July 19 - 25, 2018
bringing the local news home to northwest Guilford County since 1996
www.nwobserver.com
Water: how much do we use, and how is it recharged? by STEVE MANN
septic systems over and over again.”
In this issue we continue with Part 2 of an article that appeared in our July 12-18 issue on water and water recharge.
The loss of water globally has been negligible, he said.
Jim Beeson, a soil scientist and president of Piedmont Environmental Associates PA, said about 95 percent of the water at residences is used in a washing machine, flushing a toilet, running a shower and washing dishes. And that is returned to the groundwater through septic systems. “Very little of it are you actually drinking and consuming,” he said. “You used that water and returned that water to the groundwater table.” As a result, there is continuous circulation of water from land and sea to the atmosphere and back again, a hydrologic cycle. “If we’re not taking that water out of our watershed and disposing of it, we’ll recycle it,” Beeson said. “We’ve turned this volume of water over with wells and
IN THIS ISSUE News in brief.............................2 Your Questions.........................4 On a Mission: ORUMC.............6 Summerfield Town Council.....8 NWO Business/Real Estate.... 11 BB&T leadership institute.......12 Real Estate Transactions........20
“The earth has not lost a molecule of water other than what went up in a space vehicle,” he said. “It’s all here on the blue marble.” It’s been reported that the water table in such states as Texas and California is dropping 100 feet every 10 years. Beeson said that isn’t likely to happen here. “We’re not irrigating like they do,” he said. “We’re not pumping water out of our groundwater here to some farm 50 miles away. We’re returning it right here. We have so little agriculture we irrigate here now it’s not going to make an impact.”
ary of this year. There are no recording wells in Stokesdale and Summerfield, said Doug Smith, a hydrologist with the USGS, but he estimates the average depth to the water level in those towns is about 20 to 22.5 feet. The three municipalities have an eye on groundwater recharge with their zoning districts.
RS-30 is no longer allowed for new developments in Oak Ridge, and no property in Summerfield was allowed to be rezoned to RS-30 after May 4, 1999. Stokesdale has RS-40 and RS-30, but the Ordinance Review Committee recommended eliminating RS-30 and
requiring a minimum lot size of 1 acre. The issue may be put on the agenda for the Aug. 9 town council meeting for public discussion. During the June 14 council meeting, Mayor John Flynt said he would like to see a rural preservation district (RPD) that would allow cluster homes or townhouses. In Oak Ridge, the overall gross density in RS-40 areas is one unit or less per acre. The Town Core-Residential District (TC-R) limits the overall gross density to a maximum of two units per acre. There are three other zoning districts that are residential or allow
...continued on p. 3
According to the United States Geological Survey, the average depth to the water level has fluctuated very little in northwest North Carolina. In Oak Ridge, it has averaged between 19 and 23 feet from March 2016 through Janu-
Real Estate Briefs....................21 Bits & Pieces............................22 Business Notes........................23 Crime/Incident Report..........24 Community Calendar...........25 Grins & Gripes.........................26 Classifieds...............................27 Index of Advertisers...............31
Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO
Oak Ridge Town Manager Bill Bruce writes down growth and development trends for council members during the town council’s third strategic planning session on Tuesday. During the session, the council discussed the town’s strengths and weaknesses, including a shortage of less-expensive houses and congestion on N.C. 68, and current population trends as part of developing a strategic plan to guide the town’s growth over the next five to 10 years.
NEWS in brief
Now enrolling for the 2018-19 school year Oak Level Baptist Academy 1569 Oak Level Church Road Stokesdale • (336) 643-9288 K3, K4, K-12 – $280 per month / 10 months Discounts available after first child
Culp pays fines stemming from December spill by STEVE MANN
Full scholarsh ips are now available !
For more information, contact: Clay Walker • (336) 643-1449 • oakchurch@bellsouth.net Jackie Moore • (336) 951-2270 • jmoore86@triad.rr.com
Or, visit us online at www.oaklevelbaptistchurch.org
WARM
WEATHER
IS HERE
Make sure your A/C system can handle the job
STOKESDALE – Less than a month after the state denied its request to drop fines stemming from the spill of an estimated 250-500 gallons of wastewater last December, Culp Home Fashions paid $7,971.45 in civil penalties and investigative/administrative costs. The payment was received May 31, according to Sonja M. Gregory, an environmental senior specialist in the nondischarge permitting unit of the state Department of Environmental Quality. In March, Culp was assessed $6,500 in civil penalties and $1,471.45 in investigative/administrative costs after it had been cited in January for seven violations of state water-quality standards, N.C. general statutes and Culp’s non-discharge wastewater permit for a closed-loop recycle system. Culp was fined for only six of the alleged violations.
Ask about special financing Subject to credit approval, see store for details
7101 US 158, Stokesdale • (336) 643-7397 NEW SYSTEM INSTALLATION • SERVICE • REPAIR
2
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
Culp requested remission of the fines April 11, and was notified of the state’s decision to deny the request May 4. Culp had 30 days to pay the fines or request an oral presentation to explain to the N.C. Environmental Management Commission’s Committee on Civil Penalty Remissions why its request for remission met one or more of five statutory factors. In its request for remission, Culp said it met four of the five statutory factors, including the violation was not an accident but was caused by vandalism and that Culp had not been assessed civil penalties for any previous violations. Culp could have been fined up to $25,000 a day for each violation under state statutes.
Council approves revised public records request policy by PATTI STOKES
www.trane.com
A complaint was received Dec. 20 by the Winston-Salem regional office of the Division of Water Resources about a milky substance in an unnamed Haw River tributary behind Culp along Ellison Road that smelled like sewage.
SUMMERFIELD – Until recently, every public records request submitted to the Town of Summerfield was automatically forwarded to the town attorney for review before steps were taken to fulfill the request. According to the town’s revised public records policy which was approved at the July 10 town council meeting, attorney review is no longer required, unless the person who pos-
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
sesses the requested public record(s) has a concern about whether the request complies with NCGS Chapter 132. If there are concerns, the town manager will consult with the attorney, or forward the record to the attorney for review or clarification. During the more than 30 minutes the policy change was being discussed, Mayor Gail Dunham urged the council to table the issue, saying
the town should undergo more due diligence, consult with the League of Municipalities, and that the town attorney should be present (the attorney reportedly was absent from the meeting due to having food poisoning). Town Manager Scott Whitaker assured Dunham the town attorney had reviewed the revised policy prior to the meeting and made only one suggestion, which had been included. Most of the discussion centered on fees for photocopies or CDs and, in some cases, a “special service charge” for fulfilling public records requests. According to the revised policy, “if the manager deems a request involves a special service charge, a cost estimate will be provided to the requester and payment will be collected prior to further processing the request.” Whitaker explained the purpose of the special service charge isn’t to
WATER: USAGE ...continued from p. 1
residential, two of which are only in the town core: Planned Unit Development, Residential (PD-R), which accommodates a variety of housing types developed on large tracts in accordance with a unified development plan and neighborhood business and office uses; and Planned Unit Development, Mixed (PD-M), which accommodates residential, commercial and light industrial uses developed on large tracts in the town core. The third – RPD – requires a 50 percent open-space dedication in exchange for smaller lots, according to Town Clerk Sandra Smith. In Summerfield, the Comprehensive Plan recommends groundwater recharge as the main goal for protecting water supply and “greenspace developments” as best for recharge, Spencer said. RS-40 and Open Space Residential
make money off the requests, but that some requests require the town’s IT person, attorney or other contracted professional to get involved, which drives up the cost. “We just want to cover the cost that the statutes allow us to recover when there is something special we have to do,” Whitaker noted. The town’s previous public records request policy stated that all requests should be in writing and should include the requester’s name, full address and telephone number. According to state statute, the town cannot require a requester of public records provide their name, phone number, address, or the reason for their request. The revised policy adopted July 10 does not request the name or contact information for the person making the public records request. District (OSRD) require open space dedication. Spencer said there are at 13 subdivisions with lots allowed to be as small as 15,000 square feet under ORSD. All have at least 50 percent conservation area. Of those 13 subdivisions, there are less than 10 lots as small as 15,000 square feet, she said. Stokesdale has six other zoning districts, from RS-20 to RS-5. Those, however, require public sewer service, which the town doesn’t have.
Barbour & Williams Law 8004 Linville Road, Suite E-3, Oak Ridge (336) 643-4623 • barbourwilliams.com
Do you have a son or daughter heading off to college?
Beeson said the key is creating open space. “If we can create these open spaces in subdivisions and have them exist beside each other from one subdivision to the next, then maybe three generations from now we’ll still have a block of woods or a field to look at,” Beeson said. “If not, we’re going to carve the whole place up and it’s going to look like postage stamps in your choice, 30s (thousand square feet), 40s or 60s.”
Did you know that once they turn 18, you can no longer make medical or financial decisions on their behalf? Be prepared! It may be a good idea to ask your adult child to sign financial and healthcare Powers of Attorney before they go. Call us today to discuss your individual needs.
Estate Administration Estate Planning • Guardianships
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
3
www.nwobserver.com /northwestobserver @mynwobserver @northwestobserver
OUR TEAM Patti Stokes, editor/publisher Laura Reneer, marketing manager Marilyn Grubbs, admin/editorial assistant Jorge Maturino, art director Yvonne Truhon, page layout
What steps can be taken in response to Summerfield Mayor Gail Dunham not fulfilling public records requests for copies of her emails within “a reasonable period of time” (one
request for her emails dates back to April, and several requests were submitted one to two months ago)? Wasn’t transparency a huge focal point of her campaign? And, as a citizen, didn’t she file more public records requests than any other citizen in the town’s history?
To answer your last question, Leon Stokes, IT director yes, before elected to office Lucy Smith, finance manager last November, Gail Dunham Linda Schatz, distribution manager filed more public records requests than Steve Mann, staff writer any other citizen in Summerfield’s Chris Burritt, Marc Pruitt, Helen Ledford, 21-year history of incorporation, and Nora Murray and Annette Joyce, she was often an outspoken critic of contributing writers town staff and elected officials for not fulfilling her requests in what she deemed to be a timely manner. email: info • celebrations • photos In June 2017, Summerfield Town communitynews • realestatenews Manager Scott Whitaker, told the calendarevents • grinsandgripes town council that town staff had been opinions • editor • questions flooded with public records requests. ... @ nwobserver.com “The public requests that come phone: (336) 644-7035 fax: (336) 644-7006
HOW TO REACH US
from one citizen (Dunham) alone costs this town thousands of dollars. We have requests that come in like rapid fire machine guns and it takes time.» Some Summerfield citizens had little sympathy for how much time or expense was involved in fulfilling Dunham’s and their public records requests, however, and among them were former town council member Elizabeth McClellan and current town council member Teresa Pegram. McClellan told the Northwest Observer in June 2017 that requesting public records was a right citizens have and it doesn’t matter if it costs money, or takes staff time. Pegram, who also has struggled to fill public records requests for her emails since being sworn into office in December, citing difficulties with her email program, told the Northwest Observer in June 2017, “It does not matter how much time, money and effort goes into it. These documents belong to the people and must be made available.” When she took office, Dunham declined to use her assigned gdunham @summerfieldgov.com email address – which would have routed her emails through the Town of Summerfield’s email server – and instead set up a
office: 1616 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge mail: PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310
yahoo.com account using the mayorgail@yahoo.com email address. A recent email the Northwest Observer received via a public records request showed Dunham has also used another email address, gadunham@aol.com, when discussing town business with certain individuals, but the town does not have direct access to either of Dunham’s email accounts. Whitaker has offered to have the town’s contracted IT person help Dunham retrieve the requested emails from her computer, but she has thus far declined. “If she is not able to provide the public records, we will again offer to have the town’s IT person go into her personal email accounts and assist her with producing the emails,” Mayor Pro Tem Dena Barnes told the Northwest Observer on July 18. In an article on N.C. Policy Watch’s website dated June 6, 2017, Frieda Bluestein, a public law professor with the nonpartisan UNC School of Government, was quoted as saying, “…Individuals who feel officials are not following the law have the option to file suit, with the possibility of collecting payment for attorney fees if the courts determine an official or their office has ‘knowingly’ hindered access to public records. “You don’t have to drop everything and do it, but you can’t just set it aside
...continued on p. 10
hours: M-F 9am-2pm (or by appt.)
Curious about something?
WANT TO ADVERTISE? Contact us at (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 display: advertising@nwobserver.com
Submit your questions about topics relevant to the northwest area
classified: classifieds@nwobserver.com
online: nwobserver.com
Independently owned & published by
e-mail: questions@ nwobserver.com
4
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
One team… Care for all ages
Dr. Renee Kuneff LeBauer Oak Ridge Now accepting new patients!
We have expanded our practice to better meet your family’s needs. We are taking new patients and we have same-day appointment availability. Our office gives your whole family access to: • Family Medicine • an online patient portal • On-Site lab services • Behavioral Health You will also have access to our entire LeBauer specialty network including: • Gastroenterology • Sports Medicine • Neurology • Physical Therapy • Pulmonology • Health Coaches
LeBauer Healthcare at Oak Ridge 1427 NC-68 • Oak Ridge, NC 27310 (336) 644-6770
lebauer.com
Ridge UMC
“It’s absolutely a calling for me and all part of God’s plan,” Kern said. “Everything I’ve done in my career helped me to develop a lot of the skills I needed to do this. It all helped me to prepare for this.” Kern’s initial trips to Guatemala
compassionate
personal caring responsive
NEW WELLNESS TESTING! Karen Nasisse, DVM • Jessica Young, DVM
“The VIM helps to coordinate our travel arrangements, the city we visit, and identify the projects in each com“Compassionate, Comprehensive munity,” Kern said. “They told“Compassionate, me about “Compassionate, State-of-the-art Care” Comprehensive Comprehensive the stoves, which were already being Care” State-of-the-art Care” State-of-the-art built in Guatemala, and the need to have Karen Nasisse, DVM Karen Nasisse, Nasisse, DVM themDVM installed along with the Karen water filters. Ph 336-643-8984 Ph 336-643-8984 Ph 336-643-8984 The idea was for them to mimic the Fax 336-643-8987 Fax 336-643-8987 Fax 336-643-8987 1692 NC 68N, Suite J, 27310 1692 NC 68N, Suite J, 27310 traditional methods and make 1692 NC 68N, Suite J,cooking 27310 homes safer. Most of the people there “Compassionate, “Compassionate, Comprehensive cook over an open fire and areComprehensive exposed State-of-the-art Care” State-of-the-art Care” “Compassionate, toComprehensive dangerous carbon monoxide gas; Care” KarenState-of-the-art Nasisse, DVM Karensevere Nasisse, DVM sometimes small children suffer Ph 336-643-8984 Ph 336-643-8984 burns from falling in the fires, or a lot of Fax 336-643-8987 Fax 336-643-8987 Karen DVM 1692 NC 68N, Suite J, Nasisse, 27310 1692 NC 68N, Suite J, 27310 the women develop problems with their Ph 336-643-8984 Fax 336-643-8987 1692 NC 68N, Suite J, 27310
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
vision because of the smoke.” Kern assembles his teams into groups of two, along with an interpreter, and they then go into homes and assemble the stoves and water filters. “This also helps the families economically by reducing the amount of wood “Compassionate, they might have to buy to build fires – and Comprehensive “Compassionate, it’s healthier for them because of it,” Kern State-of-the-art Care” Comprehensive State-of-the-art Care” drinking said. “Not only are they now filtered water, don’t have to worry Karen Nasisse, DVMthey Karen Nasisse, DVM about breathing in smoke from the fires.” Ph 336-643-8984 Ph 336-643-8984 Fax 336-643-8987
“Compassi Comprehe State-of-the-a
Karen Nasiss
Ph 336
Fax 336-643-8987 Fax 336 1692 before NC 68N, Suite J, 27310 Kern said that each stove and 1692 NC 68N, 1692 NC 68N, Suite J, 27310 Suit filter is installed, families who are selected “Compassionate, to receive them get training at a local Comprehensive State-of-the-art Care” “Compassionate, “Compassi church. A small concrete floor is also Comprehensive Comprehe spread in the give State-of-the-art Care”house State-of-the-a Karen to Nasisse, DVMthe stove a solid foundation. Ph 336-643-8984
Karen “These Nasisse, DVM are Ph 336-643-8984 Fax 336-643-8987 1692 NC 68N, Suite J, 27310
Fax 336-643-8987
1692 NC 68N, Suite J, 27310 things they have never
Has an appointment
_________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ Time Date Time Date Time ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
_________________________________ Time
6
involved him helping to build churches in the communities where the volunteers served. After a few trips, he decided he wanted to do something that would have more of an economic impact.
_________________________________ Date
1692-J NC Hwy 68 N, Oak Ridge • (336) 643-8984
Photo courtesy of Max Kern
A team from VIM installs a stove for a family in Guatemala.
Has an appointment
“My father had just passed away and a lady in our church came to me and told me she needed another adult to go on a trip to Alaska and asked if I wanted to follow in my dad’s footsteps,” Kern said. “My dad had done some mission work in
Kern’s wife, Shirley, estimates she has gone on about 10 mission trips, and both of their grown children – son Hal and daughter Laura – have also gone on several mission trips to various destinations.
Karen Nasiss
Ph 336 Fax 336 1692 NC 68N, Suit
Has an appointment
Kern’s first mission trip was to Alaska in 1999 and he’s been spreading his service ever since.
Kern said the average dwelling where the teams do their work houses six people, meaning more than 12,000 people have been served since volunteers started installing the stoves and water filters.
______________________ Date
Through Oak Ridge United Methodist Church, Kern, a retired contractor, has been going on mission trips for 20 years under the umbrella of the Volunteers in Mission (VIM) program. Many of his trips have been to the Caribbean and Central America, where his work in Guatemala continues to shine a light on the people there.
_________________________________ Time
What started as way to honor his father and spread the teachings of the Methodist faith turned into a calling for Summerfield resident Max Kern.
Kern has since traveled to Jamaica, Haiti, Costa Rica, Armenia and Guatemala. Since 2006 he and various teams from his church have worked through VIM to travel to Guatemala and install stoves and water filters in homes. To date they have installed 2,150 stoves, with plans for 500 more by the end of this year.
_________________________________ Date
by MARC PRUITT
Honduras, Florida and Virginia, and I had never done anything. So, when she put it to me like that, it was a hard thing to pass up.”
_________________________________ Time
ORUMC works through VIM to install stoves, water filters in Guatemala
_________________________________ Date
with Oak
to help a lot of people,” she continued. “A lot of the things we complain about here aren’t even in the neighborhood in Guatemala. Hopefully, it will continue to grow and more people will want to get involved. More churches are calling Max about going.” Max Kern’s leadership has also led to a partnership between the Methodist church and students at High Point University, who have been going on trips during their fall and spring breaks for the last several years. “Some of them come back and bring their parents with them,” Kern said. “That’s been a great partnership for us since they started going.” Kern is hopeful that in future trips, stoves and filters can be installed in schools. Photo courtesy of Max Kern
Shirley Kern, left, and Max Kern (back row) with a family in Guatemala done before and they are not used to doing,” Kern said. “It’s important they learn how to use them before we install them. Helps International is our local supplier in Guatemala, and we also provide the families with de-wormer to put in the water, as well as a 30-day supply of vitamins.” Shirley Kern said her first experience in Guatemala was definitely an eyeopener. “The dirt floors and the walls in the
homes are just black from all the smoke that’s been in there,” she said. “They are always dark; in many cases, the open fire would provide their only source of light. They have started whitewashing the walls, which makes the inside of homes a lot brighter. Most homes only have a little spigot outside that provides the water, and no indoor plumbing. “It touches your heart, especially seeing what kind of positive impact you can have when everyone comes together
“It just makes sense to us that if they can get clean water in their homes, they also should have it in the schools,” he said. “That’s still a work in progress, but I’m hopeful we can make that happen soon.” Kern spends a lot of time raising money and handling administrative duties in the months between trips, in addition to recruiting new team members. “It costs about $1,300 per person to go and we raise all of that money,” he said. “Every cent of what is raised goes directly to help the people in Guatemala.”
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
The Kerns also sponsor families in Guatemala and connect other families to families in the States. “We’ll take pictures with us of families here who have sponsored a family there and they will hang (the pictures) on their walls and pray for them, and vice versa,” Shirley Kern said. “We want them to have that relationship with the family and that gives it more of a personal touch. When we go, we are out in the communities we serve and sleeping on church floors. We try to think about how we can do the most good. It’s definitely life-changing every time you go.” Max Kern is aware there will eventually come a day when he has to step aside or diminish his role, but until then, he is full steam ahead. “We approach it as an opportunity to grow God’s kingdom,” he said. “We would much rather be in the communities with the people when we go. We could never walk a mile in their shoes. No matter how bad we think we have it, it’s always better than what they have. We just want to give them a little better quality of life and open the door to their relationship with God.”
•••••
want to help? For more information, visit www.oakridgeumc.org/outreach and select “Changing lives in Guatemala.”
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
7
SUMMERFIELD town council
July 10 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by PATTI STOKES It took a few tries and several moments of discussion, but the consent agenda for the July 10 town council meeting was ultimately approved after three items shown near the beginning of the agenda were moved further down, under “Business from Mayor and Council.”
EMERGENCY SERVICES Summerfield Fire Chief Chris Johnson reported the department responded to 17 fire-related calls for service in June, 60 EMS calls and 18 other calls. Department personnel installed 10 car seats and five smoke detectors and had a very successful fire camp for third- through fifth-grade students, Johnson noted. Be mindful about staying hydrated in the summer heat, Johnson advised. Corporal J. D. Goodnight with the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office reported the District 1 office responded to 577 calls for service in June; 118 of those calls were in Summerfield, with three being Part 1 crimes – two those
have been closed by arrest and one, a Breaking & Entering, is still open. Crime was down 20 percent in June compared to June 2017, Goodnight said, adding, “You live in the safest place in Guilford County.” Goodnight credited citizens who report suspicious activity for contributing to area crime being low. He also said sheriff’s deputies are spending more time on back roads in the area that are through roads and watching for speeders.
COMMITTEE REPORTS On behalf of the Historical Committee, Betsy Ingram reported that Chair Linda Southard is still in rehab at River Landing, where she is recovering from a broken hip. Ingram passed along a thank you from Southard for all the cards, visits, well wishes and phone calls she has received in recent weeks. The Historical Committee strongly favors preserving the historic Gordon building and the Martin House at the N.C. 150 and Summerfield Road intersection, Ingram told the council.
“The committee expressed strongly that they didn’t want to see either of the two historic buildings torn down or sold,” Ingram said. Trails and Open Space Committee chair Jane Doggett said committee members set up a tent at the town’s recent Music in the Park event and at a Summerfield Farms’ music event. The committee continues work on developing a map for the A&Y Greenway extension through Summerfield that shows nodes of interest and residential areas with a variety of connector lines, Doggett added. Regarding event after-action reports compiled by staff member Cheryl Gore, several council members commented on what a great job Gore did on reporting on Founders’ Day in May, and an open house for the Gordon building and Martin House, Movie in the Park, Music in the Park and Fishing Derby in June. Mayor Gail Dunham noted the Movie in the Park in June cost about $15 per person plus staff time, and she questioned whether the town was getting enough return on its investment. Council members Reece Walker and John O’Day advised not basing any decisions on attendance at the June 8 movie showing, since families were
involved with graduations and several other events that week.
PUBLIC COMMENTS Carol Carter, a former Town of Summerfield planner, said the Gordon building is in a historic district and the state’s Historic Preservation office would need to be consulted before any changes were made to the property. Regarding the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), Carter said many people, including herself and a paid consultant, had worked on it over the last several years and during her employment with the town she had worked out a contract for a full review of the UDO, but Town Manager Scott Whitaker declined to sign it. “I was forced to leave in July (2013), and you were almost to the point of having an ordinance that had been legally reviewed by the best in the country,” Carter said, adding, “It was a pleasure working for the citizens of Summerfield.” Andrew Broom, who chaired the town’s UDO Review Committee, said the committee wrapped up its work in May and unanimously approved recommendations to pass on to the Zoning Board. “We had no dissenting votes,” Broom emphasized.
SAVE UP TO $75 When You Join the Y and Donate a New Backpack to our Bright Beginnings Program July 15 - August 15.
SPEARS FAMILY YMCA: 336.387-9622 • SpearsYMCA.org 3216 Horse Pen Creek Rd., Greensboro, NC 27410
8
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
Help a child in our community succeed.
Broom then said he was embarrassed and frustrated by comments made (at the June 12 town council meeting) by “a group of insiders who staged attacks on Town Manager Scott Whitaker, Finance Officer Dee Hall and others. “Some of the people who made public comments have even apologized online and in the Northwest Observer, having mentioned that they felt like puppets to the mayor’s inner circle,” Broom said. “I have seen the email chains where Gail (Dunham) helped rally this group to discredit Mrs. Hall’s abilities. “… We have known for a long time that this inner circle has been pushing misinformation to discredit those who do not agree with them, but more importantly we have detailed proof with these emails,” Broom continued. “… (Mayor) Gail, I ask that you please respond to public records requests that you were so focused on as a citizen, and practice what you preach… All Summerfield citizens should demand the same transparency from our mayor that she has demanded of the elected officials for many years. “Please do not make excuses saying that you have way too many emails,” Broom continued. “That did not stop you from participating in the emails rallying the group to attack Dee Hall. If you are unable to respond to email, then you are not fit to be our mayor.” Tim Stamp of Fegan Road spoke next, saying he was a new resident of Summerfield and appreciated the Northwest Observer keeping residents informed. Stamp then said some of what he reads in the local paper concerns him greatly, including that the City of Greensboro might be bringing water to Summerfield (Stamp was later corrected on this, as neither the Northwest Observer nor the town have stated Greensboro has plans to bring water to Summerfield). Beth Kaplan referenced a recent
email written by former town finance officer Dana Luther to Mayor Dunham, in which Luther took issue with the current finance officer’s salary. “When Dana Luther was making $45 an hour, Michael Brandt (then town manager) was making $27.50 an hour,” Kaplan said. “When Michael left he was making $35 an hour, but Dana was making $50 an hour – more than Scott (Whitaker) was hired on at (in June 2012). Kaplan noted that Hall makes $38.90 an hour, which is considerably less than Luther’s hourly pay was, and Luther’s claim in her email that Hall received a 2 percent longevity raise this year isn’t true. Dwayne Crawford offered an answer to a question which arose at the June 28 special call meeting: if three four-year council seats were up for election along with a fourth one to fill a vacant seat (as is the case with Todd Rotruck’s seat), how would the fourth seat be handled? The answer, Crawford said, was the fourth seat would only be for a two-year term and would appear separately on the ballot. Regarding the two petitions currently in circuation which seek to change the town’s form of government and to allow someone who is appointed to fill a vacated seat to only serve until the next election, Crawford said he had less than 300 signatures to go before the petitions could be placed on the November ballot. Dana Luther said she had been criticized rather than thanked for her insights as the town’s former finance officer, and her words had been misprinted and misconstrued in the Northwest Observer.
IN RESPONSE
During the period designated for responses to public comments, Councilman Walker emphasized that no one had stated Greensboro would be placing water lines in Summerfield.
Colors are the smiles of nature.
Councilman O’Day asked Finance Officer Dee Hall if she objected to anyone calling her if they had questions about the town’s finances and she said no, and she encouraged it.
A smile is hapMANAGER’S BUSINESS piness you’ll find right under your nose. Appointments. The council voted unanimously to re-appoint several people to the town’s Finance, Historical and Trails and Open Space committees and to appoint Gary Brown and Bruce Peterson as new members on the Historical Committee and Ryan Moats as an alternate member on the Zoning Board.
A smile is a curve that sets A smile is everything the prettiest straight. thing you Don’t cry be- can wear! cause it’s over. Keep your whole family’s Smile because smiles glowing with it happened.
UDO Draft. Zoning Board Chair Dick Fuelner and Vice Chair Jeff Davis asked to clarify the Zoning Board’s role in reviewing the UDO.
“We have met three times since this (UDO Review Committee recommendations) was handed off to us May 21 and we voted unanimously that it is very critical that the Zoning Board review the entire ordinance,” Fuelner told the council. The board is committed to thoroughly reviewing the ordinance and all five regular members as well as alternates are involved in the review process, Fuelner said. “We’ve been at this for eight years and spent a lot of money,” Dunham said. “The one thing I want is to do it right. My feeling is, whatever else you’d like to have (with regard to supporting documents), fine.” “I concur (with the mayor) – and that’s unusual!” O’Day said. Planning Director Carrie Spencer was praised for her guidance and support throughout the ordinance review process, and Spencer said she would put the board’s recommended ordinance revisions in a Dropbox file on the town’s website, as she did with the UDO Review Committee’s recommendations.
Public Records Request policy. The council spent more than 30 minutes ...continued on p. 10
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
Dr. Beth Borden (336) 644-2770
1009 Hwy 150W, Summerfield
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
9
TOWN COUNCIL ...continued from p. 9
discussing a change in the town’s public records request policy before deciding to adopt a revised policy. See News Briefs for more details on the discussion.
Monument. Whitaker noted work in the area around the Bugler Boy’s monument, located just off N.C. 150 since 1941, was completed in June and there is now a widened area with two parking spaces and a natural footpath to the monument. A historical marker will be placed there in the near future. Water Study. Regarding a water feasibility study being conducted by the Timmons Group, Whitaker said a progress meeting was scheduled for July 17 (update: the July 17 meeting was cancelled, and a new date/time for the progress meeting was not immediately scheduled). Video Recording Meetings. Whitaker said video recording council meetings
had long been discussed, and he asked the council for an ok to purchase video recording equipment and begin recording council meetings as of the Aug. 14 meeting (the council agreed).
Master Plan. WithersRavenal expects to have a master plan for the N.C. 150 and Summerfield Road intersection completed in September, Whitaker said. An extension for spending the $33,000 grant the town was awarded by the state last year has been received, which will allow the town to ensure plans for the grant are congruent with the master plan.
COUNCIL BUSINESS A&Y Greenway. Tentatively, an open house date for an A&Y Greenway (south) map presentation was scheduled for Aug. 14, 5 to 7 p.m., with the monthly council meeting following. Budget Amendment. The council voted 4-0 to ratify Budget Amendment #7 in the amount of $5,900 to move budget line items.
Call us toda y
Healthy Smiles. Happy Patients.
and take the fi rs towards a hea t step lthy and beautiful smile !
ry
Dr. Preston Ford
Dr. Preston Ford, DDS • Dr. Jenny Weston, DDS • Dr. Ben Weston, DDS
336.643.1440 • SummerfieldDentist.com 6161-A Lake Brandt Road • Summerfield
One Block South of Southern States on Lake Brandt Road
10
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
“Also, they have followed Summerfield, they know there is a lot of activity, and honestly, they feel Summerfield is going to be more work in getting through the process this year.” Hall said the firm will consider decreasing the cost the following year if things go smoothly this next year. “They basically went up 50 percent because of our …” Councilwoman Pegram started to say. “Split council,” Hall said, completing the sentence. The audit contract was approved 4-0.
PUBLIC RECORDS
cally defined by state statute).
...continued from p. 4
and not respond,” Bluestein said in the article, adding that, “while public officials have a growing number of communications – including phone texts and emails – that are susceptible to records requests, leaders must still honor the law expediently.” In the same article as referenced above, Amanda Martin, general counsel for the N.C. Press Association, stated, “Public records laws say public agencies have a responsibility to respond as promptly as possible.”
Summerfield Dentist
Welcomes
Audit Contract. Gibson & Company, the CPA firm that performed the town’s audit last year, has presented a contract for the upcoming year’s audit and the cost has increased significantly. Whitaker said the town decided to change auditors last year based on UNC School of Government’s suggestion that municipalities should periodically have a new set of eyes on their books and the Finance Committee’s subsequent recommendation. Whitaker and Hall assured the council that Gibson & Company had been fully vetted and came highly recommended. The fee increase for the upcoming year was partially due to the auditor being asked several questions after delivering a clean audit report in December, Whitaker said. “There was a lot of back-and forth and things you wanted cleared up,” he told the mayor.
As for what other recourse there might be for a public official not responding to public records requests, a citizen can file a legal action stating the person in possession of the public records has violated the state’s public records act by not fulfilling the request in a reasonable time (keeping in mind that what is “reasonable” is not specifi-
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
Public Records Request. Referencing public records requests she has been receiving, Pegram said she was working on fulfilling them, but her email program has been working “on and off.” “I will respond to public requests as soon as I can,” she said. The meeting adjourned at 9:46 p.m.
Citizens can also contact the N.C. Attorney General’s office, which acts as a liaison between public officials and the public and provides assistance when public agencies do not allow their records to be examined. Questions or concerns about potential violations of open government laws, known as “sunshine laws,” may be reported to the Attorney General’s Public Protection Section at opengov@ncdoj.gov or call (919) 716-6938. As of our press deadline on the afternoon of July 18, Dunham had not responded to emails the Northwest Observer sent her mid-morning on the previous day in which she was asked when she anticipated beginning to fill the public records requests she has received for copies of her town business-related emails, and if she was experiencing particular challenges in filling them.
BB&T’s new Leadership Institute off Regional Road in northwest Greensboro opened last month. The $35 million campus provides a brand-new experience for guests, including immersive spaces for learning, 48 individual guest rooms for overnight visitors, a unique “tree house” meeting room, dining area, fitness facilities, staff offices and more. Photo courtesy of BB&T
12 BB&T opens $35 million leadership training facility 20 Real Estate Transactions
19 Ask the Builder
21 Business/Real Estate Briefs
BB&T opens $35 million leadership training facility by CHRIS BURRITT
to see a harmonious marriage between the built environment and the natural world. The form of the building evolved from understanding the existing site – the terrain, the layering of canopy trees, the lake – looking at how to best introduce building elements, vehicular paths and capture views of the water.”
NW GREENSBORO – BB&T Corp. opened its $35 million leadership training facility off Regional Road in northwest Greensboro last month. The facility offers immersive spaces for learning, 48 individual guest rooms for overnight visitors, a unique “tree house” meeting room, dining area, fitness facilities, staff offices, a reflecting pond and more.
During the institute’s construction phase, oak trees cut down from the site were turned into doors in the reception lobby and dining and buffet area and heavy timbers were used in the main conference building.
Through its new leadership institute, BB&T, headquartered in Winston-Salem, seeks to attract even more corporate business owners, BB&T clients, organizational and educational leaders to the corporation’s leadership programs. For BB&T, it’s an opportunity to cement relations with banking clients and enhance training for its own employees. “This really is all about the psychology of better business – using proven methods to create effective leaders and build successful teams for some of the brightest business minds in our country,” Will Sutton, the director of BB&T’s Leadership Institute, said in a company statement released June 20. “With this new campus, we believe our leadership development programs will be an even more life-changing experience for our guests.” Adjacent to the company’s Triad Corporate Center, the 60,000-square-foot facility consists of three levels overlook-
The facility is targeted to qualify for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for efforts to conserve energy and reduce water usage, BB&T representatives said.
Photo courtesy of BB&T
BB&T’s new training facility on Airport Center Drive includes a unique “tree house” meeting room that is situated among large oak trees. ing a lake on a heavily wooded tract on Airport Center Drive. The institute’s meeting room, the “tree house,” is situated among large oak trees and takes on the character of a chapel in the woods. Glass walls open to views outdoors where three decks with
wicker rocking chairs and a stone fire pit contribute to what BB&T calls a “contemporary lodge ambience.” “The ultimate design intent was to create a tranquil space for learning and self-reflection,” said Jeff Sowers, AIA, principal architect at CJMW. “We wanted
(336) 509-1923 REALTOR®/Broker NC Licensed Contractor BA in Architecture
REAL ESTATE GROUP
12
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
BB&T’s leadership institute has customized a program to meet the specific leadership development needs of public school administrators, at no cost to participants. Using an approach
...continued on p. 21
Reserve now for your summer vacation!
DeDe Cunningham
DeDe’s
Since 1971 BB&T has put its employees through leadership training. In 1994 the corporation acquired Farr Associates, a High Point-based leadership development consulting firm, to boost its leadership programs. The Leadership Institute relocated to its new campus from High Point.
Westergaard Kennels DOG BOARDING
5908 Crutchfield Farm Rd. • Oak Ridge 4 BR/3.5 BA, huge lot, outdoor living spaces, and finished basement. $477,000
Celebrating 29 years of caring for your dogs 5719 Bunch Road, Oak Ridge (336) 643-5169 • jingletail@mac.com
www.dedesrealestategroup.com
www.westbengoldens.com
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
Brought to you by We do the homework that sells homes Jason Smith: (336) 451-4921 Tonya Gilbert: (336) 215-7138
smithmarketinginc.com Linville Ridge, Bethel Ridge, Knight’s Landing – Oak Ridge
• Birkhaven – Summerfield • Dawn Acres, NorthRidge, Charles Place – Stokesdale
We Build Quality Homes
(336) 420-8555
All the Best Quality, Experience, Detail Hands-on craftsmen for over 30 years throughout the Triad We are a family business that takes pride in our hands-on craftsmanship. Let us create your dream home in one of the neighborhoods we’re currently building in – or wherever you want to be!
Schedule a custom home consultation today (336) 643-4219 | DisneyCustomHomes.com Like us on Facebook
houzz.com/pro/disneyconstructionco
walravensignaturehomes.com (336) 442-8657 (Matt Walraven) (336) 207-7790 (office) Like us on Facebook
Quality
is a standard in our homes ... not an upgrade Build a home with Don Mills Builders! Build a new home next to Bur-Mil Park! From the low $500’s
We believe in doing things
the old-fashioned way – with honesty and trust, providing an exceptional product and making sure our new homeowners are completely satisfied.
Our commitment to
quality and customer service shows in every detail of our homes. Before you make a decision on who will build your new home, contact us!
Co-owners Don & Annette Mills
30 years of hands-on experience
(336) 362-1777 | www.donmillsbuilders.com
Brought to you by Smith Marketing
Johnson & Lee, all in the family
File photo
(From left) Casey and Commie Johnson and Rick and Mike Lee.
Two father-and-son teams combine decades of commercial and residential building experience to forge a partnership based on quality construction and customer satisfaction
When only the best will do Custom home building isn’t just our job, it’s our passion. With attention to detail at every step of the way, we’ll strive to make your home building process smooth and stress-free. Plus, we back every new home with a 1-year warranty. We hope you’ll work with us to build your next home – you won’t regret it!
www.naylorcustomhomes.com (336) 382-9085 • naylorcustom@gmail.com
After deciding to move to northwest Guilford County a few years ago, Todd Cox and his wife, Megan Smith, did their homework. They first settled on the school district they wanted to live in, then searched for the specific neighborhood, and finally, for the custom home builder to create their new home from the ground up. It was through that process that they selected the Northridge community in Stokesdale, and Johnson & Lee as their builder team. Cox and his wife worked especially closely with father-and-son team Commie and Casey Johnson. In 2005 the Johnsons had created a partnership with Rick Lee and his son Mike. Commie brought almost 30 years’ experience in the commercial building industry to the partnership and Rick brought 40-plus years’ experience in the residential building industry. Both sons learned the trade under their fathers’ careful watch, and now boast several years’ experience of their own in both residential and commercial building.
All four men are local residents – the Johnsons live in Stokesdale and the Lees in Oak Ridge – and each is a licensed contractor. Their company is structured so that one of them personally manages each project all the way through. “From Day 1 they were great. They answered calls and texts on time and they never dropped the ball,” Cox said of the Johnsons.
Johnson & Lee has is building in; the c
“I think it was an advantage to work with two of them – they would both communicate with us. I would send Casey texts, which didn’t seem to bother him. I would tell him ‘no rush,’ but he would always get back to me within an hour. We sent Commie emails with questions and he always came back with an answer.” Cox and Smith visited their home site on weekends throughout the building process, and said the Johnsons were always willing to meet them on Saturdays and go over questions and updates. “These two guys were on the spot. It was a lot more pleasant than many (homebuilding) experiences I heard about – I think we picked a great team,” Cox said. Roger and Beth Voakes had an equally positive experience working with Johnson & Lee after they relocated to the
Brought t
Photo courtesy of Jeff Jones Photography
s this home for sale in Knight’s Landing in Oak Ridge, one of several communities the company company also specializes in commercial construction.
area and began looking for a new home site in northwest Guilford County. “We looked through all the different homes on the Parade of Homes, and several were built by Johnson & Lee,” Roger said. “So we talked to our agent and she knew them and gave them a good recommendation.” Johnson & Lee had the lot the couple wanted in Knight’s Landing in Oak Ridge, and after meeting and going over a house plan, the deal was sealed. “They made all the alterations we asked for and kept us in the loop,” Roger said. “Anytime we had a change request, they would listen and figure out how to get what we wanted. “We had bought several houses before, but this was the first time we built a house and they took the time to educate us,” Roger added.
to you by Smith Marketing
The trim work reflects a builder’s attention to detail, and that’s something Roger took note of. “We saw that extra attention to detail throughout the process,” he said. “Rick (Lee) and Commie (Johnson) also did a great job on last-minute changes. They were very accommodating. “The house turned out wonderful,” Roger added. “We’ve been in it for seven months and have had no issues. Everybody who comes over loves it and we love it. It’s been the best experience we’ve had with a house purchase.”
(336) 362-4462 / (336) 706-1887
www.JohnsonandLeeLLC.com
Mike or Rick Lee (336) 362-4462
Commie or Casey Johnson (336) 706-1887
www.JohnsonandLeeLLC.com
You dream it...let us build it “The whole R&K team was amazing to work with. Amazing family and their work and craftsmanship is top notch. They work with your vision to help you create the home you have dreamed about. Such a great experience and couldn’t be happier with our new home.” – Craig and Kristi Watson
28 years in the Triad Currently building in: Birkhaven • Dawn Acres • Knight’s Landing Riverside • Linville Ridge • Farms at Lake Brandt Woodrose • Arbor Run • Charles Place Bethel Ridge ...or on your lot!
Building in the Triad since 1992, R&K is a respected, multi-gold award-winning home builder. Having built over 400 homes ranging in price from the $400,000’s to $2 million, our wide range of construction types separates us from the others.
Visit our website for upcoming 2018 Parade of Homes entries
Every R&K home is built with out standing value, craftsmanship, extraordinary design and distinctive taste. We design your very own plans to suit your needs. You will find we walk you through every detail.
Looking to build? Call today to schedule a private custom home consultation
Rich & Kathy Dumas, owners
We are passionate about what we do... “Crafting Homes, Building Memories.” The challenge to produce the best never ceases.
GBA Gold Awards: 2000, 2002–2008 Lewis Award: 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2017 Builder of the Year: 2010
www.RandKCustomHomes.net | (336) 643-3503 • (336) 382-0728 Brought to you by Smith Marketing
Ask the
BUILDER
compiled by CHRIS BURRITT/NWO
As a custom homebuilder, what are some of the greatest challenges you’re currently facing? R&K Custom Homes “Our greatest challenge in the current economy is the lack of qualified Kathy and Rich Dumas subcontractors. When the recession hit, many people left the industry and did not return. Now our subs have half the workers and twice the work. Builders are willing to pay more to have someone on their site, but there are still not enough workers to go around for the amount of work available. “The second greatest challenge is the price of materials, which leads us to want to raise the cost (to homeowners) to cover them. But banks are not appraising homes high enough to allow for that, so instead our profit goes down.
“Thirdly, people see a lot of ideas on things like Pinterest and Houzz that they want to incorporate, but they do not realize the costs.”
Walraven Signature Homes “Right now, the costs of goods – lumber, other materials and labor – are extremely high. “We’ve been talking among our project Matt Walraven managers planning for the next little blip in the economy, because in our opinion prices can’t stay this high. A house that you could build for $450,000 not two years ago is now nearing $500,000. That is narrowing our pool of buyers. “There is also a shortage of qualified labor. For one, people are going to college and not taking up plumbing and the other trades because everyone
thinks you can’t make a living in the trades. But that’s just not the case. These guys are making good money.”
out of the state and there isn’t another influx of workers coming in to replace them.
Ray Bullins Construction
“The people who did stay and survive have all the work they want and can handle.”
“The cost of raw materials and labor are going up faster than the appraisers are willing to increase the value of homes. Land prices have also increased. Ray Bullins That’s crunching the builders’ profits. “To make as much money as you made three years ago, you need to build more houses. But there’s still only a fixed amount of buyers. Plus, there’s increased competition among builders because this northwest area is so desirable. “As for the labor shortage, as the economy slowed in 2007, a lot of the Hispanic labor went home or relocated
Disney Custom Homes
Patty Disney
“It appears there are quite a few neighborhoods popping up, but Greensboro and the northwest Guilford area in comparison to Charlotte and Raleigh have a long way to go.
“We’re not bringing in the jobs like the other areas. So we’re not seeing as much in terms of relocation buyers. “It’s a little puzzling that the market isn’t going along with all of the new roads and infrastructure. We do think there’s an opportunity for improvement here.”
Not your average home builder
Owners Ray & Lisa Bullins are here to help you from conception to completion
Quality construction with curb appeal Ray Bullins Construction Co., Inc. (336) 345-3263 | buildmanbrb@aol.com
raybullinsconstruction.com
(336) 215-0041 • www.lansinkcustomhomes.com
Brought to you by Smith Marketing
The Lansinks
TRANSACTIONS A+
The following are recent new and existing home sales for the northwest- and northern- Guilford County area. Home sales in and near
Granite starting at $29.95/sq. ft. installed
your neighborhood impact the current market value of your home.
Quartz starting at $45/sq. ft. installed
SUMMERFIELD
Locally owned and operated
Visit our showroom for FREE estimates!
Greensboro: 312 Dougherty St • (336) 574-2755 www.prostoneusa.com
20
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
FEATURED ON
6341 Poplar Forest Drive (Henson Forest) $566,000 6218 Windcrest Drive (Windcrest Acres) $170,000 5429 Broadleaf Road (Riley Village) $305,000 5613 Crooked Oak Drive (Woodvale) $320,000 6096 Windsor Farm Road (Trotter Ridge) $490,000 3406 Regina Court (Strawberry Hills Horse Farm) $245,000 6200 Windcrest Drive (Windcrest Acres) $305,000 4301 Vinsanto Way (Vineyards at Summerfield) $620,000 7066 Toscana Trace (Vineyards at Summerfield) $540,000 3212 Oak Ridge Road $178,000 7501 William Bailey Road (Elmhurst Estates) $380,000 5260 Bunch Road (20.26 acres) $427,500 4104 Oak Ridge Road $160,000 5205 Torney Court (Highland Grove South) $283,000 7905 Winterbourne Drive (Keston Downes) $515,000 5215 Torney Court (Highland Grove South) $277,000 5211 Torney Court (Highland Grove South) $316,500 6978 Toscana Trace (Vineyards at Summerfield) $632,000
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
5698 Snow Hill Drive (Henson Farms) $699,000 3204 Pasture View Drive (The Farm at Lake Brandt) $540,000 5311 Brookstead Drive (Highland Grove South) $316,000 7200 Henson Farm Way (Henson Farms) $464,000 5315 Brookstead Drive (Highland Grove South) $291,500 7510 Somersby Drive (Somerset) $295,000 1490 Bethan Drive (Lennox Woods) $490,000 5219 Torney Court (Highland Grove South) $292,500 5308 Brookstead Drive (Highland Grove South) $293,000 3297 Minglewood Trail (Waters Edge at Summerfield) $403,000
OAK RIDGE 5603 Red Fox Court (Foxbury North) $481,000 8207 Daltonshire Drive (Weatherstone) $175,000 8503 Crested Oak Court (Linville Oaks) $590,000 6366 Gumwood Road (Canter Cove) $520,000 8007 Ives Drive (Estates at Oak Ridge Lake) $435,000 7799 Panda Court (Bear Creek) $466,000 8203 E. Harrell Road (Fairview Acres) $150,000 5004 Robdot Drive (Stafford Farms Estates) $485,000
6503 Ashton Park Drive (Estates at Oak Ridge Lake) $155,000 6692 Currieton Drive (Stonehenge) $325,000 7505 Keating Drive (Weatherstone) $250,000 4912 Golden Oaks Drive (Golden Acres) $345,000 7025 Carriage Cove Drive (Carriage Cove) $462,000 6805 River Farm Drive (Riverside at Oak Ridge) $650,000 7796 Panda Court (Bear Creek) $523,000 7500 Kristen Drive (Huntcliff) $280,000
STOKESDALE
8500 Fulp Road $265,000 8203 Barbelo Drive (Angels Glen) $350,000 8736 Fulp Road (2.01 acres) $245,000 8320 McCrory Road (West Fall) $239,000 8505 Fieldstream Road (Crooked Creek) $236,000 7902 Carra Way (Northridge) $514,000
NW/NORTHERN GREENSBORO
3726 Moss Creek Drive (Cardinal Manor) $185,000 5193 Ashgrove Drive (Pleasant Ridge Farms West) $191,000 6313 Ridge Haven Road (Pleasant Ridge Farms West) $257,000 4406 Southport Road (Clarkes Landing at Cardinal Cove) $225,000 1050 Christmas Place (Oak Ridge Meadows) $159,000
BB&T opens facility ...continued from p. 12
that combines face-to-face and virtual sessions with interim activities during a four-week period, this highly experiential program focuses on developing stronger leaders in our education system. School leaders learn how beliefs drive behaviors and ultimately create results. The Leadership Institute’s new campus “provides an even greater opportunity to share all we’ve learned about leadership lessons for nearly half a century,” BB&T Chairman and CEO Kelly King said in the June 20 statement. “Our mission is to make the world a better place to live, and we believe one of the best ways to improve our communities is through stronger leaders in all facets of society.” Visit BBTLeadershipInstitute.com for more info.
REAL ESTATE BRIEFS
Town again named ‘most affordable’ city in North Carolina STOKESDALE – For the second straight year, SmartAsset.Com has named Stokesdale the most affordable city in North Carolina for housing in 2018. Two other area cities made the top 10: Lewisville, at No. 5, and Archdale at No. 8. Stokesdale was ranked second-best in 2016 behind Knightdale. Knightdale is No. 6 in the 2018 rankings. SmartAsset is a financial technology company that provides financial advice online about such topics as home-buying, retirement and taxes. It uses five criteria to determine an affordability index: Average closing costs; annual real-estate taxes; annual homeowners’ insurance; average annual mortgage payment; and median income. To see the entire list, go to SmartAsset.Com.
Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO
The Town of Oak Ridge recently negotiated to buy a 3.7-acre tract on Scoggins Road which is adjacent to the 58 acres on N.C. 150 it agreed in April to purchase from Frank and Claudia Whitaker. At the July 12 council meeting, Mayor Spencer Sullivan said the additional acreage on Scoggins Road is very valuable to the town because it allows for a much more desirable way to access the Whitaker property. “The only access to the Whitaker property (off Scoggins Road) was a 60-foot right-of-way on the far left side of Scoggins Road, and you would enter in the middle of a curve and the middle of a dip,” Sullivan said. The town will purchase the 3.7 acres for $110,880, with a closing date set for Sept. 4 to allow time to complete its due diligence.
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
21
BITS & PIECES
HPC approves third round of Historic Heritage Grants Oak Ridge’s Historic Preservation Commission approved its third round of annual Historic Heritage Grants last month. HPC Chair Debbie Shoenfeld said the grants are designed to strengthen and preserve Oak Ridge’s rich historic heritage by providing small scale, high-impact financial contributions to historic property owners. Of the grants, Benjamin Briggs of Preservation Greensboro stated, “Oak Ridge is exemplary in using grants to leverage additional investment in historic resources, with the understanding that restoration improves our tax base and tourism. This carefully administered program provides incentive for reinvestment and at the same time promotes pride of place!” This year’s grants total $6,000. Together with required matching funds of $35,122 contributed by property owners, the grants will support $41,122 in exterior improvements to key historic structures in Oak Ridge. This year’s grants bring total grant funding to $16,350, supporting $90,063 in exterior improvements over three years. The grants were awarded as follows: • $2,000 to the Oak Ridge Foundation for the exterior restoration of Maple Glade, a 113-year-old structure that is
one of the showpieces of Oak Ridge Military Academy’s campus and is the home of the school’s president. • $2,000 to St. James African Methodist Church to help make much-needed architectural repairs to the church’s soffits and fascias and to paint the entire structure. The church site was purchased in 1889 by Oak Ridge’s oldest AfricanAmerican congregation. Its sanctuary served as a classroom for African-American students until a schoolhouse was built nearby, circa 1915. The cemetery behind this historic church includes graves from the early 1900s. • $2,000 to the Old Mill of Guilford to help restore the stone wall which lines a road that once connected Alcorn Road to the Town of Oak Ridge. The road is an integral part of the mill’s history and has been photographed countless times. The Old Mill of Guilford is among the oldest operating gristmills in the country and is included on the National Register of Historic Places. Historic Heritage Grants are awarded by the HPC and funded by the Town of Oak Ridge. For more info, call Oak Ridge Town Clerk Sandra Smith, (336) 644-7009, or HPC Chair Debbie Shoenfeld, (336) 643-2504.
Welcoming new patients Hours
Monday- Friday 7:30 am - 5:30 pm Existing patient walk-ins welcome Accepting most insurance plans
Kip Corrington, md Patients of all ages
Ashley Michaels, pa-c Marsha White, agnp-c Patients of all ages Patients ages 13+
Northwest Family Medicine (336) 643-3378 • 7607-B Hwy 68 N, Oak Ridge
22
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO
William Clinard, an employee of Urban Ministry Food Bank in Greensboro, loads up food items donated by Lowes Foods and its customers in Oak Ridge Commons shopping center on the morning of July 12.
Red Cross issues urgent call for blood and platelet donors GUILFORD COUNTY – An emergency blood shortage is prompting the American Red Cross to issue an urgent call for eligible donors of all blood types – especially type O – to give now and help save lives.
hospitals faster than they come in.
“Each and every day, individuals across the country depend on blood and platelet donations for lifesaving treatments and emergency The Red Cross escalated itsOverview call for care, so it’sposter critical that people donate This contains the most basic blood and platelet donors after a difnow to meet these needs,” said Cliff system and should be used as a refe ficult Independence Day week for dona- Numark, senior vice president, Red (available on redcross.org/brand). tions. More than 550 fewer blood drives Cross Blood Services. “Whether you’ve were organized by businesses and other never donated or give a couple of times Logoofsuitea year, you’re needed to give as soon community groups during the week Button logo family July 4 than during a typical week as inas possible to help save patient lives. dividuals across the country celebrated Yours may be the donation a patient is the holiday and enjoyed summer activicounting on.” ties. This could equate to as many as To schedule an appointment to 15,000 fewer donations than needed, donate, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call causing donations to be distributed to 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
Bra
The button logo was inspired by a vintage pin as an engaging symbol of enthusiastic participation. It is a personal, grassroots and unique expression for the Red Cross. Use this logo in any of its three forms for most printed marketing and communications materials as well as television, Web and email.
Print minimum sizes
Digital minimum sizes
BUSINESS notes Welcome to our new advertiser!
L & T Small Engine Service L & T Small Engine Service started in 2015 as a hobby, with neighbors helping neighbors and friends. “Word spread and we opened our shop in 2016,” said Tom Wright, who owns the business with his wife, Laura. Unlike many other repair businesses, Wright said L & T Small Engine Service is not brand-specific – the business offers small engine service and repairs on all brands of mowers, yard equipment, go-carts, scooters, pressure
washers, etc. Also, the Wrights live in Oak Ridge, are committed to the community, and offer services that many others do not. L & T Small Engine Service’s business philosophy is “Customer Tom & Laura Wright service above all else!” “We believe in communicating with our customers prior to any repair or service work getting started, and to keeping our customers well-informed,” Tom Wright said. On a personal note: Tom and Laura have been mar-
ried for 32 years and they have a son, Justin, who works in their business. “Family is the most important thing in our lives,” Tom Wright said. “Through our family-based business, we do charitable work for those less fortunate. We believe in community involvement and pay it forward when we have the opportunity.” The Wrights enjoy camping whenever they can, and Tom and Laura are avid bowlers. Tom, who is retired from the Navy, plays folk guitar and also enjoys playing golf.
L&T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE
See ad on p. 28.
2103 Oak Ridge Rd. • Oak Ridge
landtsmallengineservice.com
gems in
downtown Stokesdale
Pickup and delivery available Owners: Tom and Laura Wright
(336) 298-4314
Beat the next round of price increases. Pre-plan and pre-pay for your funeral
Forbis&Dick Funeral Homes
Stokesdale 8320 Hwy 158, (336) 643-3711 Greensboro 1118 N Elm St, (336) 275-8408 5926 W Friendly Ave, (336) 299-9171
Locally owned & operated • Serving Stokesdale, Greensboro, Oak Ridge & Summerfield
Accounting & Tax Accounting Bookkeeping Payroll Tax Preparation Notary Public Copy Center
Anne M. Garner, EA 8304-C Hwy 158, Stokesdale (336) 441-8325 • annegarner605@gmail.com
INGLE LAW, PLLC We are engaged in the general practice of law, including personal injury claims, business formation, misdemeanor criminal defense, family law, estate work and residential/commercial real estate closings.
Ronald D. Ingle, Jr. Individual & Small Business Bookkeeping & Payroll Individual & Corporate Tax Returns PO Box 469 • 8400 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale
(336) 644.2741 • kim.thacker@att.net
Ronnie@inglelawoffice.com
Stephen Coe
Steve@inglelawoffice.com
Stokesdale office located at: 8512 US Highway 158 Kernersville office: P.O. Box 2474, Kernersville, NC 27284 Danbury office: 603 Main Street, Danbury, NC 27016
(336) 497-1680 • www.IngleLawOffice.com
Who will be the voice for this child? Over 250 children in Guilford County will go to court alone. Learn how to be an advocate for an abused or neglected child by becoming a Guardian Ad Litem.
National Night Out If your neighborhood would like to participate in National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 7, call the Guilford County Sheriff’s Community Resource Office at (336) 641-3378 so the department can make sure officers stop by your location.
“Any neighborhood can participate ... and it’s a great way to get to know your neighbors and law enforcement officers better!” said Sgt. T.P. Popek of the Sheriff’s Office. “Also, give us a call if you’d like to start a Community Watch program.”
CRIME / INCIDENT report
(336) 412-7580 | volunteerforgal.org
Guilford County Sheriff’s Office, District 1 has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest Guilford County.
BURGLARY
Smile in a day! For a single-tooth crown or a full-arch implant-retained smile (All-on-4), let us help you regain your smile and self-confidence in one day!
July 13 | A resident of County Line Road in Kernersville reported that sometime between 10 a.m. on July 13 and 5 p.m. on July 15, someone forcibly entered his home and stole a crossbow, a laptop and coins with a total value of about $1,720. July 16 | A resident of the 8300 block of Prince Edward Road in Stokesdale reported an unknown suspect(s) forced open a side door of her home sometime between 5:30 p.m. on July 13 and 12:50 a.m. on July 16 and stole a television and a jewelry box containing several pieces of jewelry.
VANDALISM July 13 | A patron of Bill’s Pizza Pub on N.C. 68 in Oak Ridge reported that while he was in the restaurant, sometime between 7 and 7:30 p.m., someone poured Coke on his truck and keyed the backpassenger door.
ARRESTS/CITATIONS
Learn more about us at
drdevaney.com
(336) 643-5515
1580 Hwy 68 N, Oak Ridge
24
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
July 11 | A 48-year-old woman and known offender was cited around 12:45 a.m. in the 5700 block of U.S. 220 in Summerfield for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after being found to have a glass pipe, mirror and Chore Boy. According to Urban Dictionary, Chore Boy, a brand name for a scouring pad, is often used by people smoking crack cocaine to retain some of the cocaine vapors. July 11 | A resident of the 7100 block of Rabbit Hollow Road in Summerfield reported a known suspect took her 1996 Honda Accord hatchback from her home; a 55-year-old woman was later ar-
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
rested for Larceny of a Motor Vehicle. July 11 | A male resident of the 3800 block of Oak Ridge Road in Summerfield was cited around 2:30 a.m. near the corner of Waterton Road and Strawberry Road for having an open container of alcohol. July 13 | A 30-year-old female and known offender was cited around 2:33 a.m. in the 300 block of Plainfield Road in Summerfield for Simple Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Driver Consuming on a Public Vehicular Area. July 16 | A 47-year-old man and known offender was cited for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia pursuant to a traffic stop in the 8200 block of N.C. 68 in Stokesdale. July 16 | A 20-year-old male resident of the 6100 block of Trotter Lane in Oak Ridge was cited in the Ellisboro Road and Gideon Grove Road area of Stokesdale for Possession of Marijuana after his car was searched during a traffic stop and he was found with 7.63 grams of marijuana having a street value of about $100. July 17 | A 33-year-old male resident and known offender of the 200 block of Dan River Church Road in Eden was found to be in possession of marijuana during a traffic stop in the 8000 block of N.C. 68 North in Stokesdale and cited for Simple Possession of Marijuana. July 17 | A 39-year-old female resident of the 8300 block of Knight Village Circle in Stokesdale was cited around 1:19 a.m. for a rear lamp violation and arrested for DWI during a traffic stop near her home.
mark your
calendar
Dr. Julie Packard Dr. Emily Westmoreland (336) 665-1286 www.bel-airevet.com
• Full-service animal hospital • Boarding & grooming • Laser therapy & acupuncture
Serving the NW Triad area since 1991
EVOLUTION OF OUR LOGO
1996
REGISTER NOW
zz Vacation Bible School | Oak Ridge United Meth-
odist Church, 2424 Oak Ridge Road in Oak Ridge, is hosting “Shipwrecked! Rescued by Jesus!” Vacation Bible School July 29 to Aug. 3, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Register online at www.oakridgeumc.org/events or call (336) 643-4690.
2000
zz Junior Cheer Camp | Northern Guilford High staff
Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC 30 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 www.samanderscpa.com
and varsity cheerleaders will offer a cheer camp for kindergarten- through fifth-grade students; camp will be held at Northern High School, 7101 Spencer Dixon Road in northern Greensboro, July 30 – Aug. 3, 1:30 to 5 p.m. each day. Cost is $100 for the week, which includes camp T-shirt, instruction, water and snack each day. For camp application form or questions, email truonge@gcsnc.com.
2013
THURSDAY, JULY 19
zz Parks and Recreation Commission meeting |
The Oak Ridge Parks and Recreation Commission will meet July 19, 7 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road, Oak Ridge. More info: www.oakridgenc.com or (336) 644-7009.
calendar events submit your
by 5:30 pm Friday before each issue
email us at calendarevents@nwobserver.com
TUESDAY, JULY 24
zz Mountains-to-Sea Trail Committee meeting | Oak
Ridge’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail Committee will meet July 24, 6 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road, Oak Ridge. More info: www.oakdridgenc.com or (336) 644-7009.
2018
WEDNESDAY, JULY 25
zz Preservation Oak Ridge meeting | The Preserva-
tion Oak Ridge group will meet July 25, 5:30 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road, Oak Ridge. More info: Doug Nodine, (336) 209-1999. zz Trails and Open Space Committee meeting
| Summerfield’s Trails and Open Space Committee meets 6 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Summerfield Town Hall, 4117 Oak Ridge Road in Summerfield. More info: www.summerfieldgov.com or (336) 643-8655.
THURSDAY, JULY 26 (336) 383-1715 budgetblinds.com Blinds • Shades • Shutters • Drapes • Home Automation
zz Planning and Zoning Board meeting | The Oak
Ridge Planning and Zoning Board will meet July 26, 7 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road, Oak Ridge. More info: www.oakridgenc.com or (336) 644-7009.
Bringing the local news home to northwest Guilford County since 1996 For advertising information, contact Laura Reneer (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 advertising@nwobserver.com
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
25
Carpet Vinyl Tile
Hardwood Laminate Area Rugs
(336) 288-6643
(336) 288-6643
LOWEST PRICES
Solid 2¼” Hardwood
2
$
99
sq. ft.*
PERIOD 12mm 8mm Laminate Laminate
1
(pad attached)
$ 69
sq. ft.*
*limited supply
69 ¢ sq. ft.*
*limited supply
Carpet
99 ¢ sq. ft.* *limited supply
1 YEAR
PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION
interest free financing with approved credit
Call today and we’re on our way!
Cannot be combined with any other offer
SERVING NORTH & SOUTH CAROLINA SINCE 1960 Greensboro • Wilmington • Myrtle Beach
(336) 288-6643
2837 Battleground Avenue, Greensboro Mon - Fri 8 am - 6 pm • Sat 10 am - 4 pm
carpetsbydirect.com
26
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
GRINS and GRIPES Delighted or dismayed by something in your community?
Jimmy Goots (Cowboy Pools). He has taught me more about taking care of my above-ground pool than anyone else in the last 18 years.
Share your thoughts in
GRIPES to...
40
words or less
online: nwobserver.com e-mail: grinsandgripes @nwobserver.com Grins & Gripes are published based on available space and editor’s discretion.
GRINS to...
Faye Fox, who bought ice cream for my family at the gas station in Oak Ridge. What a nice gesture from a complete stranger – thank you! Andrew Broom for his superb speech at the last Summerfield Town Council meeting regarding Summerfield’s newest council members. Appreciate your service and quest to expose the truth, and hope more people realize what’s really happening in our town. Oak Ridge Military Academy faculty and staff. Thanks so much for all you do for the cadets! You do a fabulous job and are truly concerned about them and their development. They and their parents are so lucky to have you. The staff at Subway in Stokesdale who kept my wallet safe and intact after I left it on the counter at closing. The morning staff asked customers if anyone knew me to track me down – thank you! Gerald Freeman for his kind heart and his wonderful cake-baking skills. He has been so kind to share his delicious cakes – along with his smiling face and sweet spirit – with the staff at Stokesdale Town Hall. Town of Summerfield staff for a wonderful weekend – Friday night was Volunteer Appreciation Night and Saturday night was Music in the Park. You all are the best! Duke Energy employees. Thanks to Greg for checking my meter and going out of his way to be helpful when I was resolving electrical issues, and to the crew for their hard work in restoring power last Thursday.
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
Todd Rotruck, for costing the Town of Summerfield $53,879.88 because he misrepresented that he lived here. The citizens would like to see him pay those legal fees back! Mayor Gail Dunham of Summerfield, for not responding to the email copy requests mentioned on NWO’s front page last week. You once bombarded former town clerks with such demands. How is it with the shoe on your foot now? NCDOT for leaving a mess on the shoulder of Stanley Huff Road. The drivers and homeowners who have to deal with this don’t appreciate the way it was left. NCDOT needs to fix this or the town should get involved. Duke Energy for subjecting 57 customers to more power outages due to recurring power line breaks between the pole behind 8031 Fogleman Rd. to the pole on 8013 Fogleman Rd. Thursday’s outage was the second in two years. ORFD Chief Steve Simmons, for his condescending reply in last week’s issue. If you are staffed 24/7, why is testing the “sound of safety” at 7:15 a.m. the best time? To Dwayne Crawford, et al., quoted in the NWO, for complaining that the special Summerfield info session on forms of town government was “premature.” The time for voters to become informed is now, before November elections. Forewarned is forearmed, Summerfield. Oak Ridge Fire Chief Steve Simmons, for defending his department’s practice of awaking and alarming the town every morning at 7:15 a.m. to check his sirens and horns, instead of checking them at noon. NGMS principal Karen Ellis for changing the student drop-off time to 8:15 a.m. Your new time is not a solution to the problem, and students will continue to be dropped off prior to 8:15. A better answer is needed!
AUTO SALES & SERVICE
EMPLOYMENT
SAVE THE DATE
EUROPEAN AUTO SERVICE & REPAIR We specialize in factory-scheduled maintenance and repairs. Mercedes, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Volvo, Mini and Porsche. 32 years experience. Knight Import Specialty Service, 4559 US Highway 220, Summer-field (across from Food Lion). (336) 337-0669.
HELP WANTED for The Garden Outlet. Call (336) 643-0898.
"WALK WITH A DOC." Join this month's free community walk on Saturday, July 28, 8:00am, at Oak Ridge Town Park. You'll take a few minutes to learn about a current health topic, then enjoy a healthy walk and conversation with a doctor. Every walk is FREE and pre-registration is not required. Email any questions to walkoakridgenc@ gmail.com.
EMPLOYMENT STAFF POSITIONS AVAILABLE in August at local childcare. Assistants, teachers, cooks and substitutes. Call (336) 643-5930.
Place online at
DEADLINE: Monday prior to each issue
NEED HELP? Call (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 Mon - Fri • 9am -2pm
INDEX
Auto Sales & Service ................... 27 Employment ............................... 27 Childcare Available...................... 27 Homecare Available ................... 27 Save the Date ............................. 27 Yard Sales .................................. 27 Home Services ......................27-29Misc. Services.............................. 29 Misc. For Sale ............................. 29 Misc. Wanted .............................. 29 Pets & Animal Services ........... 29-30 Real Estate .................................. 30
WAREHOUSE EMPLOYEES needed for Carson-Dellosa Publishing Company. Must be 18 and willing to work in a fast-paced warehouse environment. Competitive pay and flexible hours. Perfect job for students! Contact Human Resources, (336) 632-0084 or (336) 808-3225. 657A Brigham Road, Greensboro, near Pleasant Ridge Road. NIGHT-TIME SECURITY GUARD / MAINTENANCE PERSON. Local retirement community seeks responsible person to secure buildings, perform regular rounds and provide light housekeeping/maintenance duties as needed. Must be able to work with limited supervision. Excellent compensation package. Apply in person at Countryside Manor, 7700 U.S. Hwy. 158, Stokesdale.
Gca?n help! HIRIN e W
Reach over 26,600 readers, all in northwest Guilford County, right here! Place your classified ad online at
nwobserver.com
ELECTRICAL HELPER needed for electrical contractor ASAP for residential work. Pay negotiable. Call (336) 643-3800 or (336) 669-8335. F/T GENERAL SERVICE automotive position – oil/lube tech, tire changes, etc. Competitive pay, DOE. M&M Tire & Auto, at 5570 Spotswood Circle, Summerfield. Apply in person only – no phone calls please.
BILL'S PIZZA PUB in Oak Ridge is now hiring for day and night-time positions as manager, host/hostess, and cook. Come on in and fill out an application today! PART-TIME ASST. TEACHER needed for fall at popular preschool program. HS diploma a must. Exper. strongly preferred. Appr. 18 hrs./week. Send resume/letter to preschooljob2018@gmail.com.
CHILDCARE AVAILABLE IN-HOME CHILDCARE AVAILABLE. Mon.Fri. from 6am to 6pm. Ages: Infant to five years old. I have two openings currently available. Stokesdale / Belews Creek area. Please contact me at (336) 312-3042.
HOMECARE AVAILABLE SENIOR CARE PROVIDER AVAILABLE Will take to dr. appts., companionship, light meal prep., errands, hygiene, assist in daily care/activities to help you live comfortably at home. Great references! (336) 898-1130. NIGHT-SHIFT CAREGIVER AVAILABLE, Experienced with excellent ref. Call (336) 707-5245.
SAVE THE DATE LULA-ROEING FOR DUCKS. Pick a piece, pluck a duck. Join Lularoe & other vendors Saturday, July 21, from 11am-4pm at the Oak Ridge Room, Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center, Oak Ridge. STOKESDALE FIRE DISTRICT INC. will hold its annual meeting on Tuesday, July 24, 2018, at 7:30pm at the fire station (8401 U.S. Hwy. 158). The annual report (financial and operational) will be given and the election of six board members will be held. Current vehicle registration may be required for proof of voter eligibility if vehicle tax is the only tax paid into the Stokesdale Fire District.
The Northwest Observer • Totally since 1996 The Northwest Observer • Totally locallocal since 1996
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL. Saturday, August 4, 9am-1pm at Gideon Grove UMC, 2865 Gideon Grove Church Rd., Stokesdale. Theme: "Jesus Loves the Little Children." Lunch provided. Call Laura for more information at (336) 643-6042. VENDORS WANTED for annual Mayodan "What the Hay" Fest. Saturday, Oct. 13, from 10am-9pm. For more info and sign-up form email whatthehayfest2018@yahoo.com.
YARD SALES LARGE YARD SALE, Saturday, July 21, 7am-2pm at 1609 Brown Rd., Summerfield. Antique glassware, handmade quilts, housewares and home health care supplies.
Planning a yard sale?
The Northwest Observer reaches over 25,000 readers right in your neighborhood every week! Place your ad online at www.nwobserver.com.
Monday is the deadline!
HOME SERVICES CLEANING SANDRA'S CLEANING SERVICE. 10 years exp., good refs. (336) 423-3196. CLEANING SERVICES. I have eighteen years of experience and have recently moved back home to the Triad. References provided. Call Kristan at (336) 908-0850 for a sparkling home.
... continued on p. 28
JULY1919- 25, - 25,2018 2018 JULY
27 27
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
CLEANING
GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES
GRADING / HAULING
AQUA SYSTEMS IRRIGATION. Quality irrigation systems. NC licensed contractor. We service all systems. Free estimates. (336) 644-1174.
OLGA'S HOUSEKEEPING SERVICE. If it needs to be done, I'll do it. If it needs to be cleaned; I'll clean it. References available. (336) 289-0008. CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING Gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. windowcleaningnc.com (336) 595-2873. DREAM AND CLEAN. Cleaning services for commercial and residential homes with 17 years experience. Call (336) 491-1203 or visit www.dreamandclean.com. FLORY'S CLEANING SERVICE. We do the work, you relax and take it easy. Get the best job in town at rates you can afford. 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Call (336) 666-4701. NIDIA’S CLEANING SERVICE. 10 years experience. Call Nidia (336) 362-4173. MAID-2-SHINE. Excellent service, 15 years experience. Free estimates, excellent references. (336) 338-0223. CastleWorks WINDOW CLEANING Includes gutters, pressure washing, chandeliers and other high ladder work. Fully insured and bonded, free estimates. (336) 609-0677. www.castleworkswindowcleaning.com. MAIDS OF HONOR HOME CLEANING $25 off! Locally owned, bonded staff. 40 years in service. BBB A+ rating. (336) 708-2407.
DECORATING EXPERIENCED INTERIOR DECORATOR & personal furniture shopper will help you with style, color, shopping & furniture placement. E-mail appeninc@gmail.com or call Ann Appenzeller, (336) 314-1411.
ELECTRICAL BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC. Got Power? Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192. Do you have ELECTRICAL NEEDS? Rodney A. Coble, licensed electrician. Monday-Saturday. Call (336) 209-1486.
28 28
JULY 2018 JULY1919- 25, - 25, 2018
L&T SMALL
E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Driveways, fill dirt, demolition, lot clearing, excavating, bobcat work, etc. (336) 451-1282.
2103 Oak Ridge Rd. • Oak Ridge
PEARMAN QUARRY HAULING Fill dirt, gravel, sand rock, mulch & more. Joel Richardson, (336) 803-2195.
ENGINE SERVICE
landtsmallengineservice.com Pickup and delivery available Owners: Tom and Laura Wright
(336) 298-4314 Affordable HOME REPAIRS. One call fixes all! A+ with BBB. For a free estimate, call (336) 643-1184 or (336) 987-0350. GREENERTIMES SMALL ENGINE Sales & Service Center. All types sold and repaired; comm./res. 9428 NC Hwy. 65, Stokesdale. (336) 548-9286 or (336) 312-3844. GARY’S HANDYMAN HOME SERVICES “Providing value for the home-ownership experience.” Gary Gellert, serving NC’s Piedmont Triad area. Garygellert@gmail.com, (336) 423-8223.
The Northwest Observer 21 years and still counting!! Thanks for your continued support. FIX YOUR MOWER. Pickup and delivery. Call or text Rick, (336) 501-8681. APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707. WELDING REPAIR, You already broke it, how much more damage can I do? Call Morris, (336) 880-7498.
OLD SCHOOL
HOME REPAIR /IMPROVEMENTS “No Job Too Small”
Wood Rot Repairs • Bathroom Remodeling Painting • Decks and much more! • Insured
GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, fill dirt, gravel, etc. (336) 362-1150. BRAD’S BOBCAT & HAULING SVCS. LLC Debris removal, grading, gravel/dirt, driveways, concrete work. (336) 362-3647. ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt. available. Zane Anthony, (336) 362-4035.
LAWNCARE / LANDSCAPING SUITS LAWNCARE is now offering mowing, trimming, edging, blowing and other basic lawncare for a minimum of $35. For free estimate, call Nathan at (336) 830-2458. COLFAX LAWNCARE Core aeration & seeding. Fertilizing, mowing, trimming, pine needles. Complete lawn care maintenance. Res./comm. Fully insured. Serving the Triad for 28 years. (336) 362-5860. BUSH-HOGGING. Call (336) 707-2272 for estimates. AREA STUMP DUMP. Yard waste, concrete, etc. Fill dirt avail. (336) 602-5820. ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call (336) 382-9875. ORTIZ LANDSCAPING, complete lawn care. Trimming, cleaning, planting & mulch, gutter cleaning, patios & pavers, waterfalls, retaining walls, sidewalks, stonework. Residential and commercial. (336) 280-8981. DELIMA LAWNCARE Free estimates. Licensed & insured. (336) 669-5210.
Contact us for a free estimate!
(336) 669-7252
oldschoolsjhr@triad.rr.com
GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490.
The The Northwest Observer • Totally local local since since 1996 1996 Northwest Observer • Totally
FAY'S LAWNCARE & LANDSCAPING Complete landscape maintenance & hardscaping. Tree work. Reasonable & honest. Call Taylor, (336) 458-6491. FORESTRY MULCHING Cheaper and eco-friendly alternative compared to your traditional land clearing! (336) 362-6181, www.ncforestrymulching.com. CUTTING EDGE LAWNCARE. Affordable. Dependable. Mowing, aeration, leaf removal and more! Please call anytime for free estimate, (336) 706-0103. ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Bobcat work and more. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. Call Joe at 643-9157.
Get. Be. Stay. Connected.
facebook.com/NorthwestObserver CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, (336) 643-9332. www.carolinaStumpAndTreeServices.com. STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Lic./Ins. 30 yrs. exp. Bucket truck & chipper, total cleanup. Selective thinning & lot clearing. 24-hr. ER. (336) 643-1119. STOKESDALE LAWN Mowing & weedeating. $45 minimum. (336) 840-8164. WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Lawn maint, landscaping. Irrigation/ landscape contractor. Hardscaping & landscape lighting. 26 years exp. (336) 399-7764.
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
HOME SERVICES
SOUTHERN CUTS LAWN CARE Affordable and dependable, complete lawn maintenance services. 13 years experience. Mowing, pruning, pine needles, mulch, aeration, seeding, leaf removal and more! Call Nathan Adkins, (336) 500-1898.
CARLOS & SON PAINTING, interior & exterior. Free est., lic/ins. (336) 669-5210.
DOUGLAS CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING, LLC. Custom Builder, sunrooms, garages, additions, kitchens baths. Licensed & Insured, BBB A+ accredited. Free est.. Visit www.douglascr.com or call (336) 413-5050.
A.L. CORMAN ROOFING INC. Res. roofing specialist serving Guilford Cty. area since 1983. BBB 25+ years w/ A+ rating. cormanroofinginc.com, (336) 621-6962.
BEK Paint Co. Residential & Commercial
WE DO IT ALL WITH PRIDE! For low rates on lawn service, call (336) 404-3983.
David & Judy Long, owners
EXTERIOR GREENSCAPES, LLC Lawn maintenance service. Call for your quote today. (336) 682-1456.
BEKPaintCompany.com
Tell our readers about your business! Your ad will reach every mailbox with an Oak Ridge, Summerfield and Stokesdale mailing address. EVERY mailbox! Call (336) 644-7035, ext. 10.
MASONRY MASONRY CONCEPTS, brick, block, stone concrete & repairs. Free est. (336) 988-1022, www.masonryconceptsgso.com. SOUTHERN STYLE concrete & landscapes. How about a new patio or fire pit? We can help with all of your outdoor living and entertainment spaces! Fire pits, driveways & sidewalks, patios and more! Give us a call at (336) 399-6619 for all your concrete and landscape needs.
MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS GRILLS, FIRE PITS, tankless water heaters. General home repairs. Call Don Hill, (336) 643-7183.
PAINTING & DRYWALL CINDY’S PAINTING Interior painting, wallpaper removal. References & free estimates available. (336) 708-9155.
(336) 931-0600
• References Available • Licensed & Insured • All Work Guaranteed
LAWSON'S PAINTING. Custom decks, pressure washing, boat docks, block fill, wood repair, stain work, textured ceilings, sheetrock repair. Call (336) 253-9089.
PLUMBING WEBSTER & SONS PLUMBING, Inc. (336) 992-2503. Licensed, insured, bonded. 24/7 service. Plumbing, drain cleaning, well pumps. Give us a call, we do it all! Go to www.webstersplumbing.com for more info. BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic. & insured. Call Mark, (336) 337-7924.
PRESSURE WASHING PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Fully insured. Crystal Clear, www. windowcleaningnc.com (336) 595-2873. CUTTING EDGE PRESSURE WASHING Affordable. Dependable. Please call anytime for free estimate, (336) 706-0103.
REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION
PAINTING – INTERIOR & EXTERIOR 32 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. No job too small. Insured. Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186.
HAMMERSMITH WOODWORKING LLC. Carpentry, custom cabinetry, built-ins, stairways, exterior & deck repairs. Over 30 years experience. Call Carlton, (336) 404-3002.
STILL PERFECTION PAINTING Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com.
ORTIZ REMODELING – Total restoration & home improvement. Drywall, painting, kitchen cabinets, interior trim & more. Free estimates. (336) 280-8981.
JLB REMODELING, INC. Remodeling and additions. Fully insured. NC GC license #69997. Free est. Call (336) 681-2902 or visit www.jlbremodeling.com. RENOVATION WORKS, INC. New construction, remodeling, additions, kitchen, bath and decks. We are a locally owned, full-service design and build company, A+ accredited with the BBB. Visit www.myrenovationworks.com or call (336) 427-7391 to start your next project. BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, dock work, siding, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Sr. disc., 39 years exp. (336) 362-6343. KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Specializing in room additions, kitchens & baths, 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 (336) 362-7469.
ROOFING CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC Residential roofing, rubber flat roofs, roof coating, metal roofs. 30 years experience. Now accepting all major credit cards. Call (336) 643-8191 or (336) 580-3245.
MISC. SERVICES SAM’S AUTO BODY SHOP. Any type of body work. 45 years exp. (336) 347-7470. SHILOH LANDSCAPE EXCAVATIONS offers an array of mini excavator and skid-steer services. Give us a call today for free estimates: (336) 340-2732.
MISC. FOR SALE TWO MOTORCYCLES FOR SALE. 1999 Harley Road King, like new, includes many extras, $6,000. 1997 Yamaha Royal Star, excellent condition, needs nothing, $2,500. Call (336) 314-2885 or (336) 643-9197. FOR SALE. Sanibel i35 Cardio Core elliptical by Yowza Fitness. Excellent condition. $800/obo. (336) 430-8579. MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS FOR SALE. True brand P5X elliptical (gym quality), $500. Keys ST300 strength trainer, $300. Trotter treadmill, $300. Wine rack, $50; dining set, $400; armoire, $100. Can text pictures. (336) 644-6175.
MISC. WANTED $$$ – WILL PAY CASH for your junk or wrecked vehicle. For quote, call (336) 552-0328.
RED RHINO ROOFING, based in Oak Ridge, NC. Storm damage specialist experienced with all types of roofing. BBB accredited A and listed with Angie’s List. Call (336) 944-6118, or visit redrhinoroofing.com.
FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, all gas items, tillers, go-carts & golf carts, ATVs, generators, power washers, chain saws and some grills. (336) 689-4167.
ROOFING, ROOFING, ROOFING! Best prices in town! Shingle and metal roofing. Top-notch quality. Res./comm., lic. & ins. Belews Creek Construction, (336) 362-6343.
PETS & ANIMAL SVCS.
KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Residential shingle & metal roofing. Free est. (336) 362-7469.
The Northwest Observer • Totally since 1996 The Northwest Observer • Totally locallocal since 1996
AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION FREE CATS. Seven feral cats need a new home. Call (336) 854-5350.
...continued on p. 30 JULY19 19- -25, 25,2018 2018 JULY
29 29
PETS & ANIMAL SVCS.
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
HOMES FOR SALE
Are you thinking of doing a FSBO?
Let’s talk! Gil Vaughan REALTOR ®/Broker
READY FOR ADOPTION. Frank is a 3-year-old male retriever/Lab mix. He is
(336) 337-4780 Each office is independently owned and operated
JustCallGil.com
crate-trained, housebroken and knows basic commands. To meet Frank, visit Red Dog Farm at www.reddogfarm.com.
PET PRODUCTS
OPEN HOUSE: Sun, July 22 • 2- 4pm
HOMES FOR SALE OPEN HOUSE: Sun, July 22 • 2- 4pm
HAPPY JACK. Use DD-33 to control fleas
3287 Minglewood Trail
Vacation at home! Enjoy a private swimming pool, home theatre, chef’s kitchen and much more! $579,900
For superior marketing, call Ramilya Siegel CRS, GRI, SRES, Chairman’s Circle Award ( 336 ) 215.9856
& ticks on dogs & cats topically. Quicker kill.
ramilya.siegel@atcmail.com www.allentate.com/RamilyaSiegel
Longer residual. Biodegradable! At Tractor Supply or visit www.kennelvax.com.
REAL ESTATE
Selling or renting? The Northwest Observer reaches over 11,400 mailboxes in Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Stokesdale every week. Plus, it’s available for free online and at local restaurants, grocery stores, post offices and more.
We’ll help you reach northwest Guilford County!
REAL ESTATE LAND FOR SALE LOTS FOR SALE. Southern Rockingham Cty. with Summerfield address. Bethany Elementary School. Large 2- to 4-acre home sites. Eight 10-acre estate sites. Beautifully wooded and open land with gentle terrain. Ponds, streams on some tracts. Now being offered at pre-development 20% discount prices. Call now to make appointment and
5689 Pepper Road, Oak Ridge
Immaculate one-owner home, shows like a model, built by Otey, quiet cul-de-sac, stunning kitchen and screened porch! Must see. $469,000
For superior marketing, call Ramilya Siegel CRS, GRI, SRES, Chairman’s Circle Award ( 336 ) 215.9856
ramilya.siegel@atcmail.com www.allentate.com/RamilyaSiegel
reserve your future dream property. Tracts starting at $29,600. Two lots also available in N. Guilford Co. Call (336) 430-9507 anytime.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Need advertising information? Contact advertising@nwobserver.com or call (336) 644-7035 ext. 11 to find out about our monthly
We Help Everyone! SELLERS & BUYERS
(336) 643-4248
www.ANewDawnRealty.com
30 30
JULY 2018 JULY1919- 25, - 25, 2018
Business and Real Estate section.
5207 Beaver Pond Drive Custom built by Brian Disney in The Reserve. 4 beds on main level, 3 baths plus a bonus upstairs. Covered porch with fireplace and TV. Oak Ridge and NW Schools. Take Hwy 68 N, L on Hwy 150, L on Bridghead Rd. $515,000.
DeDe Cunningham REALTOR®/Broker NC Licensed Contractor
(336) 509-1923 dedesrealestategroup.com dedecunningham@kw.com
Realtors, get your real estate listings noticed “ by placing showcase ads in our classifieds. Contact me for more info.” Laura Reneer, marketing manager (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 • advertising@nwobserver.com
The The Northwest Observer • Totally local local since since 1996 1996 Northwest Observer • Totally
Place your real estate ad today (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 advertising@nwobserver.com
DeVaney Dentistry ............................. 24 Summerfield Family Dentistry ............ 10
Ingle Law........................................... 23
Please support our advertisers,
EXERCISE ACTIVITIES/GYM
LeBauer Healthcare ........................... 5 Novant - NW Family Medicine ........... 22
and tell them where you saw their ad!
FUNERAL SERVICE
ACCOUNTING
FURNITURE
index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS
By the Book Accounting .................... 23 Kimberly Thacker Accounting............ 23 Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC..... 25
ART/DANCE/KARATE Northern Arts Studio ........................... 3
AUTO SERVICES Vestal Buick GMC, Inc. ...................... 20
BUILDERS Builders MD....................................... 21 Dezern Construction Inc. ................... 14
Disney Custom Homes ...................... 14 Don Mills Builders .............................. 15 Johnson & Lee..............................16, 17 Lansink Custom Homes..................... 19 Naylor Custom Homes ...................... 16 R&K Custom Homes ......................... 18 Ray Bullins Construction .................... 19 Walraven Signature Homes ............... 14
YMCA of Greensboro ........................7,8
MEDICAL CARE
GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES
Forbis & Dick, Stokesdale .................. 23
Midtown Furniture ............................. 32
HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES
L&T Small Engine Service .................. 28
PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital .............. 25 Northwest Animal Hospital ................. 6 Westergaard Kennels ........................ 12
REAL ESTATE
Guardian Ad Litem Program ............. 24
BEK Paint Company .......................... 29 Budget Blinds ................................... 25 Carpets by Direct .............................. 26 Old School Home Repair .................. 28 Pest Management Systems Inc. ........... 4 Prostone Inc. .................................... 20 Stokesdale Heating & Air .................... 2
DENTAL SERVICES
LEGAL SERVICES
SCHOOL
Bordon Dentistry.................................. 9
Barbour & Williams Law ...................... 3
Oak Level Baptist Academy ................. 2
CHILDREN’S SERVICES
A New Dawn Realty .......................... 30 Berkshire Hathaway Yost & Little ....... 13 Dede Cunningham, Keller Williams .. 12, 30 Gil Vaughan, Keller Williams .............. 30 Ramilya Siegel, Allen Tate ................. 30 Smith Marketing, Allen Tate .............. 14
We’ve got a new look!
Check out our new logo.
The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996
JULY 19 - 25, 2018
31
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