Nov. 22 - 28, 2013
We’re thankful for... bringing the local news home to northwest Guilford County since 1996 • nwobserver.com •
Readers give thanks for this year’s blessings by the readers of the Northwest Observer
Thanksgiving. It’s the time of year when people often reflect more on all the positives in their lives. We recently reached out to readers and asked them to share some of those positives with us and the following are some of the responses we received. Look for more in our Nov. 29 issue – and if you’d like to share a positive with us, please email editor@nwobserver.com.
Moving to Summerfield in June was an adjustment for our family. We traded family close by, urban conveniences and the ocean for new neighbors, long and winding roads, and a rural setting. But, this Thanksgiving holiday we find ourselves with much to be thankful for. The blessing that tops the list has to be our warm and welcoming neighbors. Going above and beyond a plate of brownies, we have been offered true friendship. Thank you, Lennox Woods’ neighbors. We are reminded that when one door closes, another door opens and new blessings will flow in.
I am especially thankful for God’s blessings this year. He gave my dad four extra months to be with us before cancer took him in September, and then He showered us with His love and comfort when it was time to say goodbye. Just a few days ago, God was with my daughter-in-law and brand new grandson who decided to arrive three weeks early. Although Brandon had to spend a week in the NICU at Women’s Hospital because of some minor breathing issues, he is healthy and strong overall and a joyful addition to our family.
Sarah Thomas, Summerfield
Sandy Stone, Oak Ridge
Turning the page
I am thankful for my wife being cancer-free for almost five years and nearing her remission date. I am thankful for my precious little girl who is truly a miracle. My caring and giving mother. My wonderful grandparents and sister. My Christian upbringing and renewed strength through God. My home, career and supportive community/friends and church. We sometimes forget how much we take for granted. Phillip Stone, Stokesdale
...continued on p. 18
IN THIS ISSUE News in brief................................3 Your Questions ............................4
After 13 years, councilwoman looks to next chapter in life
Marching with Macy’s................6
by ANNETTE JOYCE
Bits & Pieces ..............................15
STOKESDALE – Mickie Halbrook served two years on the Stokesdale Planning and Zoning Board before being elected to the Town Council 13 years ago. As she prepares to turn over her council seat on Dec. 17, Halbrook looks back on the last 15 years of close involvement in town government. “I’ve had a part in so many good
things,” Halbrook says. “We were able to set up a water system. We built the town hall and dedicated it as an emergency shelter. We built a town park. And we’ve been able to do it all without imposing any property taxes.” Avoiding a property tax has been key for Halbrook. “I’ve been very much against imposing any taxes,” she says. “My hope is that our future council members
will be as frugal as past members have been.”
Summerfield Town Council ......10 Business Notes ..........................15 Halbrook
Raised in Oak Ridge, Halbrook moved to Stokesdale when she and her late husband Keith married. As the couple was raising their four children, she became involved in both the school system and the town.
...continued on p. 18
High School Football ................19 Crime/Incident Report .............20 Community Calendar..............22 Letters/Opinions ......................24 Grins & Gripes ...........................25 Classifieds .................................27 Index of Advertisers .................31