Northwest Observer | December 20 - January 9, 2013 by pscommunications

Dec. 20, 2013 - Jan. 9, 2014

Happy Holidays from all of us at the Northwest Observer! We’ll be back Jan. 10

Church embodies the message of forgiveness, hope Exactly one year after arsonist destroys sanctuary, Gideon Grove United Methodist Church will hold groundbreaking for a new building by PATTI STOKES STOKESDALE – “Lord, we pray not for tranquility. Nor that our tribulations may cease. We pray for thy spirit and thy love. That thou grant us strength and grace to overcome adversity. Through Jesus Christ. Amen.” These words from “For Overcoming Adversity” were salvaged from a page in one of Gideon Grove United Methodist Church’s hymnal. It was found, burnt but intact, among the ashes and rubble that remained the morning after Harley Kendall Fulp, 18, broke a window, poured gasoline on

the sanctuary floor and lit a match to ignite it. Though more than a dozen fire stations responded on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012, they could not save the 118-year-old building from burning to the ground. “It was a difficult thing to watch it burn,” said Rev. Wanda Lancaster, Gideon’s pastor. “I beat the fire department there and stood and watched it most of the night. I saw the hurt and pain of watching something that we all loved for so long just crumble to the ground. There were so many memories there, from baptisms

Photos courtesy of Gideon Grove UMC Church

Gideon Grove United Methodist Church, left, was intentionally set on fire Dec. 22, 2012.

to weddings to funerals.” Even as their hearts broke at the sight of the charred ruins, the message of hope, strength and love from No. 531 of the United Methodist hymnal

...continued on p. 26

In a Christmas state of mind by LAURA PULLINS

As the holiday season progresses, I’m reminded of the efforts my parents went to in order to get our family in the spirit of Christmas. In temperatures of 20 degrees below zero, we donned our winter fleeces, boots and mittens and piled into our Ford F-150, eager to explore the snowy Minnesota neighborhoods decked in twinkling lights, garland and other festive ornaments.

No stretch limo Barbie car or oversized teddy bear could light up my eyes the way those decorated homes did, or the way the memories still do today. To light up your Christmas spirit, we asked members of the community to invite you to enjoy the winter wonderlands displayed at their homes and businesses. Danielle Jenks, manager of the Gardens at Gray Gables, 4105 Oak Ridge Road in Summerfield, estimates 100,000 lights illuminate the 6.5 acre

property, which includes a historic Victorian-style house and a beautifully landscaped garden and event area. A display of this scale requires the help of three to four employees. To start, they hang lighted globes from branches of the many trees located throughout the property, then string lights through the bushes before adding 25 animated light displays and 30 inflatable decorations.

...continued on p. 14

IN THIS ISSUE News in brief.................................... 3 Your Questions ................................ 4 Spirit of giving alive and well ........ 6 Summerfield Town Council ............ 8 Dolls of Christmases past..............12 Student Profiles ..............................15 Bits & Pieces ...................................18 NWO On The Go! .......................... 20 Crime/Incident Report ..................21 Community Calendar.................. 22 Letters/Opinions .......................... 23 Grins & Gripes ............................... 25 Classifieds ......................................27 Index of Advertisers ......................31

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NEWS in brief

Taking a break NW GUILFORD COUNTY – The Northwest Observer will not be published on Dec. 27 or Jan. 3 and our office will be closed Dec. 24 – 30. Our staff looks forward to spending time with friends and family over the holidays, and to

returning to our weekly in-print schedule on Jan. 10. In the meantime, stay tuned to local events by visiting us at facebook.com/ northwestobserver, and at our website, www.nwobserver.com.

Open house held for feedback on Phase II of park OAK RIDGE – About 30 citizens attended an open house on Dec. 5 that was held to provide information and gain feedback on proposals for Phase II of the Oak Ridge Town Park. “Overall, we were encouraged by the comments received at the open house,” said Bill Edwards, chairman of the town’s Parks and Recreation Commission. “Many folks were curious about what was being proposed. Generally, once the reasoning was explained for specific layouts, the responses Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO were positive and enthusiastic. Rev. Roy Carter (right) looks at alternative locaThere were many interactive tions for proposed features to be included in Phase discussions, often suggesting II of the Oak Ridge Town Park, while Parks and ideas that on first blush seemed Recreation Commission Chairman Bill Edwards, reasonable, but upon further far left, and town councilmen Spencer Sullivan and review were less so.” Roger Howerton explain the varied options. This was not the first time the commission sought input on what included among the proposed features citizens would like to see in Phase II of the in Phase II, although funding will deterpark. As a result of feedback it received mine whether the tennis courts will be through a community survey in 2012 and included in the initial round of construcseveral public meetings, Edwards said tion or added at a later time. the proposed location of the additional restroom is based on servicing the popular The commission plans to apply for area consisting of the current playground, a PARTF (Parks and Recreation Trust Shelter #1, a new dog park, new bike trail, Fund) grant by the Jan. 31 application new nature trail, proposed amphitheatre deadline. PARTF grants provide 50 perand proposed Shelter #3 (future phase). cent matching funds of up to $500,000 for municipal park projects. Additional parking, tennis courts, a performance stage/amphitheater and a second, smaller playground are also ...News Briefs continued on p. 7

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DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

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online: nwobserver.com e-mail: questions@nwobserver.com What would it take to create a July 4th event in the Oak Ridge Town Park and combine it with a fundraiser to help the Oak Ridge Military Academy? I drive by ORMA often and see their drill team practicing. I would love to see them perform. What if we all got together: ORMA, Town of Oak Ridge, Historic Preservation Committee, Northwest Observer and citizens of our fine town, and asked ORMA to have cadets perform at a July 4th celebration at the park? We could raise funds for the academy by selling hot dogs and apple pie, and follow that with a fireworks display. The community can enjoy the food, fellowship and ORMA performance as we celebrate our nation’s independence. Children are brought up in a spirit of patriotism. All proceeds would go to the ORMA to help in their finances and to increase their exposure to the public. We would also be celebrating their history in our wonderful town. Seems like a win-win situation to this proud citizen of Oak Ridge. To begin a discussion about this, we approached Dr. Danny Nobles, headmaster of the military academy. “I am not sure this is possible, but the idea is intriguing and we will explore it,” says Noble. “While a July 4th parade by the corps of cadets would be difficult due to summer break,

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

there may be a possibility for our color guard to participate in our national birthday celebration. Many of our cadets live outside of the area, across the United States and throughout the world. However, we conduct various summer activities such as leadership camps and academic camps, and we will gladly consider the possibility of forming a color guard from campers

and cadets who live locally.” If the academy could work out the logistics of putting a color guard together in the summer, the next thing needed would be a group of volunteers to get

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approval and support from the various organizations that would be involved and to orchestrate the entire event. In order to get the town involved and obtain use of the Oak Ridge Town Park, the group would need to present its proposal to the Parks and Recreation Commission. The commission would require a “detailed proposal that would include such things as what parts of the park would be used, time frames and planned activities,” explains Terry Lannon, Oak Ridge’s director of parks and recreation. One thing to keep in mind is the town’s involvement with the annual Ridgefest event, which is sponsored by the Merchants Association of Oak Ridge (MAOR) and takes place in June at the town park. That event features a fireworks display paid for by MAOR and the town, which costs about $5,000. A July 4th event could be worth pursuing by volunteers who have the desire and time to commit. To begin, you’d want to find someone to spearhead the project and start making the appropriate contacts. In the meantime, if you’d like to see the drill team in action, the academy offers numerous opportunities. “We conduct parades and ceremonies throughout the year to commemorate observances such as Memorial Day, Veteran’s Day, 9/11, and Mother’s Day,” says Nobles. “The community is always welcome to attend these events. We must continue to remember the price paid for our freedom.”

Is there any good reason for hanging all the new traffic lights four years ahead of the 2016 completion of new US 220? Even though they are for the most part covered, the large number of lights can cause confusion to say the least. “In most cases along US 220, the new signals that you see had to be installed because the existing poles that held the signal heads over the road were in conflict with the widening that needs to take place at the intersection,” explains DOT’s Kris Lorenz. “Our contractor had to move the poles to a new location to allow room to do the widening in these areas. As the construction progresses along US 220, this will also allow for the signal heads to be shifted as the traffic is shifted into different phases. You should start to see some of this happening next year,” Lorenz continues. “Our signal contractor is from Kentucky and it is hard to schedule them to come and install the signals on short notice, plus it takes time to get Duke Power to install power to a new signal. The signal needs to be in place and inspected before Duke Power can install the meter and connect power.” Lorenz says there should only be two intersections where the new signals are not operational, at US 158 and US 220 where the contractor is working on the detour, and at the new location of Owls Roost Road and US 220 where the new intersection will be constructed.

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DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

‘Santa’s Elves’ keep spirit of giving alive Despite battle with cancer, Colfax resident remains committed to Christmas project by SHARON NEELY Forget the North Pole. Apparently, Santa lives right here in northwest Guilford County, along with about 40 very busy and generous elves. Every Christmas for the past 13 years, Darci, who requested that we only use her first name, has been delivering not only toys, but groceries, clothes and gift baskets to families in and around Greensboro at Christmastime.

The idea came to Darci while serving as a room mother in her daughter’s class at Colfax Elementary.

Groceries and presents wait to be given to needy families at Christmas after being sorted by Darci's "elves" in her garage on Dec. 15.

“A little girl came up to me and whispered, ‘My mom told me that Santa wouldn’t be coming to our house this year,’” she recalls. “I couldn’t imagine a child waking up on Christmas and not having any presents. I knew at that point that I had to do something.”

Photo courtesy of Kathie Torres

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After Darci reviews the list of families she receives from Woodall every fall, she immediately contacts her “elves.” The elves then decide which family each of them wants to adopt. Most items are donated by the elves, and from companies such as Toys and Company, which donated toys for the children this year. Darci and her family personally adopt at least one family each year. Once all the toys, gift cards, clothes and food – including a ham for each family – have arrived at Darci’s home around the middle of December, the elves get busy sorting the enormous piles of goodies that have been stockpiled in her living room and throughout

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

her home. “You wouldn’t believe her garage after we’ve sorted everything,” says Kathie Torres, a friend of Darci’s and one of the original “elves.” Along with many others, Torres is inspired by the energy and passion Darci has for the families she serves. “She deserves so much credit for all the time she puts into this,” shares Torres. “She doesn’t want any focus on herself. She’s just passionate about these families and there isn’t anyone she would turn away.” Although “Santa’s Elves” has become a routine Christmas tradition for those involved, this past year has been anything but routine for Darci. In December 2012, she was diagnosed with small-cell lung cancer, an aggressive type of cancer that spreads quickly. “I had a cough that wouldn’t go away,” Darci says. “The biopsy revealed it had spread to the lymph nodes and pelvic area.” More recently, she received news the cancer had spread to her liver. Darci, however, has not let the news of cancer, nor the weekly chemo treatments, slow her down a bit.

NEWS in brief

“My chemo treatments haven’t caused me a lot of trouble,” she says. “I’ve been very blessed through this whole thing. I’d be absolutely nowhere, though, without my faith.”

...continued from p. 3

Council to fill vacant seat

Along with her strong faith in God, this vibrant woman claims that maintaining a normal routine has been helpful. “It’s very important for me to stay upbeat and keep Photo courtesy of Kathie Torres Gift baskets assembled by Darci and her "elves" will things normal,” says Darci, soon be delivered to needy Guilford County families who has done most of her for Christmas. “Santa’s Elves” corresponding in the chemo lounge, continues with her Santa’s Elves project where she also finds time to keep her blog updated. “I see so much goodness this year, despite her cancer. in the chemo lounge and have met so “I just want to shine a light in a many amazing people.” place that is dark too often,” she says. “I want all these kids to be a part of the “Amazing” is a word most people miracle that happened on Christmas.” would use to describe Darci as she

STOKESDALE – Where there were once five, there are now only four and the Stokesdale Town Council is seeking someone to fill its vacant seat. Randy Braswell was elected to a four-year term on the council in 2011; however, Braswell ran for mayor and was elected in November to serve four years as mayor. He was sworn in as the town’s new mayor on Dec. 17, which means council now has the option of appointing someone to serve the remaining two

years of his regular council member term. Five citizens have so far expressed interest in serving the remainder of Braswell’s four-year council term. The town council invites any other citizen who is interested to contact Town Hall at 643-4011 or stoksdl@bellsouth.net before noon on Jan. 10. Mayor Braswell and council members Vicki White-Lawrence, Bill Jones and Frank Bruno hope to appoint someone to fill the open council seat at the Jan. 21, 2014 council meeting.

Town renews Republic’s franchise agreement for five years SUMMERFIELD – Other than Republic Services not accepting Styrofoam for recycling, the Town of Summerfield is very happy with the company’s solid waste and recycling collection service. So much so that it has approved another five-year exclusive franchise agreement with the company, effective Jan. 1, 2014. Republic collects solid waste once per week and recycling every other week. Citizens have the option of purchasing their own containers, or can rent them from Republic for a small fee each quarter. Customers can call

Republic to arrange for bulky waste (couches, chairs, etc.), white goods and yard waste to be picked up. Republic’s rates will actually go down in 2014 by $1.50 per quarter, for a total of $48.33 per quarter, which includes two 96-gallon rollout carts (one for recycling and one for solid waste), or $46.02 per quarter for those who provide their own carts. Have a question, problem, or want to schedule pickup of your bulky waste, white goods or yard waste? Call Republic Services at 299-0815.

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DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

SUMMERFIELD town council as reported by PATTI STOKES Linda Southard led an opening prayer. Following town council and staff introductions, the meeting agenda was adopted. A special called meeting was scheduled for Dec. 17 to review a rezoning request for 25 acres on Oak Ridge Road, north of the Birkhaven subdivision, from AG to RS-40.

PUBLIC COMMENTS As he had done last month, Don Wendelken again congratulated newcomers on the town council and encouraged them to make informed, not emotional decisions on issues pertaining to citizens and the town. “I would love to see things go forward in a positive way so other communities can look at us and say, “They got it going,” Wendelken said, then announced he would be launching an online newspaper in January in an effort to keep Summer-

field citizens better informed. Though the newspaper would have signed letters to the editor, the letters and the entire newspaper would be non-controversial, Wendelken repeatedly emphasized. Beth Kaplan thanked Mayor Mark Brown and John Wray for their years of service to the town and said they should be very proud of their accomplishments. “Your legacy will live on in the wonderful town park that the town will continue to enjoy for many generations,” Kaplan said. “Hopefully the council will continue to work on the ordinances that will only strengthen the comprehensive plan you have worked so hard on, and will also continue to work on the trails. I also hope the new council and mayor will learn, like John Wray and Mark Brown, that special interest groups aren’t a bad thing. The good thing about living in a small town is that we all get to be a

TOWN STAFF

Tim Sessoms mayor

Dena Barnes

Scott Whitaker

mayor pro tem

town manager

Valarie Halvorsen town clerk

COUNCIL MEMBERS

Mike Adams

Alicia Flowers Elizabeth McClellan Dianne Laughlin

special interest group. We all hold things near and dear to our hearts and we have a very active town who likes to be very involved. Your job will be deciding what will be best for the town … not an easy job. I’m sad to say goodbye to Mark Brown and John Wray, but excited to say hello to Mike Adams and Tim Sessoms.” John O’Day echoed Kaplan’s sentiments. “You certainly don’t serve a town as long as you did without loving it,” he said to Brown and Wray. O’Day then referenced the community tree lighting that was held at the athletic park on Dec. 7 and said he had been struck once again by how people could come together for a community cause. Before closing, he encouraged everyone to “perform a little

act of kindness for someone as you go through your holiday season.” Former town manager Michael Brandt, who was among the many people attending the meeting to honor Brown and Wray, was acknowledged.

COMMITTEE/ EVENT REPORTS Finance. Finance Officer Katrina Whitt announced the finance committee will meet again on Jan. 20 at 7 p.m. Historical. Chairwoman Linda Southard announced the historical committee will meet later this month, but the meeting

...continued on p. 10

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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2205 Sandy Ridge - $95,000 - 3.5 ac in PRIME Loc! Hrdwds, Driveway, Well (needs pump), Barn/Garage (electric, 5yr roof, Kennels), 2 old septic percs, 3/4 ac fncd dog lot, possible pond site & partial fencing! WEB ID #: 690181 Deryle Peaslee-Wood 336-601-4765

5538 Bunch Rd - $69,900 - Great investment opportunity! 1 ac in Smrfld/Oak Rdge area. 3 BR, 1 BA w/hrdwd. In decent condition-would make good rental, Great Land to build. WEB ID #: 682886 Deryle Peaslee-Wood 336-601-4765

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TOWN COUNCIL ...continued from p. 8

Give the gift of a brighter smile . . . or treat yourself with our

Holiday Whitening Special

date has not been confirmed. Public safety. Don Wendelken announced the public safety committee will meet the third week in January, at which time members will take a tour of the new District 1 sheriff’s office. Trails and Open Space. Paul Lambrecht said the trails and open space committee continues to work on developing alternatives for the proposed trail system. Christmas tree lighting. Town Manager Scott Whitaker reported on the Christmas tree lighting held on Dec. 7 and said the turnout was good considering the cold weather and forecast. The leftover food was delivered to Urban Ministries in Greensboro and to Mary’s House, a shelter for homeless women.

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Reappointments. Whitaker recommended re-appointment of James Brady, Bill North, Lewis Nash, Ron Willis and Mike Stewart to the Board of Adjustment. Councilwoman Alicia Flowers asked about the term length that BOA members serve (three years), then commented that she had attended a BOA hearing in October. “To be honest, I was disappointed in what I saw, and since that time I’ve given it a lot of thought,” Flowers said. “The BOA is a very important board in this town. I think we as town council members have dropped the ball. We budget $1,000 a year for education. In the past five years, the BOA has only spent $700 – which tells me they’re not getting the education that they need to do their jobs.” Flowers then suggested mandatory education for BOA members. Whitaker said he recently received training through the League of Municipalities, which included a session focused on the legislative changes that went into effect in October. He felt that training session would be very beneficial for the BOA members, and said when he asked if they would be willing to take that training they

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

were not only willing, but wholeheartedly wanted it, so it is on their slate. Town Attorney Bill Hill explained that, except for the past year, he had personally provided training to BOA members on an annual basis; however, the charge for his time didn’t show up as a separate amount in the town’s educational training budget because it was included in his regular monthly fee to the town. Flowers again emphasized she felt it was important to regularly provide training to BOA members and to bring outside professionals in to participate. “I think it’s very important, especially because we have had very important decisions made in the past year that have affected the town,” she said. Councilwoman Elizabeth McClellan said she had also attended a BOA meeting and shared Flowers’ concerns. Flowers suggested a BOA meeting be scheduled each month as opposed to infrequently meeting only when there was a case to be heard; if no cases were scheduled, she said the meeting time could instead be spent on training.  5  0 In five separate votes, council unanimously approved the re-appointments of Brady, Nash, North, Willis and Stewart to the Board of Adjustment. Contract renewal. Continuing with last month’s discussion, Whitaker said the fiveyear franchise agreement with Republic Services was agreed upon in March 2009 and will end Dec. 31. Overall, citizens seem very satisfied with the company’s waste and recycling collection service, Whitaker noted, so council’s consensus at last month’s meeting was to continue the contract for one year and elicit feedback from citizens during that time. Eric McAden, a division manager with Republic Services, was on hand to answer questions. Whitaker recommended extending the contract for two years instead of one, as had been discussed last month, and said the company has proposed reducing rates by $1.50/quarter in 2014. Flowers asked why the town wouldn’t renew for another five years, since citizens seemed satisfied with the com-

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

pany’s service and there had been very few complaints. Whitaker explained the council had discussed getting feedback from citizens before entering into another 5-year agreement. McAden said Republic would be willing to enter into another five-year agreement and amend it along the way if/when needed. Flowers said she was very satisfied with Republic, but wanted to know if there were any plans to recycle styrofoam. McAden said there was no facility to dispose of it in this area, but hopefully there would be in the future.

 5  0 After further discussion,

council voted unanimously to renew the residential waste and recycling services franchise agreement with Republic for a period of five years. Councilwoman Dena Barnes, who represents the town on the Metropolitan Planning Organization, reported the December MPO meeting had been rescheduled for Jan. 22.

TOWN MANAGER’S REPORT Whitaker announced the town had recently entered into a contract to purchase what is known as the Gordon property, which includes the former Gordon Hardware building diagonally across from Town Hall. The town has 60 days to do a structural and environmental assessment. The planning and zoning board continues its discussion of the draft abandoned vehicle ordinance. There has been some movement on the issue of the noise wall at the entrance to Elmhurst Estates, Whitaker said. Steve Kingsbury, who chairs a committee the Elmhurst Estates neighborhood created to deal with the issue of the noise wall, said the homeowners were scheduled to meet on Dec. 12, at which time they planned to vote on placement of the wall. Recognition. Dena Barnes presented a plaque and resolution of appreciation to Mayor Mark Brown, who has served as the town’s mayor for the past eight years. She noted Brown’s military service and his career with the Guilford County sheriff’s department, from which he

retired in 2004 after 30 years. Barnes said Brown and Councilman John Wray, who is also a past mayor, had been instrumental in getting the town generator and planning for the emergency shelters which are located at two Summerfield churches. She credited Brown for helping get the stoplight at the intersection of Summerfield Road and N.C. 150, and for his help with Founder’s Day events, the community tree lightings, ground breakings and ribbon cuttings. The town hall, historic district, community and athletic parks, and getting the rock gym on the National Register are other things both Brown and Wray worked to make happen, Barnes said. “They did whatever was needed, from unstopping the toilets to setting up the tables and chairs for the senior resources meetings. Armed with a warm handshake and a friendly smile, Mark and John are always ready to give words of appreciation to others while not bringing a lot of attention to themselves as they represent our town.” Mayor Brown then presented a plaque and certificate of appreciation to Wray, who said he had enjoyed his service on the council and the town wouldn’t be where it was without its volunteers. “I’m not going to get lost – I’ll still be around and you’ll be seeing me here in the meetings,” Wray said.

GRANITE SALE

Swearing in. After recessing at 7:15 p.m. for refreshments, Council reconvened and Superior Court Judge Stuart Albright swore Mike Adams, Dianne Laughlin and Tim Sessoms into office, after which Mark Brown turned the mayor’s gavel over to Sessoms.

NEW BUSINESS Mayor Pro Tem. Following an election every two years, council members elect a mayor pro tem from among the council. McClellan said she had been the top vote getter two years ago, but because she was pregnant with her fourth child, she did not feel she could devote the time needed to be second in line so she nominated Barnes to continue serving as mayor pro tem.

 4  1 Council voted to appoint

Dena Barnes as mayor pro tem (Flowers cast the opposing vote). Bank signatory resolutions. Motion to approve the bank signatory resolution authorizing Mayor Tim Sessoms, Mayor Pro Tem Dena Barnes, the town manager and council member Alicia Flowers to sign checks. ABC Board appointment. Whitaker said council needed to appoint one member to represent the town on the Greensboro ABC Board (Mayor Mark Brown has been representing the town).

 5  0 Council voted to appoint

Jane Wilson, who also serves on the fi-

Huge inventory of

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nance committee, to represent the town on the ABC Board.

 5  0 Council voted to approve the 2014 meeting schedule as presented.

Budget amendment. Whitaker explained that the town very much needed to continue the arrangement with the interim planner until a permanent planner was hired.

 5  0 Council voted to approve

a budget amendment of $20,000 “to maintain sufficient planning services.”

REPORTS, UPDATES, COMMENTS Mike Adams thanked Whitaker and Dwayne Crawford for their work on the town’s Christmas tree lighting event and Whitaker said other staff members had also helped with the event. After congratulating the council on its decision to purchase the Gordon property, Adams asked for a status on the reworking of the development ordinance. Whitaker said N-Focus has the draft and is working specifically on statutory changes. Once the draft was completed, it would be passed on to the town attorney for review.

lit next year. Whitaker said there were already plans to prune the trees next to the magnolia tree, and pointed out that lighting the large tree would require a lot of lights; the smaller tree that the town has been lighting had 3,000 lights on it this year. After discussion, council agreed on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 5:30 p.m. as the date for next year’s community tree lighting, and that the magnolia tree would be lit with “lots and lots” of lights. Bonds. Flowers asked if council members were covered by the employee dishonesty insurance coverage and Whitt said she would find out. Flowers suggested increasing the bonds for the finance officer and staff from $50,000 to $100,000. “We have $8 million in the bank, so if we have to pay a little extra for insurance, I don’t think that’s excessive,” Flowers said. Holiday schedule. Whitaker, who is the town’s only salaried employee, asked if his paid holiday schedule could be adjusted to be in line with the way the state does it. Because Christmas falls on a Wednesday this year, that would give him a third paid holiday at Christmas.

OTHER BUSINESS

 5  0 Council voted to revise the

Flowers asked if a date for the community Christmas Tree Lighting could be established, and said she would like to have the large magnolia tree which is at the entrance to the athletic park

With no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:14 p.m.

personnel policy to reflect three days of vacation at Christmas for salaried town employees.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

Cherished dolls of Christmases past

Whether porcelain, plastic or cloth, beloved companions are long gone, but never forgotten by HELEN LEDFORD Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the “Little House” series, had only a handkerchief with a knot tied in it for a doll. In the big woods of Minnesota at Christmas, her mother cut one out of cloth, stuffed it and added embroidered features and black buttons for eyes. Laura was ecstatic over her new little companion, which she named Charlotte. Sometime later, a visiting toddler in the Ingalls home “pitched a fit,” insisting on taking the doll home with her. Later, sorrowful Laura was to find her precious Charlotte in a mud puddle, frozen. Her mother washed and re-stuffed the doll, making her like new, to young Laura’s joyous delight. Carol Rankin, local artist, recalls one

of her own beloved Christmas dolls – a replica of world-class Norwegian figure skater Sonja Henie, complete with tiny ice skates. Carol, an only child for many years until her brother was born, says “Whenever my family moved, my dolls moved too – to me, they were like real people and friends.” Diana Myers of Greensboro, whose parents Jeff and Sandy reside on Linville Road in Oak Ridge, tells how as a child, a porcelain doll was the inevitable gift from her grandmother at every Yuletide. Each doll was exquisitely dressed and stunningly beautiful, and Diana knew they were not to play with. One day she sneaked one out and in doing so, a pristine limb became broken. Secretly, with the help of Super Glue, ingenuity, and a

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DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

tiny sock pulled up over the “injury,” the doll was restored to her former dignified self before being quietly returned to a display case in the Myers home (where she presumably resides today). As a child, Dorothy Spruill of Stokesdale was repeatedly told by her brothers, “There ain’t no Santa Claus!” One day her father took her to the old Sears store in downtown Greensboro to peruse the Christmas toy section. When they got back to the family vehicle, her dad tossed a large box in the back seat and upon impact, a tiny cry came from inside. And so Spruill received the coveted doll of her dreams and smugly proved her brothers wrong –“Santa” was definitely alive and well as far as this little girl was concerned! A childhood friend of mine has such an extensive array of dolls collected over many years that they have their own little house to live in. She relates how, leaving her Christmas doll on the stairs, her dad accidently stepped on a fragile arm and smashed it. Admonished by her father for being so careless, she herself repaired the offended appendage. Later as an adult, my friend became a “doll doctor,” restoring many a small “patient” for folks who knew of her expertise. Her most revered doll, received on a long past 25th of December, was not a fancy one, but a sweet baby cherub that softly called out “Mama” when her back was rubbed.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Many of my own daughter’s dolls are scattered in upstairs attic rooms – some headless, and others whose eyes stare dismally through an accumulation of dust. A chosen few have an honored place in a corner of my living room, including Mrs. Beasley (from the ’70s), who peers through black rimmed “specs” while presiding over a gaggle of other time-worn, inanimate subjects. Nearby is a bedraggled but beloved Raggedy Ann (sparse of hair), who once reigned regally under the branches of a tinsel-bedecked tree. One Christmas morning I received a beautiful long-legged moppet with black hair, red lips, and a lovely fake-fur coat with matching beret. Her dainty

...continued on p. 23

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CHRISTMAS ...continued from p. 1

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The Christmas display at the Gardens at Gray Gables will be lit until Dec. 28. Jenks reminds everyone that they still have one more weekend to visit the 2nd annual holiday walking trail, which will be open this Friday, Dec. 20, and Saturday, Dec. 21, from 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is free and hot chocolate, cookies and candy canes are provided to all visitors. Next, drive west on Oak Ridge Road for four miles, and you’re just a few turns away from the Pozzo residence at 6904 Aplington Road, where you’ll find it adorned with multiple lights and lawn decorations. “If we put all the decorations up in one day, it’d take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours,” says Tara Pozzo, who moved with her family to Oak Ridge this past year. Next stop is less than two miles away, so just follow the lights to Van and Gina Tanner’s Oak Ridge home in Ashton Park – or as the neighborhood kids like to call it, “the Christmas house.” Their display at 6605 Ashton Park Drive takes three to four days to set up, and music is played in sync with thousands of lights. Many varied lighting arrangements detail the frames and roof of their home. You’ll also find several animated characters, plus a life-size Santa and a Christmas tree that weighs up to 40 pounds! The Coopers’ house in Stokesdale is located at 8102 Angles Glen Drive, just off NC 68. Pooja and Darren Cooper start decorating their home during the long weekend of Thanksgiving, when they hang decorations from dusk until dawn each day. With the help of their 2-yearold daughter, they decorate their home from top to bottom, inside and out. “If I had to count the lights, I’d estimate we hang several thousand,” Pooja says. “The exterior is embellished with inflatables, lots of yard décor, lighted paths, reindeer and more.” The inside of their home is decorated lavishly as well, with three Christmas

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

trees, and a snow land display that covers the family room table. “Thank you for being so festive,” and “You did a fantastic job with your Christmas lights,” are just some of the many praises they’ve received from neighbors. Starting on Dec. 20 the Coopers’ lights will remain lit from 5:30 until 9:30 p.m. The last display on this tour takes us back to Summerfield, to the Liberty Wesleyan Church. “There are no synchronized light shows, no blow-up lawn figurines, no Santa or reindeer,” says Pastor Danny Janes. “Just simple, elegant, white icicle lights illuminate the entire roofline, porch, and driveway hitching post; plus a white silhouette nativity scene is located near the road.” While passersby enjoy the display, some have asked why more color isn’t added. “I love colored lights,” Janes explains, “but white lights are a symbol of the purity of Christ coming into our world.” Red is the only other color used to decorate the church, displayed vividly with bows, a “Merry Christmas” sign, and poinsettias. Janes uses red because it’s the symbol of Jesus’ blood, shed on the cross for our salvation, he explains. Janes first started decorating the parsonage in 2009 as a tribute to his late father, Ted Janes, a man once well known by Indiana residents for his extravagant decorations. The display at Liberty Wesleyan Church will remain lit nightly from 5:30 to 11 p.m. until New Year’s Day. Calvin Coolidge once said, “Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.” As you finish up your Christmas shopping and deliver those baked goods, remember the true reason for the season. Be grateful for your loved ones and the many blessings you have. And whether it’s touring the community to enjoy the light displays, sharing the gift of thoughtfulness or reading your favorite Christmas story, seek out ways to make this holiday a memorable one for all the right reasons.

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

NORTHERN

Basketball

MATT FURLOUGH, senior Hometown: Greensboro Toughest class: Chemistry Extracurricular activities: Young Life Favorite food: Prime rib Favorite artist: Wiz Khalifa Favorite movie: Coach Carter Siblings: One sister Best vacation ever: Cruise to Cozumel, Mexico and the Cayman Islands

Years lived in the Northern area: My whole life Dream job: College basketball coach Fun fact: I applied to go to school at NC State, UNC Charlotte and ECU. Nickname: “Furlough” Position on the team: Shooting guard Pre-game ritual: Prayer Coach Chambers’ comments: “Matt has become a starter because of his commitment to become an excellent defensive player. He always has to guard the opposing team’s best wing player and takes pride in being able to hold that player under his average.”

Thanks

to our community for allowing us to serve you!

squad. I’ve loved coaching her and seeing her develop into the player and young lady that she is.”

NORTHERN

Basketball

ALIYAH GRINAGE,

NORTHWEST

senior

Hometown: Greensboro Toughest class: Advanced Functions and Modeling (math) Extracurricular activities: I like bowling Favorite food: Japanese Favorite band: The Weeknd Favorite movie: The Polar Express Siblings: Two older brothers Best vacation: Miami, Fla. Years lived in Northern area: 8 Dream Job: Professional athlete. Fun fact: I love dancing Position on the team: Forward/center/ team captain Pre-game ritual: I pray before every game. Coach Kim Furlough’s comments: “Aliyah has been a four-year starter and three-year All-Conference player. She has won two conference titles, a conference tournament and sectional tournament. Aliyah scored her 1,000th point on Nov. 22 and will finish second on the all-time scoring list at Northern. She knows what it takes to win and is doing a fantastic job of leading our young

Basketball

TIMOTHY KILPATRICK, senior Hometown: Greensboro Toughest class: Honors CET ll (2) Extracurricular activities: Tennis Favorite food: Rolled steak Favorite band: Kendrick Lamar Favorite movie: Coach Carter Siblings: Two brothers, Terry and Titus Best vacation ever: Hawaii Years lived in Northwest area: 12 Dream job: Professional basketball player Interesting/fun fact about yourself: My mother is from American Samoa Nickname: “Tim” Position on the team: Guard Pre-game ritual: Listening to music and saying the Lord’s Prayer Coach Lee Reavis’ comments: “Tim has improved his basketball skills over the last year, but more importantly has improved his leadership skills. He is one of our leaders on and off the floor and asks our guys to do things the right way.”

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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Russell earns Eagle b

BITS and PIECES

Children help others Mrs. Pritchett’s 3rd grade class at Oak Ridge Elementary School helped pack bags of food for a backpack program that feeds children on the weekend as part of their service learning project. Other 3rd grade classes are doing the same and collecting food.

Jacob R. Russell, member of Troop 103 and son of Rick and Christine Russell of Summerfield, has earned his Eagle Award. Jacob’s project was to build Tee pads for the Frisbee golf course at Haw River State Park. In addition to the Tee pads, he also led a team clearing the fairways of the course.

SCA incorporates moral focus topic into Toys for Tots drive Front row, L to R: Kayla Whitaker, Marco Mowlanejad, Audrey Copenhaver; Back row, L to R: Krish Soni, Malone Callowy

Photo courtesy of Jessica Humphrey

Photo courtesy of SCA

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DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

As part of its emphasis on character development, Summerfield Charter Academy on US 220, part of the National Heritage Academy network of schools, incorporates a new moral focus into its curriculum each month. In December, the school’s Moral Focus Committee chose to combine the focus on self-control with a Toys For Tots collection drive. “We felt that a good way to get a wide range of gender/age toys and have the children use some self-control would be to have them pick out toys they

wanted, but instead of keeping the toys, put them in the collection boxes at the school entrance,” said Paula Copenhaver, a Moral Focus Committee member. “I’m so happy that my children are learning the importance of good morals as well as being challenged academically at their new school,” said Copenhaver, a mother of three students at SCA. “As parents we strive to instill good morals in our children from an early age and it is a great feeling to know that these values we cultivate in our homes are being nurtured during school time as well.”

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Community News with your neighbors

e-mail: communitynews@nwobserver.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

imperfekt church Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

Community, current and past church members stand by a historic marker placed by the Oak Ridge Historic Preservation Commission on Dec. 15 at the driveway entrance to St. James AME Church, located behind First Baptist Church of Oak Ridge. The sanctuary of the 118-year-old church doubled as a school for African American children in the early 1900s, before a schoolhouse was built next door around 1915.

at Northwest Middle School

Perfect people not allowed. Perfect attendance unheard of. Perfectly acceptable attire optional. The only perfection here is our foundation, Jesus Christ. So don’t be a perfect stranger. Bring the family and your Bible this Sunday at 10 am. We think you’ll feel perfectly at home.

cbchurch.org | (336) 841-4480

Oak Ridge Military Academy cadets (left to right) Jack Davenport, Eric Shtern and George Krimnus were among the cadets who stood at the N.C. 68 and 150 intersection in Oak Ridge and waved to passersby as they worked to meet the academy’s goal of collecting $7,250 for its annual Toys for Tots drive. The cold, rainy weather on Saturday, Dec. 14 didn’t keep the cadets from collecting donations, but the sunny weather the following day was a little more to their liking.

Pediatric primary care

Dr. Philip McGowen Dr. Stacey Blyth LEBAUER PRIMARY CARE AT OAK RIDGE

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

At LeBauer, we see patients of all ages, and are also pleased to offer primary care for infants and children.

Hunting accident claims life Michael Richard Beck, 57, of Summerfield, died Friday, Dec. 13, as the result of a hunting accident. A memorial service was held at 4 p.m. on Dec. 17 at Guilford College United Methodist Church.

members describe him as a quiet supporter of youth and the less fortunate, and say he was very accepting of others, and never one to judge. He was also an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing and photography.

Mike was a member of Guilford College United Methodist Church and was the owner of Moonshot Media. Family

Surviving Mike are his wife, Pamela Hill Beck, daughter, Avery, and son, Trevor, all of Summerfield.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

LeBauer at Oak Ridge 1427-A Highway 68 N A Member Of

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DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

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

Angie Shumate of Oak Ridge took time out to catch up on local news while visiting the Lion Monument (or Löwendenkmal) in Lucerne, Switzerland, with her husband, John. The monument commemorates the Swiss Guards who were massacred in 1792 during the French Revolution. Above the lion are carved the Latin words “HELVETIORUM FIDEI AC VIRTUTI” (“To the loyalty and bravery of the Swiss”).

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NWO to the first game

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The Stokesdale Nighthawks soccer team took time out between games at The Great Carolina Shootout in Myrtle Beach to catch up on local news. Front row: Joey VanEerden, John Kostyrka, Evan Lewis, Peter Kostyrka, Peter Kostyrka, Peter VanEerden, Nick Gray, Franque Ganzalez Back row: Coach Joe Dixon, Sarah Kostyrka, Hannah Crews, Ian Lewis, Ryan Lichtenstein, Alyssa Davis, Haley Dixon, Jacson Gonzalez, Coach Marlene Kostyrka.

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Terry Christian of Summerfield took a break from the pottery show in downtown Greensboro on Nov. 9 to catch up on her hometown news.

CRIME / INCIDENT report The District 1 Sheriff’s Ofﬁce has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest Guilford County. THEFT

FRAUD

DEC. 8 | Lowes Foods on Church Street in northern Greensboro reported an unknown person took an estimated $140 worth of meat without paying for it.

DEC. 13 | A resident of Spencer Dixon Road in northern Greensboro reported someone fraudulently used her credit card to make purchases.

DEC. 11 | An employee of Southern Exposure Landscape Management, located at the intersection of NC 150 West and Lake Brandt Road in Summerfield, reported someone stole multiple tools valued at $2,190 over a four-week period.

DEC. 14 | A resident of Whitaker Road in Summerfield reported someone used his credit card number at Kmart to buy $500 worth of merchandise.

BREAKING & ENTERING DEC. 8 | A resident of Alcorn Road in northwest Greensboro reported an unknown person broke into his vehicle and stole a Smith and Wesson pistol and an Apple Mini tablet. The loss is estimated at $726. Dec. 12 | The windows of two cars parked at Triad Park, 9652 W. Market St. in Colfax, were reportedly broken and personal property stolen.

DON’T WAIT

DAMAGE TO PROPERTY DEC. 11 | A resident of Benbow-Merrill Road in Oak Ridge reported a known person damaged an interior wall and door, resulting in about $300 worth of damage. Warrants were advised but no charges were filed.

TRESPASSING DEC. 14 | Officers arrested a person for 2nd degree trespassing, public intoxication and resisting arrest at Kings Crossing Shopping Center on NC 68 North in Oak Ridge.

DONATE This holiday season is the perfect time to clean out your closets. Set aside the gently used clothing and household items you no longer use and DONATE to Triad Goodwill.

Located at Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center Mon-Sat 9 am - 8 pm • Sun 1- 6 pm Christmas Eve 9 am -5 pm Closed Christmas Day

District 1 Sheriff’s Ofﬁce

7506 Summerﬁeld Road, Summerﬁeld (336) 641-2300 • Monday - Friday www.guilfordcountysheriff.com

TriadGoodwill.org

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DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

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DEC. 19-20

 Holiday Shootout | Novant Health will host its 3rd

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, CPA, PC

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

annual holiday shootout at Northwest Guilford High School on Thursday, Dec. 19, and Friday, Dec. 20. Basketball games are scheduled at 4:30, 6 and 7:30 p.m. each evening, and admission is $7 per night. MONDAY, DEC. 23

walks • play-dates • feeding • medication • even extra belly rubs!

Spoil-Me-Rotten ANIMAL CARE, INC.

 AA and Al-Anon Meeting | Community Lutheran Church of Summerfield, 2960 U.S. Hwy. 220 N., will host an AA and Al-Anon meeting on Dec. 23 at 8 p.m. More info: call 643-7667.

(336) 643-5242 Nancy Brooks, PSI Member

DEC. 24, 27 & 29

 AA Meeting | Stokesdale Christian Church, 8607 Stokesdale St., will host an AA meeting on Dec. 24 at 6:30 p.m., on Friday, Dec. 27, at 6:30 p.m., and on Sunday, Dec. 29, at 6:30 p.m. More info: call Dean Peterson at 392-6676.

Westergaard Kennels

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 25

DOG BOARDING

 AA Meeting | Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, 2614 Oak Ridge Road, will host an AA meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 25, at 8 p.m. More info: call 643-3452.

5719 Bunch Rd, Oak Ridge 643-5169 • jingletail@mac.com www.westbengoldens.com 25 years serving you

TUESDAY, DEC. 31

 Food/Clothing Pantry | Good Samaritan Ministries

Northwest

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

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

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

will open its food and clothing pantry on Dec. 31, the last Tuesday in the month, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Stokesdale Business Center, 8500 Ellisboro Rd. in downtown Stokesdale. As of January 2014, the food and clothing pantry will be open on the last Saturday of the month at the same location. If you would like to donate any food or clothing items for the pantry (children’s clothing especially needed), please call Terri Johnson at (336) 643-5887 or email terrij1957@yahoo.com. THURSDAY, JAN. 9 (2014)

 Oak Ridge Town Council meeting | The Oak Ridge Town Council meeting, normally held on the first Thursday of each month, has been re-scheduled to Jan. 9 at 7 p.m. at Town Hall on Linville Road.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC 26 Years Experience Individual, Corporate, Partnership & Payroll Tax Electronic Tax Filing  Estate Planning Bookkeeping & Compilations Oak Ridge Business Center 8004 Linville Rd, Suite G, Oak Ridge (336) 643-7577 or 1-800-467-8299 info@samanderscpa.com www.samanderscpa.com

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

Looking back, and Happy Holidays! With 2013 soon coming to a close, I’ve been reflecting on all that has occurred in our northwest community over the last 12 months. From a local news perspective, the year began with sweepstakes businesses across the state being shut down yet again, and the loss of a Northwest Middle School student, Maurice Edmonds II, who was killed in a domestic incident.

the visible changes in the roadsides as the widening project went into full swing. Northern and Northwest high schools graduated 721 seniors. Sixteen citizens filed to run for seven town council seats in the northwest communities. A sheriff’s substation in Summerfield was constructed.

A request to commercially zone a 34+- acre tract of land publisher/editor bordering NC 150 and Deboe Road was approved by the Summerfield As the year progressed, retirements Town Council, though not without much of Northern High School’s head football debate and a split vote. coach, Johnny Roscoe, Northwest High School’s Beverly Alt, Oak Ridge barber Seven new town council members Vern Harden and Mayor Mark Brown were elected and took their seats earlier of Summerfield, Mayor Randy Jones of this month. Stokesdale and longtime council memThrough the celebrations and tribubers Roger Howerton, John Wray and lations, we’ve enjoyed telling your stories Mickie Halbrook were all announced. and covering your local news. I wish you A Chamber of Commerce was orgaa very blessed holiday season, and look nized in Stokesdale and a community forward to serving you in 2014. library opened in the Stokesdale Town ...continued on p. 24 Hall. Motorists on US 220 adjusted to Patti Stokes

CHRISTMAS DOLLS

...continued from p. 12

feet were encased in silky socks and white imitation leather shoes with shiny buckles. I bestowed many childish kisses upon those rosy little plastic cheeks, and took my precious doll to bed (we slept three to a mattress back then!). Sometime during the night my sister, Jewell, became sick (probably from eating too many cherry chocolates!) and threw up on my lovely doll. Needless to say, her beautiful pink outfit was ruined, and the doll herself never lost that stinky smell. It was a tragic loss, yet her memory

remains close to my heart. Those of us older females and younger ones might lament the loss of our Christmas dolls of the past – many who simply disintegrated from old age, or some that got thrown in the trash pile. Or, as in my large family (not with a loving spirit), one sister gleefully threw another’s brand-spanking-new baby doll in the wood heater – grinning all the way, as it burned to a crisp! I’m sure her backside burned later … Merry Christmas!

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DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

LETTERS/OPINIONS

...continued from p. 23

Health insurance is a benefit, not a right Having read the editorials for some time, I have to say that I am way past tired of people saying the only reason people don’t like Obamacare is because of the president’s skin color. I have worked for both small and large businesses; nothing – and I repeat, nothing – has done more harm to this economy and country than the implementation of Obamacare. Health insurance is not a right. It is a benefit of working a job and paying into the system. Most businesses are now looking into dropping their employee coverage altogether. That will leave countless more millions without coverage. More Americans have lost their personal health plans than have signed up for this catastrophe. It makes no sense to force a male to be covered for abortions or contraceptives. This one size fits all attitude of the president’s plan only continues to show his complete lack of knowledge of business or economics. The numbers don’t add up and they also don’t lie. If my current plan meets my needs and those of my

350

family, it should have been left alone. This plan only continues to reward people who think they are owed something. Most low-income Americans are already on Medicaid/Medicare. Others will continue to go to the emergency room to have their medical problems handled. Now, hospitals, doctors and medications are not included, covered or allowed for most major policies. Limiting choices and forcing anyone to buy a product or face a fine is unconstitutional and immoral. One would think that getting people back to work and spurring new job growth would be more important than telling people they now have the added burden of higher premiums, deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses for medications. Talk about a slap in the face of everything that you were told for the last five years. As I have said many times during Obama’s administration, “If at first they don’t believe, lie, lie again.” Teresa Martin, STOKESDALE

Don’t forget, it’s the maximum word count for your editorial

‘Nasty, brutish and short’ – compared to what? The statement in the Grin section of last week’s edition saying European Christians somehow brought a better life to North America than Native Americans of the past or Africa of today cannot go unanswered. The Grin stated that life was “nasty, brutish and short.” In comparison to what, I ask? Where should we place Adolf Hitler,

a European Christian? Time does not permit to list the “nasty, brutish” tyrants who roamed Europe after Christianity was established. Were the European Christian Crusades OK? How were these Native Americans’ lives “short?” In comparison to what – the lifespan of a European Christian during the Dark Ages? How about a

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

European Christian’s lifespan during the plagues (“Black Death”) of the 14th century? In fact, the Native American’s lifespan became “short” when European Christians came to North America during their “nasty, brutish” conquests after Columbus “discovered” America (as though hundreds of millions of people needed to be discovered). Admittedly, the wholesale slaughter of Native Americans was far greater because of the unintentional introduction of European diseases, to which they had no immunity, but the introduction of guns and horses in warfare/conquest did significant damage as well. I am sure the Native Americans of both North and South America would disagree with this “Grin!” They were doing quite well living and managing the environment. We obviously have no way to know what North America

would be like today had it gone un“discovered.” Was the Dust Bowl of the 1930s such a good thing? The mismanagement of the environment by European Christians created this. Did it take Christianity and Europeans before humanity advanced? I guess the discovery of mathematics by Arabs in 3000 BC, Egyptians building the Pyramids from 2700-1700 BC, the invention of gunpowder by the Chinese in the 9th century AD, or building Machu Pichu in the Andes during the 14th century, while European Christians were wallowing in the Dark Ages from the 5th-15th centuries, don’t count. Let’s all be proud of “humanity’s” accomplishments instead of one group! I hope the history teachers teach extra hard today! Rich Lipinski, SUMMERFIELD

we want

your opinion on the

Affordable Care Act Signed into law on March 21, 2010, House Bill H.R. 3962 – the Affordable Care Act, also known as “Obamacare” – states its purpose is to “provide affordable health care for all Americans and reduce the growth in health care spending, and for other purposes.” Before and since the 1,990-page document that outlines the ACA was set into law, it was and continues to be fiercely debated. While the legislation has received praise from those who applaud its lofty goals and/or who have successfully acquired affordable health insurance, it has received equal amounts of criticism

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

from those who have experienced website glitches, confusion, misinformation and notices of pending cancellation of their existing health insurance policies. Others who fall into the relatively healthy category have been notified that their healthcare costs will rise dramatically within the next year. If you have been personally affected, either positively or negatively, by the Affordable Care Act, we’d like to hear from you. Please email Patti Stokes at editor@nwobserver.com, or call (336) 644-7035, ext. 12 and leave your name, phone number and best time when you can be reached.

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

a great barn and teachers. My shy child has blossomed into a more self-assured person thanks to you!

Share your thoughts in

The person who returned my lost wallet from Oak Ridge Commons shopping center to my house. It displays such a holiday spirit!

or less

Mark Brown and John Wray of Summerfield for their many years of service on the town council and at community events. We will miss you!

40 words

online: nwobserver.com e-mail: grinsandgripes @nwobserver.com mail: Grins & Gripes, PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310 Grins & Gripes are published based on available space and editor’s discretion.

GRINS to... Dr. David Lorczak at Oak Ridge Chiropractic! After 20 years of back pain and 10+ years of headaches, I am virtually pain free! My health has been restored and I am beyond grateful! The Oak Ridge Military Academy cadets who stood outside and so enthusiastically collected donations for Toys for Tots on Dec. 15. Hope you met your goal! Christopher Columbus. What a sweet man. Not savage at all. And grins to people who read history books. Landreth Auto Sales & Service for the great repair job on my car. We are so fortunate to have quality service along with fair and honest pricing in this area. To the owners of Gray Gables in Summerfield – you light up our lives at Christmastime with your beautiful decorations and lighted trail! Mary Orr, Lauren Blue and everyone at High Caliber Stables for having such

To the “Griswolds” on Maynard Road in Summerfield’s Hillsdale Lake neighborhood. I love hearing the Christmas music quietly playing in your yard when I walk at night, and all those lights and decorations are so much fun to look at!

GRIPES to... The person who wrote “Europeans brought culture to America.” The Europeans also brought disease, war, and depleted resources that had lasted many years. They began an era of mistreatment of the natives, which debatably has still not ended. The letter-writing supporters of Stan Kowaleski. Where are you now? Admit it: You were blinded by basketball scores and wins. Looks like Darth Vader really was in the room all the way along! The policeman who initiated a traffic stop in the Colfax Elementary dropoff line on the cold, rainy morning of Dec. 10 (four minutes before the late bell rang). We pay you to be a public servant, not a public nuisance! The person in Oak Ridge who chose to hang a deer upside down from a tree, with red lights coming out of the guts. Thank you for making me explain to my kids why you killed Rudolph.

A new road to remarkable care Kernersville Medical Parkway is now open Getting to Novant Health Kernersville Medical Center is now quicker and more convenient, thanks to the opening of Kernersville Medical Parkway. Just a half mile from Interstate 40 via Highway 66, this new road means faster and easier access to care for you in emergency and non-emergency situations. Visit our website to see our ER wait times. Select the time you would like to be seen, and we’ll hold your place.

y. Medical Pkw Kernersville

Visit KernersvilleMC.org for more information.

...continued on p. 26

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

GIDEON GROVE ...continued from p. 1 gradually began to shine through as clearly as the sun had shone through the beautiful stained glass windows in the sanctuary the morning before the fire. The day after the fire was a Sunday, and the Gideon Grove congregation of about 35 members joined the small congregation of Palestine United Methodist Church, where Lancaster is also a pastor. “That congregation just opened their arms to us,” said Lancaster. “When we were still too numb to cry, they cried for us. In the year since, the two churches have met as one, though on occasions such as Easter a large tent was set up on the grounds where the Gideon Grove sanctuary had once stood so that members could again congregate there. A live nativity scene was set up on the grounds earlier this month, and a Christmas party was held in Gideon’s fellowship hall. “When we gathered (at Gideon Grove), the ones there said it was good to be back home,” said Lancaster. As Gideon’s congregation has worked through the shock and pain of their church being destroyed, they have been deeply touched by the outpouring of love, encouragement and support from those near and far.

pervised probation. And as part of his prowho it had come from. bationary sentence, Fulp was ordered to “It has all been amazing, to see how perform 100 hours of community service people have helped us,” said Lancaster. helping to rebuild the church and to write Even as they struggled to recover a letter of apology which he must stand emotionally, Gideon Grove formed a before the congregation and read. committee which was charged with conceptualizing a new church building “I don’t know you could say it (the design. Though sentence) insurance and was satisfying … that’s what we donations will – there had need to do, to forgive. That’s fund a large been a lot of portion of the what Christ did for us … when we hurt and pain new building, a lot to forgive others we offer them that and the church will get over,” Lanopportunity to become healed.” caster shared fall as much as $300,000 short after the Rev. Wanda Lancaster hearing. “But of what it needs. pastor of Gideon’s Grove United that’s what Still, members of Methodist Church we need to the church are do, to forgive. determined to move forward in faith and will celebrate a That’s what Christ did for us … when we forgive others we offer them that opgroundbreaking for a new sanctuary on portunity to become healed.” Sunday, Dec. 22 – exactly one year from the date the church was set on fire. Regarding the judge ordering Fulp to be involved in the church’s rebuilding Ironically, the young man who intenand writing a letter of apology, Lantionally destroyed the church will assist in rebuilding it. Fulp was arrested in April caster said, “I didn’t see that coming, and on Dec. 17 he pled guilty to Burning but I think it will be good for Harley. The judge said, ‘I want you to look in the a Church or Religious Building. faces of the people that you hurt.’” At his sentencing hearing, Lancaster did something that has since drawn both praise and disbelief. She asked the court to forgive Fulp, just as she had worked so hard to do.

“I wasn’t comfortable (speaking to the judge), “When we were trybecause there was no way ing to salvage things from anyone was going to be a the fire, people were walkwinner in the terms that we as a Fulp ing up to us and handing us modern society think of winners,” cash,” Lancaster said. In the said Lancaster. “I knew if I had the opmonths since the church has received portunity to speak on his behalf, it would donations of hymnals, choir robes and impact the judge’s decision, whether it Bibles, offers of pianos and organs, be for good or bad. I prayed long and and about $50,000. One of those dohard about it, and I was trusting in the nations came from a small congregaLord. It’s living what I believe – but it tion in New Hampshire which had also was very difficult.” lived through the experience of their church being burned down. A generous monetary donation came in a rolled up napkin stuffed inside the door of Lancaster’s home, with no indication of

Lancaster’s plea for forgiveness apparently had an impact. Superior Court Judge L. Todd Burke sentenced Fulp to 20-36 months, suspended for 36 months of su-

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

“I don’t speak for my church – I speak for myself,” Lancaster continued. “I know that in my congregation there are some who would like to have seen

GRINS and GRIPES

As Lancaster and her congregation look forward, they take with them abundant lessons from this very painful and personal experience – among them, that a church is much more than a building; out of the darkness can come new life and new opportunities; we must find it in our hearts to forgive others and show mercy, just as forgiveness and mercy have been bestowed on us. And when faith and love are present to help us heal from even the deepest wounds, hope springs eternal.

want to go? A groundbreaking ceremony for a new church building will be held on Sunday, Dec. 22 at 3 p.m. at 2865 Gideon Grove Church Road in Stokesdale.

want to help? Gideon Grove UMC is deeply grateful for the outpouring of donations it has received in the last year. If you would like to make a monetary donation to help Gideon Grove UMC meet the expense of replacing and furnishing the church building that burned, send it to Gideon Grove UMC, P.O. Box 444, Stokesdale, NC 27357.

...continued from p. 25

The person who said European and Christian civilization were the best things for the indigenous people of North America. I think the genocide of those people orchestrated by the Europeans, Christians and the United States argues against that. The trucks that travel on NC 68. Traffic is bad in the morning because of the trucks and the wrecks in the afternoon are caused by the trucks. You do the math. The Northwest Observer for permitting someone to publish one of the most

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

him do some jail time. I can understand that, because there was a lot of hurt when the church was burned. But I still know that as a Christian I need to forgive him and need to move on.”

racist statements I have seen in my long life in the Dec. 13-19 edition! Really, only white Christians are civilized and have a good life? Clearly uneducated person! The Boone’s Landing resident who trespassed, hunted and rode a 4-wheeler on posted land. If you’re that hungry, why don’t you ask first? The person who wrote “The Bible is the origin of all moral law” (Grins and Gripes, Dec. 13-19 issue). This is untrue and ethnocentric. There were civilizations with working laws and social taboos long before the Bible came to be.

 EMPLOYMENT

HOME SERVICES

DRIVERS: DEDICATED. Regional & OTR.

CLEANING

FREE PICK-UP of mowers, batteries, AC’s, appliances, grills, etc. 689-4167.

Start up to $.44/mi + excellent beneﬁts. 401K + bonuses. Excellent home time! CDL-A & 6 mos. exp. (877) 704-3773.

Includes gutters, pressure washing, chande-

PT CLEANING ASSISTANT NEEDED,

and bonded, free estimates.

weekdays 8am-3pm, background check, exp. helpful. Leave msg., (336) 549-2474. DRIVERS – see display ad below for Highways & Skyways.

 HOMECARE AVAILABLE Place online at

CastleWorks WINDOW CLEANING

CAREGIVER AVAILABLE Experienced with numerous home care services. Excellent professional references. Wage & hours negotiable. 707-5245.

www.castleworkswindowcleaning.com.

CHRISTIAN MOM needs work cleaning houses, running errands. Will clean to ﬁt your budget. Pet taxi/pet sitting also avail. References. Call Laura Bennett, 231-1838.

MAID-2-SHINE. Serving NW area for 14 years. Gift certiﬁcates available. Detail oriented/prof/bonded/exc. ref. 338-0223.

CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING, gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. www.windowcleaningnc.com. 399-3995.

liers and other high ladder work. Fully insured 609-0677.

RESIDENTIAL AND

COMMERCIAL summerfield

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

INDEX Employment ................................ 27 Home Care Available .................. 27 Save the Date ............................. 27 Home Services ....................... 27-29 Misc. Services.............................. 29 Misc. for Sale .............................. 30 Misc. Wanted ............................. 30 Pets/Animals & Services ............... 30 Real Estate .................................. 30

THE GARDENS AT GRAY GABLES invites you to come and enjoy our Holiday Trail beautifully lit for all to enjoy. Hot chocolate and cookies will be available. Open every Friday and Saturday from sundown through December 22.

CARPET / UPHOLSTERY / FLOORS 298-7374

MAID-2-SHINE. Serving NW area for 14 years. Gift certiﬁcates available. Detail oriented/prof/bonded/exc. ref. 338-0223. ROSA’S CLEANING SERVICE. 11 yrs. exp. Excellent references. (336) 508-5714. MARIA’S CLEANING SERVICE. Free estimates, guaranteed service. 432-4483.

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

HEALTH BENEFIT PACKAGE • Employee Medical Coverage – 75% paid by Company after 90 days employment • Employee Dental & Vision Coverage – 100% paid by Company after 90 days employment

, in d i a M e m o H

NOW HIRING

TEAM MILEAGE PAY • $0.55 per mile (loaded or empty) based upon PCMiler practical miles beginning and ending at our facility on trips of less than 700 miles • $0.50 per mile (loaded or empty) based upon PCMiler practical miles beginning and ending at our facility on trips over 700 miles • Increase of $0.02/mile after 2 years of service

JASMINE CLEANING SERVICE. 12 years exp. (336) 423-4938 or 298-7669. Professional custom cleaning for home & office

 SAVE THE DATE CHRISTMAS PORTRAITS – LAST CHANCE Pets welcome! Sat., Dec. 21, 11am-until, at Tractor Supply in Oak Ridge. Packages start at $25. Visit facebook.com/ portraitsbyHeatherKellam for more info or call/text 669-8569.

ANA’S HOUSECLEANING. Good references, free est., 25 years exp. 309-0747.

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

To apply, call Derreck Gaye, Terminal Manager (336) 668-3433

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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

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

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.

FLOORING CARPET REPAIRS & RESTRETCHING Licensed & insured. 643-6500. MONTERO’S HARDWOOD FLOORING Installation of hardwood, laminate & tile; hardwood sanding & ﬁnishing. Commercial & residential. Insured, 16 yrs. exp. Free estimates. Monteros-hardwood-ﬂooring. com. Call (336) 215-8842 or 445-2002.

...continued on p. 28

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

HOME SERVICES

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

LAWN CARE / LANDSCAPING

ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE

MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS

ALL ABOUT THE HOUSE. General home repair. Will take the lead on, or assist you with your home projects. 644-8710 / 708-0522.

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

HOUSE & YARD HOME MAINTENANCE “Anything to improve your home and property.” Jeff Ziglar, 456-9992 or 643-9609.

OLD SCHOOL

Home Improvement & Repairs Licensed & Insured

Lisa & Jerry Potkay, Stokesdale

(336) 669-7252

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

Bathroom Remodeler | Additions | Decks

Professional, Honest, Reliable

HOME REPAIR, LLC

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

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

ONE GUY & A MACHINE LAWN CARE and hardscaping. Maintenance, design, paver patios, block walls, hedges trimmed, beds re-edged, pine needles, mulch, pressure washing, chemical applications, aerating. Licensed & insured. Free est. Call 382-4767. www.oneguyandamachine.com. D & D LANDSCAPING & IRRIGATION Complete landscaping services. Retaining walls & patios. Member BBB. NC licensed irrigation contractor. 312-2706. LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS 13-year anniversary special. We will beat your current written price by 15% – guaranteed! Call (336) 601-3796. BUZZ CUTS LAWN & LANDSCAPE INC. Annual service agreements. Buzz, 509-6464. GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maintenance. 655-6490.

The Northwest Observer Keeping you connected for 17 years

Want to reach our readers? Call 644-7035 for advertising info.

shrub and tree pruning. Bobcat work and more. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. Call Joe at 643-9157. MULCH, single-ground, $10 per 3-yard scoop. Tandem load delivered, $100 (about 10 yards). Oak Ridge area, 803-2195.

ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call 382-9875. AREA STUMP DUMP. Yard waste, concrete, etc. Fill dirt available. 602-5820.

MAYS SIDING Storm damage, facia and siding repairs. 215-8776, www.mayssiding.com. VINYL SIDING REPAIRS, vinyl railings & siding, replacement windows, gutter cleaning and repair. Please call 215-8776 for your free estimate.

CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, 643-9332. CarolinaStumpAndTreeServiceNC.com.

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

LOW-COST GARAGE DOORS. Repair & sales. 35 years exp. (336) 215-2800.

Triad Garage Doors

What’s going on around town?

SALES, SERVICE & INSTALLATIONS

Find us on facebook for updates!

(336) 501-6025 www.triadgaragedoors.com

facebook.com/northwestobserver

LiftMaster, Amarr, and all other brands Free estimates • Insured • 10 years experience

TLC LAWN CARE Lawn mowing, fertilization and weed control. General cleanup. Affordable all-season lawn maintenance. (336) 681-0097. AQUA SYSTEMS. Quality irrigation systems. NC Licensed Contractor. We service all systems. Free est. 644-1174. BRAD’S BOBCAT. Landscaping, driveways,

GAS LOGS, WOOD STOVES & INSERTS, ﬁreplaces, sold, serviced and repaired. Call Don Hill, (336) 643-7183. JUNK REMOVAL – appliances, batteries, mowers, cars, electronics, trash removal, etc. Call about free junk removal, 423-3006.

patios, sidewalks, concrete work. 362-3647. STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Locally owned and operated. Lic/ins. 30 yrs. exp. Bucket truck & chipper, total cleanup. 24-hr. emergency svc. OR, NC. 643-1119. WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Complete lawn care & landscaping. NC lic. irrigation contractor.

20 years exp.

Hardscaping,

fertilization & weed control. 399-7764.

GREENERTIMES LAWN MAINTENANCE Free quotes and affordable prices. Discounts on 1-year contracts. (336) 3123844 mobile or (336) 548-9286 ofﬁce.

Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup,

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

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

RESTORATION SPECIALISTS DELIVERING AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE

Cabinet Refacing & Enhancement

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

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

336/404-1471 www.fmbyjh.com

PAINTING & DRYWALL

RIDDLE PAINTING

Specializing in interior painting, we take pride in our quality work and personalized service Free estimates References available

Residential Interiors Pressure Washing

(336) 402-4603 Serving the Triad since 1998

HOME SERVICES

STILL PERFECTION PAINTING

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens & baths, rotted wood, decks, siding, windows, fall rooﬁng specialist. Sr. discounts, 35 years exp. 362-6343.

Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services.

Scott

Still, 462-3683 or stillperfectionpainting.com. PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 32 years experience. Avg. size bedroom walls, $100. Sheetrock repair. Call Brad Rogers for your free estimate. (Local #) 314-3186.

The Northwest Observer is mailed

PLUMBING

to over 10,500 homes every week, and available at 70+ locations in

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

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

Repair, remodel, well

pump. Lic/Ins. Accepts all major credit cards. Ofﬁce 656-0019, cell 382-6905.

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

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

ON-TARGET

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC.

Want to ride along? Call 644-7035 for advertising information. KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 26 years experience. Specializing in room additions, garages, vinyl siding and windows, painting, ceramic tile, laminate, hardwood and linoleum ﬂoors, and remodeling of all kinds. No job too small. Free est. Call 644-1943 or cell 362-7469.

MISC. SERVICES PERSONAL TRAINING. Call (336) 465-5867 or visit www.trainwithmarcus.com.

Wishing you a safe & happy holiday! We carry moving & shipping supplies

(336) 643-9963 • 8207 B & G Court, Stokesdale SPRUCE UP YOUR HAIR for the Holidays! Get $10 off any color or perm service (haircut is always included with color & perms). Goldwell Color Specialist. Visit www.facebook.com/HairCreationsByTheVineyard, or call (336) 382-9283.

FREE Estimates Insured & Dependable

MOBILE WELDING SERVICE Residential, wrought-iron fence & gates, custom fabrication, stainless aluminium.

Used computers, website design. Info at

Chuck, triadmobilewelding.com, 362-8679. JLB REMODELING INC.

Mailboxes & More, Oak Ridge Commons.

Licensed and insured. Free estimates. Remodeling, additions and home repairs. 681-2902, www.jlbremodeling.com.

www.goldstandard4fitness.com

Classiﬁeds are just $4/line!

...continued on p. 30

6th annual edition

coming January 2014

Services, INC.

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

LAST CHANC E TO RES

Licensed & Insured

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

ERVE YOUR AD SP ACE

NC General Contractor License #72797

(336) 644-70 35, ext. 10 advertising@n wobserver.com

ROOFING

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

Cathy Gold ( 336 ) 549-6460 4446 US Hwy 220 N, Summerfield

ITBASICS.COM – (336) 643-0068. Inside

TM Construction

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

small group fitness  personal training  RealRyder® indoor cycle  TRX training 

Tell our readers about your business!

COMPUTER REPAIRS $99.

30 yrs exp • Workmanship guarantee • Insurance specialists

(336) 644-1580

FREE PICKUP of appliances, batteries, junk mowers, air conditioners, grills, electrical items, metal items, etc. 689-4167.

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Tc. GicEes, In ARerv -Tction S OCoNnstru

Roof Replacements / Repairs Siding & Windows Custom Decks / Porches General Home Repairs Remodeling / Painting

northwest Guilford County.

MISC. SERVICES

YEAR-LONG E XPOSURE 15,000 printed annually Over 10,500 m aile to northwest ho d mes Online at nwob server.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Be included in the ONLY business directory specifically for northwest Guilford Coun ty

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

 MISC. SERVICES

T TNails Acrylic nails • Tip overlay • Pink & white Gel manicures • Liquid gels Nail designs • Spa pedicure • Waxing

(336) 644-8888

Located in Gunter’s Crossing (5820-C N Church St, Greensboro) Appointments or Walk-ins • GIFT CERTIFICATES

 MISC. FOR SALE

 REAL ESTATE

FIREWOOD

HOMES FOR RENT

HOMES FOR SALE

SEASONED FIREWOOD, delivered & stacked. 1/2 cord, $80. Call 686-6373.

SUMMERFIELD, 2BR, 1BA, appliances included, $600/mo., $600 dep. 709-0028.

FIREWOOD, seasoned hard wood, no pine. Pick up or delivery. 253-7615, 643-5744.

STOKESDALE, private furnished room with bath, single occupancy, utilities & cable TV included. $400/mo., + dep. 643-9461.

SEASONED FIREWOOD, all hardwood, free delivery. Wood splitting avail. 543-3664.

OPEN Mon - Sat, 9am - 7pm • Sun 1 - 5pm

 MISC. FOR SALE FISCHER POOL TABLE, pro & reg balls. Tight rack, pool sticks, cover, and brush. Like new. $2,000. Call 451-1538. TWO WALKERS, one w/ wheels and slides. Breast prosthesis w/ 6 bras, like new. 30cup coffee maker, barely used. 681-5657. KAWAI BABY GRAND PIANO, cherry ﬁnish, $11,500.

 MISC. WANTED

RENTAL HOME NEEDED

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

COUPLE SEEKING A 2 OR 3BR HOME, 1-3 acres for small farm lifestyle, in NW Guilford County. Rental or lease/rent-toown option. Fixer-upper ﬁne, have construction/remodeling experience. Employment veriﬁcation & excellent references available. All options considered. Please contact at (781) 264-5099.

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

Your NWO on the Go photos!

McLaurin Farm for sale Southern hospitality begins on the porch! Nearly new custom estate in gated community within minutes of Northern schools. Simple, strong & elegant details. 10+ acres on quiet cul-de-sac w/ stables, guest quarters & natural vistas. Offered at $875,000 by motivated seller.

NANCY HESS, Realtor ® (336) 215-1820

HOMES FOR SALE

Email to photos@nwobserver.com.

Antique bedroom set

(sleigh bed & dresser), $750. 430-0008.

Got Stuff?? Sell it here!

 PET / ANIMAL SERVICES LOST & FOUND FOUND GOLDEN RETRIEVER, Stokesdale area, found on Friday, December 13. Please call to identify. (336) 453-5159.

PET SITTING & BOARDING

PERSIMMON PULP, jelly, pudding, and more! 816-3441 or 996-3892. 2007 12-TON EQUIPMENT TRAILER, tandem axle, electric brakes, new paint/new tires. $6,800. (336) 669-0621. ALL NEW MATTRESS SETS.

Still in

SPOIL-ME-ROTTEN ANIMAL CARE Motto: love, compassion, respect for your pets. Professional pet sitter for 18 years. Bonded/Insured. Member, Pet Sitters Intl. Provide food, exercise, play, meds/shots, much TLC. 1-3 trips/day. $15/trip (30 min). Call 643-5242. Oak Ridge/Summerﬁeld. HORSE BOARDING, Green Acres Horse Farm, Stokesdale area. Full board & pasture board, riding trails, lots of green pastures. 707-7118.

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

Selling or Renting? Advertise it here!

PET SITTING. Caring & responsible. Holiday special, $12/30-minute visit. 601-2087.

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

PRIVACY ON TROUBLESOME CREEK 291 DARLA DRIVE, SUMMERFIELD

EIGHT GENTLY ROLLING ACRES with water view – will sub-divide. Horses allowed, creek on property, 12’ x 20’ Dutch barn. House is brick & vinyl with rockingchair front porch, white columns and wraparound deck. 2,700 sq. ft. on main level and second floor, plus 900 sq. ft. daylight basement with summer kitchen and bath. Basement opens onto patio and 18’ x 36’ in-ground pool. Two-story foyer, formal LR & DR, 9 ft. ceilings, 4BR, 3.5 BA on 1st & 2nd floors plus office or extra BR. Master on both main and second floors, two fireplaces, hardwoods in living area, granite countertops and new appliances in kitchen. Oversized 2-car garage. Awesome views from porch, deck and every window! NW Greensboro, near Edgefield & Hwy. 68. Shown by appt. only, (336) 908-4189.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Get away from it all in this 5100+sf/16+ac, 4BR/4BA “low country” estate with: master on main, incredible kitchen, finished basement, salt water pool, hot tub on multi-level deck, wrap-around porch w/covered walkway to garage, gated entry & tree-lined drive...all bordering historic Troublesome Creek…$668,000.

Waban Carter 336-601-6363

waban.carter@bhhsyostandlittle.com

VACATION PROPERTY HOLDEN BEACH AREA, mobile home, excellent condition on 2 corner lots, fully furnished w/ all appliances including W/D, carport, central H & A/C, workshop, county water, 5K generator. 1/4 mi. from ICW, $62,000. (336) 298-7998.

display advertiser index thanks to all the advertisers who partnered with us to bring you this free community resource A/C & HeAting Stokesdale Heating & Air...................... 12 Velocity Air, Inc. ...................................... 5

ACCounting Carlotta Lytton, CPA, PA ......................22 Kimberly Thacker Accounting.................2 Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC........22

Automotive serviCes Tire Max Complete Car Care ...............14

builders Building Dimensions ..............................4

CHiroprACtiC

insurAnCe

Oak Ridge Chiropractic .......................15 Summerfield Family Chiropractic ...........8

Gladwell Insurance Agency................... 18 Triad Insurance.....................................23

CHurCHes

legAl serviCes

Central Baptist Church ........................23 Community Bible Church.....................19 Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church ...........15

Attorney Bill Barbour .............................. 5

The Northwest FINDER ........................29 The Northwest Observer.......................32

mediCAl / eye CAre

reAl estAte / mortgAge

dentists / ortHodontiCs

Eagle Family Medicine, Oak Ridge .........7 Focus MD ............................................... 3 LeBauer HealthCare............................. 19 Novant Health ......................................25 Southeastern Eye Center ........................ 6

Borden Dentistry..................................10 Kaley Orthodontics ................................7

employment opportunities Highways & Skyways of NC, Inc. ........27

misCellAneous

finAnCiAl plAnning

Preservation Oak Ridge .......................13 ROADS..................................................2 Veterans of Foreign Wars.....................13

Gate City Advisors .................................8

funerAl serviCes Forbis & Dick - Brooke Chapel ...............2

pet serviCes

Home produCts & serviCes BEK Paint .............................................22 ProStone Inc. ....................................... 11

Country Kennel ....................................22 Northwest Animal Hospital ...................22 Spoil-Me-Rotten Animal Care, Inc. .......22

Stokesdale Veterinary Hospital................2 Westergaard Kennels............................22

publisHing Co / newspAper

A New Dawn Realty ............................... 2 Berkshire Hathaway Home Services .......9 Bobbie Gardner / Allen Tate .................22 Nancy Hess / Keller Williams ................30 Ramilya Seigel / Allen Tate ................... 11 Waban Carter / Berkshire Hathaway.....30

retAil A.B. Seed ............................................. 13 BiRite Food Center ..........................16-17 Dewey’s Holiday Store ............................ 3 Goodwill Industries ............................... 21 Hardin Farm & Stable........................... 13 Purgason’s............................................ 13 The Fat Cat, Ltd. ................................. 13

TO RESERVELAST CHANCE YOUR AD SP ACE Contact us to be included in the ONLY busi ness directory specifically for northwest Guil ford County (336 ) 644-7035, e xt. 10 | adve rtising@nwobse rver.com

6 annual th

edition comin g January 201 4 The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

YEAR-LONG E XPOSURE

15,000 printed annually Over 10,500 m ailed to northw est homes Online at nwob server.com

DEC. 20, 2013 - JAN. 9, 2014

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Postal Patron

Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22

PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310 â&#x20AC;˘ (336) 644-7035

ECRWSS

Happy Holidays

from all of us here at

Laura Troeger Laura Pullins

associate publisher

Sean Gentile

Patti Stokes editor/publisher

editorial assistant

Annette Joyce staff writer

Leon Stokes technology director

art director

Linda Schatz distribution manager

Yvonne Truhon page layout

Lucy Smith finance manager

Not pictured: contributing writers Helen Ledford and Sharon Neely