featured on the company’s website is largely credited to Lisa Bullins, who serves as the team’s head office manager and lead designer. Ray said Lisa plays an integral role in developing the company’s sense of style and design and in keeping up with the latest developments in the design world.

With over 30 years in the industry

Mitch Bullins (center) with his parents, Lisa and Ray Bullins, at Ray Bullins Construction Co., Inc.

Photos courtesy of Ray Bullins Construction Co.

(L-R) Lisa, Mitch and Ray Bullins team up to build the beautiful homes their clients dream of.

and 200 homes completed, Ray has seen countless trends rise to prominence and fall from favor, sometimes more than once.

“One thing that doesn’t really change for us is the people.

‘Home’ is a special place that is more than just the walls that make it up,” he said. “We know it’s special to have the opportunity to help realize that experi-

ence of home for someone, and it’s why I’m still passionate about building homes after doing it for so many years.”

•

The Greensboro-based T. Cooper James & Associates was founded in 1980 by James’s father, Cooper James, who is still active in the business.

“We’re not an out-of-towner,” James said. “We’re local, and we envision ourselves as long-term owners of this shopping center.”

Shaw Farms Shopping Center is named after the Shaw family, former property owners of the shopping center site. They also sold adjacent property to Guilford County Schools where Northern Guilford High School was built and opened in January 2008.

More businesses coming to downtown Stokesdale

by ANNETTE JOYCE

STOKESDALE – Thanks to a growing number of businesses setting up shop, people have even more reasons these days to venture to downtown Stokesdale. In an interview earlier this week with Matt Moorefield, who owns many of the storefronts in the building across from Stokesdale Fire Department, he shared that several new businesses will be opening up there within the next few months.

While he said he wasn’t quite ready to announce details about two of the businesses soon to open, Moorefield is excited to announce that Fisherman’s Cove Bait, Tackle and More is expanding and moving from its current location on N.C. 68 in Stokesdale to a space on the downtown’s main strip.

Owner Craig Gateway, his father, Larry, and his son, Hunter, are avid fishermen who decided to open the freshwater fishing store about two years ago

in the Oliver Diesel and Auto Repair building. Business has grown exponentially since then – so much so that Craig’s wife, Jamie, and daughter, Madison, recently joined the retail operation, turning it into a true family affair.

The new location for Fisherman’s Cove will have an expanded line of custom and vintage crankbait, lures and other fine tackle. In addition, the store will offer clothing and accessories including such popular brands as AFTCO, Huk, East Coast Waterfowl, Wiley X and Costa. There will also be a selection of boating electronics for sale.

“Our goal is to always be bringing in great products and strive to be your favorite place for your fishing needs,” Craig said.

He added that he and his family are looking forward to opening at their new location on Aug. 1, and they invite everyone to stop by and say hello.

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

Fisherman’s Cove Bait, Tackle and More is one of three businesses planning to open up in this building in downtown Stokesdale over the next few months.

District 1 Sheriff ’s Offi ce

ASSAULT/DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE

May 29 | Law enforcement officers responded to a reported assault involving a physical altercation in the 8500 block of Parkchester Place in Oak Ridge (near Linville Road).

May 31 | A 38-year-old male was arrested in the 6300 block of River Hills Drive in northwest Greensboro (near Old Oak Ridge Road) for assault on a female.

June 1 | Officers responded to a reported assault in the 7100 block of Ellison Road in Stokesdale (off U.S. 158).

June 3 | Officers responded to a reported domestic disturbance in the 4000 block of Brynwood Drive in Colfax (off Leabourne Road).

June 7 | Officers responded to a reported aggravated assault involving a motor vehicle at Circle K gas station in Colfax.

June 11 | A 24-year-old male was arrested in the 4200 block of Evangeline Drive in northwest Greensboro (near Horse Pen Creek Road) for assault on a female.

COMMUNICATING THREATS

June 2 | A resident of the 8500 block of Fieldstream Drive in Stokesdale (off

N.C. 65) reported a known suspect threatened her.

June 5 | A resident of the 2100 block of Scalesville Road in Summerfield reported a known suspect threatened her via harassing phone calls.

June 5 | A resident of the 7100 block of Bronco Lane in Summerfield (off N.C. 150) reported a known suspect threatened her.

DRUGS

June 5 | During a traffic stop in the 1200 block of N.C. 68 N/Alcorn Road in Oak Ridge, officers seized 1.9 grams of marijuana.

FOUND/LOST PROPERTY

June 4 | Officers responded to a report of an Apple iPhone 6S found at Summerfield Community Center.

June 6 | A resident of the 8200 block of William Wallace Drive in Summerfield (near Scalesville Road) reported she lost her driver’s license.

FRAUD

May 31 | A resident of the 8500 block of Adkins Road in Colfax reported a fraud incident.

June 8 | A resident of the 7600 block of Strawberry Road in Summerfield reported that between May 15 and June 8 an unknown suspect used his identification info to spend a total of $5,713.34.

THEFT

May 29 | An employee of A Sharper Image Complete Home Care Inc. in Summerfield reported that between May 24 and May 29 an unknown suspect stole a trailer tag worth $28.

May 30 | An employee of Exxon gas station on U.S. 220 in Summerfield reported an unknown suspect stole a propane tank worth $50.

May 31 | A resident of the 6900 block of Summerfield Road reported an unknown suspect pried open her front door and once inside, stole $1,500 worth of jewelry.

June 1 | An employee of Sacks

Surveying & Mapping in northwest Greensboro reported that between May 15 and June 1 an unknown suspect stole a trailer worth $4,000.

June 2 | A resident of the 7800 block of Cedar Point Drive in Summerfield (off Strawberry Road) reported that between May 19 and June 2 an unknown suspect stole her diamond and sapphire ring worth $5,000.

June 5 | A construction company employee reported that between June 2 and June 5 an unknown suspect stole a red/gray Takeuchi skid steer worth $40,000 from a construction site in the 2000 block of Dock Ridge Drive in Stokesdale (near Belews Creek Road).

June 7 | A resident of the 3000 block of Steepleton Colony Court in Greensboro (near Bur-Mil Park off U.S. 220 N) reported that between June 1 and June 7 an unknown suspect entered the home through an unlocked door and stole $7,000 in cash and 15 Hydrocodone pills.

VANDALISM

June 1 | A resident of the 4100 block of Bienvenue Drive in northwest Greensboro (off Pleasant Ridge Road) reported a known suspect threatened her with a weapon and caused $1,200 worth of damage to two vehicles and a trailer.

June 5 | Two people at Richardson Taylor Preserve in northern Greensboro reported an unknown suspect broke into their vehicles but didn’t steal anything.

30

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Northwest Guilford: Summa Cum Laude graduates

Of the 496 Class of 2023 graduates, the following 81 graduates had a weighted GPA of 4.5 or higher:

Ali Al-Qaq

Nicholas Alecse

Faith Allred

Swetha Anand

Rayyan Arshad

Ashley Baklarz

Charlotte Berry

Prakriti Bhattarai

Avyukth Bhattu

Sylas Boris

Smith Brown

Hannah Byon

Anna Copple

Elizabeth Degnon

Ava DeLellis

Caitlyn Dixon

Alaina Doss

Alex Eiben

Rachel Elliott

Bilal Eltohami

Audra Farrar

Grace Fei

Jillian Fuchs

Grace Garner

Kelsey Gartner

Anna Gatewood

Oliver Geng

Alexander Gomez

Adam Gordy

Annlee Grayson

Lauren Hall

James Harbaugh

Isabella Haulter

Lydia Heflin

Amanda Hess

Dylan Hirko

Jenna Hirvonen

Peyton Hoffmeyer

Sophia Kawalec

Samantha Keene

Julia Key

Jooye Kim

Shanmukha Kota

Liam Leak

Do Heon Lee

Kaley Lesperance

Robert Lichtenstein

Eden Lieske

Marisa Mai

Matthew Malak

Camilla Maldonado

Lucas McClellan

Grant McKenzie

Ismail Megri

Caitlyn Miller

Isabella Owens

Anastasia Parker

Emma Penizotto

Tyson Phelps

Rayna Poudyal

Shashwat Prabhakar

Natalie Quinlan

Monica Rashkov

Jenna Scheponik

Kerry Shi

Ryder Shue

Sophia Sizer

Lauren Soukup

Charlotte Spurr

William Stickler

Harsh Surti

Keegan Trahan

Peyton Tucker

Sheldon Ulmer

Ashley Vega-Rogel

Owen Vescio

Ashley Wan

Sumner Wilson

Alex Wong

Katherine Woodell

Darby Woyahn

by PATTI STOKES

Rayyan Arshad says he wasn’t focused on being at the very top of his graduating class, rather he just wanted to academically challenge himself in high school. He graduated last week with a 4.8 GPA, and will attend UNC-Chapel Hill in August. He’ll study biology and be on a pre-med track, but he’s undecided as to exactly where that will lead him – the only thing he’s certain of at this point is that in his future profession he wants to be helping people.

academic-based clubs/teams at Northwest, including Quiz Bowl, Science Olympiad and the Math Club.

It was through volunteering at the Islamic Center of the Triad’s food bank that Rayyan said he discovered the rewards of helping others.

Rayyan Arshad

“I didn’t realize before that how much I enjoy being able to help other people, and that’s one of the reasons I am considering going into medicine,” he said.

In his valedictorian speech at Northwest’s graduation ceremony on June 9, Rayyan focused on a quote from the author Kurt Vonnegut: “Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you’ll look back and realize they were the big things.”

by PATTI STOKES

Science classes have been among his favorites in high school, and although he excelled in them, he admits physics was “pretty tough.”

As a dual enrolled student, he took classes both at Northwest and at GTCC. When there was time between classes, he could often be found in the library studying.

Besides his classwork, Rayyan said he enjoyed participating in several

“I think this quote encapsulates our high school experience by reminding us about what truly mattered, and also offers insightful advice for the future: to live in the moment and enjoy the journey instead of fixating on the destination,” he said.

Acknowledging the effects of COVID, which turned the world around them upside down in the spring of his freshman year, Rayyan told his

...continued on p. 39

Lauren

Soukup

As a high school freshman, Lauren Soukup said she didn’t envision graduating as salutatorian of Northwest’s Class of 2023, comprised of almost 500 students. Still, her academic achievements placed her at the top and she’s now looking forward to attending UNC-Chapel Hill in August to study biology and genetics. Eventually, she hopes to earn a Ph.D. in genetics.

“I have always been fascinated by the genetic codes that make us think and look like we do, and I want to learn as much as possible about them,” she said.

Biology and chemistry were among her favorite classes in high school, but she said she was a “big fan of most all my classes.” She enjoyed solving complex math problems, and said she also liked her English classes – especially analyzing the material she read.

Like most young people, Lauren said she enjoys hanging out with

friends. But she also values the solitude she finds in the natural world, and hiking, whether with someone or alone, is a favorite pastime.

“Being out in nature is such a calming experience,” she said.

She also finds reading and art to be calming, and she said she paints and draws almost every day.

To stay physically active, she played lacrosse for two years in high school, and field hockey all four years.

“It was great to do something physical, get my mind off everything else and be around people,” she said. “I really enjoyed the shared passion and sense of community we had as a team.”

For the last five years Lauren has volunteered at the farm where she took horseback riding lessons. There, she teaches kids not only how to ride horses, but also about farm life and where food comes from.

“It was fantastic to see them outside and not on their electronics,” she said.

On most weekends she can be found working at New Garden Bagel Co. on New Garden Road, where she said she was treated so much like family when she went to work

...continued on p. 39

Youth Sync

Northern Guilford: Summa Cum Laude graduates

Of the 322 Class of 2023 graduates, the following 37 graduates had a weighted GPA of 4.5 or higher:

John “Jack” Alexander Griffin

Noor Houda Ahmidouch

Walter Edward Lutz

Grace Kimberly Triplett

Lydia Kim

Reid Philip Teoh

Johnathan Connor Howell

Abigail MaKarra Lawson

Megan Elizabeth Mascia

Kylie Brianne Myers

Carmen Maria Wallace

Lily Kate Wilson

Luke Antonin Shafer

Raylee Laurel Summers

Ayden Joseph Jersey

Nesiem Lucy Nida

Lily Pattison Price

Thomas Wade Cash

Ruth Joy Augustine

Northern Guilford VALEDICTORIAN

by PATTI STOKES

By the end of Jack Griffin’s junior year, he knew he was academically at, or very close to the top of his class.

him to take higher level math and physics classes at a 4-year university, first UNC-G and then at N.C. State, becoming the first student in GCS to do so.

And, he took those college classes while working as an astrophysics researcher for a professor at UNC-G.

McKenna Grace Stovall

Madeline Grace Sides

Lucas William Tabler

Emma Josephine Clothier

Emma Caroline Soucy

Emma Grace Church

Ashley Rose Tritschler

Michaiah Le-Arielle Bewry

Preston Dylon Wrisley

Jadyn Elizabeth Newsome

Sophia Claire Hernandez

Natalie Ann Alkinburgh

Benjamin Wallace Pratt

Olivia Caroline Ribando

Megan Elizabeth Abbot

Meghan Li-Anne Maynard

Soumya Pannala

Rachel Catherine Piersall

Northern Guilford SALUTATORIAN

by PATTI STOKES

picking up donated food from Lowes Foods, driving the items back to a church where the backpacks were filled with food, and then helping deliver them.

Jack Griffin

“But it wasn’t a goal –it happened as a result of other goals I have,” he said. “My goals were to advance in the math and sciences, not to be class valedictorian.”

Describing himself as a “big astrophysics guy,” Jack said he has loved math and physics for as long as he can remember, and even as a kid he was drawn to books, TV shows and YouTube videos about astrophysics. It was the TV show “Cosmos” that he said especially inspired his love for physics.

That love was so intense that in 10th grade he worked with his principal and Guilford County Schools to allow

“I’m just fascinated by physics,” he said. “I definitely want to continue research in college. Also, right now at my job we are incorporating machine learning, or artificial intelligence, in our physics research.” He looks forward to learning more about that when he attends Stanford University in California this August, where he said he’s “excited to have a new experience in a different place.”

Besides his course studies and research job, Jack also enjoys playing golf, lifting weights – and rowing. He stands 6 feet, 7 inches, and said his sister’s rowing coach encouraged him to take up the sport about a year ago. He

Noor Ahmidouch

Noor Ahmidouch credits her sister, who is nine years older and also graduated from Northern High School, with playing an instrumental role in her life and with providing academic and personal guidance throughout her high school years.

“Nobody had a greater effect on me than she did,” Noor said. “She was my tutor, counselor, and devoted so much time to helping me.”

In high school Noor said she particularly enjoyed her math and science classes, as well as sociology and geology – and she found a public speaking class to be “super helpful.”

She valued her role as volunteer chair of Northern’s Backpack Buddies program, which entailed regularly

“I coordinated with school counselors at various schools, which took a lot of time,” she said. But she also found time to volunteer and to work at Greensboro Science Center, perform microbiology research at NC A&T, and work for Guilford County Schools as a math tutor for elementary students.

“I loved tutoring,” Noor said, adding that she plans to do it again this summer.

Besides being on the varsity track team for two years, she also participated in Science Olympiad, the Beta Club, was a Nighthawk ambassador, a student rep on Northern’s School Improvement Team, and served as president of National Honor Society.

And she founded a nonprofit called “Magical Meerkat,” which sells crocheted animals and clay animal

mark your calendar

SATURDAY, JUNE 17

 Music in the Park | The Town of Summerfield will host a Music in the Park event June 17 at Summerfield Community Park Amphitheater, 5404 Centerfield Road. Special Occasion Band will be playing beach music, oldies and Top 40 songs from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket; Taco Bros food truck and Kona Ice will be selling refreshments. Parking available at Summerfield Community Park or Medearis Street parking lot.

JUNE 19–23

 Vacation Bible School | Living Water Baptist Church at 9516 W. Market St. in Colfax will host VBS for kids age 3+ as well as adults, from Monday, June 19, to Friday, June 23, 6 to 8 p.m. each night. Light dinner will be provided from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Visit www.lwbctriad.org to learn more or register. Gospel Baptist Church at 5945 N. Church St. in northern Greensboro will also host VBS June 19–23, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. each night, for kids age 3+ and adults. Visit www.gospelbc.org to learn more or to register.

TUESDAY, JUNE 20

 Kiwanis Club | Kiwanis Club of Northwest Guilford, a nonprofit focused on projects relating to children in our community, will meet June 20, starting at 12 noon at Bill’s Pizza, 1431 N.C. 68 in Oak Ridge. More info: nwgkiwanis@gmail.com.

 Cruise-In | JPC Monroe will sponsor a parade of muscle cars, classic cars, and more on June 20, from about 4:30 p.m. to dusk at Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center (weather permitting). The monthly cruise-in is complemented by live music and car-related raffle prizes. To participate, just show up and you will be directed to a parking spot.

 Northwest Guilford VFW | Northwest Guilford VFW invites veterans and individuals who have served overseas in a conflict to join VFW Post #7999 for their monthly meeting June 20, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Summerfield Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road. More info: Andy Schlosser, (336) 456-2199, or Rick Dunlap, (336) 601-0941.

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

 Food pantry | Good Samaritan Ministries’ food pantry in Stokesdale will open for those in need of food on June 24, 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.

MONDAY, JUNE 26

 Lions Club | Oak Ridge Lions Club will meet June 26 in the Oak Ridge Room, 2205 Oak Ridge Road (next to Bistro 150). Come at 6 p.m. to socialize and order dinner or a beverage if you would like; the business meeting runs from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. More info: Frank Kelleher, president, (336) 327-7786 or frankxk95@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, JUNE 29

 Town Council meeting | Oak Ridge Town Council will hold its monthly council meeting on June 29, one week earlier than the usual first-Thursday-of-the-month schedule to avoid conflicts over the week of July 4. As always, the meeting will start at 7 p.m. and be held in Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road. For more info or a meeting agenda, visit www.oakridgenc.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 30

 Murder mystery fundraiser | Summerfield Stage Company invites the community to a fun-filled murder mystery fundraiser June 30, starting at 7 p.m. at Summerfield Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road. Light refreshments will be provided. Suggested donation is $10 per person. The event is limited to about 40 guests. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the event will last about one hour. For details and/or to purchase tickets, visit www.facebook.com/summerfieldstage.

us raise them to be fine adults!

„ Jamie, our mail carrier in Oak Ridge. She’s always so kind and does a great job! We’re lucky to have her.

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„ Grayson McDonald, who recently pitched a seven-inning, 80-mph pitch, no-hitter (5-0) in game 3 to help Wesleyan Christian Academy in High Point win the NCISAA 4A State Baseball Championship. Way to go Trojans – what a great season!

„ The property to be developed as Heritage Farm Park. The natural beauty and peace you have provided has been treasured. The deer, wildlife and other solace seekers will miss you dearly. Thank you for the time we had.

„ Councilman John Doggett for helping Summerfield save money by volunteering to mow some of the town’s fields.

„ Retiring Summerfield Elementary teachers Karen Carter, Karen Harris, David Layton and Kim Shepard-Jones for your years of service, love and devotion to our children. You helped

Outside the …

„ People, especially local news anchors, who mispronounce the word “veteran.” It’s pronounced “vet-e-ran,” not “ve-tran!”

„ Owners of squatted trucks. They are not only unsafe to operate on the roads, but have absolutely no purpose. Owners want them as loud as possible, making them a nuisance.

„ Lowes Foods in Oak Ridge for the large promotional Kit Kat display at the checkout lines, in front of competing products, that reads it “supports black youth.” White youth is apparently out of luck. How racist.

„ People who blow their nose at the table. Not only is it rude and impolite, but it is also disgusting!

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

GRINS to...

„ The Northwest Observer for printing contrary opinions during the Coronavirus pandemic. Mark

Zuckerberg now admits Facebook censored posts that ended up being “debatable or true.” It leaked from a lab – and the “vaccines” are neither safe nor effective.

GRIPES to...

„ Those who want to blame everything on the police. If you reach back into your car, if you try to run over an officer, guess what? Something bad is going to happen to you. Stop listening to MSBNC and CNN.

„ Our legislature, for deciding to provide subsidies for private schools. Should families making $250,000 a year get a $5,000-per-year, per-child subsidy? Where have the fiscal conservatives gone?

„ The state GOP for censuring Sen. Thom Tillis for putting the country’s best interest ahead of the GOP’s best interest. It’s a clear message to independents that the GOP is against bipartisanship at a time when we need more of it.

hopes to make the rowing team at Stanford. In his sports as well as other areas of his life, he enjoys diving into the physics of it all, and learning about how exercise and nutrition impact the body.

Additionally, he’s volunteered with Special Olympic golfers and with N.C. Search & Rescue, where he has helped do search and rescue and study the statistics behind it.

For his college essay, Jack wrote about how when he was young, his dream job was to be an astronaut.

“But they don’t recruit you if you’re over 6 feet 3 inches,” he said. “Now I can feel I am discovering amazing things about our universe without going into space.”

Jack expressed his gratitude

to two of his counselors at Northern, Ms. Knight and Ms. Deaton.

“They have gone above and beyond to help me. I don’t think I could have juggled everything without them,” he said.

In his valedictorian speech, he spoke about the value of failure and offered several examples of personal “failures” he had experienced.

“Those failures didn’t just test my persistence, they’ve also strengthened my passions and formed my identity, giving my endeavors meaning and purpose… As you continue to grow beyond the scope of high school, remember to seek out failure, and I know that you will find success,” he told his classmates.

figurines she’s made on Etsy, with profits going to World Wildlife Fund.

Noor’s salutatorian speech focused on being authentic.

“… Being yourself surpasses the garments we wear or the trends social media pressures us to follow; it rests in the way we acknowledge those that shaped us and our adherence to our own values and beliefs,” she said.

Of the many who have helped shape her, she included Mr. Galiotti, with whom she worked closely on the School Improvement Team; Leslie Deaton, a Northern guidance counselor who she said “continuously exemplifies what it means to be a strong woman;” and Mr. Bah, who she said “genuinely supported me from when I first stepped into his class as

a lost 14-year-old to now, when he allows me to work alongside him.”

As the child of immigrant parents from Northern Africa, Noor credited her parents for giving up everything they had to give her everything she has. She closed with a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson: “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to change you is the biggest accomplishment.”

Noor will head to Wake Forest University this August and study environmental science. As a leadership and character scholar, her tuition, room and board, and other college-related expenses will be paid, and she’ll be embedded in a leadership and character program throughout her four years of college.

That drew criticism that taxpayers weren’t given the chance to express their views publicly about the higher-than-expected costs before the council’s vote.

“A 30% or more increase is a material change in any project,” Smith told the council at its June 1 meeting. “And proper representation requires that those paying for the project be given the opportunity” to express their opinions.

Council members praised the Finance Committee and town staff for their work on the budget, described by McClellan as “extremely responsible.”

Even though he opposed increasing the stipend pay increase for council members, Kinneman said “the rest of the budget is a fabulous budget. We are accomplishing great things.”

Acknowledging the budget is “ambitious,” Pittman said, “Taken as a whole, does it provide what Oak Ridge residents want and need now and provide for future needs in a fiscally responsible way? I believe that it does.”

Schneider described the budget as “the definition of good governance,” with “deep and well informed” support from taxpayers. “Our work in Oak Ridge is thoughtful and it’s conservative in its principles,” she said.

Jacob Binder, a rising junior at Northwest Guilford High School, said he hopes higher costs associated with capital projects decrease in future years. “We cannot allow the size of this year’s budget to become the new normal,” he said.

Text amendment

 4  0 to amend the town’s code of ordinances to reduce the number of extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) members on the Planning and Zoning (P&Z) Board from two to one.

Earlier, the P&Z board voted unanimously to recommend the council approve the amendment, which is based on a population decrease in the ETJ due to voluntary annexations from the outlying area into the town limits.

MANAGER’S REPORT Board reappointment

 4  0 to reappoint Caroline Ruch to the Historic Preservation Commission. Heritage Farm Park update. June 1 marked the date for Bar Construction Co. to start construction of Heritage Farm Park, Bruce said.

“No trespassing” signs are posted at the entrance of the gravel driveway on Scoggins Road leading to what had been a temporary parking area for walkers on the property, and are also posted at various places off limits to people during the projected 15 months of construction.

People can park in the Town Hall parking lot to reach the trail around the property, Bruce said.

N.C. 68/150 improvements. Duke Energy contractors are relocating utilities at intersections on N.C. 68 and 150, signaling the start of state plans to improve traffic flow and safety in Oak Ridge’s commercial district, according to Bruce.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation plans to start road

improvements early next year, he said. Deputy clerk kudos. Bruce congratulated deputy town clerk Ashley Royal for receiving certified municipal clerk status from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.

FINANCIAL UPDATE

 4  0 to approve the hiring of FORVIS, an accounting firm, to provide audit services to Oak Ridge in the fiscal year that ends June 30. The firm is charging $23,040 for its services, plus $6,000 for writing the financial statements.

COMMUNITY UPDATE

Historical Preservation Commission. Commission member Barbara Engel reported that Chair Debbie Shoenfeld and Vice Chair Caroline Ruch are proofreading a book the commission plans to publish about historical properties in Oak Ridge. Mountains-to-Sea Trail Committee. Pittman reported the committee will hold a workday on Wednesday, June 21. More details can be found on the MST Committee’s Facebook page.

Special Events Committee. Chair Patti Dmuchowski reported the committee raised $14,250 in donations in May for Veterans Honor Green. That brings total contributions to $211,209.24 – including future matching funds from the town –for the veterans’ site planned for Heritage Farm Park. The recently revised fundraising goal is $250,000.

Tree Committee. Committee member John Browning said the board has reviewed the master landscaping plan for the entrance to Town Park and recommends that native trees be planted as part of the area’s landscaping. Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Co-Chair John Garrett reported the first sponsored concert in the Music in the Park series in Town Park on May 13 drew about 1,000 people. The unexpectedly big crowd caused parking problems that Garrett said the committee plans to resolve.

For the first time this year, four of the six monthly concerts through Oct. 14 have sponsors that help pay for more widely known bands. The sponsored concerts also offer beer and wine for sale and numerous food trucks. Water Advisory Committee. Chair Jim Harton said planning for construction of the

elevated water storage tank is advancing.

Oak Ridge is still awaiting the finalization of an agreement with Winston-Salem/ Forsyth County Utilities to supply water to the town, he said. Once that’s nailed down, the town will seek permitting by state regulators, a process that may take several weeks or longer.

Once those two steps have been completed, the town will seek bids from contractors. Harton predicted that construction of the tank will take about a year.

The town plans to fill the tank initially with well water from Heritage Farm Park. Several years down the road, a line would carry water from Kernersville along N.C. 150 to supply the tank.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Scholarship winner. Oak Ridge Fire Department announced that Northwest Guilford High School graduating senior Logan Bryant was awarded a $2,500 Strength and Honor scholarship from a fund established and endowed by the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Andrew David Russoli.

The fund honors the memory of Russoli, a U.S. Marine who died in combat in Iraq. He had hoped to join Oak Ridge Fire Department after ending his military service.

Logan will attend Appalachian State University, where she plans to study health care management, according to Sam Anders, Oak Ridge assistant fire chief.

COUNCIL COMMENTS

„ McClellan announced he plans to run for re-election in the Nov. 7 election.

„ Kinneman urged people to donate blood in local blood drives.

„ Pittman congratulated students graduating from high school and college, as well as students moving from grade to grade and to new schools.

„ Schneider urged residents to visit council members participating in dropin hours at Town Hall from 8:30-10 a.m. next Thursday, June 22.

The mayor said the council will hold its next regular meeting Thursday, June 29, instead of July 6, the first Thursday of the month, to avoid conflicts during the week of the Fourth of July.

With no further comments, the meeting was adjourned at 9:06 p.m.

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 AUTO SALES & SERVICES

 EMPLOYMENT

WEBSTER & SONS PLUMBING. Hiring experienced service plumbers. Vacation and holiday pay. Truck provided. Please call (336) 992-2503

 YARD SALES

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

 EDUCATIONAL SERVICE

GUILFORD COUNTY elementary school teacher available for tutoring during the summer. 1st-4th grade math; 1st-8th grade reading. Caleb Morgan, (336) 280-1561

 EMPLOYMENT

EDWARDS & MILLS PLUMBING in Greensboro is hiring helpers and plumbers. Please contact us at (336) 299-6309, or come by 107 South Walnut Circle, Greensboro, to fill out an application.

NOW HIRING full-time or part-time for local landscaping company. Part-time must have consistent set days to work. Experience with running commercial mowers, weed-eaters, edgers, etc., is a plus. Must be willing to show up on time and work. Located in Kernersville, close to Oak Ridge. $15-16/hr. starting pay.

Text Jim at (336) 588-9456 for more info. Hiring? www.nwobserver.com

MULTI-HOUSEHOLD yard sale. Saturday, June 17, 8am-1pm. 7605 Keating Drive, Oak Ridge. Loads of furniture for sale.

FIRST EVER YARD SALE. Sat., June 17, 8am-2pm. 118 Honey Road, Stokesdale. Tools, cameras, old coins, original framed paintings, art, furniture, old silver settings, free stuff.

GARAGE/MOVING SALE. Fri., June 23, & Sat., June 24; 7am-3pm. 5408 Horse Trail Road, Summerfield.

 HOME SERVICES

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

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

CLEANING

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

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

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MONTERO'S HARDWOOD FLOORING

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HILL LAWNCARE & OUTDOOR SERVICES

Free est. Call (336) 669-5448

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MASONRY

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AMERICAN BUILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC. Remodeling/repairs/decks. Any size job. Short wait. (336) 225-7478

 HOME SERVICES

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

ROOFING

Roofing, Gutters, Leaf Guards Oak Ridge Based. Free Quotes.

(336) 310-4133

WWW.VILLAGEROOFS.COM

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

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Lifetime shingle and metal roofing. We finance. Free estimates. Since 1979. (336) 362-6343.

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REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

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

We DISASSEMBLE and RECONSTRUCT old log buildings, cabins and tobacco barns. If you have a log structure and don’t want it, we will remove it for you! If you want to relocate it, we can do that too! We also construct pole barns/buildings. Call (336) 430-9507 anytime.

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

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION

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

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

continued on p. 38

 HOME SERVICES

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

 MISC. SERVICES

 MISC. FOR SALE

2005 STRATOS 170 FISH-N-SKI with 115 HP Johnson outboard and trailer. Runs great. Trolling motor, fish finder, convertible top, SS prop, ski bar, much more. $7,000. (336) 202-2765

DINING/BREAKFAST TABLE. Round 48" diameter, 29" tall. Like new, one small nick on edge, blonde wood, heavy construction. May be oak. $275, obo. (336) 643-5038

The Northwest Observer Covering your community since 1996!

locally owned & operated

6705 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale (336) 643-9963

(affiliated with Stokesdale Storage)

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

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

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

 MISC. FOR SALE

BATTING CAGE, 15' x 70' with a "C" screen for underhand/front toss. Some hanging hardware included. $350. Call/text Scott at (336) 253-5240

 MISC. WANTED

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

 PETS/ANIMAL SVCS.

AKC LAB PUPPIES. 2 blonde males. Both parents on site. Will be wormed and given 1st shot. $200 non-refundable cash deposit and remaining $500 at pickup on June 24. Contact Renee’, (336) 549-0705

The Northwest Observer reaches over 12,000 mailboxes

SEASONED FIREWOOD. $90/pickup truck load, delivered & stacked. (336) 253-7615

SPLIT FIREWOOD. $100 per truck bed load, or will price per your desired amount of wood. Please call Mark, (336) 577-5395

For sale: Set of BOSE 901 speakers and equalizer. $250, negotiable. Excellent condition. Also, Ryobi 40-volt battery mower, two batteries and charger. $225, like new. Call (336) 327-4042

 MISC. WANTED

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

Wanted: FARM EQUIPMENT to buy. All kinds. Please call (336) 430-9507

PEYTON'S PET SITTING. Daytime, dropin and overnight care provided by a CPRcertified veterinary student. Booking now for Aug.-Dec. peytonspetcare@gmail.com

 REAL ESTATE

HOMES FOR RENT

EXECUTIVE TOWN HOME RENTAL in Summerfield. 2,700 square feet. One year old. Available July 1. (336) 706-2572

2BD/1BA DUPLEX in Oak Ridge. Appliances included. W/D hookup. Available May 5. $1,200/mo. $1,200 dep. (336) 312-0305

HOUSE FOR RENT IN STOKESDALE.

4BD, 2 full BA. Just fully remodeled. Hardwoods, granite counter tops, new cabinets, tiled bathrooms, crown throughout. Stainless steel appliances included. W/D hookup. $2,000 per mo. $2,000 dep. Available 5/30. (336) 451-7435.

LAND FOR SALE

SUMMERFIELD LAND FOR SALE. Large lots and tracts of land for sale. If you’re looking for land or a great building site, call now, (336) 430-9507.

LAND WANTED

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

Single family WANTING TO PURCHASE land in NW Guilford or Rockingham County for personal home. We are NOT a developer or realtor! Looking for 10 to 100 acres. Please call Brian at (336) 416-6506

in Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Stokesdale. Plus, it’s available for free online and at local restaurants, grocery stores, post offices and more.

We’ll help you reach northwest Guilford County! Place

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...continued from p. 27

classmates, “We might be tempted to remember our sophomore year as the year we missed seeing our classmates, weren’t able to attend school events, and, most tragically, couldn’t find toilet paper anywhere,” he said. But instead, he encouraged them to remember how they persevered through the pandemic and learned “the valuable skill of resilience that we will continue to use throughout our lives, to remember all those moments we got to share with

LAUREN SOUKUP

...continued from p. 27

there last summer that she didn’t want to leave when the school year got underway.

She was also a member of National Honor Society, and volunteered to assist teachers with grading papers and tutoring.

Of the teachers who have most profoundly impacted her, she praised her sophomore English teacher, Ms. Hutchinson, who taught the class online during the first several months of COVID.

“She had the best attitude, she would push us, wouldn’t let us get away with poor writing and wanted us to get better,” Lauren said. “She was amazing.”

In her senior year, it was her AP literature teacher, Ms. Julian, who equally impacted her.

“She always pushed us to make

our families at home, and how we learned the importance of keeping in touch with each other… And of course, to remember how attending class in pajamas wasn’t all that bad.”

In his closing remarks, he advised his classmates to focus not only on achieving goals, but on enjoying the journey while working toward them.

“Let us try to be grateful for the present moments with loved ones and the seemingly small joys, because those are the experiences that comprise the greatest portions of our lives,” he said.

our writing better and push the limits to think about what text could mean. But she was also there when we were having a bad day.”

To her classmates, Lauren conveyed this message: despite the size of their class, every single one had an impact.

“We were all there at the same time and forced to be interconnected. Despite how different everyone is at Northwest, we were still a community and everyone had an understanding and respect for each other,” she said. “I want them to know that I wish them well and I know they’re going to go on to do amazing things.”

In college, Lauren said she most looks forward to learning on a new level.

“Learning is one of my favorite things and driving forces,” she said. “Getting to learn about things I’m passionate about is a dream come true.”

Postal Patron

Postal Patron

John and Amanda Mazza of Summerfield took the Northwest Observer to Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, where they traveled for a business conference this spring. While there, they perused their local paper so they could both stay informed and be amused by happenings

Some of the student cast members in Revolution Academy’s production of “Newsies” in April pose with their teacher and play director, Brian Hubbard, with copies of their hometown newspaper.

Grant and Cameron Page enjoyed having a little piece of home as they read the Northwest Observer at each stop during their cruise to the British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Barbados and Grenada.