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The Roanoke Star-Sentinel Community | News | Per spective

3/28/08

Red Cross honors Everyday Heroes Making Waves P6– Todd McGraw has already made a splash in the Roanoke Valley, now he’s setting his sights on the Olympics.

Project Faith P8– Students from Faith Christian partnered with the Rescue Mission to raise $120,000.

Storybook wedding at the library

Easter sunrise services

The Roanoke Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross held its annual Celebration of Heroes breakfast at the Hotel Roanoke on Tuesday, honoring people James Downing from the public service sector and other walks of life. All had been nominated for deeds ‘above and beyond’ during the past year or during their careers; most said they were just ordinary folks doing their jobs. WSLS-10 news anchor Karen McNew Community emceed and quoted something Ronald Reagan once said about heroes: “they are all around us…we don’t have to turn to the history books.” Heroes were honored in the categories of Medical, Firefighter, Law Enforcement, Emergency Responder, Good Samaritan, 9-1-1 Dispatch, Community Impact, Workplace, Military, and Educator.

Many live or work in Roanoke City, or like James Downing (a Patrick Henry alum) who grew up in Roanoke.

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TheRoanokeStar.com

Couple exchange vows at the public library

]

> CONTINUED P3: Heroes

Matrimony wasn’t only found in between the L’s and N’s in the downtown stacks of the Roanoke Public Library on Friday, March 14. It was also found at the wedding of Sam Knapp and Christina Owens, which coincidentally took place on the second floor of Library the downtown library.

Sam, an artist and sculptor, recently opened his art exhibition at the Roanoke Public Library through the library’s Emerging Artists program. Sam and Christina decided to get married in front of Sam’s exhibition at his opening. When the idea was introduced by his fiance, Sam thought she meant at that precise instant. Sam said, “We had no place in mind that was sentimental, and it’s somewhere different.”

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Photos by Stuart Revercomb

M

embers of Red Hill Baptist Church and others gathered early Sunday morning on Roanoke Mountain to welcome the very first glimmer of the Easter sunrise. Church members have been holding an informal Easter morning worship service

atop the mountain for years that includes the singing of hymns and some short reflections on the Gospel. Temperatures hovered in the low 40’s but the chilly air didn’t take away from the warmth as friends and strangers alike came together in song and praise.

]

> CONTINUED P3: Wedding

25 years of selling Hogs in the Valley Teens carry crosses

Lewis & Clark P2– The Science Museum of Western Virginia is showing Lewis & Clark through August 31.

When it comes right down to it Loyd Shiffer contends that selling motorcycles and accessories sure beats getting up at four in the morning to feed the chickens. That’s what the exfarmer from Wisconsin said as he reflected on 25 years of owning Roanoke Valley Harley-Davidson, Ltd., which sits on a hill at 1925 Peters Creek Road after being located previously near Shenandoah Avenue. Purchased by Loyd and wife Kathy in 1982 (“she was in on this from the ground floor,” he notes) the couple opened their doors officially in January of 1983 and just celebrated the dealership’s 25th anniversary, in Photo by Gene Marrano part by being recognized at the Harley-Davidson owner, Loyd Shiffer, poses with motorcycles in annual national sales meeting the showroom on Peters Creek. in San Antonio.

The Shiffers are actually the ten years to, “another one with now – the general public,” said fourth owners for the dealer- newer features,” notes Loyd, Shiffer, who employs about 30 ship that dates back to 1914. who sees the same custom- people, including three of his ers every so often for sales and children (Travis, Zack and Lib“I was a rider…a service. Consumers by) that have followed him into [Harley] fan,” said Local Buisness will spend between the business. Several have been Loyd about how he $6000 and $30,000 with him since he first purbecame an owner. for the privilege.

Most years chased the business and others Then there was that farm thing. he has weathered any ups and have been with the dealership “I just didn’t want to work seven downs in the economy but even longer. days a week [and] its something Roanoke Valley Harley-DaShiff er said sales were a bit slowthat I’m interested in. Not ever than usual until they started vidson has broken ground on a erybody has that luxury.” Ironito pick up again recently due to second location in Christianscally Loyd is from Wisconsin, the warmer weather. burg, where Shiffer expects to where Harleys and another line Over the past two and a half do well, marketing to students he sells, the sportier Buell modecades the demographics have just leaving local colleges with torcycles, are manufactured in changed also: it’s not just the Milwaukee. Harley-Davidson > CONTINUED now owns Buell. Avid bikers tattooed, leather clad, hardP3: Hogs core biker that buys the fabled like to update less than every “hog” these days. “It’s anybody

[

Hota Kotb P7– The “Today” coanchor will address Virginia Tech graduates this year at Lane Stadium on May 9.

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Photo by Daniel Vos

Students from Northside, William Fleming, Lord Botetourt, Patrick Henry, carry crosses past River’s Edge during “The Walk to Life” procession.

Smiling teenagers in t-shirts spent their Easter weekend carrying wooden crosses along a 13-mile route through south Roanoke. They were part of “The Walk to Life,” an outreach of Life Church in north Roanoke County.

“Our purpose is two-fold,” said Josh Bostic, youth pastor of Life Church. “One, to share

our passion for Jesus Christ by remembering what he did. Two, to give students the opportunity to invest in each others’ lives.”

Over the course of two days, the student group walked over 26 miles along a route begining

> CONTINUED P3: Crosses

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Page 2 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 3/28/08

TheRoanokeStar.com

Master Gardeners Program blossming in Roanoke Valley

The Master Gardener Program began in 1972 when Dr. David Gibby, then a Washington State University Cooperative Extension agent, found himself unable to keep up with the demands for basic gardening information from a public whose interest in home gardening was blossoming. Gibby and other extension staff members came up with the idea of providing knowledgeable amateurs with training from WSU Cooperative Extension faculty, and in return, these gardeners would volunteer to help the Cooperative Extension Service answer home gardening questions. The first 120 Master Gardeners finished training in 1973.

That same year, they answered the horticultural questions of more than 7,000 people. Today, the Master Gardener program exists in all 50 states and in four Canadian provinces and answers millions of questions each year.

Master Gardeners come from many backgrounds, but what they share is an enthusiasm for gardening and helping other gardeners. Master Gardener trainees pay about $90-$100 for materials and they receive approximately 50 hours of classes from their county extension office at no charge. The classes are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and every third year they have evening classes 6 p.m.

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until 9 p.m. The final exam is a take-home exam. When the exam is completed and passed (they have never had anyone to fail) you are then certified as a Master Gardener Trainee. You need to fulfill 50 more hours of volunteer work during that year to become a Certified Master Gardener. And you will need to put in 20 hours of volunteer work and 8 hours of continuing education each year thereafter to maintain your certification.

The Master Gardeners are trained to work on the “Help Line” at the Virginia Cooperative Extension Office. This is a lot of fun and participants learn a good deal. Good listening and asking questions is important on the help desk, and they are never afraid to say “I don’t know, but I will find out and call you back”. The best part is that everything you look up for someone else is one more thing you have learned.

Another way that Master Gardeners help the Extension Office is to answer plant questions at plant-diagnosis clinics at their Spring Plant sale, the Farmers Market in Salem and different festivals held in the area. They also work with the 4H children’s gardens and school gardens. Sev-

Call Today!

345-7737

eral Master Gardeners volunteer on a regular basis at the Community Arboretum at VA Western Community College. An important project that they will be doing in the next few months is constructing a demonstration rain garden at the Roanoke Council of Garden Clubs building on Colonial Avenue.

“For the past ten years that I have been a Master Gardener, I have given 5,000 hours of volunteer time,” said Shelby Snyder.

“I worked the Help Line for five years straight, working the same day each the week most of the

time. I learned so much more during this time. I have volunteered at an Assisted Living Home almost every Thursday for the past five years, teaching residents through Horticulture Therapy. This has been the most fulfilling work I have done. The residents enjoy getting outdoors when they can and getting their hands in the soil in the garden my husband and I have built for them. We look forward each year to planting new plants in the containers and raised beds .”

The Master Gardeners have a Spring Plant Sale each year at

Lewis and Clark’s excellent adventure on tap Through careful research and meticulous recreations, this scientific expedition lives again on the big screen. Movie-goers will go back 200 years to experience this monumental quest—the adventure, danger and beauty of the unmapped West.

Meriwether Lewis and William Clark began their journey in Botetourt County—departing from Fincastle, VA in 1803—commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson to explore the Louisiana Purchase. The film chronicles the group of explorers led by Lewis and Clark out of Virginia and into uncharted territory to find a water passageway to the Pacific Ocean and describe for science the wonders of the west.

The expedition conquered raging rivers, buffalo-filled prairies, sub-zero temperatures and rugged mountains on their 8,000-mile journey to the Pacific Ocean and back. The generosity of Native Americans is detailed, including the story of Sacagawea, a teen-aged Native American girl who accompanied the group and whose contributions were invaluable to the success of the

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Photo courtesy Master Gardener Program

A Master Gardener helps with a community project.

the Brambleton Center to raise money for projects, because they have no money coming in from other sources. They have a variety of perennials and shrubs at great prices. The Plant Sale this year is April 12, 8 a.m. until noon.

Again this year they are having a Tea Thyme Tea room Brunch from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and from noon until 2 p.m. the same day as their plant sale. The Tea Thyme Tearoom is reminiscent of an English teatime. The menu is Ham & Cheese Quiche, Stuffed tomato, Muffin, Deserts and tea or coffee. The price is $12 per person. They did sell out last year, so be sure to get your tickets early! For reservations to the tea, please call Shelby Snider – 992-3644, Kathryn Debnar – 797-1146, Betty Luber – 473 -1789 or Bonnie Surface – 977-0545, after 10 a.m. ds. But most of all they enjoy the Flowers.”

To get more information on how to become a Master Gardener, contact the County Extension Office at 772-7524. To get help from a Master Gardener, you can visit the Extension Office at The Brambleton Center, 3738 Brambleton Ave. SW, or call the Help Line at 776-7176.

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expedition.

Back in Botetourt County, two years after his return to Virginia, Clark married Julia Hancock of

Fincastle at Santillane on January 5, 1808.

Because of the film’s important local connections, the Bank

of Botetourt is leading a consortium of Botetourt-based businesses in sponsoring the film.

“We’re happy to partner with the Science Museum of Western Virginia in order to help build a brighter future for our children and for our community.” Lyn Hayth, President of the Bank of Botetourt.

Carris Plastics and NTELOS are also sponsors in bringing the film to the community.

In addition, the Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce is underwriting the cost of tickets for the first 300 schoolchildren from the Botetourt County Public Schools who come to see the film while on school field trips to the Museum.

Tickets are $5 adults; $4.50 seniors; $4 children (ages 3-12).

Tickets for all age groups are discounted to $3 for members, for visitors in addition to regular Museum admission, or for visitors during Free Friday Afternoons—the second Friday of each month from noon-6 p.m. when Museum admission is free.

> Hogs From page 1

discretionary income to burn.

The occasional professor having his midlife crisis is also known to purchase a bike now and then. He hopes to open the New River Valley store by August.

Local Harley riders out for a solo run or group touring take full advantage of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the back roads that

meander through southwest Virginia and nearby West Virginia. The dealership organizes weekend rides from its parking lot on occasion. “It’s a beautiful part of the country to ride in,” said Shiffer, who doesn’t do as much of that as he used to but relishes the environment at his dealership, which also features a full line of Harley-Davidson

apparel. “It’s being around like-minded people that enjoy riding,” he adds. Roanoke Valley Harley-Davidson, Ltd. will keep the 25th anniversary party going with an open house on May 10th, complete with food from Bad Wolf Barbecue. (call 562-5424 for more information)

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

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Clothing the community is local woman’s goal

Dayna Palmer, who runs two local networking workshops focused on services for women and children, now has her sights set on helping those who need clothes and cannot afford them. “Clothing our Community� will take gently used articles of clothing and make them available to the public at 309 W. Campbell Avenue in downtown Roanoke on April 12. Whatever is not picked up that day will be donated to the Roanoke Rescue Mission. “Some people can’t even afford

five, ten cents [for an item],� says Palmer.

Shoes and blankets will be accepted as well but no toys or household goods.

Until April 1 Palmer, who also teaches youth swimming at the Roanoke Athletic Club, will arrange for pickup from a person’s home if they wish to donate clothes.

After that items can be dropped off at several locations and at 309 W. Campbell. J.C. Penney and Belk are chipping in with the donation of clothes racks and hangers. “We

just need all that we can get,� says Palmer, who runs the Roanoke4women.com and Roanoke4 kids.com websites, where busy people can shop, look for local stores and find information to help make life a bit easier. As for Clothing Our Community, call 797-1166 to arrange a clothes pickup or for information about local drop off locations. “This is our community,� says Palmer, a Canadian by birth, “my goal is always to make a difference.’

CASA art show scheduled April 3 at Jefferson Center April 3, the doors of Fitzpatrick Hall at the Jefferson Center will open at 6 p.m. to again welcome the public to a unique opportunity to purchase art created by more than 100 professional artists and area students.

Patrons will also again be treated to a live exhibition by four artists: Judy Bates, Judith R Damon, Marie Gobble Levine, and Kay Sutherland. These artists will rotate among four large canvasses.

Following the rotation, the cooperative artistic creations will be auctioned off to benefit the

CASA program.

In addition, this year, the event will welcome back nationally known artist Ray Kass who will allow the patrons to participate in a hands- on zen painting experience.

Gari Stephenson will judge the panels submitted by the area artists and a cash award will be presented for the adult and student “best in show�.

Roanoke Valley Court Appointed Special Advocates are trained volunteers who are appointed by judges to advocate for

the best interests of abused and neglected children. The child victims are thrust into the confusing world of foster care and court appearances, and are faced with the anxiety of not knowing what their future will hold for months at a time. The CASA volunteer works with each child until they are placed in a safe, permanent and nurturing home.

Cases involve children from every socioeconomic level in the Roanoke Valley.

The art event Kaleidoscope 2008 will include music, great

food by Outback Restaurant, beer, wine and soft drinks. Admission is $40 per ticket and all attendees are welcome to purchase the art panels displayed throughout the hall and to bid on the completed live art pieces.

The event is scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m.

For more information, contact the CASA office at 540-853-2407, or check the website www.roanokevalleycasa.org.

3/28/08 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 3

Council adopts Regional Greenways, Bikeways plan

At its March 17 meeting, Roanoke City Council adopted the Regional Greenways and Bikeways Plans, a Complete Streets Policy, and agreed to apply for a Bicycle Friendly Community award.

The Regional Greenways and Bikeways Plans show off- and onstreet routes for non-motorized transportation and recreation opportunities. Complete Streets will improve travel conditions for all street users while providing local connections between regional greenway and bikeway corridors. If granted, the Bicycle Friendly Community designation will recognize the city’s efforts to expand the network of greenways, bikeways, and complete streets.

City Council adopted the Complete Streets Policy to ensure that all transportation agencies within the city routinely plan, fund, design, construct, operate, and maintain their streets according to the Complete Street principles of the city’s “Street Design Guidelines� completed in July 2007. The goal is to create an attractive connected multimodal network that balances the needs of street users of all ages and abilities such as pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and motorists, except where there are demonstrated exceptional circumstances.

The Policy explains the types of exceptional circumstances where accommodating all street users may not be reasonable or feasible and concludes by stating the actions the city will undertake to implement Complete Streets and evaluate their success in creating Complete Streets.

The Greenways Plan, Bikeways Plan, Complete Streets Policy, and the Street Design Guidelines are available at www.roanokeva.gov/ planning.

Rock Symphony Circus RSO’s premier fundraiser “Rock Symphony Circus, Cirque Goes Rock ‘n Roll� is the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra’s premier fundraising event of the year, taking place on Saturday, May 31, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. at the Roanoke Civic Center Coliseum.

Rock Symphony Circus was created by the RSO to raise awareness of its own programs and to serve citizens in the Roanoke region and beyond. Rock Symphony Circus is a concerted effort to cast a wide net of appeal to a broad and diverse audience. The event will also raise funds needed to continue the RSO’s successes in attracting high quality instrumentalists and world renowned guest artists to Roanoke through-

out its regular concert season, while improving the organization’s outreach initiatives to underserved communities.

The event itself is fun, unique, exciting, and accessible to all.

With this mission, the RSO marries three unique elements; Cirque du Soleil veterans, Rock ‘n Roll, and Roanoke’s own professional symphony orchestra for an evening of delightful sounds, mesmerizing visual elements, and palate pleasures.

This Cirque performance will mark a first for Roanoke -never before has a Cirque du Soleil style event taken place in the region. Audience members will be tantalized by the soaring, seductive, graceful panache of the Cirque performers

on stage, overhead, and even in the audience. Extraordinary rock artists Jeans ‘n Classics, will join Maestro David Wiley and the RSO, along with the Cirque performers for a second half dedicated to Rock ‘n Roll -- and it all builds to a grand finale crescendo that will bring the house down! The RSO invites you to participate in the debut of this unique and engaging experience that is sure to become a tradition.

Tickets to this special event are on sale now for table seats as well as general admission stadium seats starting at $25 for general admission, $15 for ages 18 and under. Contact the RSO box office at (540) 343-9127 for tickets and details. Corporate

enth grader Sasha Harrison said. “We’ve gotten some weird looks and rude comments, but lots of praise as well.�

However, the walking tour of south Roanoke was not without its unexpected challenges. “Carrying a cross is heavy,� said Katie Wright, one of the youngest participants. “It hurts your shoulder.� “It’s been painful,� said tenth grader Lauren Copolo. “But it is worth it, because you know you are making a difference.�

Tani Penn-Timity, a ninth grader, said that at the beginning of their walk on Saturday, the group had been accosted by a man yelling “Jesus is fake!� “Everyone who sees us is wondering and thinking about Christianity, either positive or negative,� said Sasha Harrison.

Ninth grader Sarah Szmaja said she hoped that “The Walk

for Life� would show the people of Roanoke how much Jesus loves them.

This is the second year for “The Walk to Life.� Josh Bostic said that he got the idea for “The Walk to Life� from his days as a student in a youth ministry in Richlands, Va., southwest of Blacksburg. Life Church was one of about a dozen churches in the Appalachian District of the Assemblies of God to organize a walk this Easter.

Life Church is located near the intersection of Peters Creek and Williamson Road. The Assemblies of God is a Pentecostal denomination with over 12,000 congregations in the U.S. and over 400 congregations in Virginia and West Virginia.

and individual sponsorships are also available, including dinner, wine and other exclusive benefits. Contact RSO development director Caroline Hammond at caroline. hammond@rso.com or (540) 343-6221 ext. 225 for sponsorship details and benefits.

The RSO’s 2007-2008 concert season continues with “Art Garfunkel: Bridge Over Troubled Water� April 11th at Salem Civic Center with Art Garfunkel in concert. The April 11 concert is sponsored

by Allstate and SunTrust. Tickets and information for this concert are available online at the RSO’s web site at www.rso. com.

> Crosses From page 1

at Roanoke Memorial Hospital and criss-crossing south Roanoke several times. Clad in shorts and t-shirts, the students took turns carrying two large wooden crosses, while others shared the duty of carrying a banner, which read “The Walk to Life 2008.�

Students from Northside, William Fleming, Lord Botetourt, and Patrick Henry were among the participants.

Prior to the two-day walk, the students gathered pledges from sponsors. Bostic said that money raised from the walk would go to support Speed-the-Light, a student-run missions program of the Assemblies of God, the Pentecostal denomination with which Life Church is affiliated.

As the students completed the fourth leg of the walk on Saturday morning, many students had positive comments. “It’s been life-changing,� elev-

By Daneil Vos dvosster@gmail.com

> Wedding From page 1

The wedding was small and simple, limited only to several family members.

Sam and Christina met in Sam’s native Southern Florida, where they were both attending art school. From there Sam and

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“Overcoming Challenges & Building Brighter Futures�

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Christina moved to New Jersey, where Sam attended graduate school.

Christina is a native of Roanoke, and due to high living costs in New Jersey, the couple decided to move to Roanoke,

where they now reside. Sam has recently opened an art studio, and Christina is a graphic designer for “Bella� magazine.

By Stephen Nelson info@theroanokestar.com

> Heroes From page 1

Downing is a Virginia Tech senior and a member of the VT Rescue Squad that were among the first responders last April 16 when the shootings began on campus. “We’re regular people.

We were just doing our jobs that day,� said Downing after receiving a plaque and salutations.

Roanoke police officers were honored for intervening in a domestic violence situation and for

Bart’s Tailoring

trying to save a man who committed suicide.

Four city firefighters that pulled a West Virginia man from a burning ambulance at Carilion Roanoke Memorial and Barbara Smith, the just-retired director of Roanoke Refugee and Immigration Services were among those honored at A Celebration of Heroes. The youngest honoree was Roanoke Catholic senior Beth

Levy, headed to Virginia Tech in the fall to pursue an education degree. Levy headed up U.S. Kids Care, which asked the Roanoke community to donate school supplies that went to needy children and other projects. “[People] can make a difference if they try.

Its just such a wonderful thing,� said Levy.

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

The Roanoke Star-Sentinel

What Happens When You Don’t Advertise?

Nothing!

Meet Tina Gimbert this weekend at the Home Show & Better Living Expo to learn how to market your business, home or service for less than you think.

The Roanoke Star-Sentinel

Tina Gimbert

P ersPective Associations do not determine our character Page 4 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 3/28/08

S

ince I may run for elected office again one day, I need to make some changes to my life. I’ve decided I’m not going to church anymore. I was baptized a Catholic.

We know how the Pope feels about gay rights, abortion rights, women’s rights and a host of other issues. Until recently, we know all about how the Catholic Church has historically felt about the Jews and Israel. Going to a Catholic Church might make people think I’m always in agreement with the Pope on important issues, although I’m not.

I’ve just remembered that when I go to church these days, I go to an Evangelical Christian Church. Now, I’m really in trouble if I decide to run for elected office again. Evangelical Christians are more conservative than Catholics. Plus, some people may remember there

was a time when Evangelical wrong idea on how I feel about Christian Churches preached human and civil rights issues for segregation and against in- even if my pastor and I are not always in agreement tegration. on those issues.

Never mind that my I’ve decided that I pastor saved my life need to get rid of all by putting me on the of my books on Malroad for a better recolm X, especially lationship with Jesus “The AutobiograChrist. Never mind that I like the way phy of Malcolm X.� my pastor preaches.

I don’t want to give Never mind that my people the wrong pastor has given me idea. Never mind that Jeff Artis a greater understand40 years ago Brother ing of the Bible. Never Malcolm said the mind that my pastor makes my same thing Bill Cosby is saying family and I feel welcome on today. Never mind that Brother Sunday mornings. Never mind Malcolm said the Black comthat a few years ago, my pastor munity has problems that only and his congregation helped my the Black community can solve. family and I through some very Nope. Brother Malcolm said difficult times and continue to some rough things. I don’t want do so. And with my pastor being people thinking I’m in agreea White guy, people just might ment with everything Brother not understand our relation- Malcolm said if I enter politics ship. Plus, people might get the again.

Roanoke Revisited

W

elcome to “Roanoke Revisited�

- my new twicemonthly column that will cover people, places and events from Roanoke history. I am excited to have the opportunity to present some of the facts of our local history in this space, as I know many Roanokers have never heard much of our intriguing

and entertaining past. Some of it’s colorful to be sure, and most of it involves positive developments, but there are plenty of moments that were, shall we say, “less than progress.�

But Roanoke has come a long way from its roots as a wild and woolly railroad town, “far on the outskirts of civilized Virginia,� and the stories these mountains

;LN +IIL?

5?F>CHA 0?J;CL -LH;G?HN;F $?H=CHA I specialize in Handrail Repair

I need to quit the Southern Christian Leadership Conference since Dr. King was involved in many direct action operations that ended in violence. Even The Roanoke Times said Dr. King got what he deserved when he was assassinated. Nope, I don’t want people thinking I’m going to cause riots if I’m elected to public office.

I also need to do something about my fellowship from the University of Virginia. The school’s founder, Thomas Jefferson, wrote that whenever a government fails to provide for the rights of the people, it’s the duty of the people to overthrow and abolish that government. I don’t want people thinking I’m affiliated with a revolutionary.

Now do you see the lunacy over the Barack Obama / Re. Jeremiah Wright controversy?

Sponsored by could tell are of a • Roanoke’s connechard working comtion to Frederick the munity that providGreat of Prussia. ed key supplies for We are blessed with two World Wars and a rich and fascinating an infrastructure for history. I look forward transporting coal to sharing it with you that would eventuevery other week here ally become a major in the Roanoke Star distribution center Sentinel!

Bud Feuer is a retired for all sorts of comBud Feurer journalist with 50 years modities. experience in the newsBut it’s the people, places and events that have made paper, magazine and book busius who we are - and some of ness. After retiring in 1985, Bud them that I’ll be writing about in moved to Roanoke, VA and began a venture into the publishing field. upcoming issues include: • Roanoke’s involvement with Over the last 20 years, Bud pubthe invention of the cigarette lished over a dozen books, and has written several hundred storolling machine • The story of the strange and ries that have appeared in newsstand magazines. (Visit his webfascinating Denton tombstone • Charlie Carson’s amazing site at www.abfeuer.com) Bud is also a member of the Society of midget vegetables Professional Journalists and the American Society of Journalists and Authors. He was recently presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the University of Notre Dame.

If you have a local history story that you feel would be of interest to our readers, contact Bud at 342-3222 or email him at: abfeuer@cox.net

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Supreme Court says “No guns�

W

hat part of “shall in the Constitution to protect not be infringed� themselves and their families doesn’t govern- from criminals – and even worse ment understand? – a tyrannical governAlthoughtheSecond ment turned against its Amendment to the U. people. Our Founding S. Constitution is very Fathers knew that the clear that the right to new government they bear arms “shall not be had established could infringed,� significant threaten the very freegovernment regulation doms for which they of firearms has existed had just fought. The since the late 1800s.

Second Amendment (Those first laws were guaranteed the people created to keep blacks Brian Gottstein would have the firefrom owning guns.) arms necessary to deToday, there are fend against the sort of more than 20,000 laws across the government abuse of their rights nation regulating gun ownership the British had committed. and use. Most – I would argue “The strongest reason for the – are unconstitutional, because, people to retain the right to keep just like a woman can’t be “a little and bear arms is, as a last resort, pregnant,� the government can’t to protect themselves against tyrviolate the Constitution and the anny in government.� – Thomas rights of mentally stable, law- Jefferson abiding citizens “just a little bit.�

(Of course, we let government The U. S. Supreme Court has erode our rights all the time by been reluctant to issue Second continually electing overzealous, Amendment rulings for de- power-hungry politicians; but cades (the last major ruling was technically, we do have a say in in 1939). Last week, however, the whole process.) the Court heard a case that may To the average person, that determine whether the federal, a right “shall not be infringed� state, and local governments can means the right shall not be enban people from owning certain croached upon – period. That types of guns. At issue is the Dis- even means the slightest bit of entrict of Columbia’s ban on private croachment is prohibited. Some handgun possession, the coun- are trying to argue that D.C. can try’s toughest gun-control law. outlaw handguns, as long as peoThe Court is trying to determine ple can still use rifles and shotif the right to bear arms is an indi- guns. That’s not what the Bill of vidual right to own a gun for self- Rights says. It doesn’t say, “can be defense, and if a ban on particular infringed... up to the point where firearms infringes on our Second we (the government) decide we Amendment guarantee. The rul- have to stop, so we don’t fully ing could have significant impact trample the Constitution.� on every other gun law in the naGeorge Washington in his tion. first address to Congress made it I could produce the typi- abundantly clear, and his words cal reams of evidence from FBI are just as true today, that “Firecrime statistics and other reports arms stand next in importance that show that just the presence of to the Constitution itself. They a gun prevents crime in millions are the people’s liberty teeth keyof cases each year, and that the stone... the rifle and the pistol number of accidental and homi- are equally indispensable... more cidal deaths by guns pales in com- than 99% of them by their silence parison to deaths by drowning, indicate that they are in safe and car accidents, and even medical sane hands. The very atmosphere mistakes. of firearms everywhere restrains But all that is not really im- evil interference.� portant here. What’s more imThe case is District of Columportant is the American people’s bia v. Heller, and it will be decided fundamental right guaranteed in late June.

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Perspective

3/28/08 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 5

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Letters

Easy trip to D.C. provides a needed reminder

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t has been at least 25 years and 14 year olds seemed interested since I visited Washington if not intrigued – which is no small D.C. and the last time I was feat considering the unimpressionthere I wasn’t exactly taking in the able nature of the species. history so much as the music and During dinner at the “Old Ebbitt the good times as part of a small Grill” on our last night, I asked the group of about 500,000 who had children what they had found most joined me on the mall to take in a interesting on the trip. As one might band who’s name I can no longer reexpect, the answers were as varied member. Yes. I am that old. as their personalities, ranging from Last week I returned to Washingthe sculpture gardens to the CapiStuart Revercomb tal building to the 3-D IMAX movton as your average tourist with my wife and four children ages 8, 10, ies on building the Space Station 13 and 14. We had decided that the time was that we had seen at the Smithsonian Air and right to see the sights and give them a first hand Space Museum. 8 year old Rob didn’t hesitate opportunity to gain a sense of where we come with his answer. “That’s easy Dad – the Metro from and what makes us who we are as these was the coolest thing in the city.” (Washington’s “United States.” efficient and ultra modern subway.) I couldn’t It was a fabulous trip - we walked the Mall, fault him there – it is an extraordinary example went to the Smithsonian Museums and visited of American ingenuity and vision. all the usual memorials, including the Lincoln, But for me the answer was undeniably Washington, Vietnam and relatively new WW the World War II memorial that was comII memorial. We also received a personal tour pleted in 1995 - and the experience of walkof the capital led by an intern from Bob Good- ing through it, unlike that concert in 1983, latte’s office. Somehow I had forgotten that the will stay with me forever. I hadn’t expected capital building is as old as it is – when you it to impact me beyond any other memorial’s travel underground from the Rayburn build- ability to do so, but it quickly swept me in ing to the basement of the capital, you actually and inspired a greater collective feeling of enter through corridors that were originally what our forefathers must have envisioned constructed between 1793 and 1800. George this country could be in its very best moWashington himself laid the first cornerstone. ments.

After three days of exploring we were overThe memorial itself is majestic with its two whelmed by the depth of effort and resources large pavilions on either end dedicated to the that have gone into the building of this amaz- Pacific and Atlantic theatres of war that are ing and complex country. Its one thing to read connected by 56 granite pillars representit in books – quite another to have it framed ing each state and territory in the US at the up for you as you touch, taste and smell your time of the conflict. The pillars and pavilions way through the workings of it all. Even the 13 form a large circle around a shallow pool in

between. There is an additional wall close to the pool opposite the entrance that conListing of facility as ‘community center’ navigates a looptains 4000 gold stars upon its granite surface hole – each one representing 10,000 of the over Dear editor, 400,000 American men and women that lost Mill Mountain Park, like all Roanoke city parks, is zoned as “Recretheir lives in the war. Two long lines of ancient oaks run from the memorial past the ation and Open Space”, or ROS. There are fourteen allowable land uses long established reflecting pool all the way to under ROS zoning, three possible uses under special exceptions, and two accessory uses. ROS zoning prohibits restaurants. the Lincoln Memorial to the west.

Interestingly, Valley Forward is using the name “Rockledge CommuBut in the end it was the words chiseled nity Center” for their commercial development proposal for this city deep upon these tablets and walls that moved park. Even more interestingly, “community centers” are one of the alme to both tears and the simple understand- lowable uses of ROS land. ing that the best and most noble aspect of the Why would Valley Forward call it a “community center” if 70 perhuman heart is its uncanny ability to give and cent of the square footage is planned for restaurants? Surely, it is not sacrifice itself in love when the real needs of mere coincidence that restaurants are prohibited under ROS zoning, others demand it. They were the words of but community centers are allowed.

I encourage city residents who oppose the commercialization of city Presidents and Generals and brave leaders of men, but the simplicity of which they spoke park land to become informed about each mayoral and city Council about mankind’s capacity to come bravely to candidate’s position on the future of Mill Mountain Park.The willingness to uphold existing zoning is a critical issue impacting every city neighthe aid of one another was nothing short of borhood and resident. “salvational.”

David Bowers, independent candidate for Mayor, has clearly articulatPerhaps Walter Lord said it best for the ed his opposition to commercial development in Mill Mountain Park. I greater war effort, for the country and for applaud him for expressing a clear position, and hope that all candidates 4/26/2006 3:25will PMprovide Page an 1 equally definitive statement. humanity star itself team.qxd when he summed up the efforts and sacrifices’ made at the Battle of Gail Burruss Roanoke Midway fought June 2-4 1942 with these simple words. . .

What happened to Cutler’s retirement?

“They had no right to win. Yet they did, Dear editor, and in doing so they changed the course of Now that the list of suspects for filling the seat vacated by Alfred a war . . . Even against the greatest of odds, Dowe has been narrowed to four, I find it ironic that Mr. Cutler, who did there is something in the human spirit – a not seek reelection to council because he wanted to enjoy his retiremagical blend of skill, faith and valor – that ment and Mr. Nash, who resigned from the school board because of can lift men from certain defeat to incredible “time constraints” are both in the final four. Neither has demonstrated victory.” sound thought process in their public capacity; however, odds are it We as Americans are blessed beyond our will be one of the two. The logical choice would be Ms. Sanchez - a knowing - and an easy trip to Washington to woman who represents the growing Hispanic community; but when better breath it all in is a remarkable oppor- has this council ever demonstrated logic.After all we have a $60 million museum and no where to park the projected visitors. Just more of the tunity for Roanokers, whatever your age. “good ole boy” politics.

J. Glen Fleenor Roanoke

Good things take time – my son’s bat even longer

E

very spring my son and I sojourn to the foothills of Southwestern Virginia in search of baseball magic.

Amidst the cattle pastures and hidden stills, sits a baseball/softball wonderland filled with treasures beyond the dreams of any fifteen year old baseball fanatic. Located in Pearisburg, Direct Sports is primarily a mail order business, although there is a small retail store attached to their warehouse for those locals who like to browse among the cleats. This is my son’s favorite spot on earth.

Both Will and I have been making this pilgrimage for years, sort of a rite of spring if you will. During our visits Will has established a reputation with the store’s retail staff as a “high maintenance” type of customer. When I say “high maintenance,” imagine Paris Hilton frock shopping in Beverly Hills. The promise of substantial commissions is present for some lucky salesperson, yet not without a journey into madness.

Today’s mission; find a bat for the 2008 season. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the price of baseball bats these days, let’s just say the cheaper ones cost more than my first car. I had forgotten to take my glasses with me on the trip and could not read any of the

prices in the catalog, a dilemma which might of water and fanned her brow with a spare have been a positive for my blood pressure, yet catalog every twenty minutes to keep her fresh painful for my wallet. As I near the age of fifty, and alert. Finally (after several hours), we were my peepers continue to betray me. My next down to the final cut. Some of the telemarketeye glass prescription will probably be a guide ing people had even emerged from their backdog. room desk areas to witness this historic sales The boy would begin the testing process moment. A crowd of a dozen or more people with three bats from three different manufac- gathered as a final test swing cut through the turers. Like a connoisseur of air. White smoke billowed fine wines he sampled each from the ventilation ducts Jon Kaufman bat, swinging from both side high atop the warehouse. The of the dish (his jacket on the moment of truth had arrived! floor of the showroom represented home An audible gasp could be heard as an “Easplate). He then balanced a bat in each hand ton Stealth,” thirty three inch and thirty ounce weighing them against each other, repeating beauty was thrust to the sky in triumph! that weighing process with all three items, two ‘This bat shall be mine!” cried the boy, and at a time. the people smiled with approval.

Our salesperson fell to the ground, like a Finally my son remarked “Dad, those were nice but I need to see some more models be- marathoner crossing the finish line thankfore I make my final decision”. The salesperson ful that the worst was over. Seconds later she and I exchanged sympathetic eye rolls as we would feel a light tapping on her shoulder.

‘Hey, lady, get up” said the boy “I need to pressed on.

In total, fourteen bats were weighed, swung look at some catcher’s bags and turf shoes”.

Hours later we exited the store with several and tested. Our attentive if not exhausted salesperson remained smiling and helpful hundred dollars of merchandise in tow. The throughout. This poor soul was busier than a showroom closed early that day to allow the Tokyo claims adjuster after a visit from Godz- “I waited on Jon’s son” support group to greet, illa.. Her co-workers brought her small cups welcome, and revive its newest member.

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Page 6 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 3/28/08

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Virginia Gator is hoping to become Olympic champion After only two years in Roanoke, William Byrd senior and Virginia Gator swimmer Todd McGraw has already made quite a splash in the competitive pools around the valley. Now he aims to make a splash in the biggest pool of all, the Beijing Summer Olympics.

McGraw has already qualified for the Olympic trials, and, while doing so, has broken quite a few records. While competing in the Victorian Championships in Melbourne, Australia for the junior national team, he placed second in the 200-meter butterfly. For most high school seniors qualifying for the Olympic trials in one event would be enough, but not for McGraw. After qualifying in the butterfly he turned his attention to the 400-meter individual medley. McGraw swam a time of 4 minutes and 32 seconds and placed second in the international meet. Not bad for a record-smashing swimmer from Beckley, West Virginia.

But what brought McGraw to Roanoke the first place?

McGraw’s family used to drive him two hours to and from practice and home while in West Virginia. Then he got his license and made the drive from Beckley to Charleston himself. His times were getting better, but not as fast as he liked.

The time wasted in transit ate at

him. He wanted to use that time to train and lift more instead of wasting it behind the wheel of a car. That motivation prompted another trip, only this one was permanent. McGraw moved to Roanoke and enrolled at William Byrd High School where he began training under the watchful eye of Virginia Gators Head Coach, and founder, Doug Fonder.

The Gators are a multi-city swim program set up to develop sound stroke techniques and introduce specialized training concepts to swimmers as they gain experience in the sport.

Fonder’s credentials include recognition as a YMCA coach of the year, and an international coach who has worked with world-ranked swimmers and Olympians. The Gators also have a talented coach in Greg Lake who also has an extensive resume so McGraw will not be lacking the coaching staff to help launch his Olympic career.

By all indications McGraw has the heart, drive and willpower necessary to reach his lofty goals. Coach Fonder says, “Athletes today are, for the most part, lacking in integrity - we need more good athletes and role models and we believe that Todd is one of those good athletes.”

McGraw has broken many lo-

cal and state records this year and holds some of the top times in six categories around the region. He set a state record in the 200-meter individual medley and broken countless Virginia Gator meet records. He has also helped the Gators remain one of the top swimming programs on the East Coast. The team proved that when they won the Pittsburg Christmas Invitational.

“I had a hard time adjusting to the extra swim times in practice and weight-lifting along with being away from my family at first,” McGrraw said. “But I like it here now and the extra training has definitely helped out a lot. Adjusting to the different coaching styles was hard too, but I’ve gotten used to it.”

In addition to the opportunity to compete against the top swimmers in the world, Todd has earned a scholarship to the University of Georgia where he will swim and compete for the ninth-ranked Bulldogs next year. After placing third in the junior national championships for the 200-meter butterfly and earning a spot on the national team McGraw said he feels ready for the challenges to come.

“My next step is to swim my best time at the Olympic trials in June,” McGraw said. “That’s what I’m training for right now.

My goal is to bring my time un-

Todd McGraw making a splash as a Virginia Gator der two minutes as much as I can. I think I am ranked about fifteenth nationally, right now, so I would like to place in the top eight at the trials. My longterm goals are to help Georgia win the SEC and for me to do my best and win at the NCAA tournament next year . . . And in another four years, if I don’t make it this year, then make

the Olympic team for 2012. The transition won’t be as hard because I feel that I have already made a more difficult transition from my family to come here.”

Todd will continue to train at the Gator Aquatic Center on Overland Road next to Virginia Western Community College for the Olympic trials. The trials will be June 29-July 6 in Omaha,

Nebraska. In August he’ll make another trip where he will compete as a true freshman for the Georgia Bulldogs. The future looks more than promising for this fine young Fleming swimmer.

By Jason Hawes jasonhawessports@gmail.com

Want soccer players to compete longer? Train coaches better The Roanoke Star Soccer Club organization, which takes soccer travel teams from this area to other parts of the world, prides itself on having a bevy of good coaches. That is, those that have played the game, can motivate their young players and keep up on the latest techniques. But it never hurts to listen to the experts and that’s what Star executive director Danny Beamer did recently, inviting a handful of college, high school and recreation soccer coaches and administrators to a session with Jeffrey Tipping. Originally from Liverpool, England, the long time college coach and professional player is now Director of Coaching for the National Soccer Coaches

Association of America. “It’s extremely important to bring in people like this,” said Beamer of his guest speaker.

Tipping oversees the residential and non-residential coaching education programs and heads up the NSCAA’s distance learning, independent study and learning and Master Coach Programs. He brought his expertise to Frank’s Pizza on Brambleton Avenue one night recently, showing PowerPoint presentations of training exercises used in other countries. Tipping lamented the fact that American youth soccer players seem to spend much less time practicing here than their counterparts in other countries, where there is often less com-

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petition from other sports for a young athlete’s time. While many Americans know who Joe DiMaggio was (even if they aren’t huge fans of baseball) few know the names from soccer – called football almost everywhere else – outside of David Beckham or perhaps the legendary Pele.

Among those gathered to hear Tipping was Hidden Valley girls head coach Roy Lax, Roanoke College Men’s coach Scot Allison, coaches from Patrick Henry, William Fleming, William Byrd, Cave Spring, Valley AFC, the Roanoke Star program - and others from as far away as VMI and programs in Martinsville.

“I’m very interested in the development of coach’s careers,” said Tipping, recognizing that development keeps coaches (and thus the players) motivated.

Despite being dressed in a sport coat and slacks and with limited room, Tipping showed off a few tricks that those in attendance might be able to use with their own players, on techniques for dribbling, passing, receiving and heading the ball.

He spends much of his time traveling to meet with American coaches, “in a different environment [than] in other countries.

We’re not really surrounded by a soccer culture here.” Those involved do seem to coach longer

here than elsewhere, one more reason why keeping them updated and motivated is a prime concern according to Tipping. At 14 or 15 years old, young soccer players often start to think about other sports, fast cars or the opposite sex and “need a fairly sophisticated coach,” to keep them motivated.

Don’t run from tough teams either: playing top competition is “the number one way to get better,” he added. Repetition in practice “is the mother of learning,” said Tipping, who showed one video of Brazilian boys living at a group home, dribbling and shooting a soccer ball endlessly at a cement wall.

The Brazilians often practice with music blaring in the background and Tipping marvels at their flair on the pitch. “It is so impressive – how creative they are,” said Scot Allison, who has brought some of his Roanoke College teams to Brazil.

Things are improving soccerwise in the states said Tipping: more Americans can compete in European leagues on equal footing and Major League Soccer (MLS) is one of the most widely supported circuits in the world. Much rides on the shoulders of mentors, one reason the Roanoke Star program pushes coaches training so

hard. “There’s certain secrets of the game players will never discover [without] the coach,” said Tipping, who alluded to various stages in a young player’s career, from discovery, to romance (9 to 12 years old), to commitment and fulfillment at 16-plus. Getting American players past the discovery and romance age and into programs like Valley AFC or Roanoke Star is the trick.

Tipping touted the NSCAA’s master program as well, say-

ing, “the best coaches always remain very competitive.” The final word was about fun however: enjoy coaching he said, because “the asylums are full of people who do not know how to have fun. Don’t forget that it is a game.” (Contact nscaa. com and roanokestar.com for more information on coaching education and the Roanoke Star program)

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

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Will Fralin (#3) of North Cross takes a shot on goal in the closing minutes of the Middle School’s game against the Lexington Lacrosse Club. The Raiders jumped to an early lead and prevailed in their opener by a score of 10-3.

Roanoke Valley Senior Tour Kickoff The 2008 Roanoke Valley Senior Tour held it’s first event at Hanging Rock on Thursday, March 20th. There were 110 participants who braved the elements with both temperatures and winds in the 40’s.

The overall winner was Joe Sailor of Vinton, VA. Playing in Division 2, first place, with a net score of 72, was decided on matching score cards with second place winner Pete Akers. Third place went to Jim Wright with a 73, while 4th place, Bob Poff and 5th place Richard Smith were decided by matching score cards with a 74. Joe Sailor was also the gross winner in division 2 with a score of 85.

In Division 1, the winner, with a net score of 73, was Sherwood Woodford.

2nd place, Tom Adams, 3rd place, Skip Mitchell, 4th place, Woody Deans, and 5th place John Hubbard were all decided by matching score cards, all having net scores of 74. The low gross score was 77

by John Hubbard.

1st Honor Roll 6th Grade Urmila Bharathan Forrest Boyd Nicole Chaney Anna Cooper Paxton Helmer Ben Kennedy Christopher Pollock 7th Grade Wes Bonelli Ragan Comer Robert Elder Shariq Hashmi Mac McNally Morgan Robison Dana Thompson 8th Grade Madeleine Dick Sarah Kate Holley Mary Stuart King Laura Lemon Tyler Lemon Paul McNeil Lara Min Adrienne Wynd 2nd Honor Roll 6th Grade Matthew Algino Carrie Bailey Harrison Call George Cartledge Morgan Clark John Clarke Kyle Curtis Evan Elwell Matthew Erath Kirby Evett Ryan Hunt Ann Ickes Eesha Imam

Mehreen Imam Nishant Jha Rosalie List Madison Macher Sidney Murray Blair Thurman Spencer Titzmann Zach Williamson 7th Grade Sarah Algino Madison Altice Emily Chandel Scott Clower Kim DeGidio Will Fralin India Helmer Zach Hollander Hazel Lindahl Alexis Long Lizzie McIvor Meagan Mulhauser Alex Roe Anna Sawyer Dalila Softic Laura Warren 8th Grade Ben Batzel Chris Carter Miranda Clarke Maddie Kennedy Sam Lawrence Caroline Magee Karli Mangold Alexandra Martin Tim Putnam Julia Sherertz Alex Strain Christine Wadstrom Connor Walters Alex Worthy Rachael Wright

Upper School Honor Rolls Winter Trimester 2008 1st Honor Roll 9th Grade Emily Armentrout Galen Harrison Hallie Martin Lauren Oddo Reagan Robey Stephanie Till

10th Grade Tyler Caveness Alex Chandel Andrew Floyd Will Frye Sarah Jessee Mary McConaughy Benjamin Weiserbs

10th Grade Aamir Imam Kaya Patel Caitlin Verdu

11th Grade Alex Cecil Grace Copplestone Patrick DelBuono Derek Fisher Claiborne Fletcher Davis Frith Edward Gracia Scotty Groth Farrell Irons Claire Johnson Olivia Langhorn Arthur Latsch Ted Robison Ga Yeong Seo Glenn Williams James Willis Erin Wynd

11th Grade Merritt Boyd 12th Grade Katya Brozyna Jane Gay Erica Gotow Daniel Inman II Caroline Ludwig 2nd Honor Roll 9th Grade Janagan Bharathan Emily Boyd Fuller Clark Devon Goodrich Andrew Gotow Yezid Gracia Zaahir Imam Catherine Jessee Tyler Lystash Catherine Merritt Christopher Moore Morgan Moskal Marie Nganele Maggie Perrin-Key Amy Putnam David Quinn Nicholas Rehmus Ansel Steele Elizabeth Stoeckle Shannon Toole Jonathan Turner Christopher Waldrop Matthew Watson Hatcher Worthy

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12th Grade Brian Burke Alice Cennamo Joseph Choe Stephanie Crawford Joey Curran Teri Edwards Joshua Giltz Hannah Greenberg Ashley Hunt Sara Inge Laura Johnson Erika Martin Anna Mathew Mark Meyer Nani Moskal Matthew Naparstek Sheel Patel Kendall Patterson Brian Roach Landon Shaff Lauren Stellato Seely Stephenson Ashley Turner

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Hoda Kotb, “Dateline NBC” correspondent and co-anchor of NBC’s “Today” show, will address Virginia Tech’s Class of 2008 during University Commencement exercises Friday, May 9, at Lane Stadium/Worsham Field.

The University Commencement ceremony will begin at 11 a.m.

“We are extremely pleased that Hoda Kotb will deliver this year’s university commencement address,” said Virginia Tech President Charles W. Steger. “Her distinguished career as a broadcast journalist, and her many professional accomplishments will certainly inspire our graduates.”

A graduate of Virginia Tech’s communications program in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, Kotb recently visited Virginia Tech when she served as master of ceremonies at “The Campaign for Virginia Tech: Invent the Future” kickoff event last October.

Kotb was named co-anchor of the fourth hour of “Today” in August 2007. She has been a “Dateline NBC” correspondent since April 1998 and the host of the weekly syndicated series “Your Total Health” since September 2004.

In her nine years at NBC, Kotb has covered a variety of domestic and international stories. Most recently, she covered the aftermath and one-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. In addition, she has reported on the war in Iraq, the conflict between the

Israelis and Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza, and the War on Terror in Afghanistan.

In 2004, Kotb traveled to Southeast Asia to cover the devastating effects of the tsunami. She also co-anchored an MSNBC special on race, “Shades of Hope...Shadows of Hate,” which was reported from Birmingham, Ala. at the former site of a Klan bombing.

Kotb has received numerous awards, including the 2008 Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Award and the prestigious Peabody in 2006 for her “Dateline NBC” report “The Education of Ms. Groves.” The four-time Emmy nominee also won the 2004 Headliner Award, 2003 Gracie Award and the 2002 Edward R. Murrow Award.

Previously, Kotb worked at WWL-TV, the CBS affiliate in New Orleans, La., where she served as an anchor and reporter for the 10 p.m. news broadcast from 1992 to 1998. She was a weekend anchor and reporter for WINK-TV in Fort Myers, Fla., from 1989 to 1991. Prior to that, Kotb was a morning anchor and general assignment reporter for WQAD-TV, the ABC affiliate in Moline, Ill., and an anchor for WXVT-TV, the CBS affiliate in Greenville S.C.

Students and mentors honored at Roanoke City Public Schools Honors Dinner William Fleming High School

Chacko, Michael Sunny Cotton, Carmen Shakia Creel, Heather Elizabeth Dinh, Anna Tran Dinh, Margaret Tran Dooley, Justyn Alan Oliver Hairfield, Kathleen Sara Hannah, Emily Virginia Jordan, Tiffany Renee Krawczyk, Andrew Mahan Pham, Diana Dinh Reynolds, Quaneisha Althea Sanchez-Jones, Cristina Alexandra Saunders, Sameria Alexis Sullivan, Salena Marie

Patrick Henry High School

Barrows, William Shipley Day, Robert Sunderland Dayton, Taylor Leigh Kilgus, Matthew David

Roanoke City Public Schools Scholars’ Mentors Michael Andrews Ben Bazak Cindy Bohland Cynthia Brown Leslie Cleveland Chad Cox

Lisa Dennis Nicole Doherty Christopher Dowdy Scott Dreyer Lisa Evans Pierre Fassie Mary Jo Fassie Aaron Haigler Linda Hanks Cindy Hill Jeff Hollandsworth Brent Holt Bob Iseminger James Earl Jones Sindi Jones Becky Kilgus Kay M. McGrath Al Meggars

Bert Milburn Fletcher Nichols Jackie O’Neill Cyrus Pace Melissa Poff Amy Pugh Keith Smith Wanda Spraggins Sherry Trogden Ginger Weckstein Vicki Wert Wade Whitehead Josh Wilkinson Dennis Workm Some who received honors are not listed due to unsigned or incomplete media release forms.

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Project faith teams with Rescue Mission again

Students at Faith Christian School in southwest Roanoke County spent time sprucing up the Roanoke Rescue Mission during their “Project Faith” fundraiser for the school last spring. This year they’ll head back to the mission on April 25 – sort of – by working at Jubilee Acres, the outdoor camp in western Roanoke County that’s designed for the children staying at the Rescue Mission.

Children, women with children (at the new women’s shelter) and even intact families make up a larger percentage of those without homes than in previous years, and the Roanoke Rescue Mission in southwest Roanoke – maligned by City Councilman Bev Fitzpatrick as perhaps “too daggone nice,” several months ago – is often the safety net when all else fails.

It’s a far cry from the family situations for most Faith Christian students, whose families pay about $7000 a year for the privilege of attending the private school, now completing

its first term at the new Buck Mountain Road campus off U.S. 221. Jubilee Acres features a 13station challenge course, walking trails, a lodge and the “Jericho Wall”, which teaches about teamwork and trust as children help each other up and over a wooden climbing wall. “A lot of group activities in a safe environment,” said Susan Childs, a development officer for Faith Christian, which draws students from all over the Roanoke Valley. Local companies are donating 15 dump truckloads of mulch that will be spread out at the camp.

Faith Christian students approach parents and local businesses, asking for pledges of money in return for the community service they provide. In the past students from all grades at the K-12 private school spent five years working on greenways and trails in Roanoke City, on Mill Mountain or elsewhere.

The school is working with Rescue Mission Executive Director Joy Syl-

vester-Johnson and Development Director Lee Clark on the project at Jubilee Acres, which is also rented out as a church retreat during the year.

This year’s goal is to raise $120,000 for the school after Faith students helped bring in $115,000 last spring. “We’re trying to grow that,” said Childs of an amount that seems “insurmountable” when they begin to ask for donations. Among the expenses earmarked for the money raised:” we need to hire more teachers.” Project Faith has accounted for more than 77,000 hours of community service in the last six years, according to Childs, after beginning as a walk-a-thon. “We [needed] to do something productive… something tangible.”

Working on trails previously or painting walls and landscaping at the Rescue Mission last year has given Faith Christian youngsters more satisfaction notes Childs – beats walking around in circles. Besides, what kid doesn’t like to get “dirty and

Faith Christian students during a previous year’s project on a Roanoke greenway. sweaty,” like Childs said they did last year? There’s always a celebration afterwards and Rescue Mission officers will address the group during the April 25th

event. Childs is confident the $120,000 goal will be reached.

“It’s a miracle, really. You see all these [small] checks.” Apparently, you just have to have Faith.

(contact Faith Christian School to inquire about contributing to Project Faith, 769-5200)

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Friday, April 4th will be opening night for the Virginia Western Theatre production of Spoon River Anthology, written by Edgar Lee Masters and adapted by Virginia Western instructor Ted Mills.

In 1915, a book of poetry was published that shattered the way most Americans viewed smalltown life. Written in the form of monologues and in a free verse that captured everyday speech, Masters’ poems raised the dead in a Midwestern cemetery to speak the truth about their lives. This fictitious village (Spoon River) and its deceased cast of characters were all too reminiscent of actual residents of two Illinois villages where Masters had been reared -- close enough that

he was never welcomed home again. With lyrical drama and ironic humor, Masters makes room for all the voices of small town life. He offers us a portrait of humanity that has already been deemed a classic.

There will be five performances of Spoon River Anthology in Whitman Auditorium on the Virginia Western Community College campus: April 4, 5, 11, 12, and 13. All performances will be at 8 PM except the matinee on Sunday, April 13th, which will be at 2 PM. Whitman Auditorium is located at the corner of Colonial Avenue and McNeil Road. The production is offered free of charge to the public, but donations are welcomed at the door.

North Cross’ Online Auction The Mosaic Online Auction, featuring nearly 100 items, including artwork created by students in every grade level at North Cross School, will open for bidding on Fri., March 28 at 8 a.m. at www.northcross. cmarket.com. Proceeds from the auction help provide financial assistance for deserving students.

Student artwork included in the auction will be on display in the Hancock Library, located on campus, in Slack Hall for the duration of the auction. A computer will be available on site for anyone interested in making a bid online.

The auction will close on April 11 at 8 p.m. Winners will

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be announced online immediately following the auction.

Items will be available for pickup on April 14, 15, and 16, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. in the Development Office workroom in Slack Hall, or by appointment as needed.

The event is being sponsored by, Eggleston & Eggleston, Ziiva, The Cobbler’s Wife, Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Algino, Kevin Hurley Photography and Valley Printers.

North Cross School parent Susan Card is chairing the auction and would like to extend her sincere thanks to the following parents/faculty for helping coordinate the event: Marty Call, Patricia Eggleston, Elizabeth Erath, Karen Fralin, Deb Haggerty, Tracy Helmer, Elaine Stephenson, and Susanna Quinn.

For more information, please contact Laura L. Neff-Henderson at 540-989-6641, ext. 259 or lhenderson@northcross.org.

Roanoke County Public Schools in Roanoke, Va., has been named a first place winner in the American School Board Journal’s 14th annual Magna Awards program.

The district was honored in the 5,000 to 20,000 enrollment category for its engineering specialty center. Opened in 2001 at the district’s Arnold R. Burton Technology Center, the center helps students develop technical skills while still in high school.

While students are enrolled, they take part in internships with local companies including the Carilion Biomedical Institute, General Electric, and Plastics One. The Magna Awards recognize districts across the country for outstanding programs that advance student learning and encourage community involvement in schools. This year’s three grand prize, 15 first place, and 15 honorable mention winners were selected based on three enrollment categories: less than 5,000 students, 5,000 to 20,000, and 20,000 and above.

“For more than a decade, the Magna Awards have showcased innovation and bold steps taken by school districts every day to address the many challenges facing public education,” said Marilee Rist, ASBJ’s publisher and assistant executive director of the National School Boards Association (NSBA). “This year’s entries reflect the hard work of school boards, superintendents, and staff who strive to meet changing community needs in creative and innovative ways.”

Lorna Donatone, president of Sodexho School Services, said, “The Magna Awards are a special honor because they celebrate partnerships that challenge traditional approaches and conventional thinking in education. This year’s winners are an inspiration to others because they illustrate how school boards and communities can advance student learning through innovation and perseverance.”

American School Board Journal initiated the Magna Awards

in 1995 to recognize school boards for taking bold and innovative steps to improve their educational programs. An independent panel of school board members, administrators, and other educators selected this year’s winners and honorable mention districts from more than 250 submissions. This year’s applicants came from 40 states; districts in 21 states were winners or honorable mention recipients.

The 2008 winners are highlighted in a special supplement to the April issue of ASBJ and will be formally recognized on Monday, March 31, at the School Leaders Luncheon at Peabody Orlando Hotel in Orlando, Fla. The luncheon is part of NSBA’s 68th annual conference scheduled for March 29-April 1 in Orlando.

American School Board Journal (www.asbj.com) is the awardwinning, editorially independent education magazine of NSBA. Founded in 1891, ASBJ covers a broad range of topics pertinent to school governance and management, policy making, student achievement, and the art of school leadership. In addition, regular departments cover education news and trends, school law, research, communications, facilities, and technology.

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3/28/08 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 9

Spring chores for the yard and garden as the season sets in TheRoanokeStar.com

We are still having some cold weather, but it is sprinkled with days that are perfect for getting a jump on gardening. Don’t forget your sunscreen, though. Our skin is ill prepared for a big dose of sunlight after being inside most of the winter.

Now is a good time to turn and water your compost. It is also time to do soil tests and begin preparation of the vegetable garden soil. Soil tests can be picked up at any of the valley public libraries or the Extension office, and are sent directly to Virginia Tech.

If you had a cover crop on the garden over the winter months, it is important to turn it now before we get regular rains that will make tilling or turning the soil impossible. Soil should never be worked when it is overly wet. You can ruin the structure of soil for years. Always wait until the water has drained enough that the soil is crumbly, even if damp. Once you have worked the cover crop or amendments in, it is time to let it sit and compost a bit before you begin your planting. When to plant varies by crop, but as a general rule it is likely during April and May. Once the early prep of the vegetable garden is completed you will find most other garden chores are in the ornamental garden.

Any grasses or liriope should be cut back before new growth begins, even if they are evergreen. The same holds true for some of the groundcovers, like hypericum, that do best with an annual rejuvenation. If you have ivy, vinca, or pachysandra that have gotten out of hand, or need rejuvenating, now is the time to cut them back, too. I find that sharpened hedge shears are good tools for

this task, especially if the area is not large. You may use a mower or string trimmer for expedience, but those tools do not make a clean cut, creating a greater risk of disease establishment. If you are rejuvenating because disease has been present it is important to sterilize the tool with alcohol afterwards. Cut the groundcover down to just a few inches of growth and rake out all of the leaves and debris, turning that into the compost pile if insects and disease are not present. The plants will benefit from the increased air circulation. Do not fertilize until the weather warms more and new growth is very active. (Usually late April or May.) Perennials like daylilies, hostas, and others should have dead foliage gently pulled or raked off. If you find yourself having to tug hard it is better to use shears so you do not dislodge the crowns. Stalkier perennials like peonies, phlox, shastas, and others should always be cut as close to the ground as possible and the debris removed. You may find some have growth emerging at the base already. Try not to damage that. Wear gloves. There are many soil borne pathogens, as well as overwintering insects that may inflict a painful or dangerous bite.

Now is a good time to set plant supports. When you can see the crown of the plant without a cover of foliage you can easily place stakes where they will not damage the roots. This also makes it easier to identify spaces where you may wish to place new plants, or to avoid crowns if replenishing mulch.

Frost heaving may have made it necessary to reset stones or

edging. Consider whether a pathway or plant be moved completely. You can begin to transplant things as necessary. Be on the lookout for areas of heavy run-off or erosion that may need remediation.

After you have finished cleaning out the beds, you will have a better feel for where you might need more color, texture, height variation, added interest, or extended bloom.

If your trees and shrubs are still fully dormant, you have a little time left to get a dormant oil spray on to smother insects. If your buds are beginning to swell, however, you must use the summer dilution rate. You still have time to prune many trees and shrubs.

Some species are best left until summer. The Extension office can provide more information on pruning at 776-7178.

Barbara Leach Horticulture technician

What grass should I grow for my lawn?

Virginia is what turfgrass managers describe as a “transition zone�. What it means to you and your lawn is that our cold winters and hot, dry summers don’t allow for easy choices in lawn grasses for most of our state. Following the drought of 2007 (and the disconcerting forecast for continued suboptimal rainfall in 2008) there are lots of lawns that need work this spring and we might have more problems ahead this summer. This article considers the strengths and weaknesses of the major turfgrasses that can be managed as lawn grasses across Virginia, where they are best adapted, and how their use fits into lawn management programs that deliver quality, aesthetically pleasing turf in an environmentally friendly approach.

Cool-season turfgrasses.

These grasses prefer temperatures of 60-75 o F and have active growing periods in the late summer to early winter, and early spring to early summer. Their growth rates in mid-summer drop sharply as they encounter the typical high temperatures and possible drought of the summer season.

These grasses are best adapted to the hill and valley regions of Southwest Virginia. Spring establishments are possible, but fall is the preferred time for planting.

Tall fescue. This is the best adapted turfgrass used as a lawn grass across the state. There are over 100 cultivars of ‘turf-type’ fescues (those selected for finer leaf texture and higher plant density) currently available. It is noted for having the deepest root system of the cool-season grasses, allowing it to avoid drought be using water it finds deeper in the soil profile. Tall

fescue seed germinates quickly (10-14 days) and is readily available as sod around the state. It performs best in full sun to moderate shade, is tolerant of a wide range of physical and chemical soil conditions, and performs best at cutting heights of 2-3 inches.

It is managed as a bunch (clump) grass although some of the latest cultivars are touted for their rhizomatous (below-ground stems) growth habit. Tall fescue is a good choice for low to moderate maintenance lawns, responding to annual nitrogen (N) fertility levels of 2 to 4 lbs/1000 sq ft/year.

Kentucky bluegrass.

The dark green color and fine to medium leaf blades of the vast number of cultivars of this grass provide some of the prettiest lawns in the region. It is a full-sun turfgrass that if selected, indicates a commitment by the homeowner to a moderate to high maintenance lawn.

Bluegrass responds to fertility levels of 3 to 4 lbs of N/1000 sq ft/year and if under-fertilized, tends to get many of the nuisance turf diseases of dollar spot, red thread, and rust. This grass has an aggressive creeping growth habit from rhizomes and can produce a significant thatch layer over years of aggressive management. Seed is readily available, but it is slow to germinate (14-21 days) and complete establishment usually takes months, making spring plantings much less successful than those of early fall.

Kentucky bluegrass is usually maintained between a 1.5 to 2.5 inch cutting height and will enter dormancy under extreme drought in order to survive.

Fine-leaf fescues.

This group of extremely fine-bladed grasses are some of the most

under-utilized grasses in the state, being well adapted to the Valley and Ridge and northern Piedmont regions. People either love or hate fine fescues because of their needle-like leaf texture. However, these grasses (broken down into species such as creeping red, hard, or chewing fescues) provide some of the highest quality, low maintenance cool-season turf possible. They are ideal for low maintenance lawns where minimal fertility and fewer mowing events are desired, but fine fescues have poor traffic tolerance, so be wary of using them if your lawn will have lots of use from kids or pets. The fine fescues have the best shade tolerance of the cool-season turfgrasses and are very persistent in dry conditions and somewhat poor soils. They generally do not fare well in persistently wet soils and their quality will decline if over fertilized (only 1 to 2 lbs N/1000 sq ft/year is recommended). Seed is readily available but there are not nearly as many choices in cultivars as for other species. Fine fescue seed germinates pretty quickly (10-14 days) but is a somewhat slow establisher, so fall seedings are best. It thrives under mowing heights of 1.5 to 2.5 inches, but is often used in the mountains as ‘no mow’ turf for areas too steep to mow.

Perennial ryegrass.

This grass fell out of favor for home lawn use in the 1990s when gray leaf spot disease ravaged many ryegrass cultivars on the east coast. However, turf breeders have since selected for greatly improved resistance to gray leaf spot and perennial ryegrass has returned to a place of prominence in Virginia’s cooler climates. Perennial ryegrass is a bunch-type grass

Discovery

Shop in (PTQFM &YQMPTJPO Need The Discovery Shop at Townside Festival, which raises money through the sale of goods for the American Cancer Society, has been hit hard staff-wise due to a variety of difficult circumstances within our volunteer family, saaid manager Amy Peck, “we are currently in desperate need for qualified volunteers who are willing to take on key volunteer duties. We need people who are willing to work a regular schedule, at least one day per month.

Key needs at the moment are: Mondays 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM; Tuesdays 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM; Thursdays 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM; Fridays 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM; Saturdays 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The Discovery shop offers full training for volunteers and accepts women and men. Contact Amy Peck, Roanoke Discovery Shop Manager, 3723-B Franklin Road. Next to Montano’s in Townside Festival, 540-345-2572

best suited for use in full sun to moderately shaded lawns at elevations above 1500 feet. It is one of the fastest germinating grasses from seed (7-10 days) and also one of the fastest to establish a dense canopy.

Mature perennial ryegrass has excellent wear tolerance but it is not very heat and drought tolerant, and can have significant disease pressure in warmer climates. It tolerates some of the lowest mowing heights possible (1 to 2.5 inch recommended cutting height) and is noted for its striping potential when mowed. Ryegrass responds to 2 to 4 lbs N/1000 sq ft/year, with higher rates being used when it is mixed with Kentucky bluegrass at 80-90% ryegrass by seed weight.

Where can I get more information? Your local Virginia Cooperative Extension office can assist you in selecting varieties of these grasses that best fit your needs. The Virginia Turfgrass Variety Recommendation list and list of Virginia sod producers can be found under the lawn and landscape link at the VCE website, www. ext.vt.edu� www.ext.vt.edu/.

Mike Goatley, Jr., Extension Turfgrass Specialist, Virginia Tech

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Page 10 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 3/28/08

March 28 Mosaic Online Auction Fundraiser Kicks off The Mosaic Online Auction, featuring nearly 100 items, including artwork created by students in every grade level at North Cross School, will open for bidding on Fri., March 28 at 8 a.m. at www.northcross.cmarket.com.

Proceeds from the auction help provide financial assistance for deserving students.

When- Starts at 8 a.m. - April 11 8 p.m.

Where- www.northcross.cmarket.com For more- 540-989-6641, ext. 259

> March 29 Planting Trees On the Parkway Join FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway at the N&W Railroad Overlook, milepost 106.9, to plant 250 seedlings. FRIENDS plants trees to preserve the views of America’s Favorite Scenic Drive – the Blue Ridge Parkway. Refreshments, live music, children’s art project, and seed packets to youth volunteers. Register at the site at 8:30. Bring a bag lunch and listen to bluegrass music as you watch your seedlings grow!

> Autos 1997 Lexus ES300 $4,950. Call for details 537-6166. > Real Estate BEST BUY Hotlist reveals 10 best buys in your price range. Recorded message 1-800-490-5075 ID#5040 DISTRESS SALE - BANK FORECLOSURES Free computerized list of Foreclosure properties Recorded message 1-800-490-5075 ID#5042 www.depaulfamilyservices.org FIRST TIME BUYERS - Why continue renting? Free list of homes available with nothing down, under $650/month Recorded message 1-800-490-5075 ID#5051

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When- Register at site at 8:30 a.m.

Where- Blue RIdge Parkway, Milepost 106.9 For more- 540-772-2992 or visit the website to register for the event: www.BlueRidgeFRIENDS.org

> April 3 Kaleidoscope 2008,Art Sale Benefit A unique opportunity to purchase art created by more than 100 professional artists and area students. Patrons will also again be treated to an exhibition by 4 live artists: Judy Bates, Judith R Damon, Marie Gobble Levine, and Kay Sutherland. These artists will rotate among 4 large canvasses. Following the rotation, the cooperative artistic creations will be auctioned off to benefit the CASA program.The art event Kaleidoscope 2008 will include music, great food by Outback Restaurant, beer, wine and soft drinks.

When- 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Where- Fitzpatrick Hall, Jefferson Center For more- 540-853-2407, or www.roanokevalleycasa.org.

> Haiku ads Belize vacation deliver school supplies do a good deed cheap contact Gary at 342-2083 turtle-guy@att.net Art Lessons private art lessons drawing ,painting and sculpture ages 6 and up call Katherine Devine 427-5919 devinestudios@yahoo.com Want to learn Chinese?

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Call Deborah, 776-3087 Tutor Does your grade school child Need a teacher-tutor to Help them stay on track?

Call Emily 725-1464 emilym@cox.net Crafts Homemade crafts and such, Children’s aprons, quillows, gifts.

Shop “Buy the Season”.

Emily,Vendor 1806, 725-1464, emilym@cox.net FREE!!!!

We’ll run any ad from a private party written in traditional Haiku form (5,7,5 syllabic format).

Telephone number at the end of the listing is excluded from the format requirements. Email info@ theroanokestar.com

or relative!

When- 6:45 p.m. (sharp) – 7:45 p.m.

Where- Edinburgh Square’s Community Room, 129 Hershberger Road NW, near Plantation Road, directly across from Star City Skating Center.

Cost- Free For more- RAFT@att.net, www.RoanokeAreaFairTax.com

FairTax Educational Meeting Roanoke Area FairTax will have a 30-minute presentation, “The FairTax: Benefits to Seniors”, followed by 30 minutes of questions, answers, and discussion. Come learn the principles of the FairTax and understand how it would be good for America. Bring a friend

2008 Employee Talent Show The Roanoke City’s 2008 employee talent show includes 15 acts ranging from belly dancing to stand up comedy, impersonations to singing. City employees will take the stage to compete for cash prizes

vides information to subscribers, providers, and group administrators regarding their dental benefits. Resolves claim problems, writes up corrections, and watches for claim adjudication of the adjustment. Returns calls to the providers and subscribers. A minimum of one year prior customer service experience.

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Perform a variety of tasks relating to support of the Underwriting Department goals and objectives. Perform analysis of dental claims, enrollment, and benefit information to determine costs factors for use in underwriting process. Assist in retrieval and compilation of group specific data to support department’s customer reporting requirements.Assist in preparation of annual revenue and claim forecasts. Four-year college degree in finance, mathematics, economics, or related field.

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> April 4

Wildflower Walk Wildflower Society -- Lapsley Run Field Trip - Meet at 9:00 am at Botetourt Commons next to Bojangles off US 220 north of Daleville. Bring lunch. This area offers some of the best early spring flowers plus a beautiful waterfall. Little walking required.

When- 9 a.m.

For moreButch Kelly (540)384-7429.

and the title of 2008 Most Talented City Employee. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for anyone with a student I.D., and are available at the Parks and Recreation Office located at 210 Reserve Ave. S.W When- 7 p.m Where- Roanoke Civic Center Performing Arts Theatre For more- Josh Mabrey, Talent Show Chair, at 853-6827.

> April 5

museums and artists in their production of TIES. A collage of film, music, and dance, audiences will be delighted as dancers ride the rails of railroad history with a vision of the past, present and future in this highly expressive ballet When- April 5 7p.m. & April 6 3p.m.

Where- The Jefferson Center Cost- $30 Adults $17 18 and under For more- Call (540)345-2550 or www.jeffcenter.org

Annual Big Flea Event This enormous “yard sale” has been held for more than 30 years, and is comprised of clothing and household goods donated to North Cross School by families, friends, and area businesses.All unsold items are donated to local charities at the conclusion of the event.

When- 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Where- North Cross School For more- 540-989-6641 ext. 271

Guest Speaker Patrick Henry Hughes Patrick Henry Hughes, as featured on ABC’s Extreme Makeover, will speak at Faith Christian Church about his experience.

When- Sun. 9:30 & 11 a.m Sat. 6 p.m.

Where- Faith Christian Church 226 Red Lane Ext Salem,VA 24153 Cost- Free of Charge For more: (540) 387-3200

> April 5-6

Have an item for the calendar? email it to submissions@ theroanokestar.com

Southwest Virginia Ballet Southwest Virginia Ballet is very proud to participate in an unprecedented collaboration with local

cLAssiFieDs & JOBZcAFe.cOM > JobzCafe.com

Jobzcafe is a progressive career destination connecting local companies with a dynamic talent pool. We serve Southwest and Central Virginia including Roanoke, Lynchburg, New River Valley, Martinsville, Danville and Smith Mountain Lake.

For Information Contact: 540-563-2249 Caring Foster & Adoptive Parents Needed Big hearts and happy homes needed for children and teens w/ special needs. Receive quality training + casework services + financial support. Non-profit agency will match child or teen with “Overcoming Challenges & your family. Be a Building Brighter Futures” turning point in someone’s life. Training sessions beginning soon. For more information, call the following offices: Roanoke 540-265-8923.

Foster Parents are Special People!

Chest LANE Oak cedar lined foot chest After School Program Coordinator give18” hopehigh) EC Whether you are an $125.00● Foster (45” parents long X Part time position individual with potential ● Foster parents provide a safe haven or a couple,for 977-2977 or 598-8207 ● Foster parents nurture growth and self-esteemfull time; assist with withplanning, or without children, super● Foster parents teach children that they are worthy to be loved you can become a foster vising and managing all aspects of parent and impact a young Motorcycle Windsheild DePaul recognizes the contribution foster parentsPresbyterian make to the next Community Center’s person’s life now, and far Honda generation windshield $150, on 1982 Sil-foster parents with: of adults and DePaul supports the future.

There are comprehensive afterintoschool program, Friendly thorough training verwing,● also forandsale342-2083 a lot of children who need ● 24 hours a day / 7 days a week assistance and guidance Pathways for Youth.you.This Pleaseposition call today. is ● Experienced social workers with small case loads responsible for direct supervision of Travel ● Recreational activities ● Financial support Join a group to Belize this summer- the middle school group comprising 18-20 youth. Requirements: only $35. 342-2083 Call us in Roanoke at 540.265.8923about or in Christiansburg at 540.381.1848 any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s Cool Cheap Stuff Place your ad in Cool Cheap Stuff, degree in human services, counseling, for items costing $150 or less, free! education, childhood development or Ads are published for 1 week. If item related field. Two to three years exdoesn’t sell feel free to run it again! perience working with at-risk youth Cool Cheap Stuff is available to pri- preferred. Send resume to: Presbyvate individuals who advertise one terian Community Center, 1228 Jaitem costing $150 or less. Cost of mison Avenue, Roanoke, VA 24013 item and telephone number must and/or call 540-982-2911 and speak appear in ad copy. First 10 words are to Tom MacMichael (submit via email: free. Additional 10 words are $5.00. pathways@pccse.org.)

Some restrictions apply. Limit 8 Cool, Cheap Stuff ads per month!

Thursday Morning Music Club April Meeting The program,“A Voyage East across Europe”, will be a concert with piano and two horns. There is no charge for the program and non-members are welcomed to attend.The musicians are Tracy Cowden, pianist and assistant professor of Piano and Vocal Coach in the Music Department at Virginia Tech,Wallace Easter, principal horn player with the Roanoke Symphony and professor in the Music Department at Virginia Tech, and Abigail Pack, second horn player with the Roanoke Symphony and associate professor of horn at James Madison University.

When- 10:30 a.m.

Where- Thrasher United Methodist Church,Vinton,VA For more- Judy Barger, (540)-563-4782

TheRoanokeStar.com

Accountant Representative, Sales Representative, Store Keeper, Clerk and Secretary Requirement (Computer Literate, Along With CV.) for more informarion write us below: Gina Shoes Limited EMail: gina.limited@gmail.com Senior Computer Engineer Candidates must possess strong leadership skills and outstanding technical skills. Responsibilities include ability to resolve complex technical issues, design computer hardware, design and test computer systems, and impact product roadmap strategy. Expertise required in Microsoft operating systems and applications. Unix experience a plus. Excellent communication and customer service skills, innovative thinking, and the ability to manage competing demands. Position requires a B.S. in Computer Engineering or other engineering discipline with an emphasis on Computer Technology and at least 3 years of experience in a manufacturing or technology field.

Masters degree and technical certifications preferred.

CCS-Inc. 540-382-4234 hr@ccs-inc. com Software Developer Position is responsible for the full lifecycle development of all internally developed reports and applications, administration of CRM and ERP systems, and administration of our internal and external facing websites. Ideal candidates will have 3+ years experience developing database driven web applications and reports, XML, ASP, HTML, JavaScript, IIS 5 and IIS 6.

Computer Science or related degree preferred; knowledge of Microsoft SharePoint a plus.

CCS-Inc. 540-382-4234 HYPERLINK “mailto:hr@ccs-inc.com” hr@ ccs-inc.com Call Center Representative Receives telephone inquires and pro-

Engineer 2 - Fire Protection Design of fire suppression systems.

Design of fire alarm systems. Design of stairwell pressurization and smoke control systems. Building and life safety code analysis.

Multi-discipline design support and project coordination for fire protection related items.

Professional licensure when eligible.

B.S. in Fire Protection Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field. Good oral and written communication skills. Good computer skills.

HSMM 540-857-3100 Customer Service Representative Fincastle manufacturer seeking candidates with strong multitasking skills.

Duties will include handling inbound calls and building/maintaining customer relationships. Associate must be willing to learn product line and pricing. Other duties will include order entry; assisting with production and shipping scheduling; preparing invoicing and performing other general accounting duties. Candidates must have a minimum of two years experience in a busy office setting and be proficient with Word and Excel. Pay based on experience.

Express Personnel 540-389-8978 Engineer 2 – Traffic Traffic Engineering technical design for the preparation of traffic impact analyses, signal design, traffic modeling, and equipment specification. Oversight of junior engineers in the preparation of the above tasks. Management of projects. Bachelor of Science degree in Civil engineering.

8 years of experience in traffic engineering design with experience working with VDOT and municipal clients.

HSMM 540-857-3100 Medical Receptionist Do you thrive in a fast paced environment? Expanding medical office needs additional receptionist! Candidate must possess strong customer service skills, medical background a plus. Good computer skills a musttesting required. Duties will include answering telephones, scheduling appointments, data entry, filing and other general clerical duties. Very busy environment; must be able to handle stress well. Must be available to work from 7:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. during the weekdays (schedule will rotate) and 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. on Saturdays (schedule will rotate). Evaluation to hire.

Express Personnel 540-389-8978 Sales Rep New and Pre-Owned Vehicle Sales.

High income potential with established dealership with great reputation in the Roanoke Salem area. Income ranges with current staff range from $45000 to over $100000 Pinkerton Chevrolet - 540-562-1337 - smcdaniel@pinkertonchevy.com Engineer 2 - Highway Design and preparation of plans for roadway and site/civil projects. Geometric layout and drainage for roadway projects. Bachelor of Science degree in Civil engineering. 8 years of experience in highway design with experience working with VDOT and municipal clients.

HSMM 540-857-3100 Underwriting Business Analyst Delta Dental of Virginia is looking

Registration Specialist Immediate opening for individual who is very detail oriented and thrives in a fast paced environment. Must be computer literate and familiar with Word, Excel and Outlook. There is no phone work required, but candidates must be open to working with patients face to face. Previous medical office experience and insurance knowledge strongly preferred. Hours are 7:30am-5:00pm M-F with rotating Saturdays. Pay will be $10/hr.

Express Personnel 540-389-8978 Engineer 1 - Site/Civil

LABORER $8.74 per hour Duties include: • General facility repair • Clean & paint apartment units • Lawn maintenance • Grounds care Skills Required: • 6 months experience in lawn care and/or maintenance work • Knowledge of grounds/landscape tools and equipment • Ability to perform manual labor for extended periods of time in adverse weather conditions • Ability to carry out oral and written communications VALID VA DRIVERS LICENSE A MUST APPLY THROUGH MARCH 25, 2008

Design site plans, utilities, storm water management, erosion and sediment control plans under the close supervision of an experienced engineer. B.S. in Civil Engineering, accredited program. 3 years minimum experience.

HSMM 540-857-3100

date must be familiar with Structural Engineering principles and AutoCAD. Person will be converting drawings from architects/builders to reflect using their products. Working remotely may be an option.

Express Personnel 540-389-8978

Computer Design Engineer Position is responsible for understanding customer requirements and designing computer solutions to meet those requirements. Design engineer also manages the evaluation of new products and new components and acts as a pre-sales technical resource to help customers understand their options for industrial computing solutions. Engineer works closely with Purchasing to assist in vendor selection and vendor relationships, qualifies new vendors and new products, and assists Sales and Marketing to design new product offerings based on market research and market demand.

CCS-Inc. 540-382-4234

Engineer 1- Mechanical Prepare basic deliverables and products such as presentation materials, calculations, drawings, specifications, cost estimates related to heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. AutoCAD and/or MicroStation drafting experience. B.S. in an accredited engineering program.

HSMM 540-857-3100

Customer Service P/T Much more than just customer service! Busy call center environment.

Good phone voice a must. Individual must be dedicated to learning the business. Will be put through a week long training period with homework and tests.Will be talking with doctors and people associated with the medical industry. Basic computer skills and good data entry scores required; will be tested. Flexible hours up to 35 hours/week. Must work 1-2 evenings a week until 7:00 pm. $11/hr.

Express Personnel 540-389-8978 Computer Technicians CCS-Inc. is looking for Full-time and Part-time Computer Technicians.

These positions will be responsible for the integration and manufacturing of industrial computer systems. The ideal candidates will have a strong background in troubleshooting computer hardware (including PC’s, laptops, & components), software problems and other related issues.

Candidates should also possess excellent verbal/written communication skills. One year certificate from college or technical school; or three to six months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred.

CCS-Inc. 540-382-4234 hr@ccs-inc. com Non-Profit Fund Raising Temporary long term assignment available for local non profit organization. Hours are 9-5 M-F, 1 hr for lunch, 35 hrs/week. $9/hr. to start with potential to go to $10/hr after first week. 100% cold calling to businesses. Will be given a list and a script. Must be comfortable in a sales environment and communicate well.

Outbound calling or sales experience preferred. Must be persistent and reliable. Ability to meet goals and produce results essential. Small office environment working with 3 or 4 other people in same room. Apply now to get the satisfaction of working for a great cause! Assignment is for at least 6 weeks with the potential to go several months or even until December.

Express Personnel 540-389-8978

APPLY: • In Person: 2624 Salem Turnpike • Online: www.rkehousing.org • Fax: (540) 345-5494 • E-mail: HR@rkehousing.org • Mail: P.O. Box 6359 Roanoke, VA 24017

Web Designer/Developer Design & develop web pages.Advanced knowledge of HTML, CSS, Flash/Actionscript, Photoshop, Illustrator and CMS systems such as e107 or Joomla. All applicants must have intermediate knowledge of DOB scripting and demonstrate a working knowledge of designing for print media. A portfolio is required.

Shelor Motor Mile 540-382-2981 bshaver@shelor.com

EO E/AA Minorities and women are encouraged to apply.

Structural Engineer- Contract Position Part-time contractual position. Engineer needed for 2-3 days per week for approximately 3 months. Candi-

Maintenance Technician Experienced Maintenance Technicians needed! Technicians will be responsible for installing, maintaining and repairing machinery, equipment, physical structures, and electrical systems in plant manufacturing. Candidates must have one year certificate from college or technical school; or minimum of six months experience in a related field. Electricians license desirable. Second or third shift. Direct hire. Pay DOE. Express Personnel 540-389-8978

Police Officer Patrols assigned beat on foot, motorcycle, bicycle, in patrol car, or on horseback to control traffic, prevent crime or disturbance of peace, and arrest violators. May perform assigned work in either a uniformed or non-uniformed capacity. Associate’s degree or equivalent from two-year college or technical school with a major in social or police science desirable but not required; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

City of Roanoke HR@roanokegov. com

Administrative Assistant This position provides administrative and clerical support to sales team.

Duties will include: creating and distributing reports; preparing presentations; coordinating meetings and travel; providing customer service; and performing other duties as assigned.

Ideal candidate will have a minimum of 2 years experience in a similar role. Candidate must have advanced proficiency with Microsoft programs (testing provided). Person must have excellent communication skills and be able to interact with many different personalities.

Express Personnel 540-389-8978

Manufacturing Engineer Direct hire opportunity within the New River Valley. This position will develop and implement manufacturing processes. Other responsibilities include: enforcing a weekly schedule to meet manufacturing goals, and assisting in implementation of quality control standards. Successful candidate will be highly organized and focused on making the best product possible. B.S. degree in an engineering discipline required. Minimum of 5 years experience required.

Express Personnel 540-389-8978

Facility Engineer Direct hire opportunity with a leading Roanoke manufacturer. Ideal candidate will have a mechanical engineering background and be able to provide innovative solutions to keep plant running efficiently. First shift; however, candidate must be able to work as needed on other shifts. Pay based on experience.

Express Personnel 540-389-8978

3/28/08 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 11

TheRoanokeStar.com

PreAcHer’s cOrNer

What is the context in which you hear the story?

By Tupper Garden n the village where I served my first pastorate we had an Easter sunrise service early every Easter morning. It was held in the village cemetery atop a hill that stood at the edge of the village. Frankly, the main thing I remember about all those mornings is that I almost froze to death there among the gravestones and monuments. We gathered while it was still dark. By the time the service was concluded, the sun was just bringing its first warming rays to that place of death - a place where I had buried so many from that village, where my heart had broken with families around newly dug graves.

The Easter message, He is risen!, was a particularly stark one on those mornings, as I hurried through the cemetery toward a warm home and cup of coffee, reading the names on the stones, remembering the faces and the ones they left behind. It was hard to believe.

It still is hard to believe the Easter message and I suppose that’s why so few of us really stop to think about it; afraid that if we do, we won’t believe it, and then where will we be? As I have struggled with this doubt over the years, I have come to understand that when I separate Easter from the rest of the story of Jesus, when I ponder resurrection alone and isolated from the rest of life and faith, it is almost impossible to swallow.

I

I am always glad to see those who attend our services at Raleigh Court Presbyterian only on Easter and Christmas, but if they come only at these times and believe it all, they certainly have a great deal more faith than I have ever had. It is only when I put the story of the resurrection in the larger context of the story of Christ that it makes any sense at all to me, and becomes not just plausible, but the peg upon which I am willing to bet my life, and all of life.

What is the greater context in which you ponder God’s love given to you in Christ? Does it allow the story a chance to be heard?

Imagine trying to understand a book by reading every few chapters – or a movie by only watching every other scene. You may get the gist of the story, but what are the odds of truly understanding the author’s or director’s meaning?

If you’ve been feeling a nudge to explore the promise of Christianity and your faith more deeply, I would encourage you to start out by making an effort to consistently attend a Bible study or the church of your choice. In the end I believe you will find that the story was written for you.

Roanoke Valley Harley Davidson Celebrates it’s 25th Anniversary

1983-2008

WATCH for upcoming to commemorate this occasion!

events

Ride into Spring!!

Come ďŹ nd all your motorcycle needs...

1925 Peters Creek Rd. •

Motorcycles, Collectibles, Apparell, Jewelry, ect.

Tupper Garden is Senior Minister at Raleigh Court Presbyterian Church. For information on RCPC go to www.rcpres.org

Recipe of the Week

1925 Peters Creek Rd. • www.rvhd.co from The Happy Chef!

by Leigh Sackett Salad with Warm Brie Dressing

Open Monday - Friday 8-6 Saturd

I love when one good discovery in life comes from another good discovery! That is how I found this recipe. I gave up cheese for Lent - 46 days without my favorite food was a wonderful spiritual challenge full of self-discovery. Humbling, not because I was deprived but because I had some small realization about how fortunate I am to have so much. It has truly helped to give me a new perspective on life.

But in anticipation of ending my self imposed restriction, I went out on the Saturday before Easter and bought a wheel of Brie to scarf down on Easter Sunday.

It was yummy, but I knew immediately that if I didn’t use it up, I wouldn’t be able to resist nibbling on it everyday until it was gone. So I searched for recipes with Brie to use it up in one fell delicious swoop. The recipe I found turned out to be fabulous and far more healthy than eating straight brie for another 46 days! I hope you’ll enjoy it too!

Peters Creek Rd. • www.rvhd.com Croutons 5 slices whole wheat or multi-grain bread 2 tbs. butter 1 clove garlic

Open Monday - Friday 8-6 Saturday 8-5 • (540) Salad 1 head romaine lettuce 1 bunch watercress

Warm Brie Dressing ½ cup vegetable oil Ÿ cup chopped onion 1 tbs. minced garlic 1/3 cup tarragon vinegar 1 tbs. lemon juice 1 tbs. Dijon mustard 7 oz. Brie cheese -Remove crusts from bread, cut into cubes -Melt butter in skillet, mince garlic add to skillet and stir -Fry bread cubes in garlic butter until golden brown -Wash and dry romaine lettuce, slice into 1 ½ inch strips -Wash, dry and remove tough stems from watercress, toss with romaine -Arrange salad on individual plates -Heat oil in skillet, saute onion and garlic over medium heat, about 4 minutes -Remove from heat, add vinegar, lemon juice, and mustard, combine well -Remove and discard the rind from the Brie, cut cheese into chunks -Return skillet to heat and add Brie, stir until melted -Pour the dressing over greens, top with croutons -Serve while warm

y - Friday 8-6 Saturday 8-5 • (540) 562-5424

BUsiNess BrieFs Three staff members of United Way have received new assignments.

Linda Webb has been promoted to Director of Development where she will oversee the community campaign. Prior to the move she served as Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving where she led efforts to grow major gifts. Webb has more than 15 years of community involvement in Roanoke Valley humanitarian and artistic causes.

Jasdeep K. Ghumman has been named Development Manager. She will be responsible for developing strategies to improve efforts within workplace campaigns, affinity giving groups and overall campaign operations to support more than 60 programs operated by the 27 United Way partner agencies in the Roanoke Valley.

Marie Muddiman has been promoted to Community Impact Manager. In addition to responsibilities for the allocation of funds, she also will work more closely in the development and implementation of strategies to

increase the impact of donor investments and grow the United Way Impact Fund..

Partnering with businesses, organizations and individuals, United Way of Roanoke Valley improves lives and strengthens families and neighborhoods, across the Roanoke Valley. To learn more about United Way, visit our website at www.uwrv. org.

Amrhein jewelry selected for design competetion A jewelry design by Amrhein’s master jeweler Robert T. Mills has been selected for this year’s JA-New York national jewelry competition. The design is one of three finalists, chosen from thirteen states submitting original jewelry designs. The competition is part of the annual gem and jewelry trade show by the Jewelers of America, which is being held at the Javits Center in New York City from March 9 – 11, 2008.

Mill’s design is a one-of-akind necklace, featuring a stunning 2.04-carat concave faceted

triangular cushion cut tourmaline with a beautiful sea foam green color. The unique Celtic inspired palladium mounting offers 0.35 carats of Vs clarity, F color diamonds. The pendant is suspended from an 18 inch, 1.8-millimeter wide palladium cable chain. “We are very honored to have been chosen for this competition,� said Chad Amrhein, General Manager of Amrhein’s Brides Formals and Fine Jewelry. “To be one of three original jewelry designs selected is quite an accomplishment.�

The Roanoke Star-Sentinel Subscribe Today!

Weekly Delivery for only $44.

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Roanoke Valley Harley-Davidson Monday-Friday 8 to 6 Saturday 8 to 5 540.562.5424 rvhd.com

Page 12 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 3/28/08

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