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July 16 - 29, 2020

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Planning for municipal water system advances in Oak Ridge By a 4-1 vote, the Town Council authorized the town manager to negotiate a contract with Envirolink to operate a system, a step that Councilman Doug Nodine called ‘way premature’ due to a lack of information by CHRIS BURRITT OAK RIDGE – By a 4-1 vote during its meeting last Thursday, July 9, Oak Ridge Town Council authorized Town Manager Bill Bruce to negotiate a contract with Envirolink

Inc. to operate a proposed municipal water system for Oak Ridge. Councilman Doug Nodine voted against the move, saying support of the proposal is “way premature” because it lacks enough information to determine whether Oak Ridge could operate the system profitably without putting tax dollars at risk. “I’m certainly willing to take the next step and let staff begin the negotiations, with an understanding that when the contract does come, I’m going to need a clearer understanding of some of the questions,” council member Martha Pittman said. Pittman echoed the views of Mayor Ann Schneider, Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman

...continued on p. 23

Pandemic takeaways The COVID-19 outbreak disrupted summer plans for students as well as creating uncertainty about the upcoming school year. The following are some of the perspectives we gained from talking with Northwest Guilford High School students and their new principal, Ashley Young. We’ll share more students’ perspectives in our July 30 issue. (Earlier this week, Gov. Roy Cooper announced that schools statewide will reopen next month, requiring teachers, staff and students to wear face masks, while allowing families to opt for online instruction for their children. Based on state recommendations, Guilford County Schools is

planning for the new academic year.) Ashley Young, a 19-year educator starting her first year as NWHS principal: “The rising seniors are feeling a little anxious about what their last year is going to look like. There are wondering about academics, sports, band and other extracurricular activities. “I think kids are super resilient and flexible and a lot more fluid than a lot of times the adults are. They are just anxious to know what it’s going to look like. We will make it happen and do what we have to do.”

...continued on p. 22

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

Summerfield resident and Vietnam War veteran Terry Sharpe, 70, walks along U.S. 158 to Reidsville July 1 on the first day of his final walk to D.C., accompanied by Iraq War veteran Wayne Jenkins and his children, Ana, Amonie, Alan and Lance. Various people join Sharpe for segments of his journey as he walks about 10 to 14 miles per day, often in temperatures of 90 degrees and above. Sharpe’s trek to D.C. is expected to take about three and a half weeks. See story on p. 22 for details.

IN THIS ISSUE News in brief...........................2 Your Questions .......................4 Oak Ridge Town Council ....... 6

Pet Adoptions.......................14 NWO Kids’ Korner.................15 Obituary .............................. 20 Crime/Incident Report ....... 20

Stokesdale Town Council ....... 8

Grins and Gripes .................24

Pets & Critters ....................... 11

Letters/Opinions ..................26

Chesterbelle: One cool kitty .12

Classiﬁeds ............................27

Cat Trivia...............................13

Index of Advertisers ............31

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NEWS in brief

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STOKESDALE – Three Stokesdale Town Council members voted to disband the town’s Planning & Zoning Board during the council’s July 9 meeting; in an immediate follow-up, full-voting and alternate members were individually voted on. Former council member Frank Bruno, who has served the last several months as the P&Z board’s chairman, got “yes” votes from Mayor John Flynt and Mayor Pro Tem Thearon Hooks, but not from council members Derek Foy, Jim Rigsbee or Jimmy Landreth, so was not appointed to the newly assembled board. The morning after the meeting Bruno resigned as chair of the town’s Events Committee. “With no reasons given, they have removed me from the planning board while putting people on it who have not shown up for any of the meetings in the last six months. Seems to me this has nothing to do with qualifications...” Bruno wrote in an email to the town council. “... With that being said, since there has been no support from the council for our current or upcoming events, including the Farmers Market, I will be resigning my

position on the Events Committee effective immediately.” In subsequent communication with the Northwest Observer, Foy said he voted in favor of disbanding the P&Z Board and re-voting on members because three of the board’s five full voting members had not been voted on and appointed by the council. “Last night’s vote corrected that,” Foy said. Foy also referenced an email Bruno had sent to the town clerk in January, in which he said he could not serve on the board because of increased work commitments that he had just learned of. Despite that email, Bruno continued to serve as an alternate on the board and was later voted by his fellow members to a full voting role and to serve as the board’s chairman. Foy, Rigsbee and Landreth argued last month that alternates on the board cannot transition to full voting members without a vote of the town council; after researching the matter, Town Attorney Tom Medlin confirmed during the July 9 meeting that they were correct.

Fire department names Ken Gibson as new chief; vote was unanimous by CHRIS BURRITT

OAK RIDGE – Ken Gibson, a captain in the Oak Ridge Fire Department, will take charge as the department’s new chief July 27, ending an eight-month search for a replacement for Steve Simmons. The department’s board of directors voted unanimously July 14 to appoint Gibson from among 11 candidates, said Kyle Anders, a board member who served as interim chief following Simmons’ departure last November. Gibson, 56, takes responsibility for

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the department’s 15 full-time and eight volunteer firefighters. “I’m not a micromanager,” he said in an interview after his hiring. “As long as everyone is doing their job, that’s great. I’m easy to get along with. But I tell people not to mistake my kindness as weakness.” Anders said Gibson’s “ability” and “level-headed” approach to addressing issues qualified him for the job. Gibson served as a volunteer fireman in unincorporated Guilford County in the 1980s and 1990s. He moved to Oak

Ridge in 1999 and began volunteering in the town’s fire department in 2010. Two years later, he joined the department as a full-time fireman. The COVID-19 outbreak prevented the board from meeting to review applications and slowed the hiring of a new chief, Anders said in an interview in May. The lag in replacing Simmons allowed tension between the former chief’s supporters and detractors on the board and within the department to linger, creating the opportunity for Gibson to move past the discord.

“We have lost the family atmosphere around here for a while,” the new chief acknowledged. Recruiting volunteer firefighters is a priority, Gibson said. He also said the department is exploring the possibility of building a firetraining tower behind its main station at Linville and Scoggins roads. The structure, which would be located adjacent to the town-owned Whitaker property, would be used for training of Oak Ridge firefighters as well as volunteers with other area fire departments.

‘Bittersweet’ demolition of Saunders Inn preserves history

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Saunders Inn (above, left) on N.C. 150 in Summerfield was completed in 1820 and once served as a stopping point for travelers on the wagon road from Georgia to Pennsylvania. The historic inn was demolished earlier this month after members of Summerfield’s Historical Committee, aided by professionals in historic building restoration, concluded it was beyond repair.

Workers salvage artifacts from collapsing structure where famous writer William Sidney Porter’s grandfather taught the innkeeper’s children by CHRIS BURRITT SUMMERFIELD – Two centuries after workers built Saunders Inn from handhewn timbers and handmade bricks, the demolition of the historic, crumbling structure two weeks ago left behind an array of artifacts that will help preserve

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the inn’s history. A yellow excavator carefully dismantled the two-story inn on N.C. 150 and Deboe Road after crews had removed asbestos siding. Workers salvaged 11 pallets of chimney bricks, foundation stones, a staircase, timbers and interior and exterior boards and moldings. Hand-carved wooden dowels known as peg joints connect some of the timbers, preserving craftsmanship from around 1820 when the inn was built. “It was certainly bittersweet for the

...continued on p. 10

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your QUESTIONS www.nwobserver.com /northwestobserver @mynwobserver @northwestobserver

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The grass on the sides and medians of U.S. 220 in Summerfield recently got so high you couldn’t even see over it when turning onto the highway in certain areas. Not only was this an eyesore, but dangerous. I understand NCDOT is facing budget constraints, but why was the grass mowed in other areas of 220, such as in the Greensboro city limits, but not in Summerfield?

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Due to budget shortfalls that NCDOT was already facing, compounded with a significant loss of revenue from gas taxes and auto sales taxes related to COVID-19, NCDOT has implemented several cost-saving measures this year which include reducing its mowing cycle along state-maintained roadways and highway medians.

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JULY 16 - 29, 2020

“We have also eliminated such operations as our litter contracts, weed eating contracts, wildflower program, etc., and have also reduced the number of our consultants, contract inspectors and temporary employees by at least 50%,” Mills wrote in his email, noting that the department could face further cuts and/or elimination of programs in the future. In an update from the League of Municipalities Whitaker shared with council members in May, the League confirmed that NCDOT has experienced major funding shortfalls due to the COVID-19 crisis, which com-

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NCDOT division engineer Mike Mills emailed Summerfield Town Manager Scott Whitaker in May to inform him that DOT would not begin seasonal mowing operations until after June 1. Mills wrote that DOT will also only be mowing three cycles this year, rather than five to six cycles as it routinely does.

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pounded the financial constraints the agency was already facing. To offset the shortfalls, the agency has put a pause on most road projects and significantly cut back on all routine maintenance activities, including pavement patching, traffic signal maintenance, mowing and landscaping, sign repairs and storm repairs. The League advised municipal officials to consider the extent to which their town/city would pick up the state’s maintenance responsibilities in the coming fiscal year, including activities on NCDOT right-of-ways in town/city limits. Since the town of Summerfield does

not own or maintain any streets within its limits, it does not receive government funding to help with the cost of townroad improvements, not does it have road maintenance staff or equipment. Regarding why the grass along and in the median of U.S. 220 was mowed in the City of Greensboro limits before it was mowed in the Summerfield town limits, Mills told the Northwest Observer this week that Greensboro mows roads in the city limits and is reimbursed by NCDOT – however, if the city mows more than three times a year, it will only be reimbursed for three cycles of mowing.

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Citizens who have safety concerns related to abandoned structures such as this one in the 7600 block of N.C. 68 in Stokesdale are encouraged to contact Guilford County’s inspection department. The department does not address overgrown, junky property that is an eyesore, however, rather only issues relating to “life safety.”

hazards to neighbors and There is a dilapibeing an eyesore? dated brick house We went to the house in the on N.C. 68 across from 7600 block of N.C. 68 N and the Kings Crossing shopconfirmed some of the grass ping center in Stokesdale. and weeds in the front yard are waist high, and a tree covered with vines is What are the laws about taller than the house. The roof above abandoned structures that the front door is collapsing, which, relate to safety concerns, ...continued on p. 30

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OAK RIDGE town council

July 9 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by CHRIS BURRITT Mayor Ann Schneider called the meeting to order with Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman and council members George McClellan, Doug Nodine and Martha Pittman present. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the meeting was held virtually via Zoom.

MANAGER’S REPORT Water funding. Town Manager Bill Bruce asked McClellan to provide an update about legislation that equally divides $3.4 million in state appropriations among Oak Ridge, Summerfield and Stokesdale; Gov. Roy Cooper signed the legislation earlier this month. The funds were left over from a 2018 study to determine the feasibility of creating a regional water system in northwestern Guilford County. After leaders balked at the estimated $50 million-plus cost of the system, the state legislature recently passed a bill redistributing the money to the three towns to spend on water-related projects.

Oak Ridge could spend the appropriation on a proposed municipal water system if it decides to pursue that option. (See related article on front cover.) Later in the meeting, the council voted 4-1 to create a water advisory board consisting of Schneider, McClellan, Bruce, former Mayor Spencer Sullivan and residents to be named later; Nodine, an opponent of the proposed municipal system, voted nay. The board will advise the council on water-related matters, Schneider noted.

Linville Road speed limit. The council unanimously approved two ordinances that reduced the speed limit on Linville Road northwest of Town Hall from 45 to 35 mph. The North Carolina Department of Transportation recommended reducing the speed limit on the section of road running about a third of a mile northwest of Scoggins Road after some residents had complained about speeding near Town Park, Bruce said.

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WHAT they voted on, and HOW they voted: Mayor Ann Schneider, Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman and council members George McClellan, Doug Nodine and Martha Pittman met July 9 via Zoom. Below are some of the key items they voted on:

 5  0: Approve two ordinances that ultimately reestablished the 35mph speed limit originally posted on Linville Road northwest of Scoggins Road

 5  0: Approve the town’s annual agreement with Oak Ridge Youth Association for the group’s use of Town Park

 4  1: Approve (Nodine opposed) a proposal by Envirolink Inc. to operate a proposed municipal water system and instruct Town Manager Bill Bruce to negotiate a contract with the operator, with final approval required by the council

 5  0: Approve a 2.5 percent annual pay raise for Town Manager Bill Bruce

The first ordinance rescinded the 45-mph speed limit along the stretch of road, while the second reestablished the 35-mph speed limit originally posted there, Bruce said.

NEW BUSINESS ORYA usage agreement. The council unanimously approved an agreement governing Oak Ridge Youth Association’s (ORYA) use of Town Park. The agreement ended more than a year of tension between council members and Tom Collins, president of ORYA, the biggest user of Town Park. In the Nov. 5, 2019 election, Collins endorsed Van Tanner, who claimed the town spent too little on youth sports. The view drew a rebuke from then-

Mayor Spencer Sullivan, Schneider, Kinneman and McClellan. During last week’s meeting, McClellan and Collins addressed each other, reconciling after the two had argued following a council meeting in January. At that time, Schneider called for the creation of a youth athletics subcommittee to explore the relationship between the town and ORYA and seek ways to improve the annual usage agreement between the two parties. “This has been a truly collaborative effort,” Schneider said during last week’s meeting as Kinneman and Pittman, who served on the subcommittee, explained the usage agreement that resulted from negotiations

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in SHORT

“

The safety of patrons at the park” would be jeopardized by an equestrian trail on the Whitaker property. Per Oak Ridge’s Parks and Advisory Board, which has recommended against equestrian trails as part of the expansion of Town Park.

“

This has been a truly collaborative effort.” Mayor Ann Schneider, on

almost year-long discussions and negotiations that ended with a usage agreement between the town and Oak Ridge Youth Association (ORYA). The town will give ORYA $30,000 this fiscal year and promote ORYA events; in turn, ORYA will publicly recognize its partnership with the town in its marketing and other ways.

“

Hate speech in any form is wrong.”

Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman, on fliers recently placed in mailboxes of at least two Oak Ridge neighborhoods.

ing subdivision. with ORYA leaders. The town will give ORYA a subRunoff from Knight’s Landing is sidy of $30,000 in the fiscal year that entering the pond in Linville Oaks started July 1, according and creating erosion, to the agreement. It’s Holmes said. NEXT MEETING essentially a pool of Natural area. Smith money that the Thursday, Aug. 4 • 7pm read emails from association can Ben Walraven draw from to and Barbara CONTACT YOUR TOWN cover the rental Engel asking the (336) 644-7009 of fields, lights for town to create ssmith@oakridgenc.com nighttime activia natural area www.oakridgenc.com ties, paint for lines near the site on the fields and of the proposed other expenses. veterans’ memorial A council member will also serve on the association’s board as a nonvoting member.

COMMUNITY UPDATES

In return, ORYA will recognize the town as a partner of the association in park signs, advertising, marketing and email signatures. Oak Ridge will also promote ORYA’s activities on the town’s website, Kinneman said.

Special Events Committee. Chair Patti Dmuchowski said the committee has set Nov. 10 as the date for an open house for residents to offer input on design plans for the proposed veterans’ memorial.

planned for the Whitaker property.

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Vice Chair Phyllis Anders told the council a proposed horse trail on the Whitaker property would have to be “very short,” at about one mile long. She referred to the board’s report stating that creating an equestrian trail on the property would also threaten “the safety of patrons at the park.” As a result, the board said it would not recommend equestrian trails as part of the expansion of Town Park. Later in the meeting, Schneider said a proposal by the Piedmont Land Conservancy to buy the 113-acre Bandera Farms tract on Bunch Road would create a network of public trails suitable for horseback riding.

Historic Preservation Commission. Chair Debbie Shoenfeld said the commission recently reelected her as chair and Caroline Ruch as vice chair.

...continued on p. 18

(See related article in our June 25-July 15 issue.)

Water system contractor. The council voted 4-1 to authorize Bruce to negotiate a contract with Envirolink Inc. to operate a municipal water system being evaluated by the council. Council members asked for additional information from Envirolink, the only contractor that responded to the town’s request for proposals to operate the system. Councilman Doug Nodine voted against the move, saying the council lacks information to determine whether Oak Ridge could operate the system profitably without putting tax dollars at risk. (See related article on front cover of this issue.)

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PUBLIC COMMENTS Erosion runoff. Town Clerk Sandra Smith read an email from Steve Holmes, president of the Linville Oaks homeowners association, asking the town to inspect storm-water pipes and a retention pond in the Knight’s Land-

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JULY 16 - 29, 2020

STOKESDALE town council

July 9 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by PATTI STOKES Due to social distancing restrictions related to COVID-19, Stokesdale Town Council once again held its monthly meeting virtually by Zoom. Mayor John Flynt, Mayor Pro Tem Thearon Hooks, council members Derek Foy, Jim Rigsbee and Jimmy Landreth, Town Clerk/ Finance Officer Alisa Houk, Deputy Clerk Priscilla Hunsucker, Town Accountant Kim Thacker, Town Attorney Tom Medlin and about 8 citizens attended the meeting remotely. Council approved Foy’s request to record a correction to the March 14, 2019 meeting minutes that were approved last year.

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

Houk said the town’s water operator tested the TTHM (trihalomethanes)

level in the municipal water system in June and the town’s level was 0.050, well below the EPA’s highest allowable level of 0.080. Also, there was no trace of bacteria in the water. Total Computer Solutions has evaluated the town’s computer needs and installed a new computer backup system. The alarm system at Town Hall has been upgraded to use fiber optic lines, which will result in a reduced phone bill with Spectrum. Builders have placed several water meters on hold for homes that will connect to the town’s municipal water system when completed. 564 water system customers were billed in June. Since January the town has received

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34 complaints about Republic Services, which have been personally addressed and forwarded to the company. Houk noted Republic has had issues with their trucks breaking down, which has sometimes delayed their collection of garbage and recyclables. On behalf of the Events Committee, Houk said the 9/11 ceremony is set for Sept. 11 at 11 a.m. at Town Hall. A 160th anniversary celebration for the town is set for Sept. 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteers are needed.

Town to receive $1.1 million

Mayor Flynt said the governor has signed legislation that will redistribute $3.4 million equally between the towns of Oak Ridge, Summerfield and Stokesdale to spend on water-related projects; the money remains from state funds previously allocated for the pursuit of a regional water authority in northwest Guilford County.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

“It has to do with standing” Special Use Permit. Before beginning the public hearing for a special use permit to operate a minor LCID (land clearing and inert debris) on about 19.8 acres on the east side of Pearman Quarry Road, Flynt asked for the town attorney’s advice on whether the council needed to have all adjacent property owners’ permission to hold the hearing virtually. Since only about four out of 12 property owners who were notified of the hearing had responded so far, Flynt questioned whether, in light of legislation in place under the state’s emergency declaration, the town should postpone the hearing until 100% of the owners respond. Medlin, the attorney, explained council members first have to decide who they believe the adjacent property owners are “with standing” (anyone who might suffer special – i.e., monetary – damage) who are entitled to notice and required to consent to the virtual hearing. When asked to explain the differ-

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ence between in-person public hearing and virtual public hearing requirements, Medlin explained that typically adjacent property owners would have the option to be physically present and be heard if they wished to speak. Because of the state’s emergency declaration, hearings are being held virtually; that leads to an additional requirement, which is that not only the people receiving notice, but those who could be financially injured by the governing body’s decision have to give their consent to a virtual meeting, since some people may not be able to attend a virtual meeting or have the necessary technology, etc. “Ultimately, if you move forward and someone says ‘I’m a person with standing’ and appeals the decision, it could be overturned,” Medlin said. After wrestling with the issue, the council determined the adjacent property owners who had been notified of the public hearing all have “standing,” and decided to postpone the hearing while making additional efforts to get the property owners’ consent to hold a virtual hearing.

Applicant requests 93.5 acres be rezoned to RS-30 A public hearing was held for council to review a request from applicants and property owners Ted and Connie Lawson and Mark and DeAnne Lawson to rezone 93.5 acres at the terminus of Peony Drive and Treeline Drive, from AG to RS-30 (Residential, Single-family, minimum lot sizes of 30,000 square feet). Representing the applicants, Bill Greco of Land Solutions explained the 93.5-acre parcel would be developed as an extension of the existing Treeline Trails subdivision, and would connect to existing street networks. New homes on the property will connect to the town’s municipal water system. When conducting a virtual public hearing, council cannot vote on a rezoning application until at least 24 hours afterward, to allow the public time to submit written or verbal comments. A

in SHORT

“

I know there have been a lot of people who are ready for us to look at other avenues …

but the contract with Republic was voted on back in 2016 by a council that is not even here anymore, for five years, so we are locked in until 2021.” Town Clerk Alisa Houk, on

complaints and feedback she has received from citizens about Republic Services, the town’s solid waste collection company.

“

I’m sorry we are doing this – we would rather be overly

cautious… I

think this is a safe and most fair way to do it. We just want to protect everyone’s best interest.” Mayor John Flynt, to the attorney for property owners Johnny and Jeanie Reynolds, on why the council voted to postpone a virtual public hearing for an LCID.

“

There is a $5,000 line-item budget, but that doesn’t mean they can go out, throw a party and blow $5,000 with no accountability.” Council member Derek Foy,

on the town’s Events Committee, then chaired by former council member Frank Bruno, spending money on T-shirts, embroidered hats and jackets, and ink pens in a fiscal year when the town’s expenses exceeded revenue.

special called meeting was scheduled for July 16 at 5 p.m., when the council planned to vote on the rezoning request.

OLD BUSINESS Purchase high-def camera

 3  2 (Foy and Landreth opposed) to spend $3,172.96 to purchase a high-definition camera from Sentry Watch to capture license plate numbers from vehicles suspected of suspicious activity on town property. Approve proposal from Blaney Electric

 4  1 (Landreth opposed) to approve a proposal from Blaney Electric to run a trench and PVC pipe for Sentry Watch to hook up the high-definition camera referenced above. Archiving software Continuing from last month, council discussed purchasing software that would archive town-generated social media posts and citizen responses in order to protect them from being removed; the cost would be about $3,000 per year. Houk said that during a town clerk educational seminar she had attended recently, “We spent one entire grueling day on nothing but records retention and Facebook and other social media.”

finance officer, while those between $251 and $500 must be approved by the finance officer and a council member after an informational email about the expenditure is sent to all council members. Foy clarified that the above-referenced expenditures were for one-time expenses, rather than recurring expenses like utility bills, fees, etc. • Expenses for emergency repairs/ services (separate from those for the water system) may not exceed $2,500 without a vote of the council. To this, Houk said one-time expenses would probably go before the council anyway.

the case. It just hasn’t,” Foy said. When asked for an example, he cited expenses of $400 on embroidered jackets for staff and council members last year, almost $1,700 for T-shirts, $339 for ink pens with town info on them and $500 for embroidered hats. “That was the Events Committee, not me. They have a $5,000 limit in the budget,” Houk responded. “There is a $5,000 line-item budget, but that doesn’t mean they can go out, throw a party and blow five grand with no accountability,” Foy responded. Flynt said if Foy’s recommendations on spending limits were approved, it would make it difficult to decide

“I hear you, but that has not been

...continued on p. 18

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 5  0 to continue the topic indefinitely.

Spending limits emotionally debated At Foy’s request, a “more conservative approach to spending” was on the agenda for the third month in a row as a proposed revision to the spending section of the town’s Separation of Duties policy. Saying he didn’t want to keep “kicking this down the road,” Foy motioned to approved his proposed spending recommendations, which included: • Authorized one-time expenses for emergency water system repairs without a vote of the council be limited to $25,000. • Individual disbursements for nonemergency repairs and purchases less than $250 may be approved by the

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NEWS in brief ...continued from p. 3 Saunders Inn to come down,” said Misty McCall, who oversaw the project for Blue Ridge Cos., the development company that owns the property that’s part of an 86-acre tract proposed for the Henson Village shopping center. Greensborobased D.H. Griffin Wrecking Co. handled the demolition.

Committee, aided by professionals in historic building restoration, concluded that the badly deteriorating structure was beyond repair after decades of neglect. An inspection of the inn found handforged nails and door hinges, wide floor and wall planks and roof trusses connected by wooden pegs.

Construction of the inn started in 1815 and took about five years to complete, McCall said. It opened as an inn in 1822, reportedly as a stopping point for travelers on the wagon road from Georgia to Pennsylvania.

“We have been mindful of the historic importance” of the inn, McCall said in a recent email, explaining that Blue Ridge Cos. CEO David Couch wanted to preserve as many artifacts as possible.

One of the guests was Sidney Porter, who stayed on to educate the children of innkeeper Hezekiah Saunders, according to the town of Summerfield’s website. The teacher’s grandson, William Sidney Porter, was born in 1862 and raised in Greensboro and became the famous short-story writer using the pen name “O. Henry.” In recent years, the town’s Historical

“We will give these old materials new life,” McCall said. The company plans to donate some of the artifacts to the town for its museum and hopes to use some in public spaces in Henson Village. Over the past two years the company has been working on a master site plan for the retail center, Couch said in a recent interview, noting it may present the plan to town staff in the next six months.

COVID-19 diagnosed cases, deaths by PATTI STOKES NW/NORTHERN GUILFORD – According to North Carolina’s Health and Human Services Department, Northwest and Northern Guilfordarea towns have reported the following number of lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases and related deaths as of Wednesday, July 15:

LAB-CONFIRMED COVID-19 CASES and RELATED DEATHS

Until the new store opens, we're proud to continue to serve you at our other local stores. Quality Mart #32 1580 Highway 66 Kernersville, NC 27284

Quality Mart #46 101 Clayton Forest Rd. Kernersville, NC 27284

Quality Mart #41 743 Piney Grove Rd. Kernersville, NC 27284

Quality Mart #49 1690 Highway 68 Oak Ridge, NC 27310

JULY 16 - 29, 2020

Oak Ridge (27310) Summerfield (27358) Northern G’Boro (27455) Stokesdale (27357) NW G’Boro (27409) NW G’Boro (27410) Guilford County

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Number of cases 30 100 121 49 111 215 3,760

Deaths 1 1 5 1 2 3 128

As of July 15, North Carolina has reported 89,484 lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases and 1,552 deaths since March 1. Of the COVID-19-related deaths in the state, 16% have been in the 50-64 age group; 20% have been in the 65-74 age group; and 59% in the 75+ age group; nursing homes have reported 5,001 lab-confirmed cases statewide and 711 deaths among staff and residents. For more info and an upto-date report on the number of diagnosed COVID-19 cases locally, countywide and across the state, visit: www.covid19.ncdhhs. gov/dashboard.

July 2020 a monthly feature of the Northwest Observer

See more local pet photos in our summer Pets & Critters album on Facebook.com/ NorthwestObserver

Meet Fig, a 7-month-old goat who lives at Red Letter Farm in Belews Creek. Fig is an incredible big brother to his sister, Fern, a great friend to his fellow farm animals, which include chickens and horses, and he loves all things edible.

Higgins, 6 years old, started hanging out with Bel-Aire Animal Hospital staff three years ago after his owners decided surgery for a rectal prolapse was too costly and were going to euthanize him. Dr. Packard chose to operate on him instead, and Higgins has since become a beloved member of the Bel-Aire family. Higgins loves to walk around the clinic and visit other animals, and maybe try to grab a kibble or two. Eating is his favorite hobby!

Violet, 1 Â˝, of Stokesdale, was adopted in April 2019 from a local rescue agency. She can often be found lying around her home (as pictured here).

Jojo was adopted from a Guilford County rescue agency seven years ago when he came to live with his forever family in Stokesdale. He enjoys riding on a boat, as proven by these photos of him cruising around Jordan Lake over the Fourth of July holiday.

Thanks to the advertisers who made this section possible.

Chesterbelle – one cool kitty by ANNETTE JOYCE When his neighbors rescued a kitten tangled in the netting of their batting cage, Paul O’Brien and his family were the first people approached about adopting the young feline. Even though his wife, Myla, and their daughters Allie and Peyton, now 19 and 17 years old, begged to keep the kitten, Paul was adamantly opposed to it. “There was no way I would have another cat. We already had one cat and we didn’t need another mouth to feed or more vet bills. I sent her on her way,” he said, smiling sheepishly as he recalled his initial reaction to bringing another cat into their family. It took two days before the women in Paul’s life wore him down. That was two years ago, and the beautifully colored cat, which is a mix between a Siamese and tabby, has since become a beloved and entertaining part of the family. The Kernersville-based family initially thought their new addition was male, so Paul named it Chesterberg. But a trip to the vet revealed “he” was actually a “she,” so they amended her name to Chesterbelle. Adjusting to life in the O’Brien house-

hold came with some challenges for Chesterbelle. The family had another cat, Gracie, a 12-year-old tabby whom Paul describes as an “ornery old lady.” Chesterbelle hoped she would be a friend to play with, but Gracie was not interested. After about six months and a lot of patience from their humans, the cats were finally able to cohabitate without issues. Gracie still does her own thing, but Chesterbelle has turned her attention to her people and found a way to participate in most of their activities. “In most cases she wants to be near you or around you,” Paul said. For instance, when the family is eating dinner, Chesterbelle likes to climb up to the space between the kitchen cabinets and the ceiling where she can keep an eye on what’s going on below. And, when the family heads for their pool, Chesterbelle’s right there with them. Last summer, the girls decided Chesterbelle might enjoy lounging in the water on one of the floats, so they placed her in the middle of a giant flamingo blowup. That worked for a while, until Allie fell out of the float with the cat in her arms. To add insult to injury, she and her sister determined the chlorine

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Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

Peyton O’Brien takes Chesterbelle for a ride on her ﬂoat, which Peyton and her father, Paul, made especially for the family pet. might be harmful to Chesterbelle, so they gave her an outdoor shower.

resembles a throne – at least, a throne for a small animal.

This summer, Paul and Peyton decided Chesterbelle should have her own flotation device. With stay-at-home orders in place due to COVID-19, the father/daughter team found themselves with plenty of time on their hands and set about constructing a float that

The base of the apparatus is made with pool noodles attached to a piece of plyboard. A thick piece of foam covered in plastic and topped with a folded towel assures that Chesterbelle will be comfortable. It’s all topped off with four pegs and a rope that makes pulling her

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

around the pool easy. Because they found all the materials at home, the two didn’t even have to leave the house or spend any money. Best of all, Chesterbelle is happy to lounge on her homemade float as she enjoys her time with the family. Perhaps the most unusual thing about this lovable creature is that she does tricks – a feat rarely seen in felines. It seems Chesterbelle is very food-motivated Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO and is willing to work Chesterbelle gives Peyton O’Brien a double high five, one of for her treats, which many tricks Peyton has taught the cat. are actually bits of her regular food. should make sure you have someone else Peyton started working with Chesto help you,” Peyton said when asked terbelle after reading that Siamese cats about tips for teaching tricks to cats. “It can be trained to do tricks. The kitten helps that Chesterbelle likes her food so caught on quickly, and now has an entire repertoire of entertaining skills. On much.” Although Peyton said kittens are the Peyton’s command, Chesterbelle sits, easiest to train, she’s still teaching Chesshakes hands, stands up on her hind terbelle new tricks. Her most recent trick legs, rolls over, does a high five and a is to spin around. double high five. When Peyton points her finger at Chesterbelle and says While Chesterbelle is lucky to have “bang-bang,” Chesterbelle falls over as if found such a great forever home, it’s she’s been shot. obvious the O’Briens feel quite lucky to have her around. “It takes time and patience and you

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Cat Trivia

How much do you know about cats? A group of grown cats is called a “clowder,” while a group of kittens is called what? a. kindle b. coodle c. litter d. bitty

Which country has more cats per person than any other country in the world? a. China b. New Zealand c. France d. United States

What percent of people identify as cat people? a. 34.6% b. 19.5% c. 11.5% d. 51.2%

Which part of a cat is as unique as a human fingerprint? a. tongue b. paw pads c. inner ear d. nose pad

How did ancient Egyptians mourn when a family cat died? a. didn’t eat for 9 days b. shaved their eyebrows c. threw a cat party d. held a cat funeral

What smell is so gross to cats they will stay away from it? a. citrus b. dog breath c. human sweat d. honey

See the answers to these questions on p. 31

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JULY 16 - 29, 2020

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ADDIE Addie, a 3-year-old female pygmy goat, gets along great with other goats and enjoys long walks with her foster parents. You can easily win her over with just a few cookies, too. Her adoption fee is $150 – if you would like to adopt Addie, please begin the process by filling out the adoption application online at www.reddogfarm.com.

BLUE Blue, a 3-year-old male standard donkey, came to us when his owners could no longer care for him. His favorite treats are carrots, and he will happily take them from you in the pasture. He has wonderful manners and would be a great pet for a family. His adoption fee is $500 – if you would like to adopt Blue, please begin the process by filling out the adoption application online at www.reddogfarm.com.

For more info or to apply to adopt these or other animals in need of loving homes, visit www.reddogfarm.com

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“My name is Selena Kyle. (Appropriate, right? But I changed the spelling slightly to protect my privacy. It’s tough being the famous Catwoman, you know.) I am a blue domestic mediumhair, about 2 years old. Zoë Kravitz will play my character in the 2021 film ‘The Batman’ – don’t miss it when it comes out! Ask for me at my current lair by my secret code, ID#A021849.”

GINGER Looking for a little more spice in your life? Meet Ginger, a spayed female, brown-and-black German shepherd mix. Ginger is about 8 years old, but she’s not too old to learn new things. She loves attention and will even crawl right up into your lap, thinking she’s a small lap dog! She knows “sit” and “down” and is eager to learn more commands in her new home. She also really enjoys busy boxes that keep her mind active. She would do well in a home that is looking for an active and very social dog who will thrive with training and activities to stimulate both her body and her mind, since she’s getting bored with watching “Gilligan’s Island” reruns. Please call the shelter at (336) 641-3400 and ask for Ginger by ID#A021239.

Guilford County Animal Shelter

4525 W. Wendover Ave., Greensboro • Mon-Sat 12-6pm (closed Tues), Sun 1-5pm To check animals’ availability, call (336) 641-3400 or visit

www.guilfordcountync.gov/our-county/animal-services/animal-shelter

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

r e n r o K ’ s Kid local kids local fun for

True or False Read the article on Chesterbelle starting on page 12 and decide if the following statements are true or false. Chesterbelle loves to go swimming. T or F Chesterbelle can give a high-five. T or F Chesterbelle is a mix between a Siamese and a Persian cat. T or F

Stumped? Look for the answers on page 31

Did you know? Hundreds of years ago, Siamese cats were treasured by royal families in Thailand because of their distinctive, unusual, and beautiful appearances. Sounds like Chesterbelle is living a life of royalty with her own personal pool float! Thank you to Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital for making this week’s Kids’ Korner possible

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me to make our office a safe place,” Dr. Olmsted confirmed. “We’ve also added video conference capabilities and are now offering virtual consultations.” When he isn’t providing exceptional orthodontic care and service, Dr Olmsted enjoys spending time with his wife of nine years, Câline, their son, William, 5, and daughter, Catherine, 3. Going to the Science Center and Children’s Museum in Greensboro and parks in Oak Ridge and Summerfield rank high on the family’s list of favorite things to do.

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TOWN COUNCIL

Separately, Kinneman urged people to wear masks and practice social distancing to control COVID-19.

Mountains-to-Sea Trail Committee. Smith reported the committee received 32 submissions with suggestions for a theme for current and future trails in Oak Ridge. The committee plans to select the winner or winners later this month.

 “We need to be careful,” Pittman said, adding she knows few people who haven’t been personally touched by the coronavirus.

...continued from p. 7

COUNCIL COMMENTS

ST BAPTIS T RE O

ALTH HE

WAKE F

 Kinneman said he condemned the recent placement of “fliers containing hateful speech” in mailboxes in at least two Oak Ridge neighborhoods. “Hate speech in any form is wrong,” he said, without providing details about the fliers.

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TOWN COUNCIL ...continued from p. 9

whether some purchases between $250 and $500 are recurring or not. He said he no longer wanted to have check signing authority if it meant he had to make micro decisions on which expenses are recurring. “Stamps, ink cartridges, anything like that, that’s not the issue as long as we’re willing to spend within the budget,” Foy clarified. Emotions escalated as the discussion continued, before Houk finally ordered the council members to “stop now!” and then asked Foy if he would sit down with her one day at Town Hall, go over his proposed recommendations and “come up with something that makes sense for everybody.” “I am sick up to here with the whole bunch, because nobody wants to agree on a daggone thing,” she said. “Priscilla (deputy town clerk) and I are sitting here caught in the middle of arguing and we can’t get regular work done for undoing and redoing and undoing and redoing and answering questions 15 times, and we’ve just about had enough of it.” More discussion ensued before the

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CLOSED SESSION

The agenda listed a closed session for the council to discuss a possible pay raise for Town Manager Bill Bruce. Instead of meeting privately, the council voted unanimously to give Bruce an annual pay raise of 2.5 percent, in line with increases for other town employees. After the vote, the council adjourned the meeting at 9:18 p.m.

council voted on the following motions:

 3  2 (Flynt and Hooks opposed)

to approve Foy’s recommendations on spending limits.

Flynt and Hooks then confirmed they planned to go to the bank the next day and have their names removed as authorized town check signers, which led to the following two votes:

 5  0 to authorize Foy to sign town checks, initial invoices and approve time cards.

 4  1 (with Landreth opposed) to

authorize Landreth to sign town checks, initial invoices and approve time cards.

Planning Board disbanded, restructured See News Briefs, p. 2, and Facebook.com/NorthwestObserver for details on council’s actions regarding the town’s Planning & Zoning Board. During the July 9 meeting the council also discussed an amphitheater in Town Park, if the town receives a matching $50,000 state grant; and voted 5-0 to add a three-minute citizen comment period to all special called and emergency meetings. Following citizen and council comments, the meeting ended at 10:33 p.m.

Ordinary peOPLE,

Extraordinary impact “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” – Jane Goodall

‘I cannot tolerate a kid going to bed without eating’ Frank and Grace Giaimo, owners of Luigi’s Pizza, are donating meals to needy families amid the COVID-10 outbreak by CHRIS BURRITT SUMMERFIELD – Growing up in Italy, Frank Giaimo’s mother distracted him and his six siblings when the gelato truck visited their neighborhood. Though they never went hungry, treats were a luxury they couldn’t afford. Four decades later, amid the COVID-19 outbreak, Giaimo is acting upon the childhood lesson of doing without things he wanted – and taking it a step further. He and his wife, Grace, are donating meals from their Summerfield restaurant, Luigi’s Restaurant Bar & Pizzeria, to needy children and their families in northwest Guilford County. The closing of schools in mid-March due to the coronavirus spurred the couple’s generosity. Giaimo, 51, asked Summerfield Elementary School Principal Jill Walsh how students who had gotten free and reduced-price meals would eat. “I wanted to make sure the kids had lunch,” said Giaimo, who initially prepared pasta meals for families living in Summerfield’s mobile home park on Summerfield Road. “I cannot tolerate a kid going to bed without eating.” With the help of volunteers led by Summerfield Town Council member Lynne Williams DeVaney and

Northern Guilford High School guidance secretary Jan Wyrick, the distribution of meals has reached students attending schools across the northwest Guilford County area. Twice a week, the two volunteers handed out meals to families who stopped by Luigi’s on N.C. 150 at Lake Brandt Road. More than 120 families signed up for meals, totaling $6,450 worth of donations by the restaurant over 10 weeks until the end of the school year in June, DeVaney said. “Summerfield is prosperous, but there are parts of Summerfield that need help,” DeVaney said in an interview last week. “We have all income levels living in Summerfield.” In response to the needs he saw, Giaimo decided to extend Luigi’s meal donations over the summer, and Summerfield Merchants Association (SMA) members volunteered to distribute meals to families in need. SMA volunteers are distributing meals on Mondays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. from the parking lot of Summerfield Fire District’s Station 9 on Summerfield Road. The distribution to about 30 people a week is scheduled to end Monday, Aug. 10, a week before schools are scheduled to open for the new

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academic year. “They asked if we’d take over the summer program, and we said `absolutely’,” said SMA president Terry Helms in an interview last week. “One of the association’s tenets is that we exist for the community, so we’re not just talking about our mission but we’re living out our mission.” Giaimo said he won’t be able to accept financial donations to help pay for food until he sets up a nonprofit organization. Although he’s not worked out details, he plans to continue donating meals even after the school year resumes. “When I start something, I die with it,” Giaimo said last week. “I will not give up.’”

Thanks to Tire Max for sponsoring this new monthly feature in which we recognize “ordinary” people in our readership area who make an extraordinary impact on others. To nominate an “ordinary” person for this feature, email editor@nwobserver.com with their name, a detailed description of how they positively impact others, and your contact info.

OBITUARY Mitchell Leland Lasley, son, brother, and friend to all, died Sunday, July 5, at his family home. Mitch, 17 years young, was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, but spent the majority of his life in Summerfield. Mitch is survived by his loving parents, Neil and Shanna, his big sis, Kennedy, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Mitch loved so many, and was loved by so many more. Those that knew Mitch, even just a little, lost a shining light in their lives. Mitchell left his mark in his short time here. He loved being with family, friends and his cat Flick. He was a rising senior at Northern Guilford High School and a member of the Northern Guilford football team. Go Nighthawks! Mitch proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and planned to ship out after graduation in 2021. Mitch will continue to stay with us all through memories, pictures (some inappropriate) and the laughs we shared with him. At this time, we must come together and smile through our tears as we think of Mitch. He would have wanted it that way. A private service was held Thursday, July 9, at Hanes-Lineberry Funeral Home. A casual celebration of Mitchell’s life was held for friends, family and the community on Friday, July 10, at Summerfield Farms in Summerfield. Please consider donations in lieu of flowers to: Hilinski Hope, P.O. Box 133, Ballentine, SC 29002, or Alley Cat Allies, 7920 Norfolk Ave., Ste #600, Bethesda, MD 20814-2525. Hanes-Lineberry N. Elm St. Chapel has the honor of assisting the Lasley family. Online condolences may be made at www.haneslineberryfhnorthelm.com.

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CRIME / INCIDENT report

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

ASSAULT/AGGRAVATED ASSAULT July 6 | A 28-year-old female in the 8300 block of Wright Farms Lane in Summerfield (off U.S. 158) reported a known suspect punched her in the head twice. July 7 | A 34-year-old female in the 6400 block of Lake Brandt Road in Summerfield reported a known suspect grabbed and twisted her arm. July 10 | A 19-year-old male in the 7100 block of Martin Lake Road/N.C. 150 W in Summerfield reported a known suspect pushed him and swung a pickaxe at his head.

COMMUNICATING THREATS July 7 | A resident of the 8500 block of Vaughn Street in Stokesdale (near the downtown area) reported a known suspect made threats to her husband at around 12:42 a.m.

DRIVING WHILE IMPAIRED July 5 | An 18-year-old male was cited in the 100 block of I-840 W/Joseph M Bryan Blvd in northwest Greensboro for an unsafe traffic movement and driving while impaired; he was released to a sober driver. July 7 | A 24-year-old male and known offender was arrested in the 9000 block of U.S. 158/Branson Road in Stokesdale for driving while impaired. July 10 | A 54-year-old female and known offender was arrested in the 2200 block of Oak Ridge Road for driving while impaired and also cited for driving with an open container of alcohol.

DRUGS July 12 | A 25-year-old male was cited in the 8800 block of Ellisboro Road/Belews Creek Road in Stokes-

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dale for possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance (marijuana).

SEXUAL OFFENSE

July 10 | A resident of the 3000 block of Pleasant Ridge Road in Summerfield reported a known suspect forcibly fondled her.

THEFT

July 6 | Two residents of the 6900 block of Summerfield Road reported an unknown suspect stole their vehicle between July 5 at 10 p.m. and July 6 at 12 midnight and wrecked it about 20 yards from their residence. July 6 | An employee of Food Lion on N.C. 68 in Stokesdale reported a known suspect concealed merchandise on their person while inside the store; when confronted by the employee, the suspect surrendered the merchandise. July 8 | A resident of the 7800 block of Newhaven Drive in Oak Ridge (off Bunch Road) reported an unknown suspect stole a package from their residence containing a black Givenchy handbag worth $2,400. July 9 | A resident of the 7600 block of Thomas Road in Stokesdale (off Southard Road) reported an unknown suspect entered two vehicles in his driveway between 1 and 6:20 a.m. and stole a Honda pressure washer and auto buyer’s paperwork. In a related incident, a resident of the 8400 block of Southard Road in Stokesdale reported an unknown suspect stole tools and toolboxes from the covered bed in his truck.

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COVID TAKEAWAYS

since you were a kid. And now you’re up to that point and it’s been stopped for you. Your senior year, you hang out with your friends. You finally discover who you are. COVID has been an obstacle in the road. You can’t have those memories that other seniors have.

...continued from p. 1

Rachel Goldin, 17, senior, of Oak Ridge: “Since schools closed in March, it’s been a challenge not seeing your friends or teachers in person. It’s really been a letdown for me. Is this going to be what our senior year looks like? “You think of senior year as that year you’ve been dreaming about

Rachel Goldin, a NWHS senior, is disappointed that activities of the school’s color guard are going to be limited due to COVID-19. ‘It’s my last season, so I don’t get a second chance,’ she said.

“I’ve already been notified as a leader of the color guard that we’re not going to have a regular season. It’s going to be shortened, with no competitions, no football games, no senior night, no Friday Night Lights. “It’s really been a letdown for me. It’s my last season, so I don’t get a second chance. “I play clarinet in the band. We won’t be able to participate in allcounty band, all-district band or simply perform a concert. “As for visiting colleges, there are schools that I’d like to tour that I’ve not been able to see. We might tour, but there aren’t any students you can interact with. You go to the college and it’s a ghost town. “At this point, I accept the worst. If good things happen, it will make me more excited.”

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Mackenize Milani-Kaufman, senior, 17, of northwest Greensboro:

“My summer has not been wasted,” said Mackenzie Milani-Kaufman, who has read books, painted and hung out with her cat and two dogs (including Rory, pictured here). “My summer has definitely changed. Usually I’d be in Griffin, Georgia, hanging out with my dad’s side of the family. Three years ago, I had a kidney transplant so I have a weakened immune system and can’t even leave the house right now. “I haven’t left the house for roughly four months other than practice driving to get my driver’s license. I’ve been hanging out with my two dogs (Rory

and Duncan) and my cat (Shadow), which they’ve loved. “Over the summer, I have been able to read a lot of books I’ve been waiting to read. I’ve been writing a lot as well. I’ve also had a chance to paint a lot and am actually getting ready to start an (online) Etsy shop. “My mom commissioned me to make some pieces of art for the house. One of them went in our coffee nook. It shows a coffee cup and the words ‘Free Refills’ above it. “When my mom shared photos of the art online with her friends, they said they’d be willing to pay me to paint some for their houses. We eventually came up with the idea that it would be a good way to make money, especially since I couldn’t physically go out to a job right now. “I’ve been able to take on a lot of personal creative projects. Since we moved into a new house about two weeks before everything shut down, we’ve been able to completely move in and decorate and furnish everything.”

‘Walking Marine’ makes last trek on foot to D.C. SUMMERFIELD – Vietnam War veteran Terry Sharpe, 70, of Summerfield, departed downtown Stokesdale July 1 on his final 300-mile walk to Washington, D.C., to raise money and awareness for veteran issues including homelessness, PTSD and the increased rate of veteran suicides, and to encourage education within families and communities.

Roughly 22 veterans from all branches of the U.S. armed forces die by

suicide each day, according to Veterans Affairs reports. This is the eighth trek that Sharpe, a former M60 machine gunner in the U.S. Marine Corps who has been named “The Walking Marine,” has made to our nation’s capital since 2014. To learn more about Sharpe and his efforts to raise awareness of veteran suicides and funding for veteran support services, or to financially contribute to his efforts, visit www.walkingmarine.com.

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WATER SYSTEM VOTE ...continued from p. 1

and council member George McClellan, who favored moving ahead with planning while seeking more information from Envirolink. Among their questions, Kinneman asked whether the town could save money buying water-purification chemicals directly from suppliers rather than from Envirolink, which proposed an 18 percent surcharge. If the council decides to proceed with Envirolink’s plan for operating and maintaining the water system, Oak Ridge would be able to spend roughly $1.1 million in state appropriations on it. Earlier this month, Gov. Roy Cooper signed legislation dividing among Oak Ridge, Summerfield and Stokesdale $3.4 million left over from the feasibility study of a possible regional water system in northwestern Guilford County. The towns balked at the regional approach due to its cost,

estimated to exceed $50 million. Oak Ridge could possibly use a portion of its $1.1 million to buy community wells operated by Envirolink in four Oak Ridge subdivisions, according to Schneider. Taking over existing community wells would possibly enable the system to provide water to larger areas of town, she said. “The point is to serve our residents and provide water alternatives,” said Schneider, explaining some homeowners are running short of water, forcing them to incur the costs of digging their private wells deeper or relocating them. Initially, Oak Ridge’s system would take over community wells built by developers in new subdivisions with 30 or more lots. While users of existing private and community wells wouldn’t be required to hook up, individuals and neighborhoods could seek to join the system, according to the proposal initially unveiled by then-Mayor Spencer Sullivan in May 2019. While evaluating the feasibility of a

system over the past year, the council hired Envirolink to provide a financial analysis of potential revenues and costs. In May, the council instructed town staff to advertise a request for proposals for a contractor to operate, maintain, manage and provide billing and other customer services for the proposed system. Bruce told the council last week he contacted four firms directly – Envirolink, Carolina Water, Suez and Aqua North Carolina, which operates community wells in numerous Oak Ridge subdivisions – and only Envirolink submitted a proposal. The contractor proposed charging $1,250 a month to operate and maintain community wells in a neighborhood while homeowners would pay $4.25 a month for customer service, billing, collections and distribution fees. Schneider said she wants town staff to explore whether the contractor would reduce its $1,250 monthly fee in developments with fewer than 30 lots – such as townhouse complexes, according to Bruce

– that may eventually tap into the system. Oak Ridge would be responsible for providing a town employee “for coordinating operational matters and quality assurance” for Envirolink’s services, according to the proposal. But Envirolink didn’t project costs for such services, leading Nodine to offer a motion to delay consideration of the contractor’s proposal until it provided cost estimates and answered other questions raised by him and other council members. Nodine’s motion died for lack of a second. “Overall this is a good step,” McClellan said. “I’m ready to move. Let’s go.” Moving ahead with Envirolink’s proposal while pressing the contractor for more information makes sense as Oak Ridge explores “the modest beginning” of a municipal system, Schneider said. “By approving the basic scope of Envirolink’s proposal, we send them an important message that we support further negotiation,” the mayor said. “We can also continue to do our homework.”

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GRINS and GRIPES

Delighted or dismayed by something in your community? Share your thoughts in

words or less

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

 Haw River State Park staff for hosting one of the best summer day camps in the area, even with COVID-19 changes and restrictions. You can tell they enjoy working with the kids/campers. Thanks for hosting (albeit adjusted) camp this summer!  Dr. Camp and staff at Northwest Animal Hospital. As new clients, we called them when our senior dog had an emergency and they got our dog in

the same day and performed surgery all within 24 hours. We are so thankful for Dr. Camp!  The young couple who paid for our dinner June 30 at Rio Grande in Oak Ridge, amidst fire alarms going off and fire trucks coming twice. We’ve done this ourselves, but never expected someone to do it for us. Felt great!  New York China in Stokesdale – the best Chinese food around! We used to have your food every week and we miss y’all so much. We hope you open back up very soon!

 “Grandstanding American” griper (in our June 25-July 15 issue): Don’t dare equate me (Conservative) with leftists who drive Toyotas and Hondas. In my 42 years of driving, I’ve driven three Toyota pickups with over 1,200,000 miles on them. I’ll buy “American” when they’re as good as Toyotas.  Whoever approved the rule that Riverside (in Oak Ridge) homeowners can install their own swimming pools. Now there will be noise until who knows what time. We did have a quiet and beautiful neighborhood, but it is starting to go downhill.  The griper who said scientists were right about >100,000 COVID-19 deaths. They actually predicted over 2.2 million deaths.  Mayors Flynt and Barnes. Your enthusiasm for the predicted housing boom is disheartening. As usual, developers and Realtors never saw a piece of land

they didn’t want to destroy with housing, factories or other blights on landscape.  Oak Ridge ABC store for letting customers shop without masks after the state mandated them, and with a sign on the door saying so.  Stokesdale Mayor John Flynt for his actions in the June 26 (virtual) budget meeting. Your continuous swearing and tantrums are a disgrace to the office you hold. Resign if you can’t handle it.  The inconsiderate people gunning through Oak Ridge with ear-splitting illegal vehicle mufflers. Your noise exhilaration has created a community incentive to record your license plate numbers. Get legal and get considerate or get caught.  The air traffic I am hearing overhead between 6 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. Did the air traffic pattern relocate from PTI such that we would be hearing this more in the last two months?

Editor’s note: As to whether the air traffic pattern has recently changed, we’ll follow up and provide an answer

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Luxury Service. Southern Hospitality. Now oﬀering courtesy pickup and delivery 6716 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale, Just 1/4 mile off I-73 • www.EuroHaus.pro • 336.891.3876 in our next (July 30) issue.  Food Lion in Stokesdale for allowing multiple people in the store without a mask. I was there for 20 minutes and all the people I saw without masks could not have had breathing problems.  StokeRidge Tavern for not requiring employees to wear masks or gloves while serving food, touching money, etc. They may be young, but not all customers are. Get with the program – if you want business, do it right and help protect all!  The person advertising in this paper under “Home Services,” but will not return calls when a message and phone number are left on their voicemail. If you’re not interested, don’t advertise.  Republic Services for not picking up our trash in a timely manner, if at all, and not on the “assigned day” of the week. We’ve made four calls in four weeks and nothing has changed!  The father and daughter at Lowes Foods last Sunday afternoon. If you refuse to wear masks, at least don’t touch all the meat packs, put them back, touch hair, touch meat. Disgusting.  “Grandstanding leftists” griper. Besides their two aircraft plants and two power equipment plants in North Carolina, Honda Auto has 12 manufacturing plants in the U.S., employing more than 30,000 Americans. Toyota also employs more than 30,000 Americans at 10 U.S. plants.  Drivers of vehicles with very loud engines, mainly during evening hours

on 68/150/Linville Road (Oak Ridge). What is up with that? The noise is obnoxious and irritating. Is there a noise ordinance?  All the mask wearers complaining about those who don’t. The mask fiasco is nothing more than political control. Go ahead, wear one, but my constitutional rights don’t end where your phobias begin. Sheep trained to follow.  Narrow-minded thinkers who believe democracy should only function when their position is the only position that should be presented. By the way, for

those of you who remove contrary political signs, you should look for the trail camera first.  Republic Services for continuing to leave oil or hydraulic fluid on the street and my driveway week after week, even after you said you would regularly maintain the trucks. Anyone else having this problem?  StokeRidge Tavern. I didn’t see a single employee wearing a mask while I was there. Isn’t that required right now? Very disappointed with the poor sanitation during this pandemic.

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Outside the … The following reader-submitted GRIPES express opinions about state and/or national topics, and have been separated from the other grins and gripes as a courtesy to those who do not want to read opinions on state and/or national political and other non-local topics in a local newspaper.  The White House for setting up Dr. Anthony Fauci for future removal from the Coronavirus Task Force. As an infectious disease expert, Fauci’s predictions have proven true: we did see a resurgence. Trump politicizes what should be public safety wisdom.  Griper who called our president a liar – how sad! How about watching a real news channel and get back to us after doing your research? Bottom line, President Trump is only worried about keeping America safe and great for all.  Trump, for playing both sides against the middle in the COVID-19 pandemic. Rather than let medical experts direct policy or follow the W.H.O. guidelines, he lets wishful thinking interfere. He said the coronavirus would disappear when warm weather arrived. Not!

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 Florida’s government for not requiring masks in public, leading to the nation’s largest daily Coronavirus case totals since this pandemic began. In July they surpassed even New York’s former highs, affirming the dangers in reopening too soon, spreading infection risk!

JULY 16 - 29, 2020

LETTERS/OPINIONS Submit your editorials (maximum 350 words) online: nwobserver.com e-mail : editor@nwobserver.com

mail: Opinions, 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.

Letters from the same writer will be published no more than every 30 days.

Town, Oak Ridge Youth Association solidify partnership This is a big week for youth athletics in Oak Ridge! With the adoption of the 2020 Usage Agreement between the Town of Oak Ridge and the Oak Ridge Youth Association, we have solidified our long-standing partnership and renewed our mutual commitment to providing excellent sports opportunities for area families. This agreement acknowledges ORYA’s significant contribution to exceptional youth programming through the dedication of numerous parent and community volunteers. Additionally, it recognizes that the Town of Oak Ridge directly subsidizes ORYA programs by providing first-class facilities at Oak Ridge Town Park. More than 300 days in the making, this agreement began with discussions between ORYA and the Town’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board last fall when the 2019 agreement was up for renewal. A need for more substantial change was identified, and for the last six months the Oak Ridge Youth Athletics subcommittee, ORYA board of directors, Parks and Rec Advisory Board, and members of the community have worked together to forge a solid working framework. Discussions centered around improving communications between all groups and

the best solutions for continuing to provide quality youth programming in our community through a renewed partnership. We believe this agreement will strengthen the sports programs offered through ORYA and allow more kids access to programs at Oak Ridge Town Park. Since the park was built, the town has offered ORYA priority use of Town Park athletic fields at no charge. This new agreement quantifies the level of in-kind direct support the town provides to ORYA and their young athletes. Recognizing our shared commitment, ORYA will acknowledge the partnership through various media and signage and the town will help promote ORYA events that take place at Oak Ridge Town Park. Thanks to the willingness of all parties to sit down at the table and have candid conversations, we have taken a fresh look at youth athletics in Oak Ridge and begun the work of strengthening relationships that will benefit local youth and families as we continue our mutually beneficial partnership. Oak Ridge Youth Athletics subcommittee ORYA Board of Directors

Changing with the times For those who missed getting your Northwest Observer in the mail the last few weeks and thought you’d been skipped by your postal carrier – you weren’t. Although we stayed connected on Facebook, we took a break from our print edition the first two weeks in July, which gave us consecutive weeks to focus on heading in a new direction.

with my staff, our website software company, and a consultant as we take a team approach to assessing what we do best, what we can do better, and how we can most effectively divide our resources and attention between print and online. It’s a project that would have been overwhelming even a month ago, but with regular intervals between print editions, I’m excited to finally have the time to “hunker down” and work on finding the best balance between the two.

As is typical when we decide to make a big change, we’re both a little nervous and a lot excited to share this news with you. In the coming months Patti Stokes From this point forward, we’ll be asking our readpublisher/editor the Northwest Observer will ers and online followers to be offered in print the first and third offer specific feedback on what you Thursdays of each month rather than want from us in terms of local news every week – and, when there is a fifth and feature stories, as well as asking Thursday such as there is this month, you to take and share “around town” we’ll have a print edition that Thursday photos, offer article and new feature as well. suggestions, respond to surveys on The decision to reduce our print fre- community-related topics, and more. With your feedback and participation, quency has come about for many reaI hope to develop more of the commusons, not the least of which is because nity partnership that I envisioned when I the pandemic-related downturn in revfirst introduced what was then the Oak enue that we’ve experienced has given Ridge Observer almost 24 years ago. us the perfect opportunity to re-direct some of our resources and focus on strengthening our online presence. But long before the pandemic, I had been struggling with how we can serve our readers best in these changing times when so many people get their information as much, if not more so, on websites and social media as they do from printed copy. In recent weeks I’ve been working

As we take this opportunity to develop the “best of both” in print and online offerings, we do so with the hope that we’ll be serving the communities in northwest and northern Guilford County for years to come. Patti Stokes, NWO editor/publisher P.S. We’ll be back in print July 30, but in the meantime, stay connected with us at Facebook.com/NorthwestObserver.

This space available for

YOUROPINIONS Send your e-mail letters and: opinions online: nwobserver.com editor@nwobserver.com to editor@nwobserver.com

(maximum 350COUNT words)350 ) ( MAXIMUM WORD Letters from the same writer will be published no more than every 30 days

JULY 16 - 29, 2020

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

 AUTO SALES & SERVICE

Luxury Service. Southern Hospitality. THE EUROPEAN AUTO SERVICE PROS

Now oﬀering courtesy pickup and delivery

6716 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale Just 1/4 mile off I-73 EuroHaus.pro | 336.891.3876

SAM'S AUTO BODY SHOP. Any type of body work. 45 years exp. (336) 347-7470.

Place online at

DEADLINE: Monday prior to each issue

NEED HELP? Call (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 Mon - Fri • 9am -12:30pm

INDEX Auto Sales & Service ........ 27 Employment .................... 27 Public Notices ................. 27 Yard Sales ....................... 27 Home Services ............27-29 Misc. Services .................. 29 Misc. for Sale .................. 29 Misc. Wanted ............. 29-30 Pets & Animal Services .... 30 Real Estate ...................... 30

KNIGHT IMPORT SPECIALTY SERVICE. European Auto Service & Repair, 4559 US Highway 220, Summerﬁeld (across from Food Lion). Specializing in factory-scheduled maintenance and repairs. BMW, Audi, Volvo, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Mini and Porsche. 32 years experience. (336) 337-0669. CHOICE TIRE AND AUTOMOTIVE. Oil changes, inspections, alignments and general automotive repairs. 1080 US Hwy 66 S, Kernersville, NC. (336) 992-9002.

 EMPLOYMENT OAK RIDGE PHYSICAL THERAPY front office, Summerfield location at Lake Brandt Road & Highway 150. Full-time person to work reception, scheduling, co-pay collection & phones. Starting 8/10/2020. Candidate must have excellent customer service & computer skills. Medical experience preferred. Hours will be 7:45am–5:15pm. Background criminal, drug and financial check will be done. Please mail resume to PO Box 875, Oak Ridge, NC 27310. CNA preferred but not required for weekend hours. Sat., 9am-1;30pm; Sun., 9am-1pm. Starting pay $13.50 per hour. Training provided. Contact (336) 706-2553. Seeking EXPERIENCED ELECTRICAL SERVICE TECHNICIAN. Residential and light commercial service experience required. Must have above average ability to effectively communicate with customers and document jobs using company software. Experience

running a service van and generator installation a plus. Must have a solid understanding of the NEC and able to use the code book. Background check and license must be clean. Please send resume or short letter of introduction to scott@balexelectrical.com. LEAD TEACHER/STAFF POSITION open in childcare center. Credentials required. Assistant staﬀ position open in childcare center. Experience preferred. (336) 643-5930. NEED RELIABLE EMPLOYEE for water well drilling company in Oak Ridge. Experience in drilling or water pumps is helpful. Good pay. Beneﬁts include health insurance. Must have good driving record and ability to get a Class B CDL. Call (336) 451-9776.

 PUBLIC NOTICES STOKESDALE FIRE DISTRICT INC. will hold its annual meeting Tuesday, July 28, at 7:30pm at the fire station located at 8401 US Hwy. 158. We will present the annual report (financial and operational) and hold the election of 6 board members. Current vehicle registration may be required for proof of voter eligibility if vehicle tax is the only tax paid into the Stokesdale Fire District. If you plan to attend, we respectfully request that you please wear a face mask as a precaution due to the Coronavirus. Thank you. In order to comply with Governor Cooper's Executive Order No. 147 and to promote and protect the safety and well-being of our community, the Annual Meeting of the Oak Ridge Fire and Rescue Company, Inc., scheduled for Monday, July 13, 2020, at 7:30 pm, will be postponed until August 10, 2020, at 7:30 pm. This meeting is being rescheduled to this date in anticipation of Phase 3 re-opening and may be subject to further postponement as necessary to comply with any executive orders or to preserve public health and safety. The purpose of the meeting includes the election of corporate officers and directors, the presentation of the annual performance and financial reports for the fiscal year ending June 8, 2020, and other business of the corporation. Anyone interested in seeking a position on the Board should contact Administrative Assistant Gale Long to obtain

The Northwest Observer • Totally since 1996 The Northwest Observer • Totally locallocal since 1996

and file the required candidate forms. Due to this postponement, the previous filing period has been re-opened as of June 27, 2020, and will now close on July 10, 2020. Anyone desiring to vote at the meeting must be a registered voter in the Oak Ridge Fire District and be listed on the voter registration rolls as maintained by the Guilford County Board of Elections effective as of July 10, 2020. Those seeking additional information or candidate forms may contact Gale at 8325 Linville Road, Oak Ridge, NC 27310, or by telephone at (336) 643-3783.

 YARD SALES YARD SALE. Saturday, July 18, 7am. 8411 Chartwell Drive, Oak Ridge. Huge variety of items. Everything must go. MOVING/YARD SALE. Saturday, July 18, 8am-2pm. 7206 Haw Ridge Road, Summerﬁeld. Two families. Tools, household items & furniture. Karate sparring gear & snow board gear for 10- to 15-year-old.

 HOME SERVICES AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING A-ACTION AIR. A/C Spring checkup, $49.99. Call (336) 382-3750 or (336) 268-6768.

CLEANING CHRISTIAN MOM needs work cleaning houses, running errands. Will ﬁt to your budget. Pet taxi/pet sitting also avail. References. Call Laura Bennett, (336) 231-1838. THE CLEANING TECHNICIAN LLC. With the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be a little overwhelmed. I would like to oﬀer my cleaning services at a discount. Licensed, bonded, and insured. Call Lisa, (336) 207-0770. MAGIC MAIDS, LLC. Fully insured and bonded. Free estimate. Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or one-time. Move-in or move-out. Call Patty, (336) 932-0245. MAID-2-SHINE. Excellent service, 15 years experience. Free estimates, excellent references. (336) 338-0223.

continued on p. 28

JULY16 16- 29, - 29,2020 2020 JULY

27 27

HOME SERVICES

PAOLA CLEANING SERVICE. Residential & commercial. Insured. (336) 669-5210.

L & T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE "We get you mowing!" Comm./res., all models. 2103 Oak Ridge Rd., Oak Ridge. Call (336) 298-4314, LandTsmallengineservice.com.

BRAD'S BOBCAT & HAULING SVCS. LLC. Debris removal, grading, gravel/dirt, driveways, concrete work. (336) 362-3647.

WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Lawn maint., landscaping. Irrigation/ landscape contractor. Hardscaping & landscape lighting. 26 years exp. (336) 399-7764.

CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING Gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. windowcleaningnc.com (336) 595-2873

DECORATING CUSTOM FRAMING, BLISSFUL STUDIOS. Accepting walk-ins & private framing appts. Located across from Golden Antiques in Summerfield! Call Dan for framing appt., (336) 895-6379. EXPERIENCED INTERIOR DECORATOR & personal furniture shopper will help you with style, color, shopping & furniture placement. E-mail appeninc@gmail.com or call Ann Appenzeller, (336) 314-1411.

ELECTRICAL Do you have ELECTRICAL NEEDS? Call Coble Electric LLC at (336) 209-1486. BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC. Got Power? Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192.

Need an electrician? Call BLACKMON ELECTRICAL, INC. Free est. Comm. & res. Licensed & insured. Call (336) 430-5018.

FLOORING MONTERO'S HARDWOOD FLOORING Installation of hardwood, laminate & tile; hardwood sanding & finishing. Commercial & residential. Insured, 17 yrs. exp. Free est., exc. references. Call (336) 215-8842 or visit Monteros-hardwood-flooring.com.

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES LAWN MOWER SERVICE & ATV REPAIR in the Colfax area. Please call Jason, (336) 456-4914. DEPENDABLE HOME & PROPERTY CARE LLC. Offering superior general specialist (handyman) services including HVAC repair. Call or text (336) 565-7018. OLD SCHOOL HOME REPAIR See display ad on page 20.

28 28

JULY JULY 16 16--29, 29,2020 2020

FIX YOUR MOWER! Service and repairs. Spring specials. "We do it right." Free pickup & delivery. Call Rick, (336) 501-8681. APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707. GARY’S HANDYMAN HOME SERVICES “Providing value for the home-ownership experience.” Gary Gellert, serving NC’s Piedmont Triad area. Garygellert@gmail.com, (336) 423-8223. GREENERTIMES SMALL ENGINE Sales & Service Center. All types sold and repaired; comm./res. 9428 NC Hwy. 65, Stokesdale. (336) 548-9286 or (336) 312-3844. CLOCK DOCTOR. Free house calls for sick clocks. (336) 643-9931 or (336) 392-4124.

GRADING / HAULING GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, fill dirt, gravel, etc. (336) 362-1150. H&L GRADING, LLC. No job too tough or too small. Call us first! We are a full-service grading company that specializes in residential projects. Owner/ operator Timmy Hart has more than 30 years of grading and equipment experience. Fully licensed and insured. Land clearing, debris removal, driveways, French drains and much more. (336) 543-7867. E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Driveways, fill dirt, demolition, lot clearing, excavating, bobcat work, etc. (336) 451-1282. ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt, available. Zane Anthony, (336) 362-4035. DTW GRADING & HAULING, INC. Offering complete bobcat services and hauling. Fill dirt, asphalt millings, stone and more. Daniel Wilson, (336) 339-0212.

GUTTERS / SIDING / WINDOWS WILSON SEAMLESS GUTTERS, new construction, repairs, replacement, leaf guards. Free estimates. (336) 420-0200.

LAWNCARE / LANDSCAPING SOUTHERN CUTZ LAWN CARE, offering complete lawn maintenance services & bush hogging. Nathan Adkins, (336) 430-6086. COLFAX LAWNCARE. Core aeration & seeding. Fertilizing, mowing, trimming, pine needles. Complete lawn care maintenance. Res./comm. Fully insured. Serving the Triad for 32 years. (336) 362-5860. TWO TEENS to do your yard work. Hard workers and cheap rates. Please call or text: (336) 423-9334. ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call (336) 382-9875. AQUA SYSTEMS IRRIGATION. Quality irrigation systems. NC licensed contractor. We service all systems. Free estimates. (336) 644-1174. AFFORDABLE LANDSCAPING for all your landscaping needs, including irrigation, installation and repair. Call Joe at J. Gibson Landscaping, an Americanowned and operated small business. Built on capitalism, not socialism. In God we trust. (336) 419-7236. CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, (336) 643-9332. www.carolinastumpandtreeservices.com. GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490. TRACTOR SERVICE. Experienced and local. Bush hogging and garden tilling. Mike, owner/operator. (336) 486-9837. HILL LAWNCARE & OUTDOOR SERVICES. Free est. Call (336) 669-5448.

The • Totally local since 1996 TheNorthwest NorthwestObserver Observer • Totally local since 1996

ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. (336) 643-9157. STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Lic./Ins. 40+ years experience. All phases of tree work. Lots & natural area thinning and cleanup. Large shrubbery jobs, chipping. Oak Ridge. Call (336) 643-1119. Hire a local with references. EXTERIOR GREENSCAPES. Lawn maintenance service. Call for a free estimate (336) 682-1456. DELIMA LAWNCARE. Commercial & Residential. Free estimates. (336) 669-5210. FAY'S LAWNCARE & LANDSCAPING Complete tree removal & trimming. Storm damage clean-up. Landscaping & hardscaping. Insured. Taylor, (336) 458-6491. ORTIZ LANDSCAPING, complete lawn care. Trimming, cleaning, planting & mulch, gutter cleaning, patios & pavers, waterfalls, retaining walls, sidewalks, stonework. Residential and commercial. (336) 280-8981.

MASONRY MASONRY CONCEPTS, brick, block, stone concrete & repairs. Free est. (336) 988-1022, www.masonryconceptsgso.com. COLONIAL MASONRY. 40 yrs. exp. Specializing in outdoor living spaces; dry-stack natural stone and flagstone. Let us help you plan your patio, fire pit, fireplace, kitchen – or anything else you would like! Call (336) 949-9019. www.colonialmasonry.com. SOUTHERN STYLE concrete & landscapes. How about a new patio or fire pit? We can help with all of your outdoor living and entertainment spaces! Fire pits, driveways & sidewalks, patios and more! Give us a call at (336) 399-6619 for all your concrete and landscape needs.

 HOME SERVICES

MISC. HOME SERVICES/PRODUCTS

PLUMBING

COX POOL SERVICE. Openings, closings, routine maintenance, weekly service. No contracts, free estimates! (336) 327-5122.

FREEMAN PLUMBING – new construction, remodel and repair. For ALL your plumbing needs! (336) 580-4525.

KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Residential shingle & metal rooﬁng. Free est. (336) 362-7469.

ON EAGLE'S WINGS residential home design/drafting. Call Patti, (336) 605-0519.

BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR. No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic./ Ins. Cleanliness in your home is our #1 priority. Call Mark, (336) 337-7924.

RENOVATION WORKS, INC. New construction, remodeling, additions, kitchen, bath and decks. We are a locally owned, full-service design and build company, A+ accredited with the BBB. Visit www.myrenovationworks.com or call (336) 427-7391 to start your next project.

WILSON SEPTIC PUMPING & REPAIR. Family owned since 1972. Mention you saw this ad in the NWObserver for a discount. (336) 643-6427. JUNK & DEBRIS REMOVAL, construction, remodeling, and general cleanup, out buildings, garages, basements, yard waste, etc. Call (336) 706-8470.

Your business should be here! Place your classiﬁed ad online at

www.nwobserver.com

PAINTING & DRYWALL CARLOS & SON PAINTING. Interior and exterior. 24 hours/7 days a week. Free estimates, licensed/insured. (336) 669-5210. PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 40 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. Average BDRM walls $100. Insured. Call Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186. STILL PERFECTION PAINTING. Reliable, skilled, aﬀordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com.

BEK Paint Co. Residential & Commercial

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.

PRESSURE WASHING PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Fully insured. Crystal Clear, www. windowcleaningnc.com or (336) 595-2873. CUTTING EDGE PRESSURE WASHING. Aﬀordable, dependable. Please call anytime for free estimate. (336) 706-0103. EAST COAST PRESSURE WASHING & LAWN SERVICE. Soft washing, surface cleaning of driveways and patios. See us on Facebook. (336) 207-3625. HOUSE SOFT WASHING, roof soft washing, pressure washing. Check out our 5- star reviews online! Please visit our website, MartinsPressureWashing.com.

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION ORTIZ REMODELING – Total restoration & home improvement. Drywall, painting, kitchen cabinets, interior trim & more. Free estimates. (336) 280-8981.

David & Judy Long, owners

PREMIER CONSTRUCTION for all your remodeling/renovation needs. (336) 430-9507.

BEKPaintCompany.com

AMERICAN BUILDER CONSTRUCTION INC. Repairs & remodeling, kitchens/baths, additions, decks, attics, basements. Licensed & insured. Short wait list. NC General Contractors. (336) 225-7478.

(336) 931-0600

• References Available • Licensed & Insured • All Work Guaranteed

LAWSON'S PAINTING. Custom decks, pressure washing, boat docks, block ﬁll, wood repair, stain work, textured ceilings, sheetrock repair. Call (336) 253-9089.

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, dock work, siding, windows, rooﬁng, rotted wood. Sr. disc., 41 yrs. exp. (336) 362-6343.

Services TM Construction

 MISC. SERVICES

, INC

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Screened porches | Sunrooms | Patios

(336) 644-8615 office (336) 508-5242 cell Licensed & insured NC Gen. Contractor #72797

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Gated access with 24/7 available here camera surveillance We carry moving & shipping supplies

KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Specializing in room additions, kitchens & baths, garages, vinyl siding and windows, painting, ceramic tile, laminate, hardwood and linoleum ﬂoors, and remodeling of all kinds. No job too small. Free est. Call (336) 362-7469.

AFFORDABLE HOME REPAIRS. One call ﬁxes all! A+ with BBB. For a free estimate call (336) 643-1184 or (336) 987-0350.

(336) 643-9963 • 8207 B & G Court, Stokesdale PRICE MILL BUCKET TRUCK SERVICE. Parking area light bulbs replaced. Flags put up; very light tree work. (336) 382-8040.

 MISC. FOR SALE SEASONED FIREWOOD. $80/pickup truck load, delivered & stacked. (336) 253-7615.

DOUGLAS CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING, LLC. Custom Builder, sunrooms, garages, additions, kitchens, baths. Licensed & Insured, BBB A+ accredited. Free est. Visit www.douglascr.com or call (336) 413-5050.

Got stuff?

JLB REMODELING, INC. Remodeling and additions. Fully insured. NC GC license #69997. Free est. Call (336) 681-2902 or visit www.jlbremodeling.com.

NWO classifieds

ROOFING BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Lifetime shingle and metal roofing. We fi nance. Free Estimates. Since 1979. Please call (336) 362-6343. CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC. Residential roofing, rubber flat roofs, roof coating, metal roofs. 30 years experience. Call (336) 643-8191 or (336) 268-1908.

The Northwest Observer • Totally since 1996 The Northwest Observer • Totally locallocal since 1996 continued on p. PB

PREMIER ROOFING, LOCALLY OWNED. Catering to all your rooﬁng needs. Call (336) 430-9507 for free assessments.

Sell it here in the

submit your ad at

www.nwobserver.com  MISC. WANTED 1/4-1/2 WIDE ELASTIC, at least 7 inches long needed to make masks for school teachers. Please call Beth, who lives in the Oak Ridge area. (336) 644-8155.

continued on p. 30

JULY1616 - 29,2020 2020 JULY - 29,

29 29

MISC. WANTED FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, tillers, ATVs, generators, power washers, go-carts, mini-bikes, golf carts, 4-wheelers, etc. (336) 689-4167. $$$ – WILL PAY CASH for your junk / wrecked vehicle. For quote, call (336) 552-0328.

Got stuff? Need stuff? Place your ad online at

PETS & ANIMAL SVCS. PAWSITIVELY PAMPERED PET SERVICES. Pet sitting and dog walking for your furry friends. Insured. Call Emily, (336) 497-7392.

Selling or renting? The Northwest Observer reaches over 12,000 mailboxes in Summerfield, Oak Ridge and Stokesdale every week. Plus, it’s available for free online and at local restaurants, grocery stores, post offices and more.

We’ll help you reach northwest Guilford County!

WENDY COLLINS PET SITTING LLC. Bonded & Insured. Follow us on Facebook. Call or text (336) 339-6845.

REAL ESTATE LAND FOR SALE LARGE TRACTS of land, Summerfield address, Rockingham County taxes. Call (336) 430-9507 anytime! SUMMERFIELD ADDRESS, Rockingham County taxes. Gorgeous, beautifully wooded. 4+ acre homesite priced below tax value! Call (336) 430-9507 anytime.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

We Help Everyone! SELLERS & BUYERS

Place your real estate ad today (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 advertising@nwobserver.com

YOUR QUESTIONS ...continued from p. 5 without a professional inspection, was the most obvious sign of disrepair. The house appears to be vacant. Stokesdale operates with a small staff and doesn’t have its own code enforcement officer; instead, the town contracts with Guilford County for inspections, planning and other services. We called Clarence Westcott, the county’s inspection services manager, to understand the process for filing a complaint about abandoned, deteriorating houses. For starters, Westcott told us that people with complaints can call the inspections office at (336) 641-3707 or his direct number at (336) 641-4956.

“I need to know the address of the property, who’s complaining and what the problem is, and we’ll investigate it,” Westcott said. He cautioned that his inspectors don’t address complaints about overgrown, junky property, even if it creates

an unsightly nuisance for neighbors.

“I can’t do anything about yards,” he said. “Life safety is all that I’m interested in.” Inspectors evaluate the condition of houses under two categories – condemnation or minimum housing, according to Westcott. If structures fall under either category, they can’t be occupied, he confirmed. If a house is condemned due to life-threatening conditions, such as faulty wiring or a collapsing roof, its electricity is turned off by the utility company, Westcott said. The owners of structures categorized as minimum housing, which would be characterized by broken windows and doors, are required to board up entrances to prevent people from going inside, he said. Once a house has been inspected and determined to be unsafe for occupants, owners are required to take out building permits and make repairs before people can live in them again, Westcott said.

Who will be the VOICE for this child? Over 250 children in Guilford County will go to court alone. Learn how to be an advocate for an abused or neglected child by becoming a Guardian Ad Litem.

(336) 643-4248

www.ANewDawnRealty.com

30 30

JULY JULY 16 16--29, 29,2020 2020

(336) 412-7580 | volunteerforgal.org

The • Totally local since 1996 TheNorthwest NorthwestObserver Observer • Totally local since 1996

REACH

index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

Please support

our advertisers,

and tell them where you saw their ad. Without their partnership, the Northwest Observer could not be free to you, our readers! ACCOUNTING Carlotta Lytton, CPA ........................ 20 Kimberly Thacker Accounting.......... 20 Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC......6

AUTOMOTIVE SALES / SERVICE EuroHaus .................................. 25, 27 Piedmont Truck Tires Inc. ...................2 Prestige Car Wash ............................17 Tire Max ...........................................19

Stokesdale Heating & Air....................3 Stokesdale Storage .......................... 29

INSURANCE Gladwell Insurance Agency.................8

Cat Trivia A group of grown cats is called a “clowder,” while a group of kittens is called what?

a. kindle

What percent of people identify as “cat people”?

c. 11.5%

How did ancient Egyptians mourn when a family cat died?

b. shaved their eyebrows -

Egyptians not only shaved their eyebrows, but continued to mourn the death of their family cat until their eyebrows grew back.

LEGAL SERVICES Barbour & Williams Law .....................7

MEDICAL CARE / WELLNESS

rpages 13 e w s n A from trivia on Which country has more cats per person than any other country in the world? b. New Zealand - according to National Geographic, New Zealand leads the world with an average of 1.8 cats per household. Which part of a cat is as unique as a human fingerprint? d. nose pad - a cat’s nose has a unique pattern of ridges on it just like human fingerprints have a unique pattern of ridges What smell is so gross to cats they will stay away from it? a. citrus - cats have a sense of smell about 14 times stronger than humans and they do not like the smell of citrus

Guardian Ad Litem .......................... 30

Eagle Physicians at Brassfield............22 IK Massage ......................................22 LeBauer HealthCare ...........................5 Novant – Forsyth Pediatrics ..............17 Oak Ridge Physical Therapy .............17 Wake Forest Baptist Health...............18

DENTISTS

ORTHODONTIC CARE

Chesterbelle loves to ride on her float in the pool, but she does NOT like getting in the water!

Olmsted Orthodontics ......................16

Chesterbelle can give a high five. TRUE

BUILDING & REMODELING TM Construction Services ................ 29

CHILDREN’S SERVICES

Borden Dentistry...............................25 Summerfield Family Dentistry .............9

Kids’ Korner

Answers from page 15

Chesterbelle loves to go swimming. FALSE

PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS

Chesterbelle can also sit, shake hands, stand up on her hind legs and roll over.

Quality Oil ........................................10

Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital ..............15 Northwest Animal Hospital ...............12

Chesterbelle is a mix between a Siamese and a Tabby.

ENTERTAINMENT

REAL ESTATE

EMPLOYMENT

The Wright Stuff .............................. 20

GROCERIES / SUPPLIES Southern Foods ................................24

HAIR CARE Great Clips .......................................16

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES BEK Paint Company ........................ 29 Carpets by Direct ..............................14 Eanes Heating & Air .........................23 Old School Home Repair ................. 20 ProStone, Inc. .....................................5

A New Dawn Realty ........................ 30 Jake Letterman, Berkshire Hathaway..3 Nancy Hess, Berkshire Hathaway .......3 Nicole Gillespie, RE/MAX .................21 Ramilya Siegel, Keller Williams..........13

RESTAURANTS Bistro 150 .........................................16 Oak Ridge Diner...............................17 Rio Grande Mexican Kitchen ............16

YOUTH SPORTS / CAMPS

Chesterbelle is a mix between a Siamese and a Persian cat. FALSE

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Thursday, July 30 To place a DISPLAY AD in our next issue or a future issue, contact Laura at: (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 or advertising@nwobserver.com CLASSIFIED ADS can be placed and scheduled online at www.nwobserver.com or, contact Rene at (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 or classifieds@nwobserver.com

Oak Ridge Youth Association .............6

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