Northwest Observer / Sept. 15-28, 2022

Sept. 15 - 28, 2022

bringing the local news home to northwest Guilford County since November1996

FOLLOW THE TRAIL

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IN THIS ISSUE

Ben Jones (left) with Friends of the MST (Mountains-to-Sea Trail) and Oak Ridge MST Committee members Ann Steele and Mike Kimel stand beside the kiosk and information panel installed Aug. 29 at the Headwaters Trailhead in Oak Ridge. The Headwaters Trail, which is the newest segment of the MST in Oak Ridge built by volunteers, follows the Haw River to Linville Road.

Elizabeth “Betsy” Ingram recognized.2 Remembering Doug Nodine ..............2 Land Use Plan presentation Sept. 26 ... 3 Your Questions .......................................4 Oak Ridge Town Council meeting ...... 6 Stokesdale Town Council meeting ...10 Welcome to our new advertisers ......14 Honor Run on Oct. 15 to honor vets .. 16 NWO Business & Real Estate ...............17 Shopping center OK’d near Northern..18

The almost 1,200-mile MST extends across North Carolina from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks; the MST’s Segment 8 is 64.6 miles and includes a route through Oak Ridge that takes hikers through the beautiful Cascades Preserve, to the headwaters of the Haw River, and past Oak Ridge Military Academy.

Residents cope with inflation............ 20 Kids’ Korner .......................................... 28 Community Calendar ....................... 30 Crime/Incident Report ....................... 34 NWHS Hall of Fame ............................. 35

Photo courtesy of Anne Steele

Evelyn Brown thoroughly enjoyed cotton candy and carnival rides at RidgeFest. See more RidgeFest photos and a follow-up story .......36

‘You are the epitome of leadership’

by PATTI STOKES OAK RIDGE – Oak Ridge Town Council members set aside time during their Sept. 1 meeting to recognize former council member Roger Howerton for his lifetime of service to Oak Ridge, which includes but is far from limited to his 15 years on the town council.

Howerton was involved with guiding Oak Ridge’s future long before

the town was incorporated. By 1996, the location and character of the rural farming community had begun attracting both developers and a stream of newcomers.

Roger Howerton To ensure their town developed in a way that was progressive but still retained its unique character, Howerton and some other long-time residents started working on a plan to incorporate it.

File photo/NWO

Lifetime Oak Ridge resident Roger Howerton, 90, honored at Sept. 1 council meeting

The group’s efforts paid off, and in 1998 Oak Ridge received its town charter. Howerton was selected by the group to serve on the interim town council, was elected the following year by the voters of Oak Ridge, and served until the end of his fourth term in 2013.

In his 90 years, Howerton has witnessed many changes in the town he grew up in (way back when Oak Ridge Road/N.C. 150 was a dirt road and tobacco farms dotted the landscape).

“We were a farming community, but we were seeing a lot of elderly people aging out. Meanwhile, their children

...continued on p. 29

Summerfield Stars on national level ..37 Grins and Gripes ..................................41 Classifieds ............................................ 43 Index of Advertisers ............................ 46 NWO On The Go .................................. 48

Y T I N U M M O C

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NEWS in brief

Summerfield Council recognizes Elizabeth “Betsy” Ingram for her years of service to the town

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Summerfield Town Council recognized Elizabeth “Betsy” Ingram (center, holding plaque) at the Sept. 13 council meeting for her many years of service to the town. Ingram and her husband, John, moved to Summerfield when they were in their early 60s and are both now 86. Between March 2001 and August 2001, Ingram served the town in various capacities, including as a member of the town’s Finance Committee, Zoning Board and Historical Committee. Shown in photo, L to R: Council members John Doggett, Mayor Tim Sessoms, Jeff Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Lynne Williams DeVaney, Reece Walker, Betsy and John Ingram, and council member Janelle Robinson.

The late Doug Nodine receives recognition at council meeting Hubert Lawson and the Bluegrass e Country Boys will b bringing bluegrass gospel to the stage!

At Oak Ridge’s Sept. 1 council meeting, the man family and close friends called ‘Captain’ was described as a statesman who loved Oak Ridge and was guided by common sense

by PATTI STOKES

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SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

OAK RIDGE – During a time set aside

The Northwest Observer •atTotally localTown since 1996 Sept. 1 Oak Ridge Council’s

meeting, friends and council members shared thoughts about the late Doug Nodine, who passed away in July at age 75.

A commercial and residential developer by profession, Nodine served on the town council for almost six years until his resignation last Doug Nodine

...continued on p. 12

‘Vision 2040 Land Use Plan’ to be presented Sept. 26 SUMMERFIELD GROWTH STRATEGY AREAS

Pumpkin Patch Days

Sat. & Sun. in September & October

10am - 3pm

September 17, 18, 24 & 25 October 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 & 30 Map courtesy of Piedmont Triad Regional Council Planning Dept.

This map – one of several maps in the 70-page Summerfield Vision 2040 Land Use Plan – identifies recommended primary growth, secondary growth, limited potential growth and rural conservation areas within the town’s boundaries. To view a larger version of this and other maps in the plan, visit www.summerfieldnc.gov (select “About” at the top of the homepage, then “Projects” and then “Land Use Plan”).

Summerfield’s land use plan seeks to identify primary, secondary and limited growth areas while preserving rural character and resources

by PATTI STOKES SUMMERFIELD – Summerfield Town Council and the town’s Planning Board will hold a joint, special-called meeting Sept. 26 for a presentation

of the Summerfield Vision 2040 Land Use Plan. In the document’s introduction, it states the plan “seeks to meet today’s growth challenges, while ensuring the Town is within compliance of new state laws pertaining to land use planning and zoning. The plan looks at future growth out to 2040, with key policy and land development recommendations.”

The land use plan has been in the works since March 2021, when a steering committee comprised of staff

...continued on p. 26

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

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

OUR TEAM

Photos by Patti Stokes/NWO

Tree roots growing beneath paved surfaces of the A&Y Greenway present safety issues for walkers, runners and cyclists.

Patti Stokes, editor/publisher Laura Reneer, marketing manager Kelli Jessup, publisher’s assistant Rene Collins, administrative assistant Yvonne Truhon, graphic designer Leon Stokes, IT director Lucy Smith, finance manager Linda Schatz and Tom McCoy, distribution Chris Burritt, staff writer; Helen Ledford, Lily Pierce and Annette Joyce, contributing writers

HOW TO REACH US email: info • celebrations • photos communitynews • realestatenews calendarevents • grinsandgripes opinions • editor • questions ... @ nwobserver.com phone: (336) 644-7035 fax: (336) 644-7006 office: 1616 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge mail: PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310 hours: vary, so please call before dropping by

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SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

It’s become increasingly challenging for those of us who walk, run and bike on the A&Y Greenway to safely navigate around the cracks and holes in the pavement.

Who is responsible for maintaining the Greenway?

The paved surface on the portion between Strawberry Road in Summerfield and Bur-Mil Park is so destroyed with tree roots that a person needs a full-suspension mountain trail bike just to ride on it. Can someone at least grind the bumps down?

Shawna Tillery, planning and project development manager with Greensboro Parks and Recreation, told us in July that the city’s Parks department was working with its Engineering and Inspections, Transportation and Field Operations departments to address needed improvements to the Atlantic and Yadkin Greenway from Strawberry Road to Lake Brandt Road.

“Improvements will address root heave and asphalt condition, widening to design standards, and identifying and removing select trees,” Tillery wrote in an email to the Northwest Observer, noting the A&Y improvements project had been submitted for funding under the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Northwest submission The process initiated byObserver the City

of Greensboro.

We recently circled back to Tillery for an update on the repairs and improvements, and she told us that unfortunately, the project did not score in the top percentages for ARP funding.

The City has received repair quotes with both contracting and materialsonly quotes for repairs and is reviewing options to address the A&Y repairs, Tillery wrote in an email. She added that repairs are impacted by staffing levels, which have not been at 100%.

“Maintenance areas within P&R and Field Operations are reviewing the project scope and timeline, which should be finalized by late fall,” she wrote.

“At this point of the process we are looking at opportunities with internal staff to determine a phased repair process with both the asphalt and tree removal,” she added. “The biggest challenge will be the delivery of materials to the area but our parks operation division has begun to explore access opportunities to make a viable repair plan.”

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OAK RIDGE town council

Sept. 1 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by PATTI STOKES

RECOGNITIONS

Mayor Ann Schneider, Mayor Pro Tem Jim Kinneman and council members George McClellan, Martha Pittman and Spencer Sullivan were present for the monthly council meeting, as were the town manager, planner, deputy clerk, attorney and about 40 citizens, including several firefighters with Oak Ridge Fire Department and an officer with the sheriff’s District 1 office.

Recognition: Doug Nodine. Citizens and council members shared reflections on former Planning Board member/chairman and councilman Doug Nodine, who resigned from the council last March while serving his second four-year term; he passed away from glioblastoma in July. (See article on p. 2.)

Recognition: Roger Howerton.

Mayor Schneider announced that a park bench will be unveiled in Heritage Farm Park on Heritage Day (Sept. 24) and dedicated to former councilman and mayor pro tem Roger Howerton, who turned 90 this year, “in honor of his long and faithful years of service to the town.” Following the

Pastor Andy Lambert, formerly the senior pastor of Oak Ridge United Methodist Church, led the opening prayer.

 5  0 (in separate votes) to

approve the meeting agenda and Aug. 4 regular council meeting and closed session meeting minutes.

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SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

PUBLIC SAFETY Sheriff’s office. A representative of the sheriff’s District 1 office reported officers responded to 227 calls for service in Oak Ridge last month; incidents reported included the theft of an enclosed trailer on Aug. 10, a shoplifting at the Verizon store on Marketplace Drive, and the theft of a 4-wheeler from an unsecured shed. No smash-and-grabs were reported in the town last month, and residents were encouraged to continue being vigilant about not leaving valuables in their vehicles, especially in plain view.

There were the usual traffic issues associated with the new school year getting underway, the officer said, and he encouraged parents of Oak Ridge Elementary students to follow the school’s traffic patterns.

Oak Ridge Fire Department. After noting that members of the B shift were in attendance, Lt. Mike Ritchey reported the department responded to 82 calls for service in August; three were for fires (no resulting property damage), nine were for false fire alarms and 43 were rescue/medicalrelated. The average response time was seven minutes.

Safety tip: Cooler temperatures this time of year combined with lower humidity create dryer conditions, and Ritchey advised residents to make sure all outside fires are contained.

When asked if the department’s personnel still installs children’s car seats, Ritchey said no, but Summerfield Fire Department does.

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announcement, council members shared thoughts about Howerton. (See article on front cover.)

Tracy Williams, attorney

In response to another question about how residents can confirm whether conditions are safe for outside burning, Ritchey said N.C. Forest Service posts that information daily.

Residents can obtain a burn permit on the fire department’s website or at

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

www.ncforestservice.gov/burn_permits.

Salaries. Ann Taylor with Piedmont Triad Regional Council presented results of the town’s 2022 Salary Update Study and recommendations for staff member salary increases.

Taylor noted the pay scale for town park groundskeepers was particularly low compared to what other municipalities pay, and she recommended reclassifying these positions to higher pay grades, resulting in an average increase of 9%.

Taylor also recommended reclassifying the deputy town clerk’s position to reflect expanded duties and the town clerk’s position to incorporate duties of an assistant town manager.

Town Manager Bill Bruce proposed accepting Taylor’s recommendations, but with a 2% salary increase per pay grade rather than 2.5%.

Council discussion. Kinneman said the town had struggled to find park groundskeepers, which is one reason this pay scale study had been conducted. Expanding the responsibilities of the deputy clerk and the town clerk also made sense, he said.

“We have an amazing staff and we want to keep them.

We need to fairly and competitively compensate them,” Kinneman added.

“I’m a firm believer that compensation should always accurately reflect skills and abilities,” Pittman said. “…I think the numbers clearly support the recommendation of our town manager.”

“By paying attention to being competitive, it tells our staff we value them and want to keep them here. I would hate to replace any of them – they’re too good,” Sullivan said.

Schneider said staff members are the town’s most valuable resource and

the recent celebration of two 10-year staff anniversaries and a 15-year anniversary was no accident.

 5  0 to approve the town

manager’s recommendations to reclassify two part-time and three full-time groundskeeper positions as well as those of the planning director, parks and recreation director and town manager to higher pay grades, for an average salary increase of 7.2%; to hire a full-time office assistant (salary already approved in this year’s budget); to expand the job duties of the deputy clerk and town clerk, resulting in average salary increases for their positions of 9%; and approve a budget amendment of $43,282 to implement the pay grade/salary adjustments and promotions.

Heritage Farm Park. Bruce reported a 24-hour drawdown test on the new well in Heritage Farm Park confirmed it will provide enough water for the park’s irrigation and restroom needs,

so engineers can now finalize the permitting.

“We’re hopeful we can turn dirt the first part of next year,” the town manager said.

When asked about the status of financing for park construction, Bruce said paperwork and earlier quotes by two banks will be refreshed, and if interest rates rise above 3%, it will come back to the council for approval before moving forward.

 5  0 to approve a resolution to

lease or rent office space to Environlink, the town’s municipal water operator, for $1 a year.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Ricky Jones, a resident of W. Harrell Road, apologized for being slow to address being in violation of the town’s ordinances (Jones was notified over a year ago that his property was not

zoned for use as an automobile storage yard and/or salvage yard). Saying he had experienced several personal hardships, Jones thanked the town manager and planner for their patience and said he would continue working with them to resolve the problem.

FINANCIALS

Town Finance Officer Sam Anders said the town recently received $675,336.12 collected on its behalf by Guilford County Tax Department for property and motor vehicle taxes.

The town also received a second and final round of federal American Rescue Plan funding, for a total of $823,051. Anders said it came with “no rules set in stone” and could be placed in interest-bearing accounts.

When asked if Anders knew when the town’s share of ARP funding from Guilford County would arrive, Anders said, “No. As of now, the county has not transmitted any of the paperwork to us.”

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

 5  0 to accept the monthly financial report as presented.

COMMITTEE REPORTS Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Ann Steele, co-chair of the town’s Mountainsto-Sea Trail Committee, said the committee will share information about trails within the town at Heritage Day on Sept. 24. She thanked Anders for donating bamboo from the property he recently purchased, and said it would be used for children to make and decorate hiking poles at Heritage Day. Last month a large tree fell during a storm and damaged the new fence in the gravel parking lot on Linville Road near the Haw River. Thanks to two volunteers, Joel Deaton and Don Gillespie, the fence was quickly repaired, Steele said.

An MST workday was planned for Saturday, Sept. 3.

...continued on p. 8

SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

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OAK RIDGE TOWN COUNCIL ...continued from p. 7 A kiosk and information panel were recently installed at the Headwaters Trail on Linville Road, which Steele said will be a great source of info for thru-hikers as well as locals.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Headwaters Trail is planned for Oct. 21.

them in December; the luminaries will remain lit until after Christmas. There will be a new Santa Claus this year and as is tradition, he will arrive in Oak Ridge Fire Department’s antique fire truck. Fourteen craft vendors and food trucks have committed to participate.

Conservation Easement. Chair Stephanie Farrell reported the committee recently narrowed its target list of property owners deemed to be a good fit for the easement program from 80 to nine owners who they will focus on reaching out to in the coming weeks to set up intro meetings and provide more information about the program.

The committee will sell hot dogs and hamburgers at RidgeFest, with all profits going to the Veterans Heritage Green.

Special Events. Committee chair Patti Dmuchowski gave a shoutout to Maureena Shepherd & Associates for donating $5,000 to the Veterans Honor Green in Heritage Farm Park.

To date, almost $130,000 has been raised through donations and fundraising, and the committee hopes to have raised $150,000 by the end of September.

There will be a small 9/11 memorial placed at the flagpole in the park.

The committee will have a booth at Heritage Day, and will sponsor an oldfashioned pound cake baking contest.

Plans for the annual “Light up the Night” on Saturday, Dec. 3, are in the works, Dmuchowski said, adding that volunteers will be needed to help test luminaries in September and install

Several committee members recently helped with cleaning up the Farmhouse Community Center (formerly referred to as the “Redmon house”) in the town park.

The committee will host a Veterans Day ceremony on Friday, Nov. 11, at 10 a.m. at the town park’s amphitheater.

A celebration for the town’s 25th anniversary next year is being discussed.

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Co-chair John Garrett reported the board recently approved Reese Bell, a high school sophomore, to serve as a teen advisor; approved a draft of the 2023 ORYA usage agreement and revision of for-profit permit rules for park use; and approved three board members to serve as Music in the Park

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subcommittee members.

Garrett said the Music in the Park on Aug. 13 was very successful, and somewhere between 500 and 700 people attended.

“When we were done, everyone seemed happy and felt they had contributed to something worthwhile,” Garrett said, adding much of the event’s success could be credited to committee member Phyllis Anders and all the other volunteers.

The final Music in the Park this season will be held Oct. 8, from 5 to 8 p.m., and will feature two bands.

Deputy Clerk Ashley Royal reminded everyone that Heritage Day will be held Saturday, Sept. 24, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the town park, and several free activities are planned, including Revolutionary and Civil War reenactors and displays, live music and clogging demonstrations, blacksmithing and outdoor cooking demonstrations, food, games, exhibits of household goods, farm items and tobacco equipment, tractor-pulled rides, cannon firings, kids’ activities, and characters in period dress.

Kinneman suggested a prewarning before the cannon is fired, and was told a megaphone has been purchased and an announcement will be made prior to the cannon being fired each of three times during the day.

Oak Ridge Elementary School. Royal read a report form principal Penny Loschin, who said the new school year got off to a great start and staff and the school’s Parent Teacher Organization have lots of events and clubs planned for this year. Loschin asked for the community’s patience with

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

traffic issues associated with the beginning of school, and said these issues had already started improving.

Oak Ridge Youth Association. Randy Collins, ORYA’s community relations advocate, reported the first night of RidgeFest, Sept. 8, would be ORYA night, and ride ticket packages would be discounted $5.

COUNCIL COMMENTS Sullivan said the town worked hard and spent a lot of money to find a well that would serve the needs at Heritage Farm Park.

“There is a reason the town has been pursuing a water system and that was proved out by the time and money we spent to get the water we needed,” he said.

Pittman encouraged residents to attend Heritage Day and while there, to familiarize themselves with some of the town committees that will have tents set up.

Kinneman said Oak Ridge Lions Club would be participating in RidgeFest and planned to again sell hot dogs at Heritage Day. Also, the Lions Club’s annual golf tournament and largest fundraiser will be Sept. 29.

WiFi in the town park is in the final testing mode.

Kinneman encouraged anyone able to donate blood to do so, and said several local churches have blood drives.

McClellan thanked the town’s volunteers and again, said Music in the Park in August was fantastic.

Schneider thanked the volunteers who helped clean up the former Redmon house in the town park and credited the town’s Parks & Rec staff for their contributions to RidgeFest, which is an event held in partnership with the Merchants of Oak Ridge.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:39 p.m.

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STOKESDALE town council

Sept. 8 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by PATTI STOKES After calling the monthly council meeting to order at 7 p.m., Mayor Mike Crawford acknowledged the upcoming 21st anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001, then led a moment of silence.

In recognition of Constitution Week (Sept. 17-23) and the 235th anniversary of the drafting of the U.S. Constitution on Sept. 17, Crawford read a proclamation declaring Sept. 17-23, 2022, to be Constitution Week and asked citizens to “reaffirm the ideals framers of the constitution had in 1787 by vigilantly protecting the freedoms guaranteed to us through this guardian of our liberties.”

Crawford said the flag at Town Hall would fly at half-staff on Friday, Sept. 9, through the morning of Monday, Sept. 12, in memory of 9/11.

Crawford then addressed criticism the council recently received for “a

variety of things.”

“Some of it we may be due, and some of it I’m not sure we’re responsible for,” he said.

First, he explained Stokesdale Elementary’s principal approached the town last month about paying for a deputy to help with traffic issues during the first week of school. Rather than use taxpayer dollars, Crawford said he and Derek Foy, the mayor pro tem, secured private funding to pay for a deputy.

“To my knowledge, that was satisfactory,” Crawford said.

The mayor then quoted the late President John F. Kennedy, who in his inaugural speech said, “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”

“And, Ronald Reagan believed in

the trickle-down theory, which would bring something like this down to our township,” he said. “Ask not what your town can do for you, ask what you can do for your town.”

The town was also criticized for not planning a 9/11 memorial, Crawford said.

“If the townsfolks have a strong feeling about this, bring it to our attention,” he said. “We don’t necessarily have to lead the way, but the townspeople can, and we’ll fill in wherever we have to.”

minutes from the Aug. 11, 2022 closed session.

PUBLIC SERVICE

Randy Southard, Stokesdale Fire Department’s deputy chief, reported the department responded to 75 calls in August and responded to a record 1,000+ calls last fiscal year, which ended June 30.

After adding an agenda item requested by council member Tim Jones, the meeting agenda was adopted.

For a safety tip, Southard recommended citizens download the G.E.A.N.I. app, which he said is an excellent tool to stay informed about severe weather in the area. To sign up, go to www.guilfordcountync.gov/our-county and select “Emergency Notifications” at the top of the homepage.

(Jones opposed) to adopt minutes from the Sept. 9, 2021 meeting; Jones opposed because he wasn’t on the council at the time so couldn’t verify the minutes accurately reflected what transpired at the meeting.

When asked about the department’s board of directors, Southard said the board has 12 members, elected in groups of four for threeyear terms. No new board members were elected at the annual meeting in July.

41

50

(in two separate votes) to adopt minutes from the July 14, 2022 council meeting with one addition, and

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ADMINISTRATIVE

Town clerk Dale Martin reported on the number of new applications for water service and water meters ordered, on hold and in stock. She said 700 water customers were billed in August and after 15 customers received courtesy calls about past-due accounts, seven of them brought their balance up-to-date.

Seven reservations were recently made for the Town Hall chambers and park picnic shelters, Martin added.

A subdivision checklist has been updated to outline the process for bringing a new subdivision onto the water system.

Deputy clerk Robbie Wagoner is training on water meter setups so he can fill in for Priscilla Hunsucker if/when she’s out.

The Coke machine in the park’s concession stand has finally been removed, Martin reported (the continued presence of the machine has been a point of contention for the last several months, especially for council member Tim Jones).

Gov. Cooper has rescinded the State of Emergency implemented in March 2020, the clerk added, which means the council can no longer meet remotely as a group.

Park Improvement Committee. Chair Tee Stephenson reported committee members have been meeting weekly and reviewing results of a survey the town conducted a few years ago to help guide priorities. They’ve also visited several area parks, including those in Summerfield, Oak Ridge, Wentworth and Jamestown, to get ideas for desirable features to possibly incorporate in Stokesdale’s town park.

The committee is narrowing down its ideas for amphitheater design and materials. The landscape architect submitted a preliminary site plan for the amphitheater, which the committee returned with suggested revisions.

Committee members are also discussing options for more playground equipment in the park.

“We want to move forward with what makes the most sense and serves the most citizens at a reasonable cost,” Stephenson said.

Announces the 2023 Easter Horse Show & Rodeo will be held at Hardin Farm & Stables in Stokesdale

FINANCIALS

Finance officer Kim Thacker presented updated balances in the town’s general fund and water enterprise accounts and noted the town had received another $362,7375.50 in American Rescue Plan funding.

Thacker also noted the town has contributed to the state employees’ retirement fund since July.

Information for the annual audit has been submitted to the auditing firm.

CITIZEN COMMENTS Mark Nadel thanked the mayor for officially recognizing 9/11. As a former first responder in New York, he said the issue is very personal to him and he felt the town should take the lead on organizing a 9/11 ceremony each year.

“Everyone says ‘Never Forget,’ but we are already forgetting,” Nadel said.

Councilman Jim Rigsbee asked if Nadel would be willing to help coordinate the ceremony and Nadel said he would.

Eileen Thiery praised Robbie Wagoner, the town’s new deputy clerk, and said Friends of Stokesdale will sponsor a social/dance on Sept. 16, 6 to 9 p.m. at the Longhouse, with a DJ, refreshments and a silent auction. The nonprofit will also host Farmers’ Day on Oct. 1, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Stokesdale United Methodist Church, when citizens will be invited to see farm equipment on display, enjoy live music, food and a contest for “Ms.” and “Mr. Farmers’ Day” for children 5 and under.

Randy Southard clarified the fire department has never organized a 9/11 ceremony, rather supported others who have done so.

April 7 & 8, 2023 The Oak Ridge Horse Show Association Board of

Directors are excited to announce that given the growth and success of the reinvigorated Easter Horse Show & Rodeo, the 2023 show will be held at Hardin Farm & Stables, 8201 Millrun Road in Stokesdale. Hardin’s has convenient access for both the local community and those traveling to the show from Highways 158 and 220. This facility will support space for additional activity and class options, as well as improved parking and traffic flow in and out. The new location will also allow for more permanent placement of horse show equipment and facilities required as the show expands to include even more offerings going forward.

A special thank you to Renee Weidel for allowing us to hold the show at Steeple Hill Farm these past two years. Given all the other challenges associated with restarting this great tradition, use of the Steeple Hill facility allowed us to focus on and conquer those concerns. We are truly grateful for Renee’s generosity in permitting us to begin again in such a wonderful equestrian venue.

We look forward to seeing you at the 2023 show!

 5  0 to enter into a new 3-year

contract with Gray & Creech to keep the existing Sharp copier at Town Hall, at $144/month and an equipment maintenance agreement of $1,464/year.

OakRidgeHorseShow.org |

The Northwest Observer ...continued on p. 13 • Totally local since 1996

ORHSAASSOC SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

11

THE LATE DOUG NODINE RECEIVES RECOGNITION, REMEMBRANCE ...continued from p. 12 March due to illness. Prior to that he served as a member of and chairman of the town’s Planning Board. He was also a member of Oak Ridge Lions Club for almost 20 years, and he helped found Preservation Oak Ridge and served as its president.

“He and Cathy (Nodine’s wife) epitomized service,” said Oak Ridge resident Frank Kelleher, who said he knew Nodine through Oak Ridge Lions Club.

Nodine was a fan of singersongwriter Bob Dylan, and Kelleher shared lyrics from one of Dylan’s songs, “I shall be released,” which he said reminded him of Nodine.

“They say every man needs

protection, They say that every man must fall, Yet I swear I see my reflection, Somewhere so high above this wall. I see my light come shining, From the west down to the east, Any day now, any day now, I shall be released.”

Jeff Bair said he got to know Nodine through Preservation Oak Ridge.

“I first met him when I went to see if I could do anything (for the nonprofit, which raised private funds and restored the historic Ai Church at N.C. 68 and Alcorn Road). “We got along real good, and I was honored to be able to work with him for all those years.

“At the funeral they called him ‘Captain.’ Very much, he was captain of Preservation Oak Ridge and the Ai Church,” Bair added. “We’re going to miss him.”

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Councilman Jim Kinneman said it was sometimes hard to tell whether Nodine was serious or kidding because regardless, he could keep a straight face. He shared a story about Nodine once telling him he had a twin brother named Dennis.

“He had me going for five or 10 minutes, and was serious and straight-faced,” Kinneman said.

“Finally, I realized he was pulling my leg. That was classic Doug, to tell me he had a twin brother.”

Amy Klug said Doug and his wife, Cathy, had been very welcoming when she and her husband purchased the Old Mill on N.C. 68 several years ago and became part of the community.

“I admired his dedication to Oak Ridge and the Ai Church,” she said.

“Two things about Doug,” said Mike Stone, who served with Nodine on the town’s Planning Board and the town council. “Doug loved Cathy with a passion. And, he was a statesman of Oak Ridge.”

Council member Martha Pittman described Nodine as a “man of few words” with a sharp wit and a lot of integrity.

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“Even when you were on differing sides of any discussion, he treated everyone with respect and you knew exactly where he was coming from,” she said, then added, “What I will most miss is that deep chuckle when he knew he had gotten the best of you.”

“Doug loved Oak Ridge and expressed it in so many different ways,” councilman Spencer Sullivan said. “We served together (on the council) four years, with me as

12

SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

mayor… Doug expressed himself in a very direct, precise manner. I once kidded him about being an old curmudgeon, and that brought on that smile.

“He always listened to what I had to say, and I reciprocated,” Sullivan said. “As a result, we had some interesting discussions, and they always ended on a positive note.”

Sullivan added that he appreciated Nodine’s help when, many years ago, the town was involved in a zoning dispute with a property owner.

“I was representing the town but needed another town council member,” Sullivan said. “I wanted Doug because I respected his opinions and negotiating skills. We were able to successfully resolve that issue. I consider it an honor to be sitting in his chair and I’m grateful I knew him.”

Councilman George McClellan said he and Nodine would discuss politics and sometimes disagree, but he always had a lot of respect for the man.

Describing Nodine as a “commonsense person,” Mayor Ann Schneider said, “He would surprise you sometimes with a gruff compliment. He enjoyed being unpredictable. I miss him in our Lions Club meetings, and here on the council.”

Cathy Nodine took the opportunity to express gratitude to all the local firefighters and other emergency responders who came to her and Doug’s home during his last months of illness.

“How wonderful these servants of our community are,” she said.

STOKESDALE TOWN COUNCIL ...continued from p. 11 50

to approve a $1,400 proposal by Hunter Enterprises for soccer field turf repairs and sod installation in the town park.

recoup the cost for these services and Jones said no, not even a fraction of this cost, so raising fees needs to be considered.

Hazen & Sawyer. Aaron Babson with Hazen & Sawyer was on hand to answer questions about his firm’s proposal to review plans and specifications and provide periodic inspection services for the water system’s permit applicants.

to approve $8,000 spending authority for services outlined in Hazen & Sawyer’s proposal for on-call engineering services for the Blacksmith subdivision and others, and inspections to ensure compliance with the town’s water line specifications.

Rigsbee asked if the town would

gems in

50

Grant funding. Councilman Derek

Hazen & Sawyer has had good success with helping clients receive grants for water infrastructure and sewer systems, Foy noted. As part of the application, an engineering study would be required, which Hazen & Sawyer could perform.

50

to approve an $8,000 proposal from Hazen & Sawyer to assist

with applying for a $400,000 grant.

50

(in two separate motions) to adopt a resolution to apply for an asset inventory grant and adopt a pre-construction planning grant, both through the Dept. of Water Infrastructure.

Emergency repairs. Jones said Gene Robertson with Yates Construction recently performed emergency repairs to a large sink hole in the town park after a sheriff’s deputy informed Jones and Mayor Crawford about it.

...continued on p. 47

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As an educator for over 20 years, Kara Winicki said she has always been a trusted advocate for students and their families.

OAK RIDGE “Meeting their needs required active listening, patience, hard work, organization – and of course, integContact us today at (336) 643-5501 rity,” she said. To gain as much knowledge as possible, she earned her and be on your way to healthy living. master’s degree from UNCG as well as You deserve it! her national board certification.

“As a Realtor, I strive to give supe1433 B (68 Place) - HWY 68 North, Oak Ridge, NC 27310 rior customer service and to go above and beyond when helping clients to buy or sell a home. This process can be fast (especially in the current market) and stressful, and communicating expectations and thinking outside the box at times is crucial to helping clients submit winning offers or sell their homes at the highest market price,” Kara said.

“Giving back to my community has always been a way of life for me, whether it’s been organizing fundraisers for pediatric cancer patients, holding book drives to provide children with books to read over the summer, or gathering food and presents for residents of Pathways, a local homeless shelter,” she added. “I bring this passion for service to my real estate clients when helping them navigate through one of the most stressful and important decisions in their lives – buying or selling their home.”

Recognizing that Greensboro and surrounding areas were great places to live and work, Kara and her family moved to the area 16 years ago.

“With roots in New York and Maryland, we have relocated several 14 SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022 The Northwest Observer •times Totally 1996job, which duelocal to mysince husband’s

enables me to relate to families in transition and know what is helpful and needed,” Kara said.

“People have entrusted their most precious gift – their children – to me for years, and you can be assured I will offer the same dedication, work ethic and expertise in guiding you through the home selling and buying process,” she added.

On a personal note: Kara and her husband, Ed, have two sons, Bobby (you may have seen the picture in the NWO of a huge fish he caught!) and Patrick (both graduates of NGHS), and a Labrador retriever, Sugar. When Kara isn’t working or volunteering, you can find her tending her garden and spending time with family and friends.

See ad on p. 21

5 Star Roofing & Restoration Shannon and Eddie Leiss, owners

Serving the community as a family In 2019, after working for another contractor, Shannon and Eddie Leiss decided to follow their passion and start 5 Star Roofing. Their goal was, and still is, to establish a reputation for five-star service, high integrity and trustworthiness.

5 Star Roofing offers roof replacements, roofing repairs, and roof rejuvenation, where the roof is cleaned and restored with oils, adding five years to the life of the shingles.

Shannon and Eddie, along with their dedicated team of quality people, strive to offer the highest level of customer service. Their business philosophy is to serve their community as a family with professionalism and integrity.

On a personal note: Shannon and Eddie have six children and six grandchildren. They have been members of Mercy Hill Church for six years, and Shannon volunteers weekly at The Pregnancy Network as a peer advocate.

In their spare time, Shannon and Eddie enjoy cooking and entertaining, spending time at the lake with family, and working on home projects.

Occasionally Eddie plays guitar and Shannon sings, just to relax and pass time at home. They also enjoy going to hear live music performances, which they admit is much easier on the ears than their home performances.

See ad on p. 46

Madison Flooring Ken Chambers, owner

“We do things right the first time” Madison Flooring is a relatively new business, but is employed by people with years of experience with flooring.

“We own a restoration company (ProCare Restoration) and flooring is used in almost every restoration job we do, so we thought, ‘why not open a flooring business?’” owner Ken Chambers said. “We were already very experienced in flooring/installation, so we felt it was a great time to expand.”

Madison Flooring offers luxury vinyl, carpet, laminate, hardwood and tile. The company is family-owned and operated by a father-and-daughter team with 20 years of construction experience.

“We do things right the first time, we stand by our work, and we offer a lifetime installation guarantee,” Ken said.

“We are also a part of Floor Covering Associates (FCA) Network, which is a very prestigious flooring group.”

On a personal note: Madison Flooring is named after Ken’s daughter, Madison. In his free time, Ken enjoys playing tennis.

See ad on p. 22

McLaurin Farms, LLC Business owners/managers: Eddie and Peggy McLaurin

“Helping you grow and create memories” McLaurin Farms is a family-owned small business, located on 53 acres, that provides the community with fun family events all year-round.

Eddie McLaurin is a North Carolina native, and his family has been on the land since 1940. His haunted attraction, Woods of Terror, has been in operation for over 31 years.

Eddie and his wife, Peggy, have recently been focusing on becoming more active in the community as they work to make McLaurin Farms a yearround destination.

“Our goal at McLaurin Farms is to take you back to a relaxed pace, a happy time, a few hours where you can leave the noise of life behind you and just be a family,” the couple said.

To help reach their goal, Eddie and Peggy are growing their family-friendly events in addition to the opening of their new Farm Market.

The Farm Market at McLaurin Farms is a general store open all yearround; there, customers can purchase ice cream and treats, pottery, plants, and indoor and outdoor gifts. The Farm also provides family-friendly community

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The Northwest Observer ... continued on p. 16 • Totally local since 1996

SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

15

Oak Ridge Heritage Day Saturday, Sept. 24 10am-4pm

Redmon Field at Oak Ridge Town Park (on Linville Road across from Scoggins Road)

NEW ADVERTISERS ...continued from p. 15 events including a Spring Fling, You Pick Flowers, Movies on the Farm, Summer Fun Festival, the Pumpkin Patch and the festive McLaurin Farms Country Christmas.

“Our business philosophy is giving back to others, and we value hard work and honesty. We don’t grow cattle or vegetables any longer, we grow and help create memories,” the couple said.

Honor Run, Oct. 15

• Food • Games & kids’ activities

Proceeds from the 5K and 1-mile fun run will go to the Veterans Honor Green

• Exhibits of household goods, farm items, tobacco equipment, etc.

• Blacksmithing & outdoor cooking demos • Meet our military vets • Displays – Fire Dept., Horse Show, town committees, civic groups, etc.

• Cannon firing at 11am, 1pm and 3pm • “Old Fashioned Pound Cake” contest with prizes (for rules, visit Town News under the Our Town tab at www.oakridgenc.com) • Characters in period dress • ALSO THIS YEAR – vendors selling arts & crafts, homemade items, foods, and vintage/antique/re-purposed items

A blast from the past!

For additional information, visit oakridgenc.com and click on the “Events” tab located under the Parks & Recreation header, or call town hall at 336-644-7009

SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

See ad on p. 3

BITS & PIECES

• Revolutionary & Civil War re-enactors with interactive displays

16

In their spare time, they love to visit White Lake, North Carolina, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, or Key West, Florida, for their vacations, which are usually taken in January after the Halloween and Christmas seasons at the farm.

On a personal note: Eddie and Peggy McLaurin recently celebrated their 10th anniversary, and they live on the farm with their farm dog, Nala, who is always happy to greet visitors.

Plans for this FREE event include: • Live music and clogging demonstrations

The McLaurins are active members with Reedy Fork Community Church located in Browns Summit.

The Northwest Observer

OAK RIDGE – For his Eagle Scout project, Nick Jamieson plans to honor veterans and their service to the community while raising money Nick Jamieson for the future Veterans Honor Green in Heritage Farm Park.

A Life Scout with Troop 600 in Oak Ridge, Nick is planning a 5K race and 1-mile family fun run/walk in Oak Ridge Town Park on Saturday, Oct. 15, that he hopes will attract participants of all ages.

Veterans and active military will be invited to participate, and there will be a short ceremony prior to the race to recognize and show support for local veterans.

“I hope you will consider supporting this great cause and my Eagle Scout •project, Totallyand local 1996 be asince part of something that

will hopefully become a permanent calendar fixture for many years to come,” Nick wrote in a letter seeking corporate sponsors.

The 5K will be professionally chiptimed, with results posted on-site and online in real-time and updated as participants cross the finish line. The family-oriented 1-mile run/walk will be untimed.

want to be a sponsor?

Five of the 10 corporate sponsorships are still available, at $400 each. To secure your sponsorship and be included on promotional materials and run/walk T-shirts, email jamiesonnc@gmail.com and pgjamieson@hotmail.com.

want to participate?

Register for the run/walk in Oak Ridge Town Park on Oct. 15, at 8:30 a.m., at: Runsignup.com/Race/ NC/OakRidge/5KHonorRunWalk.

20 Consumers find ways to combat inflation, supply shortages

center 18 Shopping approved near Northern Guilford High School

Illustration by Adobe Stock

Shopping center approved Planning Board recommended denying, but Guilford County commissioners unanimously voted to approve rezoning 31 acres at N.C. 150 and Spencer-Dixon Road for commercial use

by PATTI STOKES NORTHERN GREENSBORO – Greensboro-based First Acres, LLC, got a thumbs-up from the Guilford County Commissioners last month, paving the way to develop a 31-acre tract on N.C. 150 and Spencer-Dixon Road, near Northern Guilford Middle and High schools, for a shopping center.

Prior to the commissioners’ meeting on Aug. 4, the county’s Planning Board

had held a public hearing for the company’s rezoning request and voted to recommend denying it.

With the commissioners’ vote of approval, zoning on the property changes from AG, intended for agricultural operations and farm residences on large tracts of land, and RS-40, intended to accommodate single-family residential detached dwellings on minimum lot sizes of 40,000 square feet, to CZ-GB (conditional use – General Business).

The applicant placed several conditions on the CZ-GB zoning request, with several uses typically allowed in a GB zoning excluded. Still, a wide variety of commercial uses will be allowed according to terms of the new zoning, including general office, medical or professional office, a bank or finance company with a drive-through, retail, a garden center or nursery, bakery, restaurant, auto supply sales, auto

rental or leasing and a car wash.

Attorney Amanda Hodierne of Greensboro represented First Acres at two Planning Board meetings earlier this year and at the commissioners’ meeting on Aug. 4. A traffic engineer hired by the developer also presented a traffic study for the area.

A handful of neighboring property owners spoke in opposition to the rezoning request, focusing their opposition on traffic they said was already a concern in this area because of Northern Middle and High Schools, which are adjacent to the land First Acres hopes to develop.

Nicole Martin, a resident of SpencerDixon Road, said there are already discussions about bringing in mobile units to accommodate more students at Northern High School, which will add to an already growing traffic problem. Additionally, she said there were ample commercial

services within a few miles to accommodate the needs of residents in the area.

Another Spencer-Dixon resident who said he wanted to continue living in the country, not the city, echoed Martin’s statement that there were enough commercial conveniences within a 5-mile radius.

Prior to the commissioners holding a public hearing for the rezoning on Aug. 4, Martin circulated a petition in opposition to it that garnered over 700 signatures.

“We were so proud to see that over 700 families signed either this petition or the printed one for our voices to be heard,” Martin wrote on the online petition site the morning after the commissioners’ unanimous decision to approve the developer’s rezoning request. “It’s just a shame that the board decided in favor of supporting a local development firm vs. their constituents.”

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Consumers find ways to combat inflation, cope with supply shortages Readers weigh in on how they’re adapting to inflated prices and long waits for products and services Compiled by ANNETTE JOYCE Our country has been experiencing the highest rate of inflation in four decades, and prices on practically everything, from food to automobiles, have skyrocketed since pre-COVID days. While prices on some things, such as gasoline, have been dropping, they’re still higher than just a year ago, and there’s a likelihood they will rise again.

Supply shortages have created another challenge for consumers, as evidenced by empty spots throughout grocery stores and other retail establishments. When purchasing biggerticket items such as furniture and appliances, people are waiting longer, paying more, or in some cases, making alternate choices.

We recently asked some of our readers how they have been dealing with this economic landscape, and here’s how they responded…

Supply chain issues have caused Oak Ridge resident Phyllis Anders the most frustration. She requires a specific item on a regular basis, which has become increasingly more difficult to find.

“I’ve had to go to as many as five different grocery stores to find it,” she said.

While she’s not sure if it’s related to the current state of the economy, Anders also noted she’s found it much harder to make timely appointments with health care providers.

“You often have to wait weeks, and sometimes months, for an available appointment,” she said.

“I’ve learned to grit my teeth a lot more,” said Stokesdale resident Steven Smith. Adopting a matter-of-fact view, he said that issues like inflation and supply chain shortages aren’t something an individual can control, so just dealing with them and trying to

keep moving is the approach he takes.

For the past three years, Smith and his family have been working on transforming a 10-acre wooded tract into a horse farm. It’s been slow going, not necessarily because of the economy, but because the person doing the construction has been flooded with business.

Although costs have risen, the Smiths decided to move forward with their plans rather than wait to see what the future holds. It’s a dream they’ve had for years, and they’re excited about seeing it come to fruition.

“We’re willing to do what we have to do to make this happen,” he said.

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Even so, increasing prices have been a factor in delaying other major purchases. For instance, Smith said his wife and daughter travel a lot to horse shows and they had planned to buy a new truck to pull their horse trailer; for now, at least, they’ve decided to forgo that purchase.

resident, cutting costs in small ways have added up to some decent savings and is making trips more affordable.

Looking beyond his own situation, Smith offered a show of support to “our farmers, truckers and heavy equipment operators” who are dealing with sky-high diesel prices.

As gas prices started rising, Joyce signed up for a gas discount program with a specific fuel brand.

He later obtained the company’s credit card when he found he could receive double the discount on card purchases. Plus, the company offers cardholders promotions on a regular basis, with some resulting in as much as a $1-per-gallon discount.

“Inflation has definitely affected them and is seemingly missed in the inflation/fuel conversations,” he said.

Hotel loyalty programs have also been a sure-fire way to save money and earn free stays.

A while back, Oak Ridge resident Martha Pittman was putting together supplies for a family reunion that included 75 people. When she and her sister went shopping, finding the items they wanted in local stores was nearly impossible.

“We went from store to store looking for supplies and we finally had to go online,” Pittman said. “I want to support our local stores, but because there are so many empty spaces on the shelves, I’m not able to do that as much as I would like.

“The selection in the stores is poorer than it used to be,” she added, noting that this dilemma creates a vicious cycle in that stores don’t reorder what isn’t being purchased, but it can’t be purchased if it isn’t there in the first place.

Spurred by an interest in traveling more after retirement, Kelly Joyce had already been looking at ways to save money on future trips before inflation reared its ugly head. For this Stokesdale

“I selected one chain which not only helps with cost-cutting but gives me the assurance that I know what to expect when I check in,” Joyce said.

He added that the loyalty programs offer additional benefits, such as policies that don’t charge extra fees for cancelling.

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Joyce said there are many other discounts that, when used regularly, can make a substantial difference.

“Military discounts, AAA and AARP are only a sample,” he said. “It’s a good idea to check for discounts when you’re making travel plans, since there can be a big difference in the rates.”

“I used to run to the grocery store two or three times a week and didn’t think much about what I was buying,” said Vickie Jones, who lives on a fixed income. “Now, I don’t go as often, and I find myself looking for more bargains and looking at store brands.”

Because of high gas prices, the Summerfield resident has put a halt to most of her trips, and consolidates whenever possible.

“I’ve just stopped going anywhere except for church,” she said. “Very rarely, I’ll go out to eat and I don’t

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

21

CONSUMERS FIND WAYS TO COMBAT INFLATION, SUPPY SHORTAGES mow the yard as frequently. Buying gas is just too expensive.”

Rising costs have given Oak Ridge resident Bill Edwards reason to take a closer look at his expenses.

For instance, Edwards and his wife shortened their recent Canadian vacation by a week because of the extra costs involved.

In addition, they’ve pushed major purchases into the future.

“We have slow-walked a major house remodeling project due to significantly inflated costs,” Edwards said. “I also have deferred replacing my 19-year-old Chevy Tahoe until it reaches at least 300,000 miles. I have yet to decide between buying new versus pre-owned, as prices for both have risen precipitously.”

In another effort to stay ahead

of inflation, the couple eats out less frequently.

“Inflated prices also play a role in the restaurant of choice, although our tipping has actually increased to help restaurant staff during uncertain times,” he said.

Dining out less often is also a strategy that Val Kepley of Oak Ridge is employing to deal with higher prices.

While that helps, Kepley realized that lots of money can be wasted at the grocery store without a plan on how the food will be used.

With that in mind, Kepley found an app that helps her put together a week’s worth of menus. Checking to

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see what’s on hand, especially what’s stored in the freezer, helps to form the basis of her meals and eliminates the possibility of purchasing unneeded duplicates.

Stokesdale resident Robin Priddy has adjusted her shopping habits to help offset the higher costs.

“For clothing and accessories, I head straight for the clearance racks,” she said. “To save on gas, I only purchase where I can use loyalty and discount cards.

“I’m also using Amazon on everyday essential items to keep from going store to store searching for them,” she added.

“This has also helped due to the emptiness of shelves.”

A self-proclaimed homebody, Summerfield resident Kelly Young hasn’t been affected too much by higher gas prices.

“We don’t travel or take vacations,” he said. “We like staying close to home.”

Young and his wife, Nancy, haven’t been able to avoid taking a big hit at the grocery store, however. He said that before prices began to rise, they were paying between $60 and $70 for a few bags of groceries. These days, those same groceries are running about $100 to $120.

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Rather than pay the higher prices, the couple has switched to shopping at Aldi, a discount supermarket. While they still pick up certain items at the local grocery store, Young said their grocery bill has been cut nearly in half.

“It really does make a difference,” he said.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Adobe Stock photo

Oak Ridge resident Danielle Gram said her family’s most significant change is related to how they shop.

“Even though toilet paper and paper towels have returned to store shelves, the most random things are hard to find or have disappeared,” she said. “We often have to search more than one store to finish a recipe. And eating fast food has become as expensive as a sit-down restaurant used to be.

“Also, due to the increased price of airline tickets and the unreliability of flights, we changed our vacation plans to drive instead of fly.”

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After much deliberation, the partners recently decided it was time to make a change and let the next generation take the lead. With that in mind, Johnson & Lee is being dissolved and replaced by two separate companies – CJ Builders, Inc. and J Rick Lee Construction, LLC.

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As Commie Johnson is stepping back to pursue other endeavors, Casey is stepping forward and will be at the helm of CJ Builders, where he looks to further expand the scope of his business.

Commie (left) and Casey Johnson of CJ Builders.

When father-and-son teams Commie and Casey Johnson and Rick and Mike Lee joined forces in 2005 to create Johnson & Lee, LLC, they combined two powerhouses in commercial and residential building.

For more than 17 years, these local residents – the Johnsons live in Stokesdale and the Lees live in Oak Ridge – have built numerous homes and commercial structures in a variety of price ranges while developing a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship, attention to detail and a commitment to going to whatever lengths were necessary to give their clients exactly what they wanted.

“We’ll still be building high-quality homes, but I’m also focusing on developing new communities in the northwest area,” Casey said, noting that Commie will handle bookkeeping for the new company.

Rick and Mike Lee are returning to their roots with the original company that Rick started, J Rick Lee Construction, LLC. Rick has been in the building industry since 1969, but prior to that helped his dad build houses. He and Mike have been working to-

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Both companies are built on a solid foundation of knowledge and hands-on experience that’s been acquired over a period of decades, combined with well-earned trust and integrity.

As the four builders look to the future, they remain firmly committed to finishing the Johnson & Lee projects already underway.

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

Mike (left) and Rick Lee of J Rick Lee Construction.

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members and citizens was formed.

Public meetings, focus groups and surveys have subsequently been used to gain citizen input; during this time the committee has worked with representatives of Piedmont Triad Regional Council to develop a long-range plan that will provide Town leaders with a new road map for land use and development decision-making.

The plan identifies areas in the corporate limits of Summerfield that are likely to receive growth (“primary growth” areas), could receive growth (“secondary growth” or “limited potential” areas), or should be discouraged from growth (“rural conservation corridors”) to help best determine recommendations for future land use.

A draft Land Use Plan and supporting documents can be viewed online at www.summerfieldnc.gov; click on “About” at the top of the homepage, then “Projects,” then “Land Use Plan.”

want to go?

The joint meeting of the Summerfield Town Council and Planning Board

on Monday, Sept. 26, will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Summerfield Charter Academy gym, 5303 US-220 N.

Also coming up…

Because the Planning Board has other pressing business, it will have another meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 7 p.m., at Summerfield Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road. Two topics will be covered at that meeting: 1) an applicant request for a subdivision waiver related to a proposed development between Elmhurst Estates and Angels Landing; and 2) discussion of Planning Board rules in light of an upcoming text amendment case.

The first topic doesn’t require a public hearing, although the town will notify Elmhurst residents as a courtesy because of a proposed emergency access through their neighborhood. The second topic will involve a hearing at a later date and prior to a recommendation.

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In 1982, President Ronald Reagan declared September “National Sewing Month” in “rec“rec ognition of the importance of home sewing in our nation.” Take the quiz below to test your knowledge of the history of sewing in the United States. (Check your answers on pg. 45)

1. Zippers were first sewn on what article of clothing?

A. B. C. D.

jackets shoes pants shirts

2. What were the first sewing needles made of?

A. tree branches B. metal C. animal bones D. rock 3. Which of the following is not a type of sewing machine stitch?

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HOWERTON

...continued from p. 1 were growing up and leaving home. They weren’t interested in operating the family farms,” he stated in an article published in the Northwest Observer in 2013.

Before serving on the town council, Howerton had retired from Lorillard Tobacco Company and volunteered extensively in the community.

Years ago, when individual schools had their own school boards, he served as chairman of Oak Ridge Elementary’s school board. When those boards later evolved into advisory councils, Howerton served on the advisory council at Northwest High School.

He has been a longtime member of Central Baptist in Oak Ridge, where he was treasurer for 25 years and served as chairman of the finance committee. He has also taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, was involved with the Servant Bible Institute and participated in various other church activities.

Howerton saw many changes in Oak Ridge during his 15 years on the council, and he said he was most proud of the way in which the town developed.

“The development of Oak Ridge has been done in a fashion that makes the town council, all volunteers and the patrons of Oak Ridge proud,” he said in the 2013 article. “Our success can be seen in the number of people wanting to locate and live here.”

The town park is another accomplishment that Howerton highlighted.

“It’s been a great addition to Oak Ridge and fills the needs for people of all ages, from the oldest adult who comes to the walking track to the youngest child who plays on the playground and ball fields,” he said.

After announcing in July 2013 that he would not seek another term on the council, Howerton said, “I feel I’ve given a good part of my better years to the Town of Oak Ridge. As I look back, I’m proud of it.”

At the Sept. 1 council meeting, council member Spencer Sullivan thanked Howerton for being a friend as well as “the one who had the vision for a municipal water system for this town.” While a lot of people helped along the way, Sullivan said it was because of Howerton’s

efforts in the town’s earliest years that it was finally in the beginning stages of having a water system.

Councilwoman Martha Pittman said she is amazed at how Howerton continues to be “active and involved and engaged in all matters Oak Ridge,” and added her thanks for his lifetime of service to others and his friendship to her over the last three years.

Longtime town council member Jim Kinneman said after moving to Oak Ridge in 2000 and attending town council meetings, he quickly discovered that Howerton had strong convictions, but kept an open mind.

“I saw there were many times when he felt one way, but after getting the facts and hearing different viewpoints, he would change his mind,” Kinneman said, noting one such time was when the town council was discussing whether to allow smoking in the park.

“I know Roger has a background that you would think he would go one way, and I could tell he was struggling with it,” Kinneman said. “But when he listened to different points of view, he voted to not allow smoking in the park… That impressed me that he was so open to different points of view.”

“I could see Roger’s mind constantly working up there on the council, and until he actually voted, he was thinking about what was the right thing to do,” he added.

“Roger is everywhere,” Councilman George McClellan said. “If you ever want to know about what a public servant is, it is Roger. He shows up at veterans’ events, Heritage Day, and I’ve seen him at Music in the Park.”

To Howerton, he said, “I’ve been a big fan of yours…You’ve been one heck of a role model.”

Schneider said Howerton served the community selflessly during his 15 years on the town council.

“We would not be the town that we are without all of the thought and deliberation that you (Howerton) and other council members put into creating our town park, and creating the building (Town Hall) we’re meeting in tonight,” she said to Howerton. “Not to mention the policies and strategies that have set the stage for every accomplishment that Oak Ridge has had in the past almost 25 The Northwest Observer years…You’re the epitome of leadership.”

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Oct. 1, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Stokesdale United Methodist Church, 8305 Loyola Drive. To display your equipment, email friendsofstokesdale@gmail.com or call (336) 552-0704. See ad on p. 32.

calendar

 “Community Table” | Triad Local First, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting local, independently-owned businesses, will host its 11th annual “Community Table” fundraiser dinner on Sunday, Oct. 9, 4:30 to 9 p.m. at Summerfield Farms, 3203 Pleasant Ridge Road. Hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and mingling start at 4:30 p.m. and a five-course dinner starts at 6 p.m.

There will also be live music, an open bar and more.

Purchase tickets online by Sept. 25 and learn more at www.triadlocalfirst.org.

REGISTER NOW

 Last call for golfers! | Oak Ridge Lions Club invites golfers to participate in its 26th annual Tom Brown memorial golf tournament on Thursday, Sept. 29, at Greensboro National Golf Club, 330 Niblick Drive in Summerfield. Check-in will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. For more info or to register, email rfloss@aol.com or contact Frank Kelleher at (336) 327-7786 or frankxk95@gmail.com. See ad on p. 33.

EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY

 She ROCKS fundraiser | She ROCKS, a nonprofit

 Farmers markets | Stokesdale Farmers Market, held at Stokesdale United Methodist Church, 8305 Loyola Drive, is open Tuesdays, 4 to 7 p.m. (through Oct. 25) and Oak Ridge Farmers Market, held at Oak Ridge Military Academy, 2317 Oak Ridge Road, is open Thursdays from 4 p.m. to dusk (through Oct. 27).

that brings awareness to and helps patients getting treatment for ovarian cancer, will host its fifth annual Triad dinner Friday, Sept. 30, starting at 6 p.m. at Summerfield Farms, 3203 Pleasant Ridge Road. Dinner and drinks will be catered by 1618, with a dance party afterwards. Purchase tickets at www.she-rocks.org/triad. More info: (336) 866-0003.

EVERY SUNDAY & WEDNESDAY

 Stop, Drop and Roll 5K | Summerfield Fire District

will host its 6th annual Stop, Drop and Roll 5K walk/ run fundraiser and the popular Sparky’s Dash for kids on Saturday, Oct. 1, at Summerfield Fire Department, 7400 Summerfield Road. Sparky’s Dash begins at 8:45 a.m. and the 5K begins at 9 a.m. 5K participants will receive a finisher’s medal and a T-shirt. All participants can enjoy refreshments and a free bowl of chili after the race. Register at runsignup.com/Race/NC/ Summerfield/StopDropandRoll5K. More info: See ad on opposite page.  “Farmers’ Day” | Show off your farm equipment

 Awana Clubs | Central Baptist Church at

1715 N.C. 68 N in Oak Ridge is hosting Awana Clubs, Bible-centered youth organizations, every Sunday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. for kids ages 2 through high school. Call (336) 643-7684 or visit www.oakridgecbc.org to learn more. Liberty Wesleyan Church at 15303 U.S. 158 in Summerfield will also host Awana Clubs every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. for kids ages 3 through 6th grade. Pre-register at www.libertywesleyan.com/awanas.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 16

and share your knowledge of Stokesdale’s farming his-  Fall dance | Friends of Stokesdale invites the comtory with others in the community at Farmers’ Day, an munity to its first annual fall social/dance Sept. 16, event sponsored by Friends of Stokesdale on Saturday, from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Longhouse, 260 Christopher

Road in Stokesdale. Music will be provided by George Dunn a.k.a. “Jammin’ G,” and there will be heavy hors d’oeuvres, soft drinks and a silent auction for gifts and services from area merchants. Tickets are $20/person or $30/couple. More info: Joe Thacker at (336) 708-0334, or James Rosa, Jr. at (336) 457-6225. See ad on p. 4.  Movie in the Park | Town of Summerfield will host a free Movie in the Park event featuring Disney’s “Up” on Sept. 16 at Summerfield Community Park Amphitheater, 5404 Centerfield Road. Gates open at 6:45 p.m. and dancers from Bella Ballerina Greensboro will perform at 7 p.m. The movie begins at 7:45 p.m. (dusk). Summerfield First Baptist Church will provide free popcorn and Kona Ice will be onsite selling shaved ice. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on.

SEPT. 16 & SEPT. 17  Kids’ consignment sale | St. Paul the Apostle

Catholic Church at 2715 Horse Pen Creek Road in northwest Greensboro will host a consignment sale with kids’ clothes on Friday, Sept. 16, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 17, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Some clothes on Saturday will be 50% off. More info: www.saintpaulskidssale.com.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 17  E-cycle/recycle event | Town of Summerfield will host a free residential e-cycling and recycling event on Sept. 17, 8 a.m. to 12 noon at Laughlin Professional Development Center, 7911 Summerfield Road. Materials accepted are tires, large appliances, electronics and up to five boxes of personal documents for shredding (no business waste will be accepted). More info: (336) 641-3792 or (336) 643-8655. See ad on p. 14.  Blood drive & mammography screening | Shady Grove Wesleyan Church at 119 N. Bunker Hill Road in Colfax will host a blood drive Sept. 17, 9 a.m. to

...continued on p. 32

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR ...continued from p. 30

Farmers’ Day Food, fun, music and games for the entire family!

Saturday, October 1 9am - 4pm

Stokesdale United Methodist Church DISPLAY YOUR FARM EQUIPMENT Friends of Stokesdale invites you to display your farm equipment and share your knowledge of Stokesdale’s farming history with the community. (Equipment on tracks or hard-spiked wheels that may damage the turf will have to be trailered.)

Owners of small items used in the early 1900s are invited to bring them for display!

To display your equipment, please contact Friends of Stokesdale at friendsofstokesdale@gmail.com or (336) 552-0704.

LITTLE MR. & MISS FARMERS’ DAY CONTEST In conjunction with the Friends of Stokesdale Farmers’ Day Event, there will be a 2022 Little Mr. & Miss Farmers’ Day Contest open to children ages infant through 5 years old. Contest is open to the first 20 applicants.

There will be two male and two female winners. Winners will receive a trophy, have their picture taken and have a place to ride on the Friends of Stokesdale float in the Stokesdale Christmas Parade. Visit friendsofstokesdale.org for an entry form.

Friends of Stokesdale is a non-profit community improvement corporation comprised of dedicated citizens who want to keep a vibrant town core, connect our past to our present, and carry it into Stokesdale's future.

32

SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

3 p.m. To register, text “Blood” to (336) 525-5870. Also, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, women may come for mammography screenings. All major insurance will be accepted. To register, text “Mamm” to (336) 525-5870.

More info: (336) 337-3219 or dwhetstone@touchpath.com.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 23  “Casino Night” | Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network, a Stokesdalebased nonprofit that fosters animals while finding them permanent homes, will host its first annual Casino Night on Sept. 23, 7 to 10 p.m. at Elm & Bain, 620B South Elm Street in downtown Greensboro. There will be games, a scavenger hunt, appetizers and more.

Visit www.bidpal.net/rdfcasinonight for more info or to purchase tickets.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 24  Fall bazaar | Liberty Wesleyan Church at 15303 U.S. 158 in Summerfield will host a fall bazaar Sept. 24, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be crafts, vendors, a silent auction, a bake sale, breakfast and lunch. More info: (336) 643-6968 or libertywesleyan@bellsouth.net.  Heritage Day | Town of Oak Ridge

will host its annual Heritage Day on Saturday, Sept. 24, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Redmon Field at Oak Ridge Town Park, corner of Linville Road and Lisa Drive (enter Redmon Field off Linville Road, across from Scoggins Road). This free event will include Revolutionary and Civil War reenactors with interactive displays, live music and clogging demonstrations, food, games, other displays and activities and much more. There will also be an “Old Fashioned Pound Cake” baking contest with gift cards for the winners.

Visit www.oakridgenc.com for contest rules and entry forms, and for more info about Heritage Day. See ad on p. 16.  Food pantry | Good Samaritan Ministries’ food pantry in Stokesdale will open for those in need of food on

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Sept. 24, 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Stokesdale Business Center, 8500 Ellisboro Road. To receive assistance or to make a donation to the ministry, contact Terri Johnson, (336) 643-5887 or terrij1957@yahoo.com.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 25  Community Fun Day | Gideon Grove United Methodist Church at 2865 Gideon Grove Church Road in Stokesdale will host a community fun day on Sept. 25, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a bounce house, corn hole, hot dogs on the fire pit, crafts and games, live music (including Hubert Lawson & The Bluegrass Country Boys), door prizes and more. More info: (336) 643-6042.

MONDAY, SEPT. 26  Lions Club | Oak Ridge Lions Club will meet Sept. 26 at the Oak Ridge Room, 2205 Oak Ridge Road (next to Bistro 150). Come at 6 p.m. to socialize and order dinner or a beverage if you would like; the business meeting runs from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. More info: Frank Kelleher, president, (336) 327-7786 or frankxk95@gmail.com.  Special-called meeting | Summer-

field Town Council and Planning Board members will hold a special-called joint meeting to present the Summerfield Vision 2040 Land Use Plan on Sept. 26, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Summerfield Charter Academy, 5303 U.S. 220 N. More info: Visit www.summerfieldnc.gov to view the draft plan and supporting documents, and see related article on p. 3 of this issue.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 28  Preservation Oak Ridge meeting |

Preservation Oak Ridge, a nonprofit committed to preserving historic structures in Oak Ridge, will meet Sept. 28, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Historic Ai Church, 1306 N.C. 68 N in Oak Ridge.

More info: www.preserveoakridge.org or call (336) 644-1777.

26th Annual

Oak Ridge

Tom Brown Memorial Golf Tournament Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022 Greensboro National Golf Club

Registration 11:30am - 1pm | Shotgun start 1:30pm Proceeds to benefit local seeing and hearing impaired, environment and hunger initiatives

Last call!

Register by Sept. 22!

4-Player Scramble $100 per player Includes lunch ● drinks ● snacks 2 beers per player ● dinner Contests include: putting longest drive ● longest putt closest to the pin ● hole-in-one

Interested? Email Randy... Rfloss@aol.com

Serving our community! Building civic pride!

Special thanks to the

Detective warns citizens about vehicle, home break-ins Det. Ryan Seals submitted a report to be read at Summerfield Town Council’s Sept. 13 meeting, and in it he wrote the sheriff’s department has recently responded to several motor vehicle break-ins at area parks and trailheads throughout northwest Guilford County. He noted that several of the incidents occurred at the trail parking lot at 6900 U.S. 220 in Summerfield and at the Anna Long Marshall Wayside parking lot on 4310 U.S. 220.

“These all involved windows being smashed, purses being stolen and stolen credit cards being used before the victim realized they were targeted,” Seals wrote. “We are asking residents to please not leave valuables in their vehicles when visiting area parks/ trails, and only take with them the bare necessities.”

Seals added that earlier this

month there were multiple reports of suspects pulling on car doors and a garage door on Somersby Drive (in the Somerset subdivision) off N.C. 150 in Summerfield.

“We had the same issue last year on Somersby Drive and in the Vineyards,” Seals wrote.

He advised residents to ensure the doors to their homes and garages are locked up overnight.

To stay informed about crimerelated incidents in the area, Seals encouraged citizens to follow the sheriff’s department on NextDoor.com and ring.com/neighbors. Both are free, and the department uses the sites to post information and ask for assistance in addressing matters in the community as they arise. You do not have to have the Ring device to subscribe to Neighbors by Ring on ring.com, Seals pointed out.

District 1 Sheriff’s Office

7504 Summerfield Road Main number: (336) 641-2300 Report non-emergency crime-related incidents by calling:

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SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

CRIME / INCIDENT report

District 1 Sheriff’s Office

has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest/northern Guilford County ...

ASSAULT/DOMESTIC INCIDENT Aug. 29 | Law enforcement officers responded to a domestic dispute in the 2400 block of Pleasant Ridge Road in Summerfield.

Aug. 30 | Officers responded to a report of an assault and the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle in the 5000 block of Shoreline Drive in northwest Greensboro (off Lewiston Road).

Sept. 2 | Officers responded to a report of a family disorder in the 6900 block of Maynard Road (Hillsdale Lake subdivision) near Strawberry Road in Summerfield.

Sept. 3 | Officers responded to a report of a domestic incident involving a physical altercation in the 8600 block of Lathans Trail (Parkers View at Bethel Ridge subdivision) in Oak Ridge.

Sept. 11 | Officers responded to an assault incident in the 8600 block of Haw River Road in Oak Ridge; a 52-year-old female was subsequently cited for larceny of property.

BURGLARY Sept. 7 | A resident of the 8400 block of Oakchester Court (Linville Oaks subdivision) in Oak Ridge reported an unknown suspect ransacked her vehicle but didn’t steal anything.

Sept. 8 | Officers responded to a report of a burglary involving a masked suspect wearing a hoodie in the 7400 block of Somersby Drive (Somerset subdivision) off N.C. 150W in Summerfield.

DEATH INVESTIGATION Aug. 30 | Officers conducted a death investigation in the 5400 block of

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Union Grove Road in Oak Ridge (off N.C. 150W).

Sept. 11 | Officers conducted a death investigation in the 6500 block of U.S. 158 in Summerfield.

FELON POSSESSING FIREARM Sept. 8 | A 31-year-old male was arrested in the 200 block of Marshall Smith Road in Colfax (near West Market Street) for possessing a firearm as a felon.

THEFT Aug. 29 | A resident of the 7700 block of Alcorn Road in Oak Ridge reported that between Aug. 26 and Aug. 29 an unknown suspect stole her gray/green 2021 Honda Rubicon ATV. Aug. 29 | An employee of Verizon Wireless in Oak Ridge reported an unknown suspect shoplifted an Apple iPhone 13 worth $1,210.

Aug. 31 | An employee of RV One Superstores – Greensboro reported that between Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. and Aug. 31 at 10 a.m. an unknown suspect stole four catalytic converters from vehicles parked there; the converters were valued at $8,000 altogether.

Aug. 31 | An 18-year-old female was arrested for larceny of a firearm and larceny of a motor vehicle in the 3200 block of Sandy Ridge Road in Colfax.

Aug. 31 | A citizen at Richardson Taylor Preserve on Plainfield Road in northern Greensboro reported that between 4:15 and 6:04 p.m. an unknown suspect broke into her vehicle by smashing a window and stole a black BROOKS backpack worth $50.

...continued on p. 39

Youth

welcome to ...

Sync A regular section in the Northwest Observer focused on our local youth and the adults who positively impact them.

The seasons are changing!

Healthy Smiles. Happy Patients.

Quality dental care for the entire family!

Now is a good time to change your toothbrush. We recommend you change it every three months!

Now in TWO LOCATIONS Main Office: 6161-A Lake Brandt Rd. | 336.643.1440 ● NEW Office (next to CVS): 7092 Summerfield Rd., Ste. C | 336.441.8055

Northern Guilford Spirit Week, Homecoming Northern Guilford High School will crown its homecoming queen during halftime of the homecoming football game against Ragsdale this Friday, Sept. 16. Members of the homecoming court are:

Kalaura Jones, 10th grade Paige Trogdon, 11th grade Audrey Wrinkle, 11th grade Kyleigh Comer, 11th grade Thehara Perera, 12th grade

Lily Smith, 9th grade

Meghan Maynard, 12th grade

Helena Goddard, 9th grade

Neviah Pleasant, 12th grade

Magnolia Lord, 10th grade

Reese Robinson, 12th grade

 Northern Guilford High School students dress up for “Jetlag Day” on Tuesday, Sept. 13, as part of Spirit Week. The theme for this year’s Spirit Week is “Around the World,” with Monday being “America;” Tuesday, “Jetlag;” Wednesday, “worldwide;” Thursday, “tourist;” and Friday, “fly back to the nest.” The week will culminate with the homecoming football game against Ragsdale on Friday, Sept. 16, and crowning of the homecoming queen at halftime.

NWHS to create Athletics Hall of Fame

by PATTI STOKES

NW GUILFORD – Northwest Guilford High School Athletics Department wants to honor deserving athletes, coaches and others who have had significant achievements and made contributions to the school’s athletics department.

Under the direction of the school’s athletics director, Jason Allred, a board was recently formed to create an Athletics Hall of Fame. Board members consist of Allred, principal Ashley Young and assistant principal John Hughes (the school’s former athletics director); coach Ron Bare and former

coaches Darlene Joyner and Sandy Gann; community members with tie-ins to NWHS athletics, including Ralph Kitley, Tim Frazier, Vernon McHam and Charlies Groves; and Patti Stokes, editor/owner of the Northwest Observer.

Photo courtesy of Joan Baer, Northern Guilford Student Council adviser

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The Northwest ...continuedObserver on p. 47 • Totally local since 1996 VISIT ORYA.ORG TO REGISTER

SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

35

2022 Oak Ridge Town Park | Sept. 8,9

Record-setting crowds on Thursday and Friday evenings; Saturday activities cancelled due to weather

by PATTI STOKES OAK RIDGE – The weather was beautiful last Thursday and Friday evenings, and record crowds came to Oak Ridge Town Park to enjoy the 14th annual RidgeFest, an event held in partnership with Merchants of Oak Ridge (MOR) and the Town of Oak Ridge. According to MOR member/volunteer Randy Floss, who has organized the event the last 14 years, ticket sales for carnival rides on Thursday evening were almost 50% more than on Thursday of last year’s RidgeFest. That number soared on Friday evening, when sales almost doubled what they were on the Friday of RidgeFest 2021.

Unfortunately, the weather forecast for Saturday called for rain all day and through the evening, and all activities for what was to be the final day of RidgeFest were cancelled – including the fireworks show.

Floss said the crowds on Thursday and Friday evenings – and especially Friday – presented a great problem. On the one hand, it was rewarding to see so many kids and families drawn to the park to enjoy food, music, rides and a sense of community.

The lines for food and rides on Thursday were expected and very manageable, he said.

The long lines on Friday, however, presented challenges.

“Most people didn’t arrive until after 6 or 6:30 p.m., and the rides were only open until 9:30 p.m., so that only gave us a window of three hours,” Floss noted. “We had added two more carnival rides, and some of the rides held a lot more people than before. Still, the

lines were really long. I think a lot more people came on Friday because they thought, ‘Hey, it’s going to rain on Saturday, so we better go tonight.’

“I’ve never seen the lines for buying (allnight ride) passes like that,” he added. “I felt bad, because I’m thinking, ‘I increased the Younger kids especially loved this ride that space (between rides) and we added two more allowed them to be in the driver’s seat. rides…’ The volume of people on Friday night was so intense that there just wasn’t any way we could catch up.”

Floss also had more volunteers helping with parking this year, which was a good thing because on Friday evening the grassy field Stokesdale resident designated for parking was almost overflowing.

Tom Macherosky enjoyed sharing While at the park Saturday morning helping stories of his ’67 take things down before the rain set in, Floss’s Corvette at Friday mind was already whirling with ideas for how evening’s cruise-in, to better accommodate the crowds at next which drew owners year’s RidgeFest. Maybe he’ll see if the amuseof classic cars from ment company can add even more carnival far and wide. rides… and some “really cool” businesssponsored kids’ activities, possibly on the football field where there’s room to spread out… and it could be time to consider satellite parking with shuttle buses…

“It’s a great event, and in many years, we’ve just made a few tweaks and adjustments,” he said. “Now, I think it’s time to reassess and make some bigger changes.”

Oak Ridge firefighter Brad Hill was all Writer’s note: regarding the fireworks that s when he were cancelled Saturday night because of the smile finally got his funnel weather, the Town of Oak Ridge hopes to tie cake after a long them in with another community event later wait in line Friday this year. evening.

Youth Sync

Summerfield Stars AAA major at USSSA Elite World Series Local team plays on national level SUMMERFIELD, NC/FLORIDA – This past July, a group of hardworking young baseball players from in and around Summerfield traveled to Space Coast Sports Complex in Viera, Florida, with high hopes of bringing home a national championship. While there, Summerfield Stars AAA, a 13U all-star travel team under the direction of Summerfield Recreation Association, took on – and took down – teams from Texas, Florida, Colorado and even a tough team from their home state of North Carolina.

Photo courtesy of David Lorczak

Summerfield Stars AAA team members stand with their championship banner this summer after being ranked first in North Carolina, first in the Southeast, and third in the nation. Team members are: Levi Ponder, Nathanael Lorczak, Simeon Moore, Caleb Hinnant, Cooper Kidder, Quentin Joyner, Trace Jones, Riley Gladwell, Mason Skelding, Grayson Shelton, Alex Broyle. The team is coached by Gooch Gladwell, David Lorczak, Demetrius Ponder, Boonie Hairston and Cecilia Lorczak.

While most teams they faced had 14 – or more – players, the Stars team had 11. Facing temperatures that felt like

email

they were in the low 100s, this team of scrappers battled the elements and made it to the USSSA Elite World Series championship game. After having to play an extra game before that, the boys ran out of steam and ended up finishing in second place after falling to a great team from Florida.

“What an incredible accomplishment!” said Ana Lorczak, the mother of team member Nathanael Lorczak. “They earned the respect of all the doubters and national coaches who acknowledged the accomplishments of these little grinders from a small town in North Carolina.”

your youth news to:

communitynews@nwobserver.com

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Beginning September 18 ● Sunday evenings 5:30 - 7 pm Reaching boys and girls with the Gospel of Christ and training them to serve Him Programs for ages 2 thru high school

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37

Youth Sync

PTO seeks donor or donations for paving pathway, basketball court STOKESDALE – Stokesdale Elementary PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) had an unmet goal last year that was carried over to this one: find a donor – or raise funds – to pay for paving a pathway leading up to a wheelchair accessible swing in the playground. The PTO purchased the swing last year for a third-grade student and temporarily covered the grassy path leading up to it with mulch.

The mulch eventually washed away, so the PTO came up with another temporary solution, which was to put down plywood. What was intended as another short-term fix has now been in place for several months. If the pathway is paved, it will enable the now-fourthgrade student’s wheelchair to easily and safely be rolled right up to the swing.

Additionally, the PTO invested in

purchasing two “very nice” basketball goals, with the hopes the school could secure funding to pave a basketball half-court. The funding unfortunately hasn’t come through, and the basketball goals are still sitting in the delivery boxes, waiting to be installed.

The PTO has funds in its account, but most of what was carried over from last year will be used to pay for $25,000 of K-2 playground equipment ordered this summer; it’s scheduled to arrive in the coming weeks. It was a big expense for the PTO to take on, but Sarah Turner, the organization’s president, said the PTO board felt it was needed, and with no funding for school improvements coming from Guilford County Schools in the foreseeable future, they decided to move forward.

“Our playground is just sad,” Turner

Photo courtesy of Stokesdale Elementary PTO

As a temporary remedy last year, plywood was placed on the pathway leading to a wheelchair-accessible swing the PTO purchased for a student. The PTO is now hoping to either find a company willing to pave the pathway, or raise funds to cover the cost of paving it as well as a basketball half-court. said. “We wanted to spruce it up and get two playground systems, one for younger kids and one for older ones.”

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The Northwest Observer

“The biggest thing we spend money on is facilities support,” Turner noted.

“Our school is No. 19 on the next set of bonds, but we have needs like playgrounds with drainage issues and a gym with no air conditioning.”

Turner is hoping a local paving company will offer to pave both the pathway to the wheelchair-accessible swing and the basketball court – or, if not, that individuals and businesses •within Totally sincewill 1996 the local community donate funds

to cover the cost. That way, the PTO will be able to use funds raised in the coming months to support many of the programs and projects it has supported in the past, such as beautification of school grounds, teacher grants, special project grants, support for students in need, and staff appreciation/teacher support.

want to help?

For more info or to make a donation for paving the basketball half-court and pathway to the wheelchair accessible swing, email stokesdalepto@gmail.com.

Youth Sync Hiding your smile? We can help!

Matthew J. Olmsted, DDS MS Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center 2205 Oak Ridge Road, Suite CC (336) 441-7007

olmstedorthodontics.com We are OPEN and accepting new patients

James Wrinkle achieves Eagle rank James Wrinkle, member of Troop 103 sponsored by First Baptist Church Summerfield, recently achieved his Eagle rank.

According to Wikipedia, an orienteering course is composed of a start point, a series of control points and a finish point. Controls are marked with a white and orange flag in the terrain, and corresponding purple symbols on an orienteering map. The challenge is to complete the course by visiting all control points in the shortest possible time, aided only by the map and a compass.

A sophomore at Northern Guilford High School, James is the son of Tim and Dana Wrinkle.

James wished to express his

...continued from p. 34

Sept. 5 | A resident of the 8400 block of Linville Oaks Drive (Linville Oaks subdivision) in Oak Ridge reported that between Sept. 4 at 8 p.m. and Sept. 5 at 6:45 a.m. an unknown suspect broke into a window of his vehicle, causing $1,000 worth of damage, and stole a blue/black CartTek golf bag containing Mizuno golf clubs and several other golf accessories, worth $3,390 altogether.

Sept. 9 | An employee of Lowes Foods in Oak Ridge reported a known suspect shoplifted three packs of Marlboro cigarettes and a container of Folgers coffee; the stolen items were recovered.

For his Eagle project, James renovated and expanded a permanent orienteering course at Bur-Mil Park which had been created in 2001

by Boy Scout Troop 8 and, at over 20 years old, was in poor condition.

James also created a new orienteering map, and then followed through to get the information on the Bur-Mil Park website for the community.

Information about orienteering and the course is now posted at the bottom of Bur-Mil Park’s webpage, which can be found at www.guilfordcountync.gov – type “Bur Mil Park” in the Search bar.

CRIME/INCIDENT REPORT

UNCLASSIFIED Sept. 1 | Officers responded to a road rage incident in the 100 block of Oak

Ridge Road/I-73 N in Summerfield.

Sept. 5 | Officers responded to a report of extortion in the 5600 block of Faye Drive (Dogwood Estates subdivision) in Summerfield.

Sept. 10 | An employee of Tractor Supply Company in Oak Ridge reported suspicious activity.

VANDALISM Sept. 4 | A citizen at Richardson Taylor Preserve in northern Greensboro reported that between 9:35 and 11:32 a.m. an unknown suspect caused $300 worth of damage to his vehicle.

Sept. 9 | A resident of the 5000 block of Shoreline Drive in northwest Greensboro reported that between Sept. 1 and Sept. 9 an unknown suspect damaged his property via motor vehicle.

Who will be the VOICE for this child?

Photo courtesy of Tim Wrinkle

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.

appreciation to his Scoutmaster, Jamie Nelson, and to Todd Moore and Matthew Wallace with Guilford County Parks Department for their help and support of his Eagle project.

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(336) 412-7580 | volunteerforgal.org

SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

39

Delighted or dismayed by something in your community?

Share your thoughts in online: nwobserver.com

40

words or less

email: grinsandgripes@nwobserver.com

Grins & Gripes are published based on available space and editor’s discretion.

The nice man at Sheetz in a Mosquito911 van who gave me and my children a jump when our battery died a few weeks ago. Thank you for your kindness!

All the people who put out U.S. flags on Sept. 11. After 21 years, it is sometimes too easy to go about our daily lives and forget the impact of that very sad day. Thank you for not letting us.

Oak Ridge Mayor Ann Schneider and the amazing group of volunteers who cleaned up the yard at the Redmon house (now the Farmhouse Community Center). Drive by and see how charming the house and grounds look.

The Adams family, who stopped when I flagged them down as they were passing by the Cascade Preserves (in Oak Ridge). My husband had broken his arm while hiking and we needed help calling 911.

The nice man who paid for my groceries at Bi-Rite. How very nice.

You were my angel that day.

Lynne DeVaney, Summerfield mayor pro tem, for contacting the appropriate people to have surveillance cameras installed at the Anna Long Marshall Wayside parking lot on U.S. 220. I contacted her after my truck was vandalized and personal belongings stolen.

Oak Ridge resident Randy Floss, who volunteers hundreds of hours to coordinate the annual RidgeFest, (including getting volunteers and sponsors), and is there almost the entire time of the event to help in any way he can. What a huge undertaking!

Knight Container Services in Summerfield for prompt, reliable and great service, and especially for answering all of my many questions.

The people on Brookbank Road flying the U.S. flag. As I ride down that road, I see U.S. flags flying on mailboxes on both sides. It lets us know they never forgot 9/11. God bless the USA.

The person who complained about the sheriff’s District 1 office.

Direct your gripe to the sheriff, not the hard-working deputies. They are busting their tails for you with fewer officers and low morale. Want change? Vote Byrd.

People who say, “It’s a free country, I can do what I want.” Thinking like that necessitated HOAs. The homeowner in River Oaks (Oak Ridge) who constantly uses a leaf blower; the driver of a blue, older model muscle car (for unsafe driving); the driver of a black motorcycle (for unsafe driving); and the person who has set up a dirt bike racing track in

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GRINS & GRIPES ...continued from p. 41

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Editor’s note: In recent weeks we’ve received an unusual number of gripes from residents of River Oaks in Oak Ridge that are directed toward other neighborhood residents. I’ve combined some of them this week into one gripe (above) and did not publish several others because they address the same issues. In going forward, I suggest that residents with grievances about their neighbors either reach out to them directly (in person, or even in an anonymous letter), speak with the sheriff’s department (if it has to do with poor/unsafe driving or other illegal activity) or speak with representatives of the neighborhood’s homeowner’s association (email address is roha@riveroaksoakridge.org) in an effort to work toward resolving these issues because frankly, I just don’t think they’re going to be resolved by more gripes in the Northwest Observer.

School bus bullies. Parents, please teach your kids how to behave in society.

Whoever is responsible (Oak Ridge or Guilford County?) for managing the invasive plants growing over the trees and guard rails along N.C. 68.

Editor’s note: The issue you’ve brought up wouldn’t be handled by either Oak Ridge or Guilford County, but rather by N.C. Department of Transportation. I would recommend you call (336) 487-0000, which is the office number for the department’s Division 7 (which includes Guilford County), and ask to speak with someone in roadside maintenance to share your concerns.

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issues that arise in the community.

Very unprofessional. A lot of disappointed neighbors here in Northwest Meadows.

Clueless parents who let their small children roam the neighborhood without teaching them about the dangers of traffic. I almost hit one of your kids today. Please use some common sense and teach them about road safety.

People who cannot assimilate into neighborhood life or understand when they might be disturbing their neighbors. Please wise up to your surroundings. One bad apple spoils it for the rest of us.

Whoever turned the lights off after deciding the Powder Puff charity game at Northern High School was over.

Children were in the middle of a play, running down the field. Someone should apologize.

Those complaining about “untidy” and “loud” neighbors. Try living around three separate communities plagued with about 10 drug houses bringing in frequent drug activity and several felons. Please appreciate any neighbor who isn’t a daily threat to public safety.

Windsor Homes. They were great during the sales process, but are terrible after purchase. An awful lot of angry homeowners in Old Moore’s Mill and a completely (intentionally?) unresponsive warranty department. Buyer beware!

NGHS staff responsible for the complete disrespect to the students and spectators at the Powder Puff game. Cutting the lights was dangerous. Continuing to punish the kids is wrong. Shame on you and the school!

connected to your neighbors at

/NorthwestObserver 42

Pub: Northwest Observer SEPT. Size: 4.86” x 9.5” 15 - 28, Insert: 9/15/22

2022

Client: Atrium Northwest Observer JobThe No: ATRW-12115 Title: Expertly Tailored for You

• Totally local since 1996

 AUTO SALES & SERVICE

 EMPLOYMENT

 YARD SALES

SAM'S AUTO BODY SHOP. Any type of body work. 45 years exp. (336) 965-7955.

The TOWN of OAK RIDGE is accepting applications for a part-time Parks & Recreation groundskeeper. Up to 25 hours weekly. Very flexible schedule with occasional weekends.

Applicants must have clean NCDL and ability to pass background check. Candidates should submit an application (can be found at oakridgenc.com under Our Town/Employment tab) to tlannon@oakridgenc.com or at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road (M-F, 8:30am-4:30pm).

MULTI-FAMILY / STREET YARD SALE. Sat., Sept. 17, 8am-12pm. McKibbin Circle in Armfield subdivision, Summerfield. Furniture, clothes, toys and more. Hope to see you there!

1984 CHEVROLET EL CAMINO. Original owner. Like new. Original paint and interior.

Please call (336) 668-2415.

CHOICE TIRE AND AUTOMOTIVE. Oil changes, inspections, alignments and general automotive repairs. 1080 US Hwy 66 S, Kernersville, NC. (336) 992-9002.

 SAVE THE DATE Place online at (336) 891-3876 EUROHAUSAUTO.PRO

DEADLINE: Monday prior to each issue

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

INDEX Auto Sales & Service ........ 43 Employment .................... 43 Save the Date.................. 43 Yard Sales ....................... 43 Home Services ...........43-46 Misc. Services .................. 46

KNIGHT IMPORT SPECIALTY SERVICE. European Auto Service & Repair. Specializing in factory-scheduled maintenance and repairs. BMW, Audi, Volvo, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Mini, and Porsche. 32 years experience.

4559 US Hwy. 220, Summerfield (across from Food Lion). (336) 337-0669.

 EMPLOYMENT SUMMERFIELD VETERINARY HOSPITAL is seeking a full-time kennel assistant. Weekends and holidays are a must. Drug and background check required. Please apply in person, 4318 US Hwy. 220N, Summerfield, or email resume to Lydia@summerfieldvet.com.

(336) 643-6326.

STAFF POSITIONS available in childcare center. Please call (336) 643-5930.

SUBWAY in Oak Ridge is now hiring. Salary can be up to $13/hour. Call (336) 338-6142 or come see us.

Misc. Wanted .................. 46

HELP WANTED. The Garden Outlet in Summerfield is hiring landscaping crew. For information call (336) 643-0898.

Real Estate ...................... 46

HIRING? nwobserver.com

MAMMOGRAPHY SCREENING. Saturday, Sept. 17, 9am-12pm. Shady Grove Wesleyan Community Center, 119 N. Bunker Hill Rd., Colfax. All major ins. accepted.

Text MAMM to (336) 525-5870.

BLOOD DRIVE. Sat., Sept. 17, 9am-3pm.

Shady Grove Wesleyan Community Center, 119 N. Bunker Hill Rd., Colfax. Text BLOOD to (336) 525-5870.

COMMUNITY FUN DAY. Sunday, Sept. 25, 11am-3pm. Gideon Grove United Methodist Church, 2865 Gideon Grove Church Road, Stokesdale. Bounce house, corn hole, hot dogs on the fire pit, kids' crafts and games, live music (including Hubert Lawson & The Bluegrass Country Boys), door prizes and more! Bring the kids and enjoy some great fellowship and fun!

 YARD SALES YARD SALE. Friday, Sept. 16, and Saturday, Sept. 17, 8am-12pm. 7850 Sutter Rd., Greensboro. Adult bikes, stroller, gorilla cart, Dometic CoolFreeze CF-8 refrigerator/freezer, hand-carved wooden nativity set for outside, peace lily plants, Santa Christmas dolls, picture frames.

NEIGHBORHOOD YARD SALE. River Oaks community in Oak Ridge is having its annual fall yard sale on Saturday, Sept. 17, 8am-noon. Hwy 68, one mile north of Oak Ridge Military Academy. Multiple families are selling household items, furniture, clothes, toys and more. Come out and be first to find your treasure! Rain date is Oct 1.

TheObserver Northwest • Totally The Northwest • Observer Totally local since local 1996since 1996

DOWNSIZING SALE. Sat., Sept. 24, 7am-?

2133 Beeson Rd., Oak Ridge. Tools, garden, small tables, kitchen, bedding, games, decorative, crafts & more. Rain date Sat., Oct. 1.

Mt. Pisgah’s “MORE THAN A YARD SALE”.

Sat., Oct. 1, 7am-1pm. 2600 Pisgah Church Road, Greensboro. Family clothing, linens, jewelry, household furnishings, holiday items, tools, sports equipment and much more!

Something going on?

We’ll help get the word out!

Place your Yard Sale or Save the Date classified ad online at www.nwobserver.com.

 HOME SERVICES AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING A-ACTION AIR. Heating check-up, $79.95.

(336) 268-6768 or (336) 382-3750.

CLEANING HOUSE CLEANING and interior painting. 10% off all services. (336) 604-3249.

KCCandPser vices@gmail.com.

MAID-2- SHINE. Excellent ser vice, 15 years experience. Free estimates, excellent references. (336) 338-0223 PAOLA CLEANING SERVICE. Residential & commercial. Insured. (336) 669-5210 CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING Gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. windowcleaningnc.com. (336) 595-2873.

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.

ANNASARAH'S CLEANING. Excellent references. Trustworthy. Family owned business. Free estimates. (336) 543-3941.

continued on p. 44

SEPT. 1515 - 28, 2022 SEPT. - 28, 2022

43 43

HOME SERVICES

HOME SERVICES

HOME SERVICES

HOME SERVICES

THE CLEANING TECHNICIAN LLC. Back in business. Let me provide my cleaning services and help your house sparkle this summer! I do detailed cleaning. Licensed, bonded, insured and vaccinated. Call Lisa, (336) 207-0770.

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.

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. Call Bobby Lipstreu, (336) 543-7867.

ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Free estimates.

Licensed & insured. (336) 643-9157.

DECORATING BLISSFUL ART & FRAMING. SHOP LOCAL! Framing, gifts, graphic design. 4533 Hwy. 220 N., Summerfield. (336) 298-4502.

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.

PLACE YOUR AD: nwobserver.com

ELECTRICAL CKH ELECTRIC, LLC. Give us a call for your next residential, commercial, or industrial project. Free estimates. Licensed, insured, and BBB accredited. (336) 414-4899.

“No Job Too Small” Wood Rot Repairs • Bathroom Remodeling Painting • Decks and much more! • Insured

Contact us for a free estimate!

(336) 669-7252

oldschoolsjhr@triad.rr.com

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

CLOCK SERVICE. Free house calls for sick clocks. 8103 Windspray Dr., Summerfield.

(336) 643-9931.

BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC. Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192.

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.

Do you have ELECTRICAL NEEDS? Call Coble Electric LLC at (336) 209-1486.

APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707.

FLOORING / TILE

GRADING / HAULING

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.

CLEAN-UP & HAULING. Lots, yards, natural areas, houses and barns. Most any type of debris removal. Call Steve, (336) 643-1119.

VIKING TILE and FLOORS. Veteranowned and fully insured. Focused on high-quality installations of tile floors and backsplashes. Upgrade your kitchen, bathroom, outdoor space, fireplace and more by calling us at (336) 908-5468 or visiting vikingtileandfloors.com.

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES LOW-COST GARAGE DOORS. Repair and sales. 35 years exp. (336) 207-1003.

44 SEPT. SEPT. - 28, 2022 1515 - 28, 2022

DTW GRADING & HAULING, INC. Offering a sum of aggregates, including but not limited to: fill dirt, stone, asphalt millings, and crushed concrete. We also offer full bobcat services. Driveways, minor clearing, drainage solutions and snow removal.

Daniel Wilson, (336) 339-0212.

GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, fill dirt, gravel, etc. (336) 362-1150.

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.

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

DILLON TREE SERVICE. Certified arborist.

Locally owned; in business 25 yrs. Serving the Triad area. Specializing in large/hazardous tree removal and emergency removals.

Free estimates. www.dillontreeservice.com.

Call (336) 996-6156.

DSL DRAIN SYSTEMS & LANDSCAPING. (336) 362-4354.

GUTTERS / SIDING / WINDOWS

NC FORESTRY MULCHING & LANDWORKS. Top rated on Google! Let us help you take back your land! (336) 362-6181. ncforestrymulching.com.

S&M SEAMLESS GUTTERS. Install new gutters. Repair and clean old gutters. Free estimates. Fully insured. (336) 587-8223 or (336) 709-5944.

STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. 40+ years experience. Any type of tree, shrubbery and landscaping work. Oak Ridge.

(336) 643-1119.

WILSON

Seamless Gutters

Installation, repair, replacement, Leaf Guard

Stokesdale

336-420-0200 LAWNCARE / LANDSCAPING HILL LAWNCARE & OUTDOOR SERVICES. Free est. Call (336) 669-5448.

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

AQUA SYSTEMS IRRIGATION. Quality irrigation systems. NC licensed contractor. We service all systems. Free est. (336) 644-1174.

AUGUSTA GREEN LANDSCAPES. Lawn/landscape maintenance and design, aeration, seeding, fertilizing, pine needles, mulch, leaf removal & more! Free estimates. (336) 708-6150.

The Northwest Observer •Observer Totally local since 1996 The Northwest • Totally local since 1996

INTEGRITY TREE SERVICE, LLC. Tree removal, risk assessment, tree pruning, dead wood removal. Competitive pricing. Fully insured. Owner-operated. Call for free estimate, (336) 210-8310.

CM STUMP GRINDING, LLC. Family owned and operated. Commercial/residential. Free quotes! (336) 317-4600.

EXTERIOR GREENSCAPES. Lawn maintenance service. Call for a free estimate (336) 682-1456.

ORTIZ LANDSCAPING, complete lawn care. Trimming, cleaning, planting & mulch, gutter cleaning, patios & pavers, waterfalls, retaining walls, sidewalks, stonework. Residential and commercial. (336) 280-8981.

STRAIGHT EDGE LAWN CARE. Free estimates. Please call (336) 306-0274.

The Northwest Observer

Keeping you connected since 1996!

SOUTHERN CUTZ LAWN CARE. Offering complete lawn maintenance services, landscaping, bush hogging, privacy fence installation/repair/staining, and stump grinding.

Nathan Adkins, (336) 430-6086.

 HOME SERVICES COLFAX LAWNCARE. Core aeration & seeding. Fertilizing, mowing, trimming, pine needles. Complete lawn care maintenance.

Res./comm. Fully insured. Serving the Triad for 33 years. (336) 362-5860.

GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490.

MASONRY SOUTHERN STYLE Concrete, LLC & Outdoor Living understands the dynamics of a beautiful yard. We keep up with the latest trends with our custom pools/patios, outdoor lighting, fire pits, retaining walls, driveways and other numerous landscape designs. This can be the perfect focal point for your home. Call us at (336) 399-6619.

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.

NEW PHASE CONCRETE. Here for all your decorative concrete needs. Specializing in decorative stamp, stained, epoxy and all other concrete poured finishes as well. Also offering refurbishment of existing stamped concrete. Make your existing stamped look like new again! (336) 399-1474 or (336) 595-4654.

 HOME SERVICES

CONCRETE COATINGS Flake Epoxy Systems Garage Floor and Concrete Resurfacing Decorative Concrete Overlays Stamped Concrete Rejuvenation Eric Sauls, Owner ● (336) 970-3543 Call for your free estimate

Your HOME SERVICES company should be here!

Place your ad online:

nwobserver.com MISC. HOME SERVICES/PRODUCTS COX POOL SERVICE. Openings, closings, routine maintenance, weekly service. No contracts, free estimates! (336) 327-5122.

JUNK & DEBRIS REMOVAL, construction, remodeling, and general cleanup, outbuildings, garages, basements, yard waste, etc.

Also can haul mulch. Call (336) 706-8470.

PEARMAN QUARRY LCID. Inert debris landfill. Yard waste, concrete, etc. Mulch and fill dirt available. (336) 803-2195 or (336) 558-7673.

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

Sewing ANSWER KEY (from Kids’ Korner on pg. 28) 1. Zippers were first sewn on what article of clothing?

B. shoes;.Zippers were first invented for footwear in 1893, but soon adapted for use on clothing 2. What were the first sewing needles made of?

C. animal bones. The first needles used during the stone age era were animal bones and ivory 3. Which of the following is not a type of sewing machine stitch?

A. the walking stitch 4. Who is credited with perfecting the prototype of the sewing machine we use today?

D. Isaac Singer 5. Which country is currently the top producer of fabric?

C. China. China is followed by India, then Italy, then Germany in top fabric production

 HOME SERVICES

 HOME SERVICES

PAINTING & DRYWALL

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

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.

PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 40 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. Average BDRM walls $100. Insured. Call Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186.

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

BEK Paint Co.

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.

Residential & Commercial David & Judy Long, owners

(336) 931-0600

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

PAINTING, DECKS AND MORE. Call Premier Construction for free estimates.

(336) 430-9507.

Follow us on Facebook for northwest-area news updates!

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

STILL PERFECTION PAINTING. Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com.

PLUMBING SIGNATURE PLUMBING. Local, experienced, clean, and work is guaranteed.

Please call (336) 279-6196.

WEBSTER & SONS PLUMBING, Inc. (336) 992-2503. Licensed, insured, bonded.

24/7 service. Plumbing, drain cleaning, well pumps. Give us a call, we do it all! Go to www.webstersplumbing.com for more info.

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

PRESSURE WASHING

Offer a home service?

Place your ad:

KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION, LLC. N.C. general contractor with 30 years experience. Specializing in new homes, room additions, kitchens & baths, garages, decks, vinyl siding and windows, painting, tile, laminate and vinyl plank, and remodeling of all kinds. Quality for the right price. Free est. Please call (336) 362-7469.

Services TM Construction , INC

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Outdoor living spaces | Fire pits

(336) 644-8615 office (336) 508-5242 cell

HOUSE and ROOF SOFT WASHING. Martin's Pressure Washing. (919) 931-0856.

Licensed & insured

PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Fully insured. Crystal Clear, www. windowcleaningnc.com or (336) 595-2873.

tmcsi.net

TheObserver Northwest• Observer • Totally The Northwest Totally local since local 1996since 1996

NC Gen. Contractor #72797

continued on p. 46

SEPT. 1515 - 28, 2022 SEPT. - 28, 2022

45

 HOME SERVICES

 MISC. SERVICES

AMERICAN BUILDER CONSTRUCTION. Repairs & remodeling, kitchens/baths, additions, decks, attics, basements. Licensed & insured. Short wait list. NC general contractors.

(336) 225-7478.

Please support our advertisers, locally owned & operated

ROOFING

6705 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale

(336) 643-9963 (affiliated with Stokesdale Storage) Local roofing company. Since 1979.

Residential & Commercial Roofing shingle roofing ● metal roofing roof replacement ● roof inspections TPO roofing ● EPDM roofing

We finance. Free estimates.

(336) 362-6343 ● belewscreekconstruction.com

DUSTIN CLINARD ROOFING. Shingles, metal, and leak repairs. Call (336) 268-1908 CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC. 40 + years experience. (336) 643-8191.

SAME-DAY

FREE INSPECTIONS

Roof Replacement • Roof Repairs NEW! Roof Rejuvenation www.5StarROOFINGUSA.com

Got stuff?

Need stuff?

Place your Classified ad today:

(336) 644-7035, ext. 10

www.nwobserver.com

 MISC. WANTED Wanted: GOLF CART that needs repair. Will pay cash. (336) 882-1403.

FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, tillers, generators, power washers, 4-wheelers, mini bikes, golf carts, mopeds, other gas-powered items, etc. (336) 689-4167.

336-780-7800

$$$ – WILL PAY CASH for your junk / wrecked vehicle. For quote, call (336) 552-0328.

PREMIER ROOFING. Commercial/residential. Providing service for all of your roofing needs. Locally owned. Please call (336) 430-9507 for free assessments.

WANT TO LEASE LAND FOR HUNTING of deer and turkey. Stokes, Guilford, or Rockingham County. References available upon request. Possible land maintenance with lease.

Please call Mike, (336) 413-3817.

customerservice@5starroofingnc.com

Your HOME SERVICES company should be here!

 REAL ESTATE

Place your classified ad online at

HOMES FOR RENT

www.nwobserver.com  MISC. SERVICES

HOUSE FOR RENT. Taking applications for 2 BD, 1 and 1/2 BA. One block from Ontex on Hwy 65. Non-smokers. $1,100 per mo. Deposit required. Call (336) 423-8703.

PORTABLE WELDING SERVICE. Welding & fabrication services. Call (336) 908-6906.

2 BD, 1 BA DUPLEX in Stokesdale. $1200/ month. For info call (336) 549-0501.

46 SEPT. SEPT. - 28, 2022 1515 - 28, 2022

index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

and tell them where you saw their ad!

ACCOUNTING

By the Book Accounting ..................... 13 Carlotta Lytton, CPA...........................30 Kimberly Thacker Accounting.............30 Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC........ 8

AUTOMOTIVE SALES / SERVICE

EuroHaus .....................................26, 43 Piedmont Truck Tires .......................... 41 Tire Max ............................................. 10

BANK / LENDING / INVESTMENTS

First Citizens Bank .............................. 15

BUILDING / REMODELING

Disney Construction Company............ 24 Don Mills Builders ............................... 27 Old School Home Repair ....................44 R&K Custom Homes .......................... 19 Ray Bullins Construction ..................... 23 Superior Outdoor Spaces.................... 20 TM Construction Services ................... 45 Walraven Signature Homes ................ 23

GROCERIES / SUPPLIES

Southern Foods .................................... 7

HEALTH & FITNESS

SNAP Fitness...................................... 14

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES

5 Star Roofing .................................... 46 BEK Paint Company ........................... 45 Belews Creek Construction ................. 46 Carpets by Direct ................................ 29 CharCo Concrete Coatings ................. 45 Madison Flooring................................ 26 New Garden Landscaping & Nursery . 22 Rymack Storage ................................. 46 Stokesdale Heating & Air.................... 12 Wilson Seamless Gutters ....................44

INSURANCE

Gladwell Insurance Agency................. 20

LEGAL SERVICES

Barbour & Williams Law ....................... 6

MEDICAL / HEARING / PT

Oak Ridge Horse Show Assoc. ........... 11 Summerfield Merchants Association... 47

Aim Hearing & Audiology................... 21 Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist .... 26 Atrium Health WFB, Summerfield....... 42 Health Team Advantage ...................... 9 LeBauer HealthCare........................... 28 Northwest Pediatrics ........................... 38 Novant Health ...................................... 5 Oak Ridge Physical Therapy ...............40

DENTAL SERVICES

ORTHODONTIC CARE

Summerfield Family Dentistry ............. 35

Olmsted Orthodontics ........................ 39

EVENTS

PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS

CHILDREN’S SERVICES

Guardian Ad Litem ............................. 39

CHURCHES

Central Baptist Church Awana Clubs .. 37

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

Northwest Animal Hospital .................34

Friends of Stokesdale Fall Dance .......... 4 Friends of Stokesdale Farmers’ Day .... 32 Gideon Grove UMC FUN Day .............. 2 McLaurin Farms Pumpkin Patch Days .. 3 Oak Ridge Heritage Day .................... 16 Oak Ridge Lions Club Golf Tourney .... 33 Summerfield FD Stop, Drop and Roll .. 31 Summerfield SummerCycle ................ 14

A New Dawn Realty ........................... 13 Kara Winicki, EXP Realty.................... 21 Nicole Gillespie, RE/MAX ................... 28 Smith Marketing – Allen Tate .............34

FUNERAL SERVICES

YOUTH SPORTS / CAMPS

Forbis & Dick Funeral Services ............ 13 The Northwest Observer •Observer Totally local since 1996 The Northwest • Totally local since 1996

REAL ESTATE

RETAIL

Threads of Serenity ............................30 Oak Ridge Youth Association ............. 35

ATHLETICS HOF

...continued from p. 35 or deceased. A contributor is an individual who has helped develop and grow the athletic department at NWHS and has had a significant impact on the NWHS athletic community.

There will be no set number of inductees each year, but it will not exceed 15.

All nominees must be considered “of high moral character and value,” have significant connections to NWHS, and may be living or deceased. Athlete nominees should have excelled in athletics while at NWHS and potentially beyond high school. All coach nominees must have served as a varsity head coach at NWHS for at least seven years.

Each year’s Hall of Fame inductees

will be announced at a home football game in the fall and honored with a ceremony at a home basketball game in the winter.

Anyone wishing to nominate a candidate for consideration is asked to complete a form that outlines the candidate’s athletic achievements and contributions, as well as offers examples of what makes the candidate an outstanding person of moral character.

Nomination forms will be due no later than Oct. 1 of the year in which the candidate is to be considered.

want to nominate a candidate?

Email Jason Allred, NWHS athletics director, at allredd3@gcsnc.com for a nomination form.

Summerfield Merchants Association (SMA) supports our local businesses and community.

To join or for more info, email info@summerfieldmerchant.com or visit www.summerfieldmerchant.com or

Facebook.com/SummerfieldMerchantsAssociation

STOKESDALE TOWN COUNCIL ...continued from p. 13 50

for doing “an amazing job.”

Small Town Development grant. Foy said the town has received a $50,000 grant for capital improvements or equipment and he proposed it be used toward a new amphitheater, nature trials and playground equipment in the town park.

Foy also noted SPAR’s basketball program will soon be back in the school gym on Saturdays, and the cheerleading program is starting back up.

to authorize a $2,948 payment to Yates Construction for repairing a broken storm water drain system at the soccer field in the town park. Jones commended Robertson for his quick response.

50

to adopt a Conflict of Interest policy, a required document for the above grant, make it effective Sept. 8, and incorporate it into the town’s Ethics policy.

Jones suggested poster-size copies of the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence and the state constitution be purchased and prominently displayed in Town Hall.

Landreth agreed, but said he didn’t think tax dollars should be used; the five council members then agreed to donate $100 each to pay for framed copies of the documents.

COUNCIL COMMENTS Regarding funding a deputy to help with school traffic, council member Jim Rigsbee said Guilford County Schools (GCS) had not yet funded any remedies to issues outlined in a traffic study performed by NCDOT.

Thanks to Karen Kimrey of Triad’s Finest Real Estate for hosting our September 6 meeting.

Join us at our next meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 4, 6:30 p.m.

To RSVP, email info@summerfieldmerchant.com

“For us to take the fallback for the issues isn’t right,” Rigsbee said. “I don’t think citizens of Stokesdale should have to be responsible for covering the cost that the two largest funded entities in Guilford County (GCS and Guilford County Sheriff’s Office) know well is an issue… We don’t tax our citizens and we’re not receiving sales tax. This should have fallen on GCS or the sheriff’s office.”

Foy praised Stokesdale Parks and Recreation (SPAR)’s board members

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

“They’re making a lot of improvements to the baseball fields. Hats off to them for raising the money through members and sponsors to do that,” he said. “SPAR is not affiliated with the town. They run a great program.”

Finally, Foy recognized Northwest High School graduate Olivia Carr, who made the cheerleading team at N.C. State and the travel team as a freshman.

Landreth thanked attendees and the town’s excellent staff, saying, “I’m happy to live in a town where one of our biggest problems is a drink machine.”

Referencing the 9/11 ceremony, Jones said he preferred that citizens and local churches step forward, adding, “Government can only do so many things without becoming intrusive.

“Regarding deputies and school traffic management, it’s hard for me to want to lead with the town’s money when we’re talking about the two largest entities in the county,” he said. “I would ask, what did the Guilford County commissioners tell you, and how did the school board respond to your request – and if you haven’t asked them, why in the world would you come to us first?”

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:52 p.m.

SEPT. 15 - 28, 2022

47

PRSRT STD PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE U.S. POSTAGE

PAID PAID

Postal Patron Patron Postal

Oak Ridge, NC Oak Ridge, NC Permit Permit No.No. 22 22

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

ECRWSS ECRWSS

Ace Wenzel knows there is no better poolside reading than the Northwest Observer. While visiting his Aunt Terry in New Jersey, Ace took a break from swimming and checked out the NWO’s back cover to see where other readers from back home had traveled.

The Henson Forest Swim Team caught up on the latest Grins & Gripes between events at the Greensboro Community Swim Association city meet on July 8.

b and Jeni Erikson of Over the summer, Ro son, their 8-year-old grand Summerfield visited e hil W .

Pole, Arkansas Aidan Barile, in North e th a, en on at Lake Ch spending the afterno paper ing their hometown ar sh Eriksons enjoyed ar-old -ye 1.5 a ki, Fre st bud, with Aidan and his be d.

Norwegian elkhoun

Scott and Michele Miller enjoyed spending their 25th anniversary in Dublin, Ireland’s local spot, the Cobblestone Pub. What a great place to have a pint, enjoy listening to some Irish music, and catch up on the news from home!

Going near or far?

Be sure to pack up your Northwest Observer and send us your NWO on the go photos!

Email your high-res photo to : photos@nwobserver.com