Northwest Observer | Feb. 27 - March 5, 2015 by pscommunications

Feb. 27 - March 5, 2015

bringing the local news home to northwest Guilford County since 1996

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Council, fire department debate best way to raise cap on fire tax The town council wants to put a 5-cent increase on the fire tax cap to a vote, while the fire department feels a fire service district overlay is the better option

by GERRI HUNT STOKESDALE – If all goes as a majority of the town council hopes, a 5-cent increase in the fire tax cap will be put to a vote by Stokesdale citizens in November. The fire tax in Stokesdale is currently maxed out at 10 cents per $100 of assessed property value, leaving no wiggle room if the fire department needs extra funds.

On Feb. 12, Councilman Bill Jones was authorized to send a letter on behalf of the town to state legislators requesting the law be changed to allow a 5-cent increase in the tax cap be put to a vote by citizens versus requiring a petition signed by 35 percent of Stokesdale property owners who also live in the district. Either way, Guilford County Commission-

IN THIS ISSUE News in brief........................... 3 Your Questions ....................... 4 Stokesdale Town Council ..... 6 On a mission: Jake Strauss ... 8 High School Sports .............. 10 Student Profiles .....................11 Crime/Incident Report ........ 14 Community Calendar ......... 15 Letters/Opinions .................. 16 Grins & Gripes .......................17 Classifieds ............................ 19 Index of Advertisers ............ 23

...continued on p. 9

Town representatives oppose allowing trucks with twin trailers on N.C. 68 NCDOT considers allowing ‘waggle tails’ on two-lane stretch of N.C. 68, between I-40 and U.S. 220 by PATTI STOKES NW GUILFORD – A letter recently mailed out by an NCDOT traffic safety engineer to affected municipalities in Guilford and Rockingham counties is a cause of great concern for Oak Ridge

A two-lane stretch of N.C. 68, between I-40 and U.S. 220, is being considered for use by trucks with twin trailers.

and Stokesdale town representatives. DOT’s Lisa Avery said the letter, which informed affected municipalities that DOT is considering designating N.C. 68 between I-40 and U.S. 220 in Guilford and Rockingham Counties for use by trucks with twin trailers, was in response to a private citizen’s request. According to Avery, DOT’s next step is to conduct a traffic engineering study on this section of N.C. 68.

...continued on p. 18

For DOT to designate that stretch of N.C. 68 for trucks with twin trailers is dangerous and irresponsible” Oak Ridge Town Councilman Spencer Sullivan

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NEWS in brief A+ Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

Due to snow, ice and belowfreezing temperatures, road construction on the U.S. 220/N.C. 68 Connector (future I-73) project is at a standstill at this location along N.C. 150 in Summerﬁeld near where an I-73 interchange will be constructed.

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Unpaid water bills could lead to property seizure STOKESDALE – Water system users with delinquent accounts may face having their property seized as a result of the Stokesdale Town Council unanimously voting to clarify its Water Fees Collection Policy on Feb. 12.

“We want the users of the water system to understand it is serious business, and their personal property is at risk if the court orders them to pay and they don’t, or they start and they stop,” said Trevorrow.

If a customer has unpaid water usage or water service accessibility fees, the town can obtain a court order or judgment; if the outstanding bill is still not paid, the town is now clearly authorized to seize the customer’s personal and real property (Wikipedia defines personal property as movable items and real property as immovable items such as land and buildings).

“Mr. Walker [S. Brian Walker, the attorney under contract with the town to collect on delinquent accounts] wants to make sure he’s fully supported by the council when he starts going out seizing property when it’s necessary. That could get a little ugly.”

“This is just to clarify the town is serious about collecting these fees,” said William Trevorrow, Stokesdale’s town attorney. “That kind of message is starting to filter into the community, that the town, in an effort to collect the outstanding and uncollected water fees, will use whatever lawful means it has available to it – which includes sending the sheriff out there to seize property, if that’s what it takes.”

“I don’t like it, it stinks. I hate to drag up old bones, but it should have never gotten to this point,” said Mayor Randy Braswell.

Trevorrow said the “notion” of seizure is in the existing policy, but not clearly stated.

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Councilman Bill Jones verified the town is obligated to collect all money owed to the town, and Trevorrow agreed.

In July 2012, the town authorized attorney Lonnie Albright to pursue the

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

challenges. Gerald Greeson, GCS director of maintenance, said his department is responsible for clearing snow from school campuses. There is no priority of which schools to clear first, and his crews tackle the district by area.

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online: nwobserver.com e-mail: questions@nwobserver.com What is the thought process behind Guilford County Schools and NCDOT’s approach to clearing snow? It’s frustrating to see the schools not shoveled or parking lots plowed. Is it a financial decision? Why can’t DOT plow the secondary roads as well? According to N.C. Department of Transportation’s website, ncdot.gov, there is a priority policy for snow removal on roads based on connectivity, traffic volume, trucking routes and major business avenues, and hospital and emergency routes. DOT’s website states, “The goal for primary routes is to get them to a ‘bare pavement’ status, leaving no significant ice or snow that could impede the smooth movement of traffic on interstates, four-lane divided highways, or arterial routes essential to movement in and out of major business centers.

the snow plows and motor graders would not cut the ice off the roadway. The crews were sent home to rest while standby personnel remained at the maintenance offices overnight to respond to emergency calls. DOT crews were back out on Feb. 18 to clear isolated spots of black ice on interstates and major primary roads before clearing the secondary roads in anticipation of extreme overnight temperatures. Guilford County Schools had similar

WING NRO OLL

“Roads that don’t have as much traffic – such as lower-volume streets and neighborhoods – receive treatment after the primary routes are handled. While we try to get all routes treated and cleared as much as possible, we focus our efforts on the primary routes, because these roads may still have some ice or snow on them after we’ve attended to them,” DOT explains. On Tuesday, Feb. 17, a day after a snowstorm blanketed the area, DOT cleared interstates and major primary roads first, then began plowing secondary roads until it got so cold that

FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

“We get everybody who can drive a truck to help,” said Greeson. He said getting started in the mornings is often difficult because the surface of the snow is so hard. Once the surface is wet they will work as long as it stays slushy – which was 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 17. John Simmons, program administrator for GCS maintenance, who was heading up snow removal at northwestarea schools, said 45 percent of the schools had been “cleaned out” by Wednesday afternoon, and he expected 65 to 75 percent to be done by the time they had to stop that night. “We tried to get everything cleaned and scraped, but once it gets so cold at night, the snow plows just slip across the ice,” Simmons said.

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STOKESDALE town council

Feb. 12 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by GERRI HUNT  Mayor Randy Braswell called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. Randy Southard, deputy chief with Stokesdale Fire Department, led the opening prayer, which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda was unanimously adopted after adding two items, as were minutes from the April 10 and May 8, 2014 council meetings, May 5 special meeting; and the April 4, 11 and 22, 2014 workshops.

NEW BUSINESS Deputy’s report. Dep. Scott Casey said 10 reports were generated from the calls received in the last month. Regarding items being stolen from an unlocked truck in the parking lot of Stokesdale Heating & Air, Casey said the theft may

involve someone known by the company. A radar speed trailer was set up on Daltonshire Drive and there is a request to place it on Haw River Road. Defibrillators. Randy Southard suggested the town consider purchasing a semi-automated defibrillator (a device that sends an electric current to someone having an irregular heart rhythm) to have at Town Hall and/or the town park. Southard said he has also reached out to churches in the fire district, and could facilitate a bulk purchase of the devices and offer training at the fire station. He estimated a cost of $1,200 each, but possibly less if purchased in bulk. Braswell expressed concern about children having access to the devices

and shocking others, to which Southard responded that they were frequently used at public places. “Not to say it couldn’t be [played with] … you push a green button and it’s live,” said Southard. “But even if somebody was going to pull a prank, it won’t [shock] unless it detects a rhythm irregularity.” Town attorney William Trevorrow said benefits could outweigh the liability risk of having a defibrillator in the town park and suggested labeling the device “emergency use only.” From the audience, Stokesdale resident Nancy McCoy said it might be negligent if the town did not have a defibrillator. Braswell said the device could be mounted in the concession stand or in one of the restrooms at the park, and the council agreed to give the matter more consideration.

 5  0 to renew the Deer Urban

Archery Season for next year (Jan. 9 to Feb. 13, 2016).

 5  0 to reimburse expenses for

council members to attend the N.C. League of Municipalities Town Hall Day in Raleigh on March 18.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS  3  2 to send a letter, drafted by

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FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

Councilman Bill Jones, to state legislators requesting a change in state law to allow the cap on Stokesdale’s fire district tax to be increased from 10 cents to 15 cents (per $100 property valuation); with permission from the Guilford County commissioners, the issue would then be added to the November 2015 ballot. Council members Vicki White-Lawrence and Joe Thacker voted against the motion (see story on front cover). Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Councilman Frank Bruno briefed the council on the annual Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail meeting he attended Feb. 7. His goal is to publicize the benefits of the trail coming through Stokesdale, and to find volunteers to help maintain it (for more on this discussion, see News Brief

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

in our Feb. 20-26 issue). Facility Use Agreement. Council approved additional dates for Stokesdale Community Choir to use the community room at Town Hall. The senior adult choir will present a patriotic musical on May 24 at 5 p.m. at an undetermined location. Hazard Mitigation Plan. Town clerk Carolyn Joyner announced an online kick-off meeting on March 10 for the Guilford County Hazard Mitigation Plan. Stokesdale participates in the plan’s resource support team. Community Day. Stokesdale Community Day will be held May 2 (rain date May 9). Bruno is organizing a committee for the event, and suggested that tables be set up for crafts and gifts to be sold; Woodmen of the World will offer free hot dogs. Stokesdale water system. Braswell reminded everyone the March water bills will include a new rate of $5.30 (up from $3) per 1,000 gallons used. Joyner said she will separate the monthly access fee from water usage charges on customer bills. Credit card payments. After discussion, council authorized Joyner to work with Atlantic Merchant Services on a system to accept credit card payments over the phone or in person at Town Hall. The no-contract agreement with the company will include a $10 monthly fee for the town’s account, a 29-cent fee per transaction, and a 3.5-percent fee for payments submitted online (or 2.75 percent if the card is swiped through a $125 credit card terminal). The system will be set up on a six-month trial basis, and credit card users will be notified of a 4-percent administration fee. Water system. Braswell said the town may want to replace several commercial meters instead of converting them to electronic meters. Some fairly new residential meters, like one just installed on Prince Edward Road, could be converted. Council member Vicki WhiteLawrence said a comparison of replacing vs. converting the meters would be helpful, and a workshop to discuss this was set for Feb. 20.

Braswell expressed concern about a Marshall Woods homeowner who filled in a side ditch, and a neighboring house under construction which has a concrete culvert pipe laid on top of the town’s water service line. “So if there’s ever a problem with that service line, the Town of Stokesdale will have to dig up that man’s driveway to get to the line,” said Braswell. “We need a trigger point so Town Hall knows when construction is going on, and Gene Robertson (of Yates Construction), and Charlie McGougan (of the civil engineering firm Marziano & McGougan) are watching; right now there’s nothing in their checks and balances that catches a driveway culvert going over a service line.” Braswell suggested requesting Guilford County notify the town of building permits issued for property within the town limits; if that construction is located within the municipal water system infrastructure, someone from the town would then take a look at the site. “I guess it’s one of the pains of a council-mayor form of government. We don’t have a town manager who might be riding around looking for that stuff. We just stumble across it,” he said.

 5  0 to approve engineering

plans and specifications for water lines in Dawn Acres subdivision on Haw River Road, to authorize the mayor to sign the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources application, and to approve an encroachment agreement with developer Combs Inc. and DOT. Braswell said Yates Construction should be compensated for reviewing the project’s specifications for the town, and he is anxious for Robertson to attend a town water workshop to offer input. Joyner said Robertson had pointed out that although something might be included in a project’s specs, there were no follow-up procedures in place to make sure it was done. Referencing a housing development under construction in the town, Braswell said it was unacceptable that there were meter boxes underwater in a ditch and

they must be moved.

 5  0 to revise the Water Fees

Collection Policy to include text stating that the town may resort to seizure of personal and real property if customers do not pay delinquent water accounts.

REPORTS Library Committee. Bruno, who heads up the committee, said he has supplies to finish making library cards. He thanked Stokesdale residents Tom and Nancy McCoy for their help in organizing the library. Town Park. Bruno said the track and soccer fields are in better shape, but a lot needs to be done elsewhere in the park; he suggested the council consider adding swings, mulch and benches, removing the volleyball court border and addressing the sand on the court that has rocks in it. Budget Committee. A meeting to begin discussion of the FY 2015-16 budget was set for Tuesday, March 3, 4 p.m. at Town Hall. Appointment. Council approved Jim Greene as an alternate member of the Planning and Zoning Board. Braswell thanked Greene for arranging a meeting between Allen Hart of the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture and town council on Feb. 11 to discuss grants and low-interest loans for expanding the Stokesdale water system. League of Municipalities. Bruno participated in a video conference on Feb. 12 and learned there is a $270 million shortfall in the state’s general fund; also, the N.C. Senate is considering decreasing the state’s cap on its variable gas tax (adjusted twice per year) from 37.5 to 35 cents, he said.

Regarding the water system, Braswell said he wanted to “go back and pay for every drop (of water) we ever used … because it’s not fair for the nearly 400 water customers to foot the bill for the town’s water use.” After council agreed to open a water account in the town’s name and to start receiving a monthly water bill, Joyner said a budget amendment would be needed to pay the bill.

 5  0 to approve a budget

amendment in the amount of $1,000 to cover the town’s water accessibility and usage fees for six months.

ANNOUNCEMENTS  Two Planning Board members will rotate off the board in March; applications for the two positions can be picked up at Town Hall or downloaded from the town website at stokesdale.org.  A monthly 30-minute program on 1420 WMYN featuring Mayor Braswell and guests will air at 11 a.m. on March 4. Programs are archived at RockinghamCountyRadio.com.

 The Parade Committee was slated to meet Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. but that meeting was cancelled due to the weather.  The Planning Board will meet March 5 at 7 p.m. (Note: effective immediately, these meetings begin at 7 p.m. instead of 7:30 p.m.)  The Greensboro Urban Area 2040 Long-Range Transportation Plan Draft Project List is available for public view and comment until March 2 at Town Hall and at www.guampo.org.  The Guilford County Hazardous Mitigation Plan is being updated, and citizen input is needed. The plan and a survey can be found online at www. readyguilford.org/mitigation.

COUNCIL COMMENTS  Bruno said the Piedmont Triad Regional Council would meet Feb. 18.  Braswell thanked Jones for fixing Town Hall’s ice maker, and for his hard work on the letter to legislators regarding raising the fire district’s tax cap. The meeting adjourned at 10:26 p.m.

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FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

On a mission:

Jake Strauss, 26.2 miles for Guatemala Jake Strauss, a senior at Northwest High School, is headed to Cary on March 15. There, he will participate in the Tobacco Road Marathon to raise money for Villa Canales, a Guatemalan town he visited during a mission trip. The 18-year-old made the journey to Villa Canales last summer with VisionTrust, a non-profit organization whose mission is to develop orphaned and neglected children into mature Christians equipped to live in their own culture. Strauss spent a majority of the mission trip in Cruz Blanca, a community VisionTrust has been involved with for several years.

“Though the race will be a great test of endurance, it is nothing compared to what the children of Villa Canales have to live with every day. I am wholeheartedly excited to run in my first marathon.”

A few months after returning home from Guatemala, Strauss decided to run the Tobacco Road Marathon and simultaneously raise funds for Villa Canales.

As of Feb. 24, Strauss had raised $1,112 toward his $2,000 goal. To read his blog or to help him raise funds for a learning center in Guatemala by making a donation, visit blog.visiontrust.org/racing-for-joy.

“With enough support, my marathon fundraising efforts should help to improve the lives of the impoverished in Guatemala,” said Strauss. “The money raised will be used to pay the teachers of Villa Canales’ learning center, and will contribute to a lasting and critical education for the children who live there.

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Photo courtesy of Jake Strauss

Northwest High School senior Jake Strauss is an avid runner; shown here, Srauss is running in a cross country race. He will run his ﬁrst marathon, the Tobacco Road Marathon, on March 15 to raise money for a children’s learning center in a Guatemalan community.

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“Though our stay there was brief, the state of the area and its people touched me,” said Strauss. “Upon leaving, I felt the calling to help the children that we met in Villa Canales.

“I met some of the friendliest people there, and the Guatemalan culture is very welcoming and hospitable,” Strauss continued. “Unfortunately, many of the people living there, particularly in areas like Villa Canales, live in extremely poor conditions.”

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FIRE TAX

...continued from p. 1 ers would have the final say in whether increasing the fire tax cap would be placed on the ballot. As evidenced by the council’s 3-2 vote, however, council members differed over whether they felt the letter should be sent; Mayor Randy Braswell and council members Jones and Frank Bruno voted in favor, while council members Joe Thacker and Vicki White-Lawrence said they wanted more time and information before making a decision. “I thought when we decided to go with this letter that the fire department and the town were working together, and it’s not that way right now. I’d feel better if this was more collaborative,” said White-Lawrence. “I agree. I would like to send a very strong signal to the community that we’re all on the same page,” said Braswell. “The bottom line is funding our fire department.” Stokesdale Fire Chief Todd Gauldin and Deputy Chief Randy Southard, who attended the Feb. 12 council meeting, acknowleged the fire department and the town council have the same goal – which is to provide the best service possible to people in the fire district. “We all agree on the core value – making sure the people stay safe,” said Southard. “We just can’t wrap our heads around the way to fund it.”

a fire service district overlay that would increase the fire tax cap to what they believed would be 25 cents. The council denied it by a 3-2 vote, with Braswell, Bruno and Jones voting against it. Stokesdale and Kimesville were the only two fire districts in Guilford County to not approve the fire service district overlay. Stokesdale Fire Department’s board of directors still feels a fire service district overlay is the way to go. “There’s no need to create another layer of decision-making,” Southard said. “Guilford County will have the ultimate decision-making power anyway (all fire tax increases must be approved by the county commissioners).” As to his vote in 2012, and his vote at the Feb. 12 council meeting, Braswell said, “I’ve said it over and over, it’s not about the fire department, and it’s not about the money. It’s about the fact that the general statute since 1959 says the people get to vote. Two years ago, when [the fire service district overlay] was presented, I asked everybody, and everybody wanted to vote. I feel like I was doing what the citizens were saying.” But Gauldin feels the citizens already spoke when the town council held public hearings on the overlay. “They were given the opportunity to voice their opinion and nobody showed up. They trusted the process,” he said, also noting that citizens have the opportunity to vote on the 12 members of the fire department’s board of directors.

Stokesdale Fire Department, which incorporated in 1954, increased its fire tax from 7.73 cents to 10 cents per $100 of assessed property value in 2013 – but that’s as high as it can go. According to state statute, fire departments incorporated before 1959 can tax residents in their districts a maximum of 10 cents.

“We feel like the citizens have voted multiple times,” he said. “[The town council] doesn’t see it as a voice of the people.”

Three years ago, the department approached the town council, seeking

“We are a private corporation that the county and town contracts with for

Gauldin also said there may be a question of legality with regard to the town requesting the fire tax cap be put to a vote without the fire department’s board of directors’ support.

the fire district,” he said. It’s taken the department over 60 years to reach its 10-cent cap, and even if the cap on the fire tax is increased, it doesn’t mean the department will be raising the fire tax again anytime soon, the fire chief said. The potential to increase the tax would simply be a resource for long-range funding. “Forecasting the future is tough,” said Gauldin, adding that as Stokesdale continues to grow, so will its tax base, and that should sustain the fire department for a while. “But with growth, there are more needs for service. Calls increase, fire alarms increase, accidents increase, and the cost of truck maintenance and fuel increase.” Gauldin also pointed out that just like in neighboring communities – and throughout the nation – a decline in volunteer firefighters has necessitated Stokesdale adding more paid staff

members. The department presently has 32 volunteers and 10 career firefighters, five part-timers who combine into one position each week, and a part-time administrative assistant. The 20-year-old station receives maintenance upgrades each year. If the 5-cent increase on the fire tax cap makes it onto the ballot but citizens vote it down, it will be two more years before it can be placed back on the ballot. “If they vote no, then we live with 10 cents, or you (the fire department) create that fire service district, and these two boards will have to come together,” Braswell told Gauldin and Southard on Feb. 12. “But it’s going to pass at the polls, because I’m a good campaigner … I’m totally against going around the voters. If they don’t get to vote on how to spend their money, then this whole system is really fouled up. “We’re going to move ahead, and pray you get on board,” the mayor said.

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FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

High school sports roundup by L.A. LOGAN The Northwest Guilford Vikings’ women’s swim team finished 12th overall and the men finished 31st at the 2015 4A NCHSAA State Swimming and Diving Championships on Feb. 13 and 14 at Holly Springs High School. Heather Sigmon, a Northwest swimmer, placed second for the Vikings in the women’s 100-yard backstroke at the championships. Corinne Martin, Sigmon’s teammate, finished third in the women’s 200-yard freestyle and placed fifth in the 100-yard butterfly. At the 3A NCHSAA State Swimming and Diving Championships held on Feb. 12 at Cardinal Gibbons High School, Northern Guilford’s women finished 10th overall and the men finished fifth overall. Northern swimmer Jordan Reed won the men’s 100-yard butterfly championship. Reed then swam for third place in the men’s 100-yard backstroke, and Luke Humphrey followed with a fourthplace finish. Humphrey also placed fourth in the men’s 100-yard backstroke and sixth in the men’s 200-yard individual medley.

Northern’s men’s 200-yard medley relay team earned team points by placing second and the women’s 200-yard medley relay team came in fifth place at the state meet. Two Northern divers enjoyed top ten finishes: Louise Farrell finished 10th in the women’s 1-meter diving, and John Clark Ouzts finished sixth in the men’s 1-meter diving. Northern’s women’s 400-yard freestyle relay team finished eighth, and the men finished sixth in the men’s 400yard freestyle relay, capping off a good day for Northern’s head varsity coach, Richard Swor. On Feb. 14, NCHSAA held the 2015 state 3A and 4A indoor track championships at the JDL Fast Track. Northwest indoor track and field runner Matt Bomkamp brought home some hardware with a third-place finish in the 1000 meters with a time of 2:33.45, and Payton Stull finished in 17th place in the shot put with a distance of 40’ 10”. In the 3A division, Northern’s women’s 4x800 meters relay team (Emily Mercer, Amber Gale, Karenna Smith,

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McKenzie Byrd) broke a school record with a performance of 10:27.47 and an eighth-place finish. Northern’s men’s 4x400 meters relay team finished out the day with a 6th place finish. Northern’s David Melville, the school’s fastest freshman, nearly broke the school record in the 1600 meters; he ran 4:38.93 and qualified for New Balance Nationals. Melville was the only freshman in the 3200 meters and finished 20th with 10:23.12. After strong performances at the 2015 NCHSAA Regional Championships at Northwest on Feb.13-14, Vikings’ wrestlers Josh Hedrick, David Bobeck, Austin Jamison, Tristan Dean, Austin Comeford, Rowdy Harman and Cary Miller competed at the 2015 NCHSAA State Wrestling Championships at the Greensboro Coliseum on Feb. 19-21. Bobeck was crowned the 120 lbs. state champion, and Miller won the 220 lbs. state championship. Also, three Northern wrestlers – Alex Roberts, Wilson Reece and Austin Smith – qualified for the 3A wrestling state championships After conference tournaments were canceled, the 2015 NCHSAA State Basketball Championship brackets were released on Saturday, Feb. 21. In the 4A division, Northwest’s boys varsity basketball received the No. 11 seed and were scheduled to host No. 22 seed Ragsdale in the first round of the

playoffs on Tuesday, Feb. 24 (this game was postponed because of inclement weather). The Vikings won the last meeting 75-58 on Jan. 30 and hold a three-game winning streak over the Tigers. Northwest’s girls varsity basketball team, which was undefeated in the regular season, is seeded No. 1 in the 4A division and will face No. 31 seed TC Roberson (Asheville, NC) in the first round of the playoffs. In the team’s only contest in 2009, the Vikings edged the Rams 42-40. In the boy’s 3A division, No. 11 seed Northern will play No. 22 seed Fike when the playoffs get underway (initially scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 24, but postponed due to inclement weather). After winning the regular season conference championship, the Northern Guilford girls varsity basketball team was seeded No. 8; they will face No. 25 Jesse Carson at home in the first round of playoffs.

BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS The first round of playoff games was initially scheduled on Feb. 24, but re-scheduled for Feb. 25 because of inclement weather; as we went to press, more inclement weather was forecast for the evening of Feb. 25, resulting in those games being once again postponed. Check out Facebook.com/ NorthwestObserver to find out when the playoffs get underway, and for game photos and scores.

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NEWS in brief

...continued from p. 3

collection of water service debts after having to redirect $56,600 from savings to balance the $277,200 water enterprise budget for the 2012-2013 fiscal year. Albright sent letters to residents with outstanding water balances, and spoke to some who called him to talk about the fees. The attorney told the town

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council at the time that most of those people shared with him that attorney’s letters in the past carried empty threats. “They have learned that the town is bark but no bite,” he said, and recommended a general statute that institutes a lien against properties as a means to collect.

School days, snow days, school days … and more snow days After Guilford County Schools released students early on Monday, Feb. 16, due to inclement weather, schools remained closed to students for the rest of the week.

when we’re doing report cards or monitoring data,” explained Donaldson. “But we’re resilient, and we’ll recover. And it’s most important that we compensate for instructional loss with children.”

Summerfield Elementary 3rd grade math teachers Kenya Donaldson and Dana Carpenter were among the many teachers who used their optional teacher workdays to work on lesson plans.

After another snowstorm caught the area by surprise in the early morning hours of Tuesday, Feb. 24, Guilford County Schools were closed again for the day. Students returned to school Wednesday, Feb. 25, on a two-hour delay, but just as they were getting back into the swing of things, weather forecasters were predicting yet another snowstorm would bring 4 to 8 inches of snow to Guilford County in the early evening hours.

“We’re mapping out our lessons for next week, just seeing how we’re going to recover from our snow days,” said Donaldson on Feb. 20. “When you’re planning for recovery, you need to make sure you’re not skipping anything critical, and that the students are getting everything they need before we measure their growth.” “The time those [optional teacher workdays] are planned are around times

So far, school make-up days for inclement weather are scheduled on Friday, Feb. 27, Friday, April 10, Friday, June 12, and Monday and Tuesday, June 15 and 16.

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

NORTHWEST

Swimming ROYCE LE, junior

Hometown: Lindenhurst, Illinois Toughest class: AP Physics Extracurricular activities: Church league basketball College plans: Stanford University Most admired athlete: Daniel Le Favorite athletic team: Chicago Bears Favorite food: Crawfish Favorite musician: Taylor Swift Favorite movie: “Interstellar”

Any siblings? Older brother, Daniel Best vacation ever: Long Beach, California Years in the NWHS area: Four Dream job: Orthodontist Something not everyone knows about me: “I have an underbite.” Nickname: “Rolls-Royce” Role on the team: Co-captain / breast stroke Pre-meet ritual: Pray Coach Czamille Chrisp on Royce Le: “Royce is a go-getter. He values the advice given from his family and coaches. Royce is driven and determined to be the best he can be.”

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Kenya Donaldson (left) and Dana Carpenter spend the optional teacher workday on Feb. 20 mapping out upcoming lessons for their third-grade math students at Summerﬁeld Elementary.

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his car, the interior caught fire, causing significant damage to the 2014 Hyundai Elantra. The Guilford County fire marshal is investigating the cause of the fire.

FRAUD Feb. 19 | A resident of Oak Ridge Road reported that she left her vehicle in the parking lot of a local repair shop after hours to have some work done. She was later contacted by someone she knows, who said he works part-time at the repair shop and offered to fix her vehicle “on the side” for less than what the shop would charge. The victim gave him the keys and $100 as a down payment. She has not seen nor heard from him since, and her vehicle is still parked at the auto repair shop. Feb. 21 | A resident of Meadow Pond Court in Summerfield reported that someone used the victim’s credit card information to make unauthorized purchases at several businesses in Greensboro. Employees at one of the businesses recognized the suspect and provided a possible name for him; investigators are working to confirm his identity.

THEFT Feb. 17 | Triad Mulch Supply on E. Mountain Street in Kernersville reported that someone stole two unsecured pallet forks that attach to a Bobcat loader, valued at $700. Feb. 21 | Lowes Food on N. Church Street in northern Greensboro reported that between 5:40 and 5:45 p.m., two white males were captured on video leaving the store with items that were not purchased. They stole $17 worth of boneless center pork chops, $99 worth of boneless Angus strips, $2 worth of Little Debbie chocolate snack cakes, $8 worth of cinnamon rolls, and a $22 Arm & Hammer Spinbrush ProClean battery-powered toothbrush.

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 Garden Club Meeting| Oak Ridge Garden Club will meet March 3 at 7 p.m. For meeting location, email cherylgmitchell@roadrunner.com or call (336) 298-4886. Committee will meet on March 3 at 4 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Hall to begin planning the FY 2015-16 budget. More info: (336) 643-4011.

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We give a percentage of profits to animal charities Member, Pet Sitters International • Insured & Bonded by Kennel Pro

THURSDAY, MARCH 5

 Town Council | Oak Ridge Town Council will meet March 5 at 7 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall on Linville Road. SUNDAY, MARCH 8

compassionate

“Compassionate, Comprehensive State-of-the-art Care”

“Compassionate,

Comprehensive Comprehensive  Cooking Competition | A chili cook-off and wings State-of-the-art Care” State-of-the-art Care”

personal

competition, and a baked goods auction, will be Karen Nasisse, DVM Karen Nasisse, DVM modern held on March 8 at Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, animal medicine 2640 Oak Ridge Road. Chili and wings entries are $10 each. The community is invited to compete “Compassionate, or join “Compassionate, Karen Nasisse, DVM • Elisabeth Carlson, DVM “Compassionate, Comprehensive Comprehensive Comprehensive (336) 643-8984 usCare” for dinner – $5/person, $15 pro-Care” State-of-the-art State-of-the-art Care” max per family. All State-of-the-art 1692-J NC Hwy 68 N, Oak Ridge ceeds benefit ORPC youth mission and summer camp Karen Nasisse, DVM Karen Nasisse, DVM Karen Nasisse, DVM northwestanimalhospitalnc.com trips. More info: (336) 643-3452. Karen Nasisse, DVM Ph 336-643-8984 Fax 336-643-8987

Ph 336-643-8984 Fax 336-643-8987

1692 NC 68N, Suite J, 27310

Ph 336-643-8984

Fax 336-643-8987 1692 NC 68N, Suite J, 27310

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

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

FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

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LETTERS/OPINIONS Submit your opinions (maximum 350 words) online: nwobserver.com mail: Opinions,

e-mail: editor@nwobserver.com

PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310

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

Lack of green arrow makes no sense I can’t understand how, with the development of technology and computer systems, that from 7 to 8 a.m. and between 5 to 6 p.m., there can’t be a green (protected) arrow for southbound drivers on N.C. 68 turning left onto U.S. 158. NCDOT recently installed a left turn arrow at this intersection, but that arrow is never green. The flashing yellow

few seconds, to allow for a safe left turn onto U.S. 158. I understand how traffic would not warrant it at other times, and I understand there’s a cost involved, but it is dangerous and I can’t be the only one who feels this way. When this concern was recently presented to NCDOT, their response was understandable and appreciated, but driving it every day makes me come to

a different conclusion than their study. I don’t want to see a T-boned van before this is rectified. Why even put the (yellow) arrow there in the first place if they won’t green light it? Little is different than before they installed the new light. Why incur that cost if they are going to leave everything status quo? That makes no sense from a budgetary perspective. Scott Herrick, STOKESDALE

Refs well-prepared to ofﬁciate

arrow, coupled with northbound traffic at a continuous pace, makes dropping off kids in the morning at Stokesdale Elementary a fairly heart-pumping drive. Unless you want to sit through two lights (sometimes three), the failure of that arrow to ever turn green makes parents take a risk whenever they see a window to actually make that turn. That arrow needs to be green at times, even for a

In response to the parent disrespecting all JV basketball officials (Grins and Gripes, Northwest Observer, Feb. 20-26, 2015 issue), all high school basketball officials are required to attend six twohour rules clinics each season and one state clinic. There are two or three rule books that we have to read and take a 100-question exam to receive a passing grade – each season. We are also required to do two or

three scrimmages each season for free. Many high school officials also work at recreation games in order to keep their skills honed. Most are not trying to get to the NBA – but then again, most of these players are not going to get there either. Ed Lolley, SUMMERFIELD The writer has officiated junior varsity, varsity and recreational league basketball games for the past 14 years.

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

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

www.attorneybillbarbour.com

FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

The U.S. Advisory Panel on Dietary Guidelines has finally mustered the courage to recommend that Americans eat less meat and dairy products. And not just to lower our risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes and obesity, but also because it slows the rate of climate change, with its own devastating consequences. The 572-page report released last Thursday notes that half of all Americans have preventable diet-related chronic diseases and that two-thirds of adults and one-third of children are overweight. It concludes that a dietary pattern higher in plant-based foods and lower in animal-based foods is more health-promoting and associated with lesser environmental impact than

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

the current U.S. diet. The 1977 recommendation by the Senate Select Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs that Americans eat less meat was quashed by the meat industry, and subsequent dietary guidelines panels have been very cautious. The 2010 dietary guidelines panel merely shoved meat and dairy off the official MyPlate icon, representing the U.S. Dietary Guidelines. Though the experts have now told the truth, our family’s health is still up to us. Fortunately, local supermarkets offer a variety of meat- and dairy-free options and the Internet has lots of advice on vegan recipes and transition tips. Onovek Nuncheck, OAK RIDGE

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

roadsides of Summerfield Road. Thanks also to Jay from Summerfield Farms for taking away the trash. Great examples of giving selflessly to their community!

Share your thoughts in

 Boy Scout Troop 160 for planting 17 flagpoles and hoisting U.S. flags along the parkway leading to the Carolina Field of Honor at Triad Park. The Stars and Stripes never waved more majestically.

40 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...  The fellow in the white Dodge Ram with the plow for swinging in and helping us scrape the parking lot at the fire station. We greatly appreciate it!  Alex Benedict at Beacon Suites for doing such a great job on our two Persian cats. No other groomer was ever able to finish cutting King Louie’s fur before. They both look wonderful!  Our neighbor, Steve Shelton, who not only cleaned our street after the snow/ ice mix but also our driveway.  Jennifer and Emma for cleaning the

 All the state and local employees who went beyond the call of duty to make sure our roads were accessible and safe – you rock!  Oak Ridge Town Council member George McClellan for proposing the council’s recent resolution to support the reinstatement of historic preservation tax credits in North Carolina.

son, for coming the same day we called – on the coldest day of the year!  Those of you who move over and/or wave when I’m out running on Beeson, Bunker Hill, Marshall-Smith, Stafford Mill, Williard, and Benbow Merrill roads on Saturday mornings. Feels like old friends!  NWO for trying to find answer for the sidewalk to nowhere. Hopefully people will realize extending it will increase property values. HOA/town – make the sidewalk a safe stroll to the store or a neighbor rather than a forgotten dead end. The writer is referring to the sidewalk that runs along Haw River Road, behind Kings Crossing Shopping Center in Stokesdale, and comes to an end at the property line the shopping center shares with Arbor Run.

GRIPES to...  The parents and kids who think it’s okay to sled and snowboard in our backyard without seeking permission. Can I show up in your yard unannounced in the spring to practice my golf swing?  To Lowes Foods. Why not offer a percent off of as much fruit and vegetables (rather than meat) as you can fit in a bag? No wonder we have a fat, unhealthy society.  The driver of the white Dodge truck traveling north on N.C. 68 toward Stokesdale on Feb. 20. Life is too short for road rage! I hope life teaches you a lesson on being polite, patient and kind to others.

 NWHS AP World History teacher Elizabeth Russell for demanding the effort and excellence from students that results in real learning. You are a model of what is best in our schools!  All of our safe drivers who obey the speed limit and drive with two hands on the wheel (and not one holding a phone). Thank you for setting an example for our young drivers. Save a life!  Wilson Pumping of Stokesdale. Our septic tank started acting up and we needed it pumped out. Thank you, Wil-

Don't pay extra for special classes at preschool! At Nan's Preschool for the Arts, dance, karate, art and music are included. 1941 New Garden Road Greensboro (336) 288-6141

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Here, you’ll find more than just medical expertise. You’ll find compassionate care offered by people you know – your own neighbors, friends and maybe even family. We care about our community and, most of all, we care about you.

1510 North NC Hwy 68 | 336 644 0111 | eaglemds.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

TWIN TRAILERS

DOT as a designated route, twin trailers, which can each be up to 28 feet long, are prohibited from traveling on state highways in North Carolina.

...continued from p. 1 “If the Department designates this route for use by these vehicles, public hearings, or the opportunity for such, will be provided in each of the affected counties,” she said. “We’re at the very early stages of the process right now.”

And there’s a reason for that, Oak Ridge and Stokesdale town representatives are arguing.

In adherence with the Surface Transportation Act of 1982, North Carolina General Statutes 20-115.1 authorizes “twin trailers” to travel on the National Twin Trailer System, which consists of the interstate highways and other highways designated by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation. Unless specifically authorized by NC-

“For DOT to designate that stretch of N.C. 68 for trucks with twin trailers is dangerous and irresponsible,” said Oak Ridge Town Councilman Spencer Sullivan. “For the past seven years my wife and I have traveled, and I have come to have the utmost respect for truck drivers – they are, for the most part, safe and courteous. I’ve also learned a lot about how to handle driving my motor home by observing them.”

CON EE CER T

The

Sea Chanters

With all their skills, drivers of trucks hauling twin trailers have an especially difficult job, Spencer said.

the I-40 to 220 connector is completed in 2017 and place safety above all else – I think Jay’s family would agree.”

“Even the most routine of steering adjustments will cause that rear trailer to move. And if the driver has to make a more abrupt correction, that will exaggerate that movement to where it (the rear trailer) will move even further,” he said. “There is a reason they call them ‘waggle tails’ – because they can move with even the slightest provocation.”

Sullivan also doesn’t understand why, with the N.C. 68/U.S. 220 Connector (I73) on schedule to open to traffic in early 2017, DOT would even consider allowing twin trailers on N.C. 68 right now.

Sullivan noted the challenges for drivers of twin trailers are great enough on interstates, which affords other drivers the opportunity to move and avoid contact if a rear trailer crosses the center line. “But when you put that on a twolane highway like N.C. 68 that has no shoulders, a high volume of traffic and an already high accident rate … with opposing traffic, there is no place for a truck or oncoming car to go. Steve Bowie of Stokesdale agrees with Sullivan wholeheartedly. “Eight months ago my next door neighbor and good friend, Jay, was killed in an automobile accident on N.C. 68 between Oak Ridge and Stokesdale,” Bowie said. “The accident involved a large truck. Jay left behind a pregnant wife and a 9-year old daughter. And now NCDOT wants to put more large trucks on N.C. 68, a two-lane road that is already overcrowded and unsafe? Why not wait until

are coming t o

Wednesday, March 11 | 7:30pm

Oak Ridge Military Academy’s Bonner Field House

make your voice heard Public comment periods for citizen input on NCDOT’s consideration of allowing trucks with twin trailers on N.C. 68 will be on the Oak Ridge Town Council’s March 5 and Stokesdale Town Council’s March 12 meeting agendas. Citizens are also asked to send their opinions in writing to NCDOT’s Lisa Avery at lavery@ncdot.gov, and copy boakley@oakridgenc.com and/or Stokesdale@stokesdale.org. For more info, call Oak Ridge Town Hall at (336) 644-7009 or Stokesdale Town Hall at (336) 643-4011.

for more information.

· Full Service Pest Control

· Moisture Control

· Wildlife Management

· Bed Bug Treatments

· Termite Treatments · Mosquito Management

Pick up your FREE ticket at ORMA’s Admissions Office, 2317 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge For more info, call (336) 643-4131 ext. 122 or email lpullins@ormila.com

FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

“Add the extra problem of the ‘waggle tails’ to that, and it’s just something we don’t need,” said Sullivan.

l(336) 272-4400 or visit Cal www.pestmgt.com

Oak Ridge Military Academy! This special performance by the Navy’s official chorus is part of the Navy Band’s national tour. The Sea Chanters perform frequently at the White House, the Vice President’s house, and for dignitaries at Washington embassies.

“I don’t know how other people drive on N.C. 68, but when I’m on it, I am much more alert because of the potential dangers,” Sullivan said. “It’s a narrow road with a relatively high speed limit. Also, consider the number of driveways with direct access onto N.C. 68, which can lead to abrupt stops.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Protecting your family and your investment for over 30 years.

 AUTOS FOR SALE

 EMPLOYMENT

 SAVE THE DATE

2004 ACURA RSX, black on black leather, power moon roof, automatic, 1 owner, 153K miles, $4,500. (336) 392-4263.

PIANO PLAYER NEEDED for Sunday morning worship service, traditional music, 10:45am-12noon weekly. Pleasant Ridge Community Church, 1826 Pleasant Ridge Rd., 27410. Contact Bro. Don, 704-8000.

ENCORE KIDS CONSIGNMENT Check out spring & summer items premiering Saturday, March 7. 305 W. Mountain Street, Kernersville, (336) 993-3444.

2012 VW PASSAT TDI SE with sunroof, 34k miles, fully loaded, one owner, garage kept. $19,900. (336) 707-3867. 1997 Class C TIOGA MOTOR HOME, 97,000 miles, $10,000. (336) 855-8580.

Sell that used vehicle here! One of our 26,000 readers probably needs it! Place your ad at nwobserver.com.

Place online at

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

INDEX Autos for Sale ............................. 19 Childcare Available...................... 19 Employment ................................ 19 Homecare Available .................... 19 Save the Date ............................. 19 Yard Sales ................................... 19 Home Services ....................... 20-21 Misc. Services.............................. 21 Misc. for Sale ......................... 21-22 Misc. Wanted ............................. 22 Pets/Animals & Services ............... 22 Real Estate .................................. 22

Hiring? Place your employment classiﬁed ad online at www.nwobserver.com

 HOMECARE AVAILABLE EXPERIENCED CAREGIVER available for short-term, long-term, or overnight senior care. Excellent references. (336) 247-4164.

 CHILDCARE AVAILABLE  SAVE THE DATE DATE NIGHT! Occasional, mature babysitter available in Summerﬁeld area. Please leave message. (336) 254-1277.

 EMPLOYMENT OPERATION XCEL TUTOR POSITION Operation Xcel is an after-school program that works with high-risk students to provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in higher education and careers. Tutor position is available at our High Point location. 16 hours per week, 3pm-7pm; 1 hour planning, 3 hours tutoring. Pay commensurate with experience. For more information, visit operationxcel. org. Email resume and cover letter to Kelli at kstokes@operationxcel.org. HOUSE CLEANERS NEEDED for a growing cleaning service. Mon-Fri hours. Call today! (336) 541-5164. TALENT SEARCH for companies and job search for professionals. Career Focus Solutions provides workshops designed to help companies recruit and retain top talent that fits their culture. Unemployed professionals find good companies where they best fit in the Triad. Contact Glenn Wise at (336) 298-1152 or visit us online at careerfocussolutions.com.

KIDS CONSIGNMENT SALE, Fri., Feb. 27, 9am-8pm; Sat., Feb. 28, 8am-1pm (some items 50% off on Sat.), St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 2715 Horse Pen Creek Rd., Greensboro, www.stpaulskidssale.com. FAIRY GARDEN WORKSHOP, Saturday, Feb. 28, The Garden Outlet in Summerﬁeld. Please call to register or with any questions. (336) 643-0898. CHILI COOK-OFF, Saturday, Feb. 28, Golden Antiques, 4537 Hwy. 220N, Summerﬁeld. Tasting at 11am, $1 per cup. Judging at 2pm. 1st, 2nd & 3rd prizes. Enter by calling (336) 404-4603. GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT at Golden Antiques, Tuesday, March 3, 6-9pm. Door prizes, guest vendors, sales from booth vendors, music and fun!

Something

going on

Tell northwest Guilford County Place your Save the Date online at

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

CHILI COOK-OFF and wings competition, Sunday, March 8, Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, 2640 Oak Ridge Road. Chili & wings entries ($10/each) arrive at 5pm, judging at 5:30pm, dinner at 6pm. Baked goods auction following dinner. The community is invited to compete and/or join us for dinner - $5/person, $15 family max. All proceeds beneﬁt ORPC youth mission & summer camp trips. Call (336) 643-3452 for more info. ENCORE KIDS CONSIGNMENT Now accepting spring & summer consignments for our Sat., March 7 premier at 305 W. Mountain Street, Kernersville, 993-3444.

Get. Be. Stay. Connected.

facebook.com/NorthwestObserver

 YARD SALES MOVING SALE, Saturday, February 28, 8am-12n, 246 Dionne Way, Stokesdale. Details: Furniture, outdoor patio furniture, lots of kitchen items, TVs, computer and camera equipment, clothes, pictures, picture frames, vases, books, and so much more! Snacks will be provided. YARD SALE, Sat., Feb. 28, 8am-1pm, 198 Woodford Ln., Stokesdale. Furniture, kitchen items and much, much more. Everything must go!

...continued on p. 20

FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

 HOME SERVICES

CLEANING

GENERAL HOME REPAIR, bathroom repair, small/odd jobs. 644-8710, 708-0522.

TRU-GREEN TURF & LANDSCAPE Management. Turf care, landscape maintenance, plant and shrub installation, pinestraw and mulch, mosquito control. Free estimates. (336) 362-6181.

ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Bobcat work and more. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. Call Joe at 643-9157.

BRAD’S BOBCAT. Snow removal! Mulching, landscaping, concrete work. 362-3647.

ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call 382-9875.

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

TOO MUCH YARD WORK TO HANDLE? I do leaf clean up, pruning & tree trimming, bed & yard work, odd jobs. Honest, reliable & reasonable. (336) 464-5215.

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. MARIA’S CLEANING SERVICE. Free estimates, guaranteed service. 937-5231. CHRISTIAN MOM needs work cleaning houses, running errands. Will clean to ﬁt your budget. Pet taxi/pet sitting also avail. References. Call Laura Bennett, 231-1838. FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, tillers & gas equipment. 689-4167. SANDRA’S CLEANING SERVICE, Affordable, experienced, guaranteed svc. 423-3196. SPARKLE CLEANING SERVICES Affordable, quality house cleaning!

Li-

GRADING / HAULING BRAD’S BOBCAT. Snow removal, grading/ hauling, gravel/dirt, driveways. 362-3647. PEARMAN QUARRY HAULING Fill dirt, gravel, sand rock, mulch & more. Joel Richardson, (336) 803-2195. GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, ﬁll dirt, gravel, etc. 362-1150. ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt available. Zane Anthony, 362-4035.

The Northwest Observer 18 years and counting! Want to reach our readers? Call 644-7035 for advertising info.

censed & insured. Call (336) 541-5164. CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING, gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. www.windowcleaningnc.com. 595-2873. ANA’S HOUSECLEANING. Good references, free est., 25 years exp. 309-0747.

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

LAWN CARE / LANDSCAPING

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

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

OLD SCHOOL

Bathroom Remodeling | Additions | Decks

(336) 669-7252

oldschoolsjhr@triad.rr.com www.oldschoolsjhr.homestead.com BBB Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics 2014

Professional, Honest, Reliable

Lisa & Jerry Potkay, Oak Ridge

ONE GUY & A MACHINE LAWN CARE and hardscaping. Maintenance, design, paver patios, block walls, hedges trimmed, beds re-edged, pine needles, mulch, pressure washing, chemical applications, aerating. Licensed & insured. Free est. Call 3824767. www.oneguyandamachine.com. TRU-GREEN TURF & LANDSCAPE Management. Free estimates. (336) 362-6181.

HOME REPAIR, LLC

Home Improvement & Repairs

GUTTERS / WINDOWS / SIDING

HOUSE & YARD HOME MAINTENANCE “Anything to improve your home and property.” Jeff Ziglar, 456-9992 / 643-9609. BOWMAN’S LAWN SERVICE Serving the Triad for over 25 years. Trusted, professional lawn care. Free est. 749-1307.

FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

TRACTOR FOR HIRE Bush hogging, tilling, fencing, brush/tree removal, hauling & more! (336) 207-6632.

What’s going on around town? Find us on Facebook for updates!

D & D LANDSCAPING & IRRIGATION Complete landscaping services. Retaining walls & patios. Member BBB. NC licensed irrigation contractor. 480-4101.

MASONRY

MY GROUNDSKEEPER Landscaping and lawn care, shrubs, mulch, cut low limbs and more. Timothy, 643-5154.

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

STUMP GRINDING – FREE ESTIMATES Big or small, we grind them all. 382-3860.

SOUTHERN STYLE concrete & landscapes. Let us help with your outdoor living and entertainment spaces! No better time for a new ﬁre pit or patio. We do driveways & sidewalks too! Give us a call at (336) 399-6619 for all your concrete and landscape needs.

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. 643-1119.

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ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call 382-9875. AREA STUMP DUMP. Yard waste, concrete, etc. Fill dirt available. 602-5820. WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Complete lawn care & landscaping. NC lic. irrigation contractor. 20 years exp. Hardscaping, fertilization & weed control. 399-7764. CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, 643-9332. CarolinaStumpAndTreeService.com. LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS 17-year anniversary special. We will beat your current written price by 15% – guaranteed! Call (336) 601-3796.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Interior/exterior stone veneer

100’s on display NEW LOCATION: 8605 Triad Dr, Colfax marshallstone.com | (336) 996-4918

MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS GAS LOGS, WOOD STOVES & INSERTS, ﬁreplaces, sold, serviced and repaired. Call Don Hill, (336) 643-7183. LOW-COST GARAGE DOORS. Repair & sales. 35 years exp. (336) 215-2800.

 HOME SERVICES

2 0 years experience All types of furniture problems • Refinishing and repair • Antique restoration • In-home

Furniture Kare Co. (336) 656-4836 furniture-kare36@triad.rr.com www.furniturekare.com

LOCAL PICKUP & DELIVERY • FREE ESTIMATES

It’s here!! The 7th annual NW FINDER

All things need-to-know, fun-to-know and good-to-know about northwest Guilford County. Need a copy? Give us a call!

 HOME SERVICES

PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 32 years exp. Sheetrock repair. No job too small. Insured. Call Brad Rogers, 314-3186.

TRIPP SMITH CONSTRUCTION, LLC. Licensed General Contractor with college degree in construction management and over 18 years of experience. We specialize in additions, remodels, garages, decks, sunrooms, new construction, residential & commercial. No job too large or too small. Free Estimates. Call or email, 399-4894, tripp@trippsmithconstruction.com.

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

Your business should be here too! Reach all of NW Guilford County!

PLUMBING 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. BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic/Ins. Call Mark for savings. 337-7924. JDB PLUMBING. Repair, remodel, well pump. Lic/Ins. Accepts all major credit cards. Ofﬁce 656-0019, cell 382-6905.

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

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

STILL PERFECTION PAINTING Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still,

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Outdoor living | Fire pits | Roof replacements

JLB REMODELING, INC. NC GC license #69997. Free estimates. Insured. Custom remodeling & additions. Call 681-2902 or www.jlbremodeling.com. KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Specializing in room additions, garages, vinyl siding and windows, painting, ceramic tile, laminate, hardwood and linoleum ﬂoors, and remodeling of all kinds. No job too small. Free est. Call 644-1943 or cell 362-7469.

ON-TARGET

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

Tc. GicEes, In ARerv -Tction S OCoNnstru

PAINTING & DRYWALL

Construction Services, INC

RENOVATION WORKS INC. New construction, remodeling, kitchen and bath, additions, decks & patios. Call (336) 427-7391 or www.myrenovationworks.com.

(336) 644-1580

Licensed & insured

ROOFING

FREE Estimates Insured & Dependable

462-3683 or stillperfectionpainting.com.

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

(336) 931-0600

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

NC Gen. Contractor #72797

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens & baths, rotted wood, custom decks, garages, siding, windows, rooﬁng specials. Sr. discounts, 35 years exp. 362-6343. MOBILE WELDING SERVICE Residential, wrought-iron fence & gates, custom fabrication, stainless aluminium. Chuck, 362-8679, triadmobilewelding.com.

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

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, tillers & gas equipment. 689-4167. COMPUTER REPAIRS $99. Used computers, website design. Info at ITBASICS.COM – (336) 643-0068. Inside Mailboxes & More, Oak Ridge Commons. NORTHWEST ART FRAMING Fine, affordable framing. “Northwest Art Framing is a ﬁnd!” – Kate in W/S. Steve Maloy, owner. Call for appt., (336) 644-1911.

 MISC. FOR SALE ALL NATURAL GRASS-FED BEEF, by the 1/4 or by the package. (336) 816-3441. Unused Permobil M300 ELECTRIC CHAIR, recline/tilt, $32K new, asking $4,850. (336) 355-7038. WAREHOUSE MALL, INC Antiques, collectibles, vintage toys & tools. 305 E. Bodenhamer Drive, Kernersville. Hours: Mon-Sat., 10am-6pm, Sun., 1-6pm. FIREWOOD FOR SALE, $75/pickup load, delivered & stacked. (336) 253-7615.

30 yrs exp • Workmanship guarantee Insurance specialists

644-8615 office 508-5242 cell

 MISC. SERVICES

Got stuff? Sell it here in the

NWO classifieds submit your ad at

www.nwobserver.com ...continued on p. 22

FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

 MISC. FOR SALE

 PET / ANIMAL SERVICES  REAL ESTATE

SEASONED FIREWOOD, $80/half cord, delivered and stacked. Call 686-6373.

LOST & FOUND

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

FOUND A PET? The Northwest Observer offers free pet ads for readers trying to help a pet get back home. To place your Found Pet classiﬁed ad, please call Laura, (336) 644-7035, ext. 10.

Did you know . . . . ?

 MISC. WANTED

There are eight local animal rescue groups listed in the 2015 Northwest

WANTED: Artisan that makes pottery, jewelry, other unique items for new shop in Summerﬁeld. No booth fee. (336) 601-2087. $$$ – WILL PAY CASH up to $200 for your junk or wrecked vehicle. 552-0328.

HOMES FOR SALE

FINDER? We’ll help you ﬁnd your

6616 Stonecroft Drive, Oak Ridge

next new family member!

Like-new home in exclusive Oak Ridge Lake community! Spacious, beautiful home on private homesite. Office on main level. Move-in ready! $399,900

BOARDING / LESSONS

Ramilya Siegel

UNWANTED RIDING & PUSH MOWERS, tillers & gas equipment. Call 689-4167.

dREAMCATCHER STABLES of oAk RidgE, LLC.

 PET / ANIMAL SERVICES

CRS, GRI, SRES, Chairman’s Circle Award ( 336 ) 215.9856

ramilya.siegel@atcmail.com www.allentate.com/RamilyaSiegel

Boarding | Training Lessons 336.688.4718

ANIMALS AVAILABLE

Selling or renting?

www.dreamcatcherstable.biz

 REAL ESTATE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

BRUNO is a happy 4-year-old male Labradore Retreiver mix who can’t wait to greet his new best friend with a tail wag and some kisses! He enjoys going on walks and spending time with loved ones. Bruno is not currently neutered, but will be as part of his adoption fee. To learn more about Bruno or other animals in need of a forever home, visit adoptshelterpets.org, or call the Guilford County Animal Shelter, (336) 297-5020.

COMMERCIAL BUILDING FOR RENT, prime location in Stokesdale. Around 1,400 sq. feet with 3 rooms. Rent negotiable! (336) 669-8334 or 669-8335.

HOMES FOR RENT BRAND NEW Robyn’s Glen townhome for rent. 2BR, 2.5BA, W/D included. NW schools. $1,050/mo. Call Tia Crouch, 210-7822.

LOST & FOUND FOUND TRI-COLORED MALE BEAGLE in Summerﬁeld area. Black collar, unable to get close enough to read tags. Please call (443) 513-6048.

Village Woods at Oak Ridge Come home to maintenance-free, luxury living in the heart of Oak Ridge! Over 3,600 square feet with superior design details, gourmet kitchen and oversized private elevator. Easy drive to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point and Kernersville. Situated on 25+ acres just 10 minutes from PTI Airport.

FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

Betty Moser-Callahan (336) 403-5545

Tammy Gardner (336) 509-3303

Check out nwobserver.com Place your classiﬁed, submit a Grin or a Gripe, comment on an article, view your Community Calendar, link to our Facebook page, view our media brochure, and be in-the-know about all things totally local. The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

The Northwest Observer reaches over 11,000 mailboxes in Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Stokesdale each week. Plus, it’s available for free at local restaurants, grocery stores, post offices and more.

We’ll help you reach northwest Guilford County!

display advertiser index thanks

to all the advertisers who partnered with us to bring you this free community resource A/C & HEATING Stokesdale Heating & Air.......................7

ACCOUNTING Carlotta Lytton, CPA, PA .....................15

CHURCHES

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

Oak Ridge United Methodist Church .....3

Pest Management Systems, Inc. .........18

A New Dawn Realty ............................15

Summerfield First Baptist Church.........10

ProStone, Inc. .......................................3

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services ......5

Southern States ..............................Insert

Bobbie Gardner, Keller Williams...........15

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER / PUBLISHING CO.

LEGAL SERVICES

Northwest Observer.............................23

Attorney Bill Barbour ...........................16

Ramilya Siegel, Allen Tate ..................22

RETAIL BiRite Food Center ................................2

DANCE INSTRUCTION

MEDICAL

Carpet Super Mart..........................12-13

Nan’s School of Dance ........................17

Eagle Physicians at Oak Ridge .............17

Citrus Unlimited...................................15

LeBauer Health Care ........................... 11

Josie’s Boutique .....................................9

Kimberly Thacker Accounting..............15

EVENTS

Samuel Anders, CPA, MSA, PC ...........10

Sea Chanters, US Navy Band ..............18

Midtown Furniture ...............................24

PET SERVICES KPS – Kelly’s Pet Services ....................15

SCHOOLS

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

HOME BUILDER

Northwest Animal Hospital ..................15

Oak Level Baptist Academy ...................6

Piedmont Truck Tires, Inc. ....................8

Windsor Homes ...................................14

Westergaard Kennels...........................15

Triad Accelerated Preschool ..................4

days a week

From high school sports games to town meeting rooms, we’ve got northwest Guilford County covered

Advertise in the

Contact us for advertising information and learn how to deliver your message to 26,000 readers (336) 644-7035 ext. 10 advertising@nwobserver.com

and be included in a local news source that is trusted by readers and relevant to their daily lives

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Laura Troeger

Annette Joyce

associate publisher

advertising manager

FEB. 27 - MARCH 5, 2015

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Postal Patron

Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22

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

ECRWSS

YEARS INTEREST FREE FINANCING*

PAYMENTS AS LOW AS $ WITH $2000 FINANCED!

Twin, Full or Queen Bedroom Suite

TWIN

129

* PER MONTH

399

Queen Bedroom Suite

TWIN, FULL OR QUEEN

299

MATTRESS SET

599

FULL OR QUEEN MATTRESS ONLY

TWIN, FULL OR QUEEN

499

MATTRESS SET

699

299

MATTRESS SET

Flipable!

QUEEN OR FULL

MATTRESS SET

Plush or Pillowtop

2-SIDED QUEEN OR FULL

TWIN, FULL OR QUEEN

KING

399

MATTRESS SET

FULL OR QUEEN

1499

MATTRESS SET

Memory Foam

Also Available in Cherry

799

Compare at $2299

Also Available in King

199 1

100 Colors Available

599

& Mobility Inc..

Qualty Lift Chairss

WE OFFER 30 DIFFERENT STYLES TO CHOOSE FROM

Sofa or Loveseat $

499

at $499 10 Colors Available

MED- IFT

Compare at $3799

Power Rocker Recliner Compare $

Wallsaver R Recliner Compare $

LLift Recliner

2099

399

at $1099 Also Available in Tan

299

Available Compare at $599 in Black

549

Compare at $1099

Sofa or Loveseat $

Rocking Recliner $

899

Compare at $1099

Table & 4 Chairs $

Sofa or Loveseat $

Compare at $699

Compare at $1199

599

299

at $1299

Reclining Sofa or Reclining Loveseat Compare $

449

399

C Compare at $1499 Compare at $799

Rocking Recliner Also $

Reclining Sofa or Reclining Loveseat Compare $

at $1999

2 Piece Sectional

799

Compare Available at $1999 in 6 Colors

FREE EXTENDED D L LAYAWAY AYAWAY AVA AVAILABLE – TAKE IT HOME TODAY!! DELIVERY AND DISPOSAL AVAILABLE

SUPERSTORE

Call 427-5413

7 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

We want you to be happy. You have up to 7 days to decide. If you are unhappy with your purchase for any reason we will gladly exchange your furniture or refund your money, including tax and any delivery fee you may have been charged in full!

MIDTOWN DTOW WN FURNITU URNITURE

& MATTRESS CENTER

SUPERSTORE Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9:00 am-6:00 pm or by Appt. Plenty of Parking • Large Showroom

Hwy. 220 Business across from Kmart, 727 N. Highway Street, Madison, NC 27025 • www.midtownfurniture.com

*With financed amount of $2000 or more with approved credit. See store for complete financing details. Bedroom includes dresser, mirror, complete bed & night stand. Sale does not apply to previous purchases. All advertised prices are after all available discounts. We reserve the right to replace products advertised if they become unavailable.

BUS 220

Martinsville Eden

Mayodan

135

704

Midtown Furniture

Madison BYP 220

Reidsville

311

704

Winston-Salem Greensboro