Northwest Observer | Jan. 31 - Feb. 6, 2014 by pscommunications

Jan. 31 - Feb. 6, 2014

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

Thank you, Troy, for 50 years of service

On Jan. 28, Troy Stantliff celebrated 50 years of volunteering with the Summerﬁeld Fire Department by PATTI STOKES SUMMERFIELD – Troy Stantliff, 68, remembers the day he turned 18. It was Jan. 28, 1964, and heading to the Summerfield Fire Department was at the top of his To Do list. There

was no emergency, but on this day he was officially old enough to become a volunteer firefighter, and he wanted to be among the first to respond if an emergency call came in.

...continued on p. 22

Trapped under a tractor in a remote corner of 620 acres, Ed Malone escapes serious injury

Troy Stantliff stands beside a plaque placed on the Summerﬁeld Fire Department’s training building in his honor last month. Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

We asked local business owners

Are you feeling the effects of an economy turnaround? NW GUILFORD – Is the economy headed in the right direction, and if your answer is yes, can you feel it yet in your bottom line? What did you do to prepare for 2014, and how optimistic are you of what the year will bring to your business? These were some of the questions we asked recently when we polled several local business professionals, ranging from builders to restaurant owners to Realtors to home improvement specialists to attorneys. With no shortage of responses, we continue this week with a second round. 

“My business was steady in 2013 compared to the previous year. It was another good year as extremely low interest rates kept people in the market for homes and properties. The only downside was the lack of a good inventory of homes for my buyers to consider. “Everything is looking like the economy will remain on a small, but steady trend upwards. Once again, low interest rates should be enough incentive for people to be anxious to jump into homes and

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58 acres rezoned from AG to PD-R The development, which will extend Angels Glen, is in the Highway 158 Stokesdale Bypass study area by PATTI STOKES STOKESDALE – It’s been a while since the northwest Guilford County area has seen much activity on the residential development front, so you may find yourself a little rusty on abbreviations for zoning districts. Take, for example, PD-R, which stands for Planned Unit Development-Residential. On Jan. 23 the Stokesdale Town Council unanimously approved a request from developer Kevan Combs to rezone 58.4 acres at the terminus of Adano Road from AG (Agricultural) to PD-R. A PD-R typically accommodates a variety of housing types that are often clustered together on smaller lots in exchange

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IN THIS ISSUE News in brief.......................3

 Unattended dog tethering banned, council holds water system workshops, town park master plan and CIP approved Your Questions ...................4 Stokesdale Town Council .8 Student Proﬁles ................10 Crime/Incident Report ....10 Bits & Pieces ..................... 11 Community Calendar.....15 Letters/Opinions .............16 Grins & Gripes .................. 17 Classiﬁeds ........................18 Index of Advertisers ........23

1917 Granville Rd - $1,295,000 - Stunning hm with over 5500 sq ft in the heart of Old Irving Park! All the new amenities of today. One block from Greensboro Country Club. Open living area perfect for entertaining. 3-car garage. Outdoor fireplace and kit. WEB ID #: 683267 Mark Yost 336-707-6275

291 Darla Drive - $668,000 - Get away from it all in this 5100+ sf/16+ac/4BR/4BA “low country” estate w/Mstr on mn, incredible kit, fin bsmt, salt H20 pool, hot tub on multilvl deck, wrap-around porch w/covrd wlkway. WEB ID #: 680383 Waban Carter 336-601-6363

3614 Camden Falls Circle - $624,500 – Custom-built former Parade Home in gated com. Spectacular millwork & detail! Top-of-the-line kitchen w/ Viking appliances. Beautiful den w/ coffered ceiling; wet bar. ML mst w/ double walk-in closet. 2 bonus rms. WEB ID #: 686474 Mark Yost 336-707-6275

7105 Henson Farm Way - $569,900 – Custom-built 4BR/4BA brick home in Henson Farms! 10-ft ceil down, 9-ft up, Open bright flr pln w/mstr on mn, rec room & exercise room, prvt back yard. WEB ID #: 692112 Judith Judy 336-339-2324

904 Northern Shores Dr - $568,000 - Incredible Lake Jeanette custom home in desireable Northern Shores. Impeccable quality & meticulously maintained! 5BR/4BA, cozy den opens to gourmet kit w/ top quality applc, 3-car garage. WEB ID #: 694928 Melissa Greer 336-337-5233

979 Old Greensboro Rd - $549,000 - 22 secld ac. 1-of-a-kind property! 3br/2ba, 1 lvl hm w/ lots of incred views, fenced & terraced deck w/Meredith Pool (20x41 ft) Open flowing rooms w/generous eating bar opening from kitchen-greatroom. WEB ID #: 657705 Deryle Peaslee-Wood 336-601-4765

611 Mashie Dr - $495,000 - Incredible custom home with scenic golf course views! Gourmet kitchen w/ top of the line applc, granite c-tops, tile back splash, Deluxe mstr suite w/ luxurious bath, stone gas fp. WEB ID #: 662678 Melissa Greer 336-337-5233

7648 Henson Forest Dr - $495,000 - Beautifully appointed 4 BR/3.5 bath hm with bonus rm. Gorgeous kitchen opens to keeping rm w/ stone gas log fireplace. Main level master BR w/ lg bath. LR/office with built-ins & double tray ceiling. 3-car garage. WEB ID #: 687885 Mark Yost 336-707-6275

6310 Poplar Forest - $484,500 - Fabulous flexible floor plan! 4BR/4BA former Parade home in Henson Forest, huge master suite w/ sitting rm, over-the-top luxury in the master bath, two story den w/ stone frplc, private bck yrd and much more. Must See! WEB ID #: 691784 Suzanne Rock 336-272-0151

2700 Lunsford Rd - $442,500 - Beautiful 4BR/3.5BA, 1.5 story brick home on 1.04 ac in Lochmere subdivison! Master w/ fireplace, meticulously maintained, excellent school district! Great yard for a pool! Professionally decorated! WEB ID #: 685214 Jacqeline Worsham 336-937-2616

1413 Loch Lomond Dr - $415,000 - “Stunning hm w/ scrn prch overlooking lg prvt lot in Lennox Woods! 4BR/3BA, bonus, office, huge ornate kit, wired sound syst, hrdwd flrs, granite c-tops, SS applc, full pantry, 3-car garage, & MORE! Priced to sell! WEB ID #: 694315 Jeremiah Hawes 336-455-3997

3041 Forest Vale - $414,000 - Grand home! Prime location! 4BR, 4.5BA on 1.5 ac cul-de-sac. Fin. basement. Bonus, playroom, office space. Lots of updates. Northern schools. WEB ID #: 688626 Annette Joyce 336-382-8629

6324 Cape Wedgewood Circle - $393,000 - Lake view! Nestled in the woods, resort like setting. Beautiful custom home w/ prvt unique setting on lrg lot w/ access to walking trails, elegant moldings, Great open floor plan, granite countertops. WEB ID #: 676929 Joe Tomlinson 336-362-9336

8501 Hudson James - $349,900 - 5.12 acre mini-farm, 3300+ sq.ft 3BR/3.5BA Home, barn, workshop, fenced yard, NW schools. WEB ID #: 677897 Annette Joyce 336-382-8629

138 Hush Hickory - $275,000 - 4BR/4BA on .92 acres. Mstr on main. Addl potential master on 2nd. office, XL bonus rm. Hrdwds & tile. Rocking chair porch w/ceiling fans. WEB ID #: 670700 Annette Joyce 336-382-8629

4617 Kinnakeet Way - $275,000 - 4BR/2.5BA home in Alexander Pointe! Dramatic 2-story entry w/ attractive stairway w/ separate back steps into kit, beautiful hardwood floors on mn, screened porch. A Must See! WEB ID #: 694375 Melissa Greer 336-337-5233

9056 Mount Carmel - $250,000 - Enjoy country living without sacrificing city convenience, 3BR/3BA remodeled farmhouse on 13.85 ac. Be lulled to sleep by the sound of the rain hitting the metal roof. WEB ID #: 668973 Annette Joyce 336-382-8629

2814 Norwell Ct - $244,000 - Rare find in Oak Ridge! 4BR, quiet cul-de-sac, big, pvt lot. 2-stry GR, open flr plan. Lge Mstr Suite. Granite in eat-in kitch. 2-car grge, fresh pain, new carpet. WEB ID #: 675861 Waban Carter 336-601-6363

6930 Maynard Road - $177,500 - 3BR/2BA ranch hm w/ many updates that include, new SS appl, carpet, renovated mstr bath steam shower, tile, replaced vanities, fixtures, new granite c-tops & hardwood flrs! You’ll just have to come and see it! WEB ID #: 685167 Beth Brannan 336-253-4693

2222 Lane Rd - $165,000 - 3BR/2BA Renovated hm w/ gorgeous kit w/ granite, SS appl, MB w/ sep shwer. Lovely high vanities w/ one piece c-tops, sunrm with granite shelved pass thru, slate wood burning fp wired for flat screen above! MUST SEE! WEB ID #: 694226 Beth Brannan 336-253-4693

705 Robinhood - $159,900 - Absolutely precious, TOTALLY remodeled, brick 3bd/2ba, granite kitchen & fireplace, large lot! Strg bldg, very open! Near Monroeton Schl. WEB ID #: 676125 Deryle Peaslee-Wood 336-601-4765

5811 Stoney Glen - $159,000 - Great location! 3BR/2.5BA. Roof, siding, deck replaced in 2011. Master suite with dual closets & dressing area. Fenced backyard, garden space & patio. Basement. WEB ID #: 680081 Annette Joyce 336-382-8629

5003 Hiddenbrook Ct - $134,900 - Charming 3BR/2BA allbrick ranch on quiet cul-de-sac & .45ac lot. Open den/kit features gas log frplc w/brick surround/hearth & 2 skylights. Formal LR/DR, brick patio, 1-car garage. WEB ID #: 690887 Waban Carter 336-601-6363

7006-7014 Summerfield Rd - $110,000 - Approx 2 ac on Summerfield Rd near HWY 220. Commercial potential. Well & septic in place. Survey on file. Below tax value. Buildings at no value. WEB ID #: 685256 Deryle Peaslee-Wood 336-601-4765

3515 Oneida - $49,900 - Great acreage to build on, NW (old house at no value). Convenient location, wooded, flat land & great NW schools, septic & well already in place! WEB ID #: 682984 Deryle Peaslee-Wood 336-601-4765

Greensboro (N. Elm) 644-1100 | Greensboro (Friendly Center) 370-4000 | Greensboro (Adams Farm) 854-1333 ©2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

NEWS in brief

Towns ban tethering of unattended dogs OAK RIDGE/STOKESDALE – After much debate and years in the making, the Guilford County commissioners voted in November to ban unattended dog tethering, or chaining, on private property. In December the Town of Oak Ridge followed suit, and last week the Stokesdale Town Council did the same. Each of the municipalities’ animal control ordinances has been updated to reflect the change. Supporters of the ban have argued that it is inhumane to leave dogs unattended for long periods of time while chained or tethered, and say the dogs can become ill or injured from struggling to free themselves. According to the Humane Society of the United States, dogs tethered for long periods can also become highly aggressive. “Dogs feel naturally protective of their territory; when confronted with a perceived threat, they respond according to their fight-orflight instinct. A chained dog, unable to take flight, often feels forced to fight, attacking any unfamiliar animal or person who unwittingly wanders into his or her territory,” reads a statement on the Society’s website. “Furthermore, a tethered dog who finally does get loose from his chains may remain aggressive, and is likely to chase and attack unsuspecting passersby and pets.” The local ban on tethering defines the practice as: “tying out or fastening a dog outdoors on a rope, chain or other type of line for hold-

NEXT TIME TAKE THE STAIRS. YOUR HEART WILL THANK YOU. The towns of Oak Ridge and Stokesdale recently voted to ban unattended dog tethering.

ing a dog.” The ban does not apply to situations where a tethered dog “is in visual range of its owner or keeper, and the owner or keeper is located outside with the dog.” Dog owners will now be required to enclose an area on their property for any unattended dogs, or to only tether a dog when someone is present to supervise the animal. Opponents of the ordinance say being forced to enclose an area of their property, and to spend money on their personal property, is a violation of their private property owner’s rights. The ordinance against unattended tethering will be phased in during an 18-month period; during this time no citations involving fines will be issued. When fines are issued, they will be $100 for a first violation, with repeated offenses incurring higher fines.

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online: nwobserver.com e-mail: questions@nwobserver.com Why aren’t there bleachers on the football fields at Oak Ridge Town Park? We pay to get in for the Pop Warner games but there’s nowhere to sit unless we bring our own chairs. The lack of bleachers and cost of admission to the games are actually two separate issues governed by two different entities. The Town of Oak Ridge, which has the ultimate responsibility for what features are included in the park, decided not to install bleachers on the fields for a number of reasons. “These fields were designed to be multi-purpose fields,” explains Terry Lannon, Oak Ridge Director of Parks and Recreation. “For example, in the fall both soccer and football are using the fields. The configuration of a football field would prohibit soccer from configuring their field setup. They have as many as four fields set up on one field.” Occupancy and its effect on the number of toilets was another consideration. “Bleachers can affect the occupancy load in relation to the number of water closets required at the facility,” says Lannon. “It was determined that the size and cost of the existing restroom facility at the park trumped putting in bleachers on the fields.” Finally, bleachers would have made

JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

Bleachers were not placed on the multi-purpose ﬁelds of the Oak Ridge Town Park for several reasons, explains Terry Lannon, the town’s parks and recreation director.

maintenance much more costly and the fields potentially less attractive. “Not having bleachers out there allows for more uniform irrigation and ease of maintenance,” says Lannon. “Both of these factors diminish cost through savings of both labor and material. “These fields are cut at 3/4 inches with a specialized reel mower and we mow these areas with a 116-inch cutting pass,” continues Lannon. “You can’t weed-eat

Bermuda without scalping it. With one guy cutting the fields up to three times per week in the heavy growing season, it would be impossible for him to move sets of bleachers by himself. We’d be resodding quite a bit, since the foot traffic would be in a more compressed area. So, aside from a better looking and healthier stand of grass, that’s a huge timesaver. Top-dressing, fertilization and weed control can be done more uniformly as well.”

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weeks. I know they usually do this for a week at a time. This seems a little extreme and I wondered if anyone knew about this or if there was a different reason for this type of process. Operated by the City of Greensboro, this particular fire hydrant flushes 24/7, 365 days a year. “That hydrant is the end of the water line for the city,” says David Wells, crew supervisor at the Mitchell Water Treatment Plant in Greensboro. “We flush for water quality in order to meet state standards.”

Photo by Laura Pullins/NWO

Though there was no water coming out of this ﬁre hydrant near the GTCC campus under construction when we went by, we’re told by a City of Greensboro crew supervisor that it ﬂushes 24/7, 365 days a year.

There is a fire hydrant on NC 68 about .3 miles north of Peeples Road, just before the new GTCC campus on the right if you are coming from Oak Ridge. I’ve noticed it has been flushing for at least six

Wells explains that the water has to travel a long way from the treatment plants to reach the outlying areas of the city, or in this case, the county. By the time it reaches those areas, the age of the water can adversely affect the quality. By continuously flushing the system, the water isn’t allowed to sit in the pipes and collect debris. Wells adds that someone from the plant goes out to check the hydrant about twice a week to make sure everything is running properly. He also mentions that this automatic flushing continues even when we’re in a drought situation. “It’s all about public safety and keeping the quality of water up to standard,” he says. “However, we try not to waste anything we don’t have to.”

Contrary to rumor, this vacant 1.2-acre lot beside the Village Store in Oak Ridge will not be home to an auto parts store.

What’s going on with the vacant property beside the Village Store on NC 68 in Oak Ridge, where the Bank of Oak Ridge was initially located several years ago? I had heard there was going to be some type of auto parts store to be built there. There was some truth to what you heard – there was a potential buyer for this property who had an interest in building an auto parts store on it. However, local developer and Twilight Outparcel partner Jerry Cooke, who originally owned the property and sold it to the bank, had first right of refusal if the property was resold. The 1.2-acre tract was purchased by Twilight Outparcel,

LLC in June 2013 for $500,000. According to Philip Cooke, a partner of Twilight Outparcel, the company felt it made good business sense to repurchase the property. The parcel is currently on the market with commercial real estate company CBRE and zoned commercial limited business for office use. The For Sale sign posted on the property actually lists two parcels – the 1.2-acre tract and another 2.4-acre tract. The second parcel is owned by J.P. Monroe, LLC, another company operated by the Cookes, and is located beside Northwest Animal Hospital. The land was previously used as a septic drain field but the field has been relocated.

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NEWS in brief

...continued from p. 3

Want to serve?

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

A 58.4-acre tract of land off Angel Pardue Road was recently rezoned from AG to PD-R. The development will have 44 homes and be an extension of the Angels Glen neighborhood.

REZONED ...continued from p. 1 for large open spaces within the development. A PD-R may also include neighborhood business and office uses which are primarily there to serve nearby residents. Combs’ development will not have businesses or offices, however. And though houses will be clustered on smaller lots, when factoring in the open space, the average lot density will still exceed the town’s minimum required lot density of 40,000 square feet. The development will have 44 homes and be an extension of the Angels Glen neighborhood off Angel Pardue Road. The homes in the development will be connected to Stokes-

dale’s municipal water system. Though the development is within a study area for the U.S. 158 Stokesdale Bypass, Les Eger of the Guilford County Planning Department said when presenting the rezoning request that there are “no official studies saying definitely the highway will be going there …” The U.S. 158 widening project will encompass 18.8 miles and be built in three sections. The third and final section is the Stokesdale Bypass, a 6.5-mile stretch which will begin north of Anthony Road in Stokesdale and end at US 220 in Guilford County. Three alternative routes have been proposed for this section, but no decisions have been made as to which one will be selected. This phase of the project has been reprioritized, meaning it is not currently ranked high enough to receive funding.

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The Stokesdale Town Council is seeking volunteers to serve on several committees, including Public Safety, Economic Development, Long-Term Financial, Holiday Parade, Water, and Transportation/US 158 Stokesdale

Bypass. For a complete list of committees or to download an application, visit www.stokesdale.org. If interested in serving on a committee, email stokesdale@stokesdale.org or call 643-4011.

Master plan, CIP appoved OAK RIDGE – The Oak Ridge Town Council met on Jan. 27 to consider adopting the town park master plan and a 5-year capital improvement plan (CIP). Both plans are requirements of the PARTF grant application which will be submitted to the state for Phase II of the town park. Terry Lannon, director of Parks and Recreation, stated he submitted the grant two weeks ago for critique, and a park master plan and capital improvement plan were the two items missing which would have kept the town from qualifying

for the maximum number of points.

STOKESDALE – Stokesdale’s municipal water system was installed in 2003 after the town received a grant from the state to address contamination issues. With a new mayor, Randy Braswell, and the recent swearing in of new council members Vicki White-Lawrence and Gary Albert, the council feels a need to become more educated about the town’s water system; it also wants to find ways to entice residents to connect to the system. Stokesdale’s water system includes 18 miles of water lines. About 335 homes and businesses have voluntarily connected to the system – and the system has the capacity to serve many more; the town is contractually bound to purchase 300,000 gallons of water a day from the City of

Winston-Salem, but only uses about onethird of that amount. The town council held a workshop on Jan. 24 to discuss the water system, and in future weekly workshops it plans to develop a strategy to educate citizens on the benefits of connecting to the water system, review the policies and procedures relating to operating the system, devise incentives for citizens to connect to the system, and finalize action plans for past due accounts. Want to attend? Water system workshops will be held on Friday afternoons at 3 p.m. at the town hall on Angel Pardue Road. For more info, call the town hall at 643-4011 or email stokesdale@stokesdale.org.

“The CIP is a road map of future equipment and project costs,” said Lannon. “We drafted a 5-year plan, which includes fiscal years 2013–2017.” In separate votes, the council approved the master plan and adopted the 5-year CIP. For a detailed description of the plans for the Oak Ridge Town Park, visit www.oakridgenc.com, click the link “Oak Ridge Town Park,” and select Phase II in the drop-down menu.

Council holds water system workshops

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STOKESDALE town council

Jan. 21 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by PATTI STOKES  Mayor Randy Braswell called the meeting to order and the opening prayer was led by Pastor David Bailey of Crossroads Community Church. The agenda was adopted after adding an update on the fire window/curtain in the town hall meeting room and a closed session for discussing a personnel issue. Minutes from the May 21 and June 18, 2013 council meetings were approved.  Deputy Scott Casey reported that 12 of the calls received in December generated incident reports, and two arrests were made.  Annual audit. A representative of Cannon & Company presented the annual audit report, noting revenue in the general operating account increased last fiscal year.

The water enterprise fund, however, operated at a net loss of $123,774; much of this was attributed to equipment depreciation of $100,184.  The town has net assets of $4.38 million and as of June 30, 2013, had available cash of $3,555,848.

PUBLIC HEARING  Les Eger of the Guilford County Planning Department presented a rezoning request for 58.4 acres located at the end of Adano Road, off Angel Pardue Road. Owner Kevan Combs wishes to rezone the property from AG (Agricultural) to PD-R (Planned Unit DevelopmentResidential), and extend the Angels Glen neighborhood.

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The PD-R district is intended to accommodate a variety of housing types developed on large tracts in accordance with a unified development plan. The district also accommodates neighborhood business and office uses which primarily serve nearby residents.

cal water supply plan can be viewed at www.NCWater.org.

40

to purchase a Knox Box, at a cost not to exceed $200, and place it outside the town hall entrance door so the fire department has access to the town hall building in case of an emergency. The fire department has one key to access all commercial properties with a Knox Box.

I thought it was awesome that so many people showed interest in serving. Regardless of whether you get appointed, I am assuming you (the other applicants) are going to be on some committee, right?”

Eger presented a map showing where 44 homes, offsite septic, open space and  Town council roads would be appointment. located on the Mayor Braswell 58.4-acre tract. said the town The proposed council had six open space/ Randy Braswell, applicants for the common area, mayor of Stokesdale vacant council which would be seat. dedicated to the Homeowners Associa“I thought it was awesome that so tion, would be 20 acres. many people showed interest in servFor more details about this rezoning, see ing,” Braswell said. “Regardless of article on the front cover. whether you get appointed, I am assuming you (the other applicants) are going  4  0 to approve the rezoning request and accompanying map/unified to be on some committee, right? development plan. Councilman Bill Jones said he had re Animal tethering. Town Attorney Bill Trevorrow explained that an amendment to the Guilford County Animal Control ordinance has been approved by the Guilford County commissioners, and the town is being asked to also approve the ordinance to ensure uniformity in enforcement. The text amendment prohibits the tethering, or chaining of unattended animals that spend prolonged periods of time outdoors.

 4  0 to adopt the amendment

to the town’s animal control ordinance. For more details about the text amendment, see News Briefs, p. 3

 4  0 to approve a resolution

in support of submitting a local water supply plan to the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources, as required by state statute, and to update it periodically. A copy of the town’s lo-

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

viewed all the applications and wanted to nominate Gary Albert. “He put his name in the hat first (Albert ran for town council last year) and he paid his $5 (filing fee).” Councilman Frank Bruno agreed that it “was nice to see everyone step up and put their application in,” and seconded Jones’ motion to nominate Albert. When Councilwoman Vicki WhiteLawrence said she was surprised because she hadn’t seen an application for Albert, Braswell said that may have been his fault. “I told him there was no need because he had been through the $5 application fee already. I will stand by that.” To that, White-Lawrence said she understood the council could appoint anyone it wanted to, but she thought everyone was going to put in their application.

 4  0 to appoint Gary Albert to

fill the empty council seat. Albert was immediately sworn into office by Town Clerk Carolyn Joyner and took his seat with the other council members.

 5  0 to authorize Jones to write

a letter to the company that installed a fire curtain/wall in the town hall meeting room, officially requesting in writing that it be repaired; the fire marshal will be copied on the letter and the company will be given a deadline to respond. After recessing for an executive session to discuss a personnel issue, the council reconvened at 7:50 p.m.  Parade entry fees. White-Lawrence, who chairs the Holiday Parade committee, was asked to give a recommendation as to whether parade entry fees would be refunded since the parade had been cancelled in December because of inclement weather. About $1,050 was received in donations and entry fees; non-reimbursable expenses relating to the parade totaled $1,333.14, including $309 for portable toilets that were delivered before the decision to cancel the parade had been made. “The town has already lost $283.14 and I motion there will be no refund of the entry fees,” Braswell said. After hesitation, Bruno seconded.

 4  1 to not refund parade entry fees (White-Lawrence opposed).

 Town committees. Council agreed it was a goal to get more citizen participation on town committees.  The Budget/Finance committee will hold its first meeting to begin work on the 2014/2015 FY budget on Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 4 p.m. at the town hall; the public is invited to attend.  Roads & Transportation/US 158 committee. Bruno said he felt the town should determine which of the alternative routes for the US 158 Stokesdale Bypass it preferred and be proactive. “We just approved a development that is in one of those (alternative)

paths. We can let them (DOT) make that decision or we can make the decision and push them a certain way,” Bruno said. White-Lawrence agreed to contact the people who had initially signed up to serve on this committee, which has been inactive, to see if they are still interested in serving.  Administrative. Joyner noted some of the financial transactions for the third quarter: • $16,439.78 paid for law enforcement • Council members were paid their stipends • $3,050 was paid to Guilford County for animal control for the quarter. • The town received $64,720.17 in utility franchise fees.

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 5  0 to approve $800 ($400 each) for White-Lawrence and Albert to attend a government training class through the NC School of Government in Chapel Hill. ANNOUNCEMENTS  Council planned a workshop on Jan. 23 to meet with technology vendors regarding the phone system, computer upgrades, and upgrades on the security cameras; a second workshop was planned on Jan. 24 to discuss the water system.

 Braswell thanked Sue and Craig Lukens for their donations to the library and Craig for helping with technology issues at the town hall.  Jones said the council would love to have more volunteers on committees.  Change in meeting day. Effective February, the Stokesdale Town Council will meet on the third Thursday of the month (rather than the third Tuesday). The next meeting will be held Thursday, Feb. 20, 7 p.m. at the town hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. Have a question? Contact the town hall at 643-4011 or stokesdale@stokesdale.org.

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. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

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

NORTHWEST

Favorite movie: Despicable Me

Chorus

Any siblings? Three younger brothers Best vacation ever: Italy and Greece

EMMA FOSTER, senior

Years in the northwest area: Eight

Hometown: Oak Ridge

Dream job: Working with pediatric cancer patients

Toughest class: AP Calculus Extracurricular activities: Interact Club, Horseback riding, volunteering with Burmese refugees, Out of the Garden Project Favorite food: Kiha Favorite band: Soundtrack from Despi-

DESIGNERS

CRIME / INCIDENT report The District 1 Sheriff’s Ofﬁce has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest Guilford County. JAN. 25 | During a routine traffic stop THEFT JAN. 22 | A resident of Trosper Road in northwest Greensboro reported a known suspect entered the home by breaking a basement window, then stole a Tootsie Roll container with about $15 in change. The property damage is estimated at $50.

ASSAULT

Interesting/fun fact about yourself: I love to ride horses

JAN. 24 | A resident of Warner Road in Kernersville reported being assaulted by a known person.

What part do you sing in the chorus? Alto 2

DRUGS & ALCOHOL

Chorus teacher Tres Ward’s comments: “Emma is a scholastic student and a role model for all.”

JAN. 22 | During a suspicious vehicle investigation on Myers Fork Road in Summerfield, officers arrested a driver for DUI and driving with a suspended license.

READY-TO-WEAR COLLECTIONS

WINNER

B I G N I G H T O F FA S H I O N

FRIDAY, FEB. 21 at the Elm St. Center, Downtown Greensboro Buy tickets at goodwillrocktherunway.org Proceeds benefit Triad Goodwill

SPONSORED BY:

JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

on NC 68 in Oak Ridge, officers made an arrest for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

BREAKING & ENTERING JAN. 25 | A resident of Oak Level Church Road in Stokesdale reported someone entered her unlocked vehicle while it was parked at the Food Lion in Oak Ridge and stole a GPS, wallet and cash. The loss was estimated at $235.

MISCELLANEOUS JAN. 22 | Officers investigated a misuse of the emergency call system at a residence on Crosscreek Road in Kernersville after the resident made 26 calls to 911 over a short period of time.

BITS and PIECES

Cristina Gherghe, MD, PhD

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

After completing her medical education in Romania, Dr. Gherghe studied at UNC Chapel Hill and obtained her PhD title. She recently completed her endocrinology fellowship at University of Virginia.

Although it was 35 degrees on Saturday, Jan. 25, these three sweet girls, Ava Johnston, 6, (far left), Sophia Sheppard, 5, and Madelyn Johnston, 8, bundled up and braved the cold temperatures to sell Girl Scout cookies at the Harris Teeter on Battleground Avenue/Horse Pen Creek Road. The Girl Scouts will be selling cookies over the next several weeks – if you can’t find them, however, there’s an app to help you out. Download the official Girl Scout cookie finder app at www.girlscouts.org/program/gs_cookies/find_cookies.asp.

In the fall of 2013, she joined LeBauer after moving back to Greensboro with her husband and their 8-year-old daughter. She is particularly interested in improving patient awareness through nutritional counseling and helping them fully understand their conditions.

LeBauer Endocrinology 301 East Wendover Avenue, Suite 211 Greensboro LOCATION HOURS 8am- 5pm | Mon - Fri (336) 832-3070

www.lebauer.com

A Member Of

MEDICAL GROUP

Dr. Gherghe is now accepting new patients and referrals Please call the office to schedule a prompt, convenient appointment

GCS students receive reading reward GCS students were challenged to read at least 300 minutes over the winter break. Students who achieved the goal were entered into a drawing for a chance to win an iPad mini or a gift card from Barnes & Noble or Acme Comics. Elementary and middle school students also qualified for a complimentary ticket to the Feb. 1 UNCG men’s basketball game. More than 9,100 students met the challenge. The challenge was part of Roadmap 2 Reading, the school district’s literacy initiative that encouraged students to read at least 20 minutes each day as

DID YOU KNOW?

part of a virtual journey from Cape Hatteras to San Francisco. At last week’s State of Our Schools event, Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green announced GCS students read more than 222,670,354 minutes – that’s more than 423 years!

Get. Be. Stay. Connected

Media specialists from all the schools that accomplished the cross-country journey were entered into a surprise drawing. Four won $1,000 to buy books and e-books for their media centers: Peck, Irving Park and Sedalia Elementary and Northwest Middle schools.

Effective Feb. 3, 2014, cell phones, cameras, laptops, and other communication devices are prohibited in the courthouses except when a permit has been issued by a judge. For information, contact Craig Turner/trial administrator at (336) 412-7900 or email craigavon.r.turner@ nccourts.org.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

facebook.com/ NorthwestObserver

JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

Remnants

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RESPONSES ...continued from p. 1 lock in these great rates. These artificially low (government subsidized) rates will eventually have to increase when the governing leaders finally figure out that we are continuing to “kick the can down the road” when it comes to the budget deficit and debt. “I tell my clients that they have the unique opportunity to lock in their rates now, and then pay the money back with what will be less valuable dollars in the future. This is the exact opposite scenario to what I faced when I bought my first home in 1981 at a fixed interest rate of 17 percent. “For 2014, I plan to see about a 20 percent increase in volume due to a change in my client mix, the addition of more support staff, the introduction of new marketing strategies, and the use of technologies that I did not have with

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(336) 288-3335• mpws.org

JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

my previous company. “In addition to increasing my business by 20 percent or more, I still want to find time to enjoy life. Real estate can be a 24/7 occupation, which is why so many agents burn out quickly.” Gil Vaughan, Realtor Keller Williams Realty North Summerfield 2013 was a better year than 2012. Although our costs were up, sales were much better. I feel like there’s a little more momentum. People seem to be willing to spend more. I see us continuing to grow and to continue to see a modest increase in sales for 2014. I’m optimistic, but cautious. Mickie Tingen, franchise owner Domino’s Pizza Oak Ridge and Summerfield “My business volume was consistent with 2011 and 2012. Gross revenue was flat for the three-year period, but net was down because we added staff to handle the increase in project count for the year. “I definitely see a better environment starting off this year than I did last. We are seeing more projects and higher quality projects. We will do less total projects this year at a higher return than 2013. “This year we will migrate back towards new construction and higher quality remodeling as our main focus and away from commercial work, smaller projects and repair type of work. “I plan to stick with my original strategy when we first started this company in 2007, which was to provide a hassle-free building experience to all of our customers. I am going back to the philosophy that kept me growing through the worst construction environment in my building career – take care of the customer first and the rest will fall in place. People do business with people they like and trust.” Randy Hopkins, owner RS Hopkins Construction, Inc. Oak Ridge

“The year 2013 was our second full year being open and I was pleased with how we did. We saw a small decrease in real estate closings, but we saw an increase in other areas: family law matters, criminal matters, civil matters, estate planning, etc. “I believe we are seeing an upturn in the economy. There are sectors that are still suffering, but from where I sit, legal services are still in demand and the demand is ever increasing.

construction is making a rebound.

“I believe that 2014 is going to be a great year. Sellers are market savvy and for the most part, list their homes competitively. If your house shows well and you have it priced well in the marketplace, it will sell. The hurdles facing us in 2014 are going to be apOur sales are up, praisals and lender but profit is down a little. guidelines. Staying on top of these two There are no plans for components will be hiring. In fact, we continue vital in the upcoming market.

to find ways to do more with less people.”

“On a daily basis, I check the market, receive Mark Abee, owner information and A.B. Seed, Greensboro seek professional “I believe guidance so that 2014 is going to I can provide the utmost in customer be a great year for our firm. I recently service and information to my clients. hired a second paralegal intern. She Communication is the key to success in graduates in May of this year. I foremy business.” see real estate closings picking up. I also predict the other areas of law will Bobbie Gardner, Realtor remain steady, if not increase. Allen Tate Realtors, Oak Ridge “In the coming year, my plans are to “We finished up about 12 percent continue to work hard and to serve the over 2012 due to more discounting community as a general practitioner. I and Facebook marketing. We were up also have plans to bring another associ17 percent at the end of August, but ate on board soon to help handle the 4th quarter sales were not as expected work load.” Ronald Dean Ingle, Jr., Attorney and merchandise sold cheaper than Ingle Law, PLLC, Oak Ridge expected. This was caused in part by the government shutdown, Affordable “In 2013, the local real estate market Healthcare and unemployment. Most began a slow recovery. It was a year that people in the Triad know several people began slow and gained momentum in our who are not working and this causes area. Having been in real estate for over careful purchasing. 20 years, I’ve experienced and dealt with “Any upturn in the economy is very, the ups and downs of constantly shifting very gradual. I think the Triad is behind markets. My business is ever-changing, the Triangle and Charlotte. but the key to success in 2013 was, and “In 2014, we should continue to see has always been customer service. slow growth. We need to get our mar“The northwest sector of Guilford gins up. Sales are up, but profit is down County was hit pretty hard as we had a little. There are no plans for hiring. a lot of new construction inventory. It is In fact, we continue to find ways to do no longer a strong buyer’s market. The more with less people.” sales have tipped the scale and we are looking at a balanced market. Listing inventories are much lower and new

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Mark Abee, owner A.B. Seed, Greensboro

mark your Individual & Small Business Bookkeeping & Payroll 8400 Hwy 158 • PO Box 469 Stokesdale, NC 27357 kim.thacker@att.net

(336) 644-2741 office (336) 644-2743 fax (336) 508-4671 cell

calendar

The

Longhouse

Submit your events online at

Planning a wedding? We can help!

Click “community calendar” on the left-hand side

(336) 707-6652 thelonghousenc.com

TUESDAY, FEB. 4  Budget/Finance meeting | The Stokesdale Budget/ Finance committee will hold a public meeting to begin work on the 2014/2015 FY budget on Feb. 4 at 4 p.m. at the town hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Rd.

7630 Royster Road • Greensboro

(336) 382-5939 www.allentate.com/bobbiegardner

Carlotta Lytton

Westergaard Kennels

We Help Everyone!

, CPA, PC

DOG BOARDING

SELLERS & BUYERS (336) 643-4248 www.ANewDawnRealty.com

CRS/GRI/Relocation Specialist/EcoBroker

FRIDAY, FEB. 7 (RESPOND BY)  Seniors in Action | Seniors in Action meets for lunch on the second Tuesday of every month at 11 a.m., at the Center United Methodist Church in Summerfield, 6142 Lake Brandt Rd. Call Cal Sigler at 656-7650 by Feb. 7 to reserve your spot.

(336) 644-1095 www.CountryKennelBoarding.com

e-mail: dstone27357@yahoo.com

Bobbie Gardner

THURSDAY, FEB. 6  Sportsman’s Wildlife Club | The Sportsman’s Wildlife Club meets the first Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the clubhouse, 7999 Winfree Rd., Summerfield. More info: call Freddie Marshall at 339-3147.

daily playtimes included large indoor/outdoor runs

SPECIAL EVENTS CENTER

Dawn Stone Owner/Broker

Individual & Corporate Tax Returns Specializing in Payroll & Accounting for Small Businesses

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

7805 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale clyttoncpa@bellsouth.net

phone: (336) 644-7033 fax: (336) 644-7038

Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC 26 Years Experience

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

Individual, Corporate, Partnership & Payroll Tax Electronic Tax Filing  Estate Planning Bookkeeping & Compilations

Northwest

Animal Hospital

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

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

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

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Spoil-Me-Rotten ANIMAL CARE, INC.

(336) 643-5242 Nancy Brooks, PSI Member

JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

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

This and that ... It often seems that both the best with Summerfield and Oak Ridge both and the worst in people surfaces when hoping to have their own water systems life throws us a curve ball. In the case in the future, I thought it was time I of the cold weather and snow this past learned more. And that I did. The town week, we heard many examples of the council is prudent for taking the time best. Strangers stopping to pull to become more educated people’s cars out of ditches. about their water system, and Neighbors checking in on each to explore options for how to other to make sure everyone get more people to connect was okay and offer to pick up to it. This is especially critical needed items at the grocery because the system is currently store. Grocery store employoperating far under capacity, Patti Stokes ees serving hot chocolate to and that comes at a cost. Look publisher/editor Girl Scouts standing outside for riveting coverage about selling cookies in 35-degree weather. these workshops in future issues (at And heating system repair companies least, I’ll do my best). promptly responding when called (this ….. was my personal experience, and I’m There’s rarely a week that goes by in deeply grateful for our heater being which I’m not reminded of the rewards fixed before icicles had a chance to that come with my work. One of those form inside our house!). reminders came this past week when I don’t relish the inconvenience of I had the opportunity to sit down with the cold and the snow, but I do like Troy Stantliff and walk with him down the fact that it slows us down ever so Memory Lane. slightly and makes us a little more As a writer, I knew I would be chaldependent on each other – and a lot lenged to compact 50 years of Troy’s more appreciative. dedication to the Summerfield Fire ….. Department into one article, and that was confirmed when I sat down with my When I told my staff I was headed notes and began to write. There was far out the door to a water system workmore to tell than I could fit in, but I did shop in Stokesdale last Friday aftermy best to cull out some of the most noon, they looked at me sympathetimemorable times, while regretfully leavcally. Though I tried to act like it was a ing many worthy ones out. privilege to attend a workshop about a water system, I admit the topic wasn’t Despite that, I did my job well if I at the top of my “riveting” list. conveyed what a good man Troy is, Still, the town has had a municipal water system since 2003 and there’s a lot I don’t know about how it works, and what the challenges and intricacies of operating the system are. Especially

JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

what a good life he has led, and how unselfishly he has served his community. It was an honor to get a close-up glimpse into his world and my week was richer for it.

….. And finally, the explanation which the Stokesdale Town Council recently gave when selecting a citizen to fill a vacant council seat has created some rumblings, and that’s understandable. The seat was vacated last month when then Councilman Randy Braswell was sworn in as mayor. The council announced it would accept applications from anyone interested in serving the remaining two years of Braswell’s council term. Six citizens applied. There were probably many valid reasons why the council selected Gary

Albert over the other applicants, but unfortunately, the only reason given when nominating him was that Albert had paid his $5 (filing fee) to run for council last fall – the implication being he had shown an interest first, and put himself out in front of the public. It would have been not only helpful but fair to the other applicants to be given more insight as what other considerations were given when making their decision. Hopefully the council members chose a qualified leader and visionary to fill the vacant seat. Now that he’s been selected, it’s up to Albert to prove himself.

Council appointment did not follow fair process At the Town Council meeting of January 21, 2014, I was reaffirmed in my decision to not vote for Mr. Braswell in the last mayoral election. I am infuriated by the manner in which he and a portion of his council selected Mr. Gary Albert to complete the remaining two years of Mr. Braswell’s council term. Following his installation in December, Mr. Braswell announced that applications were being accepted to fill the remaining two years of his newly vacated council seat. Then, at the January council meeting, he announced that 6 local citizens had volunteered to fill his empty seat. However, only 5 of these volunteers actually filled out an application. When pressed, our Mayor announced that he, personally, had told Mr. Albert that he did not have to fill out an application to fill the vacancy. He reasoned that, because Mr. Albert had run for Mrs. Halbrook’s seat, he did not need to apply for Mr. Braswell’s newly empty seat. Mrs. Halbrook’s vacant seat is not Mr. Braswell’s vacant seat. It is a different position. Why did he not have to apply as the other 5 citizens did?

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

I know for a fact that at least one applicant did not even receive a reponse that his application was received, not to mention, reviewed. Wouldn’t it have been proper to acknowledge the receipt of this application? That applicant was not interviewed, or even spoken to, to discuss his opinions and ideas regarding issues related to our community. The Mayor and select members of the board chose Mr. Albert to take the position without even discussing it with their entire membership! Vicki White-Lawrence clearly had no idea that Mr. Albert was even a candidate when his name was placed in nomination, and, had to ask for clarification on the issue. That is when Mayor Braswell’s personal dispensation was made public. So much for transparency, respect and cooperation in our new Town Council… Or is this now “The Stokesdale Good Old Boys’ Club”? Not an auspicious beginning. I fear for the wellbeing of Stokesdale now that Mayor Braswell and his council hold it in their hands. Nancy M. McCoy STOKESDALE

not mean they are safe in the frigid temperatures. If you are cold, they are cold!

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...

reasonable, and your work is outstanding. Lucky to have you.  The garbage pickup employees who ride on the back of the garbage truck in all kinds of weather, including when it’s very cold! Thanks for what you do – we would miss you if you didn’t show up for work!  Lowes Foods on Old Oak Ridge Road for bringing hot chocolate to Girl Scout Troop 01926 while we were selling cookies on Jan. 15 – that really warmed us up! Also, thanks to those who bought cookies on that frigid day.

 Gary Albert, for saying that Stokesdale should be “…run by people who have lived here for a long time…I don’t think the new people coming here always have the same goals in mind.” Shouldn’t the council represent our entire community?

Haircuts at a very comfortable price.

 Troy Stantliff for 50 years of volunteering with the Summerfield Fire Department – and he’s not retiring any time soon. Lucky to have you, Troy!

GRIPES to...

 The family in Summerfield who fires their guns on the Sabbath. I wonder if they are a God-fearing family? What about their neighbors’ Sabbath observance?

 Obie, from Velocity Air, for giving fantastic customer service. You answer your phone promptly, your charges are

 People who leave their dogs outside day and night in the extreme cold. Just because they are “animals” does

Huge inventory of

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GREENSBORO Cardinal Center 2202 Fleming Rd • 336-665-0880 GREENSBORO GREENSBORO Cardinal Center Gunter’s Crossing • 5828 N. Church 2202 Fleming Rd • 336-665-0880 Cardinal Center Crossing • 5828 N. Church St. 2202 Fleming Rd • 336-665-0880 Gunter’s (Next to Lowe’s) • 336-644-7204 (Next to Lowe’s) • 336-644-7204 Gunter’s Crossing • 5828 N. Church St. OAK RIDGE OAK RIDGE (Next to Lowe’s) • 336-644-7204 Oak Ridge Commons • 2205 Oak Ridge Rd (Hwys 150 & 68) • 336-643-3991 Oak Ridge Commons • 2205 Oak Ri OAK RIDGE Oak Ridge Commons • 2205 Oak Ridge Rd (Hwys 150 & 68) • 336-643-3991 (Hwys 150 & 68) • 336-643-3991

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 The cashier at Food Lion in Kings Crossing Shopping Center who forgot to put the Alka-Seltzer I bought in my bag.

starting at

off

Haircuts at a very $ Haircuts at a very $ off haircut off haircut comfortable price.price. comfortable

 Chris Johnson, fire chief of Summerfield, for getting the deer out of the pond. That was awesome. That’s why you are the “Chief.”

GRANITE SALE

 Summerfield Subway. After my sub roll was toasted, the lady preparing my sub began to work with the next customer, then added slices of meat as my toasted sub cooled. I did not order a cooled toasted sub.

Not valid with any other offers. Limit one coupon per customer. Valid only at Oak Ridge Commons, Cardinal Center and Gunter’s Crossing locations.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

11:53 AM

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JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

 EMPLOYMENT

SAVE THE DATE

HOME SERVICES

NEEDED: An individual who is able to enter information into a spreadsheet form and write small breaking news articles. Knowledge of sports and business is helpful but not necessary. Setting up interviews now for an immediate position. Please call (336) 643-9663 for more information.

ROCK THE RUNWAY RECRAFTED – one

ROSA’S CLEANING SERVICE. 11 yrs. exp. Excellent references. (336) 508-5714.

Place online at

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

Drivers: DEDICATED. Regional & OTR. Start up to $.44/mi + excellent beneﬁts. 401K + bonuses. Excellent hometime! CDL-A & 6mos. exp. (877) 704-3773.

HIRING? Advertise it here! To place your employment classiﬁed ad, visit www.nwobserver.com and click on Place a Classiﬁed.

 HOMECARE AVAILABLE

INDEX Employment ................................ 18 Home Care Available .................. 18 Save the Date ............................. 18 Home Services ....................... 18-20 Misc. Services.............................. 20 Misc. for Sale .............................. 20 Misc. Wanted ............................. 20 Pets/Animals & Services ............... 21 Real Estate .................................. 21

JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

CERTIFIED CNA AVAILABLE for inhome care. References throughout the Triad, 30 years exp. (336) 508-3493. ELDERCARE AVAILABLE Experienced with numerous homecare services. References available. Wage & hours negotiable. (336) 707-5245. CAREGIVER AVAILABLE. Seniors, children. PCA certiﬁed. Referenced available. (336) 427-2086.

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

with 7 ready-to-wear collections, Friday, Feb. 21, the Elm Street Center in downtown Greensboro. See display ad on page 10 for more information. Proceeds beneﬁt Triad Goodwill.

Something

going on

Tell northwest Guilford County Place your Save the Date online at

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.

FLOORING CARPET REPAIRS & RESTRETCHING Licensed & insured. 643-6500.

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

HOME SERVICES

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

CLEANING CastleWorks WINDOW CLEANING Includes gutters, pressure washing, chandeliers and other high ladder work. Fully insured and bonded, free estimates.

609-0677.

www.castleworkswindowcleaning.com. 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. MARIA’S CLEANING SERVICE. Free estimates, guaranteed service. 432-4483.

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

OLD SCHOOL

HOME REPAIR, LLC

Home Improvement & Repairs Licensed & Insured

Lisa & Jerry Potkay, Stokesdale

(336) 669-7252

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

Bathroom Remodeler | Additions | Decks

Professional, Honest, Reliable

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.

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

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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

HOME SERVICES

BRAD’S BOBCAT SVC. Grading, hauling, gravel/dirt, debris removal. 362-3647.

ONE GUY & A MACHINE LAWN CARE and hardscaping. Maintenance, design, paver patios, block walls, hedges trimmed, beds re-edged, pine needles, mulch, pressure washing, chemical applications, aerating. Licensed & insured. Free est. Call 382-4767. www.oneguyandamachine.com.

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GUTTERS / WINDOWS / SIDING VINYL SIDING REPAIRS, vinyl railings & siding, replacement windows, gutter cleaning and repair. Please call 215-8776 for your free estimate. GUTTER CLEANING & LEAF GUARDS. 5 and 6” seamless gutters. Free estimates. Call Gary the Gutter Guy. (336) 345-6518. www.a1copperrooﬁng.com. MAYS SIDING Storm damage, facia and siding repairs. 215-8776, www.mayssiding.com.

LAWN CARE / LANDSCAPING

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.

“I have always been pleased with the service, assistance, and of course the great response I receive from my ads.”

Don Hill, HHH Hearth Home & Patio, classiﬁed advertiser since 2008

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

LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS 13-year anniversary special. We will beat your current written price by 15% – guaranteed! Call (336) 601-3796.

MULCH, single-ground, $10 per 3-yard scoop. Tandem load delivered, $100 (about 10 yards). Oak Ridge area, 803-2195.

GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maintenance. 655-6490.

BRAD’S BOBCAT. Landscaping, driveways, patios, sidewalks, concrete work. 362-3647. 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.

ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call 382-9875. GREENERTIMES LAWN MAINTENANCE Free quotes and affordable prices. Discounts on 1-year contracts. (336) 312-3844 mobile or (336) 548-9286 ofﬁce. 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.

HOME SERVICES

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

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facebook.com/NorthwestObserver

JUNK REMOVAL – appliances, batteries, mowers, cars, electronics, trash removal, etc. Call about free junk removal, 423-3006. AFFORDABLE HOME REPAIR and remodeling. Providing electrical, plumbing, carpentry, painting and handyman services. No job too big or too small. (336) 899-0772.

MASONRY 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. MASONRY CONCEPTS, brick, block, stone, concrete & repairs. Free estimates. (336) 988-1022, www.masonryconceptsgso.com.

MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS SENIOR HANDY MAN SERVICES Licensed, bonded, insured. 30 years exp. charge by the project, not by the hour. John Harbie, Jr. (336) 899-0772. LOW-COST GARAGE DOORS. Repair & sales. 35 years exp. (336) 215-2800. ON EAGLE’S WINGS residential home design/drafting. Call Patti, (336) 605-0519.

Triad Garage Doors

SALES, SERVICE & INSTALLATIONS (336) 501-6025 www.triadgaragedoors.com

RESTORATION SPECIALISTS DELIVERING AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE

• Furniture Refinishing • Cabinet Refacing • Leather Repair CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

336/404-1471 www.fmbyjh.com

PAINTING & DRYWALL PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 32 years experience. Avg. size bedroom walls, $100. Sheetrock repair. Call Brad Rogers for your free estimate. (Local #) 314-3186. STILL PERFECTION PAINTING Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, 462-3683 or stillperfectionpainting.com.

RIDDLE PAINTING

Specializing in interior painting, we take pride in our quality work and personalized service Free estimates References available

Residential Interiors Pressure Washing

(336) 402-4603 Serving the Triad since 1998

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

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

...continued on p. 20 JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

HOME SERVICES

 MISC. FOR SALE

PLUMBING

RENOVATION WORKS INC.

BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR

bath, additions, decks & patios. Call (336)

No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed.

427-7391 or www.myrenovationworks.com.

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.

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.

New construction, remodeling, kitchen and

Lic/Ins. Call Mark for savings. 337-7924. TRIPP SMITH CONSTRUCTION, LLC. Repair, remodel, well

Licensed general contractor with college

pump. Lic/Ins. Accepts all major credit

degree in construction management and

cards. Ofﬁce 656-0019, cell 382-6905.

18 years of experience. Specializing in

POWER WASHING

construction, residential & commercial. No

PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window

(336) 399-4894, trippsmithconstruction@

JDB PLUMBING.

cleaning. Call Crystal Clear. Fully insured. www.windowcleaningnc.com. 595-2873.

Tell our readers about your business!

Classiﬁeds are just $4/line! Place your ad online at www.nwobserver.com, or call Laura, 644-7035, ext. 10.

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

26 years experience. Specializing in room additions, garages, vinyl siding and windows, painting, ceramic tile, laminate, hardwood and linoleum ﬂoors, and remodeling of all kinds. No job too small. Free est. Call 644-1943 or cell 362-7469.

TM Construction Services, INC.

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Licensed & Insured

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

job too large or too small. Free estimates. yahoo.com. JLB REMODELING INC. Licensed and insured. Free estimates. Remodeling, additions and home repairs. 681-2902, www.jlbremodeling.com. BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens & baths, rotted wood, decks, siding, windows, fall rooﬁng specialist. Sr. discounts, 35 years exp. 362-6343.

ON-TARGET

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

Tc. GicEes, In ARerv -Tction S OCoNnstru

KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION

decks, garages, additions, remodels, new

30 yrs exp • Workmanship guarantee • Insurance specialists

(336) 644-1580

FREE Estimates Insured & Dependable

ROOFING

JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

Find us on facebook for updates!

MISC. SERVICES

FIREWOOD

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.

SEASONED FIREWOOD, all hardwood, free delivery. Wood splitting avail. 543-3664.

FREE PICKUP of appliances, batteries, junk mowers, air conditioners, grills, electrical items, metal items, etc. 689-4167.

FIREWOOD, seasoned hardwood, no pine. Pick up or delivery. 253-7615, 643-5744.

T TNails Acrylic nails • Tip overlay • Pink & white Gel manicures • Liquid gels Nail designs • Spa pedicure • Waxing

submit your ad at

Located in Gunter’s Crossing Appointments or Walk-ins • GIFT CERTIFICATES

OPEN Mon - Sat, 9am - 7pm • Sun 1 - 5pm

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

 MISC. WANTED

A+ rating. cormanrooﬁnginc.com, 621-6962. LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Now accepting all major credit cards. Call 643-8191 or 580-3245.

Sell it here in the

(5820-C N Church St, Greensboro)

area since 1983. Member BBB 25+ years w/

Residential rooﬁng, rubber ﬂat roofs, roof

Got stuff? classifieds

Res. rooﬁng specialist serving Guilford Cty.

CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC.

SEASONED FIREWOOD, delivered & stacked. 1/2 cord, $80. Call 686-6373.

(336) 644-8888

A.L. CORMAN ROOFING INC.

coating, metal roofs. 30 years experience. NC General Contractor License #72797

What’s going on around town?

GE Proﬁle Artica STAINLESS REFRIGERATOR, freezer on top. 68” high, 36” wide, 31” deep. Excellent condition. $400. Call Mike, (336) 687-6006. Oak Ridge.

Regular & climate controlled units

We carry moving & shipping supplies

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

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

$$$ – WILL PAY CASH up to $200 for your junk or wrecked vehicle. 552-0328. 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.

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Real estate showcase ads in the NWO get seen! Include a photo and description for your listing, Realtor photo, logo and contact info all for only $75!

Your Finder will be arriving soon!

 REAL ESTATE

PET SITTING & BOARDING

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

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Provide food, exercise, play, meds/shots, much TLC. 1-3 trips/day. $15/trip (30 min). Call 643-5242. Oak Ridge/Summerﬁeld.

 REAL ESTATE HOMES FOR RENT 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.

7703 Eversfield Road 2.35 acres, zoned RS-30 residential. Direct road access, wooded and private. Northwest schools. Perks for 4 BR septic. $45,000

DeDe Cunningham

in the mail, on the street and online at nwobserver.com

Realtor ® / Broker NC Licensed Contractor Chairman’s Circle Award

(336) 509-1923 allentate.com/DedeCunningham

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

STANTLIFF ...continued from p. 1 That was 50 years ago, and though much has changed since then, one thing has not – with the exception of a few years when “Uncle Sam” called him away to serve his time in the Army, Stantliff has been closely involved with the fire department, which long ago became his second home just as the members of the department became his extended family. Stantliff’s father was involved in helping the fire department get off the ground, along with many of the men in the community who he looked up to as a young boy. “My dad was my inspiration,” Stantliff says. “I remember when they were trying to get the department organized. I was about 5 or 6 years old. A lot of informal meetings went on at Gordon’s Hardware.”

After receiving the charter to form the department, the locals contributed in whatever ways they could to build the first station. “We raised chickens on a large scale and at that time we were processing chickens,” Stantliff remembers. “My father would come down here with a big ole sheet fire and cook chicken for the workers who were building the station.” You can find a lot of skills in a fire department, Stantliff says. “Harold Decker laid the blocks. Jasper Angel was a carpenter … and then they had a slew of helpers. There was no money to pay anyone, so they had to build it mostly themselves. Some of the men who helped get the fire department started were on the “firefighting side” while others were on the “business side” (there are two sides to every rural fire department, Stantliff points out). He easily rattles off names of those who pioneered the formation of the department – among them

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JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

were George Price, who volunteered to be the first fire chief, Amos Maynard, Henry Winchester, Ralph Crews, John Southern, Dewy Trogden Jr., Robert and Earl Winfree, and Harvey Troxler. If prompted, Stantliff could probably name them all, as the impression they made on him was a permanent one. Before the fire district was established, the fire department had no fire tax, and therefore no steady stream of income. Instead, Stantliff says community members donated money to help pay for the trucks and equipment and voluntarily paid an annual fee of $25 to ensure that if they had a fire, someone would be there to respond. Unlike in some other areas, though, the Summerfield firefighters responded when there was a need, regardless of whether fees had been paid. In the fire department’s infancy, there were far fewer options for formal training and only a meager budget for it anyway. Most of the time firemen taught each other what they knew, and the rest they learned “on the job” while fighting a live fire.

Back then, you only had so many sets of turnout gear,” Stantliff says. “If somebody had to be relieved, you switched out the gear. The helmets didn’t give much more protection than a (baseball) batting helmet. As for the boots, the only difference between them and a pair of waders was they had a steel toe in them. A key measure of any fire department’s success is its loss versus save ratio. Early on the department’s ratio was heavily on the loss side, Stantliff says, while pointing out that before the department was formed, the losses

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

were 100 percent. In 50 years he’s seen the ratio reversed, which he attributes largely to the extensive training firemen now receive, much more sophisticated gear and equipment, faster trucks, tankers with more storage capacity, ladder trucks that can access high places and that can spray water from above a fire when needed, advanced methods of communication and “good neighbors (nearby fire departments) that we can count on.” Over the years Stantliff has been both a firefighter and a member of the department’s board of directors. In fact, he’s served on the board for 36 of his 50 years with the department, including 33 years as president, and currently as secretary of the board. His wife Betty not only supports his dedication to the department but has served as treasurer of the board of directors and has been the department’s financial agent for the last several years. During Stantliff’s tenure the fire department built a new station on Lake Brandt Road, remodeled the station on Scalesville Road, merged a station on Battleground Avenue with the station on Summerfield Road, and replaced the original station on Summerfield Road with a new station; also during this time numerous engines, tankers, brush trucks and other equipment have been purchased and three fire chiefs have succeeded George Price. Stantliff takes great pride in the department’s two-story training building, which was built in 2008 beside Station #9 on Summerfield Road. It’s a rarity in this area – in the entire City of Greensboro there is only one other similar training facility, which is on N. Church Street. “We can do live fires or theatre smoke in there,” says Stantliff. “It has a large fan, moveable panels, three special burn areas, and we can smoke up the top and the bottom separately.” On Dec. 2, 2013, a plaque was

placed on the training building, dedicating it in Stantliff’s honor. Though Stantliff no longer fights fires, he keeps his certifications up to date and can still be found at the scene of a fire. “My job a lot of times is making up crews,” he says. “I could possibly have two firefighters from Greensboro, one from Oak Ridge and one from Stokesdale on a crew. They know you’ve got their back and they’ve got yours.” Chris Johnson is Summerfield Fire Department’s fourth fire chief. George Price, the department’s first chief, was his grandfather. Stantliff remembers young Chris often being at George’s side, whether it was at the fire station or in his wrecker truck on the way to a call. The history between the two is only matched by their admiration for each other.

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the advertisers who partnered with us to bring you this free community resource A/C & HeAting Stokesdale Heating & Air.....................22 Velocity Air, Inc. .....................................8

ACCounting Carlotta Lytton, CPA, PA .....................15 Kimberly Thacker Accounting..............15

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The Northwest FINDER .......................24 The Northwest Observer......................23

HAir CAre Great Clips .......................................... 17

Home ProduCts & serviCes ProStone Inc. ......................................17

insurAnCe Triad Insurance......................................6

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restAurAnts

Attorney Bill Barbour .............................3

Domino’s Pizza ......................................5

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Eagle Physicians at Oak Ridge ...............3 LeBauer HealthCare............................ 11

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Johnson credits Stantliff’s leadership over the years with helping the fire department get to where it is today.

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“After 50 years, he still continues to lead,” Johnson says. “And it’s never been about himself. It’s about the community … this is his life.”

CHurCHes

Country Kennel ...................................15 Northwest Animal Hospital ..................15 Spoil-Me-Rotten Animal Care, Inc. ......15 Westergaard Kennels...........................15

“Fifty years of dedication to the fire department – that’s 50 years of missing ball games and birthdays and anniversaries,” says Johnson. “Betty (Stantliff’s wife) and I have talked about that … you miss certain things in life when you’re always on call. And, he hasn’t gotten paid anything for all of that – you don’t see that in this day and time.” When asked if he foresees retiring from the department any time soon, Stantliff says he’s not ready quite yet. “I don’t exactly remember how I got started, and I don’t know just how I’ll quit.” Johnson says no one is in a hurry for Stantliff to retire. “He’s always got a place here … the people here respect him and value his opinion.”

Central Baptist Church ..........................4

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It’s all over northwest Guilford County.

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

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

JAN. 31 - FEB. 6, 2014

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