Northwest Observer | January 24 - 30, 2014 by pscommunications

Jan. 24 - 30, 2014

bringing the local news home to northwest Guilford County since 1996 • nwobserver.com •

Man recounts miraculous survival, recovery Trapped under a tractor in a remote corner of 620 acres, Edward Malone escapes serious injury by ANNETTE JOYCE

roll down the mountain.

The National Agricultural Tractor Safety Initiative estimates that about 250 people in the United States die each year from tractor-related accidents. Fortunately, northwest Greensboro resident Edward Malone is not one of those people.

“I rushed to get back on it,” Malone said. “The rear wheel of the tractor knocked me to the ground and rolled up on my right thigh. My right leg was

After being trapped underneath his tractor in excruciating pain and fearing that he would die or be paralyzed, Malone walked away with minor injuries. Photos courtesy of Edward Malone.

Rescue workers remove the tractor that trapped Edward Malone at his farm on Nov. 6. Malone credits God and “ministering angels” with sparing his life after he was trapped underneath a tractor on his remote mountain farm.

Malone’s ordeal started on the afternoon of Nov. 6. Alone working on his farm in Martinsville, Va., he had just gotten off his tractor when it started to

NW GUILFORD – On the local front and throughout the country, few businesses were left unscathed by what has often been referred to as the Great Recession. As we settle into a new year, surrounded by reports of a gradual economic turnaround, we surveyed people who are on the frontlines every day – the business owners and entrepreneurs

at the heart of our community. Here’s what they have to say: ••• “We opened our Oak Ridge location in May 2008, just a few months before the economy crashed. It was pretty rough for a few years, but things started improving in the spring of 2013 and

IN THIS ISSUE News in brief.................................3  Stokesdale Town Council appoints citizen to serve two-year term  Budget season is underway

Your Questions.............................4 Summerfield Town Council.........8

We asked local business owners

Are you feeling the effects of an economy turnaround?

...continued on p. 6

Community Calendar...............10 business has remained good. “I think the local economy in general is making a comeback and the opening of the new GTCC campus will provide a boost to the area. “As for our future, we’re looking at maintaining the growth we’ve made over the past year. Anything above that is wonderful. We just don’t want to go back to the 2008 figures.” Donna Spencer, owner Bill’s Pizza Pub/Oak Ridge

...continued on p. 22

Business Notes...........................12 Bits & Pieces...............................12  Two local actresses receive awards

‘Comfort food’ recipes..............13 Student Profiles..........................14 Crime/Incident Report..............15 Letters/Opinions .......................16 Grins & Gripes............................17 Classifieds..................................18 Index of Advertisers..................23 NWO On The Go!...................... 24

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Albert appointed to fill council seat STOKESDALE – Gary Albert ran for a town council seat in November, but lost his bid to Vicki WhiteLawrence. Albert got a second chance at serving on the council, however, when Randy Braswell was elected as mayor after Gary Albert only serving two years of his four-year council term. The town council announced last month that it was accepting applications

from citizens interested in serving out the remaining two years of Braswell’s term. In all, about six people threw their name in the hat. At the Jan. 21 council meeting, the council voted to appoint Albert to serve for two years. Albert, 62, has lived in Stokesdale since 1976. He is the former owner of Stokesdale Auto Supply, and retired last June after selling the business. When running for council earlier this year, his campaign slogan was, “A better Stokesdale, not a more expensive one.” Albert said he has been against a property tax “from the beginning,” and was in favor of “Stokesdale being run by people who have lived here a long time … I don’t think the new people coming here always have the same goals in mind.”

Budget season gets underway NW GUILFORD – It’s a new year, and time for municipalities on a July 1 to June 30 fiscal cycle to begin work on the next fiscal year’s budget. All budget meetings are open to the public and two public hearings are held prior to the budget being approved. Oak Ridge’s finance committee will hold its first budget meeting of the year on Tuesday, Jan. 28 at 6 p.m. at the town hall on Linville Road. The town currently has an operating budget of $1.2 million; its largest source of revenue comes from property tax receipts, which is estimated for this fiscal year at $660,000 (based on tax rate of $8.63 cents per $100 property value). General government expenses, which include staff salaries, professional fees for the town attorney, finance officer and audit firm, utilities and equipment, are estimated at $541,197 this fiscal year. Summerfield will hold a budget workshop on Thursday, Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. at the town hall on Oak Ridge

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Road. Summerfield currently has an operating budget of $2.17 million; its largest single source of revenue also comes from property tax receipts, which is estimated for this year at $458,600 (based on tax rate of 3.5 cents per $100 property value). Franchise/excise taxes, estimated at about $397,000 this year, are the next highest source of revenue. The town’s largest expense line item in this year’s budget is $876,200, of which $600,000 is for land acquisition and development. Summerfield is expected to approve a budget meeting calendar at the Jan. 30 workshop; once approved, the calendar will be posted online at www. summerfieldgov.com. Municipalities on a July 1-June 30 fiscal cycle have until June 30 to approve their budgets, and northwest-area towns typically approve them at their June council meeting.

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phone: (336) 644-7035 fax: (336) 644-7006 mail: PO Box 268 Oak Ridge, NC 27310

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online: nwobserver.com e-mail: questions@nwobserver.com Are there any plans to repair Linville Road between NC 68 and NC 150? The road is really torn up and there are lots of potholes. Something needs to be done. Darrell Ferguson, NCDOT district engineer for Guilford County, says this portion of Linville Road “is on the list to be considered for resurfacing this year.” The DOT is currently in the process of finalizing paving contracts for 2014, Ferguson says. Actual paving will start around April 1 and continue until about the middle of November. In deciding which roads to resurface during a specific time frame, DOT looks at all roads in need of repair and assigns them a number. Lower numbers signify roads that are in the worst shape, and these are the highest priority.

We’re three weeks into January and the town of Stokesdale still has its holiday banners hung along the street. Just wondering when they plan to take them down. Rumor is there might be a problem because it will cost the town $600 to have someone do it. I always thought the fire department did this – what’s the deal? The Town of Stokesdale is responsible for putting up and taking down the banners that hang on light poles along main street. The town contracts an insured and bonded company to do the work. The fire department has never been involved because they don’t have the equipment to handle the work This year the town will pay $820 to have the work done. This money is traditionally considered a parade expense and comes from proceeds from the annual event. According to Carolyn Joyner, town clerk and finance officer, the process of taking down the banners has been delayed by the weather and scheduling conflicts with the people needed to accomplish the job. It has nothing to do with the cost. The extremely rainy and cold weather that we’ve experienced has not offered the best working conditions. Joyner also points out that the banners need to be

dry when they’re brought in for storage, otherwise there’s the risk of mold. Angel Electric of Stokesdale brings in a bucket truck to put up and remove the banners. Because of traffic issues, the town’s deputy is present to insure the workers’ safety. The banners will be taken down as soon as the weather and scheduling of manpower permits, Joyner says.

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Ferguson points out that there are many other roads in worse condition than Linville Road, but he believes the chances of the road being resurfaced this year are “pretty good.” Ferguson confirms that Linville Road has been patched several times. Resurfacing will involve filling in all the potholes and laying down another inch of asphalt.

Photo by Annette Joyce / NWO

Removal of Stokesdale’s holiday banners has been hindered by weather and scheduling conflicts.

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cessful, and we’re happy to In your Nov. report that Minni Threadgill 29-Dec. 5 issue, received 400 cards from you had an article friends, family and complete about Minni Threadgill turning 100 years old on strangers! Dec. 6. In that article you “It was wonderful,” shares wrote that her daughter was Spruill. “She was so excited asking people to send Minni and loved every one of them.” Threadgill birthday cards so she could Cards came from as far receive 100 cards for her 100 years, away as Utah and California. They and included a mailing address where included musical cards and cards that readers could send cards. I sent one, contained photos of people’s children and was wondering if enough other who shared a birthday with Threadpeople did also so that Minni received gill. There was even a card from 1600 100 cards. Pennsylvania Avenue, signed by PresiYou’re right. Last month dent and Mrs. Obama. when Minni Threadgill turned 100 years old, her daughter, Dorothy Spruill, wanted to do something special to commemorate this milestone event. So, she underwent a campaign to fill her mother’s Stokesdale mailbox with 100 birthday cards. Spruill’s campaign was very suc-

Threadgill spent 30 years working in the cafeteria at Stokesdale elementary school. She left there and went to work for Gilbarco in Greensboro, from where she retired. She has three children, twelve grandchildren and a very large number of great, great-great and great-great-great grandchildren.

NEWS BRIEFS ...continued from p. 5

Insurance companies request hefty rate increase Jan. 31 is deadline for public comments on request NORTH CAROLINA – Insurance companies say they’ve been hit hard in recent years with claims from Hurricane Irene, Hurricane Sandy and several tornadoes. As a result, many insurers have either stopped offering homeowners insurance, or now require customers to purchase auto insurance from them before they can purchase homeowners insurance. The insurance companies, represented by the North Carolina Rate Bureau, are requesting to raise homeowners insurance by a statewide average of 25 percent. Jan. 31 is the deadline for the public to submit comments on the insurance companies’ request. Written public comments should be

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emailed to 2014homeowners@ncdoi. gov or mailed to: NCDOI, Attn: Bob Mack, Property & Casualty Division, 1201 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1201 by Jan. 31. As of Jan. 20, the Department of Insurance had received more than 2,000 emailed or mailed written comments. The rate filing will be reviewed by Department of Insurance experts to determine what, if any, rate adjustments are warranted. If the Department of Insurance and North Carolina Rate Bureau cannot agree on rate changes, Commissioner Goodwin will call for a formal hearing in which both parties would present their cases for any rate adjustments.

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TRACTOR ACCIDENT ...continued from p. 1 thrown over my left leg in scissor fashion and the wheel rolled up on top of my crossed legs, pinning me underneath.” In horrific pain, Malone tried unsuccessfully to move the tractor off his body. “I realized I was in real trouble,” he recalls. “I was 1 ½ miles from the closest blacktop road on a ridge on Turkey Cock Mountain in the southeast quadrant of a 620-acre track of recreation and hunting land, with 10 miles of fourwheel drive roads.”

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With no one remotely close to provide help, Malone struggled to retrieve his cell phone from his left jeans pocket. “Since I was pinned to the ground on my left side, this was a near impossible task,” he said. Managing to finally reach the phone, on his first attempt to call for help he dialed 411 instead of 911. His next attempt was successful, but the dispatcher couldn’t understand Malone because of the noise from the tractor’s diesel engine. In frustration, he hung up and phoned a neighbor – and got an answering machine. Then, the 911 dispatcher called back.

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While Malone, a lay minister and founder of the Guilford County Jail Ministry, lay trapped underneath the machine, he said the only thing that entered his consciousness was that it didn’t matter if he was unable to walk. “I was certain I would not,” he said. “The thought that passed through my mind in lightning speed was that I could still minister and this was unexplainably comforting. I would not need my legs. Other than that (thought), my total focus was on surviving.” To survive, Malone had to be found and that proved to be a challenge. “The 911 operator and I discussed location over and over,” said Malone.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

“She tried to repeat what I would shout and I either agreed or tried to correct her. Again I shouted to her ‘go to the dead end of the county road, turn left onto a gravel road, then go 3/4 mile to a farm gate. From the gate, go 1/2 mile and take a right up the mountain. When they get to a green field, cross it. I am 100 yards into the woods from that field.’” Malone managed to stay conscious and in contact with the 911 operator. After some time, she relayed the message that the responders had made it through the gate and were at the cabin. Malone’s heart sank. The emergency team had gone the wrong way and was on the opposite side of the mountain. While the team made their way back, an acquaintance of Malone’s, Henry County deputy sheriff Wayne Davis, showed up. He had heard the call on the radio, knew the way to the location and decided to respond. With help from the 911 dispatcher, Davis was able to locate Malone and instruct the others as to how to get there. He was also able to move the tractor off of Malone. At that point, Malone says the blood started flowing back into his legs and he “felt the worse pain that he could ever have believed possible.” Help from volunteer fire departments and emergency response teams continued to arrive, along with a helicopter to transport Malone to Roanoke Memorial Hospital. After a 15-minute flight to the hospital, Malone was immediately taken to the emergency room. He recalls that his “legs hurt to touch the skin.” A little more than two hours later, the pain was gone, he was able to move his feet and legs and the x-rays showed no factures. His hospital stay lasted only two days. Malone sees his ordeal and survival as a miracle from God. “I believe in ministering angels,” he says. “The good Lord will have good come from this.”

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orking with individual homeowners, Realtors and businesses, Old School Small Job Home Repair is a home improvement and repair company that handles a complete range of jobs including dry wall repair, ceramic tile, bathroom remodeling, interior and exterior painting, structural repair, insurance claim repairs and much more. “We do everything from power washing and carpentry to picture hanging and replacing light bulbs,” says Jerry Potkay, who owns & operates Old School along with his wife, Lisa Poppa. “We specialize in jobs that other businesses might consider too small to be worth their time.” “There’s no job too small,” Lisa emphasizes. “In fact, our very first job was a simple request to change a light bulb for a sweet elderly lady who was unable to do it.”

“We recently had the good fortune to have work performed in our home by Old School Small Job Home Repair,” writes Greensboro resident, Melia Pavoris. “Jerry and his fantastic assistants came in and put down sub flooring in our kitchen, laundry rooms and both baths, laid tile in all of these rooms and replaced the shower and tub surround in the master bath. They were extremely proficient and we found their work and work ethic to be five-star!” Larry and Debbie Haege of High Point were also very pleased with the job Jerry and the team at Old School Small Job Home Repair did for them at their office and at their home. “They repaired the storm damage to the exterior of our offices quickly, avoiding any inside damage. Their work on our home has it looking and feeling like new again. We are looking

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

Husband and wife, Jerry Potkay and Lisa Poppa, owners of Old School Small Job Home Repair

build Black Hawk helicopters and after that, worked 13 years as a welder for a Connecticut company. During that time, he was exposed to every aspect of the business and was mentored by seasoned repairmen and carpenters. forward to our next project together!” “Thanks for understanding our need for quick service,” says Carole Mezzapelli of Colfax. “We appreciate your squeezing us into your busy schedule.” As the owners of Old School, Jerry and Lisa relish hearing these kinds of comments. And it’s their commitment to exceptional service that makes such praise, repeat business and referrals the norm rather than the exception for this growing company. While Jerry spends his days providing estimates and personally taking care of repair jobs, Lisa handles the administrative duties. Before opening the business, Lisa spent 18 years in office administration and is committed to providing quick and efficient service – something that both she and Jerry take much pride in. Jerry’s background prepared him well for dealing with the vast array of tasks he performs in his business. At 17, he joined the navy and became proficient in welding. He left the service to

“The old-timers taught me everything I know,” says Jerry. “That’s how we came up with the name ‘Old School’.” Although they originally opened Old School in Connecticut, Jerry and Lisa moved their family to Stokesdale in 2005 and found themselves starting over. “Our faith has always been very important to us and it definitely carried us through during those lean beginnings,” says Lisa. After only a few jobs, word quickly spread that Old School could be counted on for quality, affordable work. “We work very hard to provide professional, honest and reliable service,” says Jerry. “We pay attention to what our customers want and follow through with our promises.” “This includes returning calls and showing up when we say we will,” adds Lisa. “It’s all about reliability.” This attitude has definitely paid off. Despite the worst economic years since the Depression, Old School has continued to grow. In addition to a

team of professionals that provide specialized services, the company now employs office assistant Kenda Braswell and a general labor assistant, Brian Domnick. Besides using their talents for their livelihood, Jerry and Lisa are committed to giving back to God. Through their church, Calvary Church on Pleasant Ridge Road in northwest Greensboro, Jerry goes on mission building trips to Cuba and Panama twice a year. He is also the small group leader of the church’s Servant’s Heart ministry, which provides services to the needy. Jerry and Lisa see their business as a ministry to reach out to people in need and often pray with clients and offer support. “We trust in the Lord for His provision,” says Jerry. The couple enjoys spending free time with their six children and Lisa’s mom, Mary Ann. Timmy, 22, is a student at UNCG and is currently studying abroad in Poland. Jeffrey, 21, is a freshman at UNCG and Brittany, 20, is working full time. Twins Mikayla and Nick, 16, and Brett, 15, are students at Northwest High School. Old School has been a member of the Better Business Bureau since 2006.

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SUMMERFIELD town council

Jan. 14 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by PATTI STOKES Council member Elizabeth McClellan was excused from the meeting on Jan. 14. McClellan recently gave birth to her fourth child, a daughter. Councilwoman Dena Barnes said she would be participating in “Dancing with the Stars,” a fundraiser for Operation Smile, on Feb. 15 and she welcomed contributions for this worthy cause. Town Manager Scott Whitaker announced there would be a meeting in Madison on Jan. 23 regarding the future I-73 project. Troy Stantliff, who will celebrate 50 years of volunteering with the Summerfield Fire Department on Jan. 28, was honored for his service to the

town. Mayor Tim Sessoms, former mayor Mark Brown, and Fire Chief Chris Johnson took turns reading portions of a proclamation of appreciation, and Stantliff received a standing ovation from those attending the meeting, which included many of his fellow firefighters. Linda Southard reported that the Historic committee is seeking more committee members. Work is already underway on the history tent that will be set up at Founders’ Day on May 16-17. Also in the coming months, the committee will be working with veterans from VFW Post 7999 on plans for a Memorial Day ceremony, will be replacing several

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of the banners hanging in the historic district, planning the third annual mother/daughter tea, and possibly planning a book signing for a young author from the Summerfield area. The Public Safety committee planned to take a tour of the new District 1 sheriff’s office on Summerfield Road at its next meeting.

houses and it told that people might have to leave in a few weeks,” Holder said. She was making plans to move, she said, but was concerned because her mobile home was too old to have electricity run to it if moved. “We want to know what’s going to be done … are they going to give us anything for the mobile home?” Holder asked.

Cheri Pickett said she felt communica The Trails and Open Space committee hopes to get the RFP (Request for Protion was critical, and that council memposal) process bers should keep underway within friendships out of the next month, their decisions. “Reand will present garding the Gordon more details property, I think if about its plans this is going to hapfor a trail route pen and the people through Sumhave to move, if we merfield at the could offer them Betty Holder February counsome sort of relocamobile home park resident cil meeting. tion fee …”

We want to know what’s going to be done … are they going to give us anything for the mobile home?”

PUBLIC COMMENTS Betty Holder, a resident of the mobile home park on the Gordon property that the town plans to purchase, said she had lived in the mobile home park for 39 years and was aware the property had been for sale, but as she understood it, no one had been looking at it. “I didn’t know it was being sold until someone delivered the Star paper and it told that they were going to bulldoze

GRANITE SALE

Gail Dunham said she had a lot of questions about the Gordon property, including why the town would pay $400,000 for it (the property consists of two tracts of land, one at 15.66 acres with two houses, a barn and a mobile home park and the other a .35-acre lot which has the former Gordon Hardware building on it). Dunham said the town had not disclosed information it should have regarding the potential purchase and everything was being done “in

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the northwest area approve the annual budget at their June meetings, which follows several budget meetings and two public hearings. Regarding statements made by citizens earlier in the meeting, Mayor Sessoms and Whitaker both urged anyone with questions about any issues relating to the town to contact them directly (call the town hall at 643-8655, or email Sessoms at tsessoms@summerfieldgov. com or Whitaker at swhitaker@summerfieldgov.com. Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

Mayor Tim Sessoms (left) and former Mayor Mark Brown, along with Fire Chief Chris Johnson (not shown), present Troy Stantliff with a proclamation of appreciation for 50 years of service.

secret.” She also asked if the town had given any consideration to the people who live in the mobile homes on the property, and an environmental assessment of the property was not sufficient, nor was 60 days in which to conduct it.

TOWN MANAGER Parks Manager Jeff Goard introduced Rick Biggs, who has been hired as a part-time seasonal employee to help with park projects. The town took over its own mowing last year and Biggs, who began working for the town on Jan. 6, will help maintain the properties at the community and athletic parks.

nce e l l e c Ex asm usi h t n E nce e i r e p Ex

Cheri Pickett has volunteered to serve on the Founders Day committee and one more committee member is being sought (if interested, call the town hall at 643-8655 or email clerk@summerfield.gov). Whitaker announced there will be a budget workshop on Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. at the town hall, which will kick off the formal budget process. “There is plenty of opportunity for public input,” said Whitaker. A calendar of future budget meetings will be adopted at the Jan. 30 meeting. Mayor Sessoms emphasized that the meetings would give anyone who wanted input on the budget to have that opportunity. Typically towns in

The real estate market is back!

Mayor Sessoms was appointed to represent the town on the Piedmont Triad Regional Council. The finance office is currently bonded for $50,000, and after further discussion the council decided not to increase the amount of bond coverage; council member Alicia Flowers had previously asked about increasing the bond coverage to $100,000 since the town has $8 million in reserves, but after staff sought the advice of PTOG (Piedmont Triad

Council of Governments) and researched the amount of coverage that other towns have, she said she was satisfied that it wasn’t necessary to spend over $200 more per year to increase the coverage. Before recessing for an executive session, Mayor Sessoms said, “I would like to comment on the earlier comments from the public. Thank you. Regarding a lot of the questions that were asked, the answers are already in the public domain and we would welcome the opportunity for anyone to call or email us directly, because we do want to have an open discussion, as much as possible. We are in a period of due diligence (referencing the potential purchase of the Gordon property, in which the town has 60 days to perform structural and environmental assessments of the property and buildings on it before the sale is finalized). Following an executive session lasting about 25 minutes, the council reconvened and immediately adjourned.

Proudly serving you since 1963 Home • Auto • Motorcycle Business • Life • Medicare Solutions* *Erie does not offer medicare solutions.

Your local real estate expert to buy or sell since 1996

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/RamilyaSiegel

Mike Williams, Sr.

Mike Williams, Jr.

Chuck Gladwell

(336) 299-5185 • 5709 Friendly Ave., Greensboro

www.gladwellinsurance.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

mark your

Westergaard Kennels

calendar

DOG BOARDING

5719 Bunch Rd, Oak Ridge 643-5169 • jingletail@mac.com www.westbengoldens.com 25 years serving you

Submit your events online at

Bobbie Gardner CRS/GRI/Relocation Specialist EcoBroker

(336) 382-5939 Click “community calendar” on the left-hand side

www.allentate.com/bobbiegardner

SATURDAY, JAN. 25

B.E.K. Paint Co. Residential & Commercial

(336) 931-0600

BEKPaintCompany.com David & Judy Long, owners References Available • Licensed & Insured All Work Guaranteed

zz Food Pantry/Clothes Closet | Good Samaritan Ministries of Stokesdale will offer its monthly food pantry and clothes closet for those in need on Jan. 25, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Stokesdale Business Center, 8500 Ellisboro Rd. Those who’d like to donate to the food pantry may purchase a complete box of food from the Bi-Rite in Stokesdale for $25; monetary donations can be sent to Good Samaritan Ministries, P.O. Box 202, Stokesdale, NC 27357. Have clothes to donate to the clothes closet (children’s clothing especially needed)? Contact Terri, 643-5887 or Terrij1957@yahoo.com.

walks • play-dates • feeding • medication • even extra belly rubs!

Spoil-Me-Rotten ANIMAL CARE, INC.

(336) 643-5242 Nancy Brooks, PSI Member

COMING LATE JANUARY Need-to-know, fun-to-know and good-to-know info for northwest-area residents, all in one place prin

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

ted a nn

ually • online 24/7 at nwobser ver.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

The

Longhouse

SPECIAL EVENTS CENTER

calendar continued SUNDAY, JAN. 26

zz AA Meeting | Stokesdale Christian Church, 8607

Planning a wedding? We can help!

(336) 707-6652 thelonghousenc.com

Summerfield Family Chiropractic

Stokesdale St., holds weekly AA meetings on Sundays at 6:30 p.m. More info: call 392-6676.

zz Broadway Lullaby | The Oak Ridge Youth Theater will present “Broadway Lullaby,” a family comedy drama, on Jan. 26 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Oak Ridge United Methodist Church, 2424 Oak Ridge Rd. No admission fee will be charged, and attendees can enjoy a complimentary dessert buffet. More info: call 255-4445 or email mike@oakridgeyouththeatre.com.

Carlotta Lytton

, CPA, PC

Individual & Corporate Tax Returns Specializing in Payroll & Accounting for Small Businesses phone: (336) 644-7033

7805 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale clyttoncpa@bellsouth.net

fax: (336) 644-7038

MONDAY, JAN. 27

zz AA and Al-Anon Meetings | Community Lutheran

4523 Hwy 220 N • Summerfield Complimentary Consultations New Patients Accepted Daily

Dr. Rod C. Brown

336-644-1112

www.summerfieldchiro.com

Church of Summerfield, 4960 U.S. 220 N., will host an AA and Al-Anon meeting on Jan. 27 at 8 p.m. More info: call 643-7667. TUESDAY, JAN. 28

zz Budget Meeting | The Town of Oak Ridge’s finance

We Help Everyone! SELLERS & BUYERS (336) 643-4248 e-mail: dstone27357@yahoo.com

www.ANewDawnRealty.com

Dawn Stone Owner/Broker

committee will hold its first budget meeting of the year on Jan. 28 at 6 p.m. at Town Hall, 8315 Linville Rd., to begin discussing the 2014/2015 FY budget. The public is invited.

zz Food and Clothing Drive/Sonshine Room | Sum-

Northwest

Animal Hospital Karen Nasisse, DVM (336) 643-8984 1692 NC 68N, Suite J, Oak Ridge

Compassionate, comprehensive, state-of-the-art care

merfield United Methodist Church continues to collect food and clothing for its Sonshine Room. Those in need of food, clothing, baby items, toiletries, etc., can stop by the church’s Sonshine Room, which is open the last Tuesday of every month from 2 to 4 p.m. at 2334 Scalesville Rd. More info: call 643-5126.

Take us anywhere Find our free e-edition on our homepage at www.nwobserver.com

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 29

e-edition

zz AA Meeting | Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, 2614 Oak Ridge Rd., holds AA meetings on Wednesday at 8 p.m. More info: call 643-3452. THURSDAY, JAN. 30

zz Spelling Bee | Northern Elementary School in Greensboro, 3801 Hwy. 150 E., will host a spelling bee on Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. in the gymnasium. More info: email Heather Hosseinzadeh, heatherh0512@yahoo.com.

...because there’s no place like Home! Client Centered  Service Focused  Excellence Driven (336) 209-2668 • RidgewoodRealtyNC.com

zz Budget Workshop | The Summerfield Town Council will have a budget workshop on Jan. 30 to begin discussing the 2014/2015 FY budget. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at the Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road in Summerfield.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

daily playtimes included large indoor/outdoor runs 7630 Royster Road • Greensboro

(336) 644-1095 www.CountryKennelBoarding.com

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

BUSINESS notes

BITS and PIECES

Dr. DeVaney certified in implantology Congratulations Samuel Pool DeVaney Dentistry at Oak Ridge is proud to announce that Dr. Matt DeVaney is now a fellow member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Dr. DeVaney has been certified and completed a ninemonth course comprised of 216 hours

Jamaal Johnson, a personal trainer with SNAP Fitness, shows a potential client the fitness equipment during SNAP’s grand re-opening on Jan. 18. SNAP Fitness, located at 68 Place, 1433-B Highway 68 North in Oak Ridge, was purchased by Paul Benz and Kimberly Stoll in November. Photo by Laura Pullins/NWO

of hands-on implant training at the prestigious Triangle Dental Institute. This allows patients who need dental implants to be able to have the entire process completed in the Oak Ridge office instead of going to multiple offices and doctors.

Congressman Howard Coble’s office recently announced that Samuel Pool, Northwest Guilford High School student, has received an appointment to both

Milam, Engel receive acting awards Two northwest-area actresses are recent recipients of Piedmont Theatre Guide’s “Best of the Triad” annual awards. The Promising Young Performer award and the Best Supporting Actress (Community Theatre) award went to Summerfield’s Henson Milam for her role as Eponine in Les Misérables, produced by the Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance. Milam, 16, has already landed several key roles in her young acting career and seems bound for many more. A junior at Greensboro Day School, she says some of her favorite theatre credits include Les Misérables (Eponine), produced by the Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance); Shrek (Fiona), produced by Community Theatre of Greensboro; The Wizard of Oz (Dorothy), produced by Community Theatre of Greensboro; Into the Woods (Baker’s Wife), produced by

We now offer implants

DeVaney Dentistry can now complete your entire implant treatment in our office without referring to another office. Dr. Matt DeVaney is certified by the prestigious Triangle Dental Institute for implant placement, and is a Fellow Member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI). See the Business Notes section of this issue of the Northwest Observer for more details

www.drdevaney.com | 1580 Hwy 68 N, Oak Ridge | (336) 643-5515

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., and to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. Samuel is the son of Trevor and Heather Pool of Colfax.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Henson Milam of Summerfield, above, and right as Eponine in Les Misérables.

Open Space Café Theatre; Little Women (Beth March), produced by Open Space Café Theatre; Sweeney Todd (Pirelli), produced by Long Lake Camp for the Arts; and 13 (Lucy), produced by

...continued on p. 16

‘Comfort food ’ recipes

to warm you up on cold winter days by HELEN LEDFORD I remember well those icy days when as a child my siblings and I played out in the snow until my Mama called us in. Always there was a pot of rich vegetable soup bubbling on the stove, and whilewe pulled off our wet clothing and warmed our red

noses, she dished out steaming bowls of it. It was not only a nutritious cold weather body fuel, but so delicious! Here are shared “comfort food” recipes that are also sure to please – and made to order for frigid January and February days.

Grandma’s Ham Stew 3 to 4 cups of chicken broth

Salt, pepper, a little vinegar to taste

1 15-oz can tomato sauce

Simmer slowly on stove all day and serve over white rice

Cubed, cooked ham for flavor Corn, green beans, lima beans, onions – or any leftover veggies Canned stewed tomatoes Okra (put in last to keep it firm)

Soup n a e B e e r h T wn Ernie’s ketchup, bro s, n a e b e in b Com

ings) ar d (save dripp e k o co , sugar, vineg n co a , add 3 strips b into mixture gs n o c d a e b p p le o b h Crum ion, c r of drippin 1 medium on nd remainde eans, a b s y n e io n n o id k f o ach) h or bean 1 16-oz. can (e s casserole dis utes in to in r u o n P a e b pork and e for 30 min pot and bak en s n a e b a m li n ov 1 small ca gar, 350-degree su n w ro b p u up, ½ c rnie Wall, E y b d ½ cup ketch te u ib tr Con ar ¼ cup vineg Oak Ridge n o , c d a b re f ti o . re p ts 2 in Saute onion drippings

Contributed by: Angela Freeman Blackwell, former student at Oak Ridge Elementary (and now of Plymouth, Mass.)

Romanian Mont errey Jack Nood 16-oz. brick of M les on

terrey Jack chee shredded se, In a 1 ½ qt . casserol layer noodles, ch e dish, alternately 10- to 12-oz pk eese and dill wee g. wide noodles d Top with bread ¼ cup milk crumbs, pour m ilk over the top Dill weed Bake 15-20 min Bread crumbs utes until brown. Serves 4-5 Preheat oven to 375 degrees Contributed by B on Boil noodles 5 of Stokesdale (formniere Ramba to 7 minutes (not totally soft Pennsylvania). Rec ly from ), drain ipe

husband’s Romania from n grandmother.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

STUDENT PROFILES

Now registering for Fall 2014

Expanding minds, sparking creativity, building character and faith

Thanks to the coaches and teachers at Northern and Northwest High Schools for their student recommendations and input, which make it possible to recognize these talented, dedicated students for their accomplishments in academics, athletics and cultural arts. Thanks, too, to the student reporters at Northern and Northwest who helped us compile these profiles.

NORTHWEST

Cheerleading ALICIA PERRY, senior

Half-day preschool for toddlers through Pre-K Corner of Battleground Ave and Pisgah Church Rd

(336) 288-3335• mpws.org

Hometown: Greensboro Toughest class: AB Calculus Extracurricular activities: Cheer, chorus, Interact Club Favorite food: French fries Favorite band: Katy Perry Favorite movie: She’s the Man Any siblings? Two brothers, Michael and Steven

Best vacation ever: Tokyo with Bailey Clark Years in the northwest area: 15 Dream job: Physical therapist Interesting/fun fact about yourself: I’m going to UNCW Nickname? “Leesh” Role on the squad: Base Pre-game superstition: I can’t practice my stunt or it will not hit Coach Beau Davis comments: “Alicia is the model of a classic cheerleader and sets an example for all teammates with her enthusiasm and team spirit.”

NORTHWEST

Chorus

SAMUEL PEICKERT, senior

Helping everyday people every day Engaged in the general practice of law, including wills, estate planning, trusts, guardianships, probate and administration of estates and trust, real estate, small business start-ups & contracts

(336) 643-4623 8004 Linville Rd, Suite E-3 Oak Ridge

Hometown: Los Angeles, Calif. Toughest class: AP Stats Extracurricular activities: Ultimate Frisbee Favorite food: Burritos Favorite band: Eli Golding Favorite movie: The Princess Bride Any siblings? One little sister Best vacation ever: Europe tour Years in the northwest area: 4 Dream job: Preacher/missionary

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

NORTHERN

Swimming

MOLLY OSBORNE, junior

Hometown: Moved from New Orleans Toughest class: AP English Extracurricular activities: Health Occupations Students of America Club (OSA), tennis Favorite food: Pizza Favorite movie: She’s the Man Best vacation: Cruise to Mexico Years lived in Northern area: 6 Dream Job: Physical therapist Fun fact: My birthday is on New Year’s Eve Nickname: “Molls Balls” Role on the team: 100- and 200-meter freestyle Pre-game ritual: Bus singalongs Coach Richard Swor’s comments: “Molly dedicates herself 100 percent to her efforts while in practice. She is a great team swimmer and is willing to lend her expertise to developing members of the team. Her leadership in the 200 freestyle and her solid efforts in the relays will help the Northern swim team to be successful at conference and beyond.”

Get. Be. Stay.

www.attorneybillbarbour.com

Interesting/fun fact about yourself: I was born in Guam. Nickname? “Sam” What do you sing in the chorus? Baritone Chorus teacher Tres Ward’s comments: “Sam is a fantastic student who cultivates great friendships and always works hard with a great spirit.”

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Connected.

facebook.com/NorthwestObserver

CRIME / INCIDENT report The District 1 Sheriff’s Office has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest Guilford County. THEFT

JAN. 15 | Supply Chain Management of Colfax reported a 2006 Coachman trailer, valued at about $2,500, was stolen from the parking lot where it’s normally stored. The theft occurred sometime between Dec. 10, 2013 and Jan. 14.

JAN. 10 | Alamo National Rental Car at PTI Airport reported a 2014 Dodge Caravan was stolen from the parking lot and later involved in an accident. During the crash investigation it was discovered that the car was stolen; the driver was arrested. JAN. 18 | A resident of Autumn Ridge Court in north Greensboro reported JAN. 15 | A resident of US 158 in his pull-behind trailer, valued at about Stokesdale reported a known person $1,000, was stolen sometime between stole prescription medication from her Dec. 18, 2013 and Jan. 18 while he was home. The theft occurred between Jan. 15-20, and the loss is estimated at $100. out of the country.

Deadline approaching for Sheriff’s Citizen’s Academy The Guilford County Sheriff’s Office is offering another Sheriff’s Citizen’s Academy beginning Feb. 6 at the downtown office, located at 400 W. Washington St. The program consists of 20 sessions, with instructional discussions every Thursday from 6:30 to 9:45 p.m., plus four Saturday morning labs. Discussion topics include: the laws of arrest, crime scene investigating, firearm simulation, and more. “The goal of the academy is to improve law enforcement/community relations through a formalized educational process,”

says Guilford County Sheriff BJ Barnes. Participation is open to any interested person 18 or older who meets the eligibility requirements. For a copy of the application and eligibility requirements, visit www. guilfordcountysheriff.com and click the link “Citizen’s Academy.” The application deadline is Feb. 3, and applications can be mailed to the attention of Sgt. J.C. Fuller / MCpl. Jackson / Cpl. Herndon at the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office, 400 W. Washington St., Greensboro, NC, 27401.

Last day of Grades evaluations 1-8 & orientations Saturday, Jan. 25 • 1- 4 pm Every child must attend only one evaluation/ orientation in order to participate Visit oakridgecbc.org/upward for more info

Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC 26 Years Experience Individual, Corporate, Partnership & Payroll Tax Electronic Tax Filing  Estate Planning  Bookkeeping & Compilations

1715 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge | (336) 643-7684

Oak Ridge Business Center

www.oakridgecbc.org

8004 Linville Rd, Suite G, Oak Ridge

(336) 643-7577 or 1-800-467-8299 info@samanderscpa.com

www.samanderscpa.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

BITS and PIECES

...continued from p. 12

Community Theatre of Greensboro.

Photo by Laura Pullins/NWO

Milam attended Carnegie Mellon University’s pre-college program last summer as a musical theatre major. She was one of 12 students chosen from the program to be in a short film titled “UNKNOWN.” She also made her feature film debut this fall in Crimes and Mister Meanors as Brittany Harvard. When she is not acting, she enjoys ice skating, tap dancing, and traveling to New York City to see shows.

Northwest Vikings’ Leah Wallace prepares to shoot a free throw in the game against High Point Central on Jan. 17. The Viking girls scored a decisive win, 70-20, and are 9-7 for the season.

Milam is excited to be the only high school student performing in Greensboro College’s musical Carrie this February as Sue Snell. In May, she will return to Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance to perform her dream role, Natalie, in the musical Next to Normal. Milam is the daughter of Paul and Virginia Milam of Summerfield. Piedmont Theatre Guide’s Best Actress (Community Theatre) award went to Oak Ridge’s Amber Engel, for her role as Sally Bowles in Cabaret, produced by Community Theatre of Greensboro. Engel, 30, is married to Jeremy Engel and has a stepdaughter, Cate, 11, daughter Alora, 5, and son Colin (who we wrote about after learning he was born on Bryan Boulevard), will be 3 on

Amber Engel, above, and right as Sally Bowles in Cabaret, produced by CTG.

Valentine’s Day. Now a stay-at-home mom, Engel holds two degrees from UNCG, one in opera performance and the other in music education.

Engel is currently rehearsing for Fantine in Les Misérables, which will be produced by the Gallery Players in Burlington. The show will be at the Paramount Theatre In downtown Burlington on Feb. 21-23, Feb. 27-28 and March 1-2.

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

The Viking boys and girls will play at Southwest on Friday, Jan. 24.

Playing Sally Bowles in Cabaret was Engel’s first major acting role, though she says she had minor operatic roles in college. She is currently the alto section leader with the Piedmont Chamber Singers in Winston-Salem.

Join us every Sunday

The Viking boys also won their game against High Point Central, although that game, which ended at 47-45, was a bit more of a nail biter. The boys team is 14-2 for the season.

1715 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge (336) 643-7684 www.oakridgecbc.org

LETTERS/OPINIONS Submit your editorials (maximum 350 words) e-mail: editor@nwobserver.com Include name, phone number and community in which you live.

New sign better represents handicapped people Did you know that commissioners in New York are working on a new symbol for the handicapped? The new symbol shows a person in motion, which indicates that handicapped people can be and are active. Massachusetts and New York were first to come up with this and New York plans to adopt it. I think North Carolina should adopt it too. Logan Doles, OAK RIDGE Logan is a sixth grade student at Northwest Middle School.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

GRINS and GRIPES Delighted or dismayed by something in your community?

Share your thoughts in

40 words or less

online: nwobserver.com e-mail: grinsandgripes @nwobserver.com mail: Grins & Gripes, PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310 Grins & Gripes are published based on available space and editor’s discretion.

GRINS to... John Masterson, 8th grade social studies teacher at Berrendo Middle School in Roswell, New Mexico, for standing directly in front of a student and convincing him to turn over his shotgun after shooting two other students. Your heroism saved lives. Drivers coming south on Pleasant Ridge Road in Summerfield on weekday mornings. We appreciate you letting the cars on Hamburg Mill turn on to Pleasant Ridge at that very crowded intersection! Alison Kerber of Oak Ridge for completing the Goofy marathon at Walt Disney World – 1/2 marathon on Saturday, Jan. 11 and full marathon on Sunday, Jan. 12. You go girl! Northwest Observer editor Patti

Stokes for setting the story straight about the Town of Summerfield’s offer to purchase the land on US 220. The half-truths printed in the “other paper” regarding this matter upset a lot of people. Chris Johnson (Summerfield Fire Chief) for being a hero to all life. We always hear tragic stories of animal abuse, and if there were more compassionate people in the world like you it would be a great place to live. It’s Trendee in Summerfield. I took the Northwest Observer’s advice to shop local during the holidays and discovered this great little shop on Summerfield Road that supports local artisans. They also get kudos for great customer service! Myself. Instead of burning my yard debris and thus insulting my neighbors with thick bluish acrid smoke (as well as increasing a fire hazard), I had it hauled away to the White Street Landfill. Wish everyone was just as considerate!

GRIPES to...

YOUR COMPLETE AUTO CARE CENTER

Our friendly, knowledgeable team of experts is ready to serve you Tires | Alignments | Tire repair & flat repair Batteries & electrical system | Brakes | Custom wheels

Guilford County Schools. On Thursday, Jan. 16, the five adjacent counties open school on time, yet 2-hour delay for Guilford County. Smart decision?? Great use of tax dollars at work? The school bus, Republic, UPS, and FedEx drivers who seem unable to stay on the public streets when driving in residential areas. I know the streets are narrow, but you people are supposed to be pros. I end up having to pay to repair your lack of skill – or concern.

Oil changes | Tune-ups | State inspection

Complete Car Care Stokesdale

Located at Kings Crossing 7705 Highway 68 N (336) 441-8066

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Madison

706 Burton Street (336) 548-6674

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

 EMPLOYMENT

SAVE THE DATE

HOME SERVICES

MEDICAL OFFICE, full-time position, will

FAIRY GARDEN WORKSHOP The Garden Outlet will be having a workshop on building fun little fairy worlds to take home. Available workshop dates are Jan. 25, Feb. 1, 8, 15, and 22. Please call to schedule your workshop, (336) 643-0898.

CHRISTIAN MOM needs work cleaning houses, running errands. Will clean to ﬁt your budget. Pet taxi/pet sitting also avail. References. Call Laura Bennett, 231-1838.

train. Apply Wednesday, January 29 from 11am - 1pm at 4523 Hwy. 220N in Summerﬁeld. No phone calls, please. Drivers: TEAM DRIVERS NEEDED in the Greensboro area. Excellent hourly pay. $18.94 per hour + $4.46 H&W. Class A CDL & two years experience required in the past ﬁve years. EOE/AA. Salmon Companies, (800) 251-4301 or apply online at www.salmoncompanies.com.

HIRING? Advertise it here!

Place online at

NOW HIRING: Full-time Inside Sales Representative.

Part-time Customer Service

(several positions available), ﬂexible hours! Perfect for college student! Part-time Equipment Operator, load customers with forklift

NEED HELP? Call (336) 644-7035 ext. 10 Mon - Fri • 9am -2pm

/loader. Contact: Khayes@marshallstone. com with resume or to apply. REG VET TECH or EXP. VET ASSISTANT needed for busy small animal hospital. Must be willing to work ﬂexible hours, in-

Oak Ridge Youth Theatre proudly presents BROADWAY LULLABY, Sunday, Jan. 26, 6:30pm (live music begins at 6:15pm), Oak Ridge United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 2424 Oak Ridge Road. Free admission and dessert buffet. Love offering accepted. Visit www.oakridgeyouththeatre. com for more information.

Something

going on

Tell northwest Guilford County Place your Save the Date online at

cluding some weekends. Pre-employment drug screen required. Apply in person at 1012 Highway 150 W., Summerﬁeld, NC,

INDEX Employment ................................ 18

www.theahlb.com. Drivers: DEDICATED. Regional & OTR. Start up to $.44/mi + excellent beneﬁts. 401K + bonuses. Excellent hometime!

Home Care Available .................. 18

CDL-A & 6mos. exp. (877) 704-3773.

Home Care Needed .................... 18

 HOMECARE AVAILABLE

Save the Date ............................. 18 Youth Sports ................................ 18 Home Services ....................... 18-20 Misc. Services.............................. 20 Misc. for Sale ......................... 20-21 Misc. Wanted ............................. 21 Pets/Animals & Services ............... 21 Real Estate .................................. 21

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

ELDERCARE AVAILABLE, part-time, ﬁve years experience. (336) 643-5586. ELDERCARE AVAILABLE Experienced with numerous homecare services. References available. Wage & hours negotiable. (336) 707-5245.

HOMECARE NEEDED HOME CAREGIVER NEEDED for elderly person. References needed. 644-8644.

YOUTH SPORTS UPWARD Basketball & Cheerleading evaluations, 1st-8th grade, Saturday, January 25, 1-4pm, Central Baptist Church, Oak Ridge.

HOME SERVICES

MARIA’S CLEANING SERVICE. Free estimates, guaranteed service. 432-4483. ROSA’S CLEANING SERVICE. 11 yrs. exp. Excellent references. (336) 508-5714. MAID-2-SHINE. Serving NW area for 10 years. Homes, ofﬁces, move in/out. Detail oriented, prof, bonded, exc. ref. 338-0223. CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING, gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. www.windowcleaningnc.com. 399-3995. FREE PICK-UP of mowers, batteries, AC’s, appliances, grills, etc. 689-4167. ANA’S HOUSECLEANING. Good references, free est., 25 years exp. 309-0747. CastleWorks WINDOW CLEANING Includes gutters, pressure washing, chandeliers and other high ladder work. Fully insured and bonded, free estimates. 609-0677. www.castleworkswindowcleaning.com.

RESIDENTIAL AND

COMMERCIAL summerfield

CLEANING Professional custom cleaning for home & office

, in d i a M e m o H

Weekly / Biweekly / Monthly Move-Out/Move-In • Detail/Deep Seasonal • Licensed/Bonded/Insured Customized Services GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

(336) 441-2047 | homemaid1@aol.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

CARPET / UPHOLSTERY / FLOORS 298-7374

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

HOME SERVICES

FLOORING

GUTTERS / WINDOWS / SIDING

ONE GUY & A MACHINE LAWN CARE

CARPET REPAIRS & RESTRETCHING

GUTTER CLEANING & LEAF GUARDS. 5 and 6” seamless gutters. Free estimates. Call Gary the Gutter Guy. (336) 345-6518. www.a1copperrooﬁng.com.

paver patios, block walls, hedges trimmed,

TLC LAWN CARE Lawn mowing, fertilization and weed control. General cleanup. Affordable all-season lawn maintenance. (336) 681-0097.

Licensed & insured. 643-6500.

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES HOUSE & YARD HOME MAINTENANCE “Anything to improve your home and property.” Jeff Ziglar, 456-9992 or 643-9609.

VINYL SIDING REPAIRS, vinyl railings & siding, replacement windows, gutter cleaning and repair. Please call 215-8776 for your free estimate.

OLD SCHOOL Licensed & Insured

Lisa & Jerry Potkay, Stokesdale

(336) 669-7252

oldschoolsjhr@triad.rr.com oldschoolsjhr.homestead.com

Bathroom Remodeler | Additions | Decks

Professional, Honest, Reliable

HOME REPAIR, LLC

Home Improvement & Repairs

GREENERTIMES SMALL ENGINE Sales & service center. Stokesdale.

9428 NC 65,

(336) 312-3844 mobile or

(336) 548-9286 ofﬁce. ALL ABOUT THE HOUSE. General home repair. Will take the lead on, or assist you with your home projects. 644-8710 / 708-0522.

The Northwest Observer Keeping you connected for 17 years

GRADING / HAULING ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt available. Zane Anthony, 362-4035. BRAD’S BOBCAT SVC. Grading, hauling, gravel/dirt, debris removal. 362-3647. GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, ﬁll dirt, gravel, etc. 362-1150.

MAYS SIDING Storm damage, facia and siding repairs. 215-8776, www.mayssiding.com.

LAWN CARE / LANDSCAPING MULCH, single-ground, $10 per 3-yard scoop. Tandem load delivered, $100 (about 10 yards). Oak Ridge area, 803-2195. BRAD’S BOBCAT. Landscaping, driveways, patios, sidewalks, concrete work. 362-3647.

GreenScapes Snow Removal • Tree Cutting Concrete Sidewalks / Driveways Landscaping • Lot / Land Clearing Stump Grinding / Removal Bobcat & Dump Truck Services Leaf Removal • Parking Lot Cleanup

Call Tony - office (336) 215-4531 STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Locally owned and operated. Lic/ins. 30 yrs. exp. Bucket truck & chipper, total cleanup. 24-hr. emergency svc. OR, NC. 643-1119. WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Complete lawn care & landscaping. NC lic. irrigation contractor. 20 years exp. Hardscaping, fertilization & weed control. 399-7764. CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, 643-9332. CarolinaStumpAndTreeServiceNC.com.

and hardscaping.

Maintenance, design,

beds re-edged, pine needles, mulch, pressure washing, chemical applications, aerating. Licensed & insured. Free est. Call 3824767. www.oneguyandamachine.com. STUMP GRINDING – FREE ESTIMATES Big or small, we grind them all. 382-3860. D & D LANDSCAPING & IRRIGATION Complete landscaping services. Retaining walls & patios. Member BBB. NC licensed irrigation contractor. 312-2706. LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS

MASONRY MASONRY CONCEPTS, brick, block, stone, concrete & repairs. Free estimates. (336) 988-1022, www.masonryconceptsgso.com. SOUTHERN STYLE CONCRETE and Landscape. It’s a perfect time to install a new stamped concrete patio with ﬁre pit for those cold winter nights, or to install a new driveway before the winter weather arrives. Call Tim for all your concrete needs. (336) 399-6619.

13-year anniversary special. We will beat your current written price by 15% – guaranteed! Call (336) 601-3796. GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree prun-

MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS GAS LOGS, WOOD STOVES & INSERTS, ﬁreplaces, sold, serviced and repaired. Call Don Hill, (336) 643-7183.

ing, complete lawn maintenance. 655-6490. ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call 382-9875. ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Bobcat work and more. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. Call Joe at 643-9157. AREA STUMP DUMP. Yard waste, concrete, etc. Fill dirt available. 602-5820.

RESTORATION SPECIALISTS DELIVERING AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE

Cabinet Refacing & Enhancement

Your kitchen and bathroom cabinetry can be refaced or re-colored to create a new look for your home at a fraction of the cost of replacement.

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

336/404-1471 www.fmbyjh.com

JUNK REMOVAL – appliances, batteries, mowers, cars, electronics, trash removal, etc. Call about free junk removal, 423-3006.

Get. Be. Stay. Connected.

facebook.com/NorthwestObserver

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

AFFORDABLE HOME REPAIR and remodeling. Providing electrical, plumbing, carpentry, painting and handyman services. No job too big or too small. (336) 899-0772. LOW-COST GARAGE DOORS. Repair & sales. 35 years exp. (336) 215-2800.

...continued on p. 20 JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

HOME SERVICES

MISC. SERVICES

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

JLB REMODELING INC. Licensed and insured. Free estimates. Remodeling, additions and home repairs. 681-2902, www.jlbremodeling.com.

NICOL CHRISTIAN SALON & BOUTIQUE Tina Harvell, owner, hairstylist, color specialist. 3054 Pleasant Ridge Road, Summerﬁeld, NC 27358. (336) 312-3846.

KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION

Triad Garage Doors

26 years experience. Specializing in room additions, garages, vinyl siding and win-

SALES, SERVICE & INSTALLATIONS

dows, painting, ceramic tile, laminate, hard-

(336) 501-6025 www.triadgaragedoors.com

wood and linoleum ﬂoors, and remodeling of all kinds. No job too small. Free est.

LiftMaster, Amarr, and all other brands Free estimates • Insured • 10 years experience

Tell our readers about your business!

Classiﬁeds are just $4/line!

Call 644-1943 or cell 362-7469.

TM Construction Services, INC. Licensed & Insured

www.nwobserver.com, or call Laura, 644-7035, ext. 10.

What’s going on around town?

644-8615 (office) 508-5242 (mobile)

Find us on facebook for updates! facebook.com/northwestobserver

PAINTING & DRYWALL

ROOFING

NC General Contractor License #72797

STILL PERFECTION PAINTING Scott

Still, 462-3683 or stillperfectionpainting.com. PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 32 years experience. Avg. size bedroom walls, $100. Sheetrock repair. Call Brad Rogers for your free estimate. (Local #) 314-3186.

Need some help? Email classiﬁeds@nwobserver.com

New construction, remodeling, kitchen and bath, additions, decks & patios. Call (336) 427-7391 or www.myrenovationworks.com. TRIPP SMITH CONSTRUCTION, LLC. Licensed general contractor with college degree in construction management and 18 years of experience. Specializing in decks, garages, additions, remodels, new job too large or too small. Free estimates.

Repair, remodel, well

pump. Lic/Ins. Accepts all major credit cards. Ofﬁce 656-0019, cell 382-6905. BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed.

POWER WASHING PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Call Crystal Clear. Fully insured. www.windowcleaningnc.com. 595-2873.

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

(336) 399-4894, trippsmithconstruction@ yahoo.com.

ON-TARGET

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC. Roof Replacements / Repairs Siding & Windows Custom Decks / Porches General Home Repairs Remodeling / Painting

T c. GicEes, In ARerv -Tction S OCoNnstru

Lic/Ins. Call Mark for savings. 337-7924.

Cathy Gold ( 336 ) 549-6460 4446 US Hwy 220 N, Summerfield

www.goldstandard4fitness.com COMPUTER REPAIRS $99. Used computers, website design. Info at ITBASICS.COM – (336) 643-0068. Inside Mailboxes & More, Oak Ridge Commons.

Residential rooﬁng, rubber ﬂat roofs, roof

RENOVATION WORKS INC.

construction, residential & commercial. No

PLUMBING

small group fitness  personal training  RealRyder® indoor cycle  TRX training 

CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC.

Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pres-

JDB PLUMBING.

MOBILE WELDING SERVICE Residential, wrought-iron fence & gates, custom fabrication, stainless aluminium. Chuck, triadmobilewelding.com, 362-8679.

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Place your ad online at

sure washing, handyman services.

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens & baths, rotted wood, decks, siding, windows, fall rooﬁng specialist. Sr. discounts, 35 years exp. 362-6343.

30 yrs exp • Workmanship guarantee • Insurance specialists

(336) 644-1580

FREE Estimates Insured & Dependable

coating, metal roofs. 30 years experience. Now accepting all major credit cards. Call 643-8191 or 580-3245. RED RHINO ROOFING, based in Oak Ridge, NC. Storm damage specialist experienced with all types of roofing. BBB accredited A and listed with Angie’s List. Call 662-7980, or visit redrhinoroofing.com. A.L. CORMAN ROOFING INC. Res. roofing specialist serving Guilford Cty. area since 1983. Member BBB 25+ years w/ A+ rating. cormanroofinginc.com, 621-6962.

MISC. SERVICES CORPORATE & PERSONAL TAX PREP, federal and state tax mediation, IRS/DOR, full accounting and payroll services, 37 years exp. Carolina Bookkeeping, 600 Washinton St., Eden NC. (336) 627-8969. FREE PICKUP of appliances, batteries, junk mowers, air conditioners, grills, electrical items, metal items, etc. 689-4167.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

available here

We carry moving & shipping supplies

(336) 643-9963 • 8207 B & G Court, Stokesdale

 MISC. FOR SALE GE Proﬁle Artica STAINLESS REFRIGERATOR, freezer on top. 68” high, 36” wide, 31” deep. Excellent condition. $400. Call Mike, (336) 687-6006. Oak Ridge. MOVING SALE! Reclining leather loveseat, dining set, computer desk, king-size bedding, dishes, chairs & more. Must be picked up by Jan. 27. (336) 644-0124. ALL NEW MATTRESS SETS. Still in plastic, w/ warranty. Twin, $99; Full, $109; Queen, $129; King, $191. Can deliver, layaway available. Mattress Outlet. 992-0025.

 MISC. FOR SALE

 PET / ANIMAL SERVICES

 REAL ESTATE

FIREWOOD

IN NEED OF A FAMILY

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

 REAL ESTATE DYNAMITE NEW LISTING!

SEASONED FIREWOOD, delivered & stacked. 1/2 cord, $80. Call 686-6373. FIREWOOD, seasoned hardwood, no pine. Pick up or delivery. 253-7615, 643-5744. SEASONED FIREWOOD, all hardwood, free delivery. Wood splitting avail. 543-3664.

Got stuff? Sell it here in the

classifieds submit your ad at

5715 Hidden Orchard Drive

COMMERCIAL RENTAL AVAILABLE! Located on Highway 158 in downtown Stokesdale. 4,200+ sf available for rent in ROCKY is a 7-year, 10-month old Boxer mix who enjoys spending time with people and going on walks. He gets jealous easily, so he prefers to be the only dog in the house. Rocky will be neutered as part of his adoption fee. For more information on Rocky or other animals looking for a home, visit www.adoptshelterpets.org, or call the Guilford County Animal Shelter at (336) 297-5020.

PET SITTING & BOARDING

 MISC. WANTED $$$ – WILL PAY CASH up to $200 for your junk or wrecked vehicle. 552-0328. FRUSTRATED THERE’S NO YOGA in Oak Ridge? Email if you’d like to take or teach a class: reachout2jo@gmail.com. WILL PAY CASH for riding lawn mower needing repair or free removal if unwanted. Also free pick-up of appliances, batteries, air conditioners, grills, metal items, computers, gas & electrical items. 689-4167.

Your NWO on the Go photos! Where do you take your Northwest Observer? Email your vacation photos to photos@nwobserver.com.

SPOIL-ME-ROTTEN ANIMAL CARE Motto: love, compassion, respect for your pets. Professional pet sitter for 18 years. Bonded/Insured. Member, Pet Sitters Intl. Provide food, exercise, play, meds/shots, much TLC. 1-3 trips/day. $15/trip (30 min). Call 643-5242. Oak Ridge/Summerﬁeld.

excellent location. Great location for business – doctors, accountants, lawyers, real-

Perfect home for everyone! Custom appointments, great location, in immaculate condition. Main-level master, 3/4 bedrooms, floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, jetted tub, granite, etc. Great storage and fenced, level yard. Offered at $319,500.

NANCY HESS, Realtor ® (336) 215-1820

tors, ﬁnancial. Absolutely beautiful standalone building.

Call (336) 544-2724 or

(561) 254-4387.

Is there one place I can go to find businesses, services and organizations in my area?

Yes!

The FINDER is the only local directory specific to northwest Guilford County.

 REAL ESTATE HOMES FOR RENT STOKESDALE, 3BR, 2BA, 1-acre lot in Stokesdale subdivision, $1,100/month. Rockingham County school district. csmith0314.cs@gmail.com.

Selling or Renting? Reach all of northwest Guilford County right here! Classiﬁeds are just $4/line, and can be placed online at www.nwobserver.com.

printed annually • online 24/7 at nwobserver.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

RESPONSES

since 2008. Our state of mind will have a lot to do with this increase. We plan ...continued from p. 1 to grow even more this year by working smarter and using all our resources to help “In 2013, we were blessed with sever- our clients have as little stress as possible al closings every month. Our agents had getting their loans closed. If you stay on to work much harder and be proactive top of everything, it creates a fun atmoto bring our clients to the closing table sphere instead of a load of stress. The while working with the banks, but we only way you can do this is to touch every were able to make it deal, every day and happen. communicate with “I think we’re all people involved Sometimes you have in every area, from seeing a true upturn in the economy. Our to create your own upturn inspections right up phones are busy. in the economy, and that’s to the day of closing.” Our agents are something we’ve tried to do.” Dawn Stone, busy. Land, includRealtor/owner David Wrenn, owner ing acreage and lots A New Dawn Realty Bi-Rite Galaxy, Stokesdale are finally selling Stokesdale again. There is new construction all around us. We have even “Our business in 2013 was stable, seen a small increase in sales of comwhich is a lot to be thankful for in commercial properties. We have been blessed mercial real estate. We grow with the to be a part of these increases. community and construction is com“We plan for 2014 to be our best year

ing back slowly in Oak Ridge, which

It’s that old inefficient heating system eating away at your savings

VELOCITY Air, Inc. Heating & A/C • Commercial & Residential

Sales, Service & Installation • 24-Hour Emergency Service Service Agreements • Duct Testing • Free Estimates service call* All Work Guaranteed • Licensed, Bonded & Insured when you mention this ad WE OFFER FINANCING

(336) 643-8100 | Stokesdale * Offer good during normal business hours. Expires 1/31/14

JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

foretells growth in 2014. We see the need for several new services such as the orthodontist opening in the near future. By nature, we are optimistic about now and the long term.” Jerry Cooke, owner Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center J.P. Monroe, LLC, Oak Ridge “We saw increases in 2013 over prior years. I’m thankful to our loyal customers for that. Sometimes you have to create your own upturn in the economy, and that’s something we’ve tried to do. “In the past year, I have invested a large amount on new equipment and as a result I have to see business increasing in 2014. To make that happen, we’ll continue to keep giving great deals and providing quality products.” David Wrenn, owner Bi-Rite Galaxy, Stokesdale “Last year was a good year for my business, which was a continuation of 2012.“ Overall, I think our local economy is improving, but it’s a slow improvement. If more jobs were available in this area, I think we would see a faster recovery. “From what I’m seeing now, 2014 promises to be another good year for my business. I plan to be proactive in finding people who are seeking financial advice and then work with them to develop sound financial plans. Across the country, approximately 10,000 baby boomers retire every single day. Many of these people are looking for financial advice. “One of my greatest strengths is building trusting relationships with my clients and staying in frequent communication – both during good times and bad times. I think people appreciate the fact that you’re there to provide advice and guidance to help them navigate through any financial storm. David Bowman, financial advisor Edward Jones, Oak Ridge

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

“We did really well in 2013 – in fact, we had a 30 percent increase in calls and sales. Right now, we’re seeing a decline in business but that’s based on the weather and recent holidays. We’re hoping for and expecting growth for the coming year. To meet those anticipated needs, we’re looking at expanding our business and further improving our service.” Jerry Potkay, owner Old School Small Job Home Repair Stokesdale “We opened in 2009 right in the middle of the Great Recession. The fact that we’re still here after five years says a lot for a small business like ours. In 2013, we held our own. We struggled with both the economy and losses in business that we incurred due to Goodwill moving into the shopping center. “We’ve stayed in business by changing our strategy and expanding our offerings. Not only have we added home furnishings and antiques, but we’ve become even more selective about the clothing we take. “Something else that’s helped us has been a change in people’s attitudes. I see people are really starting to go back to liking old things. It seems like we’re becoming less of a disposable society. My business partner, Paul, is extremely good at refurbishing and repurposing furniture and that’s been a highly valuable skill in making the business more profitable. “So far in 2014, we’re seeing a little bit of an upturn. We have more traffic, but it takes a really long time for people to even know you exist. One thing that would really help the area is if more people patronized the local businesses. When a local business goes out, I hear people talk about how they miss that business. Well, it’s too late then. If we all want a local economy with strong and diversified businesses, we need to make sure our dollars stay in the community.” Lisa Brulotte, owner Crossroads Consignments, Oak Ridge

display advertiser index

thanks to all

the advertisers who partnered with us to bring you this free community resource A/C & HeAting Stokesdale Heating & Air.......................5 Velocity Air, Inc. ...................................22

ACCounting Carlotta Lytton, CPA, PA ..................... 11 Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC.......15

Auto serviCe Tire Max Complete Car Care ...............17

CHiroprACtiC

LegAL serviCes

reAL estAte / mortgAge

Oak Ridge Chiropractic .........................4 Summerfield Family Chiropractic ......... 11

Attorney Bill Barbour ...........................14

CHurCHes

LeBauer HealthCare..............................5

A New Dawn Realty ............................ 11 Bobbie Gardner / Allen Tate ................10 Nancy Hess / Keller Williams ...............21 Ramily Siegel, Allen Tate .......................9 Ridgewood Realty................................ 11

Central Baptist Church ..................15, 16 Oak Ridge United Methodist Church .....6

misCeLLAneous

dentists

Commercial Property.............................8 UNC School of the Arts .........................3

Devaney Family Dentistry ....................12

Home produCts & serviCes

pet serviCes

BEK Paint ............................................10 Old School Small Job Home Repair .......7 ProStone Inc. ........................................8

Country Kennel ................................... 11 Northwest Animal Hospital .................. 11 Spoil-Me-Rotten Animal Care, Inc. ......10 Westergaard Kennels...........................10

insurAnCe

pubLisHing Co / newspAper

Gladwell Insurance Agency....................9 Triad Insurance......................................3

The Northwest FINDER .......................10 The Northwest Observer......................24

Stokesdale Summerfield Oak Ridge

mediCAL

restAurAnts Ruby Tuesday .................................Insert

retAiL BiRite Food Center ................................2

sCHooLs / presCHooLs Mt. Pisgah Weekday School.................14

speCiAL events Center The Longhouse ................................... 11

Target northwest

Guilford County Advertise in a relevant, widely read publication that is directly mailed to 10,500 homes and distributed for free pickup

For advertising information, contact Laura Troeger, associate publisher (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 | advertising@nwobserver.com

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JAN. 24 - 30, 2014

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Postal Patron

Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22

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

Dick Schroer of Oak Ridge was in Antarctica for two weeks in December 2013, and of course he took the Northwest Observer along to keep him warm!

ECRWSS

Becky Grammer and Kathy Linville caught up on the local news while visiting the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland.

Where do you take your Northwest Observer? Email your photo to photos@nwobserver.com The Molnar family and their friends Caroline Donato and Colét Wagoner, all of Summerfield, took a breather to read the Northwest Observer in front of Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. (Front row, left to right, ladies) Kaitlyn Molnar, Colét Wagoner, Caroline Donato, Maggie Molnar; (Back row, left to right, men) Michael Molnar, Matthew Molnar, Christopher Molnar.

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