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The Roanoke Star-Sentinel Community | News | Per spective

August 13 - August 19, 2010

Roanoke Valley News Roundup:

Stephanie Koehler

Teacher Power P4–Stephanie Koehler reminds us that few people impact our lives like a caring and committed teacher.

Spanky in Trouble: Western District United States Attorney Tim Heaphy laid out his case against Roanoke businessman Roland “Spanky” Macher on Tuesday, charging the well known restaurateur (Spanky’s, Star City Diner), landlord and former towing company operator with bankruptcy fraud and tax evasion.

Specifically, Heaphy has charged Macher with not disclosing certain properties he owned before declaring bankruptcy in 2000. On August 5th, a federal grand jury charged Macher with cheating the IRS and the U.S. Bankruptcy Court out of money.

He has also been assessed more than $275,000 in unpaid taxes.

Macher’s attorney, Paul Dull, said his client’s initial bankruptcy filing, dating back to Valley News 2000, had several errors because of the sheer amount of Macher’s assets. Federal law requires all assets to be listed as part of a “schedule” in bankruptcy filings. Dull said Macher’s errors of leaving off several local rental properties from his schedule were an accident and unintended. Dull also said the federal statute of limitations to charge Macher on several of the crimes had already run out.

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Journey of Hope P6–Bike riders travel across America to bring their special brand of love and compassion to Downs Syndrome children.

]

> CONTINUED P2:Valley

P7–Cave Spring uses balanced scoring as the Knights captured the 24-team Heritage Invitational Tournamnent.

First Ever Photos

P7–Ed Hamilton’s first ever exhibit will benefit the United Way of Roanoke Valley while showcasing his unique talent.

State of the City Still Has “Big Mac” in It’s Future

Every summer the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce hosts the Annual State of the City address. This year’s breakfast was again held Thursday at the Sheraton Roanoke Hotel and Conference Center on Hershberger Road.

Mayor David Bowers looked back over his prior two years of speeches in preparing for 2010’s State of the City address.

“In 2008 I was able to assure you that the ‘soap opera’ at Roanoke City Council was over … I’m pleased to tell you, we’ve achieved that,” said Bowers.

He praised Court Rosen’s bold suggestion to increase the meals tax. “Roanoke now has positive momentum in turning our inner city schools City Council into one of the premier school systems in Virginia … this additional revenue source from you, our citizens … will provide the needed financial basis for continued success Photo by Bill Turner STROKE CASES and INCREASE improvementSIGNIFICANTL in our city There are lots of ways to beat the heat and humidity that has settled in thick over the Valley schools. ” OVER 12-MONTH PERI during the last week. The best way, of course, is to make a hasty retreat inside to the comfort Bowers thanked School Board of air conditioning. Air conditioning was actually used in Ancient Rome, where aqueduct Chairman Dave Carson and water was circulated through the walls of some houses to cool them down. Modern air conSuperintendent Ritatreat Bishop forstro Hospital hopes to identify and more ditioning emerged from advances in chemistry during the 19th century, and the first largetheir leadership, emphasizing scale electrical air conditioning system was invented and used in 1902 by Willis Haviland the school’s accomplishments.

Carrier. (Thank you Willis!) But good old AC isn’t an option for football players and outdoor workers, so staying hydrated is the name of the game. Above, Evan DiLauro a defensive As Carilion Clinicback celebrates a Gold Seal of Approval from > CONTINUED for Patrick Henry High School takes a long cold drink of crystal clear water. “Ahhhh . . . “ P2: Big Mac Stroke Centers at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital (CR

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One day after most neighborhood groups in Roanoke observed National Night Out, the city was demonstrating its commitment to community policing once again by allowing citizens to tour the Police Department’s Mobile Command Unit.

Roanoke police parked the recreational vehicle-turnedcommunications center outside Fire Station # 3 on Williamson Road, and laid out all sorts of information for those that stopped by. Many of the pamphlets highlighted what homePhoto by Gene Marrano owners and renters could do to Roanoke City’s State of the Art Mobile Command Unit. prevent burglaries and vehicle toddler Avion Lewis last year.

One of the more successful theft.

The mobile unit also provides community programs offered “Start by locking the doors if you’re not home and not leav- shelter from the cold and rain by Roanoke City police in reing the keys in your car,” said if officers in the field need a cent years are VIN etching sesDetective Allen Williams, who respite. “A little bit of a refuge,” sions that allow officers to add a vehicle identification number also investigates arson cases for said Williams.

During the Christmas holi- in additional places to make the city. Leaving doors open and unlocked is “just an easy day season it has been used as vehicle theft more difficult. It’s a command post in the parking hard to sell a stolen car or chop invitation” to a lot at Valley View it up for parts if it can be traced, criminal. “Don’t Mall. Once hooked said Det. Jimmy Price, who Crime Prevention make it easy,” Wilup to a phone /in- works auto theft cases for the liams notes. As ternet line, dispatchers can send city. For a city its size, Roanoke for the mobile command post, units out on calls, they can re- has a fairly large problem when Williams said they use it “where ceive calls, send faxes, e-mails, it comes to auto theft accordwe have a tactical need for it.”

That includes the scene of etc. “It gives us somewhere we ing to Price, who had literature major fires, where it becomes can have a meeting room,” said available about VIN etching in a communications center. Roa- Williams. Not to mention a noke police also used the mo- commanding presence when > CONTINUED bile unit when searching for parked in a neighborhood or P2: Police mall parking lot.

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NewsRoanoke.com

The Dog Days Are Here!

Roanoke Police Demonstrate Their Crime Fighting Mobility Knights Prevail

POSTMASTER: Dated material, please deliver by publication date

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treated has almost doubled in the past 12 months. In June

Stroke Cases Increase Significantly At Carilion Over 12-Month Period

stroke patients. In June 2010, the number of stroke patient

the past 12 months. June capped a 12-month period that s beginning last December.

Date

Cases

Date

Cases

June 2009

47

January 2010

58

July

43

February

54

August

48

March

65

September

56

April

70

October

40

May

69

November

36

June

80

December

71

As Carilion Clinic cel- Carilion Clinic Neurologist “We don’t thinkSeal thisof means a lot Mallenbaum, more people are sudd ebrates a “Gold Ap- that Sidney M.D., proval” The Joint Com- Mallenbaum, medical director the stroke Clinic from Neurologist Sidney M.D.,ofmedical direc mission for Primary Stroke unit. “Rather, we’ve been able been able to identify more strokes, andmore get people for tre Centers at Carilion Roanoke to identify strokes,inand Memorial Hospital (CRMH), get people in for treatment treatable.” the number of patients being while the stroke is still treattreated has almostClinic doubled inbeen able. ” Carilion has working towards improved s the past 12 months.

Carilion Clinic has been starting with CRMH the “Know the Five” campaign for improved heart attack working towards In June 2009, treated stroke care several months, 43educating emergencythe stroke patients. public about the signs offor stroke and encoura starting with the In June 2010, the treatment options at“Know Carilion theClinic Five”inclu number of quickly. stroke Treatment Healthcare campaign for heart patients jumped attack and stroke, to 80 - the highest level in the past 12 months. (www.knowthefive.com), edJune capped a 12-month pe- ucating the public about the riod that saw a significant in- signs of stroke and encouragcrease in cases, beginning last ing people to seek emergency treatment quickly. Treatment December.

“We don’t think this means that a lot more people are sud- > CONTINUED denly having strokes”, said P3: Stroke

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Page 2 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 8/13/10 - 8/19/10

> Big Mac Showers and storms are possible on Friday with temperatures in the low 90s. Humidity will remain in place for the weekend and a cold front will be close to us as well. That will give us showers and storms both Saturday and Sunday with temperatures cooler. Highs will top out in the upper 80s.

Showers and storms remain in the forecast for Monday with highs near 90.

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the magnitude of the project, not vice-versa.”

“The Market Building is the one of the three that is underway. I have not always been impressed with City maintenance of it, nor have I felt that we’ve done right by the tenants that have faithfully occupied that building. No wonder the mice were running through there a couple of years ago,” said Bowers. In nine months he wants to get the current tenants back in the building and have it “once again the ‘gem’ of downtown.”

As to the other two projects of the “Big Mac” Bowers remarked that: “Vice-Mayor Dave Trinkle has been the leading advocate for a downtown amphitheater, and we were right on the verge of getting that project underway. Roanoke City Council wisely decided to pull back on the project at the behest of our Director of Finance in order to maintain our bond rating. It was a tough, but correct decision at the time. But, now let’s see if we can re-start that amphitheater discussion.”

“Likewise, the third project in ‘Big Mac,’ Countryside has been an ongoing problem for the City for some time, going years back before I became Mayor. I’m determined to see that something good is done out there. It’s still my thought that our best option is to turn Countryside into a municipal golf, tennis and swim center. If other members of Council or other citizens have other ideas in mind, then put them on the table. But, it is not right for the people of the Countryside neighborhood to wait in limbo for another decade.

Countryside should not be another Victory Stadium debacle that lingers on and lingers on and lingers on. ‘We’ need to get it done.”

“My challenge to the council regarding our ‘Big Mac’ capital improvement program is that we’ve got one down and two to go.

In just the next 18 months Roanoke City Council should make a decision to move forward on the amphitheater and on plans for Countryside, which are acceptable to the neighborhood. The clock is ticking!”

Bowers thanked the representatives of numerous groups and associations including: the Clean and Green group and the Cool Cities environmental advocacy group, Pearl Fu representing Local Colors, Jack Tompkins representing Sister Cities, the Old Southwest Neighborhood group (named a “#1 in America”), and Estelle McCadden who was named National Neighborhood Leader of the Year.

“We are Roanoke - a spectacular, one-of-a-kind, all-American, great place to live, work and visit . . . Roanoke is a Star!,” exclaimed Bowers.

By Valerie Garner info@newsroanoke.com

From page 1

Macher notified the government of several errors more than six years ago, said Dull, meaning the statute of limitations had expired.

Macher is due in court for his formal arraignment this Friday at 10 a.m. on his five-count indictment. If convicted he faces more than 25 years in prison and fines of $1 million or more.

At Tuesday’s news conference, Heaphy praised the new bankruptcy “multi-agency task force,” that helped collect evidence leading to the grand jury indictment against Macher, who was arrested

by IRS and FBI agents. “Mr. Macher failed to truthfully report the amount of equity he controlled in a number of rental properties in Roanoke,” said Heaphy, “and failed to disclose that he had any interest in several properties in Hilton Head, South Carolina.”

That, said Heaphy, constituted bankruptcy fraud. Macher is also alleged to have sold properties during the bankruptcy proceedings without seeking permission first, as was required. “Our message today is clear,” said Heaphy, “to all those individuals who are tempted to lie when filing for bankruptcy, think twice – don’t do it.”

Slate Hill / South Peak to move forward? Developer James R. Smith says he’s finally ready to get the ball rolling on developing the 62 acre site once known as Slate Hill, near the intersection of Route 419 and Route 220. “This could be a billion dollar development over time,” said Smith, who is now calling the project South Peak, where he says he’s already received firm offers from a hotel and two restaurants to be part of the project.

He’s been working with Roanoke County attorney Paul Mahoney to create a Community Development Authority, or CDA, for the project. The CDA will sell bonds that will be used to pay for things

> Police

the Mobile Command Unit.

“We take that VIN number and etch it into all your windows,” said Price, who called it a “deterrent” rather than a foolproof method of stopping thieves. “A thief is going to go after another car that doesn’t have that.” Price said a special method is used to tag motorcy-

The Country Store Deli

NewsRoanoke.com

From page 1

Forest Park Academy, a school for over-age and under-credited students graduated over 100 students for the second year in a row. Fishburn Park elementary school continues as a model environmental school, Fallon Park elementary won the 2009 National Excellence in Urban Education award and Patrick Henry High School was named one of the top high schools in the United States

by Newsweek.

“Most impressive, our graduation rate, which just a couple of years ago was at 58%, has been inching upwards and I’m pleased to tell you that the graduation rate for the school year ending 20092010 was 66%,” said Bowers.

Bowers lauded the opening of the Virginia Tech Carilion Medical School and the new Cambria Suites Hotel. He called these accomplishments “the biggest economic development initiative in the history of Roanoke since the railroad came to town over 100 years ago.”

Bowers ticked off a checklist of other accomplishments that included: Stabilization of the city’s finances, the hire of the new City Manager Chris Morrill, the city’s hosting of the Virginia Municipal League Annual Conference, the naming of Roanoke as a bicycle friendly community by the League of American Bicyclists, the expansion of the greenway, the Mill Mountain conservation easement, the recognition by the Virginia Sustainable Building Network of Roanoke’s Clean and Green in 2010, national certification from the National Weather Service recognizing emergency first responders, commitment for public art, the new firehouses, the police department’s continued national accreditation and the continued decline in violent crime.

“I want to end my remarks regarding our police department and fire department by recognizing Officer N.D. Comas, a former Marine, who earlier this year reached over the railing to save a woman who was jumping off of the 10th Street bridge. It is acts of daring and courage each day, performed by our police officers and fire personnel, who literally save the lives of Roanokers like you and me.

Congratulations and thank you Officer Comus and the members of the nationally accredited Roanoke Police, Fire/EMS and 9-1-1 departments.”

Bowers spent the rest of his address looking to the future saying: “We need to jump-start our ‘Big Mac’ capital improvement program. ‘Big Mac’ stands for the Market, the Amphitheater and Countryside,” said Bowers. He stressed that though municipal services are important “it’s also important for the City to maintain a progressive capital improvement program. Council took a goslow approach during these economic times on two of the three ‘Big Mac’ projects; I challenge the Council to move forward on the other two. And…by the way…the money available should dictate

> Valley

like parking garages, roads, water, and sewer improvements. The plan is for those bonds to be paid off with a percentage of the tax revenue from South Peak in the next 20 years.

Mahoney says using the CDA offers low financial risk to Roanoke County. On Tuesday the Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on the Community Development Authority proposal.

“The Roanoke County government - the Roanoke County tax payers - are not at risk for this project. If this project fails, taxpayers are not going to have to bail it out. There’s no legal obligation on the part of the county or county tax payers to pay off these bonds,” said Mahoney.

Smith believes it’s a good time to invest in the economy and the entrepreneur says he’ll be spending about 130 million dollars to bring the old Slate Hill to life. The Board of Supervisors gave preliminary approval for the CDA and will take a fianl vote on August 24th.

One less candidate for Sheriff in Roanoke County: Republicans will not field a candidate for Sheriff in Roanoke County as Roanoke County Police Lt. Steve Turner announced earlier this week that he would quit the race. Turner called off his bid just before the County GOP would have nominated him at a mass meeting, saying he did not have the time or money to devote to a campaign against Democrat Sheriff Mike Winston (named interim Sheriff after the retirement of Gerald Holt) and independent Mike Stovall.

by Gene Marrano (includes information from media partner WSLS-10)

From page 1 cles, since they don’t have windows to etch.

Price doesn’t think there are major chop shop operations in Roanoke; vehicles stolen here “are going somewhere else” to be parted out, in his estimation.

There is actually a problem with Moped thefts right now – “they’re too easy to steal. If they are sitting in your yard [thieves] are going to push them off if

they want it.”

“Criminals are getting smarter and smarter every day,” said Price “so we have to get smarter and smarter every day. We do our best to stay one step ahead.

We also want to get closer to the community and let them know that we’re here to help them when they need us.” The Mobile Command Unit is a big part of that effort.

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An average of 50 or more have shown up at the last few etchings. )

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8/13/10 - 8/19/10 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 3

NewsRoanoke.com

> Stroke options at Carilion Clinic include medication therapy to dissolve the clot causing the stroke, and an interventional therapy in which a device can actually pull a clot out of the brain.

“These treatments can often bring a remarkable recovery, with little or no lasting damage, if we can get the patient in for treatment quickly enough,” Mallenbaum says.

In June, CRMH received the Gold Seal of Approval from the Joint Commission as a Primary Stroke Center. The Gold Seal of Approval recognizes centers that make exceptional efforts to foster better outcomes for stroke care. Achievement of certification signifies that the services provided at CRMH have the critical elements to achieve long-term success in improving out-

From page 1 comes.

Carilion’s Joint Commission certified Stroke Center includes an important program called “Stroke Alert.” Similar to Carilion’s Heart Alert program, Stroke Alert coordinates the response and treatment of a stroke from the rescue squad to the hospital, and makes sure treatment occurs as quickly as possible. As part of Stroke Alert, Carilion continues to encourage the public to be vigilant for the signs of stroke, and call 911 immediately.

Signs include: • Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg, especially on one side • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech

Teens Get Glimpse Of Health Care As Career Choice

A job in the healthcare field nowadays usually requires a very thorough education, often helped along by getting an early start. This past week, 12 local middle-school students did just that at Carilion's “Camp Carilion." Over the course of four days a group of rising 8th and 9th graders toured Roanoke Memorial Hospital and other Carilion facilities, learning about hospital equipment, lifesaving techniques and the duties of a healthcare professional.

Now in its fourth year, Camp Carilion originated out of the hospital's "Caring Careers" program which allows healthcare professionals to participate at career days, sharing information about health care careers and health skills.

According to Program Director Jennifer Underwood, Carilion became aware that other Virginia hospitals were holding summer camps for middle-school students and they partnered with the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association to receive funding for their own summer camp.

This year, over 50 Carilion staff members created a plethora of activities, educating students from William Byrd, Cave Spring, Northside and Hidden Valley middle schools.

On the first day, the students were schooled in heart health issues. They learned about the Heart Alert program at Carilion, which fast-tracks heart attack victims - bypassing lengthy procedures while deftly integrating EMS personnel, physicians and cath lab technicians. They observed a simulated heart attack and then followed the activation of the EMS system and the care that a patient receives all the way to the catheterization lab.

The EMS staff took the middle-schoolers under their wing the following day. Students toured the ambulance base and met with EMS professionals. They also toured the Life-Guard 10 helicopter hangar and were introduced to the equipment used while carrying patients in the helicopter.

Some got more acquainted than others as student Giselle Bailey found out: "When I got strapped down to the stretcher, I was trying to get up by myself and ended up unbuckling my arms and legs!" said Bailey. Campers also visited the cardiac rehabilitation department of Carilion and met with a nutritionist and exercise physiologist.

Day three of the camp consisted of a wide survey of trauma services, where students became familiar with much of the equipment and processes used to treat trauma cases. After being educated about trauma safety and prevention, with a focus on teenage injuries tailored to their age group, they immersed themselves in exercises that taught skills such as IV insertion (practiced on mannequins, of course) and taking vital signs. Students were also schooled in X-rays, suturing, respiratory aid and cervical spine immobilization.

One section where the students got to flex their creative muscles was the "moulage" presentation.

Moulage is the art of applying fake injuries, for the express purpose of training EMS teams along with other medical and military personnel.

Following the same lines of instruction that

Staff member Cathy Cockrell instructs students during a trauma simulation. would be taught to EMS trainees, Life Support Training Coordinator Cathy Cockrell showed the students how to apply "black eyes" and "cuts."

Some horrifyingly well-done injuries were pointed out by middle-schooler Rebecca Dimarco: "You look pretty good, I mean...bad!," she told one camper.

Students also took part in a simulated "Gold Alert" trauma, which meant that there were multiple serious injuries on the "patient." Trauma Outreach Coordinator Deidra Pennington said that the students used skills learned in the moulage exercise. She noted that they needed to be prepared for the worst. "Gown up and glove up because you never know what's going to be coming in on that stretcher," she told the students as they entered the mock trauma bay.

Students were given cards that outlined their roles in the trauma bay, such as taking vital signs, putting on cervical collars and inserting IVs. They whirled around Becky, a staff volunteer done up in arm and leg moulage, as they put on cervical collars and wedged support blocks under her head. Above all, Pennington said, there had to be a humane touch to their approach: "Remember that our patients are people and that we have to talk to our patients."

The final day consisted of a trip to Jefferson College of Health Sciences, where the middle school students visited a physician assistant and a respiration therapist. At the end of the day, they played a game said by Underwood to be "kind of like Monopoly and Life," that was meant to explore the career choices, adult financial decisions and educational concerns that they might come across if seeking a job as a healthcare professional.

Some of the students already seemed to have their eyes on the medical field. "I came last year and had a really good time. I wanted to learn more about jobs at the hospital," said Kaitlin Pennington when asked why she attended Camp Carilion a second time. Deena Habizi already had her specialties narrowed down: "I'd like to be a pediatrician or an oncologist. I'm here to learn about the different careers and how the equipment functions."

• Sudden difficulty seeing in one or both eyes • Sudden loss of balance or coordination, problems with dizziness or walking • Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

Carilion will also work to educate the public about factors that increase the risk of stroke including: high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, heart disease, diabetes, previous stroke or ministrokes.

For more information about stroke care at Carilion Clinic, visit www.carilionclinic.org/Carilion/ Stroke_Services.

Dr. Sydney Mallenbaum, Neurologist and Medical Director of Carilion's Stroke Unit, shows where a clot was removed from a patient's brain, opening up blood flow.

Virginia Room Makeover in the Works at Downtown Library If you’ve been to the Roanoke City main library on Jefferson recently you may noticed several changes. For starters, the mezzanine area has been painted in a stately maroon and black motif, and filled with computer workstations that can be wheeled out for programs staged there, like the Emerging Artist series. Umberger has spoken about the mezzanine upgrade at library conferences, stressing its multi-use capability.

That was Phase 1 of a renovation effort; the $25,000 project also included new shelving, new carpet and a wall mural in a separate computer lab. A laptop area with receptacles where people can plug in computers, cell phones, etc. was also added.

Meanwhile, the Virginia Room, a treasure trove of historical documents, maps, records, ledgers and photographs, is undergoing a $35,000 renovation that should be completed by August 17th.

“We call it Phase 2,” said Roanoke City’s Director of Libraries, Sheila Umberger. The library’s reference area was also moved to the mezzanine and combined with the circulation department, giving the Virginia Room more square footage.

The original circulation desk from the Terry House library that once stood on the Elmwood Park site adjacent to the current library will also be used in the remodeled research area. “Its nice to be able to make those [special] touches,” said Umberger. She wants to add a café somewhere down the road.

The Virginia Room “really needed more space,” said Umberger, noting that its former home was first occupied in 1984. Expansion “will make the service even better.” Genealogists, who may want to discuss what they have uncovered while researching the Virginia Room archives, can use a new conference room.

An archival workroom will be created with the removal of a microfilm area and new shelving will provide a home for books there is no place for now. That new space will allow important historical artifacts “to be laid out in a safe, secure location,” said Umberger. The Roanoke Public Library Foundation, which “has been fabulous over the years,” according to Umberger, helped fund the research area renovations.

She has big plans for the future: upgrades to the Raleigh Court and Williamson Road libraries, then construction of the new “superbranch” on Peters Creek Road. “We need to take care of our current facilities [first],” said Umberger, noting that the north city corridor where the superbranch will be built is currently underserved.

The larger space under construction will give librarians more room to process donated items,

The Virginia Room is undergoing a makeover that should be completed by August 17th. like the boxes of Kiwanis Club records recently accepted. “We’re really excited about that,” said Laura S. Wickstead, the Virginia Room Librarian.

New tables, chairs and reading lamps will give the research room a more stately air. “The Virginia Room will be our quiet area,” said Umberger, noting that elsewhere in the library teen programs, computer classes and the like are a bit louder.

A company in Greensboro, using donations from the Library Foundation, recently restored an 1889 map of Roanoke. “We have a good collection of maps,” said Wickstead, who hopes to use some of them for an exhibit in the future.

The updated research area/Virginia Room will be repainted with a tile floor in one entrance hall.

Eventually reprints of photos and maps in the possession of the library will be sold from a small store. “Our goal is to make this building as attractive [as possible],” said Umberger, noting that it opened in 1952, “and to use [more] parts of the building.”

Wickstead said “a wide variety [of people],” come to the Virginia Room, from college students looking at old census roles, to “classic genealogists,” usually retired people that have the time to track family history. Others want to research the history of buildings and homes in Roanoke, finding the Virginia Room the ideal place to do that.

One regular at the library has been tracing her African American roots for a while, a journey that may take her to the Library of Virginia in Richmond. “Very exciting,” said Wickstead, noting that libraries are not museums – so visitors can get hands-on access to historic material, not just look at it.

“We’re working towards creating a space that’s really a research area, for people doing serious work,” said Wickstead, “and need[ing] a quiet place to do that.”

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

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Perspective

Page 4 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 8/13/10 - 8/19/10

A Perspective on Teachers It’s that time again – back pay. to school season. Nearly evIn elementary school, I was ery advertisement is telling us the kid who got myself into about hip new fashions and trouble by challenging the neclever new school supplies. cessity and purpose of many Parents are planning the last activities. If it seemed like little get-away before march- “busy work” – I wanted no ing band, cheerleading and part of it. This seldom went football practices over well. I can still begin.

Kids are see the look on my dreading the prosmother’s face as she pect of early mornexplained (repeatings and parents are edly) that life would ready for regular be filled with things schedules and rouwe didn’t want to tines. College studo and there would dents are scanning be consequences consignment shops for not doing them. and yard sales for How right she that perfect re- Stephanie Koehler was. useable desk or I will always rebeverage fridge – thinking member the lesson I learned about required courses and about honesty from my 2nd tuition hikes. But for me… grade teacher – simply by this time of year always makes her reaction when I admitme think about teachers. ted cheating on a spelling Everyone has a story about test. The guilt was too much that certain special person – so I explained how I had the who set them on the right word written on the inside of path, opened their imagina- my lift-top desk. No drama. tion to the unimaginable or No shaming. Just a red line made them believe that any- though the word and an apthing was possible. Whether preciation for “coming clean.” it was the 4th grade teacher I never cheated again. To this who gave you extra “tasks” day I think of her every time I so you wouldn’t get bored – write the word b-e-c-a-u-s-e. keeping you out of trouble; I was always a good student the 6th grade teacher who no- – so as I got older – the imticed your gift for singing and pact of my teachers came in suggested you try out for the other ways. Lessons of selfschool musical; or the high confidence and creative probschool teacher who wrote the lem solving. Lessons of incluletter to accompany the col- sion and kindness. Lessons of lege application…teachers perspective and perseverance. change the trajectory of our At a time when conventional lives in ways we can never re- wisdom said that “boys were

better at math than girls” -- Mrs. Halpern openly challenged that notion -- holding her female Algebra students to the highest of standards.

To this day, I am confident with numbers and the principals of mathematics.

While Mr. Thomas taught us about concave versus convex lenses and the principles of gravity – his greatest impact was watching him as an advisor and lacrosse coach.

His gentle (but no-nonsense) nature and unwavering authenticity has long since been a model for me. This teacher’s impact was so powerful – I tracked him down 20 years later (he’s now a middle school principal) to say…”you changed the direction of my life and I am grateful.”

So, to all of you who struggle on a “teacher’s salary” while facing the stress of crowded classrooms, shrinking budgets and rising expectations – I honor your commitment and value your impact. You never know…on a random Tuesday -- 20 years from now – it might be the kid in the back row of your class who calls to say “you have made all the difference.”

NewsRoanoke.com

Groundhogs, Bananas, Bluebirds, Peanuts and other Miracles

It’s a reasonable question to ask: Why do groundhogs [a native American animal] love a tropical fruit, bananas? [Trust me, they do.]

Why do monarch butterflies [the only winged non-birds to migrate] set forth on a trip which lasts longer than their lifespan?

[They begin the journey, their off-spring finish it.] And never having made the first part of the trip, the off-spring nevertheless know precisely where to fly next year.

Flying fish quiver their tales seventy times a second and can soar over two hundred yards.

Why? How? Migratory birds fly to many places, guided – we are told - by magnetic lines of force around the earth. How does each species know – often without their parents to instruct them - which of these lines to follow? Why do some birds mate only for a season, others, for life. [They never say, ‘I do,’ but they do.]

Sabrina and I have two house finches who set up housekeeping in a little nest in our garage one story down. One day, she and I looked out the patio door and saw these two flying madly, crazed, making a frantic sound we’d never heard before.

Sabrina took one look, sized up the situation immediately, and went running down to the garage. A huge black snake was about to swallow their babies and there was nothing the parents could do.

Contact Stephanie at The parents raced back into stephaniekoehler@cox.net the garage in time to see us hook the snake and drop him safely over a far-distant fence.

The two parents had come to Sabrina for help.

Another time, we were told a story of a Bluebird nest with babies attacked by a hawk.

Without hesitation, the mom and dad flew out to contest this threat. Was it a suicide mission or an attempt to ‘mob’ [confuse] the predator into flight? We’ll never know.

But the worst case scenario is this: had the parents sacrificed themselves their young would

have survived as Bluebirds raise peanuts.” several broods each season, and My wife stood there shaking the first brood, now grown, her head. “Peanuts.” would have stepped in and The mechanic, still laughing, raisied the newly born. bent down, picked up a cardIt is commonplace here for board box which was full of uncurmudgeonly Bluebirds to shelled nuts. “Peanuts.” There peck on the window of our were about 6 pounds of them in animal room when their meal- the box. worms run out. “Hey! How We went home and checked about a little service!” the other cars. In one, we found But how about this: my office approximately six more pounds sits on the second floor, far from stacked neatly on the little their feeders. But the other day, shelves within the motor. InterBluebirds started showing up estingly, the peanuts were found outside my office window. They in the Land Rover and the would scowl in at me and peck Range Rover, not in the old jeep impatiently on my or even more ancient window. pick-up truck.

Funny thing is: I Now, we don’t store have no feeders up nuts in the garage, so there. So why were the squirrel or squirthey there? I called rels are taking nuts Sabrina on the infrom the other side tercom. She said, of the house where “They’re there to tell we feed our wildlife, you they’re out of bringing them – lots mealworms down of them – around the here.” house, climbing the I said, “No way!” garage door to the Lucky Garvin She said, “I’ll go bird hole and cachcheck their bowls ing them in our and refill them if empty.” cars. For winter. But only into Within five minutes, all the the expensive cars… Leave it to blues were gone, down eating us to have snobby squirrels! the worms she had laid out for Like I said, you think you’ve them. I tell you, son, never in got problems?! Oh well, two my life have I met a person with good things came of it: the car instincts for animals like that now runs like it used to, and woman! we’ve recovered twelve pounds You think you’ve got prob- of peanuts. Sheesh! lems?! Sabrina and I have probI often think God must sit, lems.

His jaw cradled in His hand, I guess I should give you smiling at us trying to unravel some background. We have a the immensities and intricacies bird that makes a nest in my of His creation. toolbox twice each year. The Every now and then, He must toolbox is in the garage. In or- smile and acknowledge, “Well der to allow the bird access to its done” knowing full well, that nest without leaving the garage our most insightful discoveries door open twenty-four-seven, but scratch the surface. As for I cut a small hole in the top of me, I know a lot about wildlife, the door. but just enough to know that I A while back, one of our cars know nothing. started acting up. Off to the There’s magic all around us, garage for a diagnostic survey. but you’ve got to look for it.

Sabrina left the car with the me- Even more than that, you must chanic. She returned some time truly believe you’ll find it. later to find the entire staff in an Contact Lucky at uproar. Laughing. At us. info@theroanokestar.com “This is a first,” the mechanic said. “A motor failure due to

The Happy Chef

by Leigh Sackett

Watermelon Banana Split I was cutting a watermelon for a cook-out at my neighbors and it occurred to me very suddenly, that watermelon is such a beautiful fruit. I had an overwhelming moment as I looked at the green striped outside and the bright red inside and I thought what a perfect design and beautiful combination and what a FUN fruit!

I am an artist and a romantic so it was not the first time nature had swept me off my feet but it did remind me of the goodness of food and the joy it brings. As I set the watermelon slices on a green platter I felt the food’s power to add something special to the wonderful evening at my neighbor’s house. Sure enough at the end of the night the wa-

termelon was all gone!

Well kids are headed back to school, structure is returning to our lives and maybe you are hoping, like me, to get a few healthy snacks in front of your kids. (The staple of "Skittles" from the pool snack bar is wearing a little thin!) So fix this fun treat for the kids after their first days of school. Maybe the beauty and joy of watermelon will sooth their sorrowful “Oh, where did summer go!” hearts.

2 bananas 1 medium watermelon 1 cup fresh blueberries 1 cup diced fresh pineapple 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries 1/4 cup caramel fruit dip

1/4 cup honey roasted almonds -Peel bananas and cut in half lengthwise then cut each piece in half.

-For each serving, lay 2 banana pieces against sides of shallow dish.

-Using an ice cream scooper, place three watermelon "scoops" in between each banana in each dish. Remove seeds if necessary.

-Top each watermelon "scoop" with a different fruit topping. Drizzle caramel fruit dip over all.

-Sprinkle with almonds.

Makes 4 servings.

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Perspective

8/13/10 - 8/19/10 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 5

NewsRoanoke.com

Wretched Bits of Being In the great outdoors of of surface imaginable includthe Roanoke Valley, have you ing gravestones, monuments, noticed all those odd yellow, the tops of leaves, and even inorange, or gray patches on al- sect wings – inexorably reducpine rocks or roadside trees? ing the planet’s surfaces into Or perhaps the gray reindeer their elemental components “moss” covering the ground for later recycling. atop some of our mountains?

Who can explain their biThese are lichens (pronounced zarre symbiosis? Though their “Like’ ins”). British soldiers, components can be grown pixie cups, oakmoss, toadskin, separately in the laboratory, rockwool, angel’s they need each hair, rock tripe, and other to manifest old man’s beard are their easily recogjust a few of their nizable physical intriguing common forms. How they names. A number of do this represents references are readan important bioily available to help logical question identify lichens, esthat is relevant to pecially a handsome scientific studies 2001 publication about cell transforentitled Lichens of mation, including North America by H. Bruce Rinker, PhD cancer research, Irwin Brodo and thus making lihis colleagues. chens a potentially significant British poet and theolo- research tool. gian Thomas Edward Brown Globally, lichens have a rich called them “wretched bits of and varied relationship with being.” Lichens are unique people. Food, clothing, dyes, in the world of vegetation be- perfumes, medicines and cause they’re not plants. In poisons, models and decorafact, lichens are not a single tions, and even an esoteric entity, but a symbiotic asso- science called lichenometry ciation between a fungus and (a method to date artifacts usphotosynthetic organisms like ing established growth rates green algae or cyanobacteria. of lichens) represent some of Their evolutionary interrela- their applications. The most tionships are so successful that significant modern use of liscientists have identified close chens, however, is the monito 14,000 “species” worldwide, toring of environmental qualof which about 3600 differ- ity. Varying from species to ent types reside here in North species, lichens are known to America. Lichens are found be extremely sensitive to air from the tropics to the poles, pollution. Components of from coastlines to the peaks of acid rain such as sulfuric and mountains, and on every kind nitric acids as well as ozone,

hydrocarbons, and metals affect lichens. Thus, a “lichen desert” exists around a pollution source with pollution-tolerant species farther away and, still farther, a standard array of lichen biodiversity. If you see lichens, then it’s a good bet that the air is pretty clean where you are. Thus, they’re considered a good “indicator species” as we monitor environmental quality throughout our region.

In his 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, the great land ethicist Aldo Leopold wrote famously: “To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering.” When working in the field of conservation, who but a fool would discard seemingly useless parts? Every sliver of Creation is important for the health of the planet: not just the so-called “sexy megafauna” like eagles and pandas, but also those diminutive, less glamorous species such as lichens.

What’s necessary at this point in our conservation efforts is what Field and Stream once called a “refined taste in natural objects.” As Brown’s wretched bits of being, lichens can exact profound changes over time on their surroundings and, thus, deserve an inclusive refinement in our respect for the natural world.

H. Bruce Rinker, Ph.D. Science Department Chairman BRinker@NorthCross.org

One Man's Treasure Indeed China provides the U.S. with scribing it as "truly a treasure." lots of inexpensive goods. In Mmm, yummy. return, the U.S. sells back to Is it Scotch? No. China many high-end luxury Wine? Uh-uh! products.

It's a beer. But not just any Here's a case in beer, a beer with point. If you pick up a long and distina copy of Window of guished tradition. the South, a highly First brewed in respected bi-weekly 1844 by German business magazine immigrants, this in China, you'll find ambrosia has won lots of advertisemany international ments for expensive awards. It was the luxury products. choice of the rich In the latest issue, and powerful for there's an ad inside years, including Mike Keeler the front cover for Bob Hope, who a delicious imfamously served ported alcoholic beverage. It it in his home. It was once shows a tall champagne flute one of the most popular beers holding a beautiful amber liq- in America, selling as many uid, next to an elegant brown- as 15MM barrels a year. It is and-gold bottle, standing to- synonymous with American gether proudly upon an oaken craftsmanship. It is, quite simcask. The copy raves that the ply, a legend. premium wood and craftsNo wonder, then, that it is manship of the casks creates craved by the Chinese quaffthe product's wondrous color ing cognoscenti; in China, it is and flavor, and ends by de- known as "Blue Ribbon 1844"

and retails for $44 bucks a bottle.

But here in the States, you can buy a six-pack for about 4 bucks.

You know it as Pabst Blue Ribbon. Mmm, yummy.

Contact Mike at info@theroanokestar.com

How Do You Keep Going When Things Get Tough? By Carey Kinsolving

"By trying we can easily learn to endure adversity -- another man's, I mean," wrote Mark Twain.

If you're reduced to human resources, there's wisdom as well as wit in Twain's quip. Severe personal adversity has a way of undoing us. The selfassured masks we love to wear become difficult to maintain.

Taylor, age 10, knows what it's like to be embarrassed: "Once I remember I was not doing good in my baseball game. I really wasn't batting or fielding well, so I asked God to help me be better next time I go to bat or go to field. I keep going because I go to the Lord in prayer."

At times, everyone drops the ball and strikes out. The difference is where you go when you're down and out.

"One time I thought nobody loved me," says Anna, 7. "After a few days, I told my mom.

She said that they love me, but sometimes things don't go your own way. She also said that if I trust in God, he will lead me to the right path. After that, I trusted in God. Guess what, my mom was right."

It's amazing how many times moms are right. God created us with a deep desire to be loved. If you have loving parents, you're blessed. But even the best parents can't fill all the capacity you have for love. Neither can your spouse.

If you feel unloved, you'll create your own adversity. No one can carry the overbearing weight of feeling unloved. Adversity merely brings it to light.

Until you're in a relationship with the most passionate lover of all, God himself, you'll try to fill the void of feeling unloved with all kinds of things and people.

"I keep on going when life gets tough by knowing that there is more to life than just that one moment," says Robbie, 11.

"Do not lose heart," the Apostle Paul wrote. "For our

light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen" (II Corinthians 4:16a18a).

If there were a Suffering Hall of Fame, the Apostle Paul would be inducted unanimously on the first ballot. Maligned, misunderstood, shipwrecked, beaten, stoned, jailed, ill, betrayed and eventually beheaded, Paul unquestionably was afflicted.

How did he come through it? He looked beyond immediate hardship. He saw God using hard times to create in him something glorious. Paul traded the weight of feeling unloved by those who persecuted him for what he called "an eternal weight of glory."

Some might accuse Paul of wearing eternal rose-colored glasses, but he's not alone.

"When things get tough, you have to realize that God planned it, and it will turn out for the best," says Caroline, 11.

This is not a fatalist view toward adversity. Rather, it's seeing God at work even where opposition abounds. God is mysteriously at work in adversity, but it takes eyes of faith to see him.

Another Caroline, 9, tells us how to focus when looking through our eternal-weightof-glory glasses. "When things start going bad for me, I believe in God, and then I say a prayer.

Then I feel a whole lot better.

Sometimes I just go up in my room and get my Bible and start reading."

Question to consider: Can you see God's purpose in enduring a difficult person or circumstance?

The Roanoke Star-Sentinel C o m mu n i t y | N ew s | Pe r s p e c t i ve

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

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Page 6 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 8/13/10 - 8/19/10

NewsRoanoke.com

Journey of Hope is Ongoing Gift of Love New Local Foods Directory Available from VT EarthWorks

Want to buy food produced locally? Looking for farmers markets and local-foods restaurants nearby? The Roanoke Valley Locavore Directory is out, produced with the help of VT EarthWorks.

"Locavores, or people committed to eating foods produced or grown locally, now have an easy way to connect with producers, retailers, and even each other," says Christy Gabbard, director of VT EarthWorks.

"The directory is amazingly comprehensive and includes everything from vegetables, meat, and cider, to restaurants, markets, and bakeries."

Restaurants and stores from large to small are featured, from the family-run Big Fat Jerry's Seasoning in Clifton Forge, to the Hotel Roanoke, which partners with farmers in the region. Mattie's Mountain Mud in New Castle, sells fresh-roasted organic coffee. More than twodozen farmers markets and food co-ops are included with descriptions and contact information.

The directory also contains links to six blogs devoted to various aspects of local foods, including produce, flowers, honey and community supported agriculture.

"The benefits of buying local are numerous," Gabbard says.

"Money stays within your local community and supports local

Director of VT EarthWorks, Christy Gabbard. farmers. Transportation routes are shortened, providing environmental benefits as well."

VT EarthWorks is part of Virginia Tech's Outreach and International Affairs and has been developed in partnership with the Virginia Cooperative Extension. VT EarthWorks helps growers, farmers, and other businesses in the startup or expansion phases by providing access to markets, land-lease arrangements, innovative technology, and research.

Extension agents are working on numerous projects to encourage agricultural producers to sell their products in local markets and consumers to buy local foods. In addition to compiling the directory of local farmers, Extension agents in Roanoke have hosted cooking demonstrations and tast-

ings, a food challenge, and food preservation demonstrations to teach citizens about eating seasonal fruits and vegetables grown in their own community. They have also hosted vegetable gardening events such as the 1940s-inspired Vegetables for Victory Garden Challenge, taught elementary-age youth about gardening and growing their own food, and collaborated with regional producers to showcase food grown in the Roanoke Valley.

You can view the directory online at www.roanokevalleylocavore.com/markets or pick up a printed copy at many area libraries. To distribute copies of the 2010 Roanoke Valley Locavore Directory at a business, contact Christy Gabbard at cgunnels@ vt.edu) or (540) 767-6114.

There is nothing quite like unconditional love in action.

And there was plenty on display as bicyclists from “Push America” and their “Journey of Hope” team swarmed the outdoor shelter at Longwood Park in Salem last week to meet and play with local children.

Journey of Hope is just one of several outreach arms of the national fraternity Pi Kappa Phi. Though the fraternity has a chapter locally at Roanoke College, these cyclists came from all across the country.

“Pi Kappa Phi is the only social fraternity with their own non-profit organization,” states Alex Masica, public relations spokesperson for the team.

The organization attracts civic minded young men because of their commitment to making a difference in this world.

There are three teams spending this summer cycling across America to raise funds and awareness for people with disabilities. Masica joined the organization because he has a sibling with Down syndrome. They were visiting with members of the Down Syndrome Association of Roanoke (DSAR), a local organization founded by Susan Cloeter almost twenty years ago at the birth of her son.

By the end of the visit, a check for $750 was gifted to DSAR but it was almost anticlimactic. The real gift was the unconditional love being shared among all the participants. It could be seen and heard in the heartfelt hugs offered to the team members, and the quiet conversations

Photo by Amy Cloeter

“Push America” volunteers and their Roanoke guests. while sitting on the ground dignified approach is necessary. leaning against the fence.

When the Cloeter family gave The patient games of catch birth to a son with Down Synbetween the athletes and the drome all those years ago, they children showed the character became quickly aware of the of the young men involved in lack of local information and the fraternity. The tables piled support. In the midst of their high with food and the sincere adjustment to this unexpected invitation offered to a stranger life challenge they founded to join-in, showed a grace and DSAR and some wonderful rekindness often lacking in those sults have followed. They plan who have never faced adversity. on continuing their advocacy Masica, who is studying jour- and support of families in the nalism, expressed his concerns area who meet the same chalover terminology often used to lenges they do every day. describe people with disabilities.

If you or someone you know He spoke of the origin of the faces the challenge of a family word “handicapped” explaining member with Down syndrome that it originated in England as you may visit dsar.org or cona derogatory term for those un- tact them at 540-772-6460. able to work. They often stood You can become involved with hat upturned in hand beg- with Push America and gather ging for coins, thus they were information at pushamerica. “handy-cappers”. Since one org . fourth of our population has

By Christine Slade a disability in one form or aninfo@newsroanoke.com other, he suggests that a more

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The Virginia Vintage Comics and Collectibles Show returns for the 13th year to the Salem Civic Center on Saturday, August 21. Over the show’s first 12 years, old comic books have become increasingly popular and valuable.

At the end of the 20th Century, the top price for a single comic book sale was $147,000.

This year there have been three comic books that each sold for a million dollars or more.

While a few select, pristine old comic books continue to outpace the stock market, real estate and even gold as investments, there are still many thousands of issues that can be

bought at the Virginia Vintage Show for only a few dollars.

You can still find old comics at comic and hobby shows, but the Salem show is the only vintage comics show in the eastern United States.

That is one of the reasons why dealers and collectors have attended from 13 states, ranging from Florida to New York to the Midwest. Chris Budel, of Nostalgia Zone, who has driven 1,100 miles several times from Minneapolis said the show “is the best one-day, small-city show in the country.”

Comic books, which were an American staple during the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, have

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This year 3 comic books have been auctioned for over $1mm. enjoyed a renaissance in recent years as Hollywood has turned to the iconic superheroes as source material. Superman, Batman and Spider-man have inspired blockbuster action

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movies, and even some minor characters have been made into recent movies.

While many people attend the show to add to their collection, others may find an opportunity to sell or trade some or all of their comic books. While more recent issues may not currently have much resale value, most of the dealers at the show are anxious to make offers on older material.

Admission is $2 for adults, while 12 and under are admitted free. A portion of admission will be donated to Second Harvest Food Bank.

The first 200 attendees will receive a free comic book.

Show hours are 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. For additional information, call 540-789-7056 or visit: virginiavintagecomics.com.

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Sports

PAGE 2 WEEKEND

8/13/10 - 8/19/10 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 7

Cave Spring Wins Heritage Invitational Golf Tournament

Patrick Henry Heats Up For 2010 Football Campaign

Cave Spring used balanced scoring from its top four players as the Knights captured the 24-team Things were heating up in more ways than one as the Patriots entered week two of preseason Heritage Invitational Monday at London Downs Golf Club in Forest. practice. With temperatures in the 90s, the PH squad drilled on formations, technique and plays.

Cave Spring, using the best four scores from five entrants, finished with a 313 total, good enough for All the preparation leads up to the season opener August 27th at home against the Hidden Valley a 4-shot victory over three schools tied at 317 including Hidden Valley, Franklin County and Jefferson Titans.

Forest. Hidden Valley was officially awarded third after a tiebreaker format was used. For Cave Spring, it was a successful defense of the title it also won last year.

Among other area teams, Salem finished with a team score of 319, Lord Botetourt 320, Northside 338, Patrick Henry 355, and William Fleming 508. George McDaniel of Jefferson Forest was the medalist, shooting 69. Hidden Valley's Brad Elder was 4-back with an impressive 73.

Cave Spring was led by Drew Lagan's 75, followed by Nick Brediger (77), Drew Board (80), and Eric Hart (81). Freshman Meagan Board fired a 85 as the fifth Knight player.

Other individual area scores of note included Hidden Valley's Alex Taylor (74), Salem's Andrew Butts (73), Botetourt's Lyndsey Hunnell (77) and Justin Broyles (79) and Northside's Dylan Wright (77).

High school tournament play continued Thursday with the Metro Tournament at Botetourt Counry Club.

Photos and recap by Bill Turner

Drew Lagan of Cave Spring tees off on the first hole at London Downs on his way to a teamleading 75.

The PH offense works on a play formation.

S Hidden Valley's Brad Elder checks his line. Elder fired a 73 to lead the Titans.

Drannan Altizer of William Fleming hits his approach shot during Monday's play.

A PH lineman reads the formation.

Northside's Ryan Hartman hits his tee shot over the lake at the 18th Photos and recap by Bill Turner hole.

Players jump through the blocks.

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Sports

FCS Watermelon Ministry Visits Local High Schools

Al Soltis, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, brought their football 'Watermelon Ministry' to Patrick Henry's Gainer Field last Thursday afternoon for a stop at the Patriot practice. Soltis conveyed to the players the FCA values of serving, teamwork, excellence, integrity and an abiding faith in God. Afterwards, the players and coaches were treated to a welcome sight after a grueling workout - watermelon. The FCS team visits every High School in the valley during Aug / Sept.

8/13/10 - 8/19/10 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 8

River Ridge Golf Preview

As the 2010 high school golf season gets underway this week, Cave Spring will be young under a new head coach, while Hidden Valley will have experience with four returning seniors and three juniors in a very competitive River Ridge District.

gen, Alex Line, Grant Snyder and Kyle Utterback.

When asked about this year's team, coach Biscotte replied, "We are young, talented, have a positive attitude and good team support."

Hidden Valley: with their top four seniors and three juniors returning to the links this season, the Titans are hoping to make some noise this year. "We have very high expectations for the season and the players understand that no single shot can be taken for granted," said coach Brian Harris. "After all, we are in the most competitive district in the state."

Returning seniors include

CS - Eric Hart.

PH players listen to words of wisdom from FCA's Al Soltis and PH Head Coach Brad Bradley.

Cave Spring: with only two seniors on a roster which contains five sophomores and five freshmen, the Knights will be one of the youngest teams in the district this season under first-year head coach Stephen Biscotte. Biscotte, a science teacher at Cave Spring, is the third coach at the school in as many years.

CS freshman - Meagan Board.

Brad Elder, Alex Taylor, Taylor Walker, Steven Tirico and Carter Wright. Both Elder and Taylor were both regional qualifiers last season. "Our top four returning seniors are a dynamic group of golfers with talent and leadership abilities," said the coach.

Salem HS - Andrew Butts

Al Soltis gets ready to address the PH players.

Patriot players enjoy the benefits after the Watermelon Ministry.

Photos and recap by Bill Turner

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The Knights, who finished third in the Group AA state tournament and second in both the Region IV and River Ridge District last season, lost star performers Matt Harmon and Jack Wilkes, who are heading to Radford University and University of Richmond, respectively.

Looking to provide the leadership this year will be seniors Erik Hart and David McPeak.

The sophomore class will consist of Drew Board, Nick Brediger, Cody Caldwell, Jesse Hart and Teddy Melnick. New to the team this year are freshmen Meagan Board, Drew La-

CS - Nick Brediger.

team for the past two years," stated Harris. New faces to the Knights' squad include freshmen Keith Otto, Sean O'Connell, John Craighead and Tyler Williams.

"A strong showing of freshmen golfers this year gives our team a bright future and rounds out the personalities in the locker room," added Harris. "We look for lots of competition for our starting positions, which will bring out the best in us,"

Golf Tournament Schedule

Hidden Valley 8/9/10 – Heritage Invitational @ London Downs 8/12/10 – Metro Golf Tournament @ Botetourt 8/17/10 – District Mini @ Hunting Hills 8/19/10 – District Mini @ Roanoke CC 8/24/10 – District Mini @ Blacksburg CC 8/26/10 – District Mini @ Hidden Valley CC 8/31/10 – District Mini @ The Meadows 9/2/10 – District Mini @ Thorn Springs 9/7/10 – vs. Northside @ Ole Monterrey 9/9/10 – vs. William Byrd and Bassett @ Hidden Valley CC Cave Spring Aug. 9 Heritage Tournament London Downs 1:00 Aug. 12 Metro Botetourt CC 11:00 Aug. 17 Cave Spring Hunting Hills 1:00 Aug. 19 Salem Roanoke C.C 1:00 Aug. 24 Blacksburg Blacksburg C.C. 1:00 Aug. 26 Hidden Valley Hidden Valley 1:00 Aug. 31 Christiansburg Round Meadows 1:00 Sept. 1 Pulaski Thorn Springs C.C. 1:00 Sept. 9 Northside Hunting Hills 3:30 Sept. 13 William Byrd Blue Hills 3:30 Sept. 16 Glenvar Hanging Rock 4:00 Sept. 22 Franklin Co. Hunting Hills 3:30

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Returning juniors include Scott Helgeson, Sara Moir and Tim Yang. "Our three returning juniors each have the ability to go low and have been dedicated members of the

By David Grimes info@newsroanoke.com

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NewsRoanoke.com

Mid-Summer Gardening Some vegetable plants are starting to fail in this heat.

Squash vine borers attack any of the vine crops, causing plants to suddenly wilt and collapse. The adult, a clearwinged moth, lays eggs on the plant which hatch out and bore into the stem. They feed on the interior of the stem, disrupting the water flow.

Frass (excrement mixed with plant fibers) may appear at the base or along the stems of the plant. Sometimes, if caught early enough, a vine can be saved by slitting the stem on one side and removing the larva. The slit portion of the stem should be buried in soil at the base of a leaf to root.

Often though, the plant dies before it has a chance to root.

Removal of the plant becomes necessary. Control measures should be applied early in the season, when the vines begin to run, and continued for a month or so at the labeled interval. They should be applied in the evening, avoiding open flowers if possible, to protect foraging bees.

Powdery and downy mildew are fungi that attack during periods of high humidity or when leaves are still wet at evening fall. Protective fungicides may be applied, but badly damaged plants should be removed.

Spider Mites, which thrive in heat, have made short work of many bean crops. There is

A Brown Marm Nymph high pressure from Bean Beetles, as well, this year.

Cabbages and cool-season crops, such as lettuce and many greens, are bolting (going to seed) and should be removed.

Damage is occurring to a variety of plants as Brown Marmorated Stink Bug nymphs suck the sap from already drought-stressed plants. Plants collapse because they lose water faster than the roots can replace it.

There have also been reports of the bugs attacking at the base of flower buds, causing them to abort before they can produce fruit, of corn silks being shriveled at the end of the cob, so that pollination does not occur, and of flower petals being sucked dry before they can finish developing.

These insects are resistant to control. Rotating products, applying residual action types when insects are ac-

tive but temperatures are at their coolest, and thorough coverage, will help control these nymphs. Adults will be less affected. The nymphs are spined and may appear humped. The presence of banded antennae and legs are good indicators. We have not previously thought of this exotic import as a real threat to crops, but some experts are taking a second look at that thinking, as reports of damage increase.

Whiteflies arise in clouds around heavily infested plants. When the weather is hot, control is difficult as one complete life cycle occurs in less time than most pesticides allow repeat applications.

Therefore, for each generation you treat, a generation of breeders may slip by you.

If these and other problems have caused you to have gaps in your garden, here are some replacements you may still consider planting: Beans (check days to harvest) Beets, especially for greens Cabbage (from plants) Chard Cole plants (Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts) Greens Fast maturing okra and summer squash Radish

Drew Bennett Needs Your Help On September 4, 2009, I was added to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) for Active Level 1 transplant. I am waiting on the official call that the organs for a stomach, small and large bowel, and possible liver transplant are available for me. At that time my Mom, brother and sister will re-locate with me to Pittsburgh for 9-12 months after the transplant.

Here’s an opportunity to make a real difference in a short amount of time. Cave Spring Baptist Church is having a big yard sale on Saturday, August 21st to benefit Drew Bennett. Drew is a chronically ill child awaiting multiple transplants. You can view his information by going to: prayfordrew.com. Donations will be accepted on Thursday and Friday, August 19th and 20th from 10am-8pm. Clear your home of unwanted items and support a family that truly needs your help. Another way to assist, of course, is to attend the sale and buy some great stuff!

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Valley Business

Page 10 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 8/13/10 - 8/19/10

Carlos - 20 Years Strong and Still Serving Up the Best

Carlos Amaral came to the United States from Brazil in the 1970's and began his culinary career in Boston. Since then, he has worked in restaurants in New York City, Montreal, Toronto, and Vermont before settling in Roanoke and opening Carlos Restaurant (originally) on the Roanoke City Market; a restaurant built on a reputation of excellent food and uncompromising service.

Carlos is joined by his brother, Ricardo Amaral, and Ricardo's wife Maggie Amaral, who help ensure a world class staff of courteous and knowledgeable professionals.

Together, the Amaral Family have created a unique atmosphere for diners to experience an exceptional meal in an incredible setting atop the knoll across from Tanglewood Mall above route 419 in SW County.

As you enter Carlos, chances are you will see Maggie Amaral greeting customers, always wearing a smile as she oversees servers who are focused on providing excellent service to their customers. At times, both Carlos and Ricardo will also make an appearance to scan the room to watch customer's responses before they disappear back into the kitchen.

The words “Passion for Perfection” really are lived and worked out at Carlos. The Amarals don’t believe in frozen foods or pre-cooked items - the bottom line is that all ingredients have to be fresh. Have you ever watched a Chef on TV preparing a meal that made your mouth water or found a new recipe and spent hours preparing the perfect meal? This is the mindset of Carlos.

Surround a delicious meal with a beautiful setting, comfortable, classy environment and you start to understand their secret to success. Of course, if you are more of a meat and potatoes lover, they can please your palate too. Carlos offers a wide variety menu with something delicious for everyone and they are always open to new dishes. Their lunch menu continues to be updated with new items added weekly.

If you like to wrap up your dining experience with something sweet, just look to

Bobby at his “Sweet Tooth Desert Bar.” You’ll find all deserts are made from scratch. If you are a chocolate lover, you absolutely must try Bobby’s Madonna desert dish, Carlos signature chocolate.

While Carlos, Maggie and Ricardo take pride in the years of experience and expertise they "bring to the table," they are the first to tell you it takes teamwork. Each day, before serving hours begin, Maggie meets with her staff and they plan for success as a team - each knowing their role and recommitting themselves to the underlying philosophy that "the customer comes first."

Winner of numerous awards including: Best Chef, Best Dessert, Best Service and a consistent winner of Best Restaurant Overall, the Amaral Family ensures your visit to Carlos Brazilian International will be a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To learn more about Carlos visit them online at: http://www.carlosbrazilian.com/

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The biggest challenge for marketing professionals a decade ago was getting online, and transforming their mass communications-style marketing efforts into more segmented online models.

But now that online marketing is a standard element of every company’s efforts, one expert believes that many of those campaigns are falling short because companies don’t use newer technologies aimed at tracking their online tactics.

“The first hurdle for businesses in the Internet age was just to get online with a Web site that was engaging and thought-provoking,” said Shawn Elledge, chief engagement officer of the Integrated Marketing Summit. “Soon, the challenge became devising a way to use that site to engender and even close sales.

Today, however, many companies are missing the boat because they aren’t truly tracking their online efforts in ways that could help them get even more business. They still don’t understand the technology completely, so instead of finding comprehensive ways to integrate it with their marketing strategies, they compartmentalize it and keep it separate.

If they want to be competitive, that dog just won’t hunt.”

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the money will help approximately 60 veterans in Roanoke and surrounding areas in the first year. "As long as we are doing a good job on the program and serving the needs of veterans, it will renew for two more additional years. And once we get through the three-year grant cycle, then we would have to go back and actually do a formal application."

"We saw the grant release; we check federal regs every day to see what grants are out there.

And we had identified in the past a need for veterans for employment training, so we're always looking for jobs for that." They worked with the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the Virginia Employment Commission, "and identified

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by as much as 800 percent.

That’s why Elledge, a marketing veteran of more than 20 years, is such an advocate of integration and automation in modern marketing.

“In the early days of television you could run a TV ad on the three networks and reach 85percent of the entire U.S. population,” he added.

“Thanks to the Internet, buying behavior has changed forever, and it’s the consumers who now determine how you reach them, instead of the other way around before there were 1,000 channels. This paradigm shift in the marketplace has made it increasingly difficult for marketers to manage and maintain any sense of brand integrity. The sheer number of marketing channels combined with an ever increasing number of applications is forcing marketers to learn new techniques and technologies if they want to be successful or just keep their job.”

Elledge’s tips for companies who want to get on the integration bandwagon include: If you want to become more efficient, you have to add automation. You cannot hope to integrate your myriad online and offline marketing tactics if there isn’t some level of automation in both the execution and tracking of your marketing arsenal.

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sure they connect to your offline marketing strategies.

The need to learn new technologies in today's market is imperative for success. If you’re not up to speed on the current marketing technologies available, you can bet your competitors already are.

If you are selling a product or service today you must adopt technologies that will track and score prospected online behavior, otherwise you’ll forfeit the ability to tell hot leads from cold ones. That results in wasted time, inefficiency and lost sales.

“If you know what you’re doing, you can use automation and online tracking to get a clearer picture than ever before of what works and what doesn’t work,” Elledge said.

“That’s the soul of efficient marketing, because it gives companies the ability to stop spending money that doesn’t generate revenue, and focus the marketing budget on what does. And at the end of the day, it’s all about spending the least amount of money to drive the most revenue you can.”

Shawn Elledge is a veteran marketing executive, with more than 20 years in the field. He is currently the chief engagement officer of the Integrated Marketing Summit (www.integratedmarketingsummit.com).

TAP Receives Federal Grant to Assist Valley Veterans

Total Action Against Poverty in Roanoke has received a 200 thousand dollar grant to help

By Bill Braton homeless veterans find jobs info@newsroanoke.com and housing. TAP was the only Virginia organization to receive one of 33 first year federal Labor Department grants. TAP spokeswoman Jo Nelson says

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what the needs were, what kind of training they needed in this area for homeless vets, and submitted a grant through a competitive process."

Nelson says it's a new program for Roanoke and for the Commonwealth of Virginia.

"We'll be using the money primarily for job training for homeless veterans. We'll be able to pay tuition if a veteran wants to get certified as a nursing assistant. We'll be able to provide construction classes and training for veterans. We'll also be able to do what we call transitional employment; basically it would be similar to on-the-job training. We would actually find a business who might be interested in hiring a veteran and we would pay the veteran for the first two months, and then would be looking for the employer to make a decision as to whether they would pick the person up on their payroll beyond that." She says it's a way to give vets a leg up on the job market with the economy the way it is now.

Lin Roberts is the coordinator of TAP's Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program. He says there are many types of jobs available for veterans. "One of our jobs is to build relationships with employers. . . and a lot of people out there are really willing to help those in need. And so there are jobs in construction, not as many as there were, but I'm hoping with the veterans training some of them have had, we can branch out into a whole lot of things involving technology and so forth."

According to Roberts, it's all about networking and making the connection between veteran and employer.

"I think it's a great program and it's going to take a lot of community teamwork to serve these guys like they deserve to be served. They have made the sacrifice, and I think that it's our job now to band together and work together on this thing and help them out."

By Beverly Amsler info@newsroanoke.com

Arts & Culture

NewsRoanoke.com

Something a Bit Different: Guerilla Playhouse Guerilla Playhouse at Studio Roanoke moves to the second and fourth Sundays of every month (8pm) beginning August 22nd. The series offers staged readings of plays still being worked on, with an opening set of music. For a $5 admission it’s worth a try.

The most recent Guerilla Playhouse (the last scheduled on the first Sunday of the month) featured music by Ryan Browning’s one-man band, “On the Cooling Board.” The Guerilla Playhouse series debuted after No Shame Theatre left the space at 30 Campbell Avenue, returning to its original home at Mill Mountain Theatre. The most recent Guerilla Playhouse played to a house about three quarters full.

Browning played a blues-rock set, mostly originals, beginning as a seated, bow-tied, suit jacket-wearing troubadour, ending without jacket and bowtie, dress shirt open, dramatically lying on the Studio Roanoke stage while singing about “John the Revelator.” Browning hopes to have some recorded music available soon on his MySpace page.

As for the reading, playwright Brian Turner’s “Wild Turkey” featured four men at a hunting lodge, three of them shaking off the effects of too much partying the night before. Former Studio

Actors work through a scene at Studio Roanoke.

Roanoke development officer Chad Runyon returned to play one of the four main characters in Wild Turkey. He recently played a dog during the Overnight Sensations series of miniplays at Mill Mountain Theatre.

Dwayne Yancey directed that work, as he did with Wild Turkey.

There are hallucinations, more drinking, ruminations about getting older and ending all of the boozing, lots of coarse language and a femme fatale that may have poisoned some breakfast sausages she left behind after a one night stand with one of the men. (Three of

them meet an untimely demise while the other claims to have found religion.)

Actors read from scripts during most of the performance, as is the case with staged readings. Try Guerilla Playhouse for something a bit different – watching an unpolished work in its early stages.

Roanoke Public Libraries Receives AmeriCorps Grant Roanoke Public Libraries has been selected to receive a $65,000 AmeriCorps grant to fund 13 part-time positions that will help the Libraries expand its computer literacy training programs. The city's library system is one of only four in Virginia selected to receive this funding.

Through this partnership with AmeriCorps, Roanoke Public Libraries will be able to offer enhanced training for job skills, to work with city schools to improve SOL scores, and to provide other needed technology skills training to the community.

Often called the Peace Corps of America, AmeriCorps has enlisted more than 540,000 Americans since 1993 to work on behalf of their communities. In addition to receiving a living allowance, members who successfully complete their terms of service receive an Education Award that can pay for additional college or graduate school courses, or pay off

First Ever Exhibit For Photographer Will Benefit United Way

By day, Ed Hamilton works for Carilion Clinic; he started the audio-visual department at Roanoke Memorial Hospital in 1973. Now a public relations specialist, the longtime communications professional - who did instructional radio and TV programs as well - is also an outdoor buff that has hiked about half of the Appalachian Trail. “A man for many seasons,” Hamilton is a nature photographer as well, specializing in images taken along the AT and in coastal Carolina.

Now for the first time Hamilton is showing off some of his colorful, richly detailed images at the United Way of Roanoke Valley offices (325 Campbell Avenue). United Way chose Hamilton to be the first artist whose work adorns the hallways of its recently re-

See studioroanoke.org for more on upcoming Guerilla Playhouse programs.

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

existing student loans.

In addition to the AmeriCorps grant, Roanoke Public Libraries has recently received a $33,000 grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to purchase two mobile laptop labs. These labs will enable the Libraries' AmeriCorps members to provide computer classes remotely to schools and partner agencies to expand computer learning in the community.

For more information, contact Wendy Allen, Head of Public Services, at 540-853-2473.

8/13/10 - 8/19/10 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 11

Photo by Gene Marrano

Ed Hamilton’s first formal showing is at the United Way headquarters in Roanoke. furbished offices.

Photo USA donated the printing and Jordan’s Custom Framing and Art did likewise with the frames. Proceeds from any of Hamilton’s works that are sold at United Way during the exhibit (at least another month or so) will be donated back to United Way. The works are priced from $350-$650.

The Roanoke River and McAfee’s Knob are among the subjects Hamilton photographed and framed for the informal show, which kicked off recently with a reception in the United Way community room. Executive Director Frank Rogan said that space is available free of charge for non-profit organizations that would like to hold meetings

Photo by Ed Hamilton

A view from the summit of Blood Mountain, along the Appalachian Trail in northern Georgia. there. The space is equipped with audio-visual equipment and internet hookups. “It’s got great technology,” said Rogan.

As for the art exhibit, “Ed Hamilton came in and said we needed something on the walls,” added Rogan. That’s how United Way came to host its first art exhibition. Call United Way of Roanoke Valley (777-4208) if you want to come down and see the photographs. He’s open to other artists filling the space after Hamilton’s photographs come down. “We’d love to have them put their stuff up on the wall.”

Originally Rogan had spoken to Hamilton about one print he could hang in his office; that turned into a full blown exhibit.

Any extra money that comes from the sale of Hamilton’s photographs would be welcome. “Giving is tough right now, [even though] our giving has been up,” said Rogan.

“I think people really understand the needs are growing

out there.”

Hamilton is happy to blend his professional life with a love of the outdoors. “I’m pretty passionate about hiking.” He’s walked the AT from Pennsylvania to its southern terminus on Springer Mountain in Georgia. Many of the photographs displayed at United Way are studies in how sunlight hits trees, water, etc. “I love water - I’m a Pisces,” explains Hamilton.

Hamilton will often walk in the woods and spy something that is photo-worthy. Then he thinks, “it’s a shame to not capture that.” That’s when the camera comes out. The fruits of those labors are now sprucing up and helping the United Way. “This is a brand new thing for me,” said Hamilton, “I’m flattered and humbled.”

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

$10 or Less Lunch Menu Brazilian International Cuisine 4167 Electric Road

Open For Lunch Monday Through Friday

11:30am-2pm

CALL: 776-1117

HAD AN ACCIDENT?

Announcing Aubrey Knight, M.D. , F.A.A.

Medical Director for Roanoke United Methodist Home As Medical Director, Dr. Knight brings his geriatric expertise to the health and wellness of the residents of RUMH. According to Elaine Lavinder, Executive Director, “The Roanoke United Methodist Home is extremely fortunate to have Dr. Knight join the staff.”

Dr. Knight is Section Chief, Geriatrics for the Carilion Clinic Center for Healthy Aging, Associate Professor of Medicine at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Professor, Geriatric Medicine at the Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Tell Your Insurance Company You’ve Made

The Excellent Choice!

Aubrey Knight, M.D. , F.A.A.

540.767.6800

1009 Old Country Club Road, Roanoke, VA www.RoanokeUnitedMethodistHome.com

Phone: 540-725-1314, 6450-A Merriman Road, Roanoke

Page 12 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 8/13/10 - 8/19/10

NewsRoanoke.com

World’s Top Coin Collectors in Town Next Week to Purchase All Types of Coins

By CHRISTINA BUTLER STAFF WRITER

ICCA will be placing ads in newspapers, radio and running television spots this week asking people to bring in any old silver and gold coins made before 1965. Those that do bring in their coins will be able to speak with collectors one on one and have their coins looked at with an expert set of eyes. With the help of these ICCA members offers will be made to those that have coins made before 1965. Offers will be made based on silver or gold content and the rarity of the coins. All coins made before 1965 will be examined and purchased including gold coins, silver coins, silver dollars, all types of nickels and pennies, Those that decide to sell their coins will be paid on the spot.

If you are like a lot of people you might have a few old coins or even a coffee can full lying around. If you have ever wondered what they are worth, now might be your chance to find out and even sell them if you choose. They could be worth a lot according to the International Coin Collectors Association also known as ICCA. Collectors will pay a fortune for some coins and currency for their collections. If they are rare enough, one coin could be worth over $100,000 according to Eric Helms coin collector and ICCA member. One ultra rare dime an 1894S Barber sold for a record $1.9 million to a collector in July of 2007. While that is an extreme example, many rare and valuable coins are stashed away in dresser drawers or lock boxes around the country. The ICCA and its collector members have organized a traveling event in search of all types of coins and currency. “Even common coins can be worth a significant amount due to the high price of silver and gold,” says Helms.

Washington quarters and Roosevelt dimes and worth many times their face value. Recent silver markets have driven the price up on even common coins made of silver. Helms explains: all half dollars, quarter and dimes made before 1965 contain 90% silver and are sought after any time silver prices rise. Right now it’s a sellers market he said.

The rarest coins these collectors are looking

What We Buy:

for include $20, $10, $5 and $2 1/2 gold coins and any coin made before 1850. These coins always bring big premiums according to the ICCA. Silver dollars are also very sought after nowadays.

Other types of items the ICCA will be purchasing during this event include U.S. currency, gold bullion, investment gold, silver bars, silver rounds, proof sets, etc. Even foreign coins are sought after and will be purchased.

So whether you have one coin you think might be valuable or a large collection you

FREE ADMISSION

CONTINUES IN ROANOKE NEXT WEEK, EVERY DAY TUESDAY - SATURDAY

AUGUST 17 - 21, 2010

NEXT T-F 9AM-6PM NEXT SAT 9AM-4PM COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT 3301 ORDWAY DRIVE ROANOKE, VA 24017 DIRECTIONS: (540) 563-5002 SHOW INFO: (217) 523-4225

PAPER MONEY

Including $20, $10, $5, $4, $3, $2.5, $1, Private Gold, Gold Bars, etc.

INVESTMENT GOLD

Kruggerands, Canadian Maple Leafs, Pandas, Gold Bars, U.S. Eagles and Buffalos, etc.

Here’s How It Works: • Gather items of interest from your attic, safe deposit box, garage, basement, etc. There is no limit to the amount of items you can bring • No appointment necessary • If interested in selling, we will consult our collector’s database to see if a buyer exists. 90% of all items have offers in our database • The offer is made on the spot on behalf of our collectors making the offer • If you decide to accept the offer, we will pay you on the spot!

• You get 100% of the offer with no hidden fees

WE BUY

GOLD & BROKEN JEWELRY

Recent Finds:

All denominations made before 1934.

GOLD COINS

For more information on this event visit the ICCA website at www. internationalcoincollectors.com.

Also at this event anyone can sell their gold jewelry, dental gold or anything made of gold on the spot. Gold is currently trading at over $1,100.00 per ounce near an all time high.

Bring anything you think might be gold and the collectors will examine, test and price it for free. If you decide to sell you will be paid on the spot – it has been an unknown fact that coin dealers have always paid more for jewelry and scrap gold than other jewelers and pawn brokers.

COINS

Any and all coins made before 1965, rare coins, entire collections, Silver Dollars, Half Dollars, Quarters, Dimes, Half Dimes, Nickels, Three Cent Pieces, Two Cent Pieces, Cents, Large Cents, Half Cents and all others.

recently inherited you can talk to these collectors for free and if your lucky you may have a rarity worth thousands. Either way, there is nothing to lose and it sounds like fun!

1893 Morgan PAID $1,800

MILLIONS SPENT!

1000 NATIONAL EVENTS!

SCRAP GOLD

Broken and unused jewelry, dental gold.

JEWELRY

Diamond rings, bracelets, earrings, loose diamonds, all gem stones, etc.

PLATINUM

1916 Mercury DIme PAID $2,800

1849 Gold Dollar PAID $8,500

Anything made of platinum.

SILVER

Flatware, tea sets, goblets, jewelry, etc. and anything marked sterling.

WAR ITEMS

Civil war, WWI AND II, all others, swords, daggers, bayonets, etc.

OTHER ANTIQUES

Guns, toys, trains, dolls, advertising, banks (basically anything old we want to see).

1932 Washington Quarter PAID $250

1803 $10 Gold PAID $14,000