Northwest Observer | Feb. 10 - 16, 2017 by pscommunications

Feb. 10 - 16, 2017

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Town considers revenue-producing options Determined not to levy a sales tax, Stokesdale looks at three ways to improve its bottom line by STEVE MANN STOKESDALE – Three items on Stokesdale Town Council’s weekly meeting Feb. 1 had one thing in common: generating revenue for the town.

Still fighting to regain its share of tax revenue lost when the Guilford County commissioners changed the method of sales tax distribution in 2003, while determined not to levy a property tax, Stokesdale is exploring ways to improve its bottom line. With that in mind, the town council examined information from the Greensboro ABC Board about bringing

a store to Stokesdale, took its first look at whether to pursue a contract with a company that would negotiate licensing agreements with wireless carriers for antenna space on the town’s water tank, and agreed to seek bids for a professionally produced brochure to advertise rental options for the town park and town hall facilities. Last July, council member Frank

Bruno said he had been asked by citizens to explore the possibility of bringing an ABC store to Stokesdale. At that meeting, the council voted to have Bruno conduct some research on the feasibility. But when the agenda item came up for discussion the following month, Bruno was met with some resistance from

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‘Say no to PD,’ ‘Say yes to PD’ – what will it be? With emotions surrounding a proposed PD zoning district running high, Summerﬁeld Town Council will hold a Q&A session on the PD zoning district on Feb. 9, followed by a public hearing on Feb. 16. by PATTI STOKES SUMMERFIELD – Although the idea of a Planned Development zoning district has been kicked around in Summerfield for over 10 years, it has garnered much more attention since a proposed text amendment to add the district to the town’s development ordinance was presented to the town’s Planning and Zoning board last fall. Fast forward to Jan. 23, ‘No PD’ signs have been popping up throughout Summerﬁeld in recent weeks in opposition to a proposed text amendment that would add a Planned Development zoning district to the town’s development ordinance.

when the board held a public hearing for citizen input, after which it voted 5-1 to recommend approving it. The final decision now lies with the town council, and citizens on both sides of the issue want to make sure their opinions are taken into consideration before the council is expected to vote on the issue on Thursday, Feb. 16. Opponents to the zoning district have placed “No PD” signs throughout Summerfield in recent weeks and flooded town council members and staff with emails and phone calls. In

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IN THIS ISSUE News in Brief ................................2 Your Questions ............................4 Oak Ridge Town Council ...........8 Youth/School News .................. 11 Student Profiles ......................... 12 Sports Highlights ...................... 15 Business Notes .......................... 18 Bits & Pieces .............................. 19 Community Calendar .............. 21 Crime/Incident Report .............22 Letters/Opinions .......................24 Grins & Gripes ...........................24 Classifieds ................................. 27 Index of Advertisers ................. 31 NWO on the Go! .......................32

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NEWS in brief

Upcoming town council meetings

Also on the agenda is a discussion to hire an interim director for the town’s water system.

Because Valentine’s Day falls this year on the second Tuesday of the month, which is when Summerfield Town Council usually meets, the council will instead meet on Thursday, Feb. 16. A meeting agenda was not available as of our press deadline for this issue, but a public hearing for a text amendment to add a Planned Development zoning district to the town’s development ordinance is scheduled for this council meeting. The public hearing is expected to draw a large crowd, so instead of the usual meeting location at Summerfield Community Center, arrangements have been made to meet in Summerfield First Baptist Church’s Christian Life Center.

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STOKESDALE/SUMMERFIELD – The town’s water system and the proposed regional water authority are among items on the agenda for the Thursday, Feb. 9 monthly Stokesdale Town Council meeting. The meeting will be the first to feature two public comment periods on the proposed regional water authority involving Stokesdale, Oak Ridge, Summerfield and Guilford County; one will be toward the beginning and the other near the end. The four entities recently approved a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for engineering firms to perform a feasibility study.

Stokesdale Town Council will meet Thursday, Feb. 9, 7 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. The monthly meeting agenda is on the town’s website at www.stokesdale.org. Additionally, the town council meets on Wednesdays at 4 p.m., also at Town Hall.

Summerfield Town Council will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday, Feb. 16, 6:30 p.m. in the Christian Life Center of Summerfield First Baptist Church, 2300 Scalesville Road. When finalized, the meeting agenda will be posted at www.summerfieldgov.com.

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OAK RIDGE – If profits from its ABC store continue to increase as they have for the past 12 years, the Town of Oak Ridge may come up with its own version of Chick-Fil-A’s slogan, “Eat mor chikin” – which could go something like, “Drink more liquor” (responsibly, of course). Oak Ridge’s ABC store, which opened in Oak Ridge Commons shopping center in 2005, is part of the Triad Municipal ABC Board based in Winston-Salem, which has nine members and includes 14 stores. During the first fiscal year the store was open, Oak Ridge received $30,323

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for its share of profits from store sales. Profits have grown considerably since then, and for the months of October, November and December 2016, experienced yet another record high. Finance Officer Sam Anders reported at Oak Ridge’s Feb. 2 council meeting that the quarter ending Dec. 31, 2016 yielded a record $60, 944 in profit sharing for the town. Profits for the same time period in the three previous years were: • Second quarter 2013-14: $46,574 • Second quarter 2014-15: $47,851 • Second quarter 2015-16: $52,504

The hefty second quarter profits for this fiscal year bring the cumulative total to $106,018, with two quarters left. Only $92,000 in profits from the ABC store was projected for the entire FY 2016-2017. “The Triad Municipal ABC Board experienced a very good quarter during the timeframe of October through December 2016,” confirmed Oak Ridge Town Clerk Sandra Smith, who also serves as the ABC board’s chair. “We were happy to distribute portions of the profit to all the participating municipalities in our system, which of course includes Oak Ridge, per our agreements with them. Although the

numbers were up anyway, the fact that there were five Saturdays in December made them look even better.” When commenting on the store profits in an earlier year, Anders noted a contributing factor to the store’s steady increase in profits is the town has more restaurants than it did when it opened in 2005, and the restaurants normally go to the closest ABC store to purchase alcohol for stocking their bars. “We’re also in a good location, with everybody going back and forth to Belews Creek,” Anders said. “Oak Ridge has a lot of positives for the commercial aspect of that location.”

Horse farm will transition to residential development

OAK RIDGE – A rezoning request for 73.45 acres off N.C. 150 was unanimously approved by Oak Ridge Town Council Feb. 2. After receiving a positive recommendation from the town’s planning director, and the town’s Planning Board, which voted 5-1 to recommend approval after holding a public hearing Jan. 26, the council held a second public hearing at its meeting, during which a handful of neighboring

property owners expressed concerns about the impact on traffic and the groundwater supply. LD Equity will purchase five contiguous parcels of land owned by Jim and Florence “Sam” Burnette, who developed the property over 30 years ago as a horse farm. Jim Burnette told the council on Feb. 2 that he and his wife

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I heard that this past December, 13 students at Northwest High School were arrested for drugs. Is that true, and if so, does Northwest have the most incidents of any of the county’s high schools, as I also heard it does? No, what you’ve heard is not true, according to the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office and NWHS principal Ralph Kitley. In December there were four, not 13, arrests at Northwest High School and we received these details: two students were cited and released for misdemeanor possession of marijuana on Dec. 5 and another student was charged with possession of a weapon after he was found with a knife. On Dec. 6 another NWHS student was cited and released for misdemeanor possession of marijuana. NWHS principal Ralph Kitley said a variety of measures are used to keep drugs out of school and provide drug education and awareness. He noted that most of the drug possession incidents involve prescription drugs.

FEB. 10 - 16, 2017

SRO (School Resource Officer) Sergeant Ray Wallace of Guilford County Sheriff’s Office said school administrators and SROs work together on student issues.“Northern and Northwest truly work with us very well when it comes to reporting things,” Wallace said. Incidents involving charges of students 18 and older are available for public viewing at the sheriff’s P2C (Police to Citizen) website. Before reports are published online, incident reports are written and reviewed by three personnel: the school’s SRO, the SRO sergeant, and the crime analyst system administrator. Incidents involving minors do not appear on the website nor do those where prosecution is declined. Regarding whether drug incidents are on the rise, according to the

N.C. Department of Public Instruction (DPI), state law requires SROs to report 16 crimes to DPI whether they occur “in school, on a school bus, on school grounds, or during an off-campus school-sponsored activity.” DPI publishes crime statistics as part of its annual N.C. School Report Card for each N.C. public and charter school. Archived report cards are also available online as far back as 2001. We reviewed the 2015-2016 N.C. Report Card for Northwest and the other area public high schools that share feeder schools: Northwest Guilford, with 2,024 students, reported 0.79 criminal incidents per 100 students. Southwest Guilford, with 1,514 students, reported 1.32 criminal incidents per 100 students. Northern Guilford, with 1,340 students, reported 0.45 criminal incidents per 100 students.

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“One infraction is too many,” Kitley said, “but with a student body of over 2,100 students, the number of infractions is very low compared to other schools.”

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Western Guilford, with 1,291 students, reported 0.93 criminal incidents per 100 students. Grimsley, with 1,689 students, reported 2.31 criminal incidents per 100 students. Nora Murray, who works for Guilford County Schools in media relations, shared more details about last year’s incidents at Northwest and Northern from the annual school crime and violence report she received from DPI in late January. In the 2015-2016 school year, Northwest reported 16 incidents: 14 for possession of a controlled substance and two for possession of a weapon; Murray emphasized that possession of a weapon excludes firearms and explosives. Northern reported six incidents: five for possession of a controlled substance and one for possession of alcohol. “Those are really low numbers for schools of that size,” said Murray. We obtained a copy of the report which listed Eastern, with a student population of 1,134, as the school with both the highest number of overall and drug incidents in 2015-2016. Of the 44 student incidents Eastern reported, 32 were for possession of a controlled substance.

Can you tell me if the 19-acre tract at 3505 Oak Ridge Road (northwest corner of

N.C. 150 and Dubach Road in Summerfield) has been approved for multifamily use? If so, how does this comply with land use when surrounding property is all single-family? The property at 3505 Oak Ridge Rd. was rezoned before the adoption of the town’s Comprehensive Plan in 2010, therefore subject to a less comprehensive longrange plan and to the development oinance, Summerfield Planning Director Carrie Spencer said.

Photo by Laura Reneer/NWO | Nineteen acres at the corner of N.C. 150 and Dubach Road in Summerﬁeld was rezoned to OSRD (Open Space Residential District) about eight years ago and is being developed for nine twin home buildings.

“It was rezoned to an OSRD (Open Space Residential District), which requires that 50 percent of the property be left as open space in exchange for allowing homes to be on smaller lots. OSRD allows twin homes,” Spencer explained.

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Half of the property’s 19 acres will be open space, while half is developed with nine twin home buildings, each with two homes that will be individually owned. “While it meets all requirements of our current development ordinance and of the long-range plan in place at the time, the currently adopted Comprehensive Plan would likely look at it differently,” Spencer said.

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TOWN REVENUE

distributed to municipalities that don’t have a store.

...continued from p. 1 council members and several citizens. He said he would continue to pursue it. At the Feb. 1 meeting, Bruno presented information from Vickeé Armstrong, CEO of the Greensboro ABC Board, who has expressed an interest in adding an ABC store in Stokesdale. The process? It’s not much more than sending the Greensboro ABC Board an invitation to partner with Stokesdale to bring a store there, Bruno said. “It doesn’t cost us anything,” he told his fellow council members. “They handle all of the expense to do the feasibility study, do the store, stock it, everything like that.” A municipality with an ABC store keeps 70 percent of the sales, Bruno said; the other 30 percent goes into a Greensboro/Guilford County pot that is

Stokesdale’s projected ABC profit share for the fiscal year ending June 30 is $12,000, but could be significantly more if it had an ABC store. Bruno said he asked Armstrong if Stokesdale could receive less money through a partnership with the ABC board and was told no. He also wondered what effect a store in Stokesdale would have on sales at the Summerfield store, which is also a member of the Greensboro ABC Board. Armstrong told Bruno she couldn’t answer that until a feasibility study is conducted, but the board wouldn’t pursue adding a store in Stokesdale if it felt it would hurt another member’s sales. Bruno said the entire process could take 18 to 24 months, but was worth considering since Stokesdale is giving away income to ABC stores in surrounding areas. Discussion was continued to the

Planned Development (PD) text amendment: upcoming meetings

Summerfield is considering a Development Ordinance amendment pertaining to planned developments. Following several public meetings since October, the Zoning Board recommended approval. Two upcoming meetings are scheduled:

1 2

On the wireless communications management item, Mayor Randy Braswell said he was contacted by Utility Service Communications Co., based in Perry, Georgia. He said he did not ask for revenue projections or a list of towns renting out space on their water towers, rather just asked the representative to send the council a copy of a basic contract to examine. This might be something the town staff could market without having to use an outside company, Braswell said. It was noted that owners of the private water tower in downtown Stokesdale are already doing something similar. Discussion was continued to Feb. 9. Advertising for rental of the town park and town hall facilities appears to be limited to word of mouth and the facility use agreement found on the town’s website. Town Administrator/Finance Officer Kim Hemric said she believes a color trifold brochure would be effective in increasing facility rentals and advised hiring an outside firm to design the brochure. After council member Tim Jones asked if Hemric could put together projections of rental income for a cost analysis, Braswell said the council spent

$18,000 to $20,000 last year to get the fields up to par and has only rented them for one fall cycle. For the fiscal year ending June 30, the estimate for town hall rentals is $100 and for the town park, $1,000. “You got to be able to market the facilities in order to generate some revenue,” Braswell said. The council voted 5-0 to seek a minimum of three proposals for designing a professional brochure to advertise town-owned facility rentals. In other action, the council voted 4-1 (with Tim Jones opposed) to ask the town attorney to draft a contract for $9,000 with Mike Hunter Enterprises for mowing and chemically treating the soccer fields at the town park for 2017 and authorize the town administrator to sign it. Hunter had a contract for last year’s improvements and was hired to mow for the season. In unfinished business from the Jan. 12 weekly meeting, Hemric distributed information about a digital voice recorder. The council had voted 5-0 at that meeting to purchase a new recorder and two replacement microphones to help improve the minute-taking process for town staff. The recorder Hemric discussed didn’t have a time-stamp capability, so Hemric was asked to continue her research.

Special called Town Council meeting: Thursday, February 9, 6:30pm, Summerfield First Baptist Church Christian Life Center (2300 Scalesville Rd.). This will be a Question-and-Answer session about PDs.

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response, the town council announced last week it will hold a Question and Answer session for the PD zoning district on Thursday, Feb. 9. Summerfield Councilman Mike Adams said in the three-and-a-half years that he’s been on the town council, he’s never had as many emails and phone calls from citizens as he has had recently. And although emotions on the issue have been running on high octane, he’s happy for the dialogue that has resulted. “Sometimes things like this bring attention to the overall scope of what the town is doing,” Adams said. “Awareness is a good thing.” Misperceptions, on the other hand, are maybe not such a good thing and Adams and other council and staff members say there is plenty of that when it comes to the proposed PD zoning district. “I’ve gotten three different kinds of emails,” said Councilman Reece Walker. “Some are totally against this PD zoning district – and all development. Some oppose the PD for valid reasons. And some are clearly misinformed – if the PD zoning district is saying what they think it is saying, I’d be afraid of it too.” Walker said he has asked Carrie Spencer, the town’s planning director, to

strengthen some of the language in the proposed text amendment for the PD district. For example, even though Spencer has said apartment complexes would not be in compliance with the town’s comprehensive plan, many people still worry the text amendment’s language and the town’s comprehensive plan’s language have left a door open. Walker is asking that “strict language” be added which clearly prohibits apartment complexes. Walker would also like to see three more positions added to the Technical Review Committee which would provide the final layer of oversight for a Planned Development before it could move forward. In addition to a representative from the fire department, sheriff’s office, health department, fire marshal’s office and NCDOT, Walker will ask that a member of GCS Board of Education be added to the committee, along with one or two property owners who live in the vicinity of any proposed Planned Development. Like his fellow councilmen, Councilman John O’Day looks forward to the Feb. 9 Question and Answer session and hopes the many questions he has received from citizens will be answered to their satisfaction. Those questions, he said, include how much residential and commercial development would be allowed in a PD, how the impact of a PD on the infrastructure would be addressed, and how the town can guarantee that specifications within the PD district will be followed.

Adams said he hasn’t just heard from people who oppose the PD, but also from many who support it. “Some came from towns where PDs were popular and addressed the needs of young families as well as senior citizens, which enhanced the community,” he said. “I visited a PD last Saturday which I thought was beautifully laid out and very impressive. The commercialization was not hidden, but part of the setting, along with rolling hills, lakes and trails. It was gorgeous, and a place that I would consider living. “We have 25 square miles of town and many open areas – I don’t think we can preserve it if all we have is half-million-dollar homes scattered across our town on 60,000-square-foot lots. We won’t have the open fields any longer.” Still, Adams has questions of his own about the proposed PD, and those he has promised to get answered for others – one of which is how much density would be allowed in a PD, and what it would take to support neighborhood businesses. He also wants to see more “teeth” in the proposed text amendment “to hold builders’ and developers’ feet to the fire.” The impact of water on nearby property owners’ wells, wastewater disposal activities, preserving open space and level of commercialization are also issues he’ll be scrutinizing in the coming days leading up to an anticipated public

hearing and subsequent council vote on Feb. 16 – as is how to address the impact of more development of any kind on the local roads and schools. Walker said he wants to see developers of PDs have more of a buy-in, i.e., to participate in paying for the impact their developments would have on the infrastructure within the town, and to have an assurance that the PD would go through many more layers of scrutiny than a typical RS-40 development does. “I’m not going to support something that I think will have a negative impact on the community,” he said. “I plan to raise my family here and live in Summerfield forever, so this isn’t something I take lightly. I promise I will do the best that I know how for Summerfield and will try to vote for what’s right and what the people want – hopefully, I can do both.”

want to go? Summerfield Town Council will host a Question & Answer session on the proposed Planned Development zoning district on Thursday, Feb. 9, 6:30 p.m. in Summerfield First Baptist Church’s Christian Life Center, 2300 Scalesville Road. The Town Council will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday, Feb. 16, also at 6:30 p.m. in Summerfield First Baptist Church’s Christian Life Center, 2300 Scalesville Road. During that meeting a public hearing on the PD zoning district will be held.

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OAK RIDGE town council

Feb. 2 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by PATTI STOKES  Mayor Spencer Sullivan called the monthly meeting to order. Erin Betlej, Oak Ridge United Methodist Church’s director of youth and young adults, led the opening prayer; following the Pledge of Allegiance, minutes from the Jan. 5 regular meeting and Jan. 18 special meeting were approved. Sheriff’s Office. Master Corporal Nick Southern encouraged citizens to keep lawn equipment locked up, and to record serial and VIN numbers of equipment. Fire Department. Asst. Chief Sam Anders said the department responded to 78 calls in December – 45 were of a medical nature and 33 fire- or service-related. Department personnel underwent 245 training hours. In January, the department responded to 49 calls and underwent 228 training hours. Anders encouraged residents to practice a home fire escape plan, clean their smoke detectors and change the batteries in them regularly. With modern construction and synthetic furniture materials, houses can become engulfed in flames in 3 to 5 minutes versus the 15 minutes it used to take.

MANAGER’S REPORT  Town Manager Bruce Oakley received approval to extend the 2018 urban archery season by two weeks.

 5  0 to appoint Tony Cooler as a third alternate on the Planning and Zoning Board.

 5  0 to approve Oakley’s request to contract with Piedmont Triad Regional Council to conduct a salary and benefits study for town employees, at a cost of $3,500. The study should be completed before the budget is adopted for FY 2017-18. PUBLIC HEARINGS #RZ-17-01. Town Planning Director Bill Bruce presented a request for five separate but contiguous tracts off Oak Ridge Road totaling 73.45 acres to be rezoned from AG (Agricultural) and RS-40 (Residential, Single-Family) to CU-RPD (Conditional Use – Rural Preservation District). The property is owned by Jim and Florence (“Sam”) Burnette, who developed it as a horse farm several years ago. In full disclosure, Mayor Sullivan said the rear of his property adjoins the largest

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Bruce explained the council would need to vote separately on a development sketch plan and on the rezoning request. The RPD district requires a 50 percent open space be set aside in exchange for smaller lots. LD Equity hopes to develop 53 lots ranging from 15,000 to 20,000 square feet on 71 acres of the property (and two homes on a smaller tract, for a total of 55 homes). About 30 acres of woods and streams at the rear of the property will be preserved for open space and recreation. The developer placed a condition on the rezoning that an existing trail encircling the perimeter of the property will remain, except at road crossings. Bruce noted the rezoning request was consistent with the town’s Land Use Plan and would preserve a significant amount of valued, usable open space. Based on 55 homes, traffic counts would increase by about 550 trips per day. About 30 residents, most from the adjacent Grey Fox Road and Misty Hollow Lane neighborhoods, attended an open house the developer held on Jan. 23. Bruce recommended the rezoning request be approved, as did the P&Z Board (with a 5-1 vote).

Proponents  Bob Dischinger, president of Evans Engineering, spoke on behalf of the developer, LD Equity, which is under contract to purchase the property.

Most of the homes will have three bedrooms, but “a handful” will have two bedrooms and some will be four bedrooms, Dischinger said. Yards will be maintained by a homeowners association. Dischinger said the developers have worked to address the concerns neighbors raised at the Jan. 23 open house and he has met with an assistant district engineer with NCDOT and John Nykamp with Guilford County Health Department. Nykamp said he was not aware of any problems with nearby property owners’ wells; the proposed development would be served by a community well. The developers have agreed to work on a possible drainage issue affecting a residence on Misty Hollow Lane, and one of two entrance roads will be centered in a buffered area to at least partially shield it from another property at the corner of N.C. 150 and Misty Hollow Lane.  James Burnette said he and his wife have owned the property for 36 years and although they love Oak Ridge, it is time to move back to the family farm in Virginia. “We especially appreciate the reasonable approach of the council, citizens and committees. After three years on the market and compared to some of the ideas we’ve seen, this is a real good plan and we hope you can approve it,” Burnette told the council.  Danny Yanusz, a 31-year resident of Grey Fox Road, said he had mixed feelings about the development of this property, but liked the proposed development plan and that it would preserve 30 acres of natural area. He hoped the

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Addressing Sadler’s questions, Dischinger said the proposed development’s homes would average 2,500 square feet and would be built to new home construction standards, so they would be similar to homes on Carriage Cove Drive as far as price per square foot. Pine trees around the perimeter of the property will remain and continue to be a buffer, he noted. To Gaddy’s concerns, Dischinger said traffic into and out of the development would be split between two neighborhoods and the developer will consider additional buffering so as to mitigate the impact of the extra traffic.

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 Councilman Jim Kinneman asked if the post office would require a cluster box rather than individual mailboxes and Dischinger said yes. Regarding the HOA maintaining the exterior of the property, Dischinger said that service is typically contracted out and a review would be done to ensure adequate funds were set aside to cover the service. Regarding the community well, a drawdown test would be required to determine if wells within a 1,000-foot radius would be impacted; several property owners within that radius would be asked if they want their wells monitored during the drawdown test.  Councilman George McClellan verified that homeowners within the 1,000-foot radius would be given a chance to have their wells monitored while the drawdown was conducted.

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 Councilman Doug Nodine asked about placing individual septic tanks on lots as small as 15,000 square feet and Dischinger said lots as small as 15,000 square feet would accommodate 2-bedroom homes, but the majority of the lots would be about 20,000 square feet and accommodate 3- and 4-bedroom homes. There will be no off-site septic in the 30 acres preserved as open space. As for the horse stable on the property, Dischinger said the HOA would decide how to use it – it could, for example, be cleaned out and used as a picnic shelter. Mayor Sullivan confirmed there would be a maximum of 55 lots in the development, including two lots that are off Grey Fox Road (one of those is the existing home place). In response to a question about the

...continued on p. 23

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

FEB. 10 - 16, 2017

_________________________________

 Eddie Gaddy said the lot beside his home off Oak Ridge Road is where an entrance road to the proposed development will be placed. With an estimated

REBUTTAL: Proponents

Mark Holmes of Carriage Cove Drive said if a homeowners association was going to be responsible for the 30 wooded acres at the rear of the property, including the horse stable and other buildings, he couldn’t imagine what the HOA fees would be. He also expressed concerns about the impact of the development on his neighborhood’s groundwater supply.

1692 N

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“There is a pond and a swamp area and there are woods – I don’t understand why this area is very special,” Sadler said. “A portion of the land is probably not usable to build on. When we purchased our home a few years ago, it was RS-40, or about one acre. This would be about RS-15 or RS-20 – how big would the homes be? Would they have vinyl siding? I have concerns about our property value… In summary, I wish Mr. Burnette every success – but not at our expense and at the level of RS-15 or RS-20.”

REBUTTAL: Opponents

 Councilman Mike Stone asked Dischinger about the requirements for NCDOT to take over maintenance of a street and Dischinger said homeowners could petition for that once there were four occupied homes on a street the length of Carriage Cove Drive. When Stone then asked about the homes being “maintenance-free,” Dischinger clarified that the yards would be maintained by the HOA; if, however, a family wanted to fence in their back yard, they would maintain what’s inside the fence. In response to Stone’s next question, Dischinger confirmed there was no guarantee the HOA would maintain the horse stalls and trails on the property as they are now.

Time ________________________________________________________ Has an appointment

 Richard Sadler of Carriage Cove Drive questioned what was special about the 30 acres that would be preserved with this development plan.

 Glen Kerley of Carriage Cove Drive said he wasn’t opposed to the development, but the extra traffic on his road, which isn’t state maintained, was a concern and he hoped that construction traffic could be limited.

Also, he said residents of Carriage Cove Drive meet the requirements to have NCDOT take over maintenance of their street and could petition to do so.

_________________________________ Time

Opponents

550 vehicle trips in and out of the development, noise and light pollution and loss of privacy were concerns.

_____________________ Date

developer would consider allowing Grey Fox residents to continue using the trails in the natural area, and he would certainly be willing to pay to do so, he said.

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Welcome to A weekly section in the Northwest Observer focused on our local youth and the adults who positively impact them.

youth / school NEWS

Northern Middle math teacher named GCS Employee of the Month NORTHERN GUILFORD – Being a great math teacher is important to Northern Middle’s Darla Page, but what’s even more important are the relationships she builds with her students. Whether she’s welcoming them to her classroom before school each morning or cheering them from the stands during an afterschool game, her students know she’s an advocate and a friend. On Feb. 7, Page was named Guilford County Schools’ Employee of the Month for February. She was nominated by her assistant principal, Noelle Leslie, who not-

ed that students say they love Ms. Page and Ms. Page loves them, too. She attends students’ games and rearranges her schedule to make sure she’s there for her students when they need her most.

“She always has a smile on her face whenever she is teaching, and it shows she loves what she does and she loves the students who fill up her classroom,” Leslie wrote when nominating Page for the honor. “Regardless of background, regardless of what students bring to school, Ms. Page uses her expertise and seasoned experience to ensure that her students are given

the very best.”

As Employee of the Month, Page received a $50 gift card from Sam’s Club, which has given more than $7,000 to outstanding GCS employees since 2005. During Darla Page the month of February, her photo will hang at the district’s central offices, at Northern Middle and at the Sam’s Club on Wendover Avenue.

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NWHS students receive Scholastic art awards

Northwest Guilford High School student Kayla McDougle displays two artwork pieces which earned her awards in the Scholastic Art Awards’ competition.

GUILFORD COUNTY – Nine GCS students were honored at the regional level for their entries in the Scholastic Art Awards competition. Founded in 1923, the awards are the nation’s longest-running, most prestigious recognition initiative for creative teens and the largest source of scholarships for young artists and writers. Photo courtesy of Guilford County Schools.

Seven students from Northwest Guilford High School were among Scholastic’s nine Gold and Silver Award recipients: Kayla McDougle, Mary Fenton, Catherine Gray,

Ryan Rivera, Savannah Raines, Madison Lindsey and Grayson Reeder; they are taught by art teachers Amber Bryant and Beth Herrick. NWHS students Will Ricks, Allison Rountree and Maxime Brown received honorable mentions in the art competition. Gold Key recipients McDougle, Fenton, Gray and Rivera’s artwork will be entered into Scholastic’s national competition, and they are invited to the national ceremony at Carnegie Hall this spring.

Season begins March 13 Practice locations in Summerfield, Oak Ridge and northwest Greensboro Questions? Email: rec@greensborounited.org

...continued on p. 14

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

FEB. 10 - 16, 2017

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.

NORTHWEST GUILFORD Maggey Odell, swimming/track by MARC PRUITT As if giving your all to both sports and academics during the school year isn’t enough to juggle, senior Maggey Odell pulled double duty during the winter sports season by participating on the swim team and the indoor track team. Odell, one of Northwest Guilford’s swimming captains, participated in the 100-meter backstroke, 50-meter freestyle, 100-meter freestyle, and 200-meter freestyle relay this season in the pool. On the track, she threw the shot put. How did she balance her time? “Track practice was usually right after school, until about 5:30,” she said. “After

track I’d go home, get something to eat, do some homework, and then head to swim practice, which usually started at 7:30. Some days, I would just do one or the other. If there was overlap between a swim meet or track meet, swimming was always the priority since I’m one of the captains. But I only had to miss one indoor track meet because of swimming. I feel like since I’m a captain, one of my biggest responsibilities is to lead by example.”

trial period to see if she would like it. “One of the coaches saw me running and told me she didn’t think I was much of a runner and that I needed to try the shot put. The first time was really hard and I didn’t throw it very far, but after working at it, I figured it out. Eventually, I started throwing the discus too.” Odell has been accepted to N.C. State and plans to major in biology and minor in Spanish with a goal of eventually becoming a physical therapist. When she is not in the pool or on the track, she is active with National Honor Society, Young Life Club, Spanish Honor Society and Make a Difference Club.

Track is still a relatively new pursuit for Odell, who just took it up last spring during outdoor season.

NORTHERN GUILFORD

She has been swimming since she was 5, getting her start in summer leagues for Hamilton Lakes and then Elks Club. She began year-round swimming with GSA when she was in third grade and later joined GCY (Greensboro Community YMCA)’s swim team; she gave up yearround swimming as a sophomore.

by JONATHAN WILLIAMS

“I was getting a little burned out and I discovered track, so it was fun to try something different,” Odell said. On a friend’s advice, she went out during the

Bryson Peele, theater Most great artists start their career at the bottom level and work their way up, and so it was with Northern junior Bryson Peele, whose acting career had a very humble beginning – he played a spoon in his fifth-

grade class’s production of “Beauty and the Beast.” In the six years since, Peele has had the opportunity to play a variety of characters through musical theatre, including roles in “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” “Shrek the Musical” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” “Theatre gives you the chance to see the world outside your own point of view,” Peele said. “I love to look into a character and feel who they are through internal dialogue between the character and you. You’re able to exercise empathy and put yourself in the shoes of that person.” Outside of theater class and school productions, Peele is also a member of Stagelights, a Greensboro-based youth theater program. He said he loves that the program gives performing opportunities to all of its students equally, whether they are ensemble members or leading actors. “Bryson eats, sleeps and breathes theater,” Northern drama teacher Anna Smith said of the young actor. “He just auditioned and got into Destination Broadway, where he will spend a week this summer working with Broadway professionals in New York City. It’s a huge undertaking to even audition, and a very big deal that he got in.” Many Destination Broadway alumni have gone on to play leading roles in

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

productions all across the nation, including “Les Miserables,” “Mary Poppins” and “The Music Man.” Although he has already been cast in one of his dream roles – as Lumière in Northern’s spring production of “Beauty and the Beast” – Peele dreams of someday seeing his name in bright lights on Broadway. He realizes he has a lot of hard work in front of him, and said he’s ready for the challenges ahead, both before and after his name appears on the marquee.

On a side note: Toughest Class: AP Environmental Science Favorite musical: “Rent” Favorite show: “Law and Order: SVU”

NORTHERN GUILFORD Ethan Strubinger, swimming by MARC PRUITT Senior Ethan Strubinger didn’t come up through the swimming ranks like most competitive swimmers do. He never swam during the summers for local pool teams nor did he gravitate towards year-round swimming. Strubinger, who swims the 200-meter and 500-meter for the Nighthawks, described his start in the pool as “swimmingso-I-wouldn’t-drown-swimming.” His swimming career started soon after Mrs. Coltrane, his sixth-grade English teacher at Northern Guilford Middle, let him know that high school swim coach Richard Swor was looking for kids to join a youth triathlon club he was forming. Triathlons are races that combine swimming, biking and running of various distances. “I was running track in middle school and was always pretty fast,” Strubinger

said. “It was a skill for me, so I wanted to put it to use.” Strubinger’s first workout with Swor was on a bike. Then they did a training run. Two weeks later, it was time to jump into the pool. “We realized very quickly that I had a lot of work to do,” Strubinger said. “I was basically starting from scratch, which was tough to do.” His first triathlon was about three months later, and combined a 350-meter swim, a 7-mile bike ride, and a 2-mile run. “Then I was hooked,” Strubinger said. “But even after that first race, I could see how far behind I was to year-round swimmers. It motivated me to focus on swimming more and more.” Strubinger, who is one of the team captains, has since competed in nearly 30 triathlons. His training time has been limited this school year because of his academic workload (he is academically ranked sixth in the Class of 2017) and because of swimming season, which is winding down.

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He has also been busy with Science Olympiad at Northern and for his senior project, is starting the same club at Northern Guilford Middle. He has already been accepted to Georgia Tech and will interview in February for N.C. State’s prestigious Park Scholarship. He is interested in becoming a material science engineer and has gained plenty of hands-on experience through mission trips he has taken to Nicaragua since he started high school. “We go to Managua Christian Academy and we’ve built a playground, a new kitchen and a new workshop,” Strubinger said. “There’s a cancer center that we’ve gone to the last two years to deliver meals to families, and we’ve played and sung with the kids. We’re still working on a two-story high school building that is needed because flooding destroyed the old building. I want to use my interest in engineering to make people’s lives better.”

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YOUTH news

...continued from p. 11

Stokesdale Parks and Recreation receives soccer association award Stokesdale Parks and Recreation recently received N.C. Youth Soccer Association’s 2017 Recreation Association of the Year award.

Although SPR has offered a soccer program for over 10 years, the program has only been affiliated with the NCYSA for just over three years.

Photo provided by Scott Hoffmann

(L to R) Stokesdale Parks and Recreation executive board Scott Hoffmann, members Scott Hoffmann, executive director of soccer; Rick the soccer program’s Pierce, vice president; and Jason Baynes, president, accept the executive director, N.C. Youth Soccer Association’s 2017 Recreation Association of said that having the Year award. NCYSA conduct a road show for soccer players contributed and a donation to Stokesdale Parks and to the program’s success. Recreation. The donation will be used “We had over 150 kids show up to par- to upgrade equipment for the soccer program. ticipate,” he noted. “We also were noticed for our positive reinforcement on the field and helping our youth in the community.” Hoffmann also credited the soccer program’s volunteers, noting that “without the 50-plus volunteers who help our youth and soccer organization of over 220 registered kids, we would not be successful.” NCYSA presented a glass trophy

“Another big thanks to all of our volunteers,” said Hoffmann. “This goes to show that we have one of the best organizations in our community.” Registration is currently open for SPR’s soccer and other spring programs. For more information, visit www.stokesdaleparksandrec.com.

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Ella Wachendorfer (500 free), Obadele Akan (500 free, 100 back), Madelaine Rountree (100 back), Hannah Koh (100 breast) and Abby Schoppa (100 breast).

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

High School Sports Notes by MARC PRUITT

Northern takes first, second in regional swim competition Northern Guilford High School’s boys swim team won the 3A Central Regional last Saturday at the Greensboro Aquatic Center and the girls team finished second. The boys finished with 330.5 points to ease past Cox Mill, which finished with 311 points. The girls finished with 319.5 points, with Cox Mill finishing first with 345 points.

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Freshman Preston Forst won two individual events (100-meter and 200-meter freestyle) and swam legs on two

winning relay teams (200-meter medley, 200-meter freestyle). Junior Caroline Daly won the 100-meter freestyle and swam a leg on the winning 200-meter freestyle relay team. She also qualified for the 3A state meet in the 50-meter freestyle. The NCHSAA 3A state championship will be held Saturday, Feb. 11 at Triangle Aquatic Center in Cary. Other state qualifiers from Northern are: Rebecca Glebus (200 free), Anna Vancil (200 free), Rachel Graham (200 IM, 100 back), Abby Schoppa (200 IM), Jeremy Lalumondier (200 IM, 100 breast), Gareth Williams (diving), Bryan Hill (100 fly), Ben Snider (100 fly), Jonathan Wachendorfer (100 free),

Sigmon, Zawadzki capture regional swim titles for Northwest Senior Heather Sigmon (100-meter backstroke) and junior Noah Zawadzki (diving) of Northwest Guilford High School captured individual titles at the 4A Central swimming regional last Saturday at the Greensboro Aquatic Center. The Northwest boys finished eighth in the team competition and the girls finished 11th. The following swimmers also qualified for Friday’s NCHSAA 4A state championship meet at Triangle Aquatic Center: Benjamin Riggs (200 IM, 100 fly), Lindsay Mann (diving), Phoebe Martin (500 free) and Ella Murphy (100 breast).

Athletes sign Letters of Intent Congratulations to these eight student-athletes from Northern Guilford High School who signed their National Letter of Intent on Feb. 2: Noah Auger (soccer, Mount Olive), Logan Clendon (soccer, UNC Greensboro), Jordan Lane (football, U.S. Military Academy (Army)), Jake Moore (football, Guilford), Ashley Rumley (soccer, Elon), Kayln Williamson (soccer, Wingate), Mallory Price (softball, John Wesley) and Colin McPartlar (lacrosse, Wingate). Congratulations to the following six student-athletes at Northwest Guilford who signed their National Letter of Intent on Feb. 2: Tess Albert (soccer, High Point), Tegan Dean (soccer, LeesMcRae), Thomas Hennigan (football, Appalachian State), Savannah Raines (soccer, Savannah College of Art and Design), Olivia Templeton (golf, Pfeiffer) and Tori Wagner (soccer, Ferrum).

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BUSINESS notes Welcome to our new advertisers! Colfax Furniture & Mattress Colfax Furniture & Mattress has been a fixture in the Triad area since its first store opened in Kernersville more than 50 years ago. Today, the Mandy Jeffries is the Greensboroowner and general based business manager of Colfax Furniture & Mattress. has four store locations and is the largest woman-owned furniture retailer in the country. Mandy Jeffries, the furniture retailer’s owner and general manager, is pleased to announce the company’s newest store has opened in the Westridge Square shopping center, 3363 Battleground Ave. in northwest Greensboro.

Point Furniture Market samples. “The new location at Westridge Square will offer customers all the beautiful and unique market samples that Colfax is known for,” Jeffries said, noting the Westridge Square store will be a smaller version of the company’s other three retail locations, and will feature furniture and mattresses for those living in smaller-scale spaces. “We currently provide furnishings for so many homes and apartments in this area and know that a location with product specific to the unique needs of this growth area will be beneficial to these shoppers,” she said. Jeffries lives in northwest Greensboro with her husband, Josh, and two children. She also appears as the spokesperson in television commercials for Colfax Furniture & Mattress.

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Vince Williams developed a love for creating natural-looking landscapes while constructing his first water feature at his home in 1989. About eight years later, he decided to take his experience in fine home building, electrical contracting, retail nursery sales, wholesale growing operations, and past employment with the Triad’s largest landscape design/build firm and form his own company, Creative Garden Spaces. Based in northwest Guilford County, CGS offers landscape construction, outdoor lighting and custom design projects. Since making its debut almost 20 years ago, the design/build company has installed water features of every size and shape, and has been involved in hundreds of landscape projects. Known for designing and building outdoor living spaces that specialize in “the most natural water features and the highest quality landscape lighting,” CGS is more of a passion than just a product or service, Williams says. The CGS team enjoys creating landscaping plans that reflect clients’ individuality as well as the unique terrain surrounding them – and that transform the most ordinary lawns into luxurious works of art. “We take pride in our innovative ideas and artistic eye for detail,” Williams says. Exceeding clients’ expectations is another thing the CGS teams takes pride in. “We consider our involvement in every new project a privilege, and we’ve gained many friends through our shared enthusiasm of fine gardening,” Williams says.

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Owner Vince Williams and the team at Creative Garden Spaces enjoy transforming ordinary lawns into natural-looking works of art.

Besides enjoying spending free time with family, Williams donates his talents for charities such as Victory Junction in Randleman, a camp for kids with special healthcare needs, where he designed and built a water feature and playhouse.

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BITS & PIECES

Republican Women install 2017 ofﬁcers The Northwest Republican Women Club has installed the following officers for 2017: Kathy Flanigan, president; Judith Reiter, vice president; Jill Sitton, secretary; and Dena Barnes,

treasurer. The club meets the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.; for more info, contact Kathy Flanigan at (336) 643-6155 or find the group on Facebook.

‘Interim’ removed from president’s title Oak Ridge Military Academy’s board of trustees voted unanimously on Jan. 19 to remove the “interim” designation from President John Haynes’ title. “John Haynes has demonstrated his leadership abilities at Oak Ridge Military Academy during the past year,” said Dr. Woody Gibson, chairman of the board. “Since he was hired in January 2016, financial donations are up, enrollment is trending upward, programs for the

cadets have been implemented, and the academy and its cadets have benefited. The removal of the ‘interim’ label is a signal from the board of trustees that it believes in John Haynes the leadership provided by President Haynes.”

AARP offers tax prep help AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide offers free, individualized tax preparation for low- to moderate-income taxpayers – especially those 50 and older – at more than 5,000 locations nationwide. Near the northwest Guilford County

Nonproﬁt collecting retired combat uniforms The nonprofit maCares assists dozens of organizations and is collecting retired combat camouflage military uniforms to repurpose into handcrafted items for its Operation Uniform sale. Through faithCares, a division of maCares, proceeds from the sale will be used to support service dogs for veterans who suffer from the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury. Some of the items being made from the uniforms are wristlets and iPad/uni-

versal tablet covers.

Drop off retired combat camouflage military uniforms Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or ship to: Attn: maCares-Operation Uniform, 1302 Pleasant Ridge Road, Greensboro, NC 27409. Email wecare@ maCares.org or call (336) 478-4086 if you would like to order an item made from your donated uniform. To learn more about maCares’ events and giveback opportunities or to make a tax-deductible monetary donation, visit www.maCares.org.

GUM seeks community’s help After serving record numbers of homeless and hungry people in 2016, Greensboro Urban Ministry is turning to the community for help to avoid suspending emergency food assistance.

“We have less than one week’s supply of food on our pantry shelves. Our ability to help those in need is directly related

...continued on p. 26

area, assistance is offered at The Kernersville Senior Center, 130 E. Mountain St., Kernersville (by appointment only). Call (336) 992-0591 or 992-3180 for dates, times and to schedule an appointment.

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THURSDAY, FEB. 9  Q&A Session | Summerfield Town Council will hold a special meeting on Feb. 9, 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Summerfield First Baptist Church, 2300 Scalesville Road. The purpose of the meeting is to give citizens an opportunity to ask questions about a proposed text amendment that would add a Planned Development zoning district to the Town’s development ordinance.  Republican Women Club | Northwest Republican Women Club will meet Feb. 9 from 7 to 9 p.m. Call Kathy Flanagan, club president, at (336) 254-3051 for information about the meeting location and other details.

 Stokesdale Town Council | The Town Council will meet Feb. 9, 7 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. More info and agenda: www.stokesdale.org.

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 NWHS To Honor Champions | During halftime of the mens varsity basketball game, which begins at 7:30 p.m., Northwest Guilford High School will honor its 1966-67 men’s basketball team, which won the only state basketball championship in the school’s history. Prior to the ceremony, members of the school’s Class of 1967 are invited to a Meet and Greet in the school cafeteria – RSVP to Bill North at (336) 207-4226 or wlnorthjr77@gmail.com.

 Northwest Guilford Women’s Club |An informational meeting about forming the Northwest Guilford Women’s Club will be held Feb. 15, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road in Oak Ridge. More info: call Shannon Depp at (919) 909-6900 or email shannonodepp@yahoo.com.

SATURDAY, FEB. 11  #NorthernGivesBack! | Northern Guilford Middle School and its PTSA are hosting a community-wide food drive from 9 a.m. until noon at NGMS, 616 SimpsonCalhoun Road, Greensboro. Drop off non-perishable food donations in the front parking lot (or, in case of inclement weather, inside the front hallway). More info: (336) 605-3342 or mdkmjsivret@earthlink.net.

MONDAY, FEB. 13  Blood Drive | Oak Ridge United Methodist Church, 2424 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge, will host a community-wide blood drive from 2:30 until 7 p.m. on Feb. 13. Visit www.oakridgeumc.org to schedule an appointment; walk-ins will be processed as quickly as possible. More info: call (336) 643-8348 or email bobyarb@gmail.com.

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THURSDAY, FEB. 16  Senior Program and Lunch | Senior Resources of Guilford will host a free program and luncheon for seniors over 60 on Feb. 16, 10:30 a.m. at Summerfield United Methodist Church, 2334 Scalesville Road, Summerfield. RSVP to Amanda at (336) 373-4816, ext. 265, or ruraloutreach@senior-resources-guilford.org.

THURSDAY, FEB. 16  Summerfield Town Council | The Town Council will meet Feb. 16, 6:30 p.m. at Summerfield First Baptist Church, 2300 Scalesville Road (note, this is a day-of-the-week and location change from Summerfield’s usual monthly council meetings). A public hearing for a proposed text amendment that would add a Planned Development (PD) zoning district to the town’s development ordinance will be held during this meeting. More info and a detailed meeting agenda: www.summerfieldgov.com.

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CRIME / INCIDENT report Guilford County Sheriff’s Office, District 1 has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest Guilford County. The District 1 office, one of three district offices in Guilford County, encompasses Oak Ridge, Summerfield, Stokesdale, Colfax and northwest and northern Greensboro.

Credit, debit card fraud on the rise Det. Wiley with Guilford County Sheriff’s Office reports that law enforcement has seen an uptick in the amount of compromised financial cards being reported. “A lot of these cases involve debit cards which, unlike credit cards, draw straight from your checking and savings accounts,” Wiley said. “Be wary when using a debit card for everyday purchases, due to the increased risk of having your accounts compromised. Banks can take time to refund money to checking accounts, and in some cases outright refuse to reimburse due to their perceived customer’s culpability.” Use your debit card sparingly and only at locations that are trustworthy, Wiley advised. Also, be careful when entering your PIN and never give it to

someone you don’t know or trust. Credit cards add a layer of protection for yourself in that the issuing financial institution provides the funds for the transaction and does not hold your personal account liable.

ALCOHOL/DWI

suspect pushed him twice and slammed his left hand into a doorway at the Stokesdale Elementary School gym at 8025 U.S. 158. The incident reportedly occurred as the victim was leaving the gym around 1 p.m.

Jan. 31 | A known offender was stopped at a license checkpoint on Pleasant Ridge Road in Summerfield at 11:45 a.m.; after showing signs of impairment, she was arrested for DWI and transported to the jail in Greensboro. Feb. 1 | A known offender was stopped and arrested for DWI on Carlson Dairy Road in Summerfield around 10:45 p.m.

ASSAULT Feb. 4 | A resident of West Harrell Road in Oak Ridge reported a known

FEB. 10 - 16, 2017

And while cash is the least risky option for payments, Wiley acknowledged it is not always the most convenient in our online and digital age.

need help? Contact your financial institutions immediately if you are the victim of identity theft or fraud. Also, contact law enforcement through the non-emergency number at (336) 373-2222 (or if you feel it is an emergency, call 911).

age to the home’s exterior door was estimated at $300.

THEFT

DRUGS Feb. 5 | Known suspects were cited and released for drug charges in the parking lot of Bi-Rite at 8632 U.S. 158 in Stokesdale around 4:35 p.m. Two individuals were cited for Schedule II narcotics and one suspect was cited for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

RESISTING ARREST Feb. 2 | A known offender, who had just committed a burglary at a Crooked Oak Drive residence in Summerfield, began driving repeatedly in circles around 11:23 a.m. on a U.S. 220 service road in Summerfield to prevent being pulled over by a sheriff’s deputy. The driver and his passenger were later arrested for the burglary which had occurred earlier in the morning. The driver was served 24 warrants and is in the Greensboro jail under a $250,000 secure bond.

Feb. 2 | A Samsung cell phone valued at $200 was stolen from a restroom at the Circle K on Norcross Road in Colfax between 9:30 and 10:30 a.m.

VANDALISM Feb. 1 | The owner of DTW Transport in Stokesdale reported that one of the company’s dump trucks was vandalized at the construction site of the I-73 bypass near Henson Forest Drive in Summerfield sometime between 8 a.m. and noon. A known suspect drove the truck into a ditch, causing damage in excess of $1,000 to the front bumper and underside frame; the owner was advised of her option to pursue a warrant.

District 1 Sheriff’s Office 7506 Summerfield Road Main number: (336) 641-2300 Report non-emergency crime-related incidents by calling: (336) 373-2222 • 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., M-F www.guilfordcountysheriff.com

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BURGLARY Feb. 2 | At 11:26 a.m., a resident of Crooked Oak Drive in Summerfield reported suspects forced open the back door to his residence. A wooden jewelry box and its contents, valued at $100, were stolen but later recovered. Dam-

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TOWN COUNCIL ...continued from p. 9

average square footage needed for an individual septic and repair area, Dischinger said typically 2,500 to 3,500 square feet per bedroom is needed.

 5  0 to approve the development’s

sketch plan as presented.

Council discussion prior to voting on the rezoning included comments from Kinneman, who said he favored the rezoning and the development plan because it would have two entrances, which divides the traffic, stub streets to connect to other neighborhoods when future development takes place, a minimum amount of trees will be cut down, the existing homestead and stables will be preserved and a community well system ensures that if something goes wrong the provider has to solve the problem. McClellan said he wished the property would remain as a horse farm, but unfortunately, no one wanted to buy it as such. “We are fortunate that this land and what is being developed here meets what a Rural Preservation District is supposed to do, and this is an effort to preserve the reason why people come to Oak Ridge,” he said. Stone said the proposed development presented some unique solutions to this piece of property. Before closing, he suggested that adjoining property owners be invited to join the HOA so they can continue using the walking trails and open space on the property. Saying the development plan addresses a need for smaller homes on smaller lots, Sullivan added – “We don’t have a lot of those choices. I think this is a good solution for this piece of property.”

 5  0 to approve the rezoning

request.

Text Amendment. Council agreed to follow the Planning and Zoning’s Board’s lead and continue discussion of proposed text amendments to the town’s development ordinance; the public hearing scheduled for this meeting was moved to the March 2 meeting.

CITIZEN COMMENTS  Jim Burnette said he and his wife, Sam, had planted about 5,000 trees on the property that had just been rezoned, but he wanted to publicly state that Sam had done most of the work.  Shannon Depp said after moving to Oak Ridge with her husband and four sons in July, she discovered there wasn’t a club for women to do civic planning and organization for the community. Through North Carolina General Federation of Women’s Clubs, which focuses on community improvement through civic, cultural and educational activities, she was in the process of starting a chapter in northwest Guilford County. Her father is a Vietnam veteran and one objective of the club will be to help veterans. An organizational meeting will be held Wednesday, Feb. 15, 6:30 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall.

FINANCE REPORT Finance Officer Sam Anders reported the town recently received its distribution of ABC profits for the quarter ending in December, and at $60,944 was the highest ABC profit sharing distribution yet. Bank of North Carolina is being acquired by Pinnacle Financial Partners of Nashville, Tennessee, and Anders will continue to monitor the town’s investments with BNC throughout the merger implementation process.

COMMUNITY UPDATES

meeting will be held March 6, 7 p.m. The deadline for grant applications is March 27. A historic Oak Ridge event is being planned to showcase historic properties in and around the town’s historic district; Schneider said the commission hopes to work with owners of historic properties, Merchants of Oak Ridge and others to plan the event. A planning meeting was scheduled for Feb. 8 at Town Hall and on subsequent second Wednesdays of the month. Schneider was recently re-elected as commission chair and Debbie Shoenfeld as vice-chair. Finance. Chair John Jenkins said the committee would meet Feb. 6 at 6 p.m. to do a preliminary review of this year’s budget and projections for next fiscal year. Planning & Zoning. Chair Ron Simpson said he was recently re-elected as chairman and Bobbi Baker as vice chair of the board. On a personal note, Simpson said he and his family had been drawn to Oak Ridge because it was horse-friendly, and the Burnettes had created a tremendous horse property off Oak Ridge Road. “In a sense it’s heart-breaking to see it turned into residential property, but it seems a good way to preserve some of the equestrian aspects,” he said.

COUNCIL COMMENTS  Kinneman said the Burnettes had wanted to sell their property as a horse farm, but had tried for three years and

weren’t successful. “I know it was a hard decision and I appreciate it,” he said. Regarding taxes, Kinneman reminded everyone that the major portion of their taxes are paid to Guilford County, not Oak Ridge. He encouraged residents to take advantage of one of the benefits the county offers, which is free soil sampling. “Now would be a great time to do it and get back the soil analysis before spring,” he said. “And remember we are in a watershed, so everything you put down (i.e., fertilizer) goes back into our water.” Kinneman said he was glad the town completed the sidewalk extension so the sidewalk now goes from Scoggins Road to Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center, and more sidewalks are planned for the future. The Lions Club is offering a $1,000 scholarship, and on Feb. 13, Oak Ridge United Methodist Church will host its bimonthly blood drive from 2:30 to 7 p.m. “Three tablespoons of blood can save an infant’s life,” Kinneman noted.  McClellan and Sullivan thanked the town’s volunteers, and Sullivan told the Burnettes they would be missed in Oak Ridge. Finally, Sullivan said after eight years, it is again time for the county to revalue properties; there is an appeal process for those who don’t agree with their revalued property assessment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:47 p.m.

 Merchants of Oak Ridge president Phillip Hanks announced the association will give a $2,000 scholarship to a NWHS senior this spring. For details and to download a scholarship application, visit merchantsofoakridge.com/scholarship. Historic Preservation. Chair Ann Schneider said the commission approved three Certificates of Appropriateness last month, one for a new sign for L&T Small Engine Repair, another for signage on a building at 8001 Marketplace, and a third for a new home that Bill and Pam Lemmons will be building on Linville Road. This year’s historic grant program was recently announced and an informational

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

FEB. 10 - 16, 2017

LETTERS/OPINIONS Submit your editorials (maximum 350 words) online: nwobserver.com e-mail : editor@nwobserver.com mail: Opinions, PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310

place “As a Muslim” with “As an American” and see if it changes your opinion of me, as a Muslim. You see, I do all of these things as a Muslim American, living my life to make a difference and to make our world better, in any way that I can. And the majority of the Muslims in our country live the same way. We as Muslims have no goal to take over the

Include your name, a daytime phone number where you can be reached and name of community in which you live.

GRINS and GRIPES

Letters from the same writer will be published no more than every 30 days.

Are you listening, Sen. Berger? Phil Berger… are you listening, Phil? You’ve got until mid-March to put a vote on the floor to repeal HB2 or lose “dozens of NCAA championships for the next six years.”

HB2 is inflicting on your constituents. The people of Rockingham and Guilford County in your Senate District 26 are waking up to the fact that we can vote you out of office.

I’m not any more or less safe in a public bathroom than I was before HB2 passed. I am not afraid of my fellow transgender citizens. I can’t even understand what you want me to be afraid of. It’s time for you to put ideology aside and look at the economic pain

Are you representing us these days, or some far-right, well-funded special interest group from who-knows-where? Better hurry, Phil, before March Madness hits hard. Martha Shafer, SUMMERFIELD

President Trump’s ban on Muslims is just plain wrong In living in this wonderful country of ours for 36 years now, I continue to see more beauty than not, and more love than hate. Regardless of who is in the White House, our morals and values should continue to be strong, and our faith even stronger. As a Muslim, I love God. As a Muslim, I love Jesus. As a Muslim, I love my country. As a Muslim, I love my fellow Christians, Jews, Sikhs, Hindus, and all the different faiths and creations of God. I love the various creations of God because I choose to seek to understand what we have in common rather than

FEB. 10 - 16, 2017

what makes us different. And I choose to appreciate what makes us different, because I believe that you really can learn something new every day. As a community we can choose to stick together or be torn apart, and I sincerely hope we choose to stick together. As a Muslim, I volunteer at my kids’ school, I volunteer to coach two youth soccer teams, I volunteer with my religious group, to help the needy and the youth. As a Muslim I work hard, and pay my fair share of taxes, and support my local community. Now, go back in my writing, and re-

world, or injure or hurt others. A true Muslim has one goal, submit to God and live life by the words of God. I hope this will help ease some of the misunderstandings about our beautiful religion. I hope this will allow people to see why banning Muslims from our country is wrong. Maqsood Khan, GREENSBORO

Delighted or dismayed by something in your community? Share your thoughts in words or less online: nwobserver.com

e-mail: grinsandgripes@nwobserver.com Grins & Gripes are published based on available space and editor’s discretion.

GRINS to...

 General Kelly with Homeland Security for standing up to Steve Bannon and allowing green card carriers into the United States. We need you to stand on your truths and values at this difficult time.  The young man at the Dollar General in Summerfield on Saturday, Feb. 4, early afternoon. You were kind, respectful and very helpful when I asked you for help with understanding my receipt.  Summerfield Road drivers who stop in the morning to allow drivers to turn left onto Pleasant Ridge Road so we can get our kids to school on time.  Islam, the second largest religion, and 1.6 billion people for not seeking world domination, instead staying busy inventing algebra, hospitals, universities, the crankshaft, coffee and toothbrushes (my fav). Grins also to Christians (2.2 billion), Jews and all others for their share.  Last week’s editorial reply to Mr. Issenock’s editorial. I also respect the comments themselves, as everyone has a right

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

to an opinion. Glad this came to be a dialogue rather than yet another “alternative fact” based on Glenn Beck’s book.  The people in stores who forget their manners. “Excuse me” goes a long way when you’re trying to maneuver your way through. Saying that you are sorry after you’ve bulldozed your way through doesn’t make it right.  Jim Kinneman, Oak Ridge Town Councilman and Oak Ridge Lion, for picking up tons of litter and recyclables at the bridge on Linville Road.  The two young men who helped me Monday morning when my car broke down in the middle of N.C. 68 and U.S. 158 in Stokesdale. God bless you both!

GRIPES to...  People who think compromise is a dirty word. The whole mentality of “my way or no way” is tearing this country apart. Being able to find common ground is what used to make this country great.  The young driver in the Chevy Tahoe

who almost caused a major wreck. My toddler heard your vulgar language. We had the right of way – a little kindness never hurt anyone.

ing.” Are you kidding me? The appeal of living here is the Southern, slow pace, friendly, hospitable way of Carolina, not snobs who steal our happy place.

someone as “lazy.” This could’ve been a single mom going to pick up her child and the “regular” lights went out on the way to her child’s destination.

 The town planners who decided the Bojangles’ location was a good idea. It’s bad enough that people brake instantly when they see it (similar to a dog hearing “squirrel”), but now the office park driveway is always blocked.

 Those who categorize all Muslims as evil. I recommend these three books, written by non-Muslim authors: “The First Muslim” by Lesley Hazleton; “Muhammad” by Karen Armstrong and “Misquoting Muhammad” by Jonathan A.C. Brown.

 The people who hate President Trump. We will still pray for you, even though your thoughts of America’s safety don’t fit with ours.

 Those who don’t use turn signals. The life expectancy of turn signal bulbs in this area must approach perpetuity. I guess I have to further develop my ESP skills to determine the turning direction of vehicles at intersections!  Tractor trailer drivers who use commuter roadways during rush hour. Other states have enacted laws which do not permit heavy trucks on roadways during high commuter volume to mitigate accidents and delays. Common sense is not so common.  Those who view $175,000 to $300,000 homes as “low-income hous-

 The people complaining about those who supported Trump and belittling Trump himself. It’s not respectful of others’ views, and it’s not respectful to say nasty things about the highest office in the country, regardless of how much you dislike him!

 The folks in Summerfield who are busy littering the town with “NO PD Zoning” signs. If you would spend that much time volunteering in the town,

 The suggestion that a Clinton continuation and exacerbation of Obama’s disastrous foreign and domestic policies would have constituted “thoughtful competence in American leadership and international relations.” I’m sure the dictators in Iran and North Korea would agree with you!  Northern High School parents/ students who use Michelle Landing’s entrance to make a U-turn. Please wait in line like everyone else, before you cause an accident.  The person(s) who took my mailbox cover.

 Last week’s griper who complained about Trump “telling blatant lies.” Let’s not forget about Hillary’s never-ending lies about her emails, health, and much more...  The person griping about “bright headlights.” Don’t be so quick to judge

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 The federal judges who lifted the travel ban, but yet allowed Obama to get away with unconstitutional laws. I see that you put your own political beliefs over the safety of the American people.

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BITS & PIECES

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...continued from p. 19

to the community’s support,” said the Rev. Myron W. Wilkins, GUM’s executive director. “We’re asking everyone in the community who can help us to donate food as generously as they can.” Food donations are received 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday at GUM’s main site, 305 W. Gate City Blvd. in downtown Greensboro. Donations may also be placed in GUM food donation boxes at local grocery stores, or monetary donations for food may be made at www.greensborourbanministry.org. GUM distributed 1,058,152 pounds of food to the community in 2016 through the food pantry and Potter’s House Community Kitchen, which serves lunch daily to anyone in the community who is hungry. The majority of the food, 759,737 pounds, was distributed through the food pantry to men, women and families with children needing food assistance. For men, women and families with children living in poverty, choices are constant and challenging. Food, utilities,

NEWS in brief

Visit www.greensborourbanministry.org/ services/food-bank/ for a list of items needed in the food pantry. The Boy Scouts and postal workers host food drives in February and May, respectively, and GUM partners with congregations and grocery stores in April and October for two large community food drives. In addition, schools, businesses and civic groups also hold food drives during the year. The agency also budgets some funding during the year to fill in when shelf supply dwindles – this amount has been expended for the year, Wilkins said.

...continued from p. 3

had hoped the property could be kept as a horse farm, but after being on the market for the last three years, they had not been successful and the plan presented by LD Equity to residentially develop their property was by far the best one that had been proposed. The council approved the Burnette’s request to rezone the property to CU-RPD (Conditional Use-Rural Preservation District), which requires that 50 percent open space be preserved in exchange for smaller lots. Speaking on behalf of the developers, Bob Dischinger, president of Evans Engineering, told the council at the public hearing that most of the new homes would be built on lot sizes of

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transportation or rent? This situation is all too common in Greensboro, which is ranked among the fastest-growing metropolitan areas of urban poverty in the nation, according to the Brookings Institution (2014, 2016). The area is ranked the ninth highest in the country in food insecurity issues, meaning households have inconsistent and/or inadequate access to needed food (Food Research and Action Center, 2016).

15,000 to 20,000 square feet; the majority of the homes will be three bedrooms, but some will have only two bedrooms and some will have four bedrooms. The average home size will be 2,500 square feet. Homes will be served by a community well, and there will be two entrances to the new development – one off Carriage Cove Drive and the other, a new entrance road near Misty Hollow Lane. Thirty wooded acres to the rear of the property will be preserved as open space, along with the existing walking trails. For details on the public hearing at the Feb. 2 council meeting, see Oak Ridge Town Council meeting coverage in this issue, beginning on p. 8.

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TOWN OF SUMMERFIELD Planned Development (PD) upcoming meetings: Special called Town Council meeting, Thursday, Feb. 9, 6:30pm, Summerfield First Baptist Church; monthly Town Council meeting, Thursday, Feb. 16, 6:30pm, Summerfield First Baptist Church.

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DRIVERS CDL-A: SIGN-ON BONUS! Great benefits & hometime! Solos, teams or part-time! Run TX, FL, CO, CA. Five years OTR exp. (336) 854-0990. FULL-TIME FORKLIFT OPERATOR Local warehousing company is looking for a reliable, high-energy, team player with a minimum of two years forklift experience. Please submit resume to lewisstoragejobs@ gmail.com.

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

FULL-TIME GENERAL SERVICE automotive position – oil/lube tech., tire changes, etc. Competitive pay DOE. M&M Tire & Auto, 5570 US Hwy. 220N, Summerfield. Apply in person; no phone calls please.

INDEX

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE Well-established marketing service company looking for call center customer service representatives to join our staff. Both P/T and F/T positions available. Call center experience preferred. Interested candidates please submit resume to info@rsvpcomm.com.

Employment ............................... 27 Save the Date ............................ 27 Yard Sales .................................. 27 Home Services ....................... 27-29 Misc. Services.............................. 29

Place your

classified ad

online at

Misc. for Sale ............................. 29 Misc. Wanted ............................. 29

for just $4 per line

Pets & Animal Services ................ 29

Deadline is the Monday before each Friday’s issue

Real Estate ............................ 29-30

FREE VALENTINE’S DINNER & DANCE, Saturday, February 11, 6-10pm, at Gideon Grove United Methodist Church, 2865 Gideon Grove Church Rd., Stokesdale. All ages welcome. Join us for dinner, dancing, photo booth, fun, fellowship. Adult chaperones will be present. Call (336) 643-6042 for more information. KIDS CONSIGNMENT SALE, Fri., Feb. 24, 9am-8pm; Saturday, Feb. 25, 8am-1pm (some items 50% off on Sat.), St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 2715 Horse Pen Creek Rd., GSO. www.stpaulskidssale.com.

YARD SALES FINAL MOVING SALE, Saturday, Feb. 11, 8am-12n, 6504 Peppermill Dr., Oak Ridge. 60x60” kitchen/dining table, freezer, microwave & dishwasher, lighting fixtures, ‘91 Camry, palette of bricks, kitchen items, dresser & night table, clothing, custom blinds. Everything must go! (336) 202-6949. GARAGE SALE, Fri. & Sat., Feb. 10 & 11, 8am-1pm, 7521 Kristen Dr., Oak Ridge. Futon, full-size bed, two night stands, wooden desk, misc. household items and more.

HOME SERVICES CLEANING RESIDENTIAL ORGANIZATION & Relocation Services: de-clutter and configuration, packing, unpacking & set-up; garage, basement, living room, kitchen and playroom. Call Nicka Davis, (336) 382-1124, for a FREE consultation! MAID-2-SHINE. Excellent service, 15 years exp. Free estimates., excellent references. (336) 338-0223.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

HOME CLEANING. Afford. rates, ref. avail., 10 years exp. Elizabeth, (336) 453-8592. MAIDS OF HONOR, INC. Triad’s oldest! $25 off! 40 years in service. Bonded staff. English speaking. (336) 708-2407. MARIA’S CLEANING SERVICE. Free estimates, guaranteed service. (336) 552-1990. CastleWorks WINDOW CLEANING Includes gutters, pressure washing, chandeliers and other high ladder work. Fully insured and bonded, free estimates. (336) 609-0677. www.castleworkswindowcleaning.com.

What’s going on around town? See what your neighbors are commenting on today! facebook.com/northwestobserver CARPET CLEANING. We clean the dirt out of your carpet, not the money out of your pockets! Call David, Cleaning Solutions, (336) 989-4318, thecleaning.solutions or find us on FB at Cleaning Solutions Carpet Cleaning. CHRISTIAN MOM needs work cleaning houses, running errands. Will fit to your budget. Pet taxi/pet sitting also avail. References. Call Laura Bennett, (336) 231-1838. MAID 2 GLIMMER. Amazon approved. Call (336) 441-8388 or visit Maid2Glimmer.com. STEPHANIE’S CLEANING SERVICE 10 years experience. (336) 423-9786. CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING, gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. windowcleaningnc.com. (336) 595-2873.

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

...continued on p. 28

FEB. 10 - 16, 2017

HOME SERVICES FLOORING MONTERO’S HARDWOOD FLOORING Installation of hardwood, laminate & tile; hardwood sanding & finishing. Commercial & residential. Insured, 17 years experience. Free estimates & excellent references. Visit Monteros-hardwood-flooring.com, or call (336) 215-8842.

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

Decks | Patios | Roofing Windows | Gutters REPAIRS | RENOVATIONS

(336) 643-0531 haleyhahn.com Licensed & insured

JLB REMODELING, INC. Home repair, maintenance & handyman service. Licensed & insured. Competitive rates. (336) 681-2902 or www.jlbremodeling.com. APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance. A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707. GENERAL HOME REPAIR, bathroom repair, small/odd jobs. (336) 644-8710, 708-0522.

Want to reach our readers?

Call (336) 644-7035 for more info. L & T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE LLP “We get you mowing!” Free pickup and delivery. 2103 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge. (336) 298-4314. MOWER REPAIR. Any type mower, weld and repair mower decks. Free pickup and delivery. Call or text Morris, (336) 880-7498. GARY’S HANDYMAN HOME SERVICES “Providing value for the home-ownership experience.” Gary Gellert, serving NC’s Piedmont Triad area. Garygellert@gmail.com, (336) 423-8223.

FEB. 10 - 16, 2017

HOME SERVICES

OLD SCHOOL HOME REPAIR/ IMPROVEMENT

“No Job Too Small”

Jerry & Lisa Potkay, Owners • Oak Ridge, NC

(336) 669-7252

Accredited A+ Rating, oldschoolsjhr@triad.rr.com BBB of Central NC Home Repairs & Improvements • Painting Wood Rot Repairs • Bathroom Remodeling Decks and much more! • Insured

GRADING / HAULING

HOME SERVICES ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call (336) 382-9875. CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, (336) 6439332, carolinaStumpAndTreeServices.com. ORTIZ LANDSCAPING, complete lawn care. Trimming, cleaning, planting & mulch, gutter cleaning, patios & pavers, waterfalls, retaining walls, sidewalks, stonework. Residential and commercial. (336) 280-8981.

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

FAY’S LAWNCARE & LANDSCAPING Snow plowing, tree pruning, general yard clean up. Pine needles & mulch. Reasonable and honest. Call Taylor, (336) 464-5215.

E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Driveways, fill dirt, topsoil, lot clearing, bobcat work, excavating, mulch, etc. (336) 451-1282.

AREA STUMP DUMP. Yard waste, concrete, etc. Fill dirt avail. (336) 602-5820.

BRAD’S BOBCAT & HAULING SVCS. LLC Debris removal, grading, gravel/dirt, driveways, concrete work. (336) 362-3647.

BRAD’S BOBCAT. Mulch, landscaping, pine needles and straw. (336) 362-3647.

ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt available. Zane Anthony, (336) 362-4035.

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 (336) 643-9157.

PEARMAN QUARRY HAULING

MASONRY

Fill dirt, gravel, sand rock, mulch & more. Joel Richardson, (336) 803-2195.

LAWN CARE / LANDSCAPING WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Complete lawn care & landscaping. NC lic. irrigation contractor. 20 years exp. Hardscaping, fertilization & weed control. (336) 399-7764. GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490. STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Lic/Ins. 30 yrs. exp. Bucket truck/chipper, total cleanup. Selective thinning & lot clearing. 24-hr. ER svc. OR, NC. (336) 643-1119. TRACTOR FOR HIRE - Bush hogging, grading, brush/tree removal. (336) 207-6632.

HOME SERVICES

SOUTHERN STYLE concrete & landscapes. How about a new patio or fire pit? We can help with all of your outdoor living and entertainment spaces! Fire pits, driveways & sidewalks, patios and more! Give us a call at (336) 399-6619 for all your concrete and landscape needs. MASONRY CONCEPTS, brick, block, stone, concrete & repairs. Free estimates. (336) 988-1022, www.masonryconceptsgso.com.

MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS GAS LOGS, WOOD STOVES, INSERTS, fireplaces, sold, serviced and repaired. Call Don Hill, (336) 643-7183. ON EAGLE’S WINGS residential home design/drafting. Call Patti, (336) 605-0519.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

PAINTING & DRYWALL CINDY’S PAINTING – Interior painting, wallpaper removal. References & free estimates available. (336) 708-9155. PAINTING – INTERIOR & EXTERIOR 32 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. No job too small. Insured. Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186. STILL PERFECTION PAINTING Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com.

BEK Paint Co. Residential & Commercial David & Judy Long, owners

(336) 931-0600

BEKPaintCompany.com • References Available • Licensed & Insured • All Work Guaranteed

PLUMBING BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic. & insured. Call Mark, (336) 337-7924. WEBSTER & SONS PLUMBING, Inc. (336) 992-2503. Licensed, insured, bonded. 24/7 service. Plumbing, drain cleaning, well pumps. Give us a call, we do it all! Go to www.webstersplumbing.com for more info.

HOME SERVICES

MISC. FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE

POWER WASHING

CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC Residential roofing, rubber flat roofs, roof coating, metal roofs. 30 years experience. Now accepting all major credit cards. Call (336) 643-8191 or (336) 580-3245.

MAISY DAISY FLORIST Love is in the air! 10% discount on all orders placed before February 10. We are open Sunday, Feb. 12! Our delivery areas include Stokesdale, Oak Ridge, Summerfield, Kernersville, Walkertown, Madison/Mayodan, Walnut Cove, High Point and Greensboro. We can ship flowers to anywhere in the USA! (336) 441-8611, maisydaisyflorist.com.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

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

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

Services TM Construction , INC

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 (336) 944-6118, or visit redrhinoroofing.com.

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Outdoor living spaces | Fire pits

644-8615 office 508-5242 cell Licensed & insured NC Gen. Contractor #72797

MISC. SERVICES OFFICE ORGANIZATION & Relocation Services: Filing systems (paperless), declutter, configuration, packing, unpacking & set up. Workflow mgmt. Call Nicka Davis, (336) 382-1124, for a FREE consultation!

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

HIGHLY QUALIFIED TUTOR AVAILABLE, master’s in Education, 25 years teaching exp., math K-5, all other subjects all ages. Homework support, EOG prep. Flexible hours. (336) 317-0742.

JLB REMODELING, INC. Remodeling and additions. Fully insured. NC GC license #69997. Free est. Call (336) 681-2902 or visit www.jlbremodeling.com.

COMPUTER REPAIRS – ITBASICS.COM Inside Mailboxes & More, Oak Ridge Commons. (336) 643-0068.

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, siding, dock work, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Sr. disc., 35 years exp. (336) 362-6343. RENOVATION WORKS, INC. New construction, remodeling, additions, kitchen, bath and decks. We are a locally owned, full-service design and build company, A+ accredited with the BBB. Visit www.myrenovationworks.com or call (336) 427-7391 to start your next project.

Your business should be here! Call (336) 644-7035, ext 10 for info.

ERIE INSURANCE – IN KERNERSVILLE Long Insurance Services, (336) 992-5664. SAM’S AUTO BODY SHOP. Any type of body work. 45 years exp. (336) 347-7470.

The Northwest Observer Keeping you connected for 20 years . . . and counting!

MISC. FOR SALE KIRBY AVALIR w/ all attachments, including shampoo system for all surfaces, used twice. Paid $1,000, asking $600. (336) 643-5421.

ROOFING

SEASONED FIREWOOD, delivered and stacked, 1/2 cord, $80. Call (336) 686-6373

A.L. CORMAN ROOFING INC. Res. roofing specialist serving Guilford Cty. area since 1983. BBB 25+ years w/ A+ rating. cormanroofinginc.com, (336) 621-6962.

ALL NEW MATTRESS SETS. Still in plastic, w/ warranty. Twin, $99; Full, $109; Queen, $129; King, $191. Can deliver, layaway available. Mattress Outlet. (336) 992-0025.

FIREWOOD FOR SALE, oak & hickory. Pick up or delivery. (336) 643-9332. SEASONED OAK FIREWOOD, $80/pickup load, delivered & stacked. (336) 253-7615.

MISC. WANTED GOLDEN ANTIQUES & TREASURES in Stokesdale is always seeking vendors who have antiques, vintage, repurposed and collectible items. Booth spaces are 10 x 12 feet and are $200 per month, plus 10% commission. Come check us out and reserve your spot! (336) 949-4958. FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, any and all gas items, tillers, gocarts, ATVs, generators, power washers, grills, chain saws, metal and electrical items, most appliances, etc. (336) 689-4167.

OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE in Oak Ridge. Mini suites available; 100 to 450 sq. ft. For more info, call (336) 643-7577. OAK RIDGE, Class A office space for lease, 8006 Linville Road, 2,990-sq.-foot office suite, includes 5 offices, conference room, two bathrooms, kitchen/break area and filing room. $2,990/mo., serious inquiries only. Please call (336) 643-0555. OAK RIDGE, Class A office space for lease, 8006 Linville Road, 2,990-square-feet office suite, includes 5 offices, conference room, two bathrooms, kitchen/break area and filing room. $2,990/mo., serious inquiries only. Please call (336) 643-0555. Selling or renting? The Northwest Observer reaches EVERY MAILBOX with an Oak Ridge, Summerfield and Stokesdale zip. Advertise it here!

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Gail H. Kerber REALTOR®/BROKER

(336) 327-1165

kerbappeals@gmail.com

$$$ – WILL PAY CASH up to $200 for your junk or wrecked vehicle. (336) 552-0328.

PETS & ANIMAL SVCS.

www.kerbappeals.com

PET SITTING / BOARDING KPS – KELLY’S PET SERVICES Professional in-home pet sitting. Bonded & insured. Member Pet Sitters International. Pet sitting while you are away, daily walks or runs, play, pet taxi, and more! KPS gives a portion of profits to animal charities. Call, email, or Facebook message for a free consultation: (336) 706-6706, kpsforyourpets@ gmail.com, www.facebook.com/kpspets, or kpspets on Instagram.

Found a Pet? Let us know we’ll try to help find the owner.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Roseann Staaf Realtor®/ Broker

allentate.com/RoseannStaaf

(336) 613-7925

...continued on p. 30

FEB. 10 - 16, 2017

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

REAL ESTATE OPEN HOUSE: Sun, Feb 12 • 2-4pm

REAL ESTATE LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

We Help Everyone! SELLERS & BUYERS

(336) 643-4248

www.ANewDawnRealty.com HOMES FOR RENT OAK RIDGE, 3BR, 2BA, office/den, deck, large yard. (336) 644-8710, 708-0522.

The Northwest Observer

7612 Trebbiano Drive, Kernersville Price reduced! This beautiful 3-story home in Arbor Run features 4 spacious bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 2 bonus rooms; one bonus featuring a closet and full bath, plus a lot more! New carpet and paint. Neighborhood tennis and pool. Northwest schools.

Kelli Young

(336) 337-4850 cell (336) 510-1855 office allentate.com/kelliyoung Bobbie Maynard Team

8 Blakeny Place – Irving Park area The finest in maintenance-free living! Light-filled, spacious, open floor plan with 4BR/3BA, plus 2-car garage. Flexible space includes media room. Plantation shutters, cook’s kitchen, heavy moldings and hardwoods. Walk to restaurants, shopping, ball games and work! $517,000

Want to be a part of our next NWO Real Estate section? This monthly section in the Northwest Observer offers a comprehensive overview of what’s happening right now in our local real estate market.

Nancy J. Hess nancy.hess@bhhsyostandlittle.com (336) 215-1820

Bringing your community news

lford t Gui thwes

Nor briefs 14 es tate

home for 20 years!

real

Want to reach our readers? Call (336) 644-7035, or email advertising@nwobserver.com for advertising info. HOMES FOR SALE 5238 Creed Drive, Summerfield

OPEN HOUSE: Sun, Feb 12 • 2-4pm

Custom brick home on 1-acre lot in Trotter Ridge cul-de-sac. Northwest schools. 4 BR, bonus and play room. Luxurious, paneled family room. Renovated kitchen overlooking private lot. Neutral colors throughout. 3,660 sq. ft. $420,000

7649 Crossing Ridge Drive 4BR/4.1BA with finished basement featuring game room and theater room. Beautifully decorated and updated. Community dock and boat slip on Belews Lake. $749,000

Jake Letterman

Bobbie Gardner

(336) 338-0136

CRS/GRI/ EcoBroker Relocation Specialist

(336) 382-5939

8179 Sanfords Creek Drive, Colfax ENERGY STAR HOME ALMOST READY FOR YOU! Enjoy the benefits of this Healthy, Energy-Efficient, Eco-Friendly, Comfortable, 4BR/3.5BA, 3,300+ sq. ft. home. Main Level Master, Northwest Co. Schools and many great features. $439,900

GIL VAUGHAN

Realtor ® /Broker • (336) 337-4780

h 13 See whicsold in your

homes have how much area, and for ord

Realtors, get your real estate listings noticed “ by placing showcase ads in our classifieds. Contact me for more info.” Laura Reneer, associate publisher (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 • advertising@nwobserver.com

FEB. 10 - 16, 2017

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

t Guilf 18 Nortehwes briefs real estat

Reserve your ad space today (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 advertising@nwobserver.com

IT’S HERE

index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

Look for it in your mailbox, available for free pickup at 70+ rack locations and online at nwobserver.com R 2017 stFINDE northwe

ELD MMERFI ION: SU

LEGAL SERVICES

OVID

ERS

Attorney Bill Barbour ..........................25 Law Office of Susan Greeson .............22

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES Piedmont Truck Tires, Inc. ..................15

Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital ................21 Northwest Animal Hospital ...................9 Veterinary Hospital at Oak Ridge.........21

CHURCH

RETAIL

CHILDREN’S SERVICES Guardian Ad Litem Program ..............14

CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES

The Summit Church .............................3

EVENT Town of Summerfield PD Sessions .........6

HEALTH & FITNESS SNAP Fitness ........................................9 YMCA of Greensboro ...........................5

E PR

ERVIC

ITY S

MUN

COM

ESDA

Summerfield Family Chiropractic ..........6

KW Builder by Design ...........................2 TM Construction Services ...................29

endly, ready to manders 77 repair Our fri is cpa. repair & flat es eco ak nts | Tir m m | Br

REAL ESTATE A New Dawn Realty ............................30 Bobbie Gardner, Keller Williams ..........30 Bobbie Maynard, Allen Tate ...............30 Gil Vaughan, Keller Williams ...............30 Jake Letterman, BHHS Yost & Little ...30 KERBAPPEALS – Gail Kerber .............29 Nancy Hess, BHHS Yost & Little .........30 Ramilya Siegel, Allen Tate ....................5 Roseann Staaf, Allen Tate ...................29

BUILDERS

PLETE R CFaORiM ECN27adT, SuEitepeGrts e, N xR YOURCOA Edg) 64C (336 31ex 0 3- am of ffice ble te3606 (336 ea AUTOknowinfole@dg ) 643-u saserve yo 75

PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS

RCES RESOU UNITY M M CO

K N: STO

Bethany Medical Center .......................2 Cone Health / MedCenter High Point .12 LeBauer Healthcare ...........................25 Novant - Northwest Family Medicine ....8

MATIO

By the Book Accounting .....................21 Carlotta Lytton, CPA, PA ....................21 Kimberly Thacker Accounting .............21 Samuel Anders, CPA, MSA, PC .............8

Our 9th annual edition is jam-packed with s valuable info and answer for northwest Guilford County residents

INFOR

ACCOUNTING

FORMAT

Stokesdale Heating & Air.......................4

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en  “Turning 50 is a blast wh you your great friends surprise with a trip to Harborfest in Norfolk, Virginia, to see your favorite rocker!” says Sum n. merﬁeld resident Julie Boehne Pictured L-R : friends Dana Carpenter, Angela Pierotti, Julie “50” Boehnen, Melanie esa Kornegay, Amy Schoppa, Gen d rea Trogdon and Yaneth Comer ore the Northwest Observer bef ge. Rick Springﬁeld takes the sta  The Rider and Bailey families vacationed togeth er in the Bahamas, and of course they took their Northwest Observer. Le ft: Michael and Sarah Bailey, and their son, Eli . Right: Stokesdale reside nts Jimmy and Amy Rider, and their son, Grayson .

, in Liverpool, England  While vacationing k Ridge took his Steve Sharples of Oa r – along with a Northwest Observe blished novel – to  Michael Gray and Sarah Heath of copy of his newly pu Stokesdale took sp, fall afternoon. Observer to the Colos their Northwes seum in Rome, the Pier Head on a cri t Italy.

ver dale took his Northwest Obser  Lawrence Cashen of Stokes e. football gam to an Alabama vs. Texas A&M