Northwest Observer | Dec. 19 - Jan 8, 2014 by PS Communications / Connect2 NWGuilford

Dec. 19, 2014 - Jan. 8, 2015

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Northern Guilford claims fourth state football championship in ﬁve years by L.A. LOGAN From the first game of the 2014 football season to the last, the Northern Guilford Nighthawks never considered losing as an option. Under the leadership of coach Johnny Roscoe, who returned to his head coaching position after taking last year off, the team lost only one game during the regular season, against Eastern Alamance.

Photo courtesy of Strawbridge Studios

(L to R) Eric Hong, Mook Reynolds, head football coach Johnny Roscoe, Duncan Taylor-Dean and Cam Harris celebrating with the 3AA state championship banner and trophy after defeating Weddington 14-7 on Dec. 13.

Water rates to increase Notiﬁcation of increase will be in red print on customers’ water bills; increase to take effect in March by PATTI STOKES STOKESDALE – Challenged with water contamination in the late 1990s, the Stokesdale Town Council was faced with the choice of dealing with the problem on a case-by-case basis or establishing a water system that would benefit the entire town and provide for the future. Opting for the latter, the town applied

for state funding and in 2000 received a $3 million grant from The State Department of Environment and Natural Resources to construct a water system. Construction on the system was completed in July 2003. Since then, residents and businesses along the path of the system’s water lines have been able to voluntarily hook up to the system. To date, the town of about 5,400 residents has 365 combined residential and commercial water system customers – and the system continues to operate in the red as it has done

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The Nighthawks went on to defeat all four of their opponents in the playoffs, earning their place on the field of Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh on Dec. 13 to fight for

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SRA, town reach compromise After going head-to-head with the town over athletic park usage fees, SRA will return to the athletic park next spring by KRISTIN KUBLY SUMMERFIELD – A resolution on athletic park usage fees has finally been reached between the Town of Summerfield and the Summerfield Recreation Association. On Dec. 12, Summerfield Parks and Recreation Manager Jeff Goard and SRA president Barry Wesoly came to an agreement after several months of negotiations. SRA had been paying steeply discounted

IN THIS ISSUE News in brief ........................................3 Your Questions ....................................4 Summerfield Town Council ...............6 Bits & Pieces ......................................12 High School Sports ...........................14 Christmas bells, good will ...............15 Stokesdale Parade Photos ..............16 The joy of giving ...............................17 Volunteer firefighters needed ........19 NWO On The Go! ..............................20 Community Calendar .....................21 Crime/Incident Report ....................22 Letters/Opinions ..............................24 Grins & Gripes ...................................26 Classifieds ....................................27 Index of Advertisers .................... 31

We’ ll be back in print Jan. 9 Stay connected with us over the holidays at /NorthwestObserver

fees for using the facilities at Summerfield Athletic Park since Feb. 2012, when the town council voted to give the organization a reduced rate of $10/hour per field, plus waive the $10/hour charge for lights. It was implied, but not explicitly stated, that the discounted rates would only be in effect for one season. However, until last spring, SRA continued to pay the discounted rates. Summerfield charges other groups $15/ hour for residents and $25/hour for non-resident teams to use the facilities at the athletic park. To be considered for the resident rate, at least 60 percent of registered players must live within the Town of Summerfield.

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NEWS in brief

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Gas prices – how low will they go? UNITED STATES – Drivers this Christmas season will have a little more jingle in their pockets thanks to gas prices falling an average of 72 cents per gallon below what they were this time last year. According to the gas price-tracking site GasBuddy.com, that price drop has resulted in Americans saving an estimated $250 million per day on gasoline compared to a year ago. In response to changing world supply (including an increase in U.S. oil production) and a decrease in demand, oil prices are at a five-year low; that has brought the nationwide average price of gas down to $2.51 per gallon, compared to $3.23 per gallon in December 2013. And in some states where prices are traditionally lower than the average –

including Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, and Virginia – gas prices have already dipped to $2 per gallon, with analysts predicting prices will continue to drop through the spring. “Nearly half of us (44 percent) find year-end travel stressful and the greatest single cause of it, apparently, is traffic (37 percent), with inclement weather (27 percent) followed closely by cost (26 percent),” Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst with GasBuddy.com said recently. “But with some extra cash in our pockets, that may help many of us get an early start and avoid the traffic with 36 percent of travelers saying they’re hitting the road on Saturday, Dec. 20, or Sunday, Dec. 21.”

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We’re taking a break NW GUILFORD – Our staff at PS Communications, publisher of the Northwest Observer, will take a break from deadlines and production over the weeks of Christmas and New Year’s, so this will be our last printed issue in 2014. The Northwest Observer will resume its weekly in-print schedule on Jan. 9, 2015. Though we won’t be in print over the holidays, we’ll continue to keep you ap-

prised of local news and happenings on our Facebook page, so please check in with us at www.Facebook.com/ NorthwestObserver. The PS Communications office will be closed Tuesday-Friday, Dec. 23-26, and Thursday, Jan. 1. On all other business days over the holiday season our office drop-in hours will be as usual, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Our agency wishes you a

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Shrimp Connection in limbo SUMMERFIELD – When Guy Morrison, operations manager and self-described “chief bottle washer” for The Shrimp Connection in Summerfield, closed up shop at Summerfield Farms on Pleasant Ridge Road last month, he had plans to relocate within days to property he would share with The Garden Outlet on U.S. 220, which is adjacent to Summerfield Athletic Park. Morrison hit a snag, however, when

Summerfield’s town planner told him his open air seafood market, which is a non-conforming business according to the town’s development ordinance, would need to be brought into compliance Morrison says he has over 1,600 customers in northwest Guilford County alone who are now without the fresh seafood he has delivered to the community every weekend for the last three years.

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Though the U.S. 220 widening project is behind schedule, NCDOT engineer Kris Lorenz says it is still on track for completion in December 2016.

online: nwobserver.com e-mail: questions@ nwobserver.com According to the NCDOT construction progress report website, the U.S. 220 widening project from Horse Pen Creek Road to the existing N.C. 68 and U.S. 220 intersection is only 39.96 percent complete versus a scheduled progress of 64 percent complete. The project got underway on May 9, 2012 and the original completion date was to be July 1, 2016; the estimated completion date is now Dec. 27, 2016.

bridge work at N.C. 65 and over the Haw River. Lorenz also said the bridge over U.S. 158 should be taken out soon. “Tetra Tech’s plans are to do as much as they can to try to get back on schedule and then get several things ready to shift traffic between N.C. 150 in early spring.” Lorenz cautions those who frequently drive on U.S. 220 to be prepared for NCDOT to be “messing with traffic a lot” in the near future. “It will be a real inconvenience from this point to the end for a lot of people; unfortunately, that’s

How did this project get so far behind and what will be done to get this project back on schedule?

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

“And especially with the new N.C. 68 connector done about the same time that we’re scheduled to be done, it will make it easier for people to get to the airport. Also, people from Virginia can come down the new I-73 interstate, connect to I-40 and help take traffic off N.C. 68 as well.”

A Greensboro native, Layne began her nursing career with Cone Health in 1996, caring for patients in medical intensive care, neuro-surgical intensive care and emergency. She believes health is strongly influenced by lifestyle: food choices, exercise, sleep, stressors and relationships. Her goal is to create a partnership that leads patients to be their best. Layne and her husband, Dennis, have two sons, Luke and Grant. In her free time, she watches basketball and soccer, and when time permits, she enjoys sewing and growing flowers.

As an out-of-state contractor, one challenge Tetra Tech has faced is getting used to the red clay, Lorenz said.

Though earth moving and paving will slow down over the winter months, there will be significant structural work taking place, Lorenz said. That work will include placing two culverts near where Ogburn Mill Road intersects with U.S. 220 and

When the project is complete and the road is widened from two lanes to four lanes, Lorenz said those traveling on U.S. 220 will have a smoother ride and less traffic backups.

Layne Weaver RN, FNP

NCDOT’s Kris Lorenz, senior assistant resident engineer, confirmed the project is behind schedule, but says the contractor, Tetra Tech, has done a lot of work in the last few months to rectify that and she believes the project will be completed by December 2016.

“Red clay is very sensitive to rain. If it rains even lightly, it makes the clay harder to work with and takes three or four days before the contractor can do anything with it.”

just the nature of urban widening.”

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“Two weeks ago, after Thanksgiving, we decided to move (from Summerfield Farms),” Morrison said. “The folks at the Garden Outlet invited us there. We would upgrade, have a building, awning, service window, etc. I don’t even think you’d be able to see it from the road …” Grace Snow, also a Shrimp Connection customer, said that not only did the business bring fresh fish to the community, but it also brought a sense of integrity to small businesses.

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Town Planner Julie Reid says she and the town attorney are currently reviewing temporary uses and use of temporary buildings, as well as provisions for an “itinerant merchant,” which is defined as a person, other than a merchant with an established retail store in the county, who transports an inventory of goods to a building, vacant lot, or other location in a county and who, at that location, displays the goods for sale and sells the goods at retail or offers the goods for sale at retail.” Some of these items may be clarified in an ordinance amendment, Reid said.

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Two months later, in November, the town council voted 4-1 to issue a stay on the violation while it considered a text amendment to the development ordinance that addressed businesses considered to be temporary, or operating in temporary structures. No additional action was taken, and the Shrimp Connection continued to operating as a non-conforming business after moving to Summerfield Farms.

Guy Morrison said he has operated in Summerfield for the last three years with the approval of the town council, who understood his was a nonconventional business.

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Speaking on behalf of her husband’s business, Diana Morrison said the situation was discouraging to other local businesses.

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“Small businesses are a boon to the economy and support the health of the residents. Cities need to be supporting small businesses,” she said.

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Jody Jones, a Greensboro resident, said she was a Shrimp Connection “fan and customer.”

1715 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge (336) 643-7684 www.oakridgecbc.org

Monique Lallier said she appreciated the high-quality seafood from North Carolina and thought the town should facilitate The Shrimp Connection’s relocation to the Garden Outlet property.

This is not the first time The Shrimp Connection has faced obstacles due . Rd ille v to operating out of what is considered s er rn Ke receiving a temporary structure. After a concessionary permit in February 2012, Morrison was notified the following September that the permit which had allowed his business to temporarily continue operating had expired, which meant it was operating in violation of Old Sale the town’s development ordinance. mR d

“It’s local, taxes are going to Summerfield and it’s healthy,” said Jodi Isenberg, a former employee.

“When a business leaves an existing location, they are subject to that,” Whitaker said. “The town learned about this move eight days ago and we’ve been working with them as best we can … we’re willing to work with Mr. Morrison and The Shrimp Connection and will do our best to bring the business into compliance.”

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“I feel so privileged to have this opportunity to buy food that is not from China and mainly sourced from North Carolina. Guy Morrison has done a fabulous job to bring this healthy option to us,” Andres said.

Join us every

Several of Morrison’s customers gladly did so, including Cheryl Andres, who said she was a loyal customer of The Shrimp Connection.

In response, Town Manager Scott Whitaker said the issue was not about the goodness of The Shrimp Connection’s product but about a process that the town has in place for any business, and that process involves an application, review and approval.

Last week he sent an email to those customers and asked them to attend the Summerfield Town Council meeting on Dec. 9 and speak on his behalf.

NEWS in brief

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DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

11/20/14 3:34 PM

SUMMERFIELD town council

Dec. 9 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by PATTI STOKES  Mayor Tim Sessoms called the monthly council meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Sessoms announced there will be a meeting in January (date to be determined) for any local business professionals interested in joining a Summerfield merchants association which is in the planning stages. Look for more details after the first of the year.

PUBLIC COMMENTS  Cheryl Andres , Jodi Isenberg, Monique Lallier, Jody Jones, Diana Morrison, Guy Morrison, Grace Snow and Gail Dunham all spoke in favor of The Shrimp Connection and supported its request to relocate to property it would share with The Garden Outlet on U.S. 220 (adjacent to Summerfield Athletic Park).

The Shrimp Connection operated from December 2011 until May 2013 at Old Summerfield Shopping Center (corner of U.S. 220 and Auburn Road), before relocating to Summerfield Farms, where it operated until last month. Because the business’ sales operations have been for the most part conducted in an open-air seafood market setting – i.e., in a tent versus a brick-and-mortar building, it has been operating as a nontraditional business according to Summerfield’s development ordinance. When the business recently applied to relocate to the Garden Outlet property, Guy Morrison, Shrimp Connection’s operations manager, was told it was a non-conforming business and its application would have to be reviewed. In the meantime, Morrison is

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temporarily out of business and he and his customers are anxious for a resolution. See News Briefs on page 3 for more on this discussion.  Adrian Williamson said there was discussion about sidewalks at the November town council meeting and he thought “that deal had already been discussed and done away with.” Williamson said he was not in favor of the town installing sidewalks. Also at the November meeting the town council discussed reviewing the comprehensive plan at their retreat in January. With volunteer citizens spending a couple years working on the plan and the town paying a consultant over $300,000 to help develop it, Williamson said the council should be cautious about making any changes to the plan. And finally, Williamson said there had also been mention of reviewing the need for water (in response to the fire department’s request for the town to consider options for making water more accessible for emergencies in which water tankers would need to be filled quickly). “As spread out as this town is, how are we going to put in a water system?” Williamson asked.  Gail Dunham said she had tried to call Town Hall several times earlier in the day and didn’t get an answer, so wondered why it was closed (Finance Officer Katrina Whitt assured Dunham she had been at Town Hall all day and it had been open for business). Regarding The Shrimp Connection, Dunham said it was a small business, had been treated poorly by the town, and should be able to do business without being harassed in any way. “Maybe we have too many employees spending too much time trying to manipulate and micromanage,” Dunham said. Regarding council and town staff members attending a Christmas gathering at Mayor Sessoms’ house on Dec. 16, which had been posted on the town’s website for full disclosure purposes, Dunham said council members would inevitably discuss business at the gathering and, with a majority of the council in attendance,

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that constituted an illegal meeting. Finally, Dunham said the town did not have a master plan and it should disclose its plans before going into executive session to discuss a property acquisition.

COMMITTEE REPORTS Public Safety. Committee member Dwayne Crawford advised those using fireplaces with wood to clean their chimney, and if heating their home with oil or gas, to get a carbon monoxide detector. The committee is developing a written plan of execution for hooking up the town-owned generator in the case of a major power outage within the town. Fire Chief Chris Johnson recently gave the committee a presentation that included three options for the department to access water in emergency situations, Crawford said. Speaking “purely on the merits of fire protection,” and not to the issue of cost, the committee recommended the council consider the chief’s preference for pressurized fire hydrants. Council member Alicia Flowers asked who was responsible for starting the generator if there were a power outage and Crawford said that detail was being worked out and will be addressed in the written plan. The fire department is prepared to haul the generator to wherever it is needed, but if department personnel were out on another emergency, Crawford and Mayor Sessoms have both volunteered to tow the generator with their vehicles if needed. Trails and Open Space. Chairperson Jane Doggett said the committee would meet again on Dec. 17, contingent upon whether it could get all the information it was trying to compile on right-of-ways and property availability for a possible trail route. Audit report. Rex Rouse of Rouse, Rouse, Penn & Rouse presented the annual audit report, pointing out several key items of interest:  In the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, the general fund balance increased from $8,071,243 to $8,086,588 (this figure includes liabilities of $36,692).

 Total revenues were down by about $6,538 for the fiscal year, mostly attributed to interest income on investment earnings being abnormally low. “And that’s a real problem for the Town of Summerfield, which has $8 million in the bank,” Rouse said.  The town spent $411,365 last fiscal year to acquire the Gordon property.  Fees from planning and zoning services were up from $94,836 to $130,490 last fiscal year.  Total expenditures were up from $768,361 to $1,273,56 last fiscal year; most of the increase was attributed to the Gordon property acquisition.  The town sold 28 acres bordering the Armfield subdivision to the Dept. of Transportation for $98,000. (I-73 will bisect the land, which was gifted to the town in 2008 by the Edward M. Armfield Sr. Foundation as a condition for agreeing to rezone a 577-acre tract for the Armfield subdivision).  Revenue exceeded expenses by $18,760, which brought the end-of-fiscal year total fund balance to $8,047,206.  The town’s property tax collection rate is 99.52 percent, excluding tax on registered motor vehicles. “I’ve been auditing municipalities for over 50 years and this is only the third time I’ve performed an audit and had no adjustments. You have an excellent finance officer,” Rouse told the council.

TOWN MANAGER Committee appointments. Whitaker presented a slate of Founders’ Day Committee members for 2015, which included four citizens who served last year, one new applicant, the mayor, town manager, finance officer, fire department representative, and the town clerk and parks and recreation manager, both of whom are non-voting members.

 5  0 to accept the slate of committee members as recommended.

Project updates. Whitaker explained that Greensboro Urban Area MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization) is in the early stages of updating its 2040

Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). For any significant project to be selected in the Transportation Improvement Program, it must first be listed in the LRTP. Council member Elizabeth McClellan asked if a feasibility study was supposed to be done for a roundabout at the Pleasant Ridge and Summerfield Road intersection, to which Whitaker responded discussion about that had taken place before he began working for the town and he had not seen any documentation on it. Barnes said she remembered the fire department expressing concerns about trucks being able to make their turns at that spot if a roundabout were added (particularly if turning left out of Station 9 onto Summerfield Road). After further discussion, the council agreed that the area near the elementary school has some issues that need to be addressed and the town will submit a request for “potential roundabout or alternatives to improving traffic flow near the elementary school.” Flowers then asked about bicycle lanes on N.C. 150 East and West and was told that would involve spending about $20 million to widen the road. Regarding the town’s “wish list” for road improvements, Flowers asked, “If this goes into the MPO thoroughfare plan, how will it affect property owners who might have property on N.C. 150?” Town Attorney Bill Hill responded there would be a public hearing before any major projects got underway. Council next discussed the issue of potential sidewalks on Summerfield Road, since that has been a topic of discussion for the Trails Committee. “If we decide the trail is coming up Summerfield Road and we have to have sidewalks, who will be responsible for putting them in – the town or DOT?” asked Flowers. Whitaker said that depended on if it was on MPO’s list for funding . “I’m not that in favor of it (sidewalks), but I think it is fine to leave it on there and see how MPO ranks it,” said McClellan. Council agreed to add “potential improvements to help with the traffic flow around the school” to the most recent list

of requested projects to be considered for funding and submit the list to MPO. Water needs. Whitaker reminded the council that in April, when the annual budget was being developed, there had been discussion about the fire department’s concerns regarding access to water in emergencies. “At that time I brought the question to you, ‘Are we interested in a municipal water system or improving fire protection?’ The clear answer was, ‘We are just interested in improving fire protection.’ You directed the Public Safety Committee to come back with direction as to how the town might help … the committee is now recommending the town consider a feasibility study to evaluate the fire department’s preference for pressurized hydrants at key points in town.” After discussion, council agreed to invite Fire Chief Chris Johnson to attend the Feb. 10 council meeting and make a presentation about the department’s needs for water access and options for how to address those needs. Whitaker announced there would be a Legislative Meet and Greet on Jan. 7 at 4 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall and representatives from Oak Ridge, Summerfield and Stokesdale will be there to meet with legislators and county commissioners. The public is invited. Referring to a recent accident near the town’s athletic park on U.S. 220, which ultimately required emergency personnel to land a helicopter on the multipurpose

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field and airlift someone to Baptist Hospital, Whitaker asked if the town council would consider designating the field as an official landing zone (LZ). “The idea was, if there was some kind of emergency like that, why not let the fire chief and one other person have the code to turn on the lights at the field?” Whitaker asked. Council agreed to designate the field as an official LZ. Regarding Rhondan Road improvements, Whitaker said he had followed up with DOT and the right-of-way agent planned to meet with a property owner Dec. 15.

OTHER BUSINESS  5  0 Council voted 5-0 to approve

the 2015 meeting schedule as presented. Flowers said she attended a reception the previous week for Marine Lance Cpl. Terry Sharpe, a Summerfield resident, and Allen Brown. The two men walked to Washington, D.C., not once but twice to bring attention to the fact that a fellow Marine had been arrested in Mexico on March 31 and at the time was still being detained. Flowers said she enjoyed meeting Sharpe and Brown, as well as Katrina Blankenship, who publishes an online news source in central Virginia. Closed Session. After a closed session to discuss “the price and other material terms concerning real property” which lasted just over an hour, the council reconvened and immediately adjourned at about 9:40 p.m.

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DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

CHAMPIONS ...continued from p. 1

to t i a w t Don’

the state championship title. There, Northern faced the Weddington Warriors, a team the Nighthawks had defeated in the third round of last year’s playoffs. After receiving the ball first, Northern stormed down the field, intent on scoring the game’s first touchdown. Quarterback Cam Harris’ pass was tipped and intercepted, giving the Warriors a chance to score off the turnover.

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Out of nowhere, defensive end Tre Marsh leaped in the air, picked off the pass and returned it 19 yards for the first score of the game, 7-0. “I was pumped,” said Marsh. “I knew momentum was on our side.”

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Later in the first quarter, running back CJ Freeman increased the lead, 14-0, with a 13-yard touchdown, following his offensive linemen into the end zone. But just when Northern looked to break the game open in the second quarter, Freeman suffered a left foot injury that forced him out of the game. On the ensuing play, Harris’ pass fell incomplete on fourth-and-11 while on Weddington’s 15-yard line.

The Warriors capitalized, driving 72 yards for their only score of the game. In response, the Nighthawks defense stepped up, forcing two more interceptions, both by Harris, who extended the school record for interceptions to 13. When the clock ran out, Northern, up 14-7, had claimed the 3AA state championship for the fourth time in five years. “Faith without work is dead,” said wide receiver Mook Reynolds. “I spoke of winning a state championship, and my team worked for it … We learned from our loss (to Eastern Alamance earlier in the season) and finished strong.” Despite an early exit from his injury, Freeman was named the most outstanding offensive player. Immediately after he was presented with the award, he hobbled over to thank his teammates. “I wanted everyone to know the offensive line is the real MVP,” said Freeman. “I couldn’t have done anything without them. It’s all thanks to the big boys in the trenches.” Marsh was awarded the most outstanding defensive player, and Harris was named the MVP. “I have accomplished my goals,” said Harris. “Leading the guys … is the best feeling.”

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from all of us at

Yvonne Truhon page layout

, publisher of the Northwest Observer

Lucy Smith finance manager Laura Reneer associate publisher

Annette Joyce advertising manager/ contributing writer Patti Stokes editor/publisher

Leon Stokes IT manager

L.A. Logan sports/community writer

Sean Gentile art director

Linda Schatz distribution manager

tin Kubly and Helen Ledford Not pictured: contributing writers Kris

Weâ€™ll be taking a 2-week break ...but look for us back in print on Jan. 9

d necte ys at n o c Stay e holida berver ver th rthwestO o s u o to om/N c . k o o faceb

WATER RATE

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...continued from p. 1

New Year’s Eve

for the last 11 years. In recent months, town council members have held numerous Friday afternoon water system workshops in which they have familiarized themselves with the system’s operations, revenue and expenses, and discussed ways to increase its customer base.

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Though Stokesdale has periodically increased the rates its municipal water system customers pay for water, it has still not kept pace with the rate the town pays the City of Winston-Salem to purchase water. After consulting with the School of Government in Chapel Hill, the town council, which knew that continuously operating the system in the red was undesirable, learned it was also in violation of the state statute that deals with municipal water systems and how they operate. And on that note, the council recently took steps it hopes will eventually bring its municipal water system to a break-even status. About 10 minutes into the Dec. 11 town council meeting, Mayor Randy Braswell motioned to increase the rate for water sold to all customers, “matching the rate Winston-Salem is currently billing the Town of Stokesdale.” He suggested that notice of the rate increase be printed in red ink on the front of customers’ next few months’ water bills, beginning with the one that customers would receive around Dec. 19, and that on the notice would be the total dollar amount customers would pay per 1,000 gallons, effective February 2015. The new rate will increase the amount Stokesdale municipal water system customers pay from $3 per 1,000 gallons of water to $5.30 per 1,000 gallons of water; the average family of four uses 4,000 gallons of water per month, so the rate increase would equate to an additional $10 per month. “I’m not on the water system, but if I

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

had an increase of $10, I’d be okay with it,” said council member Frank Bruno. Council member Vicki White-Lawrence agreed rates the town charges for water should be brought in line with what the town pays for water, but she expressed concerns that making such a significant rate increase effective with the February water bill would not give customers sufficient notice. Also, she questioned whether it would be better to impose the increase over a period of time versus delivering a 76 percent increase all at once. “I know that continues to put us further behind. I know we need to do it, but I think that is such a big jump all at one time,” White-Lawrence said. “The problem with doing it in increments is that we’re going to need to increase it every two months,” said council member Bill Jones. “I think it needs to be stressed that the water system is still not operating in the black … and, we were told that we’re not eligible for any other state grants for things like chlorinators because we’re operating in the red. “I think you just have to bite the bullet,” he said. Council member Joe Thacker agreed it made no sense to charge less for water than what the town pays for it. “I’m afraid if we throw this $2.30 increase out there all at one time, that will have a big impact on getting anybody else on the water system,” he said. Thacker also said he felt the town should send a letter to all of its water system customers, explaining the need for the increase. “I would love to see this (meeting) room full, but I certainly don’t want to see it full from folks who are a little disappointed because their water bill went up and they didn’t know it.” “We know there are significant amounts of money we’re going to have to spend on the water tank – about $150,000 to $200,000 – very soon, so we need to be thinking about that also,”

said council member Frank Bruno.

will be a cheap price,” Braswell said.

“It is very rare that you have a business that loses more money as its sales increase,” Braswell responded. “And I don’t think we’re going to send an invoice out there to anyone who doesn’t understand that.

“If you try to phase it in over three or four years, you’ll have more increases from Winston and I don’t see how we’re going to ever catch up,” Jones said. “I still think it’s an absolute necessity, even though it’s not something I’m happy about doing.”

“This increases some revenue. We won’t get above the black line for a couple of years – maybe five years … I think it’s our responsibility and duty to at least get even with Winston,” the mayor continued. “It is going to draw public comment, but that’s when we have to be straight with them (citizens) that this does not get us in the black. And I don’t think that there is a municipality in North Carolina that is going to operate for very long in the red.”

Thacker said it seemed odd to him that the town would try to catch up all at one time when it has been behind for several years.

White-Lawrence reiterated her main concern was with making such a big increase all at one time. “They (citizens) expect us to make tough decisions and I think this is one of the toughest,” Braswell responded. “When the questions come in, we want to be straight with the public that this is a lot, but it’s not the whole way. “We’re going to have to get pretty aggressive if we’re going to run it (the system) – not to necessarily have a cash cow, but to have a system that provides a safe product. Right now it’s high, but the next drought that comes through, it

“My idea is to increase it over two years’ time and at least give customers a heads up on how to budget,” he said. “Regarding raising revenue – I’m the only one tonight who has said anything about adding new customers to raise revenue. I strongly believe that is the best way. This water system is part of the future of Stokesdale and should be used to the advantage of all the people in this town … I feel there are people in this town who would be willing to hook onto the system … That’s what we really need – more customers.”

After further discussion about anticipated future capital expenditures for painting the water tank, purchasing a chlorinator, and other items related to operating the system long-term, the council voted 4-1 to match WinstonSalem’s water rate of $5.30 per 1,000 gallons, with the notification of the increased rate to be put on the December 2014, January, February and March 2015 water bills in red print; the rate increase will take effect in March. Thacker, who voted against the motion, said he still felt the town should educate its residents about the system. “If we let them know we have an asset here that will help them in the future,

they might be more willing to give up their wells,” he said. “It’s a hard sell,” Braswell responded. “What’s going to sell water is new developments and a drought. And I’m hoping we don’t have another drought.”

want to go? The town council will hold a series of question and answer sessions regarding the town’s water system and the increase in water rates. The first of these sessions will be held Friday, Dec. 19, 2:30-4:30 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. Additional sessions will be scheduled in January and February. For more info, email stoksdl@bellsouth.net.

Braswell said the more water the town sells at the current rate, the more money it loses. “I think you have to try to do everything – you have to do this increase and you have to try to get more customers,” Jones said. “You don’t go to WalMart and pay $5 for a pair of shoes that they paid $10 for.”

Stokesdale Water Rate Increase

Q&A SESSIONS

Join Stokesdale Town Council for a series of discussions about the town’s water system and the recent increase in water rates

Friday, Dec. 19 • 2:30-4:30pm Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road Additional meeting times to be announced For more info, contact a council member (contact info at stokesdale.org) or call town hall at (336) 643-4011

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DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

11/12/14 4:46 PM

BITS & PIECES

Along with teacher Kara Winicki, members of Northwest High School’s FCCLA Club (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) recently took Christmas gifts and food for residents of Pathways Center, a housing program of Greensboro Urban Ministry. While there, the students also did crafts with the children and Santa made a surprise visit to distribute the gifts.

Phillips earns Eagle award Troop 110 is proud to announce Patrick Phillips has earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Patrick is the son of Michael and Donna Phillips of StokesPhillips dale, a senior at NWHS and is employed by Lowes Foods of Oak Ridge. He is a member of the German National Honor Society and The National Technical Honor Society. Patrick’s Eagle project was a custom pergola for Stokesdale Elementary School. In addition, he replaced the gravel with mulch and rimmed the entire structure with pavers.

Photo courtesy of Kara Winicki

Email your

Community News to: communitynews@ nwobserver.com

Give The gift of

confidence Sign up for a January Karate session before Dec. 23, 2014 and get a FREE uniform Boys & girls ages 4 and up A $50 value! New students only. Offer valid at 1941 New Garden Road location)

Contact Mike Carr to register

(336) 288-6141 or (336) 339-8062 mikecarrkarate@yahoo.com www.mikecarrkarate.com

Wanted: music lovers Do you have a love for music and would like to join an adult community choir in Stokesdale? No requirements other than showing up once a week for two hours in the morning and perform-

North wins gift wrap contest Northern High School senior Rachel North, 17, was recently named the News & Record Annual Gift Wrap Contest winner. Rachel’s entry, which featured polar bears surrounded by red Santa

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

hats and ornaments, was selected from 187 pieces entered into the competition. This is the second consecutive year that a Northern High School student has won this contest.

Students challenged to read during holiday break GUILFORD COUNTY – Guilford County Schools is encouraging every student and parent to continue reading 20 minutes a day over the holidays with the Holiday Reading Challenge. Students who read a total of 300 minutes, equivalent to 20 minutes for 15 days, will be eligible for prizes including iPad minis, Barnes & Noble gift cards and tickets to a UNCG men’s basketball game. “The holidays are the perfect time

ing at least twice a year. You do not have to be able to read music. Just come fellowship, sing and enjoy yourself. If interested, please call Sondra at (336) 453-8017.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

for students to read what they enjoy,” says Beth Folger, chief academic officer for GCS. “It doesn’t matter if they spend those 20 minutes reading a novel, a magazine or a comic book, as long as they’re reading.” Reading just 20 minutes a day builds vocabulary, increases overall literacy, prepares children for increased workloads in college and builds a love of reading that can support other academic areas.

... continued on p. 25

Worship with us

on Christmas Eve Photo courtesy of John Heckman

Santa comes to Countryside Stokesdale’s Boy Scout Troop 110 celebrated Christmas with senior citizens at Countryside Village on U.S. 158 in Stokesdale by bringing them an early Christmas dinner, singing carols and even bringing in Santa from the North Pole to hear their Christmas wishes and play Bingo with them.

Family worship in the Family Life Center | 4pm Contemporary worship in the Family Life Center | 7pm Traditional worship in the sanctuary | 9:30 pm

Regular Sunday worship: Traditional worship in the sanctuary | 8:15am Contemporary worship in the Family Life Center | 9:45am Precious Memories worship in the sanctuary | 10:00am Blended worship in the sanctuary | 11:15am Join us this holiday season and in the new year. Our church is growing – come grow with us!

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

Bears for UMAR Members of Stokesdale United Methodist Church’s mission team handmade 260 stuffed teddy bears out of new and recycled fabric and sent them to children in Armenia this summer; the group recently gathered again to make more bears for UMAR in Reidsville, an organization which provides a day program for adults with mental development challenges. Teddy bears will also be made to give to the Stokesdale ﬁre department and the sheriff’s department, for children who experience trauma. Shown in photo are some, but not all, of the mission team’s members – front row, L to R: Judy Wray, Mahalia McGee and Becky Wilson; Back row, L to R: Katelyn Jones, Lyn Simmons, Kathryn Richardson, Ruby Matthews, Nancy Southern and Sally Baxter.

2424 Oak Ridge Rd., Oak Ridge, NC 27310 • (336) 643-4690 www.oakridgeumc.org

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

HIGH SCHOOL HOOPS

Dec. 19, the 5th annual Northwest Holiday Shootout sponsored by Novant Health will be played at Northwest.

Dec. 18: Calvary vs. Northwest (7:30 p.m.) Dec. 19: Bartlett Yancey vs. Northwest (7:30 p.m.)

Northwest boys varsity basketball (6-0) Northwest Guilford hosted Western Guilford on Thursday, Dec. 11, and as expected, Northwest trounced Western 90-48. The Vikings outscored the Hornets 22-5 during the first five minutes of the second quarter, extending their lead to 25 by halftime. First-year guard Tre Turner had a career night, scoring 20 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. Forward Sam Covington put in 15 points and guards Jalen Spicer and Jaylen Gore each had 11 points and 7 assists.

Photo courtesy of Andy Gore

Northwest guard Jalen Spicer (#2) hangs in the air for a scoop layup as Northwest blew out Western 90-48.

As we went to press, Northwest was scheduled to face Southern Alamance on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at Northwest Guilford. Up next | Thursday, Dec. 18 – Friday,

Northwest girls varsity basketball (6-0) With the help of power forward/ center Morgan Pointer, the undefeated Northwest Vikings delivered a decisive blow to Western Guilford, defeating the Hornets 72-28 on Dec. 11. At one point in the first quarter, the Vikings forced the Hornets to turn the ball over six times in a row, leading to a 33-9 lead. Pointer scored a game-high 14 points and guard Toni Tucker finished with 13 points. As we went to press, Northwest was scheduled to face Southern Alamance on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at Northwest Guilford. Up next | Thursday, Dec. 18 – Friday, Dec. 19, the 5th annual Northwest Holiday Shootout sponsored by Novant Health at Northwest. Dec. 18: Aussie Horizons vs. Northwest (6 p.m.) Dec. 19: Grimsley vs. Northwest (6 p.m.)

Photo courtesy of Andy Gore

Northwest center Mikayla Harley denies a Western player. Harley posted a doubledouble in the 72-28 victory over Western.

Northern boys varsity basketball (3-4, 2-0)

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DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

Forward Jack Emerick scored 21 points and center Josh Gibson had 12 points to help Northern to a 58-49 con-

ference win on Friday, Dec. 12. The Nighthawks have won two out of their last three games.

Northern girls varsity basketball (5-2, 2-0) Northern rolled to a 66-24 conference victory over Western Alamance on Friday, Dec. 12. Center Elissa Cunane recorded a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Guard Sydney Wilson added 13 points and guard Kelly Lomax scored 11 points.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

As we went to press, Northern was scheduled to face Eastern Alamance on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at Eastern Alamance.

UP NEXT:

Dec. 17 | Rockingham at Northern (Girls play at 6 p.m., boys at 7:30 p.m.) Dec. 19 | Northern at Eastern Guilford (Girls play at 6 p.m., boys at 7:30 p.m.)

Of Christmas bells,

and peace on earth, good

by HELEN LEDFORD Words to the familiar carol “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” were penned by William Wadsworth Longfellow on Dec. 25, 1864. The famous poet was mourning the death of his wife, Fannie, who had been tragically burned. Cannons were rumbling as the war between the North and the South was raging – a division in our nation that further troubled Longfellow. A portion of the poem, later set to music, was dark and foreboding: “And in despair, I bowed my head, there is no peace on earth, I said.” Adding further to his grief, the author’s beloved son joined the army and was gravely wounded. Sharing his sad lyrics at a usually festive time of year, Longfellow likely echoed others’ sentiments as Christmas arrived during a most dismal era of our nation’s history. The wind can be knocked out of us when grave illness or death interrupts our celebratory mood. And when that devas-

tating, emotional thud hits the heart, it cuts exceptionally deep near holidays. As Dec. 25 approaches, I admit that my mind travels back to other Christmas times when it was extremely hard to be “merry.” There was a particular year when a cherished sister fell ill at Thanksgiving, and a simple surgical procedure turned out not as planned. The city was Washington, D.C., and its frigid streets were already decked out in gaudy, tinselly décor and jolly, Yuletidethemed shop windows. Before my sister was wheeled into the operating room, I combed her hair. We laughed about old times and plans we had for when she was well. The last thing she said to me was, “Will you take me home for Christmas?” I gave her a big hug, and assured her that we would indeed spend Christmas with the family in the house where we were born. Then the unexpected happened, and for almost a month thereafter we watched her breathe with the help of life support while we returned home only long enough to get changes of clothes before rushing back to her bedside. And yes, she was taken home for Christmas. We covered her casket with red poinsettias and fresh, aromatic greenery from our largest homeplace cedar tree. Snippets of the indelible memory from that December still enter into my brain when good tidings should be the norm, and sorrow still lingers for a dear sibling way too young to leave this earth. One remaining sister took her final journey just before Christmas a couple of years ago. It was very near the holidays when my husband passed away, and long before

that, one poignant November, a tiny son who lived only hours after birth. So with great empathy, I think now, at this particular time, of others bogged down with heaviness, keeping vigil beside the beds of loved ones in hospitals or under Hospice care while lighted trees shine behind windows, streets fill with rushing shoppers and “Ho! Ho! Ho!” of department store Santas and other sights and sounds of Christmas abound. Many are far removed from the holiday din and hilarity, facing family tragedy, a dismal doctor’s report, or perhaps, the heartbreaking task of planning for a funeral. For these, chiming Christmas bells ring dull and hollow. A heartwarming ‘70s TV movie, “The Gathering,” starred veteran actor Ed Asner portraying Adam Thornton, a successful but ill-tempered businessman who walked out on his wife and four kids years earlier. Estranged from his family and grappling with the reality of a terminal illness, Thornton reconciled with his wife (played by Maureen Stapleton) and together they arranged to unite the family for one last Christmas together. In one of the closing scenes, with children, grandchildren and a beloved “prodigal” son in attendance, whom he had

will to men

not seen for many years, Asner (as Thornton) proposed a toast. With emotional and halting voice he said, “Let us drink to what we had,” but then changed the words to say, “Let us drink to what we have …” As we face Christmas 2014, our lives may not be perfect and the holidays may not be filled with the warm, fuzzy celebrations we remember. We may be faced with the leaden burden of grief or catastrophic happenings. They often come as a bolt out of the blue, overshadowing any feelings of good cheer the season seems to demand. Longfellow lived in a nation turbulent and divided, as do we now. But like the fictional movie character Adam Thornton, we can relish the precious moments at hand, and take joy in what we have. Longfellow’s hand moved almost two centuries ago to preserve for the ages words that still stir the hearts of men. His beautiful carol is both somber and filled with hope. A particularly inspiring verse reads thus: “Then pealed the bells more loud and deep, God is not dead, nor doth He sleep – The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, with peace on earth, good will to men.” Merry Christmas!

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DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

Stokesdale Holiday Parade Saturday, Dec. 13 With sunny skies and temperatures in the high 50s, it was a perfect day for a parade.

Find many more pho of this event at tos

Photos by Patti Stokes/NWO

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DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

The Northwest Observer â€˘ Totally local since 1996

NWHS students adopt Mary’s House families for Christmas by L.A. LOGAN NORTHWEST GUILFORD – Paul Egleston’s leadership class at Northwest Guilford High School knows first-hand that it is sometimes the simplest things in life which mean the most. As it has for the last several years, the school’s leadership class recently reached out to offer their support to residents of Mary’s House, a Greensboro-based ministry that provides transitional housing to women in recovery from substance abuse and their minor children. Students in the class, who worked in pairs, were assigned a Mary’s House family and then raised money to purchase Christmas gifts for their family. “Most clubs around the school will donate to one family,” said senior John Drawbaugh, the Northwest’s student body vice president. “What makes leadership class special is one friend of mine and I have a whole family.” “I never think about where my next meal is coming from,” said senior Liz Cude. “It’s more like what is my next meal? Adopting a family for Christmas is very humbling.” Coach Paul Egleston took over the leadership class after returning from Iraq in 2007 and rejoining the Northwest High School staff.

Photo by L.A. Logan

NWHS’s leadership class, front row: Liz Cude, Brigette Thomas, Josh Hedrick, Mallory Peterson and Concetta Errichiello; second row: Molly Morgan, Grace Simaan, Morgan Stokely, Reid Anderson, Elizabeth Fleming, Breanna Wilton, Alicia Andrews, Erin Morton, Casey Elias, Shelby Spalding and Hope Bercaw; third row: Hannah Kassahun, Dillon Fox, John Drawbaugh, Josh Dasnoit, Kate Mabe, Hunter Newman, Satoria Ray, Zach Young and Christian Cagle; and back row: Mark Garner, Tony Hammond and Patrick Phillips. Not shown: Shelby Barrow, Kayla Frye, Hannah Kaufmann, Blake Leggett, Will Matherly, Katie Morgan, Robert Rowell and Nicole Wellinsky.

“Coach E is a great teacher,” said senior Shelby Barrow. “He helps you realize what you are going to need in a real-life situation because he’s been through so much in Afghanistan and Iraq.”

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Donations for the class’s most anticipated event of the year have steadily increased over the years.

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“When the program started, it served about 20 families,” said Egleston. “The students raised $200-$250 per family, which was a big deal for them.” Last year, contributions reached close to $17,000 and averaged about $500-$600 for each family. “The families have gotten to the point now where their Christmas lists are very detailed,” said Egleston. “We tell them, ‘Do not hesitate to ask for the sky … You never know.’” Leadership class president Mallory

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DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

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Peterson, a senior, said leadership students solicited donations from other students and faculty during fourth period outside the cafeteria, but it was up to the students to get the rest of the contributions they needed on their own. “I have the biggest family in the class; it’s a mother, a 1-year-old boy, 8-year-old boy, an 11-year-old girl and a 15-year-old boy,” said Peterson. “I found success by asking people who I didn’t even know.” About three years ago, Egleston suggested that participating students and the families they were supporting meet in the school’s media center as a group (versus meeting individually) to distribute the gifts. “We had Santa,” he said, “and Mr. Kitley (Northwest’s principal) cried. From that moment, that is what we

continued to do.” This holiday season, 28 families from Mary’s House were adopted. Although the leadership class could only adopt 18 of those families, other classes and clubs at Northwest offered to adopt a family, including the student council, HOPE Club, We The People class, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the chorus, National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, Yearbook and Mrs. Hudson’s classes. All of the student participants agreed the families’ reactions to the outpouring of support have been very touching. “After last year’s dinner, I cried because I stress over things so little compared to what those kids have to deal with every day,” said Cude. “I gave them a stocking full of body wash, tooth brushes and toothpaste.

“One girl got so excited over getting something so simple.” Senior Reid Anderson said helping others has opened his and his fellow classmates’ eyes to how they take small things for granted. “It’s cool when we’re the same age as them,” said Anderson. “You get a grasp of how fortunate you are. I’ve never cried when I’ve gotten a present, I just felt it was ‘normal’ to get one.” “It’s an eye opener,” agreed Peterson. “My (adopted) family is asking for belts, socks and underwear. “I don’t even think twice when I put my socks on in the morning.” Members of the leadership class and other classes and organizations who adopted Mary’s House families for Christmas distributed gifts to their adopted families at this year’s Christmas gathering on Wednesday, Dec. 17.

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DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Just a s few da!y left

Wanted: volunteer ﬁreﬁghters by PATTI STOKES

about family.”

Northwest-area fire departments typically respond to structural fires, woods fires, hazardous material incidents, confined space rescues, auto accidents, water rescues and medical emergencies.

George Baer moved to the Summerfield area several years ago. Though he had no family members who were volunteer firefighters, he was drawn to the department after walking by it at Founders Day.

In addition to paid staff members, local fire departments in Oak Ridge, Stokesdale, Summerfield and Colfax depend on volunteers to help respond to the emergency needs of an increasingly growing population. However, as the communities and their emergency needs increase, the number of volunteers has diminished at an alarming rate. Michael Page’s grandfather and father were both volunteer firefighters in Summerfield, and when Page turned 16, he also began volunteering with the fire department. “From the time I can remember, my dad would leave for calls,” Page said. “He would take me with him when he could. I would do things at the department like help him stir the stew.” Now a full-time paid fireman in Greensboro, Page continues to volunteer in Summerfield. “I just enjoy it – when I was growing up and they dispatched calls, they would say the name of the house you were going to. Everyone knew everyone back then, so you wanted to go and help them. “Our chief is one of the best chiefs in the entire county,” said Page. “He is good at managing people and making it fun. I try to make sure if the paid guys go on a medical call, that as a volunteer, I’m there at the department to take up the slack – a lot of times there is more than one call coming in at the same time. Training is involved, Page admits. And it takes time away from family. To combat that, he says Summerfield’s Chief Chris Johnson works hard to make the department family-friendly. “I can go up there with my daughter and wife – he has family things going on throughout the year. When I think about Summerfield Fire Department, I think

“I thought it would be a neat thing to do (to volunteer). One year I got the application and put it in my desk. I didn’t fill it out, though. The next year I did the same thing, but I did fill it out and it went from there.” Baer’s motive for volunteering came from a sense of wanting to contribute to his community. And, he admits it fulfills his sense of adventure. “Since I’ve become involved, I’ve become connected to the fellow firefighters and they are true professionals,” Baer said. “I’ve learned an enormous amount and it’s very technical. It’s not just running around and driving a truck and running into a building.”

ATHLETIC PARK ...continued from p. 1 When beginning work on the annual budget last February, the town’s finance committee decided to re-assess SRA’s discounted fees to bring them in line with what other organizations pay to use the athletic park. Before finalizing the town’s 2014/2015 fiscal year budget, SRA was told it would be charged the non-resident rate for using the facilities because fewer than 60 percent of its players were Summerfield residents. SRA and players’ families objected to the increase while initially, the town stood firm. As a result, SRA teams did not use Summerfield Athletic Park fields for the fall baseball season. The compromise that was recently reached has SRA paying $20/hour per field as well as $10/hour for lights. In addition, SRA will only use the athletic park field for games, while continuing to

use the fields at Summerfield Elementary and Northern Middle for practice. SRA will also be allowed to use their contracted maintenance company, Let’s Talk Lawns, to prep the fields for $15 per occurrence and handle payment from within their organization rather than paying Summerfield the standard $25 field prep fee. Wesoly said the compromise means his organization will not have to raise fees for players in the spring. “I felt it was a reasonable and fair fee, and obviously the town agreed,” he said. Goard is equally satisfied with the end of the impasse. “The town is very excited to have SRA back using the facility for the spring season,” said Goard. “This is a win for both sides, and we look forward to continuing a relationship with SRA and growing it stronger in the months ahead.”

Though Baer stays busy with a fulltime job in Kernersville that entails traveling, and three teenagers, he says he has still found it possible to contribute to the fire department and his community. “You can have a balance and be a full-fledged firefighter and contribute. Volunteers are needed – if a real large issue occurs, volunteers are absolutely needed and wanted.”

WANT TO VOLUNTEER? Applications for volunteer firefighter membership can be found online at www.guilfordfireandrescue.com. Guilford Tech offers a Firefighter I and II training program that meets two nights a week and some Saturdays. In 2015, the program will be held in the northwest part of the county, which local fire departments hope will attract more people in the northwest area who are willing to serve their community by becoming a trained firefighter volunteer. Contact your local fire department for more info.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

of Kernersville and  Daniel Gingerich their Summer ﬁeld took Diane Gingerich of miles 0 00 6, an th ver more Nor thwest Obser up on where they caught to the Holy Land, ing the ok lo er ov e e at a sit the news from hom side the e Temple Mount in Western Wall of th lem in Israel. Old City of Jerusa

 Boy Scout Troop 139 , chartered by Oak Ridge United Methodist Church, enjoy ed reading the Northwest Observer during a recent adventure trip to the Grand Canyon. Boy Sco ut Troop 139 is par t of the Old No rth State Council.

 Herman and Linda East of Stokesdale read their copy of the Nor thwest Observer while celebrating their 49th wedding anniversary at Adare Manor in Adare, Ireland.

 Ron So utha of the NW rd took his copy O with h im recent cr uise to Be on a rmuda. In the bac k Clocktow ground is the er Mall, lo cated in the city o f Hamilto n.

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

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Your best friend deserves the best care KPS Kelly’s Pet Services PROFESSIONAL IN-HOME PET SITTING

Call to schedule a free consultation (336) 706-6706

www.petsit.com/kps

/kpspets

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

Premium Florida Citrus • No shipping fees

Seedless navel oranges • Red grapefruit • Tangerines

Honeybells next month! Summerfield Kernersville Sat., Dec. 27 • 9 am -12 noon Golden Antiques & Treasures 4537 US 220 N. (Battleground)

( 772 ) 473-1734

Sat., Dec. 27 • 1- 3 pm Warehouse Mall 305 E. Bodenhamer St.

www.citrusunlimited.com

mark your

calendar

SUNDAY, DEC. 21  Live Nativity | Summerfield Methodist Church, 2334 Scalesville Road, invites you and your furry friends to a live nativity on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2-4 p.m. More info: Beth, (336) 643-5126, or office@summerfieldumc.com.

 Community Christmas Celebration | All are invited to the Community Christmas Celebration at The Grove Church, 4530 Jessup Grove Road, Sunday, Dec. 21, for horseback rides, kids crafts, refreshments and music from 3-5 p.m. and a walk-up live nativity from 5-6 p.m. More info: (336) 549-8129 or cmccarthysojourn@gmail.com. WEDNESDAY, DEC. 24  Christmas Eve Services | Oak Ridge United Methodist Church, 2424 Oak Ridge Road, will hold Christmas Eve services at 4, 7 and 9:30 p.m. on Dec. 24. More info: See display ad on page 13.

 Candlelight Service | The Grove Church, 4530 Jessup Grove Road, will host a Christmas Eve candlelight service on Dec. 24, 5:30-6:30 p.m. More info: (336) 549-8129 or cmccarthysojourn@gmail.com.

New clients receive 15% off first exam Offer expires 1/31/2015. Call to schedule today! Dr. Julie Dudak 1726 Oak Ridge Road (336) 644-8789 Mon-Fri 7:30 am - 5:30 pm Every 2nd & 4th Sat 8 am -1pm

oakridgevillagevet.com | follow us on

Carlotta Lytton

, CPA, PC

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

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

 Christmas Eve Services | Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, 2614 Oak Ridge Road, will hold services at 4 and 7 p.m. on Dec. 24. More info: See display ad on page 3.

Northwest

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

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

 Christmas Eve Service | Summerfield United Methodist Church, 2334 Scalesville Road, will have a communion and candlelight worship service on Dec. 24, 6-7 p.m. More info: (336) 643-5126 or office@summerfieldumc.com.  Christmas Celebration | Summerfield Community Lutheran Church, 4960 US 220 North, will hold a Christmas Eve service on Dec. 24, 10-11:30 p.m. More info: (336) 643-7667 or bsronce@hickoryprinting.com.

 Christmas Eve Service | Summerfield’s First Baptist Church, 2300 Scalesville Road in Summerfield, will hold a Christmas Eve service on Dec. 24, 5-6 p.m. More info: www.summerfieldfbc.com.

Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC 27 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

TUESDAY, JAN. 6  Parents Meeting | Cornerstone Charter Academy-CFA will host a prospective parent meeting night on Jan. 6 at 6 p.m. in the school’s auditorium. Interested families will be able to hear from the school’s director, Brent Smith, and members of the board and staff; the meeting will end with a tour of the school. Applications for the 2015-2016 school year will be available at the meeting and online at www.cornerstone.teamcfa.org. Submit applications no later than 4 p.m. on Feb. 13 to be included in our lottery.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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

Spoil-Me-Rotten ANIMAL CARE, INC.

(336) 643-5242 Nancy Brooks, PSI Member

submit your  events online at nwobserver.com

Your event will appear on our online community calendar and be considered for print publishing Visit our homepage and click “community calendar”

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

Lose a pound a day the easy weigh!

48 pounds, 26 inches, and 9% body ‘‘fat.I lost I went from a size 16 down to a 10.

I had tried everything else. This was easy and it works!” –Wendy L. of Oak Ridge

CRIME / INCIDENT report

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

Alpha Weight Loss @ Alpha Health Center

Dr. Jeff W. Lissenden, DC 3132-A Battleground Ave. Greensboro

(336) 545-7970

$19 INITIAL VISIT

Reg. $47 • Limit first 10 callers

Dec. 11 | Two residents of Strawberry Road in Summerfield were charged with Affray following a family dispute. (According to freedictionary.com, affray is “A criminal offense generally defined as the fighting of two or more persons in a public place that disturbs others.”)

ASSAULT Dec. 9 | A resident of Bayfield Lane in northern Greensboro reported being assaulted during a domestic dispute, but declined to pursue charges. Dec. 13 | A resident of Beeson Road in Oak Ridge reported that a known person assaulted him by scratching the back of his neck. Charges are pending.

Thanks

to our community for allowing us to serve you!

Ana & Dr. David Lorczak

Daughter Cecilia

& son Nathanael

Since 2008

8004 Linville Rd, Suite B, Oak Ridge | (336) 644-8078 | www.orchiro.com Located in the Oak Ridge Business Center, Linville Road & N.C. 68

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

Dec. 14 | A resident of Pawnee Road in northwest Greensboro was arrested and charged with Simple Assault, Assault on a Female, Assault by Strangulation and Interfering with 911 Communication. The incident was the result of a family dispute.

BREAKING & ENTERING Dec. 9 | A resident of Oak Arbor Road reported an unknown suspect pried open a door to a storage shed and stole tools and power equipment valued at $3,199. Dec. 12 | A resident of Belews Creek Road in Stokesdale observed a white male breaking into her neighbor’s house across the street. The resident said she followed the man in her vehicle down U.S. 158 toward Forsyth County until she lost sight of him, then called 911 to report the incident. The neighbor later confirmed her home had been entered through a rear door; several items were stolen, including a laptop computer, television, jewelry box and social security card. Dec. 13 | A resident of Cornelius, North Carolina, reported that after leaving his locked vehicle parked on U.S. 158 while he watched the Stokesdale Holiday Parade, someone removed a .38 revolver from his vehicle. There was no sign of forced entry and the victim later said he was not completely sure the revolver was

taken while he was in Stokesdale. Dec. 13 | A resident of Crosscreek Road in Kernersville reported that an unknown suspect broke into an outbuilding on the victim’s property and removed tools and a deer stand valued at $900.

DRUGS Dec. 11 | A 17-year-old Northwest High School student was charged with Misdemeanor Possession of Marijuana after a probable cause search of his vehicle, which was parked at the school, revealed a small amount of the controlled substance.

FRAUD

Dec. 9 | A resident of Strader Road in Summerfield reported that an unknown person used the victim’s debit card information to make unauthorized purchases in eastern North Carolina totaling $475.33. Dec. 10 | A resident of Alcorn Road in northwest Greensboro reported an unknown person used the victim’s debit card information for unauthorized purchases totaling $316.41 in Concord, North Carolina. Dec. 11 | A resident of U.S. 158 in Kernersville reported that a known suspect used the victim’s personal information to open fraudulent credit card accounts and purchase merchandise valued at $1,045.33. Dec. 13 | A resident of Millstaff Drive in Oak Ridge reported that an unknown suspect used her credit card information to make purchases at Greensboro businesses. The woman had previously lost her wallet, which contained several credit cards.

THEFT

Dec. 8 | A cadet at Oak Ridge Military Academy reported that known suspects stole a ring that was valued at $450.

Don't wait to protect your home & family Bad things sometimes happen to good people. We're here to prevent those things.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

AFFINITY INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS

302-M Pomona Drive, Greensboro (336) 441-1121 | www.myaislife.com

Find specials and updates on our Facebook page

May your Christmas be filled with

Forbis& Dick Funeral Homes Stokesdale 8320 Hwy 158, (336) 643-3711 Greensboro 1118 N Elm St, (336) 275-8408 5926 W Friendly Ave, (336) 299-9171

facebook.com / StokesdaleBiRite

Located at 8632 Hwy 158, Stokesdale • www.stokesdalebirite.com

Locally owned & operated • Serving Stokesdale, Greensboro, Oak Ridge & Summerfield

We Help

Everyone

SELLERS & BUYERS

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www.ANewDawnRealty.com

gems in

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Stokesdale

Dedicated to improving downtown Stokesdale Visit us online at

www.roads-stokesdalenc.org

Full-service • Grooming & boarding Horse farm calls • Dental care Flea & tick prevention & meds

Individual & Small Business Bookkeeping & Payroll Individual & Corporate Tax Returns PO Box 469 • 8400 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale

(336) 644.2741 • kim.thacker@att.net

Dr. Robert N. Oglesby 8208 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale • (336) 643-8515

www.stokesdaleveterinaryhospital.com

Certified Vet

Over 6,000 people

are now connected to their neighbors and their community at facebook.com/NorthwestObserver If you haven’t already, won’t you join us? “Thank you so much for reporting on this. I’ve been looking on local news sites and found nothing about why my power was out and how far spread the impact was made.”

“Duke power is still working hard to get things back on.”

“Our power came back on at 9pm. Thank goodness.”

Congratulations to our state champs!!!

“Thanks to everyone who worked hard to make this parade happen and to all those who were in the parade!”

Get. Be. Stay Connected

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

e-mail: editor@nwobserver.com

PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310

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

Communication requires community Figuring out how Facepole being broken could create book could be an asset to our so many outages. business took me a long time And just today, someone to “get.” Initially, I viewed the sent us a message via Facesocial media site as just one book asking what was going more thing for me to keep up on at Lake Higgins on U.S. with. And it is – but it’s also Patti Stokes 220 with all the deputies and proven to be an invaluable publisher/editor rescue squad. Thanks to Lt. way to both share and receive Sibert of the District 1 sheriff’s office information almost instantaneously for responding promptly, once again with thousands of people in northwest within moments, thousands of people Guilford County, and to have direct were in the loop (and had their curiosity dialogue with community members on satisfied). a regular basis, something I’ve missed As we wrap up our last issue of in the years since we published once 2014, I want to thank those of you who a month, covered one community and reach out to us throughout the year I ran the business part-time out of a to share story ideas, photos, news tips small home office. and suggestions, and to those who ask Soon after learning of what turned questions and respond to our quesout to be a widespread power outage tions, whether it be via our newspaper, in and surrounding Stokesdale a few in person or on Facebook. Also, thanks nights ago, I was able to reach Oak to those who promptly respond when Ridge Fire Chief Steve Simmons and we seek information about happenings find out the origin of the problem (a as they are happening. Communication vehicle hitting a power pole at a subcan’t happen without community, and station), and within moments after that we couldn’t do our job without you. I posted the information on Facebook. As is our tradition, our staff will take And thanks to all of you who had your a break over the weeks of Christmas cell phones and your tablets charged, and New Year’s, and the Northwest you in turn were able to ask questions Observer will be back in print on Jan. 9, and share your location, as well as 2015 – but in the meantime, we hope when your power went out and came you’ll stay connected with us at www. back on. Facebook.com/NorthwestObserver. When I spoke with a Duke Energy representative the following day, I was able to share on Facebook the explanation he gave me for why one power

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Merry Christmas, and in the coming new year, may your grins be much more plentiful than your gripes!

Security guards shouldn’t be required Can the Greensboro city government require business owners to hire armed off-duty police officers as security guards? Apparently so. I don’t think that local, state or national governments should have this power. Business owners should have the right to determine whether or not they hire security guards, and whether or not they are armed. Is it constitutional for a government to require someone in the private sector to hire a government employee? Do governments have the

BITS & PIECES

power to require business owners to use security cameras? If they do, then does that mean that they can require individual home owners to put up security cameras as well? I don’t want ‘’Big Brotherism’’ in the public or private sectors. If business owners are required to hire off-duty police officers, then there should be an ordinance that requires these security guards to wear body cameras. Chuck Mann, GREENSBORO

...continued from p. 12

Northern students receive national recognition in writing No Kid Hungry and WeAreTeachers received an overwhelming response when they challenged students to speak out against childhood hunger. Teens nationwide submitted artwork, stories and essays, photography and songs. Students in Alicia Mooney-Flynt’s creative writing class at Northern Guilford High School were required to enter their work into the contest. The selection committee, composed of teachers and staff members from No Kid Hungry and

WeAreTeachers, chose the winners. Two Northern students were selected winners of this competition. Junior Isaac Hess was named the Grand Prize winner and junior Tom Wulf was named runner-up. Isaac’s work, titled “Granola Bar,” earned him a $500 scholarship with $200 donated to Northern High School, and Tom’s work, “Something Is Missing” earned him a $100 scholarship with $100 donated to the school.

Wishing everyone a very

Merry Christmas Thank you for a great first year in business! In addition to our new firearms, ammunition and accessories, we buy, sell, trade and do consignment sales.

Some of the brands we carry:  Ruger  Remington  Smith & Wesson  Henry  Kel-Tec  Weatherby  Colt  Browning  CZ  FN Herstal  Walther  Glock  Heckler & Koch  Kahr  Sig Sauer  Vortex Optics  Petzl Lights

We are now a Class III NFA dealer for all your suppressor needs

Covington receives scholarship Northwest Guilford’s Sam Covington was recently one of five high school students to be awarded the Bill Lee Scholarship. According to the WFMY News 2 website, the Bill Lee Scholarship is awarded to four HAECO Invitational participants each year. However, in 2014, there was a tie between two candidates so tournament officials made a one-time decision to award five $2,000 scholarships. Sam is a senior at Northwest Guilford High School. He is a two-year varsity basketball player and has also participated

in student government, the German Club and Young Life. He is in the National Honor Society, the National German Honor Society, the National Society of High School Scholars and has received the United States Marine Corps League Good Citizenship Award. Sam is an Eagle Scout who also performs community service with several organizations. He hopes to attend NC State University, UNC-Chapel Hill or UNC-Wilmington and is considering a career in textile management or business.

6716 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale (336) 644 -5489 mark@atlantic-outdoors.com /AtlanticOutdoorsNC

www.atlanticarms.enstore.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

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

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

GRINS to...  Gilleys Small Engine Repair. I called in the morning for repairs on my riding mower, push mower and edger. Gilleys picked up and returned the same day. Great price.

Yard equipment is purring and ready for spring. Support local businesses.  Bistro 150. We went back after not having been there in a while and it was amazing. Great staff, and dinner was excellent. You all made us feel welcomed – we have a new favorite place for date night!  The kind gentleman who helped carry my box to the Mailboxes & More store. It was such a sincere and amazing act of kindness. Glad to know chivalry still exists. God bless him!  Mary Jordahl for creating the new Facebook group “Made By Hands In The Triad.” This group showcases our local craftsmen and allows all to buy local! Three cheers for you, Mary!  Northern Guilford’s No. 5 football player (Cam Harris). Such a classy example of sportsmanship you displayed at the end of the state championship

Helen Jean Stories a book written and illustrated by

Helen Ledford

game. You have no idea how much your act of consoling players from the other team meant to those watching.

are difficult to see, especially as the sun sets. Yes, you have the right, but is it worth the risk?

 Barry Wesoly, president of Summerfield Recreation Association, and Jeff Goard, Summerfield’s parks and recreation manager, for working out a field use agreement. SRA baseball and softball teams will be playing games at Summerfield Athletic Park in spring of 2015!

 Duke Energy for letting 5,500 people sit in the dark for 13 hours after one telephone pole was hit by a car.

 Tom Malone of TM Construction Services for delivering beautiful construction projects on schedule and on budget. We are so happy! Thank you, Tom and team, for also being so professional and considerate.

GRIPES to...  Attorney General Eric Holder. He should partner with the Dept. of Education and require all students in grades 1-12 to have a class on respect for law enforcement. The people throwing rocks and bottles, burning and looting acted like wild dogs.  Those who think someone can take away your Christmas. Christmas is in your heart. No amount of advertisements or bell ringers can add or take away from that.  Bicyclists who ride our narrow country roads late in the day during EST. You

A nostalgic look into slower times well remembered.

Available at

2204 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge across from Oak Ridge Commons

Or, purchase online at lulu.com (type “Helen Jean Stories” in the search bar)

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Editor’s Note: Duke Energy estimates the number of people who lost power as a result of a vehicle hitting a power pole on N.C. 150, just inside the Town of Summerfield limits, on the evening of Dec. 15 was closer to 4,500 at its peak; power was restored to approximately 1,000 of those customers within about two hours, and to a few thousand more customers throughout the night. The remaining customers had their power restored by about 8 a.m. on Dec. 16. In fairness, the pole that was hit was not a telephone pole, as the Griper has written, or even a “regular” wooden power pole; rather, it was a pole with double circuits which, unfortunately, was located at the power substation off Eversfield and Everson Roads. Because the pole was broken upon impact, it had to be completely replaced, and its double circuits, which feed power to the wooden poles with transformers – and ultimately feed power to customers – made the repair both more complex and more dangerous for Duke Energy employees, who worked through the night to replace it and to restore power to customers.

(336) 272-4400 Locally Owned and Operated Loca for 30 years Full Service vice Pe Pest Management Mosquito M Management Bed Bug Treatments Moisture Control Termite Protection www.pestmgt.com Wildlife Management

 CHRISTMAS SERVICES

 SAVE THE DATE

 HOME SERVICES

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS at Community Lutheran Church. Everyone is welcome! Christmas Eve Service, Wednesday evening, Dec. 24, 10pm. Christmas Service of Lessons and Carols, Sunday morning, Dec. 28, 10am. 4960 US 220 North, Summerﬁeld. 643-7667. Please join us!

PICTURES WITH SANTA, pets welcome! Sat., December 20, 10am-6pm; Sunday, December 21, 10am-4pm, Tractor Supply in Oak Ridge. Packages start at $30. Visit facebook.com/portraitsbyHeatherKellam for more info or call/text (336) 669-8569.

CARPET CLEANING Residential & commercial. Call now for holiday specials! Lic./insured. 643-5344 or 337-4253.

Place online at

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

OAK RIDGE UNITED METHODIST Christmas Eve Services; Family worship at 4pm in the Family Life Center; Contemporary worship at 7pm, Family Life Center; Traditional Worship, 9:30pm in the sanctuary. Come worship with us! See display ad on page 13 for more info. CENTRAL BAPTIST Christmas Family Communion Services, Wed., Dec. 24, 6:30 and 7pm, 1715 NC Hwy. 68N, Oak Ridge. (336) 643-7684 or www.oakridgecbc.org.

Merry Christmas from all of us here at The Northwest Observer!

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

 EMPLOYMENT FULL-TIME RECEPTIONIST NEEDED Veterinary experience preferred. Veterinary Hospital of Oak Ridge. Fax resume to (336) 644-8747 or email frontdesk@ oakridgevillagevet.com.

 SAVE THE DATE 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, 6-9pm, weather permitting, through Dec. 20. PICTURES WITH SANTA, Sat., Dec. 20, 10am-2pm; Sunday, Dec. 21, 12n-3pm. Two 4x6 color prints, $15. Golden Antiques, 4537 Highway 220N, Summerﬁeld.

CITRUS UNLIMITED will be at Golden Antiques, Saturday, Dec. 27, 9am-12n, 4537 Hwy. 220N, Summerﬁeld. Fresh varieties straight from Florida!

Something

going on

Tell northwest Guilford County Place your Save the Date online at

PROFESSIONAL HOME CLEANING Affordable prices, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or seasonal. Free est., satisfaction guaranteed. Call Elizabeth, (336) 453-8592.

DECORATING GOT A SPACE PLANNING CHALLENGE? At a loss with your decorating project? Confused and indecisive? We give you fresh, exciting, valuable decorating ideas and expert design tips. Mention this ad and get $50 off an In-Home Design Consultation. www.IDSbyMaria.com (336) 944-2750.

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

 YARD SALE MOVING SALE, Sat., Dec. 20, 8am-12n, 4906 Robdot Drive, Oak Ridge (off Stafford Mill). Ofﬁce & patio furniture, bedroom & patio sets, table & chairs, grill, kids’ & household items.

 HOME SERVICES

OLD SCHOOL

HOME REPAIR, LLC

Home Improvement & Repairs Lisa & Jerry Potkay, Oak Ridge Bathroom Remodeling | Additions | Decks

CLEANING

(336) 669-7252

CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING, gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. www.windowcleaningnc.com. 595-2873. ANA’S HOUSECLEANING. Good references, free est., 25 years exp. 309-0747. MARIA’S CLEANING SERVICE. Free estimates, guaranteed service. 937-5231. CastleWorks WINDOW CLEANING Includes gutters, pressure washing, chandeliers and other high ladder work. Fully insured and bonded, free estimates. 609-0677. www. castleworkswindowcleaning.com.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

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

Professional, Honest, Reliable

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES at Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, Wednesday, December 24; Family-friendly service, 4pm; Communion & Candlelight service, 7pm. 2614 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge, (336) 643-3452. All are invited to worship!

FREE PICK-UP of unwanted mowers, computers, AC’s, appliances, grills, gas, electrical, metal items, bikes, etc. 689-4167.

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

What’s going on around town? facebook.com/northwestobserver

...continued on p. 28

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

 HOME SERVICES

GRADING / HAULING

LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS 17-year anniversary special. We will beat your current written price by 15% – guaranteed! Call (336) 601-3796.

STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Lic/Ins. 30 yrs. exp. Bucket truck & chipper, total cleanup. Selective thinning & lot clearing. 24-hr. ER svc. OR, NC. 643-1119.

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

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

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

Come with us - we’re going anyway!

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

GUTTERS / WINDOWS / SIDING

CUSTOM REPLACEMENT

WINDOWS

A+

Locally owned since 1989 100% financing available

Custom Energy Services

(336) 314-1161 • 800-729-1955 www.triadwindowreplacement.com

BRAD’S BOBCAT. Snow removal! Mulching, landscaping, concrete work. 362-3647. ONE GUY & A MACHINE LAWN CARE and hardscaping. Maintenance, design, paver patios, block walls, hedges trimmed, beds re-edged, pine needles, mulch, pressure washing, chemical applications, aerating. Licensed & insured. Free est. Call 3824767. www.oneguyandamachine.com. GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maintenance. 655-6490. MULCH, single-ground, $10 per 3-yard scoop. Tandem load delivered, $100 (about 10 yards). Oak Ridge area, 803-2195.

GUTTER CLEANING & LEAF GUARDS. 5 and 6” seamless gutters. Free estimates. Call Gary the Gutter Guy. (336) 345-6518. www.a1copperrooﬁng.com. MAYS SIDING and window contractors, vinyl railings & siding, replacement windows, gutter cleaning and repair. Please call 215-8775 for a free estimate. VINYL SIDING REPAIRS Facia, siding & gutter repairs. Mays Siding, 215-8775, www.mayssiding.com.

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

Happy Birthday to us! Happy Birthday to us!! The Northwest Observer is proud to celebrate 18 years as your hometown newspaper. LET’S TALK! Leaf removal, mulch & pine needles, fall planting. James, (336) 543-4066.

ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call 382-9875. WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Complete lawn care & landscaping. NC lic. irrigation contractor. 20 years exp. Hardscaping, fertilization & weed control. 399-7764. CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, 643-9332. CarolinaStumpAndTreeService.com.

MASONRY

For advertising info, call Laura, (336) 644-7035, ext. 10.

PAINTING & DRYWALL PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 32 years exp. Sheetrock repair. No job too small. Insured. Call Brad Rogers, 314-3186. CINDY’S PAINTING. Interior painting, wallpaper removal. References & free estimates available. (336) 708-9155. ONE GUY AND A PAINT BRUSH Local, U.S. workforce, experienced. Free estimates. (336) 382-4767.

BEK Paint Co.

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

David & Judy Long, owners

MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS

Residential & Commercial

(336) 931-0600

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

STILL PERFECTION PAINTING Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, 462-3683 or stillperfectionpainting.com. PREMIER CONSTRUCTION ROOFING Interior sheetrock repair, rotten wood, all painting & carpentry needs. 545-3277.

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

PLUMBING

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

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

northwest Guilford County?

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

AREA STUMP DUMP. Yard waste, concrete, etc. Fill dirt available. 602-5820.

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

Want to reach 26,000 folks in

BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic/Ins. Call Mark for savings. 337-7924. GAS LOGS, WOOD STOVES & INSERTS, ﬁreplaces, sold, serviced and repaired. Call Don Hill, (336) 643-7183.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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

 HOME SERVICES

 MISC. SERVICES

WEBSTER & SONS PLUMBING, Inc. (336) 992-2503. Licensed, insured, bonded. 24/7 service. Plumbing, drain cleaning, well pumps. Give us a call, we do it all! Go to www.webstersplumbing.com for more info.

KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Specializing in room additions, garages, vinyl siding and windows, painting, ceramic tile, laminate, hardwood and linoleum ﬂoors, and remodeling of all kinds. No job too small. Free est. Call 644-1943 or cell 362-7469.

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.

JUNK REMOVAL. Appliances, batteries, mowers, electronics, trash, etc. 549-5726.

RED RHINO ROOFING, based in Oak Ridge, NC. Storm damage specialist experienced with all types of rooﬁng. BBB accredited A and listed with Angie’s List. Call 662-7980, or visit redrhinorooﬁng.com.

 MISC. FOR SALE

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

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

Construction Services, INC

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Outdoor living | Fire pits | Screened porches

644-8615 office 508-5242 cell Licensed & insured NC Gen. Contractor #72797

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

Tc. GicEes, In ARerv -Tction S OCoNnstru

POWER WASHING BY MAYS Specializing in vinyl homes. 215-8775.

ON-TARGET 30 yrs exp • Workmanship guarantee Insurance specialists

(336) 644-1580

FREE Estimates Insured & Dependable

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

RENOVATION WORKS INC. New construction, remodeling, kitchen and bath, additions, decks & patios. Call (336) 427-7391 or www.myrenovationworks.com. JLB REMODELING, INC. NC GC license #69997. Free estimates. Insured. Custom remodeling & additions. Call 681-2902 or www.jlbremodeling.com.

Want to reach our readers? Call 644-7035 for advertising info. BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens & baths, rotted wood, custom decks, garages, siding, windows, rooﬁng specials. Sr. discounts, 35 years exp. 362-6343. MOBILE WELDING SERVICE Residential, wrought-iron fence & gates, custom fabrication, stainless aluminium. Chuck, 362-8679, triadmobilewelding.com.

Decks • Screened porches Sunrooms • Pergolas Deck replacements FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION

(336) 664-1332

piedmont-triad.archadeck.com

The 7th annual NW FINDER Coming January, 2015. Make sure your business is included in the ONLY directory speciﬁcally for northwest Guilford County.

 MISC. SERVICES COMPUTER REPAIRS $99. Used computers, website design. Info at ITBASICS.COM – (336) 643-0068. Inside Mailboxes & More, Oak Ridge Commons. ROADSIDE AUTO – We come to your home or work! Parts and labor included; oil change $35; brakes $99; starters $149; alternators $165. Call (336) 681-1529.

Vacations by Jessica Making your dreams come to life!

Book local, travel international! Time to reserve your Spring Break trips. www.vacationsbyjessica.com (336) 473-3577 | jyoung4873@aol.com

ROOFING PREMIER ROOFING CONSTRUCTION Insurance specialist, free inspections, residential & commercial. 545-3277 anytime. 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.

NORTHWEST ART FRAMING Fine, affordable framing. “NWAF is my choice for framing” – Adele in Brown Summit. Steve Maloy, owner. Call for appt., (336) 644-1911. FREE PICK-UP of unwanted mowers, grills, appliances, bikes, AC’s, grills, electrical items, batteries, metal items, etc. 689-4167.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Your business should be here! Call 644-7035 for advertising information.

Brand new Bobcat X4 MOBILITY SCOOTER, $500. Call (336) 580-7707. SOLID OAK BUNK BED, ladder and rails included. $250. (239) 218-8839. OAK CRIB w/ mattress, great condition, very good quality. $100. 601-9171.

Got stuff? Sell it here in the

NWO classifieds submit your ad at

www.nwobserver.com PERSIMMON PULP, jam, pudding, and more! 816-3441 or 996-3892. WAREHOUSE MALL, INC Antiques, collectibles, vintage toys & tools. 305 E. Bodenhamer Drive, Kernersville. Hours: Mon-Sat., 10am-6pm, Sun., 1-6pm. FIREWOOD FOR SALE, $75/pickup load, delivered & stacked. (336) 253-7615. DEVALL’S CAJUN CUISINE, fried turkeys and Boston butts for Christmas. Call now, (336) 310-8717, 3932 W. Market St., GSO. ALL NEW MATTRESS SETS. Still in plastic, w/ warranty. Twin, $99; Full, $109; Queen, $129; King, $191. Can deliver, layaway available. Mattress Outlet. 992-0025. SEASONED FIREWOOD, $80/half cord, delivered and stacked. Call 686-6373.

...continued on p. 30

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

 MISC. WANTED

 REAL ESTATE

CASH for riding lawn mower needing repair or free removal if unwanted. Also free pickup of appliances, AC’s, grills, metal items, computers, gas & electrical items. 689-4167.

HOMES FOR SALE

 REAL ESTATE

CAROLINA MARINA, 214 Pelican Dr. Jet ski lift, boat slip, 40’ covered deck, park model, water front. $95,000. Ken, (336) 337-9268.

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

 PET / ANIMAL SERVICES

1504 North Grove Court

Ready for a new family member? Visit adoptshelterpets.org to see animals in need of a family at the Guilford County Animal Shelter.

BOARDING / PET SITTING OAK RIDGE PET SIT SERVICES “Keeping you and your pets on schedule.” Dana Sauber, pet & farm sitter (feeding, stall cleaning). 7 years exp., insured. 482-5785. SPOIL-ME-ROTTEN ANIMAL CARE Providing whatever YOU specify for your pets. Oak Ridge & Summerﬁeld since 1995. Professional, bonded, insured, and can give insulin shots and meds. Member of Pet Sitters International. We provide feeding, walking, and play, and we’ll also take care of the paper, mail, lights & alarms. Compassion! 1-3 trips per day, $15/trip (30 minutes). Call 643-5242.

7009 Mustang Court Builder’s personal custom home located on premier lot in Polo Farms. Screened porch overlooks large, level rear yard. Finished lower level perfect for in-law suite or teens. All bedrooms have adjoining baths. 3-car garage and neutral decor. Space for everyone, designed for easy living! Swim & tennis. $699,900

Looking for an Oak Ridge address? Hardto-find 3BR/2.1BA traditional home with huge bonus room. Situated on 2.17-acre level lot on private cul-de-sac in beautiful North Grove neighborhood. New roof and new carpet! Ready to move in. $282,000

Bobbie Gardner CRS/GRI/ EcoBroker Relocation Specialist

(336) 382-5939

Nancy J. Hess nancy.hess@bhhsyostandlittle.com (336) 215-1820

Place your classiﬁed ad online at www.nwobserver.com, or call Laura at 644-7035, ext. 10 for assistance.

FREE REIN STABLES, Summerﬁeld. Full board stall available. Please contact Eliot at (336) 508-0694.

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

 REAL ESTATE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY COMMERCIAL RENTAL AVAILABLE! $2,500/month for 4,200+ square feet. Highway 158, downtown Stokesdale. Great location for business – doctors, accountants, lawyers, realtors, ﬁnancial. Absolutely beautiful stand-alone building. (561) 254-4387.

Betty Moser-Callahan (336) 403-5545

6616 Stonecroft Drive, Oak Ridge Like-new home in exclusive Oak Ridge Lake community! Spacious, beautiful home on private homesite. Office on main level. Move-in ready! $415,000

700-sq.-ft. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACE, 8606 Ellisboro Road., Stokesdale. $650/mo. Available immediately. Formerly barber shop/gun shop. John Flynt, (336) 687-6019.

Tammy Gardner (336) 509-3303

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

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

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

We will not publish a December 26 or January 2 Northwest Observer so we can enjoy some extra time with our families over the holidays. We will resume with the January 9 issue. Happy Holidays!

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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

We’ll help you reach northwest Guilford County!

display advertiser index thanks to all the

Oak Ridge United Methodist Church ...13

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

FUNERAL SERVICES

A/C & HEATING

Alpha Weight Loss ...............................22 Mike Carr Karate – Training Zone .......12

Stokesdale Heating & Air.....................10 Velocity Air, Inc. ...................................17

ACCOUNTING

Carlotta Lytton, CPA, PA .....................21 Kimberly Thacker Accounting..............23 Samuel Anders, CPA, MSA, PC ...........21

CHIROPRACTIC

Forbis & Dick – Brooke Chapel ............23

MISCELLANEOUS

HEALTH & FITNESS

ROADS................................................23 Town of Stokesdale.............................. 11

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Affinity Integrated Solutions, Inc. .........22 Pest Management Systems..................26 ProStone, Inc. .....................................15

INSURANCE

Gladwell Insurance Agency....................3

Oak Ridge Chiropractic .......................22 Summerfield Family Chiropractic ...........7

LEGAL SERVICES

Attorney Bill Barbour ...........................19

CHURCHES

Central Baptist Church...........................5 Faith Baptist Tabernacle ......................10 Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church .............3

Eagle Physicians at Oak Ridge .............14 LeBauer Health Care .............................4

NEWSPAPER / PUBLISHING CO. The Northwest Observer........................9 The NWO on Facebook ......................24 The Northwest FINDER .......................31

PET SERVICES KPS – Kelly’s Pet Services ....................21 Northwest Animal Hospital ..................21 Spoil-Me-Rotten Animal Care, Inc. ......21 Stokesdale Veterinary Hospital.............23 Veterinary Hospital at Oak Ridge.........21 Ridge.........21 21 Westergaard Kennels...........................18 Kennels...........................18

REAL ESTATE A New Dawn Realty ............................23 Bobbie Gardner, Keller Williams...........30 Nancy Hess, Berkshire Hathaway ........30 Ramilya Siegel, Allen Tate ...................30

RETAIL Atlantic Outdoors ................................25 BiRite Food Center ......................... 2, 23 Citrus Unlimited...................................21 Dewey’s Holiday Store .........................18 Goodwill Industries ................................8 Helen Ledford – Helen Jean Stories .....26 Midtown Furniture ...............................32

RETIREMENT LIVING Spring Arbor ..........................................6

MEDICAL

Cone Health Emergency Care ............. 11 High Point Med Center ..........................5

7 th annual edition

Coming January 2015 Keep it handy. Use it often. It’s packed with valuable information for northwest Guilford County residents, and features a directory of local services, businesses and organizations.  Scan to view the FINDER from anywhere on your smartphone or tablet

ADVERTISE in the FINDER Direct-mailed to 11,000+

northwest homes

5,500 additional copies distributed for free pick-up

Online at nwobserver.com and shared with over 6,000 followers on Facebook (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 advertising@pscommunications-inc.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

DEC. 19, 2014 - JAN. 8, 2015

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Postal Patron

Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22

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

ECRWSS

YEARS INTEREST FREE FINANCING

PAYMENTS AS LOW AS WITH $2000 FINANCED!

PER MONTH

Power Rocker Recliner

499

3 Colors Available Compare at $1099

Wallsaver Recliner

199

10 Colors Available Compare at $499

MED- IFT

& Mobility Inc. Qualty Lift Chairs

Lift Recliner 10 Colors Available

299

399 Compare at $1099

449 Compare at $1099

Sofa or Loveseat TWIN

129

MATTRESS SET

FULL OR QUEEN PLUSH OR PILLOWTOP

299

KING

399

MATTRESS SET

499 Compare at $1099

Sofa or Loveseat QUEEN OR FULL

399

QUEEN OR FULL

499

MATTRESS SET

599

Sofa or Loveseat

Sofa or Loveseat Table & 4 Chairs

FULL OR QUEEN

299

499

MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS ONLY

WE OFFER THESE FINE LINES AND MANY MORE

Compare at $1099 Also available in: Oak, White & Oak or Black & Oak

FULL OR QUEEN

1499

MORE THAN 100 RECLINERS TO CHOOSE FROM!

Compare at $1599

Sofa or Loveseat

Compare at $1499

Also Available in Black Compare at $599

MATTRESS SET

2-SIDED QUEEN OR FULL

599

MATTRESS SET

599 Compare at $1199

599

Rocking Recliner

MATTRESS SET

Flipable!

WE OFFER ADJUSTABLE BASES

MORE THAN 30 MATTRESS SETS TO CHOOSE FROM

Queen Bedroom Suit King Bedroom Suit

2199 2499

$ $

FREE EXTENDED ND DED LAY LAYAWAY YAW AVAILABLE 7 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

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

SUPERSTORE Hwy. 220 Business across from Kmart 727 N. Highway Street, Madison, NC 27025

DELIVERY A ND DISPOSAL A VAILABLE

MIDTOWN FURNITURE

& MATTRESS CENTER

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

BUS 220

Eden Mayodan

SUPERSTORE

Call 427-5413

www.midtownfurniture.com

Martinsville

135

704

Midtown Furniture

Madison BYP 220

Reidsville

311

704

Winston-Salem Greensboro

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