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The Roanoke Star-Sentinel April 8 - 14, 2011

Community | News | Per spective

NewsRoanoke.com

[Virginia Tech]

Rebirth of Solitude Rachel’s Choice

Virginia Redistricting Puzzle Nears Completion

Senators Roscoe Reynolds and Ralph Smith, and Delegates Lacey Putney, Rob Bell and Todd Gilbert.

P3– Craig Scott who’s sister Rachel was killed in the Columbine High School shootings brings a powerful message to Northside.

Senator Ralph Smith of Botetourt County would live in Republican Senator Steve Newman’s district if the present redistricting plan holds up.

Smith was adamant and unflappable w h e n State Gov’t asked if he would move and challenge someone else in another district.

“My desire is that Steve Newman returns to the Senate – that Bill Stanley returns to the Senate – and I return to the Senate. We have a plan that will make that work,” said Smith. He said to sort his comment out between the lines.

“This is the leading plan but not necessarily ‘the’ plan,” said Smith.

The hearing at Roanoke’s Higher Education Center

[

H. Bruce Rinker, PhD

Energy Plan P4– Dr. Bruce Rinker spells out a compelling strategy for the US that includes nuclear power in the short term, transitioning to 100% renewable resources.

Rail Resident P8– Californian Andy Fletcher is the Virginia Museum of Transportation’s first rail artist in residence.

Just as all of us in Southwest Virginia must get through winter to reach the spring glory that awaits, the viewer of the picture above must look through empty branches to discern the beauty of “Solitude” - Virginia Tech’s original home just on the other side of the water. Our spring picture becomes clearer this weekend as warm air returns. irginia Tech celebrated the restoration and reopening of its oldest structure, “Solitude” last week - part of which was built circa 1801. In 1872, the $21,250 purchase of Solitude and about 250 surrounding acres provided a home for the “Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College,” the land-grant institution now known as Virginia Tech.

“As a land-grant university, part of our mission is to engage with the region,” said Sue Ott Rowlands, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, who along with Provost Mark McNamee was one of several speakers at the formal re-opening last week. “Solitude represents our ability to connect to the past, to families that originally settled this area, and to families that currently are still living and working here.” > CONTINUED P2: Rebirth

V

Pinwheel Garden Drives Home Serious Message

April is Child Abuse Prevenproviding for basic needs like tion Month, a point that Chilfood and clothing can often dren’s Trust Roanoke Valley make a difference. aims to drive home with a “garThe Children’s Trust role den” of 500 pinwheels that were is intervention and child adplanted in a plot at Virginia vocacy, often working with Western Community College’s local social service and law arboretum on Monday. This enforcement agencies. Part of is the second year that the pinthat role for the Trust, which is wheel display was planted at the located in the Jefferson Center, school. is providing a “child friendly Many people may not think environment,” where interthat child abuse and neglect is a views and investigations can major problem in the Roanoke take place. Children’s Trust Valley, but from July 2009 to Roanoke Valley merged with June 2010 the Roanoke City and CASA (Court Appointed SpeRoanoke County departments Photo by Gene Marrano cial Advocates) several years of social services (each locality The Pinwheel Garden at Virginia Western carries an important ago; that part of the agency has its own agency) reported that message about child abuse. helps place children when necthey received more than 2000 reessary in another home. many children wind up being taken away ports to the contrary.

Among those planting pinMore than 300 merited a special inves- from their parents, but said the real goal in wheels were students from a Masters in tigation, according to Children’s Trust any case “is to keep the families together Social Work proRoanoke Valley executive director Janice if at all possible – at least some portion of gram at Radford > CONTINUED Dinkins-Davidson. She is not sure how the family.” Parenting classes or counseling, University.

“We P2: Pinwheel

Blue Collar Joe’s “Goes Nationwide”

Double Duty P9– In addition to being the Music Director at Second Presbyterian, Dr Jeffrey Sandborg keeps two choirs in perfect harmony at Roanoke College.

A second location – this one the Food Network. The show airs in Roanoke City - and an ap- on Sunday, April 10 at 8 p.m. pearance on national TV means Blue Collar Joe’s, for those who that April will not be the cruel- might have missed out on one est month for Botetourt Coun- of the area’s neatest and tastiest ty’s own designer of delectable treats, is located in Daleville on doughnuts. Instead, it likely US 220. In 2008 Knight convertwill be one of Daniel ed a gas station into Knight’s finest hours. the eatery. He offers Community The owner of Blue scrumptious cake-like Collar Joe’s confirmed signature doughnuts, last week that he plans to open a homemade chicken salad, hot downtown location, though he dogs, and other items for those would not reveal exactly where wanting tasty items to complete and when it would open. He their day. He also serves up will also be one of four featured themed doughnut cakes, like the Photo by Anita Firebaugh doughnut makers on an episode > CONTINUED Daniel Knight will open a Roanoke store and appear on of Food Network Challenge on P2: Blue Collar national Television on April 10th.

[

]

]

> CONTINUED P2: Redistricting

Water Features Proposed for Elmwood Park A permanent tent style stage/amphitheater for Elmwood Park is what City Manager Chris Morrill suggested to Roanoke City Council at Monday morning’s briefing.

The only problem with such a structure, “is to get the acoustics right,” said Morrill.

Buildings, trees and slopes have to be taken into consideration for the acoustics. The stage will not just be used for large concerts. “To City Gov’t make it multi-use can be a real challenge but it can be done,” Morrill explained.

Morrill was careful to say that as many trees as possible will be kept while grading the hill and terracing for seating.

Residents have expressed concern over the removal of the shade trees.

The key is to have people still want to visit the park even when there are no events.

“Create active daily use,” said Morrill. Relate it to the library better and create a space when programs are not going

[

> CONTINUED P3: Council

]

> Rebirth

Page 2 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 4/8/11 - 4/14/11

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be doing it… I’m really interested in the forward movement of child protection in our country.”

She said that in general social service agencies nationwide are doing a better job of recognizing child abuse, and a better job in preventing it initially. Raising the awareness level about child abuse in the community is a major factor – and that’s where the pinwheels came in. “Communities have become much more interested in the issue, and are more willing to talk about it.”

The data is still new but Din-

kins-Davidson said there is a “direct correlation,” between the poor economy and an uptick in reports of child abuse, as families deal with tightening budgets and more stress. “Particularly for families that are on the edge and already at risk.”

“If you can prevent child abuse you don’t wind up with a child victim,” said DinkinsDavidson. She noted that the pinwheel, a child’s toy, is recognized nationally as the symbol of child abuse prevention. They were also planted said Dinkins-

Pasta d Lovers n a L h Salads Fin Fis Sandwiches h s i F Shell

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Davidson, “to celebrate the happy and healthy children in our community, because we do have a community that’s very pro-child.”

The Virginia Western plot is plainly visible to drivers passing by on Colonial Avenue, a gentle reminder (along with an accompanying banner) that April is Child Abuse Prevention Month.

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

From page 1

place and expects the show to be nothing like what he experienced. The winner of the competition receives $10,000 and a gold medal.

The shoot took place in Colorado in November. Knight drove out early in order to acclimate to the higher climate (about a mile high) and to relax before undertaking what turned out to be a taxing, though fun, event. He and three other competitors “hit it off really well,” and the show’s makers have informed Knight that they have a great episode.

“We had so much fun, it was ridiculous,” he said.

Because of a confidentiality agreement, he would not reveal who won or what type of doughnut he created. Blue Collar Joe’s is famous for concoctions dripping with chocolate and bearing names like the Botetourt Bog. Could this be the next national craze?

With a second location and the TV appearance, 2011 is looking like it will be a better year than 2010. A year ago, Knight found himself in the hospital after a fire

> Redistricting held about 50 people Thursday evening. Sixteen people spoke. All were unanimous in their disapproval of the plan.

The main gripe was the splitting of precincts that would be a burden on registrars and cause confusion for voters. It would also lead to some split precincts having fewer than 500 registered voters.

Follow precinct lines – what’s so hard about that the speakers asked.

Ron Adkins, Secretary of the Roanoke County Electoral Board was frustrated. This

is generally how we see it today, though I believe a few additional, minor changes were made in the 1870s” Ferguson said.

Located by the Duck Pond in one of the most scenic spots on campus, Solitude is sometimes referred to as the university’s “home place.”

Elizabeth Fine, a professor and former director of the Appalachian Studies Program, worked on several grants and fundraising activities that provided restoration money. Her office was in Solitude in the mid-1990s, before the building was closed pending repairs.

“It’s a perfect place to highlight the Appalachian heritage of the region, and it’s so beautiful,” she said of Solitude.

Several parking lots located near Solitude are available to those with faculty/ staff parking permits or visitors who pick up free parking passes at the Visitor Information Center, located on Southgate Drive and open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitor passes may also be obtained from the Virginia Tech Police Station, located on Sterrett Drive, outside of the Visitor Information Center hours.

From page 1

> Blue Collar custom “Jamaican cake”, a vision of a newly wed couple on a sunset beach, complete with tree frogs to complement the bride’s tattoo.

Appearing on national TV will be quite a treat for the likeable Knight. “I’m really curious to see the show myself to see what happened,” he said. “We had cameras following us everywhere for about three days and I figure they have 95 hours of video to distill down into a 48 minute show.” He has no idea what kind of editing will take

NewsRoanoke.com

lachian Studies Program. The rest of the first floor will be decorated with furnishings in keeping with the historic nature of the building. One exhibit room on the first floor contains materials from the Earl Palmer Appalachian Photograph and Artifact Collection and a piece of furniture that was in the house before it was sold to the college by Col. Robert Preston.

3North, an architectural firm from Richmond that specializes in historic preservation, designed the restoration.

South End Construction of Roanoke repaired the exterior. Snyder and Associates of Blacksburg handled the interior. Extensive repairs were made to the foundation.

New electrical, plumbing, and heating systems were installed. Problems with the roof, chimney, and siding were also addressed.

Solitude is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building is also a Virginia Historic Landmark. It has been enlarged several times, but initially was a frontier-style log cabin.

Most of the original structure was covered up during various additions, but some original logs are visible inside the building’s basement, said university Capital Project Manager Bruce Ferguson.

“In the 1850s, modifications to the house gave it the Greek Revival look that

Solitude served as a college infirmary from 1882 to 1886. Faculty members lived in it for about the next 60 years. It briefly was a clubhouse for returning World War II veterans, who lived in trailers surrounding the building, while attending what then was called Virginia Polytechnic Institute. At that time, dances regularly were held in Solitude’s two front parlors.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Solitude was used by the Hokie Club.

Academic programs started using the building in 1974. For some time, Solitude housed a human nutrition and food laboratory and interior design studios and offices. Its last occupant was the Appalachian Studies Program, which has returned and is now housed on the second floor. Professor Bert Rodriguez of the College of Architecture and Urban Studies, who specializes in historic preservation, also has an office there.

“Solitude stands as a material witness to many important chapters in the history of southwestern Virginia and of Appalachia in particular,” Rodriguez said.

The building’s front parlor on the ground floor eventually will be outfitted with reproductions of historical furniture “to make it evocative of what it looked like in 1872,” said Anita Puckett, an associate professor who directs the Appa-

chose child abuse [as a school project],” said Sammi Rader, who saw the pinwheel plot as a way “to help create awareness in our community, to get the word out there about child abuse.” Oak Grove Elementary School principal Chris Flippen also lent a hand. “It’s gorgeous,” she said, as the silver and blue pinwheels shimmered in the morning sun.

Dinkins-Davidson came to the Trust almost a decade ago after a long career in non-profit work elsewhere. “I’m happy to

From page 1

> Pinwheel

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burned his house to the ground.

“I got through it with the grace of God and an amazingly heroic neighbor,” he said. “I walked away from it and I am not a pile of ashes.” He and his wife, Pru, are rebuilding their home and expect to move in this August.

He plans to keep the original location in Daleville and told his customers not to worry. “Daleville is our home,” he said. He’s not going anywhere. His many fans will be glad of that.

By Anita Firebaugh info@newsroanoke.com

From page 1

was the third hearing he had attended and saw nothing resembling keeping the integrity of an area “where all things should be together.”

“I don’t think whoever is doing this … gives a hoot about the citizens of Virginia, about keeping it in a contact area that has relationships with one location or another,” he said.

Adkins estimated it would cost Roanoke County up to $50,000 to do mailings to voters explaining where they need to go vote.

Retired Judge Richard Pattisall received applause when he calmly spelled out the redistricting principals of the U.S. Supreme Court. The principals he said are “compactness, congruity, preserva-

tion of political subdivisions, preservation of communities of interest, preservation of core prior districts and compliance with the Voting Rights Act.” Judge Pattisall, from a legal point of view, explained that preserving compact, contiguous districts and avoiding unnecessary splitting and dividing of magisterial districts and precincts was “the goal and not the exception.”

“You need to speed the process up some,” Pete Hubert, the County Administrator of Pulaski told the hearing committee. The deadline for localities to submit their local redistricting plans is April 29. “If you could just use the precincts that are picked by the locality as the basis for

what is done by the state … that would help us from an administrative standpoint,” pleaded Hubert.

Senators Roscoe Reynolds, D-Henry County, Smith, and Delegates Rob Bell, RCharlottesville, Todd Gilbert, R-Shenandoah County, and Lacey Putney, I-Bedford seemed disinterested in what the speakers had to say.

Tuesday Salem Delegate Greg Habeeb said that the House redistricting plan passed with bipartisan approval on its second reading 80-10. “It’s a good plan … our process was much more open then the Senate’s and it shows,” said Habeeb.

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4/8/11 - 4/14/11 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 3

NewsRoanoke.com

Author Homer Hickam to Honor > Council Teachers During McGlothlin Awards Celebrated author Homer Hickam will be the keynote speaker at Radford University on Tuesday evening, April 12, when two teachers from the Blue Ridge PBS region will be chosen as $25,000 winners of the 2011 McGlothlin Awards for Teaching Excellence. This is the 12th anniversary of the McGlothlin Awards. The awards ceremony, which is open to the public, begins at 6 p.m. There will also be a question and answer session for educators with Hickam at 4 p.m. and a book signing at 5 p.m.

“Blue Ridge PBS is proud to partner with Radford University and the McGlothlin Foundation to celebrate all the talented teachers in our region, and select two of the best for the 2011 McGlothlin Awards,” said Dr. Rose Martin, director of education services for the station.

“Homer Hickam, who grew up nearby in Coalwood, W.V., is a wonderful example of how our local teachers are inspiring students every day.”

Hickam is the best-selling author of the book “Rocket Boys,” which was made into the awardwinning movie “October Sky.” His keynote address, titled “October Sky: Turning Dreams into Realities” includes recollections about how he benefitted from inspiring educators, the unsung heroes who motivate students to launch their dreams. Hickam’s high school science teacher Freida Riley at Big Creek High School in Coalwood encouraged him and the other “rocket boys” to work hard and pursue

Homer Hickam their passions. She gave them a book about rocket design and helped them to enter the National Science Fair, where they won a first-place medal in 1960.

“I believe there are many Freida Rileys out there who are doing the same, under appreciated job she did forty years ago and doing it just as well,” Hickam wrote in a 1999 open letter to teachers. “Because of that, I believe our nation's children are heading for the stars. When they get there, I believe they will do so with their teacher's names on their lips. And it is right that they do so.”

Thomas D. McGlothlin, president of the McGlothlin Foundation in Bristol, Va., said the annual teaching awards are intended to recognize the best teachers for their work, reward them for it, and by so doing inspire others to the high qualities they exemplify. Hickam’s “Rocket Boys” story, McGlothlin recalled, motivated him to establish the awards more than 10 years ago.

"It's very appropriate to have Homer Hickam as our speaker

for the Teachers Awards Ceremony this year,” added McGlothlin. “His teacher, Mrs. Riley, played a very inspirational role in his life, just as the teachers we desire to honor, play, on a daily basis, in the lives of all the students they teach."

The two $25,000 prizes, among the largest teaching prizes in the United States, are given to the top elementary and secondary school teachers, with the stipulation that $10,000 be used for international travel. Providing international travel experiences is a significant goal of the McGlothlin Awards, offering winning teachers a chance to broaden their thinking and further enhance their excellence as professional educators. This year four McGlothlin finalists will also be recognized, each presented with a trophy and a check for $1,000.

To be eligible for the McGlothlin Awards, teachers must be full-time elementary or secondary school teachers of core curriculum from select public school districts. Eligible districts, located within the Blue Ridge PBS broadcast area, include schools in 41 Virginia counties and cities, as well as some neighboring locations in Kentucky, Tennessee and West Virginia. Additionally, teachers must have five years experience and intend to remain in the profession.

For more information visit www.BlueRidgePBS.org.

Rachel’s Choice Delivers Powerful Message

Craig Scott told the story with humor, with poignancy, a sense of deep respect and obvious love for his late sister, at the regional YADAPP conference last Saturday. The YADAPP (Youth Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Project) event, geared towards Roanoke County middle school students, presented a series of workshops and a battle of the bands, with the theme of preventing or avoiding abusive behaviors: drinking, drugging and bullying, at Northside High School.

“We’ve got people from as far away as Martinsville and Tazewell,” said Roanoke County Prevention Council coordinator Nancy Hans. The Council, the Virginia Department of Alcohol Beverage Control and RAYSAC (Roanoke Area Youth Substance Abuse Coalition) co-sponsored the regional conference.

The highlight of the program was the keynote address

by Craig Scott, who on April 20,1999 was a student at Columbine High School in Colorado, when two high school gunmen from the same school killed 13 of Scott’s classmates. He was in the same room where ten were shot down and had blood spattered on him. Two of his close friends died that day. Twenty seven others were wounded.

Among the dead was his sister Rachel, one year his senior, as she sat outside eating lunch, enjoying the first warm day of spring that year. Murdered at 17, Rachel Scott was an avid journal writer, often composing entries about acceptance, compassion, God and wanting to make a difference. “Compassion and honesty go hand in hand,” she wrote.

In a bit of tragic irony she compared herself to Anne Frank, another teenager who wanted to make a difference, but like Rachel, wasn’t sure how long she would be on this earth.

Frank hid with her family from the Nazis in World War II and died in a concentration camp.

“Just passing by, just coming through [this world],” Rachel once wrote.

Her funeral, televised on CNN, drew that cable TV network’s largest audience ever at the time.

“She had a lot of goals in life,” said Craig Scott, who implored his audience to “peel off negative labels.” His sister was often derided at school because she reached out to others that were

Photo by Gene Marrano

Craig Scott on stage at Northside with a family photo showing (L-R) younger brother Michael, Rachel and himself from happier days. not popular. She also asked God in her journals “to use me to reach the unreached.” Her brother said Rachel even began losing friends at Columbine because “she started to do what was right” when it came to life choices.

Craig told the 100 or so students on hand that Rachel had befriended the unpopular kids at school, perhaps preventing one teen from taking his own life along the way. Then she was gone. Since then Craig Scott and other family members have toured schools across the country with “Rachel’s Choice,” a program all about compassion, tolerance and acceptance. In a journal she also urged others to stay true to their inner beliefs.

“Don’t let your character change color with your environment,” she wrote.

He told it with the help of videos, audience participation and what he called “white boy dancing” on stage at Northside, interspersed with images of Rachel and excerpts from her journals. A picture Rachel drew several hours before she was gunned down, in an art class, was prophetic almost beyond imagination: She drew her own eyes shedding 13 tears – the same number of students that died before Dylan Kleibold and

Eric Harris took their own lives – raining down on a rose, which was dripping blood.

Harris and Kleibold felt like outsiders and withdrew from others at Columbine, and from their families, before they went on a suicidal killing spree that shocked the nation and the world. Craig Scott urged the teens on hand not to do the same, to not withdraw when they need others for support.

“You cannot even realize the full amount of purpose that you have,” he said.

“Show kindness and compassion to others,” Rachel Scott implored in one of her journals.

“You might start a chain reaction,” she wrote. Added her kid brother from the Northside stage: “she was a teenage girl that believed she could make a difference.” In death she may be doing just that as her family brings a message of compassion and acceptance to teenaged audiences around the country.

“I’m going to have an impact on the world,’ Rachel had predicted in her journal.

By the look of those in attendance at Northside, there is very little doubt of that.

on. The park as it exists now is closed-in and “the public’s perception is that the park is not safe,” said Morrill.

“It’s not about making it pretty – it’s about people,” said Morrill. His presentation pictured several variations of possible water features for children to play in. “You want something that kids can run right into,” he said.

The internal team will include a design team composed of Parks and Recreation, City Engineer Phil Shermer, Sheila Umberger, Director of Libraries, Debbie Moses City Parking Coordinator, Mark Jamison, Traffic Engineer and Susan Jennings, Public Art Coordinator. All the stakeholders who currently use Elmwood Park will be consulted.

“Public spaces evolve over time,” said Morrill. He praised city council for being more realistic in their less expensive approach.

There is $1.2 million previously dedicated for architectural and engineering on the original $12.2 million, 5000 seat amphitheater that resulted from a $211,500 study. The cost stemmed from the debate of whether to place an amphitheater on Reserve Avenue or Elmwood Park.

Council reached consensus Monday on another study that would include Elmwood Park in its entirety. The $300,000 will be used to produce plans that will be ready to be put out for bids.

Though bonds for the project won’t be issued until 2013, construction can begin in 2012, according to Morrill.

Councilman Sherman Lea said there are “just a lot of people that don’t come to the park. A lot of people separate downtown from the community.” Lea reminded Morrill that earlier in the process he stressed bringing in the community and wanted to still see that happen.

Citizens can weigh in at the April 28 public hearing on the budget.

Budget: John Bingham, Assistant

From page 1

Council members listen as City Manager Chris Morrill presents examples of water fountains for Elmwood Park.

Director of Finance, projected $258.8 million total revenue for fiscal year 2012. Though that is above last years revenue it will be eaten up by inflation.

Cuts: Valley Metro bus service hit the chopping block during budget discussions.

Peak service is now running on a 30 minute schedule and will be cut back to one hour. The schedule from 6:15 to 8:15 a.m. and 6:15 to 9:15 p.m. would be reduced to one hour intervals. Also eliminated would be free bus service for college students to downtown. Combined these cuts would save $476,000 and eliminate 14 to 18 driver positions. Assistant manager

Sherman Stovall said that drivers were about to enter into union negotiations for a new contract.

Total Action Against Poverty and Blue Ridge Behavioral Health could also be cut but would be restored pending an upswing in revenue.

With ten percent less city employees who are said to be “doing more with less,” council discussed a one-time flat monetary bonus distribution.

Schools: Vice-Mayor Dave Trinkle laid out the new simplified school funding formula. It will be based on 40 percent of Roanoke City’s local tax revenue.

By Valerie Garner info@newsroanoke.com

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Page 4 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 4/8/11 - 4/14/11

This Land Goes on Forever: A Letter Home From the Family Farm

I

f the children of Southwest I get up early here and it’s okay Virginia don’t grow up because there is a lot to do. And with strong ties to place, the mornings are cool and smell they will be less likely to strive to fresh, like sheets dried on the sustain the land’s productivity, clothesline. Gramma and Grambeauty and character across the pa let me go to the hen house generations. This fictional letter and get the eggs by myself, and home from the family farm by then we had some for breakfast, 13-yr-old Molly speaks indirect- and bacon, too. I’m always hunly to the future of our soil, air, gry and think food tastes better water, forests and open spaces. in the country.

Do plan to attend Land’s Sake: I have my own stick for hikFloyd’s Journey Ahead on April ing. We went a long way today 16 at Floyd County High and Skipper went with School, a day focused on us and he doesn’t need the beauty, bounty and a leash. This land goes future of a place called on forever! Grampa home. Details at http:// told me about him beis.gd/HXSpsr ing a boy here when Dear Daddy, they didn’t have much.

I promised Gramma They planted corn with I would send you a leta mule and the big ter, so I’ve been writing rocks they got out of Fred First this for a few days. I’m the ground they made glad you let me come here for a wall with when he was little the summer. I’m staying in your and they are still there under the room upstairs when you were leaves. He showed me. He said a boy. I found your name you you moved some of the smaller wrote on the wall inside the clos- rocks by yourself, so this is your et. It is fun to think about wak- wall too along the creek. Before ing up like you told me, hearing I come home, I’m going to add just the creek and the crickets some rocks on top. and sometimes an owl. We leave Grampa says the big trees by the windows open all night. Ear- the water are sycamores. They ly this morning, it sounded like have smooth bark that looks like waves at the beach but it was the camouflage. I climbed up not wind in the trees. too high in a big one that leans.

Community | News | Perspective 540-400-0990 Publisher | Stuart Revercomb | stuart@newsroanoke.com Features Editor | Cheryl Hodges | cheryl@newsroanoke.com News Editor | Gene Marrano | gmarrano@cox.net Production Editor | Leigh Sackett | leigh@newsroanoke.com Technical Webmaster | Don Waterfield | webmaster@newsroanoke.com Advertising Director | Bill Braton | adverstising@newsroanoke.com

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He showed me where one used to be by the creek that had your initials, but it was gone now. Today Gramma showed me Queen Anne’s Lace and Spicebush (It smells nice!) It makes them seem like friends, and next year when I come back, I’ll know them already.

Wow! I didn’t know how much stuff to do there could be in the country. Our back yard at home doesn’t seem very big now that I’ve explored here on the farm.

Tomorrow we’re going fishing again--Gramma’s coming too!

Then I’m taking my butterfly net into the field. Hay mowing is next week, but today, there are dragonflies and butterflies and stuff in the tall grass.

The farm was bigger long ago, Grampa said, but the highway took some of it, and there are houses like ours on some. We can’t see that from here. I’m just glad we still have this place. And he said it is protected and would stay this way, even when I’m grown, that I don’t have to worry about it being a parking lot or anything. It will still be fields and meadows and creeks with minnows. I can come back to my favorite tree by the frog pond and watch the blackbirds in the cattails like I do every afternoon.

When we get rain, we’re going to plant more trees. I have my own shovel! I’ll get to see them growing next summer. Grampa taught me this (he made me remember it): that a wise and generous man plants the trees, but others will enjoy their shade.

I think he means that he’s doing this for me and my children some day, because he’ll be gone when they are big trees. They will remind me of him and Gramma. It will be our forest, all of us.

I am punching my initials in a can lid and we are going to hang it with wire from a limb on the tree above the pond. When I’m a momma, this will be where my kids come. I’ll show them where everything is. It will still be here.

Knowing this makes me really happy and thankful. Can I bring a friend next summer?

Love, Molly Fred First / Floyd County VA Books: slowroadhome.com Blog: fragmentsfromfloyd.com twitter.com/fred1st http://about.me/fredfirst

Local Crossword

Star-Sentinel Crossword for 04/01/2011

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Where you were at crime time Before Farm credit administration (abbr.)

Council Italian "dollars" Workplace ___ Matisse, painter Clerk Loose gown worn at mass Governor Popular But I do like sleeping in a ----. (from Where the Wild Things Are) Hero sandwich Baseball gloves The Virginia cave that has the 'Fried Eggs' formation and a great organ too.

Channel 13 around here.

Wrath Comprehend Halos Athletic field Fight Alcoholic drink 'The Principle of -------' Art

45 46 48 49 50 52 53 56 58 59 60 61 63 64 66 70 71 72 73 74 75

structure by Brower Hatcher inside the Roanoke Municipal Courthouse.

Sheet Parsonage Cliff debris Crowd Stiff Peter, for short Downtown tobacconist since 1912 Change Still Persia Boxer Muhammad Nothing Digital audio tape Decree Say "hi" Dined Wodden projection Shampoo brand Gender Concerning Mary __ Moore

DOWN 1 Tree

By Don Waterfield

8 9 10 11 12 13 21 23 24 25 26 28 29 31 33 35 37 38

39 40 42 44 47 49 51 53 54 55 56 57 60 62 64 65 67 68 69

Caustic substance Lodge Star Trek Automoton's Expression Wing 'Fallen Fire -------' A bronze by Betty Branch outside the Roanoke Transportation museum.

Sandwich cookies brand Scold Eastern Time Natural aptitude Lilly-like plant Church building Roman seven Set Drench Accustomed Fruit Virginia is for lovers but Roanoke is for ----- lovers.

Lowest Make lace African antelope Singer Paul Expel Music Director and Conductor of the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra Keen Set to zero Apprehend Faucet PC valley Woman's partner Shekel Get the ----- touch (slogan) Angry Stretchy gloves Tight at the top, flaring at the bottom (2 wds.)

True A fox's hole (2 wds.)

Doctor's picture Estimated time of arrival Dynamite Annex Compass point Sticky black substance

Find the answers online: NewsRoanoke.com Have a clue and answer you’d like to see? email: puzzles@newsroanoke.com

NewsRoanoke.com

Lessons From Okuma: An Energy Strategy for 2050 and Beyond

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one seems to be natural gas. in history. A simple online Burning natural gas produces search will reveal a far greater about 30% less carbon diox- frequency than most realize ide than burning petroleum, and that the nature of our huand about 45% less than man-caused disasters knows burning coal. That’s why no national boundaries. Putmany coal-fired power plants ting all the consequences reare converting to natlated to fossil-fuel diural gas: a much more sasters together with efficient and “cleaner” the environmental approach to our enimpacts of extraction, ergy demands. Still refining, distribution, natural gas is a fossil and usage provides us fuel that emits carbon with a monumentally dioxide upon comdark picture of an inbustion. And, since vasive and unsustainits major component H. Bruce Rinker, PhD able industry. As a is methane (far more short-term approach potent than carbon to our energy needs, dioxide when released into I will take my chances with the atmosphere), leakage of nuclear power despite its ranatural gas during produc- dioactive traits.

So what’s our take-home tion and transport can have significant effects on climate message from the earthchange. Overall, however, quake-tsunami double disasnatural gas seems the least of ter in Okuma, Japan? It was an unprecedented, spectacuthree evils.

This brings us back to nu- lar disaster: a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and an 8-foot clear energy.

Emission-free sources tsunami with nearly 12,000 like nuclear power supply people dead. That’s about relatively safe, reliable, and as extreme an event as any affordable power to meet nuclear reactor will ever face.

Virginia’s economic growth As of early 2011, 442 nuclear without polluting the air with power plants exist worldwide, greenhouse gases and other 104 of which are located in poisons. The Commonwealth the United States that genergenerates nearly 40% of its ate 20% of our nation’s elecelectricity via nuclear ener- tricity. Another 65 plants are gy from four nuclear power under construction including plants: two in Richmond, and just one in the United States. two in Newport News. This You can bet each facility is does not include the Army’s now undergoing exhausnuclear power program at tive performance assessment Fort Belvoir nor the Navy’s and safety inspection. That’s fleet of nuclear-powered air- a good thing. But it’s not a craft carriers and submarines good thing to shut down the at Newport News. Nor does entire nuclear network bethis include hospitals and cause of one unprecedented dentist offices throughout disaster in Japan.

Here then is my brief proVirginia with radioactive isotopes used in medical equip- posal for a national energy ment. Note that I say “rela- policy: convert most coalfired power plants to natural tively safe.”

An on-line search for nu- gas by 2020; phase out all clear power plant accidents other carbon-emitting power with multiple fatalities and/ plants by 2025; build an ador more than US$100 million ditional 200 to 400 nuclear in property damage between power plants in the country 1952 and 2011 yielded 19 by 2025 and, at the same time, incidents, most of which oc- aggressively pursue alternacurred in the United States. tive types of power generaThe “big” ones that come to tion such as solar, hydro, and mind include Three Mile Is- wind; shutdown all carbonland in Pennsylvania (1979), emitting power stations, inChernobyl in the Ukraine cluding natural gas, by 2050; (1986), and Fukushima Dai- decommission all nuclear ichi in Japan (2011). Com- power plants and provide all pare these disasters (apples energy needs via alternatives to oranges?) with some of the by 2075. Given that, with largest oil spills by volume current proved reserves, we have about 150 years of coal remaining, 40 years for petroleum, and 60 years for natural gas, my proposed timetable Weekend Retreat seems a reasonable one.

A dynamic self-centering experience!

The take-home lesson from Okuma is for us to seize the You Will Experience: moment. Historically, the •Nutrition Updates •Easy Fitness Trails nuclear industry has been rel•Aerobic Exercise •Power Yoga atively safe and reliable. Let’s •Informal Breakout Sessions solidify our national energy policy to phase out carbonMay 14-15, 2011 emitting fuels, provisionally $125 embrace nuclear power, and At Camp Roanoke build alternative technologies for a sustainable society.

Holistic Wellness & As we bicker about national Motivational Fitness energy policy, our skies conCall Today! 312-4861 tinue to fill with poisons from an antiquated industry.

or years, I have advocated the use of nuclear power as an interim action to wean society at-large from its energy dependence on carbon-emitting fuels. Keyword: interim.

Globally, our unsustainable addiction to fossil fuels such as coal, petroleum, and natural gas produces over 21 billion tons of carbon dioxide per year with only about half of that amount absorbed by natural processes. That’s a net annual gain of nearly 11 billion tons of atmospheric carbon dioxide per year.

Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas with monumental ecological consequences because it enhances radiative forcing and thus contributes to global warming. Its annual production across the planet is roughly equivalent to a mountain 1 mile high with a base 12 miles in circumference. Compare this to the waste generated worldwide by nuclear power plants: a mere cube with a 16-yard edge. That’s 2 million times less waste by volume for nuclear fission!

Coal especially is an ecological catastrophe all its own. A typical coal-fired power plant generates as much carbon dioxide yearly as cutting down 161 million trees. Furthermore, the fly ash emitted by a coal plant carries into the surrounding environment 100 times more radiation than a nuclear power plant that yields the same amount of energy. A single coalburning plant also accounts for unimaginable tons of pollutants that cause acid rain, soot, and surface ozone. Then add to this witch’s brew the hundreds of pounds of mercury, arsenic, lead, and cadmium generated by a single coal-fired plant, and we have a very dark picture indeed of emissions. And we haven’t even touched on the physical impacts of the coal-mining process on regional ecosystems: strip mining, mountaintop removal, erosion, and such. The idea of “clean coal” is a myth. In short, we simply have to eliminate the use of coal straightaway from our national energy policy.

Of the remaining fossil fuels, the least noxious

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Perspective

NewsRoanoke.com

A Perspective on Global Community

I

will start this by admitting munity they had known. I would that I don’t’ know anyone wait with anticipation for the in Japan. While I know story of survivors being reunited a few people who have traveled with loved ones – but they didn’t there for various reasons, I have come. Just more silence. never been there myself and As the images of Mother Nahave no direct personal connec- ture’s wrath made way for imtion. Yet, I continue to find my- ages of a nuclear power plant self distracted by the tragic loss in crisis – again, my mind went of… everything…in the straight to the people. areas hit by the tsunami Not just the people afon March 11, 2011. fected by the radiation In the weeks that have leak (as I believe all followed, as I walk my Earth’s creatures will all dogs through my neighpay the price for that borhood, I try to imagine in time) but with the everything being wiped 50 plant engineers who away…every house, Stephanie Koehler tirelessly worked to every tree, every family, stabilize the situation. every dog, every cat, every car. The 50 men who knew they Everything. The restaurants, the were making grave sacrifices dry cleaners, the grocery stores, for their community -- but they the banks, the farmer’s markets, never stopped. the post office…everything for It made me think about the miles. It remains impossible to things that define our global imagine. community -- bringing into foLike many of us, I was riveted cus the many connections we to the TV reports and video ac- have with the other inhabitants counts posted online. My heart of this planet. would ache with the images of As I turned the key in my Toypeople wandering alone through ota 4-Runner; put a new battery the rubble and mud looking to in my Blackberry; printed on find evidence of life in the com- my Canon printer; took photos

with my Panasonic camera and watched the news on my Sony TV – I couldn’t help but think of the many Japanese hands and minds that made these luxuries possible. As I watched the leaves bud on a neighbor’s Japanese maple tree and admired the elegant blossoms from the Japanese cherry trees in our nation’s capitol – I couldn’t help but recognize the natural beauty their land had offered this planet. All of them a part of my community – regardless of the fact I had never met them or visited their homes.

The word “community” is generally defined as “a group of people having common interests or characteristics”. So, as technology increasingly allows us to interact with and understand people and cultures far away – it also offers us an opportunity to increase our empathy and compassion. Perhaps too – it offers us the opportunity to consider the impact our actions – both good and bad; large and small – have on the global community.

By Stephanie Koehler stephaniekoehler@cox,net

The Happy Chef - Fettuccine Alfredo Two Ways

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ast night a very fun dinner was enjoyed in my house. My eight year old son, who recently began to enjoy cooking, told me he wanted to make dinner. He picked out a recipe from a kids cookbook I had pulled out for him. He was so excited when we began to cook but it takes much patience to cook with my son as he has a lot of energy. I have never been fond of children spinning around and dancing in my kitchen, but he was certainly having fun, as he should.

When the meal was prepared and we were about to start plating, Anthony said, “I want to serve everyone at the table.” This made me know every part of the meal meant a lot to him and he wanted to go all out, so I got out the good pasta bowls and the napkin rings. Inspired by Holy Communion that morning, he asked about serving grape juice in wine glasses, so Anthony’s dinner became quite the dining experience.

The food was hysterical; it was a kid version of Fettuccine Alfredo complete with a hot dog cut to resemble an octopus on top. It was not a complicated recipe, therefore he could handle it mostly on his own and have a great sense of accomplishment in doing so. He even insisted on washing the dishes!

I explained to my son that there are many great cooks in his family and that his ancestors on his granddaddy’s side were from Austria right on the border of Italy. Today the province is actually a part of Italy, so I am certain they must have been cooking up some wonderful Fettuccine Alfredo recipes in their day.

So below is a healthy adult Fettuccine Alfredo recipe and also Anthony’s inspired recipe for you to try with the little ones!

Buon appetito!

Fettucine Alfredo for Grownups 3/4 cup vegetable broth or reduced-sodium chicken broth 4 large cloves garlic, peeled 4 ounces whole-wheat fettuccine 1 small zucchini, cut into matchsticks 2 teaspoons cornstarch, mixed with 1 tablespoon water 2 tablespoons reduced-fat sour cream Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, or to taste 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley -Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Combine broth and garlic cloves in a small saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat.

Cover, reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the garlic cloves are soft, about 15 minutes.

-After the garlic has simmered about 10 minutes, cook fettuccine in the boiling water, stirring often, for 8 minutes. Drop in zucchini and cook until the fettuccine is just tender, about 1 minute more.

-Meanwhile, transfer the garlic and broth to a blender. Process until the mixture is smooth, about 1 minute. Return the mixture to the pot and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Add cornstarch mixture; whisk it until slightly thickened, about 15 seconds. Remove from the heat and whisk in sour cream, nutmeg and pepper. Return the pot to very low heat to keep the sauce

warm. (Do not boil.)

-Drain the pasta and place in a large bowl. Add the sauce and 1/2 cup Parmesan; toss to coat well. Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately, passing the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan separately.

Anthony’s Octo-Dogs and Shells 4 hot dogs 1 1/2 c. uncooked small shell pasta 1 1/2 c. frozen mixed vegetables 1 c. prepared Alfredo sauce yellow mustard in squeeze bottle cheese-flavored fish shaped crackers -Lay 1 hot dog on cutting surface. Starting 1 inch from one end of hot dog, slice hot dog vertically in half. Roll hot dog 1/4 turn. Starting 1 inch from same end, slice in half vertically again, making 4 segments connected at top. Slice each segment in half vertically, creating a total of 8 "legs." Repeat with remaining hot dogs.

-Place hot dogs in medium saucepan; cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Remove from heat; set aside.

-Prepare pasta according to package directions, stirring in vegetables during last 3 minutes of cooking time. Drain; return to pan. Stir in Alfredo sauce.

Heat over low heat until heated through. Divide pasta mixture between 4 plates.

-Drain octo-dogs. Arrange one octo-dog on top of pasta mixture on each plate. Draw faces on "heads" of octo-dogs with mustard. Sprinkle crackers over pasta.

- by Leigh Sackett

Fishing Tournament

Prizes awarded up to $15,000 CASH!

The Cave Spring Optimist Club

Fishing 43rd Annual Tournament!

The Tournament will begin at 7:30 am, Friday, April 29th, at FoxPort Marina (now Gill’s Creek Marina) on Smith Mountain Lake and continue through 12:00 Noon, Sunday, May 1st. All entries must be caught and weighed in between these hours.

TICKETS are

$40

Registration Information: Call Carol at 540-588-3502

4/8/11 - 4/14/11 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 5

Miz Flora and Miz Anderson

S

her room with her if admitted, Miz Flora. he would come to our took her home if she wasn't. We emergency department explained what was wrong; he perhaps two or three never understood. He thumbed times per week. At fifty years of through his Reader's Digest and age, she had a progressive cir- waited for our verdict: admit rhosis that you don't get from her or take her home. He was drinking alcohol; and she suf- Daddy and husband and friend fered diabetes, strokes, heart all rolled into one. trouble with by-pass We would give her surgery, breast cancer, diuretics to relieve her and other diseases. Her body's burdens. Somebody would so swell with times it would work on edema she could hardly the way home. She'd wet walk; fluid denied breath the seat of his car. "It's all to her lungs. In her childright then," he'd tell her. like innocence, she would He'd escort her into the say to me, "I'm afraid, house; wipe up his car, Lucky Garvin Dr. Garvin. Please give sleep an hour and head me my fluid medicine." out to work cutting logs.

She was short and dumpy Not long ago, her breathing and often expressionless. [Did got labored; worse than usual.

I mention she was also schizo- He drove her to a small hospiphrenic?] But, without question, tal near home; time was short, Miz Flora was one of the sweetest he'd never seen her this bad. I patients I've ever treated. Unable can see him driving through the by art or intellect to understand night with silent determination why she was dying, she came to to get his wife some help, perus like Dorothy went to Oz. We haps one hand on the wheel, the were the wizards, you see; the other trying to comfort her. keepers of electuraries and inHe wasn't in time. cantations. We could save her.

Mrs. Anderson.

We could make things right.

After years of people thinking Her husband, Mr. Deitz, was she was merely odd, dementia a grizzled, non-verbal sawmill took recognizable shapein Mrs. hand with no education he Anderson. She came to me three could recall. I never saw him days after she decided to simply without scuffed workboots and a stop talking or even looking at faded denim jacket. He brought anyone; including her husband his wife forty miles to the hos- of fifty years. He sat watchful pital day or night whenever she at her bedside throughout her needed it; stayed with her how- long work-up. Every so often ever long it took; remained in he would jump up to straighten

her sheets or cover her feet. "Are you cold, honey?" "You can talk, can't you, baby? Can't you talk to me?" His solicitude was not newly-born. He sought, in his helpless way, to look after her as he always had.

He was a commonplace man; bald and mystified.

I told him what was wrong.

Stroke. Dementia. Lying there staring. Never be the same again.

He kept glancing past me to be sure she didn't need anything.

Then he said, "So when can I take her home?" He'll look after her. Always has.

These two men are invisible.

Match them with their wives and they'd be too plain for packaging; too commonplace to conjure visions of romance.

We admire devotion, but prefer it attractively displayed. Our princes must be lean and dark; our ladies willowy and winsome. These two couples are far too ordinary to move us to song or verse. There's no `Love Story' here; nothing that would sell anyway. But I've learned that perfected love dwells in these unexpected places . . . In these beautiful simple hearts.

Look for Lucky’s books locally and on-line: The Oath of Hippocrates; The Cotillian; A Journey Long Delayed.

Contact Lucky at info@theroanokestar.com

Preacher’s Corner

A Spring of Typologies

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ne of the most famous examples of a typology in Scripture is the rock from which water flowed to quench the Israelites parched in their wilderness wanderings.

What was this miraculous rock that gave them life-saving water? The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 10. The rock was Christ!

So the physical, tangible rock described in Exodus 17 and Numbers 20 was actually a “type” of Jesus Christ. That is, the physical rock points to the spiritual Rock of Ages, God Himself.

Such types are found throughout the Bible, the one thing pointing to a greater thing.

Types are also springing up all around us in this spring of the seasons. Take the beautiful redbud trees now robust in bloom throughout the Roanoke Valley.

Their bright scarlet and purple colors point us to the King who comes in the spring dressed in His royal splendor riding on His mount into the Holy City on Palm Sunday, there to die for the sins of the world.

Or consider the lilies of the fields and all the glorious array of flowers along almost every street and in every yard. That which was dead and laid in the ground now springs forth into

STOP IN FOOD STORES

by Mark Graham

new life!

See how the flowers are types pointing us to Christ’s resurrection. That’s why too the egg has been seen for centuries as a type pointing to Easter, the chick at springtime bursting forth from the tomb of its shell. Likewise, we have the typology of the butterfly emerging from its cocoon to spread its glorious wings of resurrected life.

In fact, we are blessed with such an abundance of typologies in this gorgeous place we call home that we can miss seeing them. But that would be tragic. How sad for us if we fail

to notice the myriad of ways God has built into His creation types pointing us to Himself, displaying His splendor in Jesus Christ.

So as we move outdoors this spring to work in our yards, walk along the Greenway, and drive on the Parkway, let us keep our eyes open to all the signs of God around us. Indeed, it’s a spring of typologies.

Mark Graham is the Senior Pastor at St. John Lutheran Church, visit them on the web at www.stjohnlutheran.org.

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Page 6 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 4/18/11 - 4/14/11

Sports

Send sports pictures, announcements and story ideas to info@newsroanoke.com

Northside Scores Late Run To Wild Bill’s Weekly Sports Roundup Edge Cave Spring In Softball 4-3 Northside plated the goahead run in the top of the seventh as the defending state champion Vikings edged Cave Spring 4-3 Monday afternoon

at Cave Spring.

Northside ( 8-1) battled back from a 3-2 deficit after three innings for the victory. Viking ace Lauren Boitnott got the win

from the circle. Taylor Asimakopoulos went the distance for the Knights ( 3-5). Aishia Wiley led the Viking attack with two hits.

Northside catcher Kathleen Carr throws to first after pouncing on a slow-roller in front of the plate.

Above: Cave Spring senior #14 Dani Duff steals second as Northside shortstop #11 Michele Eplion is late with the tag.

Left: Northside pitcher #14 Lauren Boitnott kicks and deals Monday afternoon.

By Bill Turner info@newsroanoke.com

North Cross Rolls In 23-0 Baseball Win Over Roanoke Catholic North Cross had their bats afire Monday afternoon as the Raiders coasted to the lopsided win over the Celtics. North Cross plated 18 runs in the first three innings in the contest shortened to five innings because of the margin of victory.

North Cross batter #10 Thomas Weaver connects on a drive for a Raider hit against Roanoke Catholic

By Bill Turner info@newsroanoke.com

Baseball is officially underway with the opening day of the major leagues last Thursday and our own Salem Red Sox playing their season opener tonight (Fri. Apr. 8th) at Lewis Gale Field. The Sox play a weekend series against Frederick followed by a Tuesday through Thursday three-game home set with a visit from Lynchburg.

The high school diamonds prepare for the start of district play as Salem, Hidden Valley and Patrick Henry hold on to their rankings in Wild Bill’s Baseball Top-3. On the girls softball side, Northside, William Byrd and Hidden Valley claim the early top-3 spots.

High school basketball held its final, albeit most prestigious, awards presentation Sunday night at the 43rd Annual Kiwanis Roanoke Metro Basketball Banquet. Thirteen area high schools participated with boys and girls teams honored.

The five-man boys all-star team included player of the year Trey Smith (Northside), Marcus Banks and Cam Jones (PH), Carter Wright (Hidden Valley) and Chris Ware (James River).

Hidden Valley’s Troy Wells was named coach of the year.

The girls all-star team was led by player of the year Sarah Williams (PH) along with Jade Lewis (Lord Botetourt), Tyler Evans (Hidden Valley), Jessi Strom (Glenvar) and Tay Taylor (Salem). Chuck Pound of Lord Botetourt was named girls coach of the year.

Picking up the team sportsmanship award was Jessica Ficarro’s Cave Spring girls team along with Billy Pope’s Northside boys squad.

The highlight of the evening is the presentation of the unsung hero award to a player from each of the girls and boys teams as selected by the respec-

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tive head coach. The unsung noke) hero is characterized as the Answer: Don’t kid yourself, player who makes a significant Harold. The ACC domination contribution, both on and off of old is long-gone. VCU, Richthe court, while not being a mond, ODU and George Maheadline-grabber in son have moved to a statistics. Being chosen level playing field with is considered one of the Virginia’s two ACC highest compliments a members. The effect of player can receive for the performances from his or her dedication to these four will be seen the team. Congratulain exposure, recruiting tions to these 26 winand TV contracts. ners as Wild Bill’s Dear Wild One: Bill Turner players of the week.

Can we expect the (See pics on page 7) likes of Shaka Smart In college basketball, the and Chris Mooney to bolt for a amazing run by VCU ended in coaching vacancy such as NC their semifinal loss to Butler, State or Tennessee? (Sean/Sabut the Rams clearly captured lem) the attention of the state and Answer: Not going to hapnation with their series of stun- pen. Smart just signed an ning wins. VCU joined UVa eight-year deal to stay at VCU; and George Mason as the only Mooney a ten-year contract to three Virginia Division I teams stay with the Spiders. When to make the Final-Four. Mason you’ve got it made and exceed accomplished the feat in 2006; expectations, why take a demothe Hoos in ‘81 and ‘84. tion.

The Roanoke Valley Sports Dear Predictor: Will we see Club will have University of any coaching changes among Richmond head basketball our state college teams? (Steve/ coach Chris Mooney as its Lynchburg) guest speaker for the Monday, Answer: Yep, keep your eyes April 18th meeting at the Sa- and ears open - this predictor lem Civic Center. The public is says there’s one on its way for a invited to attend the social and team that is well known. dinner beginning at 5:45. For information on attending and Quote of the week: “I told cost, contact club president the doctor I broke my leg in Mac McCadden at 397-2119. two places. He told me to quit Now to the mailbox where going to those places” - Henny numerous questions surfaced Youngman this week about the run by VCU and the college landscape.

Send your inquiries to: info@ Dear Mr. Bill: Do you think newsroanoke.com VCU making the Final-Four will be just a forgotten flash in

By Bill Turner the pan? After all, ACC basketinfo@newsroanoke.com ball still rules. (Harold/Roa-

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Sports

Raiders Sweep Celtics in Lacrosse

43rd Annual Kiwanis Awards Banquet Honors Unsung Heros

The North Cross Lacrosse team took care of business against cross town rival Roanoke Catholic this past week by knocking off the struggling Celtics at home on Thursday 16 - 2 and then cruising to an easy win in an away matchup Monday by a score of 10-1.

Northside

The 43rd Annual Kiwanis Metro Roanoke Basketball Awards Banquet presented its unsung heros, team sportsmanship awards, coach-ofthe-year, all-star team and

By Bill Turner player-of-the-year Sunday info@newsroanoke.com night at the Salem Civic CenBoys: Northside head coach ter.

The winners are chosen Billy Pope (left) with Cody among thirteen area girls Bailey. and boys high school teams.

Roanoke Valley The unsung hero, chosen by each team's coach, is one of Christian the most prestigious awards which embodies the player who has made a significant contribution to the team on and off the court, while not being the headline-grabber in statistics.

Above: North Cross defender Kyle Frazier (foreground) and midi Alex Strain (facing) swarm around a Catholic attacker in game one.

Right: Raider Attackman #6 Pendleton Draper advances the ball for the Raiders in game two.

North Cross Girls Tennis Stays Undefeated With Win Monday

Evans Schmedtje, playing in the #2 spot for the Raiders, returns a shot in Monday's win over Liberty Christian.

Playing in the #1 spot for North Cross, Lara Min is among the elite high school players in the area.

By Bill Turner info@newsroanoke.com

The North Cross girl's tennis team is off to another strong start after a convincing 8-1 win over Liberty Christian Academy Monday afternoon on the North Cross courts. The Raiders are undefeated for 2011 in what has become another year of strong performances for the girls tennis program. Playing in the number one position, Lara Min has her sights on a VIC state title. North Cross is led by head coach Heather Lawrence, a middle school teacher at the school.

Girls: Roanoke Valley Christian head coach Bert Galop with Brittany Wright.

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Page 8 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 4/8/11 - 4/14/11

Are Your Investments Getting Enough Exercise?

Now that spring is here, you may find it easier to get outside to run, bike or take part in other physical pursuits that you enjoy.

As you know, the more active you are, the more efficiently your body will work. And the same can hold true for your investments — the more exercise they get, the more potential to work on your behalf.

Just how do investments get “exercise”? Through lots of activity. And you can keep your investments active in at least two ways: through systematic investing and through dividend reinvestment. Let’s take a look at both these techniques.

When you engage in systematic investing, commonly called "dollar cost averaging," you are continuously putting your money “in motion.” Essentially, you put the same amount of money into the same investments at regular intervals. So, for example, you might decide to invest

$100 per month, in Company ABC stock. To impose this investment discipline on yourself, you could even have the money sent directly from your checking or savings account.

Of course, since the price of ABC stock, like that of all stocks, is constantly changing, your $100 investment will buy different numbers of shares each month. This can work to your advantage, because when the stock price of ABC goes down, your $100 will buy more shares. When the price goes up, you’ll automatically be a smart enough “shopper” to buy fewer shares, just as you’d typically buy less of something when its price goes up.

Over time, systematic investing typically results in an average cost per share that’s lower than it would be if you were to make sporadic lump sum investments. If you can lower the cost of investing, this may

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(Keep in mind, though, that even systematic investing can’t guarantee a profit or prevent a loss in declining markets. Also, you’ll need to have the financial resources available to keep investing through up and down markets.)

Dividend reinvestment is similar to systematic investing in that it allows you to build more shares of an investment.

But when you reinvest dividends, you don’t even have to take money from other sources to increase your shares — you simply have to request that a stock or a mutual fund, instead of paying you a dividend in cash, reinvest the dividend right back into that same stock or mutual fund. It’s an effortless way of adding shares. Similar to dollar-cost averaging, dividend reinvestment imposes an investment discipline on you — you automatically keep putting money in the market during up and down periods. (Keep in mind that dividends can be increased, decreased or totally eliminated) Exercising your investment dollars in these ways can help you go a long way toward keeping your portfolio in good shape — enabling you to make healthy progress toward your important long-term goals

Carl Grove is a Financial Advisor at Edward Jones located in Roanoke, VA. He may be reached at 540-344-9211 or carl.grove@ edwardjones.com. Edward Jones, its associates and financial advisors do not provide tax or legal advice.

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NewsRoanoke.com

Virginia Museum of Transportation Names Andy Fletcher as Rail Artist in Residence

The Virginia Museum of Transportation has named Andy Fletcher its first-ever rail artist in residence. Fletcher’s work— technically accurate renderings of historic and contemporary locomotives and rail cars—has a national following. He recently moved from California to Roanoke because of Virginia’s rich rail heritage which is preserved and retold at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

The Museum has converted former office space into a studio where Fletcher can concentrate on his work while modern trains roll by. “We believe having Andy here really brings a wonderful, new dimension to the Museum,” said executive director Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr. “He captures the railroad heritage of this great country so beautifully, both of modern railroads and those which have ceased to exist. Seeing his work brings back great memories for so many people, especially of family members long gone who worked proudly in the rail industry.”

Fletcher began drawing trains as a teenager, and quickly developed a following in the executive offices of many rail lines. When he was just 18, the then Burlington Northern commissioned him to design a paint scheme for its new fleet of SD70MAC freight locomotives based on the color palette of its executive train. In all, Burlington Northern painted 350 locomotives per Fletcher’s design.

Just as his career was beginning to take off, Fletcher began to develop major seizures. His epilepsy prevented him from

Andy Fletcher in his studio at the Virginia Museum of Transportation. drawing for a decade. Today, he has been seizure-free for nearly ten years and his popularity is again building as railfans rediscover his work.

Fletcher has been invited to participate in rail events at museums, train shows, and corporate functions around the country. “I live the most fulfilled life, being around trains and drawing trains,” said Fletcher, who was recently diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome. “All the rail sites and all these trains are so rich to me, they all have stories. My drawings help people appreciate those stories.”

Fletcher focuses on accuracy and historic integrity to produce drawings of locomotives, freight and passenger cars, and cabooses that were and are a part of railroads across the country.

He uses watercolor pens on hot press illustration board to enable him to blend colors authentically. He estimates he has completed 2,500 drawings to date and is looking forward to drawing many more trains here in Roanoke.

“This location by the tracks

inspires me,” said Fletcher. “This building, an old freight station, inspires me.” His studio at the Museum overlooks the active Norfolk Southern mainline tracks that run through downtown Roanoke. “This is the perfect location for railfanning,” he said. “A variety of NS and other locomotives, so many different types of freight cars, old equipment still painted with historic logos, and even cabooses are going past all the time.” A web cam over the tracks shares Fletcher’s view of the NS mainline and can be seen at www.nwhs.org/cam/ vmt/.

Fletcher offers his art in a variety of forms for all to enjoy: commissioned and original works, prints, posters, magnets and children’s sticker books.

Several of Fletcher’s original artworks are on display in the Museum Store. To purchase his work, visit the Museum Store, the Museum’s Online Store http://shop.vmt.org or Fletcher’s web site, http://www. customtrains.org to order from the complete catalog.

National Society of Accountants Praises Repeal of Form 1099 Reporting Law "This was a nightmarish regulation that no one in the small business community wanted to deal with."

That's how National Society of Accountants (NSA) Executive Vice President John Ams described the just-repealed law that would have required every business in America to send a 1099 Miscellaneous Income statement to every vendor that was paid more than $600 per year for products and services.

The U.S. Senate repealed the unpopular law on April 5, 2011 after business groups and other organizations protested that

the law would impose onerous record keeping and paperwork requirements that would stifle business growth. The U.S. House of Representatives voted in February 2011 to repeal it.

President Obama is expected to sign the bill shortly.

The legislation imposing the reporting requirement was originally passed in 2010 as part of the healthcare reform bill, designed to generate more federal tax revenue by more diligently tracking business income and having the Internal Revenue Service pursue any unpaid taxes.

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"Congress finally listened to the voice of actual experience rather than people in ivory towers," Ams said. "For that, we are grateful. People on the ground making a living every day could see this would be big problem and would not increase the revenue Congress was expecting.

All it would do is cost businesses money and increase the burden on the IRS." IRS 1099 forms are "Information Returns" that corporations, partnerships, individuals, estates, and trusts must file to report payments of more than $600 per year made to selfemployed individuals, sole proprietors, partnerships, limited liability corporations, and other non-incorporated organizations.

However, the law that was just repealed would have required 1099 forms to be sent to all vendors who received more than $600 during the last year an exponential increase in the number of forms issued.

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Left to right: Cynthia H. Shively, Jodie S. Wertz, Michael B. Kemp, Judith A. Honaker and N. Edward Link, Jr.

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NewsRoanoke.com

Sandborg Pulls Double Duty With Two Choirs At Roanoke College A 25-year veteran as a professor of fine arts at Roanoke College, Dr. Jeffrey Sandborg keeps busy these days as the conductor and choir director for both the Roanoke College Choir and the Oriana Singers, a two-yearold all-female group. Recently the Oriana Singers had a “very successful collaboration,” with the University of Virginia Glee Club - a men’s group - a joint effort they will repeat this Saturday night at St. Andrews Church (7:30pm) in Roanoke, in a concert featuring Mozart’s Requiem.

Sandborg’s wife Marianne is a soprano soloist, one of just several soloists on the program. “Men’s and women’s choirs… often collaborate with each other,” said Sandborg. As for working with his wife: “we have tempo disagreements and things like that,” chuckles Sandborg, “that other people might not question me about.” Sandborg has a Master’s in voice but doesn’t sing much now except to demonstrate in rehearsal.

Like a college football recruiter, Sandborg scans applications from incoming students, looking for freshmen that might have an interest in singing. He also does local high school workshops, all the while looking for fresh talent. “I’m trying to bring in as many of the best singers as I can, so it’s no accident that we have good singers in there.”

His goal from the “get go” was to put the Oriana Singers on a level playing field with the more established Roanoke College Choir. “We’ve done that, I think. They really are just as good in their own way.”

The Oriana Singers have tackled folk songs, French Canadian pieces, avant-garde Swedish songs and classical works. Both the Oriana Singers and Roanoke College Choir members take classes for college credits. The choir was revived in the late 1950’s after

Jeff Sandborg conducts the Roanoke College Choir at the National Cathedral in Washington D.C. flourishing earlier in the 20th century. Sandborg assumed the reigns in 1985 and has taken the group overseas to Europe and South America. Domestic concert venues like the National Cathedral in Washington D.C. are other highlights.

On April 17th the Oriana Singers will appear with Virginia Tech’s “Naturally Sharp,” a cappella men’s group, at St. Andrews (4pm.) Admission is free to both events but an offering is suggested. On May 6th the co-ed Roanoke College Choir appears at the same venue, Roanoke’s iconic Catholic church on the hill, in the annual spring concert. The choir recently appeared with the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra for Beethoven’s 9th symphony.

“The kids were just electrified,” said Sandborg, who also contends that St. Andrews made his reputation: he went there on a tour when first coming to town and determined that this was where the Roanoke College Choir would hold future concerts. There is no suitable space relative to both size and acoustics on the Salem campus he points out.

“St. Andrews is a wonderful place to perform, especially choral music, but it has special [challenges] you have to deal with because of the acoustics,” noted Sandborg. That means

“taking things a little bit slower,” and articulating more clearly.

Regardless he said, “any credibility I ever had was because of St. Andrews.”

There won’t be much time for the Oriana Singers to practice with the Virginia Glee Club before this Saturday’s concert but Sandborg said they had plenty of time to do that at UVA before the previous concert. Integrating orchestral musicians with the two singing groups is the third crucial part of the equation.

The Oriana Singers were very impressed by the rotunda at UVA and the academic environs during the recent joint program in Charlottesville, when Glee Club alumni joined the current group on stage at Old Cabell to sing the UVA fight song. “That’s all they’ve been talking about,” said Sandborg of his all-female group. He looks forward to returning the favor on Saturday, impressing the Glee Club when it comes south to Roanoke. “It’s going to be a great experience here. We hope to fill St. Andrews.” (see Roanoke.edu/choir for more information and music snippets.)

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

Barbara Martin Trio to Return to "The Mezzanine"

Vocalist and guitarist, Barbara Martin is as comfortable in a New York cabaret show or a major venue like The Kennedy Center as she is in an intimate house concert or a bohemian cafe. "Listening to Barbara Martin's sultry sound makes me want to lean back in a room with low lights and sip a martini," said one arts aficionado after a recent concert, and Barbara's records and performances have impressed critics and fans alike.

Martin and band members Bob Bowen on bass and Michael Elswick on saxophone return to Roanoke's Main Library on Tuesday, April 19, from 6 - 8 p.m.

Named one of ten worthy jazz singers by Jazziz Magazine and garnering a Parent's Choice Silver Honor Award for her children's recording “From Ragtime to Rock and Roll,” Martin has recorded and produced eight albums, the latest, “Eyes on the Horizon” was released in August, 2010.

The Washington Post describes Martin's music as "slice of life songs that ring with truth, wit and experience." Geoffrey Himes of the Baltimore Sun touts Martin as "…a songwriter with an unexpected gift for sultry melody."

Martin has been writing and performing original songs since her teen years, and has won numerous awards, the latest a Silver Award in the Vocal Blues and Jazz category at the Mid-Atlantic Song Contest for her song "Kaleidoscope." She has placed songs with other artists and in TV and film and written scores for theatrical performances.

Saxophonist, Michael Elswick joined the Navy as a mu-

with his own group, The Michael Elswick Quartet and for 10 years with Big Ray and the Kool Kats.

Bassist, Bob Bowen has performed with the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra since 2000. He has performed at the Greenbrier and Homestead Resort since 1996. He has recorded with many artists as a jazz bass player including guitarist Royce Campbell.

Barbara Martin sician and toured the Midwest performing in a 20 piece big band. He received a music scholarship at James Madison University in Harrisonburg.

He has performed extensively

For more information go to: libraryevents@roanokeva.gov or call 540-853-1057

4/8/11 - 4/14/11 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 9

Local Artist Recharges Batteries During French Residency

Local painter and photographer Suzun Hughes recently spent two months in Paris on a residency; living with other artists from around the world. Her husband John Wilson, a sculptor and co-owner of the Wilson Hughes gallery & studios (117 W. Campbell) went with her and also enjoyed a studio apartment overlooking the Seine River. Hughes wound up taking pictures instead of painting, and has mounted many of them on cardboard stock. Her iconic and lesser-known views of Paris and surrounding areas are available for sale at the gallery over the next few months.

“The idea [for the residency] is that you have exposure to French culture and [other] artists. There were people from all over the world,” said Hughes.

The University of Virginia provided the space; she had to apply for the residency. It was Hughes’ fifth trip to Paris “but I’ve never had the luxury [to stay] for two months. It takes it to a whole different level [as an artist].” One of her goals was to explore lesser-known artistic venues, to meet more living artists. An exhibit of etchings dating back to the 16th century was “totally bizarre… it was great,” she chuckled.

Images of favorite buildings, scenic views of churches, billboards, French magazine covers, ornate metro train stops, shop windows, the iconic Eiffel Tower, a “living wall” on the side of a building, and sidewalk cafes among other subjects have been preserved by Hughes in her postcard sized archival-quality photos (available for $5 each).

There’s even one shot of a square carousel, and another of what used to be a government mortuary but is now an artist’s center. “It has really cool things to do in it – a really cool space.

That was the kind of thing I sought out [with a camera],” added Hughes.

“Being in Paris…was very high energy,” said Hughes of her residency. “There’s a lot of things to see and absorb. You get stimulated by all of the things [around you].

The recent killing of eight United Nation workers in Afghanistan (and subsequent civilian deaths) over the burning of a Quran by Florida Pastor Terry Jones recalls a series of works Hughes created last year. “Hate Crimes,” consists of words scrolled by Hughes over the opaque images of American flags, including a discourse on 9/11 and an earlier Quran burning proposed by Jones that was headed off by the American government Hughes’s two paintings in the Hate Crimes series can be seen at the gallery, which is typically open Monday through Sunday from noon-4pm. It’s also open during Art By Night, which has now moved to the first Friday

Suzun Hughes and her photos from France. night of each month (5-9pm).

“It was such a horrific concept to me [Jones’ threat last year to burn the Quran] that I felt compelled to do this,” said Hughes of Hate Crimes, which describes her feelings about September 11, 2001. “There were Muslims that were killed [there also] in the 9/11 attacks [and they] also participated in humanitarian acts.” Hughes incorporated poetry into the two pieces and “spent a lot of time with it. How often do you really spend that much time with words?” A companion piece focuses on Jones’ original 2010 threat to burn the Quran; on it she wrote out the words to the Declaration of Independence. It incorporates the vertical stripes

found in the official but seldomseen U.S. Peace flag.

“I felt there was a real relationship between the Declaration of Independence and what our forefathers were fighting for – and how we’ve gone off the tracks,” said Hughes. “Our society is so paranoid right now, especially about the Muslim thing. How much homegrown terrorism have we had?” Hughes calls the Quran burning and the violence that has ensued “just as crazy as any bombing. It’s a hate crime [like] 9/11. It’s not what the forefathers wanted for our country.” See wilsonhughesgallery.com

Valley Chamber

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

Orchestra

Sunday, April 17, 3 pm Hollins University, duPont Chapel

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Weekly Poetry Peace Packing the Car for Our Western Camping Trip

By Jane Varley

What we will remember — we tried to take the dog, packed around him, making a cozy spot at the back of the Subaru, blocking out the sun, resisting the obvious — he was too old, he would not make it.

And when he died in Minnesota, we smelled and smelled his paws, arthritic and untouchable these last many years, took those marvelous paws up into our faces.

They smelled of dark clay and sweet flower bloom decay.

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Goodlatte Reintroduces Legislation To Open Virginia for Oil Production Representatives Bob Goodlatte reintroduced the “Virginia Access to Energy Act” this week. The legislation allows for the exploration of natural gas and crude oil in Virginia’s waters of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) and requires the Department of Interior, at the request of Virginia’s governor, to proceed with the Virginia lease sale no later than one year after passage of this legislation.

For many years the state has seriously considered the potential positive impact that OCS development off Virginia’s coast would have on the Commonwealth and in general there has been wide support for environmentally responsible energy production from the Governor, the General Assembly as well as local governments.

“Every day, folks across Virginia and the nation are confronted with the rising cost of energy, from the cost at the pump to soaring electric bills,” said Congressman Goodlatte.

“I believe that Virginia should have every tool available to access its energy supplies. The ‘Virginia Access to Energy Act’ will create a path for Virginia

to become ‘the Energy Capital of the East Coast.’”

It has been estimated by the U.S. Department of Interior’s Minerals Management Service that Virginia’s OCS has 130 million barrels of recoverable oil and 1.14 trillion cubic feet of recoverable natural gas. If tapped supporters believe this would translate into a significant boost to the economy of the Commonwealth. Some analysts have shown estimates that indicate development of Virginia’s OCS could create over 2,500 full-time equivalent positions on an annual basis, induce capital investment of $7.8 billion, yield nearly $645 million in direct and indirect payroll, and result in over $270 million in state and local taxes.

“There is a clear link between our willingness to tap American energy resources with job creation and national security,” said Congressman Scott Rigell, a lead cosponsor of the Virginia Access to Energy Act. “It is essential that we move forward with a comprehensive strategy that provides energy independence and I commend Congressman Goodlatte for introducing this

legislation.”

The “Virginia Access to Energy Act” authorizes that all revenue generated from extraction of these resources may be shared evenly with the state and federal government, with the federal share going to reduce to the national debt.

The Commonwealth’s share will be used to fund various state projects at the discretion of the state government.

Representatives Rob Wittman (VA-1), Scott Rigell (VA-2), Randy Forbes (VA-4), Robert Hurt (VA-5), Morgan Griffith (VA-9), and Frank Wolf (VA-10) joined Rep. Goodlatte as original cosponsors of the legislation, which has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources for further consideration.

Goodlatte continued, “Virginians understand that a major component in lessening energy costs is to produce more energy. In addition to helping us become energy independent, this legislation will help create thousands of jobs for Virginians and infuse the Commonwealth with new capital growth.”

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