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The Roanoke Star-Sentinel Community | News | Per spective

5/9/08

TheRoanokeStar.com

[Election 2008]

Bowers back in mayor’s office Day of Festivals

Photo by Lawson Koeppel

David Bowers addresses media and well-wishers after his election to a third, nonconsecutive term as mayor.

P9– The Rescue Mission hosted the Third Annual Permanent Art Collection Competition last weekend.

Vikings Fall P8– Northside High School lost to the Alleghany Mountaineers 7-3 on their home field.

Young Dems P7– Young Democrats from Patrick Henry High School had an opportunity to meet Mark Warner as he kickedoff his campaign for the U.S. Senate .

Alvin Nash said he will remain on Roanoke City Council and his company, Blue Ridge Housing Development, will forgo funding from the U.S. DeCity Council p ar t me nt of Housing and Urban Development in order to bypass a conflict of interest.

He said HUD told him of their decision Thursday and that he met with his board of directors Friday on which course he should take. He said there were three directions to take: step down from council, step down from BRHD or simply give up the funding from HUD. “It was extemely tough [to give up the funding] but it was an opportunity to diversify,” Nash said.

He said by making that decision to forgo the grants the company was giving up 40 percent of its funding. That money is used for construction for first-time home buyers.

He said it would not affect any current projects, but would force the company to find other sources of income.

[

P12– Our roaming photographer found food, food and more food around Roanoke’s downtown this weekend.

Mission Art

Nash to stay on council, BRHD to forgo grants

Lea, Price, Rosen sweep council seats

could be part of it.”

Roanoke has a new may“I think it takes a lot of or and a Democratic Party guts and nerves to step out sweep of council seats after and do what you feel is Tuesday’s election. right,” Kianna said. “There David Bowers, an indewould not be a better person pendent, was elected to his to fill the place because she third, non-consecutive term means what she says and as mayor by defeating curshe’s about action.” rent mayor Nelson Harris Price’s Democratic run5,918 votes to 4,491. Sherning mate, Sherman Lea, man Lea earned the vicenot only won re-election, mayor’s seat with Anita Price but found his way into the and Court Rosen also being vice-mayor’s seat by garnerelected to council. ing 6,562 votes.

Price’s election makes her “I think we’re going to the first African-American woman to serve on city be energized with two new council.

Photo by Lawson Koeppel people,” Lea said. “I think “It’s awesome,” Price said, Anita Price and Court Rosen celebrate their victory Tuesday night. we’ll have, I feel, some very while celebrating with her outstanding minds at the daughters at 202 Market. “It table with Dr. Trinkle, Alvin Her daughters, Kiana Price Wade and makes me feel so proud because I have Alani Price Francis, said they were excited Nash, then bringing on Court and Anita. three daughters, I have four granddaugh- about their mother’s historic victory.

So I think we’ll be able to get a few things ters and it just makes me feel so incredibly “My mother’s always been a role model, done.”

He said that proud. But I didn’t do it alone, and I think not only for my sisters and I,” Alani said. that’s the thing that is so important to re- “I’m just very proud of my mom. I knew he has a working > CONTINUED member.” that she could do it. I’m just glad that we relationship with P3: Election

HTR Rescue Challenge tests area rescue squads The Heavy Tactical Rescue Challenge (HTR) was held in Roanoke this past week.

Members from multiple teams from all over Virginia converged on the valley where they were hosted by the Roanoke County, Roanoke City and City of Salem Rescue teams.

Several situations involving very complex and technical rescues were set up throughout the valley including locations at Catawba Hospital, the Transportation Museum, the Mill Mountain Star and other areas.

The event is not a competition to see who can perform a rescue the fastest but whether they can do it safely, quickly and the most appropriately. As the rescues unfold, judges watch teams from all vantages and critique the methods employed, equipment chosen, precautions taken etc. Information about each rescue is later shared as presentations are made so that all the teams can learn from each experience.

The teams come in a variety of sizes, from > CONTINUED P2: Rescue

> CONTINUED P3: Nash

Hurt Park May Day

Principal Carlton Bell

Event kicked-off city development program Since its conception, the annual May Day event has been a platform for the community of Hurt Park to get together and celebrate. In the past, the event was sponsored mostly by local churches. Two years ago agencies from Roanoke City as well as other community action groups really started to get involved. This year, the May Day event was used to kick-start the neighborhood revitalization project.

Revitalization About seven years ago, Roanoke City started doing studies to decide which neighborhoods needed the most development and revitalization. By using criteria sheets and statistics, the city was able to target the top six neighborhoods which would make up the core of the project. Those neighborhoods are Gainesboro, Hurt Park, Gilmer, Loudon-Melrose, Old South West, and Washington

[

Photo by Melanie Swecker

Two rescue squad members hoist a dummy to the top of the Mill Mountain Star.

]

> CONTINUED P3: Hurt Park

]

Page 2 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/9/08

TheRoanokeStar.com

VWLT hosts meetings on conservation easements

> Rescue From page 1

19 to 32 people and each can see the benefits that having smaller or large numbers can bring in different situations. They recognize that they don’t do these types of complex rescues very often but when they do they have to know how to do it well and have the necessary equipment to handle the job. Team members are constantly reminded that not only do they need to save the victim(s), but that they ultimately must “save” the rescuers themselves who are invariably in peril in such scenarios.

The complex exercises are run twice a day for four days (Mon-Thurs). A team will be called from a simulated base and told there is a rescue to be performed at a given location so it is a very real drill. In addition

to judges, instructors and teachers are positioned throughout the scenarios to monitor and critique their performance and make sure that participants remain safe.

In addition to firefighters, tower construction and maintenance technicians often take part in this training so that they have the ability to perform rescues on the spot. Any company that wishes to send participants for specific rescue training are allowed to take part in the exercise. This year’s event was coordinated in Roanoke

by Todd Reighley, Chuck Swecker, Barry Kincer and Josh Hall For more information contact Chuck Swecker at 725-6963 Photo by Melanie Swecker

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If you own 100 or more acres of land, Western Virginia Land Trust would like to tell you about an option. It’s an opportunity to learn how to keep your land intact and to ensure that rolling farmland remains visible in rural areas.

Roger Holnback, Executive Director and David Perry, Project Manager of WVLT are working hard to get the word out to land owners and family members who own land. They want landowners to know that there is such a thing as a conservation easement that will prevent rural land from being sold in pieces to developers of subdivisions with business in mind.

According to its website, WVLT has been in the business of educating people about this option of handling ownership of farmland since it was formed in 1996. Ten counties comprise the western Virginia region—Craig, Botetourt, Bedford, Roanoke, Montgomery, Floyd, Franklin, Henry, Patrick and Carroll--and Holnback has meetings scheduled in various locations throughout.

Fourteen meetings- about two meetings a week -have been scheduled over two months’ time ,each lasting one and a half to two hours. Holnback hopes that landowners will come and check into this possibility for themselves.

Landowners are invited to come and hear about how creating conservation easements can make a difference. Meetings are for educational purposes only Holnback said. It is not his place to try to sell participants anything. In fact, he will refer landowners to attorneys if necessary.

He doesn’t give legal advice but he will tell meeting participants everything he knows about easements for conservation What is a conservation easement? It is a deeded allocation of property where landowners give up development rights for tax benefits, said Holnback. It’s voluntary and is ideally suited for families that don’t want to develop their land.

He said he has first hand experience in how families discuss the business of owning property and if a family is not ready to talk about money and ownership then he says he’ll wait. He understands that the subject of money is a sensitive one for many people.

“I’m patient,” he said.

Many of Holnback’s customers are over 70. “The older generation doesn’t want to talk about money,” he said. He said some people tell him that, “they just don’t trust their grandbabies” with these financial matters. The free DVD WVLT gives participants is anectdotal and give good testimonials about these matters, he said.

He will meet with individual landowners to talk if that’s what the landowner wants. If he sees that a conservational easement isn’t right for the landowner’s situation, he’ll say so. It’s not for everyone and he’ll be the first to admit that.

Conservational easements involve a third-party restriction that stays with the land forever, he says. The grantee is obligated to enforce the easement forever.

“Every family and farm is absolutely unique,” said Holnback.

There are other “ways to own land other than Mr. and Mrs.,” he said.

The DVD discusses goals of landownership, conservational easements, financial benefits, and the steps in completing an easement. Legal and financial aspects of easements are covered as well as appraisals. Holnback said he encourages meeting attendees to go home and watch the DVD and learn more about this at their own pace.

He would like to see a good turn out at upcoming meetings: Thursday, May 22, 7-8:30 p.m. at the Mt Pleasant Fire Station and Thursday, May 29, 7-8:30 p.m. at Back Creek Elementary School.

People are invited to attend more than one meeting if they’d like in to order to get a better feel for what may be a brand new idea.

Holnback is patient, as he said, and, after all, he’s just the teacher.

“Everyone knows somebody with land,” said Holnback.

By Joan Kastner info@theroanokestar.com

5/9/08 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 3

TheRoanokeStar.com

Warner kicks off campaign Local Democrats and even some Republican converts were up early Monday morning when they greeted former Governor Mark Warner at the new Fire Station #1 in downtown Roanoke. The occasion was Warner’s announcement that he will indeed seek the United State Senate seat being vacated by the retiring John Warner (no relation) this November. Warner conducted a statewide tour earlier this week to kick off his campaign, which will be ratified formally with the party’s nomination at the state Democrat convention next month.

Roanoke City Mayor Nelson Harris recognized many of the current and former elected office holders in the crowd.

Harris invited Roanoke City school board chairman David Carson to the podium, at a time when Carson has caught some heat from Northwest residents for the recent decision to close Forest Park Elementary School and send students packing to other schools.

Carson sounded a familiar theme, talking about the “inflexibility of No Child Left Behind… [it] is killing urban areas like ours. We must have flexibility.”

Warner has talked about No Child Left Behind and the Standards of Learning in much the same way. When he appeared Warner said Washington had “saddled” Virginia and other states with unfunded mandates like No Child Left Behind. Carson also said he was “delighted with Mark Warner’s education record as governor.”

Well-known Republican Heywood Fralin brought Warner to the stage after describing the one time presidential hopeful as some-

Photo by Gene Marrano

Mark Warner at Fire Station #1 on Monday morning as he prepared for a United States Senate run. one who could work across party lines. Warner said he could put petty partisanships aside if elected to the Senate. “If you give me the chance I’ll work with anyone,” said Warner, who was greeted by enthusiastic cheers. He soon launched into a familiar story about failed bids he has made in the past for the U.S. Senate (‘96) and two business ventures that did not take off before he became an early cell phone magnate. He drew laughs by referring to his unsuccessful run against John Warner in 1996 as “my silver medal run.”

Mark Warner professed his admiration for the elder Warner, calling him a statesman, then joked that he would like to form a coalition of Democrats and Republicans called the “Radical Centrists.”

After the formal program on Monday, Warner said he was ready to roll up his sleeves and compare his record as governor

to Gilmore’s, citing what he said was an inherited deficit four times larger than what the Republican had indicated. “We paid our debts, we kept our commitments,” said Warner of his own tenure from 2002-2005.

Because of issues like high gas prices, spiking food costs and record home foreclosures “the nation is at a crossroads,” said Warner. On the international front he would put pressure on Iraq to take more responsibility for its future and said the war torn country was sitting on 70 billion dollars in oil revenues that it wasn’t reinvesting.

Warner said he would be the type of Senator needed: “we must have political leadership in Washington that is willing to take this country forward. We can do better – but it’s going to take all of us.”

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

> Hurt Park

Harris, Wishneff bow out of council Tuesdays election has two incumbents, who often butted heads on issues, returning to civilian life.

Roanoke City Mayor Nelson Harris said that in some ways he was looking forward to departing from office, which will give him more time to spend at home, with his Virginia Heights Baptist Church congregation and to write.

The history buff has authored several books on the Roanoke area. He wished Bowers the best and said many of the initiatives he backed were the right thing to do, like stadiums at the high schools, backing the school board on unpopular decisions and efforts to attract young people.

“I would not have done that differently,” Harris said. “At the end of the day I can take satisfaction in what I accomplished.” Harris did admit that there may have been, “too much change too fast for our city. We took bold steps.”

Harris’ running mate for this election, Sherman Lea, said Harris tenure was good for the city.

“He likes to get things done,” Lea said. “He doesn’t procrastinate. He wants to move forward quickly.

He’s very assertive, he wants to move on things...sometimes he can be a little quick on the draw.

Brian Wishneff, who was Lea’s running mate in 2004, said there would be an automatic recount because the vote was under 1 percent, but understood it would be tough to overturn the 102 votes that stood between his shot at another term on council.

“Four years in the minority position is not any fun,” Wishneff said.

He said four years of attacks by the Roanoke Times were probably what led to his just-missing reelection.

“Congratulations to Court,” Wishneff said.

From page 1

Park.

The idea behind the project is to channel annual federal funding into a neighborhood for roughly three years. This will allow the city to focus their efforts and resources so that housing gets built, streets get repaired, and progress can be made instead of thinning the resources out to several neighborhoods at one time.

As Housing Development Specialist Ms. Angie Williamson stated, “you get more bang for your buck.” The project also allows the community to take advantage of other programs the city has. The Department of Neighborhood Services oversees the federal funding, making sure that the targeted neighborhood has the resources it needs. This kind of project “costs a lot,” said Mr. Frank Baratta, Roa-

> Nash

noke City’s Budget Team Leader.

Since the cost is relatively high, five housing agencies will aid in supplying resources to the revitalization project. The agencies participating in the Housing Partnership are: the Blue Ridge Housing Development Corp., Rebuilding Together Roanoke, Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority, Habitat for Humanity in the Roanoke Valley and Total Action Against Poverty. This is one of the few times in which the agencies work together instead of competing. Those involved are “excited about the unity.”

The May Day event itself felt more like a family cookout than as the launch of a city development program. Hot dogs, popcorn, drinks, and games were all part of the festivities. Attendants greeted

each other on a first name basis and the sense of a tight knit community could truly be felt. The West Side Step Team performed and even taught some willing participants a few dance steps, including Mr. Carlton Bell, the principal of Hurt Park Elementary School.

The celebration kicked off at 8:30am with a 2- and 4- mile run/ walk followed by the children’s 1K at 9:35am. Children enjoyed a moon bounce, a ring toss style game, basketball as well as a bicycle rodeo which focused on teaching bicycle safety. Bicycle helmets provided by a Junior Department of Health grant were handed out to children who attended the event.

Roanoke City police as well as firemen from Company 7 also came out and enjoyed the festivities, including one fireman who

From page 1

“We’re going to look at more private development,” Nash said. He said the company would also take a regional approach with other municipalities like Salem and Roanoke County.

“We felt we had a good case for an exemption,” he said. He said everyone has a conflict of one type or another and the key was to manage the conflict.

Nash said his board agreed that his position on council gave him a better opportunity to address neighborhood revitalization, a focus of BRHD, in a new way.

“Council is not more important,” Nash said of his decision, “but it is an important opportunity” The conflict of interest exists because HUD gives the funding to the city, who then chooses how to distribute the money. With Nash on council he would have a say as to whether or not the money goes to BRHD.

By Lawson Koeppel lkoeppel@theroanokestar.com

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> Election From page 1

mayor-elect Bowers as well.

“He’s got experience from being mayor,” Lea said.

“Things have changed. But I think we all have to listen to what the voters said today. They said, ‘look we want some change. If you want to change it, mayor, show us what you’re going to do. If you’re going to ‘Run David Run’ show us where we’re going to run to.’”

Bowers hosted his reception at the Blue 5 Restaurant.

“It won’t be just the city administrator telling us, the people, what we’re supposed to be doing anymore,” Bowers said in his victory speech. “It won’t be anymore secret meetings of the city council.”

Bowers said the makeup of the new council was out of his hands, but that he would bring a positive attitude to the position.

“I will extend the hand of friendship to Nelson Harris. I will ask him for his council,” Bowers said. “This election should signify the healing between victors and the defeated. Having suffered the humiliation of defeat, many defeats, too many defeats, I stand here today humble to be your next mayor. And I pledge to you that I will be a gracious winner, gracious and inviting to those who were defeated today, gracious and inviting to those of us who do not share our view. Their views. Nonetheless, should be and will be heard, Gracious and friendly to our citizens. They are

personally tested the integrity of the elementary school’s swing set.

Other sponsors and supporters included the Roanoke Water Authority, Roanoke City Public Library, Carilion Clinic and Kroger.

Photos by Gene Marrano and Lawson Koeppel

Current Roanoke Mayor Nelson Harris (above) and Roanoke Councilman Brian Wishneff (below) don’t see eye to eye on the majority of issues surrounding the city. As of July 1, 2008 they will see a lot less of each other as both lost their bids for re-election.

in need of a city council that will listen to them. They are in need of a city council that will allow our citizens to set the agenda, not our administrators.”

Bowers said he wanted to see the city save Forest Park and Oakland Elementary schools, keep Mill Mountain free from development and keep funding for critical services.

“We can cut a lot of things out of the budget, perhaps the city manager’s salary,” he said, “but we do not need to cut the number of firefighters responding to our calls. And credit cards, I say, ‘cut them up.’” Bowers said.

At the Democratic Party reception Tuesday night Rosen refused to comment on his selection by Roanoke voters or to dropping from a front-runner to beating incumbent Brian Wishneff by less than 1 percent.

Rosen said he refused to speak to the Roanoke Star-Sentinel because of critical ads that ran in both the Star-Sentinel and Roanoke Times.

When asked Tuesday morning at the Crystal Spring poll if everything in the advertisements was true, Rosen said, “yes.”

The candidates will officially take office July 1.

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perSpectiVe

Page 4 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/9/08

TheRoanokeStar.com

T

Have you seen what happens when little boys get a little ‘wilderness’ in them?

A

s of late a good friend of mine and I have turned into rock hunters. Our eventual goal is to have the “perfect” rocks for a couple backyard projects. This pursuit took us to a hunt camp owned by a dear friend in the mountains of Highland County who just happened to have an abundance of field stone. So to the mountains we were headed.

In tow were our two seven year old sons excited about the prospect of going into the mountains for the weekend with their dads.

Have you seen what happens to little boys when they get a little wilderness into them? Let me give you a look. In the span of 24

hours these two boys did the following: Drove 3 hours in a truck with their dads (that is cool all by itself); talked on walkie talkies the whole way; counted cows, sheep and deer; played with new born calves and lambs; learned to turn on water and propane to a cabin; lit propane lights; stayed where there was no electricity and didn’t even notice; drove in 4-wheel drive up and down several mountains; got dirty; went to the bathroom outside (several times); carried pocket knives (the ultimate of cool to a little boy); worked hard… really hard; got dirty; saw up close one of the most poisonous snakes in this part of the country, a coiled Timber Rattlesnake,

and let it go; ran from truck (again, cool all bees; loaded rocks; got by itself). Rememdirty; stepped in cow ber, this was just part stuff; threw rocks in a of the time. pond; looked at racAn interesting coon tracks; cut up thing happens when worms for bait; fished; a boy gets away from ate steak; built a fire; everyday, electronic learned to play poker life. He opens up, he and handily beat everyfeels free, and most one with a Full House; important of all he Keith McCurdy didn’t know what time begins to feel what it was; stayed up way passed all little boys need to experience, bedtime; got completely worn he begins to feel able. When a out; slept in a sleeping bag on boy or man gets out in the real a bunk; got up early without an (natural) world, he either learns alarm clock; shot rifles; got dirty; to cope or not. This is what cresaw cows go to the bathroom (it ates a sense of being able and cais quite an experience for those pable. Confidence and a healthy who have not seen this); cleaned self image are rooted in this…. up a cabin; and drove home in this sense of being able, sturdy,

capable. It is hard for a child to get this from playing video games, watching TV or spending time on the computer. These things do not transfer well into the real world. When someone gets hurt in a video game, they really aren’t hurt. When you get hurt in real life, it’s real, it hurts.

Once a child has this experience, they are changed, they are more real. This change helps to fight off things like anxiety, shyness, need for electronic stimulation, getting easily bored, etc. When a child feels capable, they begin to create fun, they know they can.

They begin to view situations differently, instead of wondering if they can do or fix something, they wonder how they are go-

ing to do or fix something. And this type of experience breeds a desire for more of these experiences. It is hard for many of us to get our children outside and away from so many modern conveniences, but it is vital for healthy development. Whether it is fishing, hiking, canoeing, or just camping in the back yard…. get outside. Your children will thank you.

At the end of the trip, we got home and I began unloading rocks into my backyard. My son came around after unloading his things and said, “Dad, is it OK if I sit out here on the deck and whittle for a while?” It has been another 24 hours and he hasn’t even mentioned the TV.

Adventure in the West Virginia rain Roanoke Revisited

W

about a mile until we ing latch. We enter the pass through a cut in a dark, cozy one-room large spruce log. This hut and marvel at the marks the point at construction and fitwhich we take a comting out of the place, pass heading of about the neatness, the pro210 degrees off the trail visions. Gosh, it’s nice through the dense forto get out of the incesest. We now employ a sant rain, but in a few rather old GPS which minutes I feel Chevy has seen better days Chase in Vacation John W. Robinson - wrestling with the welling up inside me. loose external antenna I clap my hands and connection, holding the unit high say, “OK, got it, let’s go!” Standing over head while waiting for sat- around cold and wet for more than ellite reception, as the cold rain a few minutes is not an option, so trickles down my arm, is “fun” we’re off, mission accomplished. only in a very abstract sort of way.

That is – “almost accomplished.”

I have left my reading glasses in We still have to get back to the the truck, so Taylor has to inter- truck. After another period of pret the rain-soaked screen. We bungling in the woods we lostumble around that part of the cate the marked trail and hoof it mountain for a bit longer than through the creek-like trail back to NEW LOCATION! Same great service! necessary, it seems. the parking area. It is a wet round Finally, we break out of a thick trip of three hours. Never has the Call us for stand of Rhododendron into an heater in that truck felt so good. locations of area of large spruce trees with little There are lots of Aaahhhs as we drop off sites under-story, and there, perched peel off wet layers and eat cookies 342-2155 on a huge boulder, is the classic in the fogged up vehicle.

M, T, Th, & F - 9 am-6pm hobbit cabin we’ve been seekBut then a sinking feeling creeps W & S - 9am-2pm ing. We excitedly open the heavy over me. Where is my camera? I timber door, after deciphering look at Taylor. He looks at me with 3310-B Brandon Ave. Roanoke, 24018 (Between Brewster’s & Dairy Queen) the operation of the hidden slid- an ashen face. It doesn’t take long to realize that it’s back at the cabin, sitting in its little plastic leftovers R A D F O R D , V I R G I N I A box with the lid likely ajar, in the rain, next to the front door.

I have to go back and get it. Tomorrow will be too late. If rain gradually seeps into the open box the Canon will be ruined. There are still at least four hours until dark. I can do it. I can find the cabin again. But it will be miserable.

Clutching his cookies, Taylor says, “Dad, I’ll go with you if you want me too.” He really means it too, but I think that is above and beyond the call of duty. Besides, I think the idea of him in the warm cozy truck as I run my camera recovery mission will be a cheery Former St. Albans Hospital Campus one.

I’m almost at the cabin again.

I’m momentarily lost. Then I see Property features a 106,800± sq. ft. Class A office building it through the rhododendron.

New River Frontage completed in 1980 as a psychiatric hospital, as well as an And there’s the camera. The lid to historic building and long river frontage on the New River offering excellent tax benefits from historic renovation its box is on after all. The trusty and conservation easements. The sale, which is being Canon G7 is cozy and dry, just like conducted on behalf of Radford University Real Estate Taylor back at the truck, just like I Foundation, also includes 58± acres of prime undeveloped will be as soon as I thrash my way commercial/residential land. Property will be offered in 7 back to the main trail and jog the parcels. Property Address & Sale Site: 6226 University Park soggy miles through this glorious Dr., Radford, VA 24141. Visit www.woltz.com for information. 5% buyer’s premium added to high bid. cold and wet afternoon. But the adventure is worth it. Sometimes Office • Commercial • Recreation • Residential Development you’ve just got to get out in it.

ell, Taylor, that didn’t take long.”

I’m referring to how quickly the rain has seeped into my “water-resistant” boots and totally soaked my feet. I’m now walking with a pronounced squashy feel. It’s kind of rhythmic, the squish-squash of foot in sock syncopated by the splish-splash of boot to puddle. I turn around mid-stride and peer at Taylor through the curtain of raindrops falling from my canvas hat brim.

Like me, he no longer attempts to avoid the puddles, just mows on through. We’re moving at a good pace.

Sometimes you’ve just got to get out in it. Out in the wider world;

out in the weather. The more restless among us even feel compelled to get out in weather which most would consider “bad”, if not “dreadful”. It can be a kind of “fine and pleasant misery”, as humorist Patrick McManus calls it.

This part of the trail is easy to follow, although on this day “moderate sized creek” might be a better description of the path.

Son Taylor and I are in the Cranberry Wilderness high country on the North Mountain Trail. It’s early April and the rain is steady.

The temperature is close to the freezing point, and we notice ice on the hemlocks in places. Yeah, it’s miserable.

We head down this side trail

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The strange Hollins gravestone

S

tories of ghosts and goldmines are some of the legends of Appalachia.

One of the strangest local area stories appeared in the Roanoke World-News on November 12, 1929. The feature editor wrote.

Bud “On a wind-swept hill, about a mile south of Hollins College, is probably the most unusual gravestone in Southwest Virginia. Its strange design has always aroused lively interest in the minds of local residents.

“The tombstone is a solid block of granite, raised about a foot above the ground by blocks of limestone. The coffin size structure is about four feet long by two feet wide and nine inches tall. Carved inside the coffin is the figure of a sleeping child--its features almost erased by exposure to the weather.

“The stone marks the grave of nine year old Robert Denton who died on September 9, 1805. It was erected by his father, Benjamin Denton, who owned the land.”

According to legend, Lawrence Krone, a stone mason, became very ill while traveling through the area, and was cared for by the Denton family. It was during this time that the child died. When Krone recovered from his illness, he carved the stone as a token of his appreciation.

The monument faces east and west. A setting sun is carved on the west corner while a new moon is pictured on the east.

They symbolize the beginning and ending of life.

The most curious thing about the stone are its German and Latin inscriptions--the German on the south top of the Contact John at gravestone, and Latin on the jwr77@verizon.net side. The carvings read:

Once loved, once valued, now avails me not, Though, my relations have forgot me not, Sleeping in the dust, I still must here remain, Till the archangel Feuer calls his numerous train.

Sleep on sweet babe, the day draws neigh, When God will call thee to the sky, There to behold his blest adobe, And dwell forever near thy God. An air of mystery has always surrounded the tombstone.

Aside from a few scattered records, very little is known about the Dentons. A few years after the burial, members of the family moved to Maryland and Pennsylvania.

One of the many stories about the tombstone is that there is a goldmine on Benjamin Denton’s property, and that he always paid his bills with a crude hand-made gold coin.

The stone also has a romantic connection. It was at the site in 1832 that John Latrobe proposed marriage to Charlotte Claiborne. They had stopped at the Botetourt Springs Hotel which stood on the present site of Hollins College.

Stories of ghosts and goblins have added to the legend-especially around Halloween, when people walking past the cemetery--on a cold, windy November night, have sworn that they could hear a child sobbing in the darkness.

If anyone has additional information on the gravesite, please contact me.

Contact Bud at abfeuer@cox.net

The Roanoke Star-Sentinel C o m mu n i t y | N ew s | Pe r s p e c t i ve Publisher | Stuart Revercomb | stuart@theroanokestar.com | 400-0990 Editor | Lawson Koeppel | lkoeppel@theroanokestar.com | 400-0990 Advertising Dir. | Vickie Henderson | advertising@theroanokestar.com | 400-0990 Technical Webmaster | Don Waterfield | anrpgpgmr@yahoo.com | 400-0990 The Roanoke Star-Sentinel is published weekly by Whisper One Media, Inc. in Roanoke, Va. Subscriptions are available for $44 per year. Send subscriptions to PO Box 8338, Roanoke, VA 24014.

We encourage letters from our readers on topics of general interest to the community and responses to our ar ticles and columns. Letters must be signed and have a telephone number for verification. All letters will be verified before publication. The Star-Sentinel reserves the right to deny publication of any letter and edit letters for length, content and style.

All real estate advertised herein is subject to national and Virginia fair housing laws and readers are hereby informed that all dwellings adver tised in this newspaper are available on an equal oppor tunity basis.

perSpectiVe

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The old swing ain’t quite what it used to be

2

008 marks the final year of the lead-off spot, one who would competitive sports for this not lap me around the bases should writer. Where once stood I happen to get a hit. However, upon a gap hitting, slick fielding third further consideration, I decided that sacker now stands a weak kneed, the best course of action was for me immobile first baseman with forty to not reach base at all, therefore enpounds of Mac and Cheese hangtirely eliminating the possibility of ing over his belt. Gone are the days any type of exercise. when a legged-out triple concluded My first at bat came in the second in a Pete Rose-like swan dive into inning. Digging my cleats into the the bag. Now I just try to find a hole batter’s box, struck my stance and Jon Kauffman in the outfield and ramble down stared down the pitcher. As the ball the first base line like a beer truck arched towards the plate I thought with four flat tires.

“This is a perfect pitch to hit right at the shortMy company fields a co-ed softball team ev- stop for a quick out.” My hands released, the bat ery spring and this year I have been elected as made solid contact and the ball flew over the coach of the team. We have twenty seven peo- shortstop’s head and through the leftfielder’s ple on our roster, yet, due to varying schedules, legs. This was not at all what I was looking for. we rarely have more than ten players available More annoyed than excited, I waddled down for each game. Prior to the season I made my the baseline, stiffed-legged like Forrest Gump body a promise not to actually play in any of in his “magic shoes.” the games unless I was really needed. I know Rounding first base I noticed that no one that my body appreciated the sentiment, yet had backed up the leftfielder and the ball was down deep it had to know that it wouldn’t be rolling towards the fence. The ballplayer inside long until I heard the echoes of bygone days of me thought “Wow, this looks like an insidecalling my name. the-park home run”, while the practical side of Sure enough, I was pressed into action for me wondered if any of my suits still fit me well the second game of the season when only nine enough just in case I needed to be buried the of my co-workers dressed for the contest. next day. No one likes a sloppy looking corpse I would be anchoring down first base that with buttons popping out, do they? evening (if you caught a glimpse of me in my With every base I turned I could hear my uniform you would understand why “anchor” heart thumping a little louder. When I finally is an appropriate description), and batting in reached home plate my ticker sounded like the the tenth slot in the lineup. Thinking strategi- sound track from “Drum Line.” My teammates cally, I slotted an extremely slow runner to fill greeted me warmly and I, in turn, tried not to

throw up on them.

I had three more at bats in that game and reached base every time. I considered striking out intentionally in my last at bat, but my baseball soul would not let me whiff in slow pitch softball.

We pounded the opposing team for 23 runs on countless errors. Our opponents put me in mind of a girl’s high school softball team that I had coached years before in New York. The school was one of those small private institutions that catered to the upper crust. The team consisted of twelve lovely young ladies with no discernible athletic talent. Along with a lack of talent came a lack of interest in learning the game of softball. My team thought the uniforms were cute and that it might be fun to hang out together and travel on the bus to games.

Our practice schedule was as follows......

Monday-Still recovering from the weekend Tuesday-Practice followed by shopping Wednesday- Nails followed by shopping Thursday- Spa day followed by shopping Friday- “Practice, as if!”

We lost our opening game 54-0, when the contest was called on account of darkness in the bottom of the first inning and things got worse from there.

Softball is over for me now. My knees have hidden my glove and my pulmonary system has put me on the bench. Maybe Thursday at the spa isn’t such a bad idea after all.

Contact Jon at Jon.Kaufman@sprint.com

God in the silence of a South Carolina beach

I

love the beach. I am happiest with my feet in the warm sun and my nose in a good book. I try each year to set aside two weeks in the early fall to go to my favorite beach in South Carolina (is that a cardinal sin for a Virginian to admit?)

The first week I invite my children and grandchildren to come for a time of relaxing family togetherness. The second week I reserve for myself. I use it for quiet reflection. Visiting with friends.

Shopping. I look forward to that time all year long. A time to be refreshed, physically, emotionally and spiritually. It’s a time I give myself permission to do nothing.

I am an early riser. Particularly at the beach. I get up before dawn and start the coffee. I sit on the porch and have my first cup then go to walk on the beach as the dawn approaches. The damp salt air is still cool from the night. Few people are out at that time – those that are are usually out walking their dogs or looking for seashells deposited on the shore during the night. The gulls are waking up, calling to each other. There is a slight breeze moving the sea grass.

It is a special time for me.

I have written about my love for this time I reserve for myself and God. It is a time where I walk and pray – praising Him for everything that comes to mind – just lift it all up to Him as I enjoy the beauty of His creation. The scripture tells us that His way is in the sea (Ps 77:19), “Your way was in the sea And Your paths in the mighty waters...” Each year I meditate on that. How is He reflected in the sea? He is powerful, consistent, deep, fearful, awesome, beautiful…I never tire of thinking about God in this way. I have marked in

the back of my Bible all that I had really wantthe verses I have found ed Him to show up for that expound on this me. I told Him that I idea. I review them. I had done all I could to not only praise Him but “tune Him in” but He talk to Him about the was silent and I was, things that are on my to be honest, unhapheart and mind. And I py. I kept telling Him also to listen for Him – that I needed to hear to hear from Him. from Him…I kept Last summer was no reading my Bible. I Ruth Graham different. Each mornkept journaling. I felt ing I would walk the I was holding up my beach and often later in the day end of the bargain. as well. Talking to Him. Praising The last morning I got a big Him. Eager to hear from Him. But mug of coffee and headed for there was nothing the first day, or the beach. Dawn was not even the second day, or the third day – perceptible on the horizon. So a whole week went by. I was get- sat down on the beach steps and ting concerned. quietly waited for dawn to come.

Was I blocking Him in some I was disappointed and discourway? Unconfessed sin? A harbored aged – the end of a vacation is alresentment? No doubt. So I asked ways a “down time”. But I felt that Him to show me what was in the I had not received what I wanted way. Nothing. Quiet. So I took a from God –no breakthrough in self-guided tour through my heart my spiritual life, no word from and mind. Nothing seemed to be God, no feelings, no special exglaring at me. perience or insight... When it My second beach week was was light enough for me to see, I passing rapidly. I took my ipod began my last beach walk for the with me on my walks listening to year. praise music as I walked thinking I asked God “why”? Why did that might give a break through. He remain silent when He knew I I began to tell God that I was not wanted to hear from Him? Why happy about His silence. My time had He not spoken comfortat the beach – this special time I ing and reassuring words to my had set aside to be with Him – heart? I felt defeated. was almost over. Didn’t He know My ipod was playing praise it had been a very difficult year music and I had sort of tuned it on many fronts with the death of out – thinking about what had to my mother as well as significant be done – packing up, driving the changes and transitions in my seven hours home, preparing for ministry? Didn’t He know I had my up-coming trip to Ireland. As a very hectic fall schedule loom- I headed back to the house I sat ing? Didn’t He know there were back down on the steps for anpressing issues and I needed to other look at the beach. As I sat feel His presence and hear His down the Brooklyn Tabernacle voice. I needed His reassurance.

Choir came on my ipod singing The next to last morning I was “Lord I Believe in You” – a song there, I was desperate. I told God I had not really heard before.

“Though I can’t see your holy face and your throne in heaven above it seems so far away and, though I can’t touch, can’t touch, your nail scarred hands I have a deep unspeakable joy that makes my faith to stand. Lord I believe in you. I’ll always believe in you.

Though I can’t see you with my eyes deep in my heart your presence I find. Lord I believe in you and I’ll keep my trust in you.

Tears filled my eyes and began to spill down my cheeks. I confirmed my belief in the Lord.

Though I hadn’t heard from Him in the way I expected to or felt His presence as I wanted to, I still believed. Nothing was going to take that away. I confessed that I had put Him in a box – like a genie in a bottle. If I did all the right things, said the right things, gave Him the time, He would show up. He showed me that my faith didn’t rest on any experience I might or might not have. It rested in Him and the fact that He was present whether I felt Him or not.

I simply needed to declare my belief in Him. My belief rests in a God who is in relationship with me. He loves me. He irrevocably, profoundly proved it 2000 years ago.

I left the beach, packed the car, turned in the house keys and headed back home. There were still issues to face, grief to feel, schedules to meet, mail to answer...there were still questions… there always will be this side of Heaven. Life isn’t easy. Believing doesn’t take away real life. In a very profound way I settled in my heart that regardless of what was or was not happening in my life, whether I felt Him or not, whether I heard from Him or not, I believed in Him.

5/9/08 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 5

Juneteenth ‘08 O

n June 14’th “JUNETEENTH at 12 noon, ‘O8” is also part of the Roanoke, SCLC’s gang prevenVa. Southern Christian tion program. The Leadership ConferRoanoke SCLC wants ence will hold “JUNEto provide our young TEENTH ‘O8,” at Washpeople with an opporington Park in Roanoke, tunity to meet posiVa. For full disclosure, I tive role models from am one of the organizall spectrums and all ers of this event. “JUNEwalks of life in hope Jeff Artis TEENTH ‘O8” is a day that our youth will bewe celebrate the end of come productive citislavery in America along with uni- zens. To meet this objective, busity, fellowship and brotherhood. nesses, churches, clubs, colleges, Due to the generosity of schools and civic organizations are Wal·Mart, Pepsi, Frito Lay, Pep- more than welcome to attend “JUperidge Farm, George Weston NETEENTH ‘O8” to set up a table Bakeries, Kraft Foods, Sara Lee, free of charge for community eduCongressman Bob Goodlatte, cation. If you like, you can even set Roanoke City Manager Darlene up a grill and cook out for those in Burcham, Roanoke City School attendance as they visit your table.

Superintendent Rita Bishop, The In the spirit of Dr. Martin LuRoanoke Star Sentinel, Brenda ther King, Jr., founder of the Keeling, Mac McCadden, and SCLC, “JUNETEENTH ‘O8” is other wonderful people and con- not a Black gathering, it is a comcerned citizens, this event is free munity gathering. Again, “JUNEto the public, food and entertain- TEENTH ‘O8” is a day of unity, ment included. fellowship and brotherhood. “JUWhat is “JUNETEENTH?” On NETEENTH ‘O8” is a day we can January 1, 1863, Abraham Lincoln all come together as brothers and signed the Emancipation Proc- sisters regardless of race, color, lamation. On April 9, 1865, the creed, socioeconomic level or poAmerican Civil War ended. How- litical party affiliation to simply ever, the last slaves held in the for- have a good time and to get to mer Confederate States of Ameri- know each other better. ca did not know of their freedom Last year’s “JUNETEENTH” until June 19, 1865. On this date, celebration was huge a success.

Major General Gordon Granger This year’s event will be even betled the United States Army into ter. To see an updated roster for Galveston, Texas. Upon arriving this year’s event or to see pictures in Galveston, General Granger and information concerning read “General Order Number 3” last year’s event, please log onto, which stated: HYPERLINK”http://www.jeffar“The people of Texas are in- tis.com.”www.jeffartis.com. formed that in accordance with a If you would like to participate Proclamation from the Executive in “JUNETEENTH ‘O8”, please of the United States, all slaves are contact me at (540)243-0166. I free.” would be honored for you to atWith General Granger’s reading tend and l or participate in this of “General Order Number 3,” the wonderful event of unity, fellowlast 250,000 slaves of the former ship and brotherhood.

Confederacy were freed. The date Contact Jeff at of June 19, 1865, became known jeff@jeffartis.com as “Juneteenth Day,” the day all of the slaves in the South were finally free.

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The Recipe of the Week I found this recipe in a Southern Living cookbook – “Our Readers Top-Rated Recipes.”

It is probably the best thing I make, at least to its many fans.

I have made it for “bunco,” for camping, for cookouts, for fishing trips, for people who just had a baby, for people who have lost loved ones. It is a ministry all on its own. For me it brings back great memories and it seems to always spread joy. I love when food conjures up wonderful memories and moments. Who doesn’t bite into watermelon without thinking about the 4th

from The Happy Chef

by Leigh Sackett

Mama’s Fried Chicken of July? One thing I have noticed is people tend to shy away from cooking fried chicken because they think it is so messy and complicated. But it is very simple; it just takes a little time.

With this recipe I set the timer while each side is frying and I go off and get other things done.

In fact I am frying chicken right now as I write this…ha-ha, just kidding. But really, you could relax and read a book while frying chicken, it is that easy! So have it today or save it for your summertime moments!

18-21 chicken legs – drumsticks salt pepper 1 quart of buttermilk Self-rising flour -Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper -Place chicken in large shallow container (I use a couple of big Tupperware containers) -Pour buttermilk over chicken, cover or seal, chill for at least 2 hours -Remove chicken from buttermilk, discard buttermilk

Open 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Mon. - Sat. Closed Sundays

-Dredge chicken in flour -Pour oil to a depth of 1 ½ inches into a deep skillet of Dutch oven, heat to 360 degrees -Add chicken, a few pieces at a time (I can get about 6 pieces in one batch) -Cover and cook 6 minutes -Uncover cook 9 minutes -Turn chicken, cover and cook 6 minutes -Uncover cook 5-9 minutes, turning chicken the last 3 minutes for even browning -Drain on paper towels -Serve warm or cold, it is yummy either way!

Low Carb BBQ? Try a BBQ Wrap & Iced Tea 95

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www.henrysmemphisbbq.com

Schools

Page 6 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/9/08

Subway hosts safety assemblies

According to the National Childhood Identifica- strengthening our communities,” said Robert Adams, tion Program, it is estimated that every 40 seconds Board Chairman of Subway of Roanoke, Lynchburg one child becomes lost or goes missing. To combat and surrounding areas. “Should an emergency hapthis crisis, Subway has partnered with local law en- pen, parents and children who use these Child ID forcement agencies to launch the Subway Kits will be better prepared to more quickly City Schools Child ID Campaign with two child safety help law enforcement do their vitally imassemblies on Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at portant work.”

10:00 a.m. at Oakland Intermediate School The kits are available to the public at no in Roanoke and the Boys and Girls Club in Lynch- cost. Subway encourages parents to use these kits to document their child’s vital information such as finburg.

Subway is launching the program leading-up to gerprints, dental records, an updated photo, and disNational Missing Children’s Day, which is May 25, tinguishing marks like scars or birthmarks.

“With kids getting out of school for the summer 2008. Local Subway store owners hope to prepare children and their parents/guardians for their typi- soon, it is a very important time to further educate cally more active lifestyles during the spring and our children about best practices for staying safe,” said summer by providing child safety training and free Deputy Frank Garrett, Roanoke City Sheriff ’s departSubway Child ID Kits. The public can pick up Sub- ment. “Our hope in helping Subway kick-off this proway Child ID Kits at local Subway locations begin- gram, is that families can take better precautionary ning May 7, 2008. Kits are free of charge with no measures to help their children stay safe as well as be purchase necessary and will be available in stores better prepared if an emergency does happen.”

The Subway Child ID campaign is also being while supplies last.

“Local Subway franchisees are supporting this launched throughout the month in several markets initiative and providing free Subway Child ID Kits around the country. With help from the local law ento all customers, because we care about the health forcement, Subway hopes to distribute as many kits and safety of all children and want to do our part in as possible.

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TheRoanokeStar.com

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PH Young Democrats show up for Warner visit

]

Photo by Gene Marrano

Mark Warner (center) with the Patrick Henry Young Democrats.

Many may be too young to vote come November but they’re old enough to get involved.

Members of the Patrick Henry High School Young Democrats Club showed up Monday morning when former Governor Mark Warner came to Roanoke and announced he will run for the United States Senate this fall. The Democrat will battle the presumptive Republican nominee, Jim Gilmore, another former Governor. Warner posed with members of the Patrick Henry Young Democrats Club after his speech.

“We are a new club that got started back in November with a few dedicated students and have grown to about 24 active members,” says Nathan Parrish, Social Science Teacher and Young Dem-

ocrats Advisor at PH. “We are becoming more involved with the Democratic party as we look to the big three campaigns this fall Sam Rasoul, Mark Warner, and whomever the Democratic presidential nominee will be (most of the students favor Obama).”

Parrish said some of the YD students worked polls for the city elections on Tuesday. Others became involved with the club because they were already volunteering for Rasoul, Democratic challenger to incumbent Republican Bob Goodlatte, and just a twenty-something himself.

“Others just identify with the Democratic party,” said Parrish. “They are a dedicated bunch and are aware of the issues as any adult.”

Thompson to run NC Upper School

Current North Cross Upper School Director ing new friends as well,” said Thompson.

Timothy J. Seeley announced Monday that Mark Thompson holds a Bachelors degree in history W. Thompson has been selected unanimously by from Bates College in Lewiston, ME and a masan eight member search committee to take over ters degree in social studies education from Bosas the School’s new Upper School Director on July ton University in Boston, MA. 1.

He began his career at Trinity-Pawling Since 2005 Thompson has spent his School in Pawling, NY in 1991 as a hisNorth Cross days teaching middle school geography tory, economics, psychology, and politiand history at Hawaii Preparatory Acadcal science teacher after spending sevemy (HPA), a day and boarding school located eral summers working in the summer program in the town of Waimea on the beautiful island of at two Connecticut schools. From 1995 – 1997 Hawaii. This summer he and his family will move he worked as an economics and history teacher to Roanoke where he will take on his new posi- at The Webb Schools in Claremont, CA before tion as the Director of the Upper School at North starting in his position as an upper school history Cross School. teacher at HPA in 1997. He left the school in 2000 “I am very excited to have Mark join the North to work at Northfield Mount Hermon School Cross School faculty. He brings a broad range of in Northfield, MA from 2000 – 2004. There he experience directing both academic and student taught upper school history and economics in adlife programs at some very fine schools. In addi- dition to his responsibilities as a house director. tion, he has a great affection for young people and After a one-year position at Iolani School in Hoa desire to see them grow and thrive. He will bring nolulu, HI, Thompson returned to HPA in 2005. great energy and enthusiasm to the upper school An avid runner himself, Thompson has coached and help us to continue to develop new programs cross country and/or track and field at nearly evas well as build on the fine programs we already ery school at which he has taught. He and his wife provide,” said Seeley.

Carolyn have three children, Kaile (7), Tyler (2), “I am thrilled to be joining the NCS communi- and Spencer (1). Kaile will join next year’s first ty and becoming part of the vibrant North Cross grade class in the fall.

School community that provides students and North Cross School is a college-preparatory, families with so many unique academic, artistic, day school grounded in a strong liberal arts and and athletic opportunities,” said Thompson. science curriculum combined with exceptional “My family and I are happy to be a part of the co-curricular programs. The academic program, North Cross School community and Roanoke from junior kindergarten through twelfth grade, Valley. We look forward to the many education- prepares students to become responsible, successal, cultural and outdoor opportunities that the ful citizens by encouraging them to explore their School and region afford our three young chil- interests and develop their talents. The School is dren. We also look forward to reconnecting with located at 4254 Colonial Avenue, Roanoke, VA, friends and family in VA, NC, and MD, and mak- 24018.

[

Local Crossword Puzzle!

Across 1Roanoke's French sister city (7) 4Group of whales (4) 6A point travelling to infinity in only one direction (3) 7Local college in the wrong city? (7) 9a husbandman; a cultivator; or a plowman (6) 10Circles the zoo and has only had one accident (7) 11Those who do crosswords all the time (11) 14Fence of bushes (5) 16French flower (5) 17Cleopatra's slayer (3) 19The month after February (5) 20To separate metal from ore (7) 22It glows inside our city limits (4) 24The fourth month of the year (5) 25A new manner of thinking in order to protect our environment (5) 27It grows into another plant (4) 28Flexible tube (4) 31Tilt (4) 32The rays of the Sun (8) 33The organic process of bearing flowers (8) 34Perennial bulbous herbs having linear or broadly lanceolate leaves and usually a single showy flower (5)

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Smith Mt Lake Christian Academy

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By Don Waterfield 35To pour or shower down from above (4) 37Latest garden visitor to Roanoke and not always welcome (10) 39Mountain in our city limits (4) 40A horse known for stamina and versatility (7) 41Our late beloved elephant (10) 42Pagoda (6) Down 1Safe haven for teens Downtown (14) 2One of our famous neons (8) 3Manure (10)

5They swam in the basement of the Crystal Spring Building (8) 8Father of the US Navy (5) 12Our mountain range (12) 13A natural reason for Roanoke? (4) 15Library park (7) 16A poetic rhythm which imitates the rhythm of speech (6) 18Narcissus plants having yellow flowers with a trumpet-shaped central crown (8) 21First local flower of Spring (9)

23Animal bed (5) 26An implement used by the batter (8) 29A wind from the east (6) 30Search engine or the act of internet searching (6) 32Lawn rehydrator (9) 36What Virginia is for (6) 37A natural flow of ground water (6) 38Round root (4)

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

A prospective, rising third grade student en- becoming a selfless servant; Soaring like an eathusiastically answered the admissions inter- gle…having a mind for the Master; Developing view questions that Head of School, Deke An- the heart of a lion…becoming physically fit. drews posed to her. She, along with other K-6th Andrews is very thankful for the “outstanding graders, enrolled in Smith Mt. Lake Christian working board God has put together to guide Academy before the school even had confirmed this endeavor. Without their expertise, diligence its temporary location for the 2008 school year. and prayers this vision would never have come Each student, upon their acceptance to the to fruition so quickly.” Micah Gaudio, rebirthed school, receives a polished river rock and a re- this vision for a Christian school at the lake and minder that Jesus is our rock. It is upon the hired Andrews last fall to put the pieces together. principles of Christ this new school is beOther board members are Rachel Abrams, SMLCA ing founded. When they graduate their Gary Feazell, Maggie Gray, Jessica Morrock will be mounted into a stone wall, as gan, Rev. Bob Odom, Sharon Sicher, and a remembrance of the legacy they are leavKarl Vandegriff. ing behind at SMLCA. Teacher interviews began April 28th and stuThe permanent site for SMLCA will be in the dent interviews will continue to take place. ApLake Watch Community, along Route 122. The plications are available for download at www. school will open its doors this August as a K-6 smlacademy.com. school, leasing space from Halesford Baptist The excitement kicks off in June with the SMLChurch on the same road. This facility is perfect CA Summer Enrichment Series featuring classes for the school, with its convenient location, spa- in music, art, literature and fitness. The school cious classrooms, full size gymnasium and out- has every intention of taking advantage of where it is located - by a beautiful lake, in a breath takdoor ball field.

The Integrity Institute, a curriculum written ing mountain setting, filled with a loving and just for SMLCA, will start each day stressing the talented community and takes seriously it’s comimportance of character and morals, predicated mitment to the pursuit of academic, artistic and on Biblical truths. Students will learn the ben- athletic excellence. Each day they remember… efits of: Acquiring the eye of the tiger … becom- the wise man builds upon the rock. Mt. 7:24 ing academically acute; Being gentle as a lamb…

By Boo Andrews

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SchoolS

TheRoanokeStar.com

5/9/08 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 7

County drivers advance to state bus rodeo

Twenty-six school bus drivers with Roanoke County Public Schools competed in the annual Region 6 school bus rodeo, held May 3 at Hidden Valley Middle School. Drivers from Roanoke County, Roanoke City and Montgomery County competed in the event.

Each competitor undergoes two written tests to evaluate general knowledge and pre-trip inspection procedures and a series of nine practical events involving driving and maneuvering a school bus in certain conditions and sequences in addition to laws governing school bus operation. Those events included: • Railroad Crossing – Distance Skills and Laws Related to School Bus Crossing Tracks • Off-Set Alley - Driving Skills • Straight Line Event - Driving Skills A Judge checks the distance a driver parked from the curb.

• Diminishing Clearance Distance Skills the Virginia Association Pupil Driving Skills • Stop Line Event - Distance Transportation Conference.

• Student Pick-Up - VDOE Skills The Roanoke County Public Regulations, Distance Skills and The first place win- Schools winners were: Related Laws ners in each school Conventional Bus • Backing Alley County Schools division and catego1st Place - Greg Lampert Backing Skills ry (conventional bus, 2nd Place - Veronica Faz • Parallel Parking transit bus or special needs bus) 3rd Place - Jeff Lance Distance Skills move on to the state competition Transit Bus • Right Turn Event - Driving in June at Virginia Beach, during 1st Place - Marie Pratt

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Roanoke SPCA Helps Teach Kids to Care The Roanoke Valley SPCA is seeking businesses, civic groups, and individuals to help “adopt” elementary classrooms in the Roanoke Valley. The Adopt-a-Classroom program teaches elementary-school children to treat people, animals, and the environment with kindness and respect.

Each $30 tax-deductible contribution made to the Roanoke Valley SPCA (RVSPCA) for the Adopt-a-Classroom program provides a K-5 teacher and his or her class with a monthly subscription for one year to KIND News. This classroom newspaper is a fun, cross-curricular teaching tool that gets kids into the reading and writing habit, while encouraging good character in children with an emphasis on kindness to animals, respect for natural habitats, good citizenship and peaceful conflict resolution.

A subscription to KIND News includes nine monthly issues,

September through May. Each issue comes with 28 copies of the newspaper and a teacher’s guide. Teachers also receive KIND Teacher, a resource book of reproducible worksheets and other materials to reinforce lessons on responsible pet care, wildlife, and environmental stewardship.

Highly acclaimed by teachers, KIND News has received numerous awards for educational and editorial excellence, and is read by millions of students in thousands of classrooms throughout the nation. The Roanoke Valley SPCA hopes to provide this valuable character building educational tool to 2,800 students in Roanoke City, Botetourt and Roanoke County elementary schools. The cost to adopt a classroom is $30. With

135 elementary classrooms wanting to participate in the program, the cost will be over $4,000.

Donors may select a school, teacher, or class, from the list of classrooms waiting to be adopted to receive KIND News.

To make a contribution, or for more information about the Adopt-a-Classroom program, please visit the Roanoke Valley SPCA’s Web site www.rvspca. org, or contact Carolyn Schwanhausser, Director of Development at 540-344-4840 extension 211, email mail@rvspca.org.

To read more about KIND News, and the national AdoptA-Classroom program, go to www.kindnews.org. The Roanoke Valley SPCA is a limited admission-no kill facility. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, it relies solely on the generosity of the community for the funds necessary to operate the Adoption & Education Center.

More than 5,000 graduates to be honored May 9 at Virginia Tech’s 136th commencement

Virginia Tech will hold its 136th spondent and Virginia Tech alumUniversity Commencement cer- nus Pierre Thomas, will speak to emonies at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, the approximately 300 Northern May 9, in Lane Stadium/Worsham Capital Region graduates.

Field. NBC News anchor and corVirginia Tech President Charles respondent and Virginia Tech W. Steger will preside over the two alumna Hoda Kotb will deliver the Blacksburg ceremonies. Univerkeynote address to approximately sity Provost Mark McNamee will 25 associate’s degree candidates lead the National Capital Region and 3,281 bachelor’s degree candi- event. dates will be honored.

Kotb was named co-anchor of Individual college and depart- the fourth hour of “Today” in Aumental convocation ceremonies gust 2007. She has been a “Dateline will be held throughout the day on NBC” correspondent since April Saturday, May 10.

1998 and the host of the Virginia Tech Tae-sik Lee, the Reweekly syndicated series public of Korea (South “Your Total Health” since Korea) ambassador to the United September 2004. In her nine years States, will address graduate and at NBC, Kotb has covered a variprofessional degree candidates at ety of domestic and international the Graduate Commencement stories. Most recently, she covered ceremony that same day, at 3 p.m. the aftermath and one-year anniat Cassell Coliseum. versary of Hurricane Katrina. In Approximately 1,183 students addition, she has reported on the will be honored at that ceremony: war in Iraq, the conflict between 963 master’s degree candidates, 11 the Israelis and Palestinians in the education specialist degree can- West Bank and Gaza, and the War didates, 13 Ed.D. candidates, and on Terror in Afghanistan.

196 Ph.D. candidates. In addition, Lee is a career diplomat whose Virginia-Maryland Regional Col- service for his country covers lege of Veterinary Medicine will four decades and four contibe represented by 89 Doctor of nents. He served in various locaVeterinary Medicine (DVM) de- tions around the globe including gree candidates.

Liberia, the Philippines, Austria, Virginia Tech’s 28th Northern Yugoslavia, and the European Virginia Center commencement Union. He has also held several ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. senior-level positions throughSunday, May 11, at the George out the Korean government, inMason University Center for the cluding director-general of the Arts in Fairfax, Va. ABC News International Trade Bureau at Senior Justice Department Corre- the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

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and deputy executive director of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization.

A native of Amherst County, Va., Thomas covers the Justice Department for ABC News.

He joined the network in November 2000 and reports for “World News with Charles Gibson,” “Good Morning America,” “Nightline,” and other ABC News programs. He was a key member of ABC’s team of correspondents covering the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, and he continues to report on all aspects of the aftermath of those attacks. The network’s coverage of the Sept. 11 tragedy was widely recognized for its excellence, winning the prestigious Peabody and Alfred I. duPontColumbia University Awards, and an Emmy Award.

Each May, approximately 5,000 Virginia Tech undergraduate, graduate, and professional students are expected to complete their degree requirements and participate in commencement ceremonies. Approximately 15,000 to 20,000 family members and guests travel to Blacksburg to join graduating students.

Should inclement weather be a factor for Friday’s ceremony in Lane Stadium, call the university Weather Line at (540) 231-6668 or check the university homepage.

(540) 982-6983

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ROANOKE, VA 24011 • WWW.ALEXANDERSINFO.COM

White’s Automotive Service State Inspections

John L. Huffman (540) 362-3307

3034 Wentworth Ave., N.W. Roanoke, VA 24012 Photo courtesy Roanoke County Schools

2nd Place - Joe Dudley 3rd Place - Tim Ferguson Special Needs Bus 1st Place - Driver - Linda Turner 1st Place - Aide - Becky Holt

2415 jefferson st, s.w. roanoke, virginia 24014

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guy w. byrd, jr. insurance advisor and travel consultant

540.989.1990 phone 540. 989.1990 fax guy24014@cox.net

Discover Your Money Discover how my 25 years as an investment professional can help you achieve your financial goals and successfully plan for the future.

Service • Advice • Performance Suzanne Osborne, CFP® CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM professional 3959 Electric Road, Suite 325 Roanoke, VA 24018 540-774-7688 or 800-774-1997 Securities offered through Multi-Financial Securities Corp. Member NASD/SIPC.

Do you have a plan for your land?

If you’re a landowner with 100 acres of land or more, join the Western Virginia Land Trust and Roanoke County to learn how you can: UÊ ii«Ê > `Ê Ì>VÌÊ> `Ê ÊÞ ÕÀÊv> Þ UÊ iÌÊ iÞÊvÀ ÊÞ ÕÀÊ > `ÊÜ Ì ÕÌÊÃi }Ê Ì UÊ ÃÕÀiÊÌ >ÌÊÞ ÕÀÊ > `ÊÜ ÊÀi > Ê>ÃÊ you want it to be—forever.

Meeting dates: Thursday, May 15, 7-8:30 pm, Catawba Center Thursday, May 22, 7-8:30 pm, Mt. Pleasant Fire Station Thursday, May 29, 7-8:30 pm, Back Creek Elem. School

There is no charge or obligation. Everyone will receive a free copy of the Western Virginia Land Trust’s Conservation Easement Guide and FREE DVD. Refreshments will be served. For more info and additional dates, contact the Western Virginia Land Trust at (540) 985-0000 or visit www.westernvirginialandtrust.org

Hey Coach!

Does your rec squad have good news that needs to be shared?

We want to help tell the Valley.

Email photos and stories to: submissions@theroanokestar.com

Sports

Page 8 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/9/08

Nymeyer signs with Southern Wesleyn

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TheRoanokeStar.com

Strong Alleghany team steals one from Northside’s home diamond 7-3

Photo by Bill Turner

Christina Nymeyer signs to play basketball for Southern Wesleyan University. With her are at the table are: Faith Christian Headmaster Sam Cox, Christina’s mother Darlene and father Leonard.

Standing are Head Girls Basketball Coach Pat Wolfe, her sister Rachel and former Faith Christian Athletic Director Leon Caldwell.

Christina Nymeyer received the first sports scholarship offered to a Faith Christian School Student last week when she signed a letter of intent to play for Southern Wesleyan University.

Since Nymeyer arrival at Faith, the team’s two season record is 42-9. During the 2006-2007 season, she was the team’s co-captain and led the Faith Christian Warriors Girls’ Team (19-5 / 10-0) to a Regular Season Title and VACA South Region Championship.

In the 2007-2008 season, she

was the team’s captain and led the Warriors (23-4 / 9-0) to a Regular Season Title, VACA South Region Championship, and to their first VACA State Championship title.

This year, Christina led the team in free throw shooting percentage (70%), points per game (11.3), assists per game (2.67), steals per game (3.67), and was named Most Valuable Player for the second straight year.

List of Award Nymeyer has received: 2006-2007 Faith Christian

School Most Valuable Player 2007 VACA South Most Outstanding Player 2007-2008 Faith Christian School Most Valuable Player 2007-2008 VACA South Region Tournament Most Valuable Player 2008 VACA South Region All Conference Player of the Year 2008 VACA State All-Tournament Team 2008 NACA All-Tournament Team

Lady Norsemen three-peat at Cosmo

Three-peat. It’s a great accomplishment in any sport and in any tournament. The Northside Middle School Lady Norsemen have joined these elite ranks by winning their third straight Cosmopolitan Relays, held Friday, April 25, and Saturday, April 26 at Roanoke College and Salem High School. The 43rd Cosmopolitan Relays are open to the elite track and field athletes from area high and middle schools. Each school is eligible to submit their top three

performers for each track and field event. This year there were 14 schools participating in the middle school division. Each event had a total of 42 of the best athletes competing against each other in an effort to win the overall championship for their school. The top eight athletes in each event participated in the final held Saturday. The top six in each event scored points for their team.

No female team had ever won the relays for three consecu-

tive years. Only one male middle school team had ever won the relays for three consecutive years. That team was the Norsemen from Northside Middle School. The Lady Norsemen came out strong on Friday and remained dominant throughout the running events to overpower the other 13 teams to win their third straight Cosmopolitan Relays.

The Lady Norsemen team has not lost a regular season track meet since April 2004.

Photo by David Abraham

An Alleghany Mountaineer slides in under a tag during the Mountaineer 7-3 win.

The Alleghany Mountaineers brought their 12-1 record to Clyde H. Strutt Memorial Field at Northside last Friday and showed why they have only tasted defeat once. Timely hitting, solid defense, and the strong arm of lefthander Ryan Kessinger proved too much for the Vikings as Alleghany came away with a 7-3 victory.

On a warm and sunny evening, Alleghany wasted no time in getting on the board as the first four hitters reached base on two walks and two hits. Three of those runners scored staking the Mountaineers to an early 3-0 lead before Northside came to bat in the bottom of the first.

The Vikings managed to get one of the runs back in the bottom of the frame when Aaron Divers doubled and scored on a single

by Daniel Motes. A double play ended the inning, the first of three double plays turned in by

the Mountaineer defense.

The Mountaineers threatened again in the second inning when some stellar defense by Northside killed their rally. With one out and Josh Jordan on first, Kessinger sent a ringing double to left center. Jordan, trying to score, was cut down at the plate on a spectacular relay throw from Divers to catcher Roger Ingraham. The senior then alertly saw Kessinger trying to take third on the throw to the plate and he was erased in a run down.

Kessinger kept the Viking hitters off balance all day scattering seven hits over 6 1/3 innings while striking three and walking three. Two of those three walks came in the bottom of the 7th inning when he began to tire and with two on and one out. Josh Taylor was then summoned from second base to relieve Kessinger.

Ingraham then lined into a double play ending the contest.

The game was close until the 7th inning when Alleghany broke it open with three runs.

Matt Herron entered the game in the third inning in relief of starter Matt Slough and struck out the side with bases loaded and no one out. He was able to hold the Mountaineers from doing any significant damage and putting the game out of reach over the next four innings. During his stint he allowed only one run, two hits and at one point set down nine Alleghany batters in a row.

Coach Ed Culicerto’s Vikings ( 10-5) return to action Friday as they travel to Lord Botetourt to take on the Cavalier’s. A return date with Alleghany awaits Northside as they travel to meet the Mountaineers on Tuesday May 13th.

By David Abraham info@theroanokestar.com

5/9/08 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 9

TheRoanokeStar.com

Sports

North Cross School

Girls Soccer – The Lady Raiders won their Quarterfinal Blue Ridge Conference game 3-0 against Chatham Hall. Hallie Martin scored 2 goals and Anna Black added one as they advance to the semi finals against either VES or Lynchburg Christian Academy.

Goalkeeper Elizabeth Stoeckle had her fifth shut-out of the season. Third seeded North Cross is hoping to have VES win as that would give them another home game. If second seed LCA wins then North Cross will be on the road.

Faith Christian

Boys Soccer – The Warriors move to 5-4 on the season with victories over Timberlake Christian 5-2 and New Covenant School 7-0. In the Timberlake win Mark Strelow had a hat trick and in the New Covenant game Faith Christian had first goals of the season by four players including Mark’s brother Bryan, Joseph Katt, Michael Moorman and Sam McSherry.

Girls Soccer – The Lady Warriors ended their season with a win over Timberlake Christian 4-0. Faith Christian was led by Jane Brandon with 2 goals, Melissa Pollard with one goal and Laura Jordan scoring her first goal of the season. The girls finished the season with a 6-7 record.

Art Show at the Rescue Mission Celebrates Changed Lives

The Third Annual Permanent Art Collection Competition at The Roanoke Rescue Mission included 32 Roanoke and New River Valley works of art selected as Finalists. Seven winners, including a “People’s Choice” Award were selected

by Mission Shelter guests and announced on Sunday, May 4.

56 pieces were entered by 28 artists “The Permanent Collection Competition extends the Rescue Mission’s efforts to change lives,” says Development Director Lee Clark. “Daily, the Rescue Mission’s Art Therapy Studio utilizes the creative process of art to help people resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress and pain, increase self-esteem and self-awareness and achieve insight. The Permanent Collection Competition takes this a step further by involving local artists and their creative process with the Rescue Mission’s programs.”

AWARDS: • Susan V. Lockwood, Photography, “Avignon Door: Papal Palace”, 2nd Time Permanent Collection Winner • Lee Penny Baker, Mixed

Media, “Clarinet in Conversation” • Rachelle Kuehl, Watercolor, “Albert’s Goat” • Leslye Bloom, Computage with Hand Encaustic, “Next Level” • Charlotte McPherson, B&W Photography – SepiaToned, “End of Duck Season” People’s Choice Award: John Burrows, Digital Photography, “Gear Down” • Sally Mook, Acrylic, “Monkey with Attitude”, 3rd Time Permanent Collection Winner Leslye Bloom is one of the originators of the Permanent Collection Competition three years ago. This is her first award from the show. Colin Doughty (potter) is a graduate of the Rescue Mission’s Recovery Program and is the first graduate to have his art for sale at Art on a Mission at Tanglewood Mall. Musicians Laura Gustad is a 3rd grader at Crystal Spring Elementary and Anna Gustad is a 6th grader at James Madison Middle School.

Sponsored jointly by The League of Roanoke Artists, The Blacksburg Arts Association and The Rescue Mission, The Permanent Collection Competition provides a unique opportunity for local artist’s work

By William Davidson he original proclamation that inspired the national holiday of Mother’s Day was Julia Ward Howe’s call to the women of the world in 1870 to unite for peace.

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Arise then...women of this day!

Arise, all women who have hearts!

Whether your baptism be of water or of tears!

From the voice of a devastated Earth a voice goes up with Our own. It says: “Disarm! Disarm!”

As men have often forsaken the plough and the anvil At the summons of war, Let women now leave all that may be left of home For a great and earnest day of counsel.

Let them meet first, as women, to bewail and commemorate the dead.

Let them solemnly take counsel with each other as to the means Whereby the great human family can live in peace... http://www.peace.ca/mothersdayproclamation.htm You may recognize the name “Julia Ward Howe” as the author of the Battle Hymn of the Republic. Her witness, inspired in part by the founder of Mother’s Day Anna Jarvis, was in turn a continuation of the legacy of Anna’s mother who sought to care for soldiers and unite families on both sides of the Civil War. This unique history of a longing for peace resulted in the setting of the national holiday in 1914, a holiday first celebrated at the Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton,Virginia in May 1907.

What is peace? Is it the absence of war? Certainly those of us who have young men and women in the military today as well as the residents of Iraq and Afghanistan long for this. But it is more than that. Is it contentment? Certainly it is more than a psychological state of mind or an emotion. It is much deeper than this. Is it a feeling of well-being, security, or safety? It is so much more than a feeling, for feelings are so fickle and so dependent upon circumstances.

The peace humanity’s religious traditions proclaim is so much deeper. This peace doesn’t come from the world, from our everyday experience with the fleeting moment of this-world security. It is peace the Bible describes like this: Like an eagle teaching it’s young to fly, catching them safely on its spreading wings, the Lord kept Israel from falling.

Isaiah 49:1b As an eagle stirs up its nest, and hovers over its young; as it spreads its wings, takes them up, and bears them along on its pinions, the LORD alone (guides us). Deuteronomy 32:11-12a So the Lord answers, ‘Can a woman forget her own baby and not love the child she bore?…Jerusalem, I can never forget you! I have written your name on the palms of my hands.’

Isaiah 49:15-16 As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you. Isaiah 66:13a

to be enjoyed and appreciated by homeless families. All work submitted to the Permanent Collection Competition was independently judged by Ted

Batt, Exhibitions Curator for the Academy of Fine Arts in Lynchburg. The exhibit continues through June 5, 2008. For more information on how art

enriches lives for families in crisis at the Rescue Mission, call 540-777-7687.

Classifieds

Preacher’s corner Mother’s Day, a call to peace

Photo courtesy Roanoke Rescue Mission

Sisters Laura and Anna Gustad play violin during the Rescue Mission’s annual art competition.

> Found Money - Rosalind Ave / South Roanoke Area - Call to Claim: 342-7583 (After 5:00) > Real Estate Myrtle Beach Condo for Sale Beautiful 2 bedroom/2 bath condo in Kingston Plantation. Lake front and ocean view. Great for family and golfing vacations.Tremendous rental opportunities. $350,000. Call 989-9168 after 6pm. > Church Yard Sale Fourth Annual Christ Episcopal Church Yard Sale. 110 Franklin RD SW (Old Southwest). Saturday May 10, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm (no early birds, please).Toys, clothes, home furnishings, and more. Proceeds benefit church youth activities.

343-0159.

CHURCH FLEA MARKET May 10th Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, 30 Huntington Blvd. at Williamson Rd, NE, 7am-2pm; Christmas, household, clothing priced to go! Baklava, baked goodies & cookbooks, too!

Rain or Shine! 362-3601 > Wanted Baseball and other sports cards and items from 1870 to 1975. Tobacco, Candy and early gum cards especially wanted. (540) 977-5222 4/25-5/23

> Businesses Opportunities Convenience Stores. Two to choose from; locations Salem & Alleghany Highlands. Call 540-992-4156

RESTAURANT, Salem loca- in Box - $150.00 540-977-5222 after tion, profitable, excellent equip- 3 p.m. ment and clientele, good lease. Call Ad ID 10851992 540-992-4156 Fishing Equipment - Bamboo Poles and Old Reels $125 - 540-977-5222 > Misc after 3 p.m.

Portable Air Conditioner Royal Soverign Portable Air Conditioner for sale, $100.00. No venting necessary, 1 yr old. Call 1.540.808.2206.

NordicTrack Nordic Track “900” commercial grade ski machine (foot cups slide over stationary slats). Lightly used. Asking $600, vs. original cost of $1,900. Call Guy at 989-1990.

Firewood For Sale - $100 Pickup Load - 540-977-5222 after 3 p.m.

> Cool Cheap Stuff

Pokemon Collectibles in Containers - $5.00 Each - 540-977-5222 after 3 p.m.

Cool Cheap Stuff Place your ad in Cool Cheap Stuff, for items costing $150 or less, free!

Ads are published for 1 week. If item doesn’t sell feel free to run it again!

Cool Cheap Stuff is available to private individuals who advertise one item costing $150 or less. Cost of item and telephone number must appear in ad copy. First 10 words are free. Additional 10 words are $5.00.

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

Windsheild Honda windshield $150 for sale342-2083 For Sale 540-977-5222 After 3:00PM Daily Schwinn Matching His and Hers BikesSporters Model $80 - 540-977-5222 Go-Cart Frame - Very Large - $50 540-977-5222 after 3 p.m.

Christmas House Collection - New

Trailer for Sale - Needs Hitch - $150 - 540-977-5222 after 3 p.m.

Camaro Hood - $50 540-977-5222 Japanese Animation VHS - Large Assortment - $3.00 Each - 540-977-5222 after 3 p.m.

Knitting Machines,Thread, Instruction Booklets and Much More in Box - All For $20.00 - 540-977-5222 after 3 p.m.

Water Cooler For Shop or Office $75 - 540-977-5222 after 3 p.m.

Antique Window Frames From Old Home - $20 Each - 540-977-5222 after 3 p.m.

Call us right away!

Call Deborah, 776-3087

Date 04/30/2008

Does your grade school child Need a teacher-tutor to Help them stay on track?

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

Shop “Buy the Season”.

Emily,Vendor 1806, 725-1464, emilym@cox.net Belize vacation deliver school supplies do a good deed cheap contact Gary at 342-2083 turtle-guy@att.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

Bows For Sale - Call For Information $50 Each - 540-977-5222 after 3 p.m. > Haiku ads 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?

Learn it from a Taiwanese.

Calendar > May 8

Lunch ‘N’ Learn: E-Marketing Want to learn some E-Marketing strategies? Join the Roanoke Regional Small Business Development Center to learn how to get results using online surveys and email.When- Noon -1p.m.

Where-Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce Boardroom.

That’s peace!

Cost- FREE. For so many of us our first awareness of the love of God is experi- For more- to register, contact enced in our mother’s love. Long before we are ever able to under- Taryn at 983.0717 ext. 239 stand who God is we experience God’s love in the love of mother.

We learn very early what is ultimately important in life: comfort, Pedal and Paddle security, safety, and provision which mother provides.

Pedal and paddle ride combines Our religious traditions confirm that God is the source of peace. boating and bicycling. Secure your It is no mistake that scripture makes reference after reference to bike at the 13th Street Waste WaGod as a mother, for it is in that primary relationship of mother and ter Treatment Plant parking lot. child that so very much of our early awareness of the true source Put your boat in the water under of peace arises. the I 581bridge span over the RoaAs a child lies quietly in its mother’s arms, so my heart is quiet within noke River Greenway. me. Israel, trust in the Lord now and forever. Psalm 131:2b-3 When- 6:30 p.m.

You will be carried like a child that is nursed by its mother, carried in her Where- Under I-581 Bridge Roaarms and treated with love. I will comfort you in Jerusalem as a mother noke River Greenway comforts her child. Isaiah 66:12b-13a For more- Call Barbara Duerk at This peace is so much more than the absence of war, or a psycho- 540-343-1616; 540-580-1621 or elogical state of mind, or even a feeling of well-being. Peace is a gift of mail at barbgary@cox.net God. It is a gift granted freely to those who need it most. It is a gift that is granted in order to share it with others.

William G. Davidson is the Senior Pastor of South Roanoke > May 9 United Methodist Church. He may be reached at revwgd@ Pedal and Paddle Pedal and Paddle ride combines srumc.com boating and bicycling. Secure your bike at the Salem Rotary 419 RR

Wayside. Put your boat in the water at the Greenhill park RR parking lot. Paddle to the Salem Rotary 419 RR Wayside. Pedal your bicycle to Greenhill Park. Drive your car to pick up your canoe.

When- 6:30 p.m.

Where-Greenhill Park RR parking lot For more- Contact Barbara Duerk at 540) 343-1616; 540-580-1621 or barbgary@cox.net My Name is Belle Documentary Film Screening Series to celebrate Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month Presents an autobiographical snapshot of the immigrant experience through the eyes of a 7-year-old child. Belle Yang, artist and writer, uses herself as the model for the fictional pig-tailed girl named Hannah who arrives from Taiwan. Belle, as Hannah, faces change and loneliness - the difficulty of learning a new language, a new culture, even a new name, and of living with tension while waiting for green cards, longing to be citizens.

When- 10:00 - 10:30 a.m.

Where- Williamson Road Branch Library For more- 540-853-1057

> May 10

Raising Event Carilion Clinic’s Gallop 4 the The Heart of Virginia is holding another Music For Mental Health Greenways Our evening race & walk are fol- Fund Raising Event on May 10thlowed by the best post race party Performances by The Ben Hurt in the Valley -- sponsored by No- Band, Jordan Rivers and the Rotgut vozymes and SyCom Technologies. Revival, The Andy Hollander Band, MonkeyFuzz is performing and and The Tommy Edwards Band. several area restaurants are pro- When- 9 p.m. viding a catered meal free to our Where- the Coffee Pot participants. Additional meal tick- Cost- $5 ets will be available for sale.

Pedal and Paddle When- 5 p.m.

Pedal and Paddle ridecombines Where- Elmwood Park boating and bicycling. Secure your Cost- Registration is required bike seat Wasena Park “Beach”. and can de done at www.gal- Put your boat in the water at the lop4thegreenways.com, You can Salem Rotary RR Wayside. Paddle Ad shown is Park. notPedal actual prin register online through Thursday, to Wasena to Salem to May 8. After that, registrations will pick up your car. Drive to Wasena be accepted at packet pick up -- to retrieve your boat. $35 for individuals, $50 for a par- When- 10 a.m. ent with a child under 16.

Where- Salem Rotary 419 RR Wayside Wildflower Sale For more- Contact Barbara DuAmong the many species offered erk (540) 343-1616; 540-580-1621, will be trillium, trailing arbutus, barbgary@cox.net birdfoot violets, cardinal flower and dwarf crested iris.

Have an item for the calenWhen- 9 a.m. - Noon. dar? email it to submissions@ Where- VWCC, It will be held in theroanokestar.com the parking lot behind the greenhouse above the Arboretum.

Music for Mental Health Fund

Page 10 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/9/08

TheRoanokeStar.com

T

TheRoanokeStar.com

A Great Day of Festivals!

R

oanokers came out in droves last Saturday for a variety of traditional Spring Festivities.

The day started early for many as the Kiwanis Club of Roanoke hosted its annual pancake breakfast fundraiser in support of their efforts to supply assistance to over 25 other service organizations throughout the Valley. In addition to the bantering in the “flipping tent” (carried on by Ray Correiea, Bart Wilner, Martha Sowers, George Mathews, John and Diane D’Rrozio, John Christopher, Alex Bowman and others) there was lively action throughout the Civic Center Exhibit Hall as breakfast was

served complete with a four stage silent auction and music provided by members of “Grass Monkey” and “Easy Picken’s.”

As the Pancake Breakfast came to a close both the Virginia State Chili Cookoff and the Community School Strawberry Festival swung into action.

Chili cooks from across the United States converged on downtown to show off their culinary skill and seasoning acumen. The ingredients were wild and varied (and mostly secret) but the wonderful smell of beef, beans and peppers filled the air - as did the laughter of children playing, dancing, sliding and doing crafts. Mel Fletcher of Cheat Bridge,

WV received the Star-Sentinel’s award for “Best in Show,” narrowly edging out the WDBJ7 team of chili masters and the locally renowned Harley Davidson club who always produce a fine “bowl with.”

Music and entertainment was provided by a variety of entertainers.

The Community School Strawberry festival was also a big hit as Roanokers flocked by the thousands to sample strawberry dishes of all kinds. The standard strawberry shortcake and whip cream seemed to be the crowd favorite with slushies running a close second, as the afternoon grew warmer. Children danced on the stage and families lounged

5/9/08 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 11

in the cool green grass beneath the trees as a variety of musicians entertained the crowds throughout the day. Community School Development Director Carissa Smith said that last year’s festival raised over $63,000 and that they were on a pace to easily surpass that this year.

If the joy and laughter shared throughout the day at these three events are any indication of the health of the greater Roanoke Valley then maybe the results of Tuesday’s election aren’t quite as important as anybody really thought they were.

We are a blessed Valley indeed.

Page 12 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/9/08

TheRoanokeStar.com

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