Northwest Observer | March 7 - 13, 2014 by pscommunications

March 7 - 13, 2014

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

Property assessments completed Town will move forward with purchase of 16.1 acres by PATTI STOKES SUMMERFIELD – Over four years ago the Summerfield Town Council made it known that it wanted to purchase suitable property for additional administrative and meeting space. In the time since, town officials considered about a half dozen properties, from Auburn Road to the former Laughlin Primary School near the north end of Summerfield Road.

merfield Town Hall were placed on the market with an asking price of $598,000. Though the two tracts are not adjacent to each other, the owners of Ralph Gordon, LLC combined them because they did not want to sell them separately. The larger of the two tracts is 15.66 acres and includes one occupied house, an unoccupied house, a barn and a mobile home park bordered on either side by US 220 and Summerfield Road. The park had been occupied by nine families who rented the land their mobile homes were on for $125 per month.

In September 2011, two tracts of land totaling 16.1 acres and located near the Sum-

The second tract of land is .35 acres and

...continued on p. 10

The Town of Summerﬁeld plans to renovate the former Gordon Hardware building (left) for administrative and meeting space. The structure beside it will likely be demolished.

Wild about Loco Nuts After-school program incorporates health and physical ﬁtness into fun activities by LAURA PULLINS NW GREENSBORO – According to the National Survey of Children, North Carolina is ranked the fifth most obese state in the nation for youth. Startling statistics like these inspired some local teachers to start an early-intervention program for Photo by Laura Pullins/NWO children in grades K-2 that proJohn Bullock proudly displays his motes health and physical fitness. silhouette of the human body, illusThe Loco Nuts after-school protrating the different organs, muscles gram was introduced at Pearce Eland bones he’s learned about from the Loco Nuts program. ementary last fall as a collaboration

between the elementary school, the Department of Kinesiology at Greensboro College and Guilford County Schools; the program is staffed by a group of dedicated volunteers. Kindergarten teacher Shelley Hunt and P.E. teacher Stephen Foulks are primarily responsible for creating and running the Loco Nuts after-school program. The teachers receive guidance from Randy Hunt, exercise and sport studies professor at Greensboro College, and his students.

...continued on p. 30

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

IN THIS ISSUE News in brief........................................ 3 Your Questions .................................... 4 Wedding dream comes true ............. 9 Pets & Critters .....................................11 Strutting their stuff ..............................12 Charlie and me .................................13 Pet Adoptions.....................................14 Community Calendar.......................15 Business Notes ...................................18 Bits & Pieces .......................................18 NWHS standouts................................ 20 Student Profiles ................................. 22 Crime/Incident Report ..................... 23 Letters/Opinions .............................. 24 Grins & Gripes ................................... 24 Classifieds ......................................... 26 Index of Advertisers ..........................31 NWO On The Go! .............................. 32

Don’t forget

to set your clocks forward one hour before going to bed Saturday, March 8!

NEWS in brief

MEET THE

COLD WITH

Don’t fall prey to scams

CONFIDENCE

Sheriff warns that a popular scam is resurfacing GUILFORD COUNTY – Scam artists can be pretty clever. Representing themselves as a sheriff’s deputy, they’re calling potential victims and saying the victim owes money. To make the scam more believable, the caller is “spoofing” the incoming phone number to make it appear on the caller ID as if it is actually coming from the Sheriff’s office. The caller will tell the victim that a warrant has been issued for them and they will be arrested unless the amount is paid within a very short period of time (usually about 30 minutes). If the amount is paid within the allotted time, the arrest will not happen, says the caller.

HEATING SYSTEM SERVICE, REPAIR & NEW INSTALLATION

Another common feature of this scam is the caller will be very aggressive towards the victim on the phone and become pushy in an attempt to get the victim agitated so they become confused and comply with the request before they have time to verify the call.

No Interest for 15 Months* OR 8.9% APR Financing* Offer valid thru Dec 31, 2014

If anyone encounters one of these calls, do not send any money – and hang up on the caller. The Sheriff’s office says it does not make these types of calls and will never demand money in lieu of arrest. If you receive a call like the one described above, call the Sheriff’s office at (336)641-3355 or call 911 to report the incident.

7101 US 158, Stokesdale • (336) 643-7397 • www.trane.com NEW SYSTEM INSTALLATION • SERVICE • REPAIR • FINANCING AVAILABLE *See your independent Trane dealer for complete program eligibility, dates, details and restrictions. Special financing offers valid on qualifying systems only. All sales must be to homeowners in the United States. Void where prohibited. The Home Projects® Visa® card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit at participating merchants. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. Reduced Rate APR: Monthly payments of at least 1.75% of the purchase balance are required during the special terms period. 0%/15 Months: Regular minimum monthly payments are required during the special terms period. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date at the APR for Purchases if the purchase balance is not paid in full within the promotional period. For newly opened accounts, the regular APR is 27.99%. The APR will vary with the market based on the U.S. Prime Rate. The regular APR is given as of 1/10/2013. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. The regular APR will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. If you use the card for cash advances, the cash advance fee is 5.0% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $10.00. Monthly payment if shown based on $7,100 purchase.

US 158 Committee meeting rescheduled for March 17 STOKESDALE – The US 158 Committee will have to wait a few more weeks before being re-activated. A meeting scheduled for Monday, March 3 was cancelled because of inclement weather. It has been re-scheduled for Monday, March 17 at 6 p.m. and will be held at the Stokesdale Town Hall,

Padonda Campbell, DNP, FNP-BC Padonda is a family nurse practitioner whose experience includes family practice, urgent care, emergency medicine, pain management and critical care.

8325 Angel Pardue Road. The purpose of the meeting is to review a map with proposed routes for the US 158 Bypass in Stokesdale and discuss which route would be preferable. The preferred route will ultimately presented to the town council, and then to the Department of Transportation.

She actively serves the community as a volunteer precepting college students to become nurse practitioners, and also enjoys teaching as an adjunct professor. Born and raised in Winston-Salem, Padonda is the proud mother of a 7-year-old daughter, Kamryn Gabrielle, and a Shih-Tzu dog named Aggie.

Upcoming council meetings SUMMERFIELD/STOKESDALE – The Summerfield Town Council will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, March 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the Summerfield Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road (behind the Summerfield Elementary School). Once finalized, a meeting agenda will be posted on the town’s website at www.summerfieldgov.com.

The Stokesdale Town Council will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday, March 13 at 7 p.m. at the Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. Once finalized, a meeting agenda will be posted on the town’s website at www.stokesdale.org.

...continued on p. 6

LeBauer at Brassfield 3803 Robert Porcher Way, Greensboro LOCATION HOURS 8am- 5pm | Mon - Fri (336) 286-3442

www.lebauer.com

A Member Of

MEDICAL GROUP

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

 Same-day appointments  On-site lab  Referrals available with other LeBauer divisions  Electronic medical records  Secure patient portal to schedule appointments and communicate with your provider

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

your QUESTIONS Curious about something? Submit your questions about topics relevant to the northwest area

OUR TEAM Patti Stokes, editor/publisher Laura Troeger, associate publisher Annette Joyce, marketing manager Laura Pullins, editorial assistant Sean Gentile, art director Yvonne Truhon, page layout Leon Stokes, technology director Lucy Smith, finance manager Linda Schatz, distribution manager Helen Ledford, Sharon Neely, Annette Joyce, contributing writers

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

OFFICE HOURS M-F 9am-2pm (or by appointment) 1616 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge

ASK US ABOUT ADVERTISING Contact Laura Troeger (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 display: advertising@nwobserver.com classified: classifieds@nwobserver.com

online: nwobserver.com e-mail: questions@nwobserver.com During recent discussions about proposed revisions to Summerfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public nuisance ordinance, some questions came up regarding how the town handles enforcement of its ordinances. Though Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Stokesdale have many similar ordinances, each town handles enforcement of them differently. Out of curiosity, we asked town staff members how many complaints about potential ordinance

QGM HA;C AL GML& QGM HA;C QGM HA;C QGM HA;C QGM HA;C QGM HA;C QGM HA;C AL GML& AL GML& AL GML& AL GML& AL GML& AL GML&

O= DD H9;C O= DD H9;C O= DD H9;C O= DD H9;C O= DD H9;C 9F< K@AH AL O= DD H9;C O= DD H9;C 9F< K@AH AL 9F< K@AH AL 9F< K@AH AL 9F< K@AH AL 9F< K@AH AL OAL@ ;9J=& 9F< K@AH AL OAL@ ;9J=& OAL@ ;9J=& OAL@ ;9J=& OAL@ ;9J=& OAL@ ;9J=& OAL@ ;9J=& 5IF 614 4UPSF ! (VOUFS T $SPTTJOH 5IF 614 4UPSF ! (VOUFS T $SPTTJOH 5IF 614 4UPSF ! (VOUFS T $SPTTJOH

5IF 614 4UPSF ! (VOUFS T $SPTTJOH 5IF 614 4UPSF ! (VOUFS T $SPTTJOH 5IF 614 4UPSF ! (VOUFS T $SPTTJOH / $IVSDI 4USFFU / $IVSDI 4USFFU 5IF 614 4UPSF ! (VOUFS T $SPTTJOH / $IVSDI 4USFFU / $IVSDI 4USFFU 5IF 614 4UPSF ! (VOUFS T $SPTTJOH / $IVSDI 4USFFU / $IVSDI 4USFFU (SFFOTCPSP /$ / $IVSDI 4USFFU (SFFOTCPSP /$ (SFFOTCPSP /$ / $IVSDI 4USFFU (SFFOTCPSP /$ 5IF 614 4UPSF ! (VOUFS T $SPTTJOH (SFFOTCPSP /$ (SFFOTCPSP /$ (SFFOTCPSP /$ (SFFOTCPSP /$ / $IVSDI 4USFFU (SFFOTCPSP /$ )PVST )PVST

.PO 'SJ B N Q N )PVST )PVST )PVST .PO 'SJ B N Q N )PVST )PVST )PVST 4BU B N Q N .PO 'SJ B N Q N .PO 'SJ B N Q N 4BU B N Q N .PO 'SJ B N Q N .PO 'SJ B N Q N .PO 'SJ B N Q N )PVST .PO 'SJ B N Q N 4BU B N Q N 4BU B N Q N 4BU B N Q N 4BU B N Q N .PO 'SJ B N Q N 4BU B N Q N 4BU B N Q N 4BU B N Q N

violations their town routinely receives, who is responsible for enforcing the ordinances, and how their town pays for enforcement. Summerfield is the only northwest-area town to contract with an independent enforcement company. The town first outsourced its ordinance enforcement in 2007, when it contracted with BenchMark; the contract shifted to N-Focus in December 2011. â&#x20AC;&#x153;According to past minutes, the town outsourced this service â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;due to limited town staff, and the unpredictable nature of the volume of both code enforcement complaints and planning workload,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? explained Summerfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s town manager, Scott Whitaker. A town planner could do code enforcement, Whitaker acknowledged, but he said it would be too much given the plannerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s average workload. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Also, part of being a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;limited servicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; local government is contracting instead

File photo/NWO

In the northwest area, zoning, nuisance, signage and other ordinance violations are handled differently from town to town.

of maintaining in-house staff for certain functions,â&#x20AC;? Whitaker continued. â&#x20AC;&#x153;N-Focus has professional expertise and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s merit to having a non-employee handle potentially confrontational cases. The current set-up allows the enforcement officer to focus on citizen complaints, and then our staff can get involved as needed to clarify ordinance particulars and/or suggest solutions.â&#x20AC;?

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

Independently owned and published by $PQZSJHIU h .BJM #PYFT &UD *OD $ $& $PQZSJHIU h .BJM #PYFT &UD *OD $ $& $PQZSJHIU h .BJM #PYFT &UD *OD $ $& $PQZSJHIU h .BJM #PYFT &UD *OD $ $&

$PQZSJHIU h .BJM #PYFT &UD *OD $ $& $PQZSJHIU h .BJM #PYFT &UD *OD $ $& $PQZSJHIU h .BJM #PYFT &UD *OD $ $& $PQZSJHIU h .BJM #PYFT &UD *OD $ $& $PQZSJHIU h .BJM #PYFT &UD *OD $ $&

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

$PQZSJHIU h .BJM #PYFT &UD *OD $ $& $PQZSJHIU h .BJM #PYFT &UD *OD $ $&

The Northwest Observer â&#x20AC;˘ Totally local since 1996

www.attorneybillbarbour.com

On average, Summerfield receives a couple complaints from citizens each month, Whitaker said. The code enforcement contract with N-Focus is for approximately 20 hours per month, for which the town pays $989.46. Since contracting with N-Focus in December 2011, the N-Focus enforcement officer has dealt with 99 citizen complaints in Summerfield and 14 cases are pending. Stokesdale’s town clerk, Carolyn Joyner, says Stokesdale does not work with an independent enforcement company. Rather, Guilford County handles most of the ordinance enforcement as part of its service contract with the town. As for how many complaints the town receives about ordinance violations, Joyner says she does not keep track. “Most calls are referred to the county and citizens may call the county directly, so I do not know about the call,” Joyner said. Oak Ridge’s town manager, Bruce Oakley, says the cost of zoning enforcement is included in the town’s planning services contract with Guilford County. Town staff, however, enforces the nuisance ordinance and some parts of the zoning ordinance. On average, Oak Ridge receives about 5 to 10 complaints a month about potential ordinance violations. “Most of the complaints are about signs and overgrown yards in the summer,” Oakley said. I understand entry fees for the Stokesdale parade were not refunded even though the parade was cancelled in December due to inclement weather. I’m curious as to how other towns handle this situation. You are correct – at its Jan. 21 meeting, the Stokesdale Town Council voted 4-1 to keep the $15 parade entry fees and additional business donations the town received for the parade, which was cancelled on Dec. 14 due to inclement weather. Vicki White-Lawrence, who chaired the parade committee last year, was the only council

File photo/NWO

Stokesdale’s annual holiday parade was cancelled in December because of inclement weather.

member in favor of offering refunds. Stokesdale uses income from the parade each year to offset parade expenses and to help cover the cost of hanging up and taking down holiday banners in the downtown area. We checked with three neighboring towns which have holiday parades to see if they have a policy regarding refunding parade fees in the event of cancellation. Although Pleasant Garden initially thought its December holiday parade might have to be cancelled altogether because of inclement weather, the town was able to re-schedule the parade. “When we thought we were cancelling the parade, we contacted each and every entry and asked them if they wanted a refund or wanted to apply it to next year’s event,” says Sandy Carmany, town administrator. With the exception of one person, Carmany says everyone chose to apply the $5 entry fee to the 2014 holiday parade. Arzell Montgomery, who oversees the annual holiday event for Walnut Cove, says the town does not charge parade entry fees, but does charge vendor fees to individuals and businesses who set up during the parade to sell

We’re growing to better serve you Novant Health Northwest Family Medicine

Ashley Michaels, PA

The team you trust for your family’s care is growing again. Novant Health Northwest Family Medicine is pleased to welcome Ashley Michaels, PA, and Chris Foster, NP. Ashley and Chris are specially trained to care for injuries and illness in patients of all ages, from newborns to seniors. They look forward to meeting you and providing expert care for you and your family in every stage of life.

To schedule an appointment with Ashley or Chris, call 336-643-3378 or visit nhnorthwestfamilymedicine.org. Chris Foster, NP

Located in the King’s Crossing Shopping Center 7607-B Highway 68 North Oak Ridge/Stokesdale area

...continued on p. 22

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

NEWS in brief

...continued from p. 3

Filing deadline closes GUILFORD COUNTY – Justin Conrad (R), a candidate for District 3 county commissioner, only needs one vote to win his bid for the seat being vacated this fall by fellow Republican Linda Shaw. District 3 includes the northwest area of Guilford County, which Shaw has represented for the last 16 years. Former Greensboro city councilman Danny Thompson, also a Republican, entered the race in late January but withdrew one week later. When the filing period closed on Feb. 28, Conrad had the race all to himself. It’s quite a different scenario in the race for the 6th District Congressional seat being vacated by U.S. Rep Howard Coble. Coble, who has held that seat since 1985, announced in November that he would not seek re-election. The 6th District is comprised of five entire counties, Caswell, Person, Rockingham, Stokes, and Surry, along with portions of five other counties, Alamance, Durham, Granville, Guilford,

and Orange. Eleven candidates have filed for the 6th District Congressional seat; among them are two county commissioners, Bruce Davis (D) and Jeff Phillips (R). Phillips, who represents District 5, which includes part of Summerfield, recently completed his first year on the board of commissioners. Should he lose his bid for Coble’s seat, he will serve out his four-year term as county commissioner, which ends in 2016. Davis will run in the May 6 primary election against fellow Democrat Laura Fjeld. The Republican primary election for the 6th District Congressional seat will be a bit more crowded – joining Phillips in that race will be Mike Causey, Phil Berger Jr., Kenn Kopf, Zack Matheny, Charles Sutherland, Bruce VonCannon, Mark Walker and Don Webb. The top vote-getting candidates in each party will run in the general election on Nov. 4.

Keep it handy

Use it often It’s packed with need-to-know, fun-to-know -to-know and good-to-know info about northwest Guilford County

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

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Get. Be. Stay. Connected facebook.com / NorthwestObserver

ol program â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loco Nutsâ&#x20AC;? after-scho y ar nt me Ele e arc Pe E. P. Thursday, Feb. 27

ing us ght and join ing out toni m co ne yo you for ever os!!! Thank Great phot astic night! nt fa a It was for dinner. selves tdone them PTO has ou ES R O e Th t time. had a grea P Melissa, we e invite! -L th r fo ks again. Than

Stokesdale E lementary

Pajama Fund raiser

Friday, Feb. 28

Photos courtesy of Misty Felde Photography

After winning an $18,000-wedding package, Sarah Suttle and Jonathan Gobble will be married at the beautiful Bella Collina mansion on Belews Lake. More than 100 weddings will be held at the 22,000-square-foot private mansion in 2014.

Dream comes true for high school science teacher Mansion owners offer princess-style wedding package to contest winners by SHARON NEELY BELEWS LAKE – All her life, Sarah Suttle, a science teacher at East Forsyth High School, has wanted nothing more than to feel like a princess – especially on her wedding day. But that dream was fading fast as the realities of expenses, unsupportive parents and major health issues arose. Recovering from two brain surgeries within the last two years, Suttle’s medical bills had mounted up, and although she and her fiancé, Jonathan Gobble, had worked hard to save, it didn’t help that neither of them has a high-paying job. As hopes of her magical wedding were dwindling, little did Sarah know that complete strangers were making plans that would turn her dream of a princess-style wedding into a reality. Bella Collina, a 22,000-square-foot, Tuscany-themed, private mansion overlooking beautiful Belews Lake in Stokesdale, has been opening its over-sized, double doors to the public for weddings since February 2013. Pleased with the large number of weddings held at their old-world-style home last year, the owners wanted to give back to the com-

munity by creating a contest that would allow the winning couple an all-inclusive wedding package valued at $18,000. After publicizing the contest, the owners were flooded with 288 applications. Narrowing down the contestants was not easy. “All the couples had such great stories,” a staff member says. “They were all so deserving.” Once the list was whittled down to 10 couples, a panel of judges voted on the final three. The contest was then turned over to WKZL’s morning program, where hosts Jared Pike and Katie O’Brien asked listeners to vote for their favorite couple. After over 127,000 votes came in from around the United States and Europe, it was announced on Valentine’s Day 2014 that Suttle and Gobble – with almost 76,000 votes – were the winning couple. “I used to tear up when someone asked me when my wedding date was,” remembers Suttle. “Now I know I’ll have my wedding on these beautiful grounds.” With over 100 weddings planned for 2014, Bella Collina offers soon-to-bemarried couples an array of options for

their special day. Packages run between $8,000 and $25,000. The wedding planning is simplified by providing couples with a list of pre-selected caterers and DJs. Selecting a wedding dress and even choosing invitations are also part of the whole process. “It’s a very personal experience,” says a Bella Collina staff member. “We get to know the couples really well during the process and help them with anything they need along the way.” To Suttle, the previous “strangers”

at Bella Collina are now her friends and she’s grateful to all of them. She’s also found that sometimes, dreams really do come true. “I want to feel like a princess and Bella Collina is definitely going to make that happen,” says Suttle. “This is the most exciting thing that’s ever happened to me.” To follow Suttle’s wedding blog, go to becomingabellabride.blogspot.com/ 2014/02/princess-from-prince.html For more about Bella Collina mansion, visit www.bellacollinamansion.com

New Patients Accepted Daily Complimentary Consulations

ACUPUNCTURE

CERTIFIED PROVIDER

12 336-644-11 336-644-1112 336-644-1112

Dr. Rod C. Brown

www.summerfieldchiro.com 4523 Hwy 220N • Summerfield, NC 27358

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

PROPERTY PURCHASE

tion of a structural examination of the former Gordon Hardware building and acceptable results from an environmental assessment of the entire 16.01 acres.

...continued from p. 1 is located across the street from the town hall, at the intersection of NC 150 and Summerfield Road. On it rests the former Gordon Hardware building, which had been unoccupied for decades. Similar to the town hall in architectural style, the historic twostory brick building was built in the mid-1800s. Beside the building is a dilapidated barn-style structure facing Summerfield Road that was once used as a blacksmith’s shop.

On Nov. 26, the town council announced it had entered into an agreement to purchase the two tracts of land and permanent structures on it for $399,000, contingent upon comple-

The announcement sparked an uproar from some who claimed the town was insensitive to residents of the mobile home park by purchasing the property and displacing them. One resident, Betty Holder, had lived there for almost 40 years and because her trailer was manufactured before 1976, it was too old to move, set back up at a new location and hook up to electricity.

Samples of building materials including drywall, floor linoleum, window glazing and roof shingles from the structures that will remain on the property were tested for asbestos and reports indicated levels of 0 to less than 1 percent.

In the midst of the controversy, the town moved forward with the structural and environmental assessments. Initially the agreement provided 60 days to complete them, but the town later obtained a 30-day extension. The 90-day assessment period ended on March 2.

Low levels of lead paint were detected in test samples taken from some of the interior and exterior walls of the structures, and it was advised that OSHA guidelines and safe work practices be adhered to when renovation gets underway.

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

Oak Ridge Business Center

8004 Linville Rd, Suite G, Oak Ridge

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

All tests have been completed at this point. The results of two radon tests performed on the former Gordon Hardware building showed an average radon level of 0.4 pCi/L, far below the level at which the EPA recommends treating radon (4 pCi/L or above).

www.samanderscpa.com

Sunday School • 9 am & 10:30 am Sunday Traditional Service • 9 am Contemporary Service • 10:30 am AWANA • 5 pm Evening Worship • 6 pm Wednesday activities • 6:30 pm

2300 Scalesville Rd, Summerfield • 643-6383 • www.summerfieldfbc.com

Soil sample reports indicated no contaminants. Satisfied with the test results and structural assessments, Town Manager Scott Whitaker says the Gordon family has been notified that the town intends to follow through with the property purchase. Of the nine families who had lived in the mobile home park when the town announced the purchase agreement in November, five families have moved and four are still living there.

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

Speaking on behalf of Robert Gordon, LLC, Bob Gordon says those tenants will be given at least a 60-day written notice before they are required to move out. Gordon says he and his family’s property management company have worked with the management company of another mobile park which has offered the tenants $1,000 to assist in moving their trailers to that location (provided the trailers were not manufactured before 1976). “Everybody except one tenant has been pleased with what we’re doing to help them,” Gordon says. Whitaker says at the upcoming council meeting on March 11, he will be making a presentation and offering more details about how the town envisions using the Gordon property, as well as addressing questions that have arisen since the purchase agreement was announced, such as why the town agreed to purchase the entire 16.1 acres.

want to go? More details about the town’s plans for the 16.1-acre Gordon property will be presented at the Summerfield Town Council meeting on Tuesday, March 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road.

The real estate market is back! Your local real estate expert to buy or sell since 1996

Ramilya Siegel

CRS, GRI, ABR, CDPE, Realtor®

(336) 215-9856 ramilya.siegel@allentate.com

/RamilyaSiegel

Christian Life Center

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Thanks to the advertisers who made this section possible

March 2014 a monthly feature of the Northwest Observer

Have a newsworthy animal story? e-mail: editor@nwobserver.com

Humans aren’t the only ones who celebrate Valentine’s Day! Amanda Stafford submitted this photo of her dog, Memphis, and miniature donkey, Baxter, sharing some puppy love early February.



This snowman smells a hungry horse! Garland Graham of Summerﬁeld sent in this photo of her horse, Diesel, gobbling up a poor snowman’s nose. Garland reports that Diesel found it irresistible. We haven’t received an update on the snowman’s condition, but we’re sure by now his problems have melted away.

Cat got your camera? We love your photos and so do our readers, but doggone it, we just haven’t gotten many lately!

Send your pet/animal photos to photos@nwobserver.com



 (Top) Dash, a Greater Swiss Mountain dog owned by Danny and Linda Yanusz of Oak Ridge, enjoys the recent snowfall. (Bottom) Cabot, at just over three months old, is the newest addition to the Yanusz family. Full of energy, he gives Dash’s leash a tug as if to say, “Come on, Big Brother, let’s go for a run.” The two are quickly becoming the best of friends.

We love hearing about our feline readers getting excited about the local news. In fact, it had Fred the Celebrity cat doing cartwheels! His owner, Lisa Pegram, regularly posts photos of Fred’s antics on Facebook.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

Strutting their stuff for a good cause Red Dog Farm’s annual ‘Dogs on the Catwalk’ set for March 15 by ANNETTE JOYCE When you think of models walking the catwalk, a certain image may come to mind – i.e., beautiful, long-legged women who gracefully sashay down the runway with an air of indifference. Now, erase that image completely from your mind and prepare yourself for a catwalk adventure that you won’t soon forget. It’s the 6th annual Dogs on the Catwalk, a tail-wagging event featuring the antics of some of the area’s most lovable furry, four-legged models and their owners. It takes place on March 15 at Triad Stage in downtown Greensboro. Dogs on the Catwalk is the main fundraiser for Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network, a local nonprofit organization

Your pet’s well-being is our primary concern. Celebrating 22 years serving northwest Guilford County Full Service including digital radiography, ultrasound, in-house laboratory, online pharmacy and therapeutic treatments

Dr. Julie Packard, DVM

(336) 665-1286 www.bel-airevet.com M-F 8am-5:30pm Sat 8am-noon Drop-offs as early as 7:30am

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

that rescues and rehabilitates neglected, abused or otherwise unwanted animals and seeks to find them permanent homes. The annual fundraiser provides a night of fun and celebration for animals and their people, and is packed with activities to delight the entire family. The event kicks off at 7 p.m. when attendees are invited to sample the delicious array of food donated by area restaurants and caterers including Chocolate Pops, Maxi B’s, Painted Plate, Cafe’ Pasta, Josephine’s Bistro and more. Beer and wine will also be available. During this time, attendees can peruse the vast assortment of goods and services offered in the silent auction. Red Dog Farm’s executive director, Lauren Riehle, says everything in the silent auction is donated, and she and the volunteers go to great lengths to make sure each item is as appealing as possible. “We try to have fun with it and be creative,” says Riehle. There will be numerous themed baskets for auction, including a Crayola basket and another tailored specifically for the beach lover. There are also baskets for people who enjoy artwork, birds, puzzles and fashion. Additionally, there are certificates for spa days, fishing trips and restaurant meals, and attendees can even bid on a NASCAR experience and a Top Gun fighter jet experience. Plus, there are lots of autographed items from various celebrities. At 8 p.m. the crowd is ushered into the theater for the main event of the night. Garland Graham, who along with her husband Gary is the founder of Red Dog Farm, sums up the doggy fashion show in one word – “hilarious.” The canine models are dogs that have

Photos courtesy of Red Dog Farm

(Above) Two young cowpokes show off their canine at last year’s event. (Left) Having raised over $5,000 for Red Dog Farms when he ran the Boston Marathon last year, Reid Bolinger of Summerﬁeld escorted Reagan, one of the organization’s adoptable dogs, at last year’s event.

been adopted from Red Dog Farm, and their owners compete to come up with the best way to showcase their pet and make a fashion statement. “Each owner picks out a song and the

dog is dressed to match that song,” Graham explains. “People get really creative. It’s so much fun.”

...continued on p. 30

Get your pooch fit this summer! Pets need exercise just like people. With my 20+ year background in fitness training, your dogs’ needs can be met through walking or running

KPS Kelly’s Pet Services PROFESSIONAL IN-HOME PET SITTING

Your best friend deserves the best care

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Call, email, or Facebook message to schedule a FREE consultation (336) 706-6706

petsit.com/kps

/kpspets

Sitting, walking, pet taxi & more Member, Pet Sitters International • Insured & Bonded by Kennel Pro

Ch��

�n �

��

Crate, antler turn a wild ride into an enjoyable experience by ANNETTE JOYCE

which was not a safe activity at all.

While our biggest challenge with Charlie has been his incessant chewing, teaching him to be a well-mannered rider has been no walk in the park.

The smartest and safest thing would have been to put Charlie in a crate from the get-go, but he put up such a fight that I didn’t do it. With no other options, I got the crate this past Christmas.

After adapting to riding in a crate, Charlie has become the traveling companion I’d hoped for.

At first, our sweet Labrador retriever puppy looked like he was going to be a darling in the car. When my husband Kelly and I brought Charlie home from Eden, he slept peacefully in my lap, bundled in a layer of towels. He didn’t seem to miss his yapping brothers and sisters one little bit. During those first few days, I drove Charlie to the vet, took him to see my co-workers and even made a stop at the aromatic Wendy’s drive-thru. As I tooled around town, he snoozed quietly underneath the steering wheel. That lasted for about three days. The trouble started when Charlie could no longer fit underneath the steering wheel and was relegated to riding shotgun. From that point on, he sat in the passenger seat, looked straight at me and barked and howled during the entire duration of any of our trips. I had no idea why, I just knew I couldn’t make him stop. Eventually, Charlie ended up in the back seat. He wasn’t barking any more. Nope – his energy was now being directed at destroying the rear compartment of our truck. It started when he was about four months old and we were riding home from his obedience class (ironic, I know). As I glanced in the rearview mirror, I noticed that Charlie seemed overly inter-

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

ested in the back door. Oh, no. After pulling over, I discovered that he was gnawing the vinyl cover off the door’s interior. I stopped three more times before we managed to make it home. Fortunately, the door was still intact – but it did show signs of some serious munching. Despite the fact that riding with Charlie became a chore, this past summer I decided to take him to a dock diving event that was being held in Siler City. This was nearly two hours away – the longest amount of time he had ever been in a vehicle. I talked an unsuspecting friend into driving while I sat in the back and wrestled with my 85-pound puppy. By the time we finally arrived, I was exhausted. Charlie had chewed up his special floating toy and nearly dropped it out the window twice. He chewed a hole in my cloth bag and ripped to shreds the numerous towels I had brought for him.

Talk about a game changer! Charlie resisted at first. In fact, the first time we tried to get him into the crate, he bolted underneath it onto the floor of the truck and got stuck. It took both Kelly and me to coax him out.

Fortunately, he was the exhausted one coming home and slept the entire trip.

Now, however, he loves it. I’m sure it doesn’t hurt that there’s a dedicated antler waiting for him when he rides. Lying comfortably in his crate while gnawing on his antler, in Charlie’s world, all is right.

It took me awhile – okay, it took me a really long time – but I finally realized Charlie wasn’t going to be the calm traveling companion that I had imagined. I was spending too much time fighting with him while I was driving,

Charlie and Me is written by dog lover and staff writer Annette Joyce, and focuses on the joys and perils of living with her rambunctious 85-pound black Labrador retriever, Charlie.

Oak Ridge Animal Hospital We’re your pet’s family doctors! A full-service veterinary hospital serving the area since 1989

Drive-through for food & medicine New boarding facility including cat suites Complete medical, surgical & dental services, including digital radiography 3308-A Edgefield Road Greensboro

665-0002

Dr. Denise R. Sacks • Dr. Jessica Taylor

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

Let your pet stay while you’re away

Pet Adoptions DORA Dora is a darling 6-year, 8-month-old female hound mix that loves to explore and go on adventures. She still has lots of energy and enjoys going on walks and playing outside. Dora is spayed and ready to go home with you today.

FRANKLIN Franklin is a 3-year, 4-month-old male Shepherd mix with a big heart and a friendly personality. He loves going on jogs and spending time outdoors in the warm sun. Franklin is neutered, up-todate on vaccines, and ready to ﬁnd his new “furrever” home.

Visit www.adoptshelterpets.org to adopt these animals!

Spoil•Me•Rotten

ROI Roi is a precious 1-year-old male Terrier mix that enjoys running around outdoors and spending time with friends. He is very sweet to everyone he meets and has an all-around great personality! Roi is not currently neutered, but will be as part of his adoption fee.

Guilford County Animal Shelter 4525 West Wendover Ave., Greensboro Mon - Sat 12-6pm • Sun 1-5pm To check animals’ availability, call 297-5020 or visit www.adoptshelterpets.org

ANIMAL CARE, INC.

BELLE Belle came to Red Dog Farm with Orville & Wright when her owner could no longer care for them. We quickly discovered she was very pregnant and due any moment. Thanks to our quick acting volunteers, Belle had her babies (four females) safely about two hours later. Belle and the babies are doing well, and the babies are now old enough to be adopted. Full of energy and tons of cuteness, they squeak whenever you enter the room just to remind you that they would love a pat on the head or a carrot. Guinea pigs are social animals that do best with the companionship of another pig of the same gender. As such, Mom and the girls can be paired up for adoption.

PETSITTING IN YOUR HOME walks • play-dates • feeding medication • extra belly rubs

(336) 643-5242

Nancy Brooks, PSI Member

CELEBRATING 19 YEARS

We’ve used Spoil-MeRotten for the past 15 years. Knowing that someone is checking on our cats and our home while we are away is a great relief. The staff is reliable, dependable, caring, and they love our cats. Thanks for everything you do!

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

JASMINE AND ALADDIN

Visit www.reddogfarm.com to adopt these or other animals!

Jasmine and Aladdin (Paint and Arabian horses) are a bonded pair in their early-tomid-20s that came to us because their owners could not afford to care for them. They are thin, but should gain weight quickly. Jasmine seems to be somewhat of a “seeing eye horse” for Aladdin, who deﬁnitely has some vision issues. They are timid about being caught, but once haltered are very friendly. This pair is past their years of being ridden, and needs a retirement home. Because of their age, we will waive the adoption fee for Jasmine and Aladdin for the right home.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Proud to offer

laser surgery Full-service small animal hospital

King’s Crossing

Animal Hospital

mark your

calendar Submit your events online at

kingscrossinganimalhospital.com

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

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

Celebrating over 20 years of selling in the Triad

Bobbie Gardner C CRS/GRI/Relocation Specialist EcoBroker

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

Northwest

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

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

(336) 644-0802

Summerfield

Family Eye Care

7607 Hwy 68 North, Suite E, Oak Ridge

(336) 644-7606

Dr. Christy Byrd Dr. Sarah Barts

Click “community calendar” on the left-hand side FRIDAY, MARCH 7  Fundraiser Basketball Game | The Stokesdale Elementary teachers will take on the Stokesdale parents in a basketball fundraiser on March 7 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Northwest High School in Greensboro, 5240 NW School Rd. Enjoy door prizes, food and music. All proceeds will support the Stokesdale Elementary fourth grade Outer Banks trip. More info: nwsechrist@hotmail.com. SATURDAY, MARCH 8  Consignment Sale | Trinity Tots to Teens will have a consignment sale of gently used spring and summer children’s clothing on March 8 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Trinity Church of Greensboro, 5200 West Friendly Ave. More info: 299-9403 or trinitytotstoteens@gmail.com. TUESDAY, MARCH 11  Town Council Meeting | The Summerfield Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Summerfield Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Rd. For a meeting agenda, visit www.summerfieldgov.com. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12  Marine Corps League Detachment 1314 | The Marine Corps League Detachment 1314 will meet on March 12 at the ROADS building, 8428 Hwy. 158 in Stokesdale. Social hour is from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by a business meeting. More info: visit www.nwt1314.com. THURSDAY, MARCH 13  MAOR Meeting | The Merchants Association of Oak Ridge will have their monthly meeting on March 13 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Rd. More info: contact DeDe Cunningham, president, at 509-1923 or dede.cunningham@allentate.com.  Town Council Meeting | The Stokesdale Town Council meets the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Rd. For a meeting agenda, visit www.stokesdale.org. FRIDAY, MARCH 14  Children’s Consignment Sale | A children’s consignment sale will be held on March 14 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Summerfield United Methodist Church, 2334 Scalesville Rd. More info: call 643-8120 or email sumcplayschool@gmail.com.

7301 Summerfield Road Mon -Thu 9 - 5 • Fri 9 -1 Most insurances accepted

www.summerfieldfamilyeyecare.com

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

www.ANewDawnRealty.com

Dawn Stone Owner/Broker

Carlotta Lytton

, CPA, PC

Individual & Corporate Tax Returns Specializing in Payroll & Accounting for Small Businesses 7805 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale clyttoncpa@bellsouth.net

Westergaard Kennels

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

Open 7 days a week Climate controlled

DOG BOARDING

Make your reservations now for spring break & Easter! 5719 Bunch Rd, Oak Ridge • 643-5169 jingletail@mac.com • 25 years serving you

westbengoldens.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Indoor/outdoor private runs

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

L.A. Nails & Tan Oak Ridge

Oak Ridge Com

Specializing in natural-looking acrylic nails Pink & white • Overlay • Shellac polish • Manicure Deluxe spa pedicure • Airbrush and hand design Waxing • Mini-spa chair for children We now offer

A surprisingly uncommon experience in the heart of O

(336) 643-8030 Mon-Sat 9am-8pm Sunday Noon-6pm

Oak Ridge Physical Therapy celebrates 5 years!

products

1 convenient location in the Lowes Foods Shopping Center (beside Subwa 2 words motivate our staff - compassion and commitment 3 North Carolina licensed physical therapists (Andy, Doug and Jennifer) of focus – orthopaedic and sports physical therapy, industrial 4 areas rehabilitation and balance/vestibular therapy.

Every Monday 5-8pm Mondays with paying adult

11am-2pm & 6-9pm Mondays

OAK RIDGE:

5 YEARS in the profession of helping people return to their physical t h

2213 Oak Ridge Rd • 643-1570

$ $ off

offe s: e r neany i o h p t it x imi saslo ns to ffer e ervoa elirsd. Lw u ff g andocommunity membe c in r t a e ht

3793 Samet Dr • 882-9812

ook r Faceb y u o r e Answ e Da on of th Questi ree prizes! f and win

rc u afif h o

activities in a God-honoring, positive and progressive environment.

HIGH POINT:

Thank you to the patients, medical providers t ip oo yN rticp oan tp Ap ith an mceo r.u d wchoosing liby who have helped our business be successful Oak Ridge Not van per custo coupo Physical Therapy.

y ry r e v e v a aat rc www.jplooneys.com s t e.. Jennifer, Doug and Christine t e c u a i c i r – Andy, Carrie, Karyn, p i r s a e lp Ht b u b a e c t l r r i o f a Ha focrotm O OR r com OSB Cente 8 8•0 33 N R E O B E l S r 5 R a R te EN rCd n 66 0d u rc• 6-g Haircuts at a very $ 33in GREG l ein Rld m • a a Chg haircut n e i C d haircut N.i n 8 s s in gF Car 99 2 LET’S DO 2 off $ o 8 m 0 r 5 e l 2 • • 433 F ngC comfortable price. -7)2 0 22 022 44’s e esrs’is

KERNERSVILLE:

1022-J S. Main St • 992-1671

LUNCH!

-6 Crto • L o6w 33 ’s n eru ) G t o t ’s n e u t w G k Lox Oao to e E® 2 xt( N 05 m • o2m IDG oe C (N e 3 s 1 R n • E 9 G g -3)9 IDK dm ORA Roim -6 4638 AK eC Not valid with any offers. Limit Oother gk 03 6& 3 a d • i 5 ) R O 1 one coupon per customer. Valid only at 8 6 ak &s Oak Ridge Commons,O Cardinal Center 0 y 15w and Gunter’s Crossing locations. y(sH haircut (H w

Great Clips

2 14 for $

643-6801 Oak Ridge

offer expires:

expires 4/4/2014 Not valid with any other offers. Limit one coupon per customer. At participating salons.

Haircuts at a very comfortable price.

2off

offer expires: GREENSBORO Cardinal Center OAK RIDGE 2202 Fleming Rd • 336-665-0880 Oak Ridge Commons: Hwys 150 / 68 • 643-3991 Gunter’s Crossing • 5828 N. Church St. GREENSBORO GREENSBORO expires 4/4/2014 (Next to Lowe’s) • 336-644-7204 Cardinal Center 2202 Fleming Rd • 336-665-0880 Cardinal Center: 2202 Fleming Rd • 665-0880 Gunter’s Crossing • 5828 N. Church St. OAK RIDGE (Next to Lowe’s) • 336-644-7204 Gunter’s Crossing: 5828 N. Church St • 644-7204 Oak Ridge Commons • 2205 Oak Ridge Rd® OAK RIDGE Oak Ridge Commons • 2205 Oak Ridge Rd (Hwys 150 & 68) • 336-643-3991 (Hwys 150 & 68) • 336-643-3991

Bring a friend and enjoy 2 pasta dishes from our lunch menu, including salads, bread & drinks

1 .indd 29219 4 d _ o d r o our free app ns.bin e9 e2 rDownload G9 3_2 or1visit greatclips.com CP_5x3_Greensboro_42929.indd _5_x4 ro P C o b ens

Coupon valid Mon-Sat at Oak Ridge Commons location only. Expires 4/3/2014. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

$ 99 haircut Great Clips

Not valid with any other offers. Limit one coupon per customer. Valid only at Oak Ridge Commons, Cardinal Center and Gunter’s Crossing locations. 3/8/12 11:53 AM

e _Gr

5x3

CP_

Not valid with any other offers. Limit one coupon per customer. At participating salons.

CP_5x3_Greensboro_42929.indd 1

3/8/12 11:53 AM

mmons

Wash away the grime and bring back the shine!

SHOP • DINE • ENJOY

Oak Ridge, at the corner of NC Highways 68 and 150

Automatic touchless and soft wash Vacuum & shampoo bays

ay)

Matthew J. Olmsted, DDS MS

t u c r ai

Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics

Board certified | Complimentary exam | Financing available Insurance accepted | Braces & Invisalign for children & adults

es: Limit onaelons. s xpir er e er offerisc.ipating

t h y ot. At par . er osm

WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS

ers

(336) 441-7007 | Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center

www.OakRidgePT.com

880 St. rch 65-0 u 6 h 6 3 . C 28 N204 . t 8 S 5 h c• RdNovant Health Forsyth 44-7 idge 36-6 R k Pediatrics Oak Ridge Oa 205 91 d 2 R • e g 9 d s i 3 R n k o When it comes -643 336 12 3/8/

Pediatric care you can trust

2 3/8/1

11:53

M 3 A

11:5

Stephen Kearns, MD

Laurie MacDonald, MD

to your child’s care, you can trust our expert pediatricians. From prevention services to same-day sick visits, we’re here every step of the way.

336-644-0994 • nhforsythpediatricsoakridge.org 2205 Oak Ridge Rd. Oak Ridge

www.OlmstedOrthodontics.com

BUSINESS notes Welcome to our new advertiser! Please support the businesses and organizations which make our newspaper possible, and tell them you saw them here!

AWAKEN CHURCH “Sometimes we put God in a box and we’ve got to let Him out of that box,” says Jim Scott. As the pastor of Awaken Church, Scott is all about breaking out of that box. A former youth pastor at Cornerstone Baptist Church, Scott felt God’s calling to reach out to the community in a different way. With its mission of demonstrating God’s love, this new church emphasizes serving the local community in a very tangible way.

BITS and PIECES

New York Jets, Scott worked 10 years as a police officer. Wanting to work with children from a proactive perspective to have a more positive impact on their lives, he left the police force and joined the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He’s been a substitute teacher and an assistant football coach at Northwest High School for the last eight years. Awaken Church meets at Pearce Elementary on Pleasant Ridge Road in northwest Greensboro for worship service on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Small groups meet in individual homes Sunday evenings at 5 p.m. There’s also an interactive children’s ministry at both times. The youth meets on Wednesday nights and women’s Bible study is on Thursday nights. The church is in the process of developing a Saturday morning men’s discipleship program.

“We’ve got to get back to the basics of serving people,” says Scott. “Whatever we can do to reach people for Jesus, we’re going to do it.” After playing college football at Clemson University and professional football with the New York Giants and

See ad on page 23.

Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church A GOD-CENTERED WORSHIP COMMUNITY

Contemporary music Sundays at 8:45 | Traditional worship Sundays at 11:00

Find us at www.ORPC.org Be our guest at 2614 Oak Ridge Rd in Oak Ridge | (336) 643-3452

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

Photo courtesy of Summerfield Fire Department

Daniels receives Fire and Rescue Council award SUMMERFIELD – Summerfield Fire Department’s Jenna Daniels was awarded the Guilford County Fire and Rescue Council president’s award at the council’s annual banquet on Feb. 21. The banquet was attended by numerous Guilford County, Greensboro City and High Point fire department volunteers and staff members, as well as county commissioners and representatives of the Guilford County Emergency Services, EMS and sheriff’s department. Daniels received the award because of her work in leading a group of people to come up with effective ways to use a $32,000 Fire Recruitment and Retention grant from FEMA to help the fire departments within the county attract new volunteers. The group implemented the following ideas: develop a countywide website, www.guilfordfireandrescue.com; produce a commercial to be shown in select movie theaters and on WFMY 2; create a banner to be displayed at county

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

high schools during the football season; and place ads in select high school booster programs. “All the programs listed above were part of Jenna’s vision and her ideas made this work,” said Summerfield Fire Chief Chris Johnson. “Her hard work in getting the word out throughout the county is helping every department get new volunteers. She spent time working with the different vendors and she did so herself with very little guidance.” Johnson added that Daniels’ heart is in the fire department and she is somebody that he can trust to “do the right thing.” “She was very deserving of the award and has made a difference to the fire service. She does an amazing job and the Summerfield Fire District is lucky to have her,” Johnson said. Daniels grew up in Summerfield and has been active with the fire department for most of her life.

Photo by Laura Pullins/NWO

Girl Scouts continue to support our troops COLFAX – In its fourth year, Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont (GSCP2P) is continuing its councilwide service project, Operation Sweet Treat, to send Girl Scout cookies to military servicemen and women. With support from the public, as well as businesses, churches and civic organizations, GSCP2P plans to collect 26,000 packages of cookies and 1,000 letters of encouragement to send in care packages to troops serving in the United States and overseas. In the past three years of the service project, 85,653 boxes of cookies and thousands of letters have been collected and shared. Operation Sweet Treat is a great way for the community to support Girl Scouts while sending a “taste of home” to American soldiers. GSCP2P works in conjunction with NCPacks4Patriots to ensure every package sold for Operation

Sweet Treat makes it to a current U.S. military member or veteran. Girl Scouts who participate in the service project earn a special patch. Girl Scout cookies are $4 a box or $48 per case and will be available through March 9. Customers can buy a box for Operation Sweet Treat at any cookie booth location. Donations can also be made online to the Operation Sweet Treat campaign at www. girlscoutsp2p.org. For more information, call (800) 672-2148.

Oak Ridge Elementary PTO held a spaghetti dinner on Feb. 27 to raise funds for the school’s safety and security project. L to R, ﬁrst grade teacher Carol Boggess, parent volunteer John Cavey, assistant teachers Andrea Spangler and Donna Helgesen served up a delicious meal for all who came through their service line. For more photos from this event, visit www.facebook.com/northwestobserver.

NORTHERN PICKS

6822 Trevor Dr • Hard-to-find new construction w/basement. Built by R&K w/master & 2nd BR on main. Located in Hartman Farm. $429,900

5800 Mashoes Ct • Stunning historic replica in Henson Farms. Oversized porches, flexible foor plan. Custom all the way! Offered at $615,000

6806 Trace Dr • New Don Mills home w/lots of outdoor living space. 4BR/3.5BA w/master suite on main, plus keeping room off kitchen. $399,000

7521 Henson Forest Dr • Privacy within Henson Forest n’hood! Surrounded by nature. Impeccable amenities, immaculate condition. $569,000

ANN POWELL (336) 327-3473

NANCY HESS

(336) 215-1820

Photo by Laura Pullins/NWO

Children came dressed in their ﬂannel and slippers on Feb. 28 as part of Pajama Theme Day at Stokesdale Elementary. Students and teachers paid $1 to wear their PJs for the day, with all proceeds beneﬁtting the American Red Cross. The Stokesdale Elementary Student Council offers theme day fundraisers once a month; last month’s theme was Hat Day and the school raised over $400.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

Oak Oak Ridge Ridge Custodial staff members Firemen’s Firemen’s Oak Ridge Firemen’s

“OldStyle Style”” BBQ BBQ “Old Style” “Old BBQ

- Y’all come on and enjoy! - Y’all come onout outand andenjoy! enjoy!- - - Y’all come on Saturday,October October27, 27,2007 2007 Saturday, SATURDAY, MARCH

Rain oror Shine atatthe Station Rd. Rain or Shine atthe the Stationon LinvilleRd. Rd. Rain Shine Station ononLinville Linville

Pounds Available///$8 $8per perpound pound Pounds Available $8 per pound Pounds Available 9 a.m. untilsold soldout out(slaw (slaw available) 9 9a.m. until sold out (slaw &rolls rolls available) a.m. until && rolls available) Pre-order poundsatatat Pre-order pounds Pre-order pounds www.oakridgencfire.com BBQ Order Form. www.oakridgencfire.com BBQ www.oakridgencfire.com BBQOrder OrderForm. Form.

CanEat Eat& &Take TakeOuts Outs AllAllU UCan All4 U4 Can Eat &sold Take p.m.until untilsold outOuts p.m. out 4 p.m. until sold out perplate plate $8$8per $8 per plate Seniors& & $5$5forforSeniors $6 for Seniors & KidsUnder Under1212 Kids (Includes BBQ, slaw, Kids Under (Includes BBQ,12 slaw, baked beans, rolls,

baked beans, (Includes BBQ, rolls, slaw, banana pudding banana pudding baked beans, and drink!)rolls, and drink!) banana pudding and drink!)

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

are NWHS standouts by CAROLINE TANEY

one. He knows a lot about basketball and we always talk about the games NW GREENSBORO – Soon after the and the team,” says senior Nick Yocum, lunch bell rings at Northwest Guilford a member of the men’s varsity basketHigh School, students flood into the cafball team. eteria. As what appears to be a normal Vasses joined the school’s custodial lunch period gets underway, two men staff three years ago. In addition to stand out. servicing classrooms, bathrooms and the teacher’s lounge, he takes extra measures to ensure students understand the importance of recycling. “Recycling is very important for the future, and Guilford County requires that citizens recycle,” Vasses says. He has been known to hunt down students who leave trash at tables or Photo by Caroline Taney/NWO mistakenly place Don Vasses (left) stands with Leroy Prather Jr. in the cafeteria recycling in the of Northwest High School. Spending time with the students is trash cans. the highlight of their day, both men say. Both men agree that being in the cafeteria, surLeroy Prather Jr. makes his rounds, rounded by kids, is the best part of their stopping at several tables to discuss day. last night’s game with the players. Don Vasses chases down a student and hands “Leroy and Don go above and beyond him back a water bottle thrown into the at their jobs,” NWHS Principal Ralph Kitley trash rather than the recycling. Both men states. “Not only do they keep our school are part of Northwest’s custodial staff. clean and safe, but their value is found in Prather has worked at Northwest the personal interactions they have with for eight years. In addition to being the the students.” “handy man” around the school camAs a senior at Northwest, there will be pus, he is responsible for “waking up the a lot of things I remember about my four school,” and is the first person to arrive at years spent here. Seeing the enthusiasm Northwest early each morning. Leroy and Don have every single day will Well known by nearly every athlete at be one of them, and something I will truly Northwest, Prather says his love for sports miss. comes from the 18 years he spent coaching little league football and basketball. Caroline Taney is a Northwest “Leroy is always ready to have a Observer student writer at Northwest conversation about anything with anyGuilford High School.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Spring 2014 edition

Coming

April 11 Your home, your community  History and humor of life in northwest Guilford County  Local real estate news  Housing trends  Tackling home projects – and more

Want to advertise in this publication? Contact us at (336) 644-7035 ext. 10 or advertising@nwobserver.com

Laura Troeger

Annette Joyce

associate publisher

advertising manager

10,500 copies directly mailed to northwest-area homes

4,500 more copies distributed for free pickup in the northwest area online 24/7 at nwobserver.com

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

NORTHERN

Baseball

CHARLIE BURGUIERES, senior

Hometown: Fairfax, Va. Toughest class: Physics Extracurricular activities: Travel baseball Favorite food: Crab legs Favorite band: Red Hot Chili Peppers Favorite movie: “Step Brothers” Siblings: One sister Best vacation: Tanzania Years lived in Northern area: 10

Dream job: President Fun fact: My uncle played in the 1985 World Series. Nickname: “C-Money” Position on team: Shortstop / motivator Pre-game superstitions: Never, ever touch the foul lines. Coach Landon Kimrey’s comments: “Charlie is a very good middle infielder who began his junior year at second base and worked his way into the shortstop position mid-year. He has a knack for giving us very good at-bats and keeps things light with his sense of humor. He will certainly fill a leadership role for the team this year, and will continue his playing career at Coker College in Hartsville, S.C.”

Warm temperatures are on the way. Don’t panic! Call Velocity to make sure your system is ready

VELOCITY Air, Inc. Heating & Air Conditioning Commercial & Residential

NORTHERN

Softball

HALEIGH EPPERSON, senior Hometown: Summerfield Toughest class: Advanced Functions and Modeling (math) Extracurricular activities: Showcase softball, Young Life, and Embracing Leadership & Diversity through Athletics (ELDA) Favorite food: Crab legs Favorite band: Luke Bryan Favorite movie: “Lone Survivor” Siblings: One younger brother, Daniel

your QUESTIONS

Best vacation: Spring break in Florida Years lived in Northern area: all my life Dream job: Physical therapist Interesting fact about yourself: I’m a cancer survivor. Nickname: “Epp” Position on the team: Shortstop and captain Pre-game superstitions: I always wear Nike socks under my softball socks, a lucky penny in my left cleat, a sweat band on my right arm, and my cross necklace. Coach Russ Dorrell’s comments: “Haleigh is an exceptional and dedicated softball player, who is always leading the way. She has been invaluable to the team and me as a coach.”

...continued from p. 5

merchandise (individuals pay $25 and commercial vendors pay $50). Walnut Cove has a policy that all vendor fees will be refunded if the holiday parade is cancelled. Kernersville’s holiday parade was scheduled for Dec. 8. Because temperatures on that day dipped into the low 30s and sleet and ice were predicted, the parade was cancelled and it was not rescheduled. Mary Kay Csanyi, administrative

GRANITE SALE

assistant for the Kernersville Chamber of Commerce, said the organization charges an entry fee for individuals and businesses. Nonprofits such as churches and schools participate for free. The chamber did not volunteer to give refunds when the parade was cancelled, but did give refunds upon request. “If someone asked, we gave them a refund or the choice to transfer their fee to next year’s parade,” says Csanyi. Only a few people requested a refund.

Huge inventory of

discounted granite starting at

Sales, Service & Installation • 24-Hour Emergency Service • Service Agreements Duct Testing • Free Estimates • All Work Guaranteed • Licensed, Bonded & Insured WE OFFER FINANCING

(336) 643-8100 Stokesdale, NC

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

Greensboro: 312 Dougherty St • 574-2755 Winston-Salem: 1079 Hanes Mall Blvd • 765-2977

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

/sq. ft.

CRIME / INCIDENT report

A new church

The District 1 Sheriff’s Office has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest Guilford County.

for a new day

THEFT

DRUGS/ALCOHOL

FEB. 24 | The owner of a business on Oak Ridge Road in Oak Ridge reported an unknown person stole a 10 karat diamond from a jewelry box located inside a refrigerator. The loss is estimated at $13,000.

FEB. 25 | A traffic stop on NC 68 in Stokesdale resulted in charges for misdemeanor possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

MARCH 2 | A resident of Windcrest Drive in Summerfield reported an unknown person stole a pistol from the home. The loss is estimated at $400.

MARCH 1 | Officers charged a resident of Belews Creek Road in Stokesdale with misdemeanor marijuana charges after making the discovery while there on another matter.

BREAKING & ENTERING

MARCH 2 | Officers arrested and charged a driver on Auburnwood Drive in Summerfield with DWI.

FEB. 24 | A resident of Dubach Road in Summerfied reported someone stole tools from her outbuilding. FEB. 26 | A resident of Scalesville Road in Summerfield reported an unknown suspect broke into two vehicles at his residence and stole two wallets and a purse with a combined value of $95. FEB. 28 | A resident of Birdsong Court in Summerfield reported someone entered her unlocked vehicle sometime between Feb. 25-26 and stole her wallet, cash, several gift cards and movie tickets with a total value of $713. FEB. 28 | A resident of Invershield Court in Oak Ridge reported someone unlawfully entered his vehicle and stole a pistol valued at about $575.

MARCH 1 | A traffic stop on US 158 in Stokesdale resulted in a DWI arrest.

Join us for our official launch

Sunday, March 9 @ 10:30 am Worship services are held at Pearce Elementary in northwest Greensboro 2006 Pleasant Ridge Rd, Greensboro

FRAUD FEB. 26 | A customer of the Last Minute Mart on Haw River Road in Stokesdale reported fraud by a known person. FEB. 27 | A resident of Wooden Rail Lane in Summerfield reported an unknown person used his social security number.

District 1 Sheriff’s Office 7506 Summerfield Road (336) 641-2300 • Monday - Friday www.guilfordcountysheriff.com

Capt. Yousef Sansour

Check out page 3 in this issue to read about a popular scam that is resurfacing

My wife, Kim, and I welcome you to join us and discover a contemporary church with traditional values. Senior Pastor Jim Scott

(336) 312-0917 jim.scott@awaken-church.org

www.awaken-church.org

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

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

Myths surround governor’s response to Duke Energy Audrey Dentith’s letter to the editor about the Duke coal ash spill is just another thinly veiled partisan attack on Gov. Pat McCrory.

office. Besides the obvious politically motivated timing of these actions, this also highlights that these problems necessarily occurred before McCrory was governor.

A few facts. Dentith perpetuates the myth that the McCrory administration stymied the efforts of private groups to sue Duke. What actually happened is that the state filed its own lawsuits against Duke instead – as is their right under the Clean Water Act. These private citizens were subsequently given the right to intervene in the state’s lawsuits as full parties in August of last year. A settlement proposal was made by the state in October. However, as a result of the Dan River spill, the state has now revoked that proposal.

The fact is that the McCrory administration is the first in North Carolina history to sue Duke – and this was before the spill. Just this week, the state issued separate violation notices against Duke for the Dan River spill.

It is also no coincidence that these efforts by private groups were initiated in January of 2013, just as McCrory took

long before McCrory became governor. Yet there appears to be a concerted strategy to convince North Carolina voters on this issue and others that history began in 2013 and that the Dan River spill is Pat McCrory’s fault because of his prior relationship with Duke. But the

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

Share your thoughts in

40 words

or less

The second unfounded allegation is that federal prosecutors believe people in the McCrory administration took bribes from Duke. Again, there is no evidence that federal prosecutors believe this or have evidence of this. Further, the subpoenas issued by the federal government include the records of state employees dating back to the Perdue administration.

online: nwobserver.com

The spill did occur on McCrory’s watch, but the issues with Duke occurred

 Terry at BCU Computers in Summerfield for fixing my two computers. Not

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

GRINS to...

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

record shows that Duke gave substantial sums of money to both Democrats and Republicans. So far, McCrory has done more to address the issue than any of his predecessors. Samuel Spagnola, OAK RIDGE

only is he reasonable, he explains what he did and how to prevent future problems.  Stokesdale 13-18 girls team for an undefeated season and tournament championship.  Oak Ridge basketball referees of the 5- to 6-year-old teams for donating your Saturday mornings. You made it fun for the kids, encouraged them each week and were always helping them learn the game!  The Cookout in Kernersville for playing Christian music. The world needs more places like this!  Jody and Angie Akers for organizing a great basketball program for the Stokesdale Parks and Recreation Association.  Melissa Stallings and all the volun-

Quality Coverage

from the most trusted health insurer in North Carolina1 Call me for information on:

1715 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge (336) 643-7684 Ryan Kauffman | Mike Byrd | Collins Fulcher

www.oakridgecbc.org

Authorized Agency:

• Individual Health Plans • Health Savings Accounts (HSA) • Medicare Supplement Insurance • Dental Plans for Individuals • Dental Plans for Seniors

TRIAD INSURANCE (336) 790-5858

1941 New Garden Road, Greensboro FrederickPolls, LLC, April 2011. An independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

U2082l, 3/13

teers at Oak Ridge Elementary who helped with the spaghetti dinner on Feb. 27. It was an impressive display of coordination and planning! Melissa is a fabulous leader whose dedication to ORE is greatly appreciated!  Novant Health Northwest Family Medicine. When the four of us came down with the flu, they were able to see us all on the same day, prescribe medicine and get us back on the road to feeling better.  All Republican heads that will explode when Hillary gets elected.  The same kind man who helped a young girl on Bunch Road three weeks ago for helping me last week by driving ahead of me into a herd of deer on Scalesville Road. Thanks for saving my new car!

GRIPES to...

100% customer satisfaction

We offer one guarantee:

 Northern High School for an unorganized and poorly orchestrated curriculum night. It was difficult and

confusing as a parent of a rising freshman to determine what we were to do. It would have been nice to have had better signs, a printed sheet for guidance, etc.

Southern States! No trees should be topped and left to die of embarrassment (crape myrtles either).

 The player on one of Summerfield’s girls basketball teams who was disrespectful to other players, refs and coaches. Didn’t your parents teach you respect?

 People in Stokesdale who junk up their property and who litter all over town! You are making Stokesdale look really trashy. Take some pride in your property and the town and clean it up!

 The woman at Bur-Mil Park who thought she could save a parking spot for a friend on a busy, beautiful Sunday. The spot belongs to the person who arrives first.  President Obama for his stance on Ukraine. Once again, Putin has made a fool of him.  Tree trimmers who call themselves professionals but aren’t. River Birches aren’t supposed to be topped – what a job you did on those across from

 The person who griped last week about their dog waking them up at night.

 Makers of the Potato Express. My potatoes took just over eight minutes to bake in the microwave instead of the recommended four. Be wary when next you decide to give your customers the ole riggamaroo. #wearewitness  NCDOT for plowing a street that had already been cleared by our own neighbors, and carelessly cutting into more than two feet of everyone’s front yards.

TIRES

Piedmont Truck Tire &

FREE

Automotive Center

FOR LIFE OF TIRES

312 S Regional Rd, Greensboro

10 locations open M-F 7:30-5:30 Emergency roadside service 24/7/365 Shuttle service within 8 miles

INSTANT SAVINGS

(336) 668-0091

ROTATIONS

on an Oil and Filter Change when you have a ProSelect Air Filter AND Cabin Air Filter installed.*

Dan Rice President

Mitch Glover

VP/GM of Greensboro

Jim Rice VP of Sales

Offer good March 1 – 31, 2014, at Regional Road location. *Instant rebate will be subtracted from your invoice at the time of service. $5 or $10 Instant Rebate will be subtracted if only one of the two filters is replaced.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

 EMPLOYMENT

 SAVE THE DATE

HIGHWAYS & SKYWAYS – please see display ad below.

HOT DOG FUNDRAISER for One Child’s Voice, Lowes Foods in Oak Ridge, Sat., March 8, 11am-4pm. (336) 215-7759.

Hiring? We can help! Place your employment classiﬁed ad online at www.nwobserver.com.

 SAVE THE DATE KIDS CONSIGNMENT SALE, Mt. Pisgah Church, corner of Pisgah Church Rd. and Battleground, Friday, March 7, 9am-7pm & Saturday, March 8, 8am-1pm (many items 50% off Sat.) Clothes, toys & much more.

Place online at

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

INDEX Employment ................................ 26 Save the Date ............................. 26 Home Services ....................... 26-28 Misc. Services......................... 28-29 Misc. for Sale .............................. 29 Misc. Wanted ............................. 29 Pets/Animals & Services ............... 29 Real Estate .................................. 29

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

Great deals! OPEN HOUSE, Sat., March 8, 9am-1pm, Melda’s Hair Design, Summerﬁeld. Meet Melda’s staff. Specials, give-aways, demonstrations and other vendors, including Jennifer Story with Stella & Dot Jewelry and Denise Cummings, commercial interior designer. Light refreshments & snacks. Melda, owner/hair stylist; Kay, nail tech; and Laura, hair stylist, nail tech & skin care specialist (sugar waxing, facials). Appointments, 643-7799. PROSE & POETRY WRITERS’ WORKSHOP, featuring Joe Mills, Sat., March 8, 1-4pm, GSO Cultural Center. Visit www. triadwriters.org for more info.

CHILI COOK-OFF and wings competition, Sunday, March 9, Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, 2640 Oak Ridge Road. Chili & wings entries ($5/each) arrive at 5pm, judging at 5:30pm, dinner at 6pm. Baked goods auction & children’s activities. The community is invited to compete or just join us for dinner – $5/person, $20/family max. All proceeds beneﬁt ORPC youth mission & summer camp trips. Call 643-3452 for more info. MID-WEEK LENTEN SERVICES, every Wednesday in Lent (March 12, 19, 26, April 2 & 9), 6pm dinner, 6:45pm prayer service, Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, 2614 Oak Ridge Road. Come join us – all are welcome! KIDS CONSIGNMENT SALE, Friday, March 14, 9am-8pm & Saturday, March 15, 8am-1pm (some items 50% off on Saturday), St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 2715 Horse Pen Creek Road, Greensboro, NC 27410, www.saintpaulskidssale.com. Oak Ridge Firemen’s “OLD STYLE” BBQ, Saturday, March 15, Linville Road ﬁre station. Pick up or dine in. See display ad on page 20 for more details.

NOW HIRING

We are looking for teams to run 4 - 6 days per week making an average of $1,000 - $1,200 per week plus monthly safety bonus, stop pay and exceptional benefit coverage.

TEAM MILEAGE PAY • $0.55 per mile (loaded or empty) based upon PCMiler practical miles beginning and ending at our facility on trips of less than 700 miles • $0.50 per mile (loaded or empty) based upon PCMiler practical miles beginning and ending at our facility on trips over 700 miles • Increase of $0.02/mile after 2 years of service HEALTH BENEFIT PACKAGE • Employee Medical Coverage – 75% paid by Company after 90 days employment • Employee Dental & Vision Coverage – 100% paid by Company after 90 days employment

REQUIREMENTS CDL-A, minimum 2 years driving experience, no DUI/drug convictions, safe driving record and a willingness to work honestly and in turn be treated fairly.

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

609-0677.

www.castleworkswindowcleaning.com. Professional custom cleaning for home & office

, in d i a M e m o H

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

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

CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING, gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. www.windowcleaningnc.com. 399-3995. MARIA’S CLEANING SERVICE. Free estimates, guaranteed service. 432-4483. FREE PICK-UP of mowers, batteries, AC’s, appliances, grills, etc. 689-4167. MAID-2-SHINE. Serving NW area for 10 years. Homes, ofﬁces, move in/out. Detail oriented, prof, bonded, exc. ref. 338-0223. ANA’S HOUSECLEANING. Good references, free est., 25 years exp. 309-0747.

The Northwest Observer Keeping you connected for 17 years Want to reach our readers? Call 644-7035 for advertising info.

DECORATING EXPERIENCED INTERIOR DECORATOR & personal furniture shopper will help you To apply, call Derreck Gaye, Terminal Manager (336) 668-3433

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

with style, color, shopping & furniture placement. E-mail appeninc@gmail.com or call Ann Appenzeller, (336) 314-1411.

 HOME SERVICES

FLOORING

GUTTERS / WINDOWS / SIDING

AREA STUMP DUMP. Yard waste, con-

BRAD’S BOBCAT. Landscaping, driveways,

CARPET REPAIRS & RESTRETCHING

patios, sidewalks, concrete work. 362-3647.

LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS

CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

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

crete, etc. Fill dirt available. 602-5820.

GREENERTIMES SMALL ENGINE Sales & service center. 9428 NC 65, Stokesdale. (336) 312-3844 mobile or (336) 548-9286 ofﬁce.

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

Licensed & insured. 643-6500.

OLD SCHOOL Licensed & Insured

Lisa & Jerry Potkay, Stokesdale

(336) 669-7252

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

Bathroom Remodeler | Additions | Decks

Professional, Honest, Reliable

HOME REPAIR, LLC

Home Improvement & Repairs

HOUSE & YARD HOME MAINTENANCE “Anything to improve your home and property.” Jeff Ziglar, 456-9992 or 643-9609. ALL ABOUT THE HOUSE. General home repair. Will take the lead on, or assist you with your home projects. 644-8710 / 708-0522.

Let us introduce you to our readers! Tell them about your business. Call Laura for more information. (336) 644-7035, ext. 10.

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

13-year anniversary special. We will beat your current written price by 15% – guaranteed! Call (336) 601-3796. ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call 382-9875. GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree prun-

LAWN CARE / LANDSCAPING

Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup,

A PLUS LANDSCAPING & Maintenance. We do it all, and now we are taking new fullmaintenance contracts with $100 off ﬁrst month! Offer ends April 4, 2014. $25 off each referral! Call today (336) 285-8172.

more. Free estimates. Licensed & insured.

ONE GUY & A MACHINE LAWN CARE and hardscaping. Maintenance, design, paver patios, block walls, hedges trimmed, beds re-edged, pine needles, mulch, pressure washing, chemical applications, aerating. Licensed & insured. Free est. Call 382-4767. www.oneguyandamachine.com. BUZZ CUTS LAWN & LANDSCAPE INC. Buzzer-beater specials! Pine needles, weed control, fertilization & mowing. Annual service agreement discount! Buzz, 509-6464.

workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, 643-9332. CarolinaStumpAndTreeServiceNC.com.

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

AQUA SYSTEMS IRRIGATION. Quality irrigation systems. NC Licensed Contractor. We service all systems. Free est. 644-1174.

Complete tree service, $1 million liability,

D & D LANDSCAPING & IRRIGATION Complete landscaping services. Retaining walls & patios. Member BBB. NC licensed irrigation contractor. 312-2706.

ing, complete lawn maintenance. 655-6490. ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE shrub and tree pruning. Bobcat work and Call Joe at 643-9157. TLC LAWN CARE Lawn mowing, fertilization and weed control. General cleanup. Affordable all-season lawn maintenance. (336) 681-0097.

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

Call Tony - office (336) 215-4531 MULCH, single-ground, $10 per 3-yard scoop. Tandem load delivered, $100 (about 10 yards). Oak Ridge area, 803-2195.

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

STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free

AFFORDABLE LANDSCAPING Mowing, irrigation installation, spring cleanup, aeration, overseeding, pre-emergent. Flower bed restoration & design. Call J. Gibson Landscaping. American owned & operated. (336) 419-7236.

24-hr. emergency svc. OR, NC. 643-1119.

est. Locally owned and operated. Lic/ins. 30 yrs. exp. Bucket truck & chipper, total cleanup.

WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Complete lawn care & landscaping. NC lic. irrigation contractor.

20 years exp.

Hardscaping,

fertilization & weed control. 399-7764.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Get. Be. Stay. Connected.

facebook.com/NorthwestObserver

MASONRY SOUTHERN

STYLE

CONCRETE

and

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

MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS 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.

...continued on p. 28 MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

 HOME SERVICES

Furniture Kare Co.

20 years experience in repair & restoration

 HOME SERVICES

ON-TARGET

PAINTING & DRYWALL STILL PERFECTION PAINTING Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services.

Scott

Specializing in chair repairs

Still, 462-3683 or stillperfectionpainting.com.

(336) 656-4836 furniture-kare36@triad.rr.com

PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 32

LOCAL PICKUP & DELIVERY • FREE ESTIMATES

www.furniturekare.com JUNK REMOVAL – appliances, batteries, mowers, cars, electronics, trash removal, etc. Call about free junk removal, 453-8644.

Need some help? Email classiﬁeds@nwobserver.com

years exp. Sheetrock repair. Call Brad Rogers for free estimate. Local 314-3186.

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

(336) 931-0600

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

Triad Garage Doors

SALES, SERVICE & INSTALLATIONS (336) 501-6025 www.triadgaragedoors.com LiftMaster, Amarr, and all other brands

PLUMBING BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic/Ins. Call Mark for savings. 337-7924.

Free estimates • Insured • 10 years experience

The Northwest Observer

JDB PLUMBING. Repair, remodel, well pump. Lic/Ins. Accepts all major credit cards. Ofﬁce 656-0019, cell 382-6905.

13,000 copies every week! Direct-mailed to every mailbox with an Oak Ridge, Summerﬁeld and Stokesdale address, and available for pick-up at 70+ area businesses.

 HOME SERVICES

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

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

Tc. GicEes, In ARerv -Tction S OCoNnstru

• Refinishing and repair • Antique restoration • In-home services

 HOME SERVICES

30 yrs exp • Workmanship guarantee • Insurance specialists

(336) 644-1580

FREE Estimates Insured & Dependable

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

What’s going on around town? Find us on facebook for updates! facebook.com/northwestobserver 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. (336) 399-4894, tripp@ trippsmithconstruction.com.

TM Construction Services, INC.

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Licensed & Insured

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

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

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

 MISC. SERVICES MELDA’S HAIR DESIGNS welcomes Laura Martinez (bilingual). Specializes in all beauty services: hair, facials, sugar waxing, manis & pedis. Call for appointment, 643-7799 or 552-0796. Come to our Open House, Sat., March 8, 10am-1pm. CORPORATE & PERSONAL TAX PREP, federal and state tax mediation, IRS/DOR, full accounting and payroll services, 37 years exp. Carolina Bookkeeping, 600 Washington St., Eden NC. (336) 627-8969.

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION RESTORATION SPECIALISTS DELIVERING AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE

Cabinet Refacing & Enhancement

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

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

336/404-1471 www.fmbyjh.com

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens & baths, rotted wood, decks, siding, windows, fall rooﬁng specialist. Sr. discounts, 35 years exp. 362-6343. JLB REMODELING, INC. NC GC license #69997. Free estimates. Insured. Custom remodeling & additions. Call 681-2902 or www.jlbremodeling.com.

NC General Contractor License #72797

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

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

NEW Cargo Van Available Rent per day or week In-town only Locally owned & operated We carry moving & shipping supplies

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

 MISC. SERVICES

 MISC. WANTED

 REAL ESTATE

FREE PICKUP of appliances, batteries, junk mowers, air conditioners, grills, electri-

WILL PAY CASH for riding lawn mower needing repair or free removal if unwanted. Also free pick-up of appliances, batteries, air conditioners, grills, metal items, computers, gas & electrical items. 689-4167.

HOMES FOR SALE

cal items, metal items, etc. 689-4167. COMPUTER REPAIRS $99. Used computers, website design. Info at ITBASICS.COM – (336) 643-0068. Inside Mailboxes & More, Oak Ridge Commons.

 MISC. FOR SALE NEW SHOP IN MADISON Vintage, antiques & more! 114 E. Murphy Street. Stop in to see our latest finds for your home. Greensboro quality with Madison prices. PIANO, Henry A. Miller, about 1950 style, piano teacher owned, $275 cash. (336) 202-3912. FABULOUS FINDS Accepting spring/summer ladies’ clothing & accessories on consignment, along with furniture and home décor. March Mania Special – will waive $5 annual fee for new or existing consignors, plus earn more (50/50 split!). 112/114 S. Main Street, downtown Kernersville. (336) 992-4550, fabulousfindsconsignments.com. BOOK & RECORD SALE, March 6-9, Golden Antiques, 4537 Hwy. 220, Summerfield. Monday-Sat., 10-6; Sunday, 12-6. Over 3,000 titles, all genres. Great bargains! 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.

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

 PET / ANIMAL SERVICES ANIMALS AVAILABLE FREE TO LOVING HOME: 2.5-year-old female Beagle. Copper is spayed, microchipped, housebroken and has lots of love to share! She gets along with other dogs and cats and all children except our 4-yearold grandson. Please contact me: (336) 580-9004 or email me, barbwilliams48@ gmail.com.

NANCY HESS, Realtor ® (336) 215-1820

GIL VAUGHAN

Realtor ® /Broker • (336) 337-4780

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

 REAL ESTATE HOME FOR RENT NEW DUPLEX, 2BR, 2BA, between Kernersville & Colfax. $700/mo. (336) 706-1887.

LAND FOR SALE

SEASONED FIREWOOD, delivered &

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Pick up or delivery. 253-7615, 643-5744.

The ultimate home! One-of-a-kind impressive residence in desirable community. Every room boasts a WOW factor. Entertaining is a dream both inside and out. Each space created with impeccable detail. Offered now for $999,000.

8404 Oak Meadow Drive Unbelievable find! Lake-front home w/Luxurious 3-room Master Suite in NWHS District & partial walkout preplumbed unf’d basement. Beautifully landscaped for low maintenance. Spend your time enjoying this all-brick & immaculate 3BR / 2.5BA / 3-car gem. Multilevel deck overlooks Pope Lake (fish incl’d). $364,900

SPOIL-ME-ROTTEN ANIMAL CARE

FIREWOOD

FIREWOOD, seasoned hardwood, no pine.

6087 Mountain Brook Road

PET SITTING & BOARDING

16.2 ACRES FOR SALE off Strawberry Road, $18,000/acre. Will not sub-divide. (336) 362-0039.

stacked. 1/2 cord, $80. Call 686-6373.

NEW LISTING

VANGUARD REAL ESTATE OPTIONS, LLC. No-fee and low-fee listings. Mike Blackwelder, (336) 644-1476.

6013 Beckenham Way, Oak Ridge Immaculate home w/ 4 spacious BR, 3BA & powder room. ML master suite w/sitting room. All hardwoods & ceramic tile. Beautiful, open floor plan & living areas perfect for entertaining. Great outdoor living area with fenced back yard. 1.02-acre lot in serene Staffordshire Estates. No HOA dues. $579,000

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

Bobbie Gardner CRS/GRI/ EcoBroker Relocation Specialist

(336) 382-5939 allentate.com/bobbiegardner

Place your real estate showcase today

(336) 644-7035, ext. 10

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

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

STRUTTING THEIR STUFF

...continued from 12

LOCO NUTS ...continued from p. 1

In the past, there’s been a dog in a red evening gown that danced with her formally-clad owner. Others showed up in grass skirts leading their Hawaiian dressed owners, in workout gear, dressed up as cowboys – and one dressed as a bottle of Elmer’s glue. Graham expects this year’s models to be even more over the top. The event is emceed by Graham and Emily Byrd of WGHP. While the dogs have their time on the catwalk, Graham and Byrd take the opportunity to tell each dog’s story and how it found its forever home. As the show winds down, Red Dog Farm brings out some of its dogs that are still waiting for adoption. “Last year my mom and stepdad came to the show and adopted one of the dogs,” says Graham. “They’re go-

ing to be modeling this year.” Red Dog Farm counts on Dogs on the Catwalk to bring in the majority of funds it needs to function. While it relies on foster families to take care of its animals until a permanent home is found, the organization pays for all veterinarian expenses and supplies. •••••

want to go? Dogs on the Catwalk will be held Saturday, March 15, beginning at 7 p.m. at Triad Stage in downtown Greensboro. General admission tickets are $35 for adults and $25 for children. Front row seats are $50. To purchase tickets, visit reddogfarm.com or call the Triad Stage box office at 272-0160.

Getting back

to our faith! Meet our new pastor, Danny Hemric

Earl Brewer

Gospel Piano Legend

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

As the winter session came to a close on March 6, praises for the volunteers and the program were passed along from parents of Loco Nuts participants. “Our daughter is coo-coo for Loco Nuts,” says Laura McCollum, parent of a Loco Nuts participant. “This program gives her the opportunity to experience an extra-curricular activity that is usually reserved for the older kids.” To reinforce McCollum’s comment, Pearce Elementary is the only school in Guilford County to offer a program like this for the primary grades.

With all the praise for Loco Nuts, many wish the program lasted longer than six weeks per session. Without more volunteers, however, organizers say it isn’t feasible to extend it. “With everything teachers need to attend to throughout the week, unfortunately there wasn’t enough time to hold the class more than once a week (or for more than six weeks),” Hunt says. The six-week program costs participants $15, and included in that fee is a bright orange Loco Nuts T-shirt. Scholarships are available based on need, and as long as there’s an open spot in the program, no child is turned away. The next session will begin in the fall. It is limited to the first 24 children registered, as organizers of the program believe quality learning is more important than the number of children enrolled.

Several other parents shared excitement about learning new things from their children as well – lessons all the more special because they came from their child.

“I cannot stress enough how important a class like this is for our children,” says Hunt. “With all the everyday stress and challenges and the growing numbers of childhood obesity, we found a class like this was invaluable to our children’s well-being!”

“Viktoria absolutely loves it and she gives me the lesson every Thursday, demonstrating what she learned,” says

For information on how to register for the Fall 2014 session of Loco Nuts, contact Shelley Hunt at hunts@gcsnc.com

Continuing the commitment... big enough to serve you, small enough to know you ...since 1963

Performing Sunday, March 9 at 11 am

Each week during the six-week Loco Nuts program, you’ll find wide-eyed kids squirming in their seats, eager to learn the health lesson and do the physical activity. By the end of the class, they’re out of breath, wearing sweat on their foreheads and color in their cheeks.

Tia Moleva, a parent of a participant.

Faith Baptist Tabernacle 7925 Lester Rd, Stokesdale convenient to Hwys 158 & 220 (336) 416-3904

Home | Life | Business Auto| Motorcycle Medicare Solutions*

Sun. school 10 am Sun. service 11am & 7 pm Wed. service 7:30 pm

Let’s grow together in faith and family! TITUS 2:13 (KJV)

5709 W Friendly Ave, Greensboro (336) 299-5185

www.gladwellinsurance.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

*Erie Insurance does not offer medicare solutions.

display advertiser index

thanks to all the

advertisers who partnered with us to bring you this free community resource

CHurCHes

insurAnCe

puBlisHing Co / newspAper

Awaken Church ...................................23

Gladwell Insurance Agency..................30 Triad Insurance....................................24

Attorney Bill Barbour .............................4

At Home Spring Home Guide..............21 The Northwest Observer......................31 The NWO on Facebook ........................8 The NWO on the Go ...........................32

mediCAl / eye CAre

reAl estAte / mortgAge

Central Baptist Church ........................24 Faith Baptist Tabernacle ......................30 First Baptist Church of Summerfield.....10 Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church ...........18

A/C & HeAting Stokesdale Heating & Air.......................3 Velocity Air, Inc. ...................................22

employment

ACCounting

events

Carlotta Lytton, CPA, PA .....................15 Kimberly Thacker Accounting..............15 Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC.......10

Oak Ridge Firemen’s BBQ ...................20

Forsyth Pediatrics, Oak Ridge ..............17 Novant / Northwest Family Medicine .....5 LeBauer HealthCare..............................3 Oak Ridge Physical Therapy ................16 Summerfield Family Eye Care ..............15

fitness / sports

ortHodontiCs

Highways & Skyways of NC Inc. ..........26

Cardinal Pool & Swim Club ....................6

Auto serviCes Piedmont Truck Tires, Inc. ..................25 Prestige Car Wash ...............................17

HAir CAre / nAils / tAnning

Builders

LA Nails & Tan, Oak Ridge..................16

America’s Home Place ..........................7

legAl serviCes

Great Clips ..........................................16

Home produCts & serviCes

CHiroprACtiC

ProStone Inc. ......................................22

Summerfield Family Chiropractic ...........9

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

Every week the NWO fills mailboxes and hits the streets – and is even posted online for 24/7 access at nwobserver.com and facebook.com/northwestobserver

Olmsted Orthodontics .........................17

pet serviCes Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital .................12 King’s Crossing Animal Hospital ..........15 KPS - Kelly’s Pet Services .....................12 Northwest Animal Hospital ..................15 Oak Ridge Animal Hospital .................13 Spoil-Me-Rotten Animal Care, Inc. ......14 Westergaard Kennels...........................15

10,500 copies directly mailed to every home with an Oak Ridge, Stokesdale or Summerfield zip code

A New Dawn Realty ............................15 Ann Powell & Nancy Hess ............19, 29 Bobbie Gardner / Allen Tate ..........15, 29 Gil Vaughan / Keller Williams...............29 Ramilya Siegel / Allen Tate ..................10

restAurAnts Elizabeth’s Italian Restaurant ...............16 JP Looney’s Sports Bar & Grill..............16 Rio Grande Mexican Grill ....................17

retAil BiRite Food Center ................................2

sHipping / mAil serviCes The UPS Store at Gunter’s Crossing ......4

+2,500 copies distributed for free pickup at more than 80 locations throughout northwest Guilford County

Want to come along with us? For advertising information, contact Laura Troeger or Annette Joyce | (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 | advertising@nwobserver.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

MARCH 7 - 13, 2014

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

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

PAID

Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22 ECRWSS

Venisque lam, nosapedit, volendit auditem ut velit laccum haris dolorunt faccabo reiust ofﬁc to occae et et hario quaeptae nonseri busam, auditaepelit eliquas magnihilitis quis mod molore volore doluptatem consed quatur sunt blaccab ilicipit mo moditaque ne explitate velitas molorit amusanis as diaecta tatur.

apedit, vovelit laccum cabo reiust Ridge lam, United Methodist Church recently Venisque nosapedit, volendit auditem ut velit traveled to Israel, where they t hario Members of Oak laccum dolorunt faccabo reiust ofﬁObserver c to occae at et the Dead Sea. localharis news with the Northwest busam, caught up on the et hario quaeptae nonseri busam, auditaepelit elis magnihilitis quas magnihilitis quis mod molore volore doluptatem volore doconsed quatur sunt quatur sunt volent aliti m

Where do you take your Northwest Observer? Email your photo to photos@nwobserver.com

A group of Center United Methodist Church youth caught up on local news while on a ski retreat at Lake Junaluska.