northwest observer | january 24 - 30, 2014

Jan. 24 - 30, 2014

We asked local business owners

Are you feeling the effects of an economy turnaround?

Man recounts miraculous survival, recoveryTrapped under a tractor in a remote corner of 620 acres, Edward Malone escapes serious injury

bringing the local news home to northwest Guilford County since 1996 • nwobserver.com •

IN THIS ISSUENews in brief ................................3 Stokesdale Town Council appoints

citizen to serve two-year term

Budget season is underway

Your Questions ............................4Summerfield Town Council ........8Community Calendar ..............10Business Notes ..........................12Bits & Pieces ..............................12 Two local actresses receive awards

‘Comfort food’ recipes .............13Student Profiles .........................14Crime/Incident Report .............15Letters/Opinions ......................16Grins & Gripes ...........................17Classifieds .................................18Index of Advertisers .................23NWO On The Go! ..................... 24

NW GUILFORD – On the local front and throughout the country, few busi-nesses were left unscathed by what has often been referred to as the Great Recession. As we settle into a new year, surrounded by reports of a gradual eco-nomic turnaround, we surveyed people who are on the frontlines every day – the business owners and entrepreneurs

at the heart of our community. Here’s what they have to say:

• • •

“We opened our Oak Ridge location in May 2008, just a few months before the economy crashed. It was pretty rough for a few years, but things started improving in the spring of 2013 and

by ANNETTE JOYCEThe National Agricultural Tractor

Safety Initiative estimates that about 250 people in the United States die each year from tractor-related acci-dents. Fortunately, northwest Greens-boro resident Edward Malone is not one of those people.

After being trapped underneath his tractor in excruciating pain and fear-ing that he would die or be paralyzed, Malone walked away with minor injuries.

Malone’s ordeal started on the afternoon of Nov. 6. Alone working on his farm in Martinsville, Va., he had just gotten off his tractor when it started to

business has remained good.

“I think the local economy in gen-eral is making a comeback and the opening of the new GTCC campus will provide a boost to the area.

“As for our future, we’re looking at maintaining the growth we’ve made over the past year. Anything above that is wonderful. We just don’t want to go back to the 2008 figures.”

Donna Spencer, owner Bill’s Pizza Pub/Oak Ridge

roll down the mountain.

“I rushed to get back on it,” Malone said. “The rear wheel of the tractor knocked me to the ground and rolled up on my right thigh. My right leg was

...continued on p. 6


Photos courtesy of Edward Malone.

Rescue workers remove the tractor that trapped Edward Malone at his farm on Nov. 6. Malone credits God and “ministering angels” with sparing his life after he was trapped underneath a tractor on his remote mountain farm.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 JAN. 24 - 30, 2014 3

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NEWS in brief


Albert appointed to fill council seatSTOKESDALE – Gary Albert ran for a town council seat in November, but

lost his bid to Vicki White-Lawrence. Albert got a second chance at serving on the council, however, when Randy Braswell was elected as mayor after only serving

two years of his four-year council term.

The town council announced last month that it was accepting applications

from citizens interested in serving out the remaining two years of Braswell’s term. In all, about six people threw their name in the hat. At the Jan. 21 council meet-ing, the council voted to appoint Albert to serve for two years.

Albert, 62, has lived in Stokesdale since 1976. He is the former owner of Stokesdale Auto Supply, and retired last June after selling the business. When running for council earlier this year, his campaign slogan was, “A better Stokes-dale, not a more expensive one.” Albert said he has been against a property tax “from the beginning,” and was in favor of “Stokesdale being run by people who have lived here a long time … I don’t think the new people coming here always have the same goals in mind.”

Budget season gets underwayNW GUILFORD – It’s a new year, and time for municipalities on a July 1 to June 30 fiscal cycle to begin work on the next fiscal year’s budget. All budget meetings are open to the public and two public hearings are held prior to the budget being approved.

Oak Ridge’s finance committee will hold its first budget meeting of the year on Tuesday, Jan. 28 at 6 p.m. at the town hall on Linville Road. The town currently has an operating budget of $1.2 million; its largest source of rev-enue comes from property tax receipts, which is estimated for this fiscal year at $660,000 (based on tax rate of $8.63 cents per $100 property value). General government expenses, which include staff salaries, professional fees for the town attorney, finance officer and audit firm, utilities and equipment, are esti-mated at $541,197 this fiscal year.

Summerfield will hold a budget workshop on Thursday, Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. at the town hall on Oak Ridge

Road. Summerfield currently has an operating budget of $2.17 million; its largest single source of revenue also comes from property tax receipts, which is estimated for this year at $458,600 (based on tax rate of 3.5 cents per $100 property value). Franchise/excise taxes, estimated at about $397,000 this year, are the next highest source of revenue. The town’s largest expense line item in this year’s budget is $876,200, of which $600,000 is for land acquisition and development.

Summerfield is expected to ap-prove a budget meeting calendar at the Jan. 30 workshop; once approved, the calendar will be posted online at www.summerfieldgov.com.

Municipalities on a July 1-June 30 fis-cal cycle have until June 30 to approve their budgets, and northwest-area towns typically approve them at their June council meeting.

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4 JAN. 24 - 30, 2014 The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996




NECK & LOW BACK PAIN • HEADACHESNUMBNESS & TINGLING • SPORTS INJURIES

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Are there any plans to repair Linville Road between NC 68 and NC 150? The road is

really torn up and there are lots of potholes. Something needs to be done.

Darrell Ferguson, NCDOT district engineer for Guilford County, says this portion of

Linville Road “is on the list to be considered for resurfacing this year.”

The DOT is currently in the process of finalizing paving contracts for 2014, Ferguson says. Actual paving will start around April 1 and continue until about the middle of November.

In deciding which roads to resur-face during a specific time frame, DOT looks at all roads in need of repair and assigns them a number. Lower numbers signify roads that are in the worst shape, and these are the highest priority.

Ferguson points out that there are many other roads in worse condition than Linville Road, but he believes the chances of the road being resurfaced this year are “pretty good.”

Ferguson confirms that Linville Road has been patched several times. Resurfacing will involve filling in all the potholes and laying down another inch of asphalt.

Independently owned and published by

OUR TEAMPatti Stokes, editor/publisherLaura Troeger, associate publisherAnnette Joyce, marketing managerLaura Pullins, editorial assistantSean Gentile, art directorYvonne Truhon, page layoutLeon Stokes, technology directorLucy Smith, finance managerLinda Schatz, distribution managerHelen Ledford, Sharon Neely, Annette Joyce, contributing writers

HOW TO REACH USemail: info | advertising | classifieds celebrations | communitynews calendarevents | grinsandgripes opinions | photos | editor | questions

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mail: PO Box 268 Oak Ridge, NC 27310

OFFICE HOURSM-F 9am-2pm (or by appointment)1616 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge

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e-mail: [email protected]

We’re three weeks into January and the town of Stokesdale still has its holiday banners hung

along the street. Just wondering when they plan to take them down. Rumor is there might be a problem because it will cost the town $600 to have someone do it. I always thought the fire department did this – what’s the deal?

The Town of Stokesdale is responsible for putting up and taking down the banners that

hang on light poles along main street. The town contracts an insured and bonded company to do the work. The fire department has never been involved because they don’t have the equipment to handle the work

This year the town will pay $820 to have the work done. This money is tra-ditionally considered a parade expense and comes from proceeds from the annual event.

According to Carolyn Joyner, town clerk and finance officer, the process of taking down the banners has been delayed by the weather and schedul-ing conflicts with the people needed to accomplish the job. It has nothing to do with the cost.

The extremely rainy and cold weather that we’ve experienced has not offered the best working conditions. Joyner also points out that the banners need to be

dry when they’re brought in for storage, otherwise there’s the risk of mold.

Angel Electric of Stokesdale brings in a bucket truck to put up and remove the banners. Because of traffic issues, the town’s deputy is present to insure the workers’ safety.

The banners will be taken down as soon as the weather and scheduling of manpower permits, Joyner says.

Photo by Annette Joyce / NWO

Removal of Stokesdale’s holiday banners has been hindered by weather and schedul-ing conflicts.





NEWS BRIEFS ...continued from p. 5In your Nov. 29-Dec. 5 issue, you had an article

about Minni Threadgill turning 100 years old on Dec. 6. In that article you wrote that her daughter was asking people to send Minni birthday cards so she could receive 100 cards for her 100 years, and included a mailing address where readers could send cards. I sent one, and was wondering if enough other people did also so that Minni received 100 cards.

You’re right. Last month when Minni Threadgill turned 100 years old, her

daughter, Dorothy Spruill, wanted to do something special to commemo-rate this milestone event. So, she underwent a campaign to fill her mother’s Stokesdale mailbox with 100 birthday cards.

Spruill’s campaign was very suc-

cessful, and we’re happy to report that Minni Threadgill received 400 cards from friends, family and complete strangers!

“It was wonderful,” shares Spruill. “She was so excited and loved every one of them.”

Cards came from as far away as Utah and California. They included musical cards and cards that contained photos of people’s children who shared a birthday with Thread-gill. There was even a card from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, signed by Presi-dent and Mrs. Obama.

Threadgill spent 30 years working in the cafeteria at Stokesdale elemen-tary school. She left there and went to work for Gilbarco in Greensboro, from where she retired. She has three chil-dren, twelve grandchildren and a very large number of great, great-great and great-great-great grandchildren.

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Insurance companies request hefty rate increase Jan. 31 is deadline for public comments on requestNORTH CAROLINA – Insurance com-panies say they’ve been hit hard in recent years with claims from Hurricane Irene, Hurricane Sandy and several tornadoes. As a result, many insurers have either stopped offering homeowners insurance, or now require customers to purchase auto insurance from them before they can purchase homeowners insurance.

The insurance companies, represented by the North Carolina Rate Bureau, are requesting to raise homeowners insurance by a statewide average of 25 percent.

Jan. 31 is the deadline for the public to submit comments on the insurance companies’ request.

Written public comments should be

emailed to [email protected] or mailed to: NCDOI, Attn: Bob Mack, Property & Casualty Division, 1201 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1201 by Jan. 31.

As of Jan. 20, the Department of In-surance had received more than 2,000 emailed or mailed written comments.

The rate filing will be reviewed by Department of Insurance experts to determine what, if any, rate adjustments are warranted. If the Department of In-surance and North Carolina Rate Bureau cannot agree on rate changes, Com-missioner Goodwin will call for a formal hearing in which both parties would pres-ent their cases for any rate adjustments.





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COMPLETELY COMMITTED FOLLOWER.

TRACTOR ACCIDENT ...continued from p. 1

thrown over my left leg in scissor fashion and the wheel rolled up on top of my crossed legs, pinning me underneath.”

In horrific pain, Malone tried unsuc-cessfully to move the tractor off his body.

“I realized I was in real trouble,” he recalls. “I was 1 ½ miles from the clos-est blacktop road on a ridge on Turkey Cock Mountain in the southeast quad-rant of a 620-acre track of recreation and hunting land, with 10 miles of four-wheel drive roads.”

With no one remotely close to pro-vide help, Malone struggled to retrieve his cell phone from his left jeans pocket.

“Since I was pinned to the ground on my left side, this was a near impossible task,” he said.

Managing to finally reach the phone, on his first attempt to call for help he dialed 411 instead of 911. His next attempt was successful, but the dispatcher couldn’t understand Malone because of the noise from the tractor’s diesel engine. In frustration, he hung up and phoned a neighbor – and got an answering machine.

Then, the 911 dispatcher called back.

While Malone, a lay minister and founder of the Guilford County Jail Ministry, lay trapped underneath the machine, he said the only thing that en-tered his consciousness was that it didn’t matter if he was unable to walk.

“I was certain I would not,” he said. “The thought that passed through my mind in lightning speed was that I could still minister and this was unexplain-ably comforting. I would not need my legs. Other than that (thought), my total focus was on surviving.”

To survive, Malone had to be found and that proved to be a challenge.

“The 911 operator and I discussed location over and over,” said Malone.

“She tried to repeat what I would shout and I either agreed or tried to correct her. Again I shouted to her ‘go to the dead end of the county road, turn left onto a gravel road, then go 3/4 mile to a farm gate. From the gate, go 1/2 mile and take a right up the mountain. When they get to a green field, cross it. I am 100 yards into the woods from that field.’”

Malone managed to stay conscious and in contact with the 911 operator. After some time, she relayed the mes-sage that the responders had made it through the gate and were at the cabin. Malone’s heart sank. The emergency team had gone the wrong way and was on the opposite side of the mountain.

While the team made their way back, an acquaintance of Malone’s, Henry County deputy sheriff Wayne Davis, showed up. He had heard the call on the radio, knew the way to the location and decided to respond.

With help from the 911 dispatcher, Davis was able to locate Malone and in-struct the others as to how to get there. He was also able to move the tractor off of Malone. At that point, Malone says the blood started flowing back into his legs and he “felt the worse pain that he could ever have believed possible.”

Help from volunteer fire departments and emergency response teams contin-ued to arrive, along with a helicopter to transport Malone to Roanoke Memorial Hospital.

After a 15-minute flight to the hos-pital, Malone was immediately taken to the emergency room. He recalls that his “legs hurt to touch the skin.”

A little more than two hours later, the pain was gone, he was able to move his feet and legs and the x-rays showed no factures. His hospital stay lasted only two days.

Malone sees his ordeal and survival as a miracle from God.

“I believe in ministering angels,” he says. “The good Lord will have good come from this.”

Working with individual homeowners, Realtors and businesses, Old School Small Job Home Repair is a home improvement and repair com-pany that handles a complete range of jobs including dry wall repair, ceramic tile, bathroom remodeling, interior and exterior painting, structural repair, in-surance claim repairs and much more.

“We do everything from power washing and carpentry to picture hanging and replacing light bulbs,” says Jerry Potkay, who owns & oper-ates Old School along with his wife, Lisa Poppa. “We specialize in jobs that other businesses might consider too small to be worth their time.”

“There’s no job too small,” Lisa emphasizes. “In fact, our very first job was a simple request to change a light bulb for a sweet elderly lady who was unable to do it.”

“We recently had the good for-tune to have work performed in our home by Old School Small Job Home Repair,” writes Greensboro resident, Melia Pavoris. “Jerry and his fantastic assistants came in and put down sub flooring in our kitchen, laundry rooms and both baths, laid tile in all of these rooms and replaced the shower and tub surround in the master bath. They were extremely proficient and we found their work and work ethic to be five-star!”

Larry and Debbie Haege of High Point were also very pleased with the job Jerry and the team at Old School Small Job Home Repair did for them at their office and at their home. “They repaired the storm damage to the exterior of our offices quickly, avoiding any inside damage. Their work on our home has it looking and feeling like new again. We are looking

forward to our next project together!”

“Thanks for understanding our need for quick service,” says Carole Mez-zapelli of Colfax. “We appreciate your squeezing us into your busy schedule.”

As the owners of Old School, Jerry and Lisa relish hearing these kinds of comments. And it’s their commitment to exceptional service that makes such praise, repeat business and referrals the norm rather than the exception for this growing company.

While Jerry spends his days provid-ing estimates and personally taking care of repair jobs, Lisa handles the administrative duties.

Before opening the business, Lisa spent 18 years in office administration and is committed to providing quick and efficient service – something that both she and Jerry take much pride in.

Jerry’s background prepared him well for dealing with the vast array of tasks he performs in his business. At 17, he joined the navy and became profi-cient in welding. He left the service to

build Black Hawk helicop-ters and after that, worked 13 years as a welder for a

Connecticut company. Dur-ing that time, he was exposed

to every aspect of the business and was mentored by seasoned

repairmen and carpenters.

“The old-timers taught me ev-erything I know,” says Jerry. “That’s how we came up with the name ‘Old School’.”

Although they originally opened Old School in Connecticut, Jerry and Lisa moved their family to Stokesdale in 2005 and found themselves starting over.

“Our faith has always been very important to us and it definitely car-ried us through during those lean beginnings,” says Lisa.

After only a few jobs, word quickly spread that Old School could be counted on for quality, affordable work. “We work very hard to provide professional, honest and reliable ser-vice,” says Jerry. “We pay attention to what our customers want and follow through with our promises.”

“This includes returning calls and showing up when we say we will,” adds Lisa. “It’s all about reliability.”

This attitude has definitely paid off. Despite the worst economic years since the Depression, Old School has continued to grow. In addition to a

team of professionals that provide specialized services, the company now employs office assistant Kenda Braswell and a general labor assistant, Brian Domnick.

Besides using their talents for their livelihood, Jerry and Lisa are committed to giving back to God. Through their church, Calvary Church on Pleasant Ridge Road in northwest Greensboro, Jerry goes on mission building trips to Cuba and Panama twice a year. He is also the small group leader of the church’s Servant’s Heart ministry, which provides services to the needy.

Jerry and Lisa see their business as a ministry to reach out to people in need and often pray with clients and offer support. “We trust in the Lord for His provision,” says Jerry.

The couple enjoys spending free time with their six children and Lisa’s mom, Mary Ann. Timmy, 22, is a stu-dent at UNCG and is currently study-ing abroad in Poland. Jeffrey, 21, is a freshman at UNCG and Brittany, 20, is working full time. Twins Mikayla and Nick, 16, and Brett, 15, are students at Northwest High School.

Old School has been a member of the Better Business Bureau since 2006.

Old School Small Job Home Repair“Where no job is too small – we’ll even change a light bulb!”

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

Husband and wife, Jerry Potkay and Lisa Poppa, owners of Old School Small Job Home Repair

(336) [email protected]

oldschoolsjhr.homestead.com





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Jan. 14 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTSas reported by PATTI STOKES

�� Council member Elizabeth McClellan was excused from the meeting on Jan. 14. McClellan recently gave birth to her fourth child, a daughter.

�� Councilwoman Dena Barnes said she would be participating in “Dancing with the Stars,” a fundraiser for Opera-tion Smile, on Feb. 15 and she welcomed contributions for this worthy cause.

�� Town Manager Scott Whitaker announced there would be a meeting in Madison on Jan. 23 regarding the future I-73 project.

�� Troy Stantliff, who will celebrate 50 years of volunteering with the Sum-merfield Fire Department on Jan. 28, was honored for his service to the

town. Mayor Tim Sessoms, former mayor Mark Brown, and Fire Chief Chris Johnson took turns reading portions of a proclamation of appreciation, and Stantliff received a standing ova-tion from those attending the meet-ing, which included many of his fellow firefighters.

�� Linda Southard reported that the Historic committee is seeking more committee members. Work is already underway on the history tent that will be set up at Founders’ Day on May 16-17. Also in the coming months, the commit-tee will be working with veterans from VFW Post 7999 on plans for a Memorial Day ceremony, will be replacing several

of the banners hanging in the historic district, planning the third annual moth-er/daughter tea, and possibly planning a book signing for a young author from the Summerfield area.

�� The Public Safety committee planned to take a tour of the new Dis-trict 1 sheriff’s office on Summerfield Road at its next meeting.

�� The Trails and Open Space committee hopes to get the RFP (Request for Pro-posal) process underway within the next month, and will present more details about its plans for a trail route through Sum-merfield at the February coun-cil meeting.

PUBLIC COMMENTS�� Betty Holder, a resident of the mo-

bile home park on the Gordon property that the town plans to purchase, said she had lived in the mobile home park for 39 years and was aware the property had been for sale, but as she under-stood it, no one had been looking at it.

“I didn’t know it was being sold until someone delivered the Star paper and it told that they were going to bulldoze

houses and it told that people might have to leave in a few weeks,” Holder said. She was making plans to move, she said, but was concerned because her mobile home was too old to have electricity run to it if moved. “We want to know what’s going to be done … are they going to give us anything for the mobile home?” Holder asked.

�� Cheri Pickett said she felt communica-tion was critical, and that council mem-

bers should keep friendships out of their decisions. “Re-garding the Gordon property, I think if this is going to hap-pen and the people have to move, if we could offer them some sort of reloca-tion fee …”

�� Gail Dunham said she had a lot of questions about the Gordon prop-erty, including why the town would pay $400,000 for it (the property consists of two tracts of land, one at 15.66 acres with two houses, a barn and a mobile home park and the other a .35-acre lot which has the former Gordon Hardware building on it). Dunham said the town had not disclosed information it should have regarding the potential purchase and everything was being done “in

We want to know what’s going

to be done … are they going to give us anything

for the mobile home?”Betty Holder

mobile home park resident





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secret.” She also asked if the town had given any consideration to the people who live in the mobile homes on the property, and an environmental assess-ment of the property was not sufficient, nor was 60 days in which to conduct it.

TOWN MANAGER�� Parks Manager Jeff Goard intro-

duced Rick Biggs, who has been hired as a part-time seasonal employee to help with park projects. The town took over its own mowing last year and Biggs, who began working for the town on Jan. 6, will help maintain the properties at the community and athletic parks.

�� Cheri Pickett has volunteered to serve on the Founders Day committee and one more committee member is being sought (if interested, call the town hall at 643-8655 or email [email protected]).

�� Whitaker announced there will be a budget workshop on Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. at the town hall, which will kick off the formal budget process. “There is plenty of opportunity for public input,” said Whitaker. A calendar of future budget meetings will be adopted at the Jan. 30 meeting. Mayor Sessoms emphasized that the meetings would give anyone who wanted input on the budget to have that opportunity. Typically towns in

the northwest area approve the annual budget at their June meetings, which follows several budget meetings and two public hearings.

�� Regarding statements made by citi-zens earlier in the meeting, Mayor Ses-soms and Whitaker both urged anyone with questions about any issues relating to the town to contact them directly (call the town hall at 643-8655, or email Sessoms at [email protected] or Whitaker at [email protected].

�� Mayor Sessoms was appointed to represent the town on the Piedmont Triad Regional Council.

�� The finance office is currently bonded for $50,000, and after further discus-sion the council decided not to increase the amount of bond coverage; council member Alicia Flowers had previously asked about increasing the bond cover-age to $100,000 since the town has $8 million in reserves, but after staff sought the advice of PTOG (Piedmont Triad

Council of Governments) and researched the amount of coverage that other towns have, she said she was satisfied that it wasn’t necessary to spend over $200 more per year to increase the coverage.

�� Before recessing for an executive ses-sion, Mayor Sessoms said, “I would like to comment on the earlier comments from the public. Thank you. Regarding a lot of the questions that were asked, the answers are already in the public domain and we would welcome the opportunity for anyone to call or email us directly, because we do want to have an open discussion, as much as pos-sible. We are in a period of due diligence (referencing the potential purchase of the Gordon property, in which the town has 60 days to perform structural and environmental assessments of the prop-erty and buildings on it before the sale is finalized).

�� Following an executive session lasting about 25 minutes, the council recon-vened and immediately adjourned.

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

Mayor Tim Sessoms (left) and former Mayor Mark Brown, along with Fire Chief Chris Johnson (not shown), present Troy Stantliff with a proclamation of appreciation for 50 years of service.





Submit your events online at

Click “community calendar” on the left-hand side

mark your calendar Bobbie Gardner

CRS/GRI/Relocation SpecialistEcoBroker

(336) 382-5939

www.allentate.com/bobbiegardner

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

Spoil-Me-Rotten ANIMAL CARE, INC.

(336) 643-5242Nancy Brooks, PSI Member

SATURDAY, JAN. 25

zzFood Pantry/Clothes Closet | Good Samaritan Minis-tries of Stokesdale will offer its monthly food pantry and clothes closet for those in need on Jan. 25, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Stokesdale Business Center, 8500 Ellisboro Rd. Those who’d like to donate to the food pantry may purchase a complete box of food from the Bi-Rite in Stokesdale for $25; monetary donations can be sent to Good Samaritan Ministries, P.O. Box 202, Stokesdale, NC 27357. Have clothes to donate to the clothes closet (children’s clothing especially needed)? Contact Terri, 643-5887 or [email protected].

5719 Bunch Rd, Oak Ridge643-5169 • [email protected]

www.westbengoldens.com25 years serving you

Westergaard Kennels

DOG BOARDING

(336) 931-0600BEKPaintCompany.comDavid & Judy Long, owners

References Available • Licensed & Insured All Work Guaranteed

B.E.K. Paint Co.Residential & Commercial

printed annually • online 24/7 at nwobserver.com

COMING LATE JANUARY

Need-to-know, fun-to-know and good-to-know info for northwest-area

residents, all in one place





(336) 707-6652 thelonghousenc.com

Planning a wedding? We can help!

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CENTER

SummerfieldFamilyChiropractic

Dr. Rod C. Brown

336-644-1112www.summerfieldchiro.com

4523 Hwy 220 N • SummerfieldComplimentary Consultations

New Patients Accepted Daily

Karen Nasisse, DVM(336) 643-8984

1692 NC 68N, Suite J, Oak Ridge

NorthwestAnimal Hospital

Compassionate,comprehensive,

state-of-the-art care

...because there’s no place like Home!Client Centered Service Focused Excellence Driven

(336) 209-2668 • RidgewoodRealtyNC.com

calendar continued Carlotta Lytton, CPA, PC

Individual & Corporate Tax ReturnsSpecializing in Payroll & Accounting

for Small Businesses

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

7805 US Hwy 158, [email protected]

SELLERS & BUYERS(336) 643-4248

Dawn StoneOwner/Broker

e-mail: [email protected]

www.ANewDawnRealty.com

We Help Everyone!

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SUNDAY, JAN. 26

zzAA Meeting | Stokesdale Christian Church, 8607 Stokesdale St., holds weekly AA meetings on Sundays at 6:30 p.m. More info: call 392-6676.

zzBroadway Lullaby | The Oak Ridge Youth Theater will present “Broadway Lullaby,” a family comedy drama, on Jan. 26 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Oak Ridge United Methodist Church, 2424 Oak Ridge Rd. No admission fee will be charged, and attendees can enjoy a complimentary dessert buffet. More info: call 255-4445 or email [email protected].

MONDAY, JAN. 27

zzAA and Al-Anon Meetings | Community Lutheran Church of Summerfield, 4960 U.S. 220 N., will host an AA and Al-Anon meeting on Jan. 27 at 8 p.m. More info: call 643-7667.

TUESDAY, JAN. 28

zzBudget Meeting | The Town of Oak Ridge’s finance committee will hold its first budget meeting of the year on Jan. 28 at 6 p.m. at Town Hall, 8315 Linville Rd., to begin discussing the 2014/2015 FY budget. The public is invited.

zzFood and Clothing Drive/Sonshine Room | Sum-merfield United Methodist Church continues to collect food and clothing for its Sonshine Room. Those in need of food, clothing, baby items, toiletries, etc., can stop by the church’s Sonshine Room, which is open the last Tuesday of every month from 2 to 4 p.m. at 2334 Scalesville Rd. More info: call 643-5126.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 29

zzAA Meeting | Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, 2614 Oak Ridge Rd., holds AA meetings on Wednesday at 8 p.m. More info: call 643-3452.

THURSDAY, JAN. 30

zzSpelling Bee | Northern Elementary School in Greens-boro, 3801 Hwy. 150 E., will host a spelling bee on Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. in the gymnasium. More info: email Heather Hosseinzadeh, [email protected].

zzBudget Workshop | The Summerfield Town Council will have a budget workshop on Jan. 30 to begin dis-cussing the 2014/2015 FY budget. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at the Community Center, 5404 Center-field Road in Summerfield.




Start content here if using a new section bar Congratulations Samuel PoolCongressman Howard Coble’s office

recently announced that Samuel Pool, Northwest Guilford High School student, has received an appointment to both

the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., and to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. Samuel is the son of Trevor and Heather Pool of Colfax.

Milam, Engel receive acting awards Two northwest-area actresses are

recent recipients of Piedmont Theatre Guide’s “Best of the Triad” annual awards.

The Promising Young Performer award and the Best Supporting Actress (Community Theatre) award went to Summerfield’s Henson Milam for her role as Eponine in Les Misérables, produced by the Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance.

Milam, 16, has already landed sev-eral key roles in her young acting career and seems bound for many more. A junior at Greensboro Day School, she says some of her favorite theatre credits include Les Misérables (Eponine), pro-duced by the Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance); Shrek (Fiona), produced by Community Theatre of Greensboro; The Wizard of Oz (Dorothy), produced by Community Theatre of Greensboro; Into the Woods (Baker’s Wife), produced by

Open Space Café Theatre; Little Wom-en (Beth March), produced by Open Space Café Theatre; Sweeney Todd (Pirelli), produced by Long Lake Camp for the Arts; and 13 (Lucy), produced by

BUSINESS notes BITS and PIECES

Bits & Pieces

Dr. DeVaney certified in implantology


DeVaney Dentistry at Oak Ridge is proud to announce that Dr. Matt DeVaney is now a fellow member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Dr. DeVaney has been certified and completed a nine-month course comprised of 216 hours

of hands-on implant training at the prestigious Triangle Dental Institute. This allows patients who need dental implants to be able to have the entire process completed in the Oak Ridge of-fice instead of going to multiple offices and doctors.

www.drdevaney.com | 1580 Hwy 68 N, Oak Ridge | (336) 643-5515

We now offer implantsDeVaney Dentistry can now complete your entire implant treatment in our office without referring to another office.

Dr. Matt DeVaney is certified by the prestigious Triangle Dental Institute for implant placement, and is a Fellow Member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI).

See the Business Notes section of this issue of the Northwest Observer for more details

Henson Milam of Summerfield, above, and right

as Eponine in Les Misérables.

Jamaal Johnson, a per-sonal trainer with SNAP

Fitness, shows a potential client the fitness equip-

ment during SNAP’s grand re-opening on Jan.

18. SNAP Fitness, located at 68 Place, 1433-B High-

way 68 North in Oak Ridge, was purchased by Paul Benz and Kimberly

Stoll in November. Photo by

Laura Pullins/NWO





Ernie’s Three Bean Soup

3 strips bacon, cooked (save drippings)

1 medium onion, chopped

1 16-oz. can (each) of kidney beans,

pork and beans

1 small can lima beans

½ cup ketchup, ½ cup brown sugar,

¼ cup vinegar

Saute onion in 2 tsp. of bacon

drippings

Combine beans, ketchup, brown

sugar, vinegar

Crumble bacon into mixture, add

onions and remainder of drippings

Pour into casserole dish or bean

pot and bake for 30 minutes in

350-degree oven

Contributed by Ernie Wall,

retired, Oak Ridge

Grandma’s Ham Stew3 to 4 cups of chicken broth

1 15-oz can tomato sauce

Cubed, cooked ham for flavor

Corn, green beans, lima beans, onions – or any leftover veggies

Canned stewed tomatoes

Okra (put in last to keep it firm)

Salt, pepper, a little vinegar to taste

Simmer slowly on stove all day and serve over white rice

Contributed by: Angela Freeman Blackwell, former student at Oak Ridge Elementary (and now of Plymouth, Mass.)

‘ Comfort food ’ recipesto warm you up on cold winter days

Romanian Monterrey Jack Noodles 16-oz. brick of Monterrey Jack cheese, shredded10- to 12-oz pkg. wide noodles¼ cup milk

Dill weedBread crumbsPreheat oven to 375 degrees

Boil noodles 5 to 7 minutes (not totally soft), drain

In a 1 ½ qt. casserole dish, alternately layer noodles, cheese and dill weedTop with bread crumbs, pour milk over the topBake 15-20 minutes until brown. Serves 4-5Contributed by Bonnie Ramba of Stokesdale (formerly from Pennsylvania). Recipe from husband’s Romanian grandmother.

by HELEN LEDFORD

I remember well those icy days when as a child my siblings and I played out in the snow until my Mama called us in. Always there was a pot of rich vegetable soup bubbling on the stove, and whilewe pulled off our wet clothing and warmed our red

noses, she dished out steaming bowls of it. It was not only a nutritious cold weather body fuel, but so delicious! Here are shared “comfort food” reci-pes that are also sure to please – and made to order for frigid January and February days.




Start content here if using a new section bar Thanks to the coaches and teachers at Northern and Northwest High Schools for their student recommendations and input, which make it possible to recognize these talented, dedicated students for their accomplishments in academics, athletics and cultural arts. Thanks, too, to the student reporters at Northern and Northwest who helped us compile these profiles.

STUDENT PROFILES

NORTHWEST CheerleadingALICIA PERRY, senior

Hometown: GreensboroToughest class: AB CalculusExtracurricular activities: Cheer, chorus, Interact ClubFavorite food: French friesFavorite band: Katy PerryFavorite movie: She’s the ManAny siblings? Two brothers, Michael and Steven

Student Profiles

www.attorneybillbarbour.com

(336) 643-46238004 Linville Rd, Suite E-3

Oak Ridge

Engaged in the general practice of law, including wills, estate planning, trusts, guardianships, probate and administration of estates

and trust, real estate, small business start-ups & contracts

Helping everyday people every day

Now registering for Fall 2014Expanding minds, sparking creativity, building character and faith

Half-day preschool for toddlers through Pre-K

Corner of Battleground Ave and Pisgah Church Rd

(336) 288-3335• mpws.org

Best vacation ever: Tokyo with Bailey ClarkYears in the northwest area: 15Dream job: Physical therapistInteresting/fun fact about yourself: I’m going to UNCW Nickname? “Leesh”Role on the squad: BasePre-game superstition: I can’t practice my stunt or it will not hitCoach Beau Davis comments: “Alicia is the model of a classic cheerleader and sets an example for all teammates with her enthusiasm and team spirit.”

NORTHWEST ChorusSAMUEL PEICKERT, senior

Hometown: Los Angeles, Calif.Toughest class: AP StatsExtracurricular activities: Ultimate FrisbeeFavorite food: BurritosFavorite band: Eli GoldingFavorite movie: The Princess BrideAny siblings? One little sisterBest vacation ever: Europe tourYears in the northwest area: 4Dream job: Preacher/missionary

Interesting/fun fact about yourself: I was born in Guam.Nickname? “Sam”What do you sing in the chorus? Bari-toneChorus teacher Tres Ward’s comments: “Sam is a fantastic student who culti-vates great friendships and always works hard with a great spirit.”

NORTHERN Swimming

MOLLY OSBORNE, junior

Hometown: Moved from New OrleansToughest class: AP EnglishExtracurricular activities: Health Oc-cupations Students of America Club (OSA), tennisFavorite food: PizzaFavorite movie: She’s the ManBest vacation: Cruise to MexicoYears lived in Northern area: 6Dream Job: Physical therapistFun fact: My birthday is on New Year’s EveNickname: “Molls Balls”Role on the team: 100- and 200-meter freestyle Pre-game ritual: Bus singalongsCoach Richard Swor’s comments: “Mol-ly dedicates herself 100 percent to her efforts while in practice. She is a great team swimmer and is willing to lend her expertise to developing members of the team. Her leadership in the 200 free-style and her solid efforts in the relays will help the Northern swim team to be successful at conference and beyond.”

facebook.com/NorthwestObserver

Get. Be. Stay. Connected.





1715 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge | (336) 643-7684

www.oakridgecbc.org

Visit oakridgecbc.org/upward

for more info

Grades 1-8

Last day of evaluations & orientationsSaturday, Jan. 25 • 1-4pm

Every child must attend only one evaluation/ orientation in order to participate

THEFTJAN. 10 | Alamo National Rental Car at PTI Airport reported a 2014 Dodge Cara-van was stolen from the parking lot and later involved in an accident. During the crash investigation it was discovered that the car was stolen; the driver was arrested.

JAN. 15 | A resident of US 158 in Stokesdale reported a known person stole prescription medication from her home. The theft occurred between Jan. 15-20, and the loss is estimated at $100.

JAN. 15 | Supply Chain Management of Colfax reported a 2006 Coachman trail-er, valued at about $2,500, was stolen from the parking lot where it’s normally stored. The theft occurred sometime between Dec. 10, 2013 and Jan. 14.

JAN. 18 | A resident of Autumn Ridge Court in north Greensboro reported his pull-behind trailer, valued at about $1,000, was stolen sometime between Dec. 18, 2013 and Jan. 18 while he was out of the country.

Deadline approaching for Sheriff’s Citizen’s Academy

The Guilford County Sheriff’s Office is offering another Sheriff’s Citizen’s Acad-emy beginning Feb. 6 at the downtown office, located at 400 W. Washington St. The program consists of 20 sessions, with instructional discussions every Thursday from 6:30 to 9:45 p.m., plus four Saturday morning labs. Discussion topics include: the laws of arrest, crime scene investigat-ing, firearm simulation, and more.

“The goal of the academy is to improve law enforcement/community relations through a formalized educational process,”

says Guilford County Sheriff BJ Barnes.Participation is open to any interested

person 18 or older who meets the eligibility requirements. For a copy of the applica-tion and eligibility requirements, visit www.guilfordcountysheriff.com and click the link “Citizen’s Academy.”

The application deadline is Feb. 3, and applications can be mailed to the atten-tion of Sgt. J.C. Fuller / MCpl. Jackson / Cpl. Herndon at the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office, 400 W. Washington St., Greensboro, NC, 27401.

The District 1 Sheriff’s Officehas recently responded to the following incidents in northwest Guilford County.

CRIME / INCIDENT report

Crime/Incident Report

Oak Ridge Business Center 8004 Linville Rd, Suite G, Oak Ridge

(336) 643-7577 or [email protected]

Individual, Corporate, Partnership & Payroll Tax Electronic Tax Filing Estate Planning Bookkeeping & Compilations

26 Years Experience

www.samanderscpa.com

Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC





Submit your editorials (maximum 350 words)e-mail: [email protected] name, phone number and community in which you live.

LETTERS/OPINIONS

New sign better represents handicapped people

Did you know that commissioners in New York are working on a new symbol for the handicapped? The new symbol shows a person in motion, which indi-cates that handicapped people can be and are active.

Massachusetts and New York were first to come up with this and New York plans to adopt it. I think North Carolina should adopt it too.

Logan Doles, OAK RIDGE

Logan is a sixth grade student at Northwest Middle School.

1715 NC 68 N, Oak Ridge(336) 643-7684

www.oakridgecbc.org

8:30am|Traditional service 9:30am|Coffee shop opens 9:45am|Small groups & Sunday school |College group 10:45am|Contemporary worship |NEW Children’s Church 5:30-7pm|AWANA Clubs 6:00pm|“Impact” (grade 6-12) |Informal Bible study

Join us every Sunday

Community Theatre of Greensboro.

Milam attended Carnegie Mellon University’s pre-college program last summer as a musical theatre major. She was one of 12 students chosen from the program to be in a short film titled “UN-KNOWN.” She also made her feature film debut this fall in Crimes and Mister Meanors as Brittany Harvard. When she is not acting, she enjoys ice skating, tap dancing, and traveling to New York City to see shows.

Milam is excited to be the only high school student performing in Greens-boro College’s musical Carrie this Febru-ary as Sue Snell. In May, she will return to Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance to perform her dream role, Natalie, in the musical Next to Normal.

Milam is the daughter of Paul and Virginia Milam of Summerfield.

Piedmont Theatre Guide’s Best Ac-tress (Community Theatre) award went to Oak Ridge’s Amber Engel, for her role as Sally Bowles in Cabaret, produced by Community Theatre of Greensboro.

Engel, 30, is married to Jeremy Engel and has a stepdaughter, Cate, 11, daughter Alora, 5, and son Colin (who we wrote about after learning he was born on Bryan Boulevard), will be 3 on

Valentine’s Day. Now a stay-at-home mom, Engel holds two degrees from UNCG, one in opera performance and the other in music education.

Playing Sally Bowles in Cabaret was Engel’s first major acting role, though she says she had minor operatic roles in college. She is currently the alto sec-tion leader with the Piedmont Chamber Singers in Winston-Salem.

Engel is currently rehearsing for Fan-tine in Les Misérables, which will be pro-duced by the Gallery Players in Burling-ton. The show will be at the Paramount Theatre In downtown Burlington on Feb. 21-23, Feb. 27-28 and March 1-2.

BITS and PIECES ...continued from p. 12

Amber Engel, above,

and right as Sally Bowles in Cabaret,

produced by CTG.

Photo by Laura Pullins/NWO

Northwest Vikings’ Leah Wallace prepares to shoot a free throw in the game against High Point Central on Jan. 17. The Viking girls scored a de-cisive win, 70-20, and are 9-7 for the season.

The Viking boys also won their game against High Point Central, although that game, which ended at 47-45, was a bit more of a nail biter. The boys team is 14-2 for the season.

The Viking boys and girls will play at Southwest on Friday, Jan. 24.




Start content here if using a new section barDelighted or dismayed by something in your community?

Share your thoughts in

40 words or lessonline: nwobserver.com

e-mail: grinsandgripes @nwobserver.com

mail: Grins & Gripes, PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310

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

GRINS to...�� John Masterson, 8th

grade social studies teacher at Berrendo Middle School in Ro-swell, New Mexico, for standing directly in front of a student and convincing him to turn over his shotgun after shoot-ing two other students. Your heroism saved lives.

�� Drivers coming south on Pleasant Ridge Road in Summerfield on week-day mornings. We appreciate you let-ting the cars on Hamburg Mill turn on to Pleasant Ridge at that very crowded intersection!

�� Alison Kerber of Oak Ridge for completing the Goofy marathon at Walt Disney World – 1/2 marathon on Saturday, Jan. 11 and full marathon on Sunday, Jan. 12. You go girl!

�� Northwest Observer editor Patti

Stokes for setting the story straight about the Town of Summerfield’s offer to purchase the land on US 220. The half-truths printed in the “other paper” regarding this matter upset a lot of people.

�� Chris Johnson (Summerfield Fire Chief) for being a hero to all life. We always hear tragic stories of animal abuse, and if there were more com-passionate people in the world like you it would be a great place to live.

�� It’s Trendee in Summerfield. I took the Northwest Observer’s advice to shop local during the holidays and discovered this great little shop on Summerfield Road that supports local artisans. They also get kudos for great customer service!

�� Myself. Instead of burning my yard debris and thus insulting my neighbors with thick bluish acrid smoke (as well as increasing a fire hazard), I had it hauled away to the White Street Landfill. Wish everyone was just as considerate!

GRIPES to...�� Guilford County Schools. On

Thursday, Jan. 16, the five adjacent counties open school on time, yet 2-hour delay for Guil-ford County. Smart decision?? Great use of tax dollars at work?

�� The school bus, Republic, UPS, and FedEx drivers who seem unable to stay on the public streets when driving in residential ar-eas. I know the streets are narrow, but you people are supposed to be pros. I end up having to pay to repair your lack of skill – or concern.

GRINS and GRIPES

StokesdaleLocated at Kings Crossing

7705 Highway 68 N(336) 441-8066

Madison706 Burton Street

(336) 548-6674

Complete Car Care

Our friendly, knowledgeable team of experts is ready to serve you

Tires | Alignments | Tire repair & flat repair

Batteries & electrical system | Brakes | Custom wheels

Oil changes | Tune-ups | State inspection

YOUR COMPLETE AUTO CARE CENTER


EMPLOYMENT

MEDICAL OFFICE, full-time position, will train. Apply Wednesday, January 29 from 11am - 1pm at 4523 Hwy. 220N in Summer-fi eld. No phone calls, please.

Drivers: TEAM DRIVERS NEEDED in the Greensboro area. Excellent hourly pay. $18.94 per hour + $4.46 H&W. Class A CDL & two years experience required in the past fi ve years. EOE/AA. Salmon Com-panies, (800) 251-4301 or apply online at www.salmoncompanies.com.

HIRING? Advertise it here!

NOW HIRING: Full-time Inside Sales Rep-resentative. Part-time Customer Service (several positions available), fl exible hours! Perfect for college student! Part-time Equip-ment Operator, load customers with forklift /loader. Contact: [email protected] with resume or to apply.

REG VET TECH or EXP. VET ASSISTANT needed for busy small animal hospital. Must be willing to work fl exible hours, in-cluding some weekends. Pre-employment drug screen required. Apply in person at 1012 Highway 150 W., Summerfi eld, NC, www.theahlb.com.

Drivers: DEDICATED. Regional & OTR. Start up to $.44/mi + excellent benefi ts. 401K + bonuses. Excellent hometime! CDL-A & 6mos. exp. (877) 704-3773.

HOMECARE AVAILABLE

ELDERCARE AVAILABLE, part-time, fi ve years experience. (336) 643-5586.

ELDERCARE AVAILABLEExperienced with numerous homecare services. References available. Wage & hours negotiable. (336) 707-5245.

HOMECARE NEEDEDHOME CAREGIVER NEEDED for elderly person. References needed. 644-8644.

SAVE THE DATE FAIRY GARDEN WORKSHOPThe Garden Outlet will be having a work-shop on building fun little fairy worlds to take home. Available workshop dates are Jan. 25, Feb. 1, 8, 15, and 22. Please call to schedule your workshop, (336) 643-0898.

Oak Ridge Youth Theatre proudly presents BROADWAY LULLABY, Sunday, Jan. 26, 6:30pm (live music begins at 6:15pm), Oak Ridge United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 2424 Oak Ridge Road. Free ad-mission and dessert buffet. Love offering accepted. Visit www.oakridgeyouththeatre.com for more information.

Somethinggoing on?

Tell northwest Guilford County

Place your Save the Date online at

YOUTH SPORTS

UPWARD Basketball & Cheerleading evaluations, 1st-8th grade, Saturday, Jan-uary 25, 1-4pm, Central Baptist Church, Oak Ridge.

HOME SERVICES

CLEANING

Professional custom cleaning for home & office

Weekly / Biweekly / Monthly Move-Out/Move-In • Detail/Deep

Seasonal • Licensed/Bonded/Insured Customized Services

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

Home Maid, inc.

(336) 441-2047 | [email protected]

NEED HELP?Call (336) 644-7035 ext. 10

Mon-Fri • 9am-2pm

Place online at

Employment ................................ 18

Home Care Available .................. 18

Home Care Needed .................... 18

Save the Date ............................. 18

Youth Sports ................................ 18

Home Services .......................18-20

Misc. Services .............................. 20

Misc. for Sale .........................20-21

Misc. Wanted ............................. 21

Pets/Animals & Services ............... 21

Real Estate .................................. 21

INDEX

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

MARIA’S CLEANING SERVICE. Free es-timates, guaranteed service. 432-4483.

ROSA’S CLEANING SERVICE. 11 yrs. exp. Excellent references. (336) 508-5714.

MAID-2-SHINE. Serving NW area for 10 years. Homes, offi ces, move in/out. Detail oriented, prof, bonded, exc. ref. 338-0223.

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

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

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

CastleWorks WINDOW CLEANINGIncludes gutters, pressure washing, chande-liers and other high ladder work. Fully insured and bonded, free estimates. 609-0677. www.castleworkswindowcleaning.com.

CARPET / UPHOLSTERY / FLOORS 298-7374

RESIDENTIAL AND

COMMERCIALsummerfield

DECORATING

EXPERIENCED INTERIOR DECORATOR& personal furniture shopper will help you with style, color, shopping & furniture place-ment. E-mail [email protected] or call Ann Appenzeller, (336) 314-1411.



HOME SERVICES

FLOORING

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

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

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

Home Improvement & RepairsLicensed & Insured

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Lisa & Jerry Potkay, Stokesdale

(336) [email protected]

oldschoolsjhr.homestead.com

Bathroom Remodeler | Additions | Decks

HOME REPAIR, LLCOLD SCHOOL

GREENERTIMES SMALL ENGINESales & service center. 9428 NC 65, Stokesdale. (336) 312-3844 mobile or (336) 548-9286 offi ce.

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

The Northwest Observer Keeping you connected for 17 years

GRADING / HAULING

ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULINGExcavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt available. Zane Anthony, 362-4035.

BRAD’S BOBCAT SVC. Grading, hauling, gravel/dirt, debris removal. 362-3647.

GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, fi ll dirt, gravel, etc. 362-1150.

HOME SERVICES

GUTTERS / WINDOWS / SIDING

GUTTER CLEANING & LEAF GUARDS. 5 and 6” seamless gutters. Free estimates. Call Gary the Gutter Guy. (336) 345-6518. www.a1copperroofi ng.com.

MAYS SIDINGStorm damage, facia and siding repairs. 215-8776, www.mayssiding.com.

VINYL SIDING REPAIRS, vinyl railings & siding, replacement windows, gutter clean-ing and repair. Please call 215-8776 for your free estimate.

LAWN CARE / LANDSCAPING

MULCH, single-ground, $10 per 3-yard scoop. Tandem load delivered, $100 (about 10 yards). Oak Ridge area, 803-2195.

BRAD’S BOBCAT. Landscaping, driveways, patios, sidewalks, concrete work. 362-3647.

Call Tony - office (336) 215-4531

Snow Removal • Tree Cutting Concrete Sidewalks / Driveways

Landscaping • Lot / Land ClearingStump Grinding / Removal

Bobcat & Dump Truck ServicesLeaf Removal • Parking Lot Cleanup

GreenScapes

STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Locally owned and operated. Lic/ins. 30 yrs. exp. Bucket truck & chipper, total cleanup. 24-hr. emergency svc. OR, NC. 643-1119.

WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Complete lawn care & landscaping. NC lic. irrigation contractor. 20 years exp. Hardscaping, fertilization & weed control. 399-7764.

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

HOME SERVICES

ONE GUY & A MACHINE LAWN CARE and hardscaping. Maintenance, design, paver patios, block walls, hedges trimmed, beds re-edged, pine needles, mulch, pres-sure washing, chemical applications, aerat-ing. Licensed & insured. Free est. Call 382-4767. www.oneguyandamachine.com.

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

D & D LANDSCAPING & IRRIGATIONComplete landscaping services. Retaining walls & patios. Member BBB. NC licensed irrigation contractor. 312-2706.

LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS13-year anniversary special. We will beat your current written price by 15% – guaran-teed! Call (336) 601-3796.

GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCEPine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree prun-ing, complete lawn maintenance. 655-6490.

ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call 382-9875.

ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICETotal tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Bobcat work and more. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. Call Joe at 643-9157.

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

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Get. Be. Stay. Connected.

HOME SERVICES

TLC LAWN CARELawn mowing, fertilization and weed con-trol. General cleanup. Affordable all-season lawn maintenance. (336) 681-0097.

MASONRY

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

SOUTHERN STYLE CONCRETE and Landscape. It’s a perfect time to install a new stamped concrete patio with fi re pit for those cold winter nights, or to install a new driveway before the winter weather arrives. Call Tim for all your concrete needs. (336) 399-6619.

MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS

GAS LOGS, WOOD STOVES & INSERTS, fi replaces, sold, serviced and repaired. Call Don Hill, (336) 643-7183.

336/404-1471www.fmbyjh.com

RESTORATION SPECIALISTS DELIVERING AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE

Cabinet Refacing & Enhancement

Your kitchen and bathroom cabinetry can be refaced or re-colored to create a new look for

your home at a fraction of the cost of replacement.

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

JUNK REMOVAL – appliances, batteries, mowers, cars, electronics, trash removal, etc. Call about free junk removal, 423-3006.

AFFORDABLE HOME REPAIR and remod-eling. Providing electrical, plumbing, carpen-try, painting and handyman services. No job too big or too small. (336) 899-0772.

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


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

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTIONKitchens & baths, rotted wood, decks, siding, windows, fall roofi ng specialist. Sr. discounts, 35 years exp. 362-6343.

MOBILE WELDING SERVICE Residential, wrought-iron fence & gates, custom fabrication, stainless aluminium. Chuck, triadmobilewelding.com, 362-8679.

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Find us on facebook for updates!

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ROOFING

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

RED RHINO ROOFING, based in Oak Ridge, NC. Storm damage specialist ex-perienced with all types of roofi ng. BBB ac-credited A and listed with Angie’s List. Call 662-7980, or visit redrhinoroofi ng.com.

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

MISC. SERVICES

CORPORATE & PERSONAL TAX PREP, federal and state tax mediation, IRS/DOR, full accounting and payroll services, 37 years exp. Carolina Bookkeeping, 600 Washinton St., Eden NC. (336) 627-8969.

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

MISC. SERVICES

NICOL CHRISTIAN SALON & BOUTIQUETina Harvell, owner, hairstylist, color spe-cialist. 3054 Pleasant Ridge Road, Sum-merfi eld, NC 27358. (336) 312-3846.

small group fitness personal training

RealRyder® indoor cycle TRX training

Cathy Gold (336) 549-64604446 US Hwy 220 N, Summerfield

www.goldstandard4fitness.com COMPUTER REPAIRS $99.Used computers, website design. Info at ITBASICS.COM – (336) 643-0068. Inside Mailboxes & More, Oak Ridge Commons.

(336) 643-9963 • 8207 B & G Court, Stokesdale

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

available here

We carry moving & shipping supplies

MISC. FOR SALEGE Profi le Artica STAINLESS REFRIG-ERATOR, freezer on top. 68” high, 36” wide, 31” deep. Excellent condition. $400. Call Mike, (336) 687-6006. Oak Ridge.

MOVING SALE! Reclining leather love-seat, dining set, computer desk, king-size bedding, dishes, chairs & more. Must be picked up by Jan. 27. (336) 644-0124.

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

HOME SERVICES

Triad Garage Doors SALES, SERVICE & INSTALLATIONS

(336) 501-6025www.triadgaragedoors.com

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

Tell our readers about your business!

Classifi eds are just $4/line!

Place your ad online at

www.nwobserver.com,

or call Laura, 644-7035, ext. 10.

PAINTING & DRYWALL

STILL PERFECTION PAINTINGReliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pres-sure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, 462-3683 or stillperfectionpainting.com.

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

Need some help? Email classifi [email protected]

PLUMBING

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

BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLARNo job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic/Ins. Call Mark for savings. 337-7924.

POWER WASHING

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

HOME SERVICES

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION26 years experience. Specializing in room additions, garages, vinyl siding and win-dows, painting, ceramic tile, laminate, hard-wood and linoleum fl oors, and remodeling of all kinds. No job too small. Free est.

Call 644-1943 or cell 362-7469.

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONSLicensed & Insured

644-8615 (office)

508-5242 (mobile)

NC General Contractor License #72797

TM Construction Services, INC.

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

TRIPP SMITH CONSTRUCTION, LLC. Licensed general contractor with college degree in construction management and 18 years of experience. Specializing in decks, garages, additions, remodels, new construction, residential & commercial. No job too large or too small. Free estimates. (336) 399-4894, [email protected].

ON-TARGET

Construction Services, Inc.

Roof Replacements / RepairsSiding & WindowsCustom Decks / PorchesGeneral Home RepairsRemodeling / Painting

ON-TARGETCONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC.

FREE EstimatesInsured & Dependable

30 yrs exp • Workmanship guarantee • Insurance specialists

(336) 644-1580


MISC. FOR SALEFIREWOOD

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

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

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

submit your ad at

Got stuff?Sell it here in theclassifieds

MISC. WANTED

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

FRUSTRATED THERE’S NO YOGA in Oak Ridge? Email if you’d like to take or teach a class: [email protected].

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

Your NWO on the Go photos! Where do you take your

Northwest Observer? Email your vacation photos to

[email protected].

PET / ANIMAL SERVICES

IN NEED OF A FAMILY

ROCKY is a 7-year, 10-month old Boxer mix who enjoys spending time with people and going on walks. He gets jealous eas-ily, so he prefers to be the only dog in the house. Rocky will be neutered as part of his adoption fee. For more information on Rocky or other animals looking for a home, visit www.adoptshelterpets.org, or call the Guilford County Animal Shelter at (336) 297-5020.

PET SITTING & BOARDING

SPOIL-ME-ROTTEN ANIMAL CAREMotto: love, compassion, respect for your pets. Professional pet sitter for 18 years. Bonded/Insured. Member, Pet Sitters Intl. Provide food, exercise, play, meds/shots, much TLC. 1-3 trips/day. $15/trip (30 min). Call 643-5242. Oak Ridge/Summerfi eld.

REAL ESTATE

HOMES FOR RENT

STOKESDALE, 3BR, 2BA, 1-acre lot in Stokesdale subdivision, $1,100/month. Rockingham County school district. [email protected].

Selling or Renting? Reach all of northwest Guilford County right here! Classifi eds are just $4/line,

and can be placed online at www.nwobserver.com.

REAL ESTATE

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

COMMERCIAL RENTAL AVAILABLE!Located on Highway 158 in downtown Stokesdale. 4,200+ sf available for rent in excellent location. Great location for busi-ness – doctors, accountants, lawyers, real-tors, fi nancial. Absolutely beautiful stand-alone building. Call (336) 544-2724 or (561) 254-4387.

REAL ESTATE

5715 Hidden Orchard DrivePerfect home for everyone! Custom appointments, great location, in immaculate condition. Main-level master, 3/4 bedrooms, floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, jetted tub, granite, etc. Great storage and fenced, level yard. Offered at $319,500.

DYNAMITE NEW LISTING!

NANCY HESS, Realtor®

(336) 215-1820

Yes! The FINDER is the only local directory specific to northwest Guilford County.

printed annually • online 24/7 at nwobserver.com

Is there one place I can go to find businesses, services and organizations in my area?





It’s that old inefficient heating system eating away at your savings

(336) 643-8100 | Stokesdale

Sales, Service & Installation • 24-Hour Emergency ServiceService Agreements • Duct Testing • Free EstimatesAll Work Guaranteed • Licensed, Bonded & Insured

WE OFFER FINANCING

* Offer good during normal business hours. Expires 1/31/14

$75service call*

when you mention this ad

Heating & A/C • Commercial & Residential

VELOCITY Air, Inc.

Sometimes you have to create your own upturn in the economy, and that’s

something we’ve tried to do.”David Wrenn, owner

Bi-Rite Galaxy, Stokesdale

RESPONSES ...continued from p. 1

“In 2013, we were blessed with sever-al closings every month. Our agents had to work much harder and be proactive to bring our clients to the closing table while working with the banks, but we were able to make it happen.

“I think we’re seeing a true upturn in the economy. Our phones are busy. Our agents are busy. Land, includ-ing acreage and lots are finally selling again. There is new construction all around us. We have even seen a small increase in sales of com-mercial properties. We have been blessed to be a part of these increases.

“We plan for 2014 to be our best year

since 2008. Our state of mind will have a lot to do with this increase. We plan to grow even more this year by working smarter and using all our resources to help our clients have as little stress as possible getting their loans closed. If you stay on top of everything, it creates a fun atmo-sphere instead of a load of stress. The only way you can do this is to touch every

deal, every day and communicate with all people involved in every area, from inspections right up to the day of closing.”

Dawn Stone, Realtor/owner

A New Dawn Realty Stokesdale

“Our business in 2013 was stable, which is a lot to be thankful for in com-mercial real estate. We grow with the community and construction is com-ing back slowly in Oak Ridge, which

foretells growth in 2014. We see the need for several new services such as the orthodontist opening in the near future. By nature, we are optimistic about now and the long term.”

Jerry Cooke, owner Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center

J.P. Monroe, LLC, Oak Ridge

“We saw increases in 2013 over prior years. I’m thankful to our loyal custom-ers for that. Sometimes you have to create your own upturn in the economy, and that’s something we’ve tried to do.

“In the past year, I have invested a large amount on new equipment and as a result I have to see business increas-ing in 2014. To make that happen, we’ll continue to keep giving great deals and providing quality products.”

David Wrenn, owner Bi-Rite Galaxy, Stokesdale

“Last year was a good year for my business, which was a continuation of 2012.“ Overall, I think our local economy is improving, but it’s a slow improvement. If more jobs were available in this area, I think we would see a faster recovery.

“From what I’m seeing now, 2014 promises to be another good year for my business. I plan to be proactive in finding people who are seeking financial advice and then work with them to develop sound financial plans. Across the country, ap-proximately 10,000 baby boomers retire every single day. Many of these people are looking for financial advice.

“One of my greatest strengths is building trusting relationships with my clients and staying in frequent commu-nication – both during good times and bad times. I think people appreciate the fact that you’re there to provide advice and guidance to help them navigate through any financial storm.

David Bowman, financial advisor Edward Jones, Oak Ridge

“We did really well in 2013 – in fact, we had a 30 percent increase in calls and sales. Right now, we’re seeing a decline in business but that’s based on the weather and recent holidays. We’re hoping for and expecting growth for the coming year. To meet those anticipated needs, we’re look-ing at expanding our business and further improving our service.”

Jerry Potkay, owner Old School Small Job Home Repair

Stokesdale

“We opened in 2009 right in the middle of the Great Recession. The fact that we’re still here after five years says a lot for a small business like ours. In 2013, we held our own. We struggled with both the economy and losses in business that we incurred due to Goodwill moving into the shopping center.

“We’ve stayed in business by chang-ing our strategy and expanding our offerings. Not only have we added home furnishings and antiques, but we’ve become even more selective about the clothing we take.

“Something else that’s helped us has been a change in people’s attitudes. I see people are really starting to go back to liking old things. It seems like we’re becoming less of a disposable society. My business partner, Paul, is extremely good at refurbishing and repurposing furniture and that’s been a highly valu-able skill in making the business more profitable.

“So far in 2014, we’re seeing a little bit of an upturn. We have more traffic, but it takes a really long time for people to even know you exist. One thing that would really help the area is if more people patronized the local businesses. When a local business goes out, I hear people talk about how they miss that business. Well, it’s too late then. If we all want a local economy with strong and diversified businesses, we need to make sure our dollars stay in the community.”

Lisa Brulotte, owner Crossroads Consignments, Oak Ridge






display advertiser index

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

A/C & HeAtingStokesdale Heating & Air .......................5Velocity Air, Inc. ...................................22

ACCountingCarlotta Lytton, CPA, PA .....................11Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC .......15

Auto serviCeTire Max Complete Car Care ...............17

CHiroprACtiCOak Ridge Chiropractic .........................4Summerfield Family Chiropractic .........11

CHurCHesCentral Baptist Church ..................15, 16Oak Ridge United Methodist Church .....6

dentistsDevaney Family Dentistry ....................12

Home produCts & serviCesBEK Paint ............................................10Old School Small Job Home Repair .......7ProStone Inc. ........................................8

insurAnCeGladwell Insurance Agency....................9Triad Insurance ......................................3

LegAL serviCesAttorney Bill Barbour ...........................14

mediCAL LeBauer HealthCare ..............................5

misCeLLAneousCommercial Property .............................8UNC School of the Arts .........................3

pet serviCesCountry Kennel ...................................11Northwest Animal Hospital ..................11Spoil-Me-Rotten Animal Care, Inc. ......10Westergaard Kennels ...........................10

pubLisHing Co / newspAperThe Northwest FINDER .......................10The Northwest Observer ......................24

reAL estAte / mortgAgeA New Dawn Realty ............................11Bobbie Gardner / Allen Tate ................10Nancy Hess / Keller Williams ...............21Ramily Siegel, Allen Tate .......................9Ridgewood Realty................................11

restAurAntsRuby Tuesday .................................Insert

retAiL BiRite Food Center ................................2

sCHooLs / presCHooLsMt. Pisgah Weekday School.................14

speCiAL events CenterThe Longhouse ...................................11

For advertising information, contact Laura Troeger, associate publisher

(336) 644-7035, ext. 10 | [email protected]

Stokesdale

Oak Ridge

Summerfield

Advertise in a relevant, widely read publication that is directly mailed to 10,500 homes and distributed for free pickup

Target northwest Guilford County

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDOak Ridge, NCPermit No. 22

ECRWSS

Postal Patron

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

NWO On The Go!

Where do you takeyour Northwest Observer?

Email your photo to [email protected]

Where do you takeyour Northwest Observer?

Email your photo to [email protected]

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Where do you take

Where do you take

Becky Grammer and Kathy Linville caught up on the local news while visiting the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland.

Dick Schroer of Oak Ridge was in Antarctica for two weeks in December 2013, and of course he took the Northwest Observer along to keep him warm!

The Molnar family and their friends Caroline Donato and

Colét Wagoner, all of Summer-field, took a breather to read the

Northwest Observer in front of Old Faithful in Yellowstone

National Park, Wyoming. (Front row, left to right, ladies) Kaitlyn Molnar, Colét Wagoner, Caro-

line Donato, Maggie Molnar; (Back row, left to right, men) Mi-

chael Molnar, Matthew Molnar, Christopher Molnar.

northwest observer | january 24 - 30, 2014

Documents

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malone credits god

tractorrelated accidents

new year

economy turnaround

business notes