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Community | News | Per spective

March 13, 2009

TheRoanokeStar.com

New Regional Jail almost ready for service Keith McCurdy

Healthy Outlook P4– Keith McCurdy discusses four key pillars that make up a healthy person.

New Digs

P6– Local officials and residents cut the ribbon this week on a renovated Gainsboro Library.

Fleming Rolls On P7– William Fleming holds on for a tough victory and heads to state final four.

“Today, we want you to leave here with a positive set of images,” remarked Western Virginia Regional Jail superintendent Charlie Poff on opening day of the new facility. Poff came out of retirement, as a deputy sheriff in Roanoke City, to oversee the project. At the opening ceremony, he praised local state lawmakers on hand for helping restore $11 million from Governor Tim Kaine’s original budget for the project. The final price tag for the regional jail in western Roanoke County soared

to some $112 million. The facility will including a video visitation system, enhelp alleviate jail overcrowding in the abling family members to stay in touch City of Salem, along with Franklin, with an inmate without traveling to the Montgomery and Roanoke jail. The prisoners housed Counties. there will either be on their Regional News “A model of regional coway to a state prison, or will operation,” said Poff to a be serving sentences of 12 room filled with local administrators, months or less. politicians and law enforcement offiThe Western Virginia Regional Jail, cials. which broke ground in February 2007, The new jail, scheduled to receive its will also be LEED certified for energyfirst group of 550-600 inmates by the saving and recycling measures, like end of the month, can house up to 800. saving and filtering rainwater for reIt features state of the art technology, use.

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VDOT hears it: don’t close rest stops The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) was taken to task Tuesday night at Northside Middle Ralph Smith at School, durpublic meeting the first ing: too many of 11 “pubVDOT workers in lic listening “white hats” s e s s i on s” being held across the state regarding possible service reductions caused by budget shortfalls. VDOT is considering closing 25 rest stops around the state, including four in the Salem district. Highway maintenance and the safety patrol service could also be curtailed, and regional management centers may be consolidated. These cost saving measures are being considered after the agency has already cut > CONTINUED P2: VDOT

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A mix of “seasoned law enforcement officers” and newly trained hires will help keep the peace, said Poff. He referred to residents surrounding the prison property in rural Dixie Caverns when pointing out design concessions, like the absence of tall guard towers, which were incorporated to make the jail look less like a prison. Noting the current over-crowded conditions at the Salem-Roanoke > CONTINUED P2: Regional Jail

[Downtown Roanoke]

Asphalt plant protestors have month to gear up

St. Patrick’s Day Parade!

Photo by Gene Marrano

Judy Conyers (right) rallies the troops.

Photos courtesy of Event Zone

R

oanoke’s St. Patrick’s Day parade is a popular tradition in the Star City - and one of the biggest in the mid-Atlantic and southeastern states. The HomeTown Bank Celtic Festival begins this Saturday (March 14) at 10:00am; the McDonald’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade will begin at 11:00am. It will include over 100 entries of all shapes and sizes. It

is estimated that at least 2,000 people will march in the parade. The site of the HomeTown Bank Celtic Festival has been relocated to the parking lots at the corner of Williamson Road and Church Avenue. Admission to the HomeTown Bank Celtic Festival is free. (See related story, “Dogs make unique Grand Marshals for St. Patrick’s Parade” on page 6.)

It has been well established that several residents in the Glenvar area do not want an asphalt plant built on West Main Street, on the site of an old Salem water treatment facility. The Blue Ridge Mountains that provide a backdrop to acres of open space in western Roanoke County may not be quite the same when masked by 75-foot tall asphalt processing towers, conveyor belts and dozens of trucks coming on site daily to load up. By contrast, the low-slung buildings abandoned by the City of Salem when it built a new water treatment plant elsewhere > CONTINUED P6: Asphalt

Mayor Bowers draws on roots / develops softer style second time around “Newcomer” Stephanie Koehler is a regular columnist for the Roanoke Star-Sentinel

Key Player P10– Nancy Agee displays strong leadership as Carilion’s Chief Operating Officer.

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As a relative newcomer to the region, I perhaps have a different perspective on local and regional politics than those who have lived in Roanoke most of their lives. While I actively seek out the knowledge needed to be part of the informed electorate, I, like many others like me, are less likely to be influenced by past drama and entrenched views. However, one subject has fascinated me since my arrival last spring: the love/hate relationship of Roanokers with Mayor David Bowers. Having previously lived through several very divisive mayoral elections – including the one in which DC residents reelected Marion Barry -- the drama of local politics fascinate me. So, I set out to do a little research of my own. Who is David Bowers? What makes him tick? Why does a person want to be Mayor once – let alone twice? And so on…. As I began my research, I asked a lot of people about their opinions of the Mayor. The responses were varied and amusing. When I asked the mayor himself, he

Photo by Stephanie Koehler

Roanoke Mayor David Bowers has always enjoyed being in the “catbird seat.” said, “a friend summed it up for me not quickly and positively -- graciously maklong ago. In my first term, people loved ing arrangements for me to meet with to hate me. In my second term, people him the very next week. hate to love me.” While spending the majority of his life in Roanoke, True to his campaign City Government pledge of “accessibility” – Bowers was actually born in I found gaining access to Cortland, New York where him was quite simple. When I called or some of his family remains. Having also emailed – he, or his assistant responded been raised in upstate NY, I have a very

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strong sense of what his family roots look like. Cortland is a town somewhat lost between the “big city” of Syracuse and the academic powerhouse of Ithaca, home of Cornell University. With manufacturing as a backbone, Cortland is primarily a working class community where the value of hard work and an honest handshake still stand for something. “My dad was a bread-truck driver -- I draw from those strong Irish working class roots,” Bowers said. “When I have to make a difficult decision, I simply ask, ‘what would the bread-truck drivers of the world say?’ Then I try to keep my humor and stand my ground.” Realizing that multiple campaigns for public office tends to air out every detail of one’s history -- I asked what people might not know about him. “I like Opera” he said. “[The] Symphony too.” He proudly showcases a photo of he and RSO’s Maestro Wiley on his desk. “I learned something from watching the Maestro as he starts a symphony performance,” he said. “With a single, deliberate gesture of his baton, the music > CONTINUED P2: Bowers

Page 2 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 3/13/09

TheRoanokeStar.com

> Regional Jail From page 1

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County jail, Roanoke County Sheriff Gerald Holt saluted the “much better working conditions,� at the new facility, where cells measure about 7’x 10’ and can be double-bunked if need be. There are rooms for training programs and both indoor and outdoor spaces for recreation. Local jails will revert to being holding places for overnight stays and those awaiting an imminent trial. Montgomery County supervisor Annette Perkins noted that the jail facility in her county typically houses about three times the inmates it is rated for. After the ceremony, Major David Cox was one of the law enforcement officers giving tours. He pointed out it’s “very practical in the way it’s designed,� from a safety standpoint – the safety of inmates and those watching them. “How sweet it is,� said retired Roanoke County Administrator Elmer Hodge, who helped spearhead the regional jail concept when he was in office. By Gene Marrano A view of the new Western Virginia Regional Jail. gmarrano@cox.net

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back on hundreds of construction projects due to a lack of funds. VDOT is looking at a $2.6 billion shortfall in the next fiscal year. Closing 25 of 41 rest stops statewide (Ironto and Botetourt County, in this area) could save $12 million annually. “We have reviewed all of these rest areas‌ to see which would be candidates for closure,â€? said VDOT commissioner David Ekern, who conducted a brief presentation before the public response. More than 50 speakers signed up to have their say, in-

cluding five state legislators and Roanoke Mayor David Bowers. State Senator Ralph Smith said VDOT should look elsewhere for inefficiencies in the way it operates, before the agency closes rest stops. “I think we can do better,� said Smith, who asked if private companies might want to run the rest areas. Smith also chided VDOT for having too many workers in “white hats� standing around at job sites. “We could use those dollars [elsewhere],� said the conservative lawmaker. Blacksburg delegate Dave

Nutter said the rest areas weren’t just places to use the bathroom, “these are safety rest areas.â€? It would be a “disservice to commerce,â€? if truckers and tourists passing through couldn’t find rest areas, added Nutter. Lenny Gregory, with Fleetmaster Express in Roanoke, said he could not “imagine the chaos‌ when people are forced to get off at various exits to seek facilities.â€? Expect to see more tired long haul drivers pulling off on interstate shoulders to catch a few winks, said Gregory, despite the

fact that they can be fined $91 for doing so. One of his drivers was fined for being parked on a shoulder earlier that day. VDOT officials will huddle with the Commonwealth Transportation Board after the listening tour is over to consider any final decisions on rest stop closures and other issues. “Safety is on the chopping block,� Gregory told VDOT officials, “[and] that will result in lives lost.�

he proudly referred to his website about a “friendly mayor.� “When I was younger, I wanted to be the stimulus. I wanted to drive the re-birth of the city,� he said. “Now I am more focused on being a healer, helping people get past their distrust of government and those who run it.� David Bowers clearly likes the give and take of democracy. He enjoys the process – even if it is messy. While he is certainly active around town, attending many events, meeting people and pressing palms, he will quickly tell you he wouldn’t be considered a “socialite.� “A friend once told me I am not a mover and a shaker -- just a mover. I’m ok with that,� he said. The thing that struck me perhaps the most in my meetings with Mayor Bowers, was the intensity in which he listens and his desire to connect with people. When a mutual interest in history related to the civil rights movement emerged from a conversation about his current reading list (he’s currently reading The Senator and the Sharecropper by Chris Meyers Asch), he was quick to offer an invitation to join him at his Kiwanis lunch the following day so I could meet Howard Highland, the onsite fellow for the Oliver Hill Community Law Clinic at Washington and Lee. “Oliver Hill was from Roanoke,� he said. “That’s an important part of our history.�

I was also struck by how warmly people respond to him – from the people we greeted on the walk downtown to those present at Kiwanis. Contrary to the rumblings and grumblings of those quick to share their opinions of local politicians – people seem to like him. “You know, I got my first college scholarship from the downtown Kiwanis Club� he said as we walked back to his office. “I never forget that. I think the ‘bread truck drivers of world’ would respect that sentiment.� As I continue to formulate my opinion of local politics and its players, I am reminded that democracy doesn’t mean always getting your own way, but rather means finding the place where people feel heard and the best interest of the majority rises above the interest of a select few. As the old adage goes, “you can’t satisfy 100% of the people 100% of the time�. Mayor Bowers has a pretty good understanding of that, and takes the good with the bad. So, whether “you love to hate him or hate to love him� – there is no disputing -- he loves this city and is doing his best to find the balance between honoring the roots of the Roanoke community and helping it find its place in the ever expanding world.

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

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emerges either soft and gentle or loud and thundering. I like to start city council meetings the same way – you’ll know by the way my gavel hits the table what kind of meeting it will be.� When asked when he decided he wanted to be mayor, he tells about a very specific day in his teenage life. “It was the ground breaking ceremony of the civic center here in Roanoke,� he said. “I took the bus downtown. There were crowds of people and TV cameras. I got to meet Mayor Dillard. I liked the ceremony and circumstance that surrounded him� he said. Even at this early age, Bowers clearly understood the value of economic development and growth. “I liked the idea of being able to affect change, so from that day forward, I knew what I wanted,� he said. Shortly after, he ran his first successful – and controversial -- election, becoming president of the student council at Patrick Henry High School. Bowers was first elected to Roanoke City Council in 1984, serving 16 years -- the last eight as mayor. When asked about his first term legacy, “Hotel Roanoke is still the strongest economic development driver in the city,� he said. “I am really proud of the role I played in making that happen.� When asked to compare his first term approach to this one –

Gainsboro Family YMCA hosts 77th Annual FatherSon-Family Banquet The 77th Annual YMCA Father-Son-Family Banquet, one of the longest running family-focused programs in the city, will be held Saturday evening, March 14, beginning at 5:00 pm at High Street Baptist Church. Originally established as the Father-Son Banquet, the

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Michael Smith, Branch Director of the Gainsboro Family YMCA. "In the earliest days, it was dads bringing their sons, having a special parent-child evening together, and it was very important in the fabric of this community," Smith said. "Now we have a wide range of family relationships--grandparents, foster parents, various adult caregivers and mentors---all of them caring about showing kids the right paths for life. It's the old 'village raising a child' idea, and this banquet lets us really focus on the kids of the community." Dr. Pink Winbush is the featured speaker for the program, which will also include several family testimonies. Cost for the banquet is $8.00 per person. For more information, or for reservations, contact the Gainsboro Family YMCA at 344-9622.

TheRoanokeStar.com

Williams hopes to keep 17th District seat in GOP hands A Roanoke lawyer and part-time pastor who often acts as a court-appointed attorney in Roanoke, Melvin Williams also believes that people need to do it on their own sometimes, without government intervention. “Smaller government is better government,” said the William & Mary Law School graduate on Monday, when he announced outside his Elm Avenue law office that he would seek the Republican nomination for the 17th District seat in the Virginia House of Delegates. Fellow Republican William Fralin is retiring after three terms, citing increased workload at Medical Facilities of America. Williams, 36, harkened back to the pioneers that settled America when he said, “they didn’t ask for a handout…there was no safety net for them.” Also serving as a board member for the Acts 2 Ministry and Local Colors, Williams said “yes, people do need help from time to time,” but he wants to see communities and faith-based organizations get more involved. Law partner Terry Grimes introduced Williams, promising that his junior partner, “comes from good stock.” Small “g” government is what Williams says he wants. He stated that a hands-off approach from government is “what allows small businesses to flourish. I seek to continue that tradition that’s made America great. I trust that there are many people like me in the 17th District.” Williams is the first GOP candidate to officially declare an intention to run for Fra-

Melvin Williams lin’s seat. The District covers parts of Roanoke City and portions of Roanoke County and Botetourt County. Williams said he is ready to work across party lines and considers Delegate Onzlee Ware (D-11th District, Roanoke City and Vinton) “a friend.” “I think he would say the same about me. I certainly want to work with Onzlee [and others] …to do what’s best for the Roanoke Valley,” he said. There is a place for government when people have no other options Williams conceded, but the first option should be assistance from the communities. He also works with defendants that cannot pay their child support, due to a lack of work or other conditions. “The government needs to be there at times,” said Williams, whose grandfather was a member of the House of Delegates in Maryland. “I’ve always had an interest in pubBy Gene Marrano lic service.” gmarrano@cox.net

Bent Mountain Elementary gets a reprieve On the same day the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors approved a resolution supporting the sale of $50 million in bonds for renovations of four schools (Green Valley, Cave Spring, Mount Pleasant elementary schools; plus William Byrd High School), the Roanoke County School Board decided not to close Bent Mountain Elementary School – at least for now. The county school system is trying to remedy a projected $7.1 million shortfall in the 2009-2010 budget. During a work session Tuesday, board members said they would back Superintendent Dr. Lorraine Lange’s recommendation that as a cost saving measure, Bent Mountain instead will operate with a reduced staff this fall. In addition, principal Karen Mabry will move to Back Creek Elementary, which lost principal Jodi Poff to another school, and Bent Mountain will operate with an acting principal, Virginia Sharp. Lange read her recommendation from a prepared statement. Bent Mountain is not out of the woods just yet – its status will be reevaluated during the budget cycle again next year. If the economy continues to falter and tax revenues and state funds are down, the 68-student school could be shuttered, with Back Creek receiving those children. Residents in the area are fiercely loyal to their school and see it as a social hub. “This is extremely tough on the Bent Mountain community,” conceded school board chair Drew Barrineau. Other cost saving measures: the Roland E. Cook alternative school will move to a smaller facility in Vinton, what is now the Craig Recreation Center, with a staff reduction from 8 to 5. Laptops for high school students will be recycled, with 9th graders getting those used by seniors this year. In addition, students will no longer be permitted to bring the laptops home – the county feels they will be subject to less wear and tear if they are placed on carts after being used at school. The school system is also seeking a reduction in the tuition charged for gifted students in the Governor’s School program.

About a dozen people from Bent Mountain attended the work session; the School Board will vote on all of the school administration recommendations this Thursday, March 12. By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

Mason throws her hat in the ring M o n d a y the announceproved to be ment) worked a busy day for as a state senate those hoping to page during the succeed the rerecent Assemtiring William bly session. Fralin (R-17th “I’m going to District) in the learn from her,” General Assemjoked Mason, bly’s House of who heard about Delegates. the complexiDemocrat ties of commitGwen Mason tee work from made it official, her daughter, a announcing she James Madison would seek her Middle School Gwen Mason party’s nomistudent who nation. Mason has political asheld her news conference at pirations of her own. the Higher Education Center, Mason - who would resign calling it the type of public- from city council if she wins private partnership she would the general election - comes like to see more of. from a family where politics Republican attorney Melvin and civic activism were norWilliams declared his candi- mal dinner table topics; the dacy Monday as well. former Clinton AdministraThe night before Mason’s tion employee at the Dept. of announcement, fellow city the Interior also said she had council member David Trinkle a good understanding of the released a statement, saying relationship between state and that he would not run against local government. his “sister” for the Democratic “I know I have those skills nomination, which will be de- to bring [to the table],” Mason cided by June. said. “The decision was difficult, Mason calls the three levels as I believe this is a seat the of government – including the Democrats can win and I feel I federal level – a “marble cake could bring much deliberative that is intertwined. Any time decision-making to the issues you have an understanding that the Commonwealth will at any level of government, it be facing over the next few helps you.” years: especially job creation “I’d like to think that I’m a and health care delivery and consensus builder … and a costs,” wrote Trinkle, who said problem solver,” said Mason, he might consider a run down well known for her Clean and the road for a state office. Green campaign in Roanoke “I also believe we have City, which will receive the weathered a lot of change re- Governor’s Award for Excelcently in city council and it lence next week. would be wise to avoid too In a district that skews Remuch further upheaval. Final- publican (parts of Roanoke ly, I do relish my job serving County, Roanoke City and the citizens of Roanoke and Botetourt) she is now hoping would miss that day-to-day to clean up at polling places role,” Trinkle added. this year. Mason may face a Flanked by Democrat stal- primary if another Democrat warts, including city coun- announces a run for the 17th cil members Sherman Lea District seat. and Rupert Cutler, Roanoke County Supervisor Charlotte Moore, Commonwealth’s Attorney Don Caldwell and By Gene Marrano former Mayor Nelson Harris, gmarrano@cox.net Mason recognized Fralin for leaving partisanship behind and working with other legislators for the good of the Roanoke Valley. “We owe [Fralin] a great deal of respect and admiration,” said Mason, whose daughter Grace (on hand for

3/13/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 3

Martin Jeffrey seeks Democratic nomination for Ware’s Delegate seat

Onzlee Ware of political action will have some committees and competition for a string of alcohis 11th District hol and tobacco seat in the Virpurveyors,” have ginia House of influenced Ware’s Delegates – from votes. within his own It’s not personparty. Fellow al, but a recogniDemocrat Martion of “political tin Jeffrey has reality,” a rejection Martin Jeffrey thrown down the of the status quo gauntlet, alleging and money that that the three-term incumbent buys elections, said Jeffrey. “It’s lacks the vision needed for the about furthering the change in job. Jeffrey, a former president our political dynamics,” added of the local NAACP chapter, Jeffrey, who contends, “there is announced his candidacy for no vision for what we want this the Democratic nomination district to be … five or ten years outside the City Market build- out. What are we really working last weekend. No Repub- ing for?” lican has announced a bid for If there is a vision, he also the seat, located in a heavily said it’s too pro-business and Democratic district. not geared towards “regular “The hallmark of this cam- folk.” Zero tolerance for high paign and my tenure as a state school dropouts and a trust legislator will be to establish fund to support local arts orgaa clear vision for the district nizations are two items on Jefand to be an effective advocate frey’s agenda, as is an improved for the people who live in the health care system that covers district,” said Jeffrey. “[Ware] more people in the valley. has failed to address the needs “We have the capacity…to of his constituents, as he has fashion a model whereby we been otherwise occupied by can guarantee every resident special interests, collecting of the district … basic health over $70,000 in 2007 alone care,” Jeffery said. from outside this district and Local leadership “firmly com…from across the US.” mitted to the national agenda,” Jeffrey, who calls himself “a as outlined by President Obama born advocate,” looks to Ba- is a must, said Jeffrey, who over rack Obama for some of his the years has worked with TAP, inspiration: “November the 4th developing social programs, changed everything in terms of and has served on a number of our politics, in terms of what’s non-profit boards. He is also a possible…what’s necessary, in business consultant, currently terms of the need for personal living in the Gainsboro area responsibility and response. All with his wife, Sharon. Jeffrey of us have to make sure we have is the father of four children. the right kind of leadership.” Assuming the Board of ElecFor his part, Jeffrey said he tions approves the signatures would not accept campaign he collects, Ware (challenged contributions from outside the by Democrat Mac McCadden 11th District, which encom- in the past) and Jeffrey would passes Roanoke City and parts most likely face off in a primary of the Vinton area. Jeffrey won- for the nomination. dered aloud while making his announcement if contributors that he claimed included “a litaBy Gene Marrano ny of payday lenders, lobbyists, gmarrano@cox.net car title loan makers, a long list

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Perspective

Page 4 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 3/13/09

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to deal with our stress, I would argue, is more vital. Over the years vacationing on the hurricane frequented Outer Banks of North Carolina I have noticed that the survival of beach homes is based more often on their foundations than anything else. Some of the most simple and unattractive structures are still there due to the soundness of the pillars that make up their foundation. If you are attempting to survive this current economic and emotional storm, ask yourself, “Do I have a healthy or firm foundation? What pillars keep my structure strong?” Think of a foundation pillar as a muscle. A muscle is only beneficial if it is regularly worked or exercised. If it is not continually used, it atrophies, becomes useless and adds stress to the system around it. Here are four basic

pillars that make up tive and to become a healthy person: mentally stagnant, Physical, Mental, so ask yourself, do Social/Emotional, you purposefully and Spiritual. focus and comment Physical: To on the positive? keep the physical Are you stimulatpart of you strong, ing your brain by think about the reading or learnbasics; Sleep, exering a new skill or cise, healthy diet, base of knowledge? Keith McCurdy rest and relaxation, Have you been tryhygiene. Are you ing anything new sleeping 8-10 hours a night? or are you stuck in a rut, doing Do you get regular cardio- the same things day after day? vascular exercise 3-5 times a Is there a hobby that you purweek? Do you have healthy sue that stimulates you? eating habits? Do you pursue Social/Emotional: This activities for pure enjoyment may be a strange combination and relaxation? Do you look to some but remember that good and stay clean? our emotional development Mental: To stay mentally is directly driven by our sohealthy keep these things in cial integration. The healthier check; Positive focus, read, our social support system, the learn something new, have more emotionally balanced we new experiences, pursue a typically will be. Do you have hobby. It is easy in these times friends and are you active with to only dwell on the nega- them? Are you pursuing so-

So long, for now . . .

with other ham radio operators t’s amazing how memories flood all over the globe. He kept track one’s mind when the pressure is of these people and tried to make on to write a story. When asked contact with them when he was on to write one last ‘signing-off ’ article, the radio. It was fascinating. I still my mind went to days gone by. remember hearing him whoop and When I was a little girl I remember holler when he made contact with so well the sounds of my father on his someone far, far away. ham radio. Our modest home was There were certain code words marked by an enormous radio tower. that were common language for The scaffolding for the antennae was Diane Kelly ham radio operators. On signattached to the back of the house and ing off for the evening he would reached past the roof, making the large antennae high enough to send and receive say, “Okay. I’m signing off now. Ten-four good radio waves to other ham radio operators. It buddy.” It was a way of agreeing that each one was off of the radio. The communication was even rotated to make better connections. It wasn’t just anyone who could operate such over for the night. So here my friends, is my last signing off a system in their home. One had to study and pass a test to have the privilege of communi- for awhile. I’ll be packing up and moving to cating by way of the grand antennae including Tampa Florida with my husband, Michael, so being able to tap out and understand Morse that he can complete a year-long Fellowship in code. My dad was very proud of this opera- Spinal Cord Injury. We leave in June, but with tor’s license. He proudly sported his ham radio a household of things to do, I thought it best to number on his car’s license plate for years. He trim my activities. I was asked to write a ‘signing off ’ article to loved to talk to folks on his home radio. The basement became my dad’s radio station you, and here it is: “Okay. I’m signing off now. of sorts and his window to the world. Surround- Ten-four good buddy.” ing him were all sorts of machines, transistors, microphones, and maps. On the maps were pins Contact Diane at marking the places where he had made contact dianekelly@gmail.com

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“Peaced together” or stressed out?

he last several months have been quite eye opening to most of us as we watch our economic struggles unfold. Almost everywhere you turn there are ideas about how to deal with the drop in the market, the decline in the housing industry, the mortgage crisis. Depending on what paper you read and on which day, you may be told to “buy gold”, “get out of the market”, “now is the time to invest”, etc. In psychological terms, it is quite schizophrenic. During this time, one thing is for sure, we are more stressed. Clinically we see more sleep problems, higher levels of anxiety and depression, an increase in a sense of hopelessness and helplessness and an overall decrease in life satisfaction. Regardless of which strategy we each choose to employ to deal with the financial crisis, how we choose

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By Don Waterfield

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

cial activities? Do you give support to others and receive in kind? Is there someone you can share your emotions with and do you share your emotions with others? Are you surrounding yourself with healthy, fun people or are you surrounded by complainers? Spiritual: What is your sense of purpose? What gives meaning to your life? These may sound like simple questions, but our ability to answer them in a real way sets the stage for Hope in our lives during difficult times. In these difficult times we are experiencing, it is clear that we are not in control. This however does not mean we should be without Hope. Having the awareness that God is in control, yet not controlling, is what gives Hope. God does not always calm the storm, but he does always provide us with a path through it. Know-

ing that this path is provided can bring a sense of Peace even in the struggle. To be in touch with this, we need to be involved with God. Do you go to church or have a place of worship? Do you spend time in prayer or study? Do you share your faith with others? The challenge is not to do a complete evaluation of your life and see what is missing, it is much simpler. Just pick one or two things in each category to begin applying daily. You can’t build a complete structure in a day, it needs to be done brick by brick, and ultimately its stability is based on the soundness of its foundation. We can’t always prevent the storms of life, but we can weather them. Contact Keith at psycyou@msn.com

Preacher’s Corner “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” By Rev Barkley Thompson

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here is lead ash in the ice on Greenland. The presence of lead there is three hundred percent more than one would expect naturally to find. It’s a curious reality as well as a dangerous one. For the longest time scientists were perplexed by the ash, and it was assumed that it would forever be among the earth’s unsolved geologic mysteries. However the lead became trapped in the ice, it will surely now be there forever. We want to live forever. Oh, there are some of us who will deny it. But our desire is betrayed by the ways in which we live our lives. Both personally and corporately, we create things that will outlast us—like monuments, skyscrapers, museums, and one hundred twenty-year-old churches. We put our names on memorials, scholarships, events, and buildings. We amass (or try to amass) fortunes that will continue to live through our descendents, almost as if through their inheritance a piece of us will continue living. As a gift to the future, none of these is bad, and in fact they can all do immeasurable good. But we must also acknowledge the uglier underside of our striving for immortality. In addition to leaving testimonials to future generations, we also leave a darker legacy. With our pretensions to immortality we act toward one another and toward the good earth as if there are no consequences, as if we—like little gods—can do what we will and start each day afresh. As the current economic morass has so painfully revealed, we live unsustainably in every way. We eat up our financial resources, our human resources, and our environmental resources, leaving proverbial ash where once life was vibrant. Sadly, it is our negative legacies that most closely approach immortality. Long after anything explicitly connected with any of us is gone, the lingering effects of our regular and casual misuse of our world will live on to affect generations who may remember nothing of us but our shame. The desire to live forever is not new. Throughout the broad scope of human history, people have coveted immortality, and then, as now, they enacted their pretensions by living as though there lives bore no consequences. You see, we now know why there is lead ash on Greenland. Some years ago enterprising scientists paid attention to the geologic strata where the ash is found and were able to date it to a period around the first century before Christ, a time when Roman entrepreneurs discovered silver and gold in the hills of Spain. Without thought of consequence, the Romans built giant, hell-like furnaces to smelt those precious metals. Ancient writers talk of

clouds of ash that could be seen for miles, of birds that would drop dead from the sky when traveling near it, of forty thousand slaves condemned to work around and breathe in leaded poison, all so that the Romans might adorn themselves in silver and gold to resemble the gods.That lead, emitted into the air on what scientists call “a hemispheric scale,” wafted northward until it was trapped in Greenland’s icepack, a deadly gift left us by the Romans, a deadly form of immortality. Just days ago Christians across the globe observed Ash Wednesday—the beginning of the season of Lent—and the very intention of that day is to be a reminder of our mortality. Christians went to church and had ash smudged on their foreheads with the words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” On Ash Wednesday, we recall how all the endeavors in which we place so much effort and devotion in this life—monuments, inheritances, even august church buildings—will, like us, eventually crumble into dust. But just as importantly we will also remember the ash we leave behind. I pray throughout Lent we will dwell upon the ways in which our worst legacies threaten to overshadow our best. As but one example, consider that the same deadly lead trapped in Greenland’s ice through the actions of the Romans two thousand years ago may soon melt into our oceans through actions of our own. Of course, the great irony is that we do enjoy true immortality. With and in God, our promise is that we will live forever. Were we to lay our unspoken anxieties and fears about death at the feet of the God who gives life, we might find that we could tread in this life more lightly. We might discover the light of the immortal God that shines in all people, and we might then treat our brothers and sisters differently, both those we know personally and those masses we don’t know and are as yet unborn who nevertheless are often on the receiving end of our decisions. We might recognize the goodness that God declares in his creation and cherish it rather than use it and use it up. If we believed God’s promise—that we will abide with him always—then perhaps we would live for his immortal glory instead of striving for our own.

St. John’s Episcopal Church is located at the corner of Jefferson and Elm in downtown Roanoke, with Sunday services at 7:45 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 5:00 p.m.

The Roanoke Star-Sentinel C o m mu n i t y | N ew s | Pe r s p e c t i ve Publisher | Stuart Revercomb | stuart@theroanokestar.com | 400-0990 Features Editor | Pam Rickard | pam@theroanokestar.com | 400-0990 News Editor | Gene Marrano | gmarrano@cox.net | 400-0990 Production Editor | Stephen Nelson | stephen@theroanokestar.com | 400-0990 Technical Webmaster | Don Waterfield | webmaster@theroanokestar.com | 400-0990 Advertising Director | Vickie Henderson | advertising@theroanokestar.com | 400-0990 The Roanoke Star-Sentinel is published weekly by Whisper One Media, Inc. in Roanoke,Va. Subscriptions are available for $44 per year. Send subscriptions to PO Box 8338, Roanoke,VA 24014. We encourage letters from our readers on topics of general interest to the community and responses to our 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. All real estate advertised herein is subject to national and Virginia fair housing laws and readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Perspective

3/13/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 5

TheRoanokeStar.com

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hat’s what the sign outside a West Texas grill reads. I guess they were referring to the portion size/goodness ratio of their offerings, but it occurs to me that that it could be used as an American motto. The problem is, as everyone knows, that in our quest to get more and not be satisfied with less we have spent more money (about a gazillion times more) than anybody has. Now all we do is complain about our misfortune. If you take the time to look up per capita income there are interesting data. According to the CIA Fact Book, the United States is not number 1. Lichtenstein is first ($118,000), followed by Qatar, Luxembourg, Bermuda, and Kuwait. We are number 10 at $48,000. Japan is 34th, China 132nd, and Zimbabwe brings up the rear at 229th, with an annual per capita income of <$200. Qatar and Kuwait are understandable with their oil

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Too Much Ain’t Enough

deposits. Lichtenstein, Luxembourg, and Bermuda pose a different answer: Not many people and a lot of money. In the two tiny European nations more people commute to work in Lichtenstein and Luxembourg than live there. In Bermuda, money lives in Hamilton, not people; that’s because of favorable tax laws. There many ways to look at the Purchasing Power Parity as it’s called but if you cut to the chase the United States is certainly closer to the head of the class than tenth place. In the field of medical care we are definitely number one when it comes to cost. We like to think we are offer the best quality, but that’s far from true. Countless surveys have indicated that we rank only slightly ahead of some under-developed countries and are 17th in overall healthcare performance. How are these data sets related? First, we have a lot of money in this country and we do not have a health care

system that is commensurate with that. We are not getting our money’s worth and everyone knows it. President Obama has convened a multi-disciplined task force to address the problem. Whatever he does, rest assured it will be criticized. “He’s trying to do too much too fast.� “He should work just on the economy.� “He should be more focused on Iran.� We’ve heard it all. The list is endless and the problems are, too, so let’s just stick to health care and just one portion of it: Delivery. There is no way that the level of care we have come to expect can be affordably delivered to everyone. Some will have to do with less in order that others may have more. If one is well covered by personal income and health insurance, a higher out-of pocket expense will be needed to aid those that can’t afford even basic care. That requires means testing,

an idea abhorrent can have cardiac to many. It’s a govsurgery done in ernmental Robin India at about ten Hood; it brings percent of the cost to mind the “S� here. Not only can word. you fly first class Today we hear and recuperate in a lot about Soa five-star hotel cialism. When in New Delhi, the we look closely at quality of the care socialized sys- Hayden Hollingsworth is as good as any tems of medical medical center in care there is much confu- the United States. sion. If you talk to citizens No one knows how we in countries that have the will solve the delivery probgovernment as single payer lem. There will be multiple the sky doesn’t seemed to answers and one thing is cerhave fallen. All of them rank tain: We’re not going to like much higher in overall per- most of them. formance than we do. Their Maybe Winston Churchill access to non-emergent care was right. He said, “The is quite different. Elective great vice of capitalism is the procedures sometimes re- unequal sharing of wealth; quire a multi-year wait while the great virtue of socialism in this country you can get it is the equal sharing of misdone next week (if you have ery.� insurance). There’s more than enough Because of the expense misery to go around and of our care a whole new in- complaining loudly about dustry has arisen: Medical it does nothing to help the tourism. Google that and problem. When talk radio in .21 seconds one gener- and TV hosts blather on ates 18 million hits. You about how awful things are

going to be I am reminded of a former President who said that free speech does not give anyone the right to shout “FIRE!� in a crowded theater. Television is now our theater and most of the heated rhetoric about health care does little more than inflate the egos of the speakers. We can hope they will morph into hot-air gas bags and just float away. “Too Much Ain’t Enough.� We had better amend that to “Let’s Make Do with What We Have.� At least that will be a start.

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Losing a sibling at any age is a difficult walk

y good friend Charles somecerns about my own health pale before brother dies, your childhood fades, there being times e-mails me copies of my fears about my children’s. I recall one less person to remember it with, and you are Garrison Keillor’s column all the near-misses I’ve had in my life left disinherited, unarmed, semi-literate, an exile. T-F 3-7 pm, Sat 12-6 pm, Sun 1-5 The Old Scout, which I enjoy receiving while on bikes, driving in cars, riding It’s like losing your computer and from him. I suppose I could just downin cars, and the near-miss my brother there’s no backup.� load them from Keillor’s website, but couldn’t avoid, and I worry about my The analogy is timely and there is something special about a friend kids and their own future dances with mostly accurate, except that in who reads things and takes the time to fate. I think about what my own parents life, a backup is never even an share them with you. It’s like getting went through when my brother died option a gift. Charles bears a striking resemand question why I’d ever want to take a blance to the bard of Lake Wobegon, chance on feeling that way. David Perry although that is something he probably (The saddest thing I ever saw was Contact David at would not have wanted said about him when I was driving my old wood-pandave@davidperryonline.com in print. (Charles, that is.) eled 1983 Mercury Marquis station wagon to see This past week Charles sent me the latest Old my future wife while in college. Lulled into that Scout in which Keillor relates his brother Phillip’s semi-lucid state created by the passing of endless recent passing. Phillip, 71, had died from a head miles of highway, I was jerked back to reality when injury suffered while ice skating. As always, Keil- a beautiful monarch butterfly splatted against lor told his tale with a certain detachment that my windshield and hung there on the comes with age (I guess) but also the detachment windshield wiper. It was so delicate and I am the slowest that is central to Keillor’s world view. He seems perfect and it died so quickly. I tried to to be both living his life and observing it in equal shake it loose by turning on the wipers, carpet cleaner in Roanoke. parts, which takes a unique self-awareness. Ironi- but it just stuck there, flapping in the 65cally, most people are too self-absorbed to under- mph breeze.) stand that self-reflection is even an option. It’s always hard to describe to someone I lost a brother myself, ten summers ago when he else what it feels like to lose a brother. was 21 and I was 26. Of course, anyone who makes It’s a bond that is equal parts friendship, it to 71 can certainly be said to have lived his share family, and adversary. When my brother I will give your of years relative to those that are taken too early first passed away, I caught myself wantin life. And my brother went suddenly, while Keil- ing to tell him things and, of course, not carpet the time lor’s lingered on for days after his accident. Still, I being able to. There are some things and attention doubt that even the world-wise, detached Keillor only a brother can understand and apit deserves to felt much differently than I did. Loss is loss. preciate. When a brother dies, that part 0QFO UP 1VCMJD produce the best 4BU .BSDI BN QN Having children makes one acutely aware of the of you that connected to him in that spe4VO .BSDI BN QN results possible. preciousness of life. I wonder if I should run with cial way dies, too, and leaves an empty .PO .BSDI UISPVHI 'SJ .BSDI BN QN my headphone volume softer so I can hear the cars, spot inside. )BMG QSJDF 8FFLFOE of if I really need those fries and that cheeseburger. But I think Garrison Keillor gets it. 4BU .BSDI BN QN 2 rooms and a hall for $75 I want my children’s dad to be around. But con- He summed it up like so: “When your 4VO .BSDI BN QN

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The Recipe of the Week from The Happy Chef by Leigh Sackett

Corned Beef and Cabbage In chapel this week my preschoolers and I talked about St. Patrick’s Day. I shared with them a four leaf clover that my daughter found when she was about their age. Maddie and I had pressed the clover so it would last forever or at least for a very long time, but of course it doesn’t look quite as green and fresh as it once did. Sometimes we may feel like our lucky clover has deteriorated and our “luck has run out.� But no matter what the day may look like, no matter what the future holds and no matter what story the past might tell; God’s blessings are always there for us, everyday - we just need to be open to them in every moment. So cook some Corned Beef and Cabbage and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and know that we are ALL so very lucky! 4 1/2 pounds corned beef brisket 5 black peppercorns 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 onion, peeled and left whole 2 bay leaves 1 pinch salt 1 small head cabbage, cored and cut into wedges 6 large potatoes, quartered 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons butter -In a 6 quart Dutch oven, Place the beef brisket, peppercorns, garlic powder, onion, bay leaves and salt. -Fill pan with water to cover everything plus one inch. Bring to a boil and cook for 20 minutes. ---Skim off any residue that floats to the top.

-Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 2 to 3 hours, until meat can be pulled apart with a fork. -Once the meat is done, add the cabbage, potatoes and carrots, pressing them down into the liquid. -Simmer for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. -Skim off any oil that comes to the surface. -Stir in the butter and parsley. -Remove the pot from the heat. Remove meat from the pot and place onto a serving dish and let rest for 15 minutes. -Also remove vegetables to a bowl and keep warm. -Slice meat on the diagonal against the grain. -Serve meat on a platter and spoon juices over meat and vegetables.

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Page 6 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 3/13/09

Roanoke Star of the Week Sally Southard was born and raised in Annapolis, Maryland, where she graduated from high school. She came to Roanoke College and received a degree in psychology and then went to the University of Virginia for her Bachelors degree in Nursing and a Masters Degree in Pediatric Nursing. She is employed by Carilion Sally Southard Childrens Hospital as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Sally is Chairman of the Salem City School Board, serves on the Board of Directors of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the American Lung Association. Sally met her husband, Bob, while attending Roanoke College. They have two children, Rachel, who attends James Madison University, and Eric who is a senior at Salem High School. They live in Salem. Sally's favorite things are the Mill Mountain Zoo, various festivals in Downtown Roanoke, Lake Spring park in Salem, Carlo's, Mac and Bob's, and Alexanders, By Jim Bullington Have someone in mind for “Roanoke Star of the Week?� E-mail Jim Bullington: JBullPhoto@Hotmail.com

SW County Girl Scout earns Silver Award Girl Scout Sara Clark, a ninth grader at Cave Spring High School in southwest Roanoke County, identified a need to improve public education for fire safety while performing community service with Roanoke County Fire and Rescue. To meet that need, she developed and implemented a new fire safety public education program. In doing so, Clark has earned the Silver Award, the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can achieve. During a four month period, Sara attended workshops to better educate herself on fire safety and prevention. She also gathered materials to use in her presentations and developed teaching materials such as a skit to teach children about the right and wrong things to do in a fire. After assembling a public education team called The Firehouse Five, Sara presented her fire safety presentation to the public with the help of her team and a public educator. The Girl Scout Silver Award represents a girl's accomplishments in Girl Scouting and her community as she grows and works to improve her life and the lives of others. Sara, 15, is the daughter of Debbie and William Clark of Roanoke. She is a member of Girl Scout Troop 546/1912 of Trefoil service unit, part of Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline Council.

BAKE CAKES?

Decorating & Tasting Contest support maternal care

TheRoanokeStar.com

Renovated, expanded Gainsboro Library is a true community center Roanoke City Public Library officials and local residents cut the ribbon earlier this week on a renovated and expanded Gainsboro branch (15 Patton Ave.). The Gainesboro branch now features a larger book collection, a community room and twice the floor space. Director of Libraries Sheila Umberger said that more than 300 people attended Tuesday’s festivities, part of a weeklong celebration that continues into this weekend. The addition to the back of the building was designed to be “compatible� with the original 1942 structure, said Umberger, along with window upgrades and repairs to the slate roof in the original library facility. The project actually came in under the $1 million price tag said Umberger, who oversees seven branches and two “E-Library� locations at Valley View Mall and in Garden City. The original Gainsboro library branch, built back in the days of segregation, was a project spearheaded by longtime librarian Virginia Y. Lee. For some 20 years, the library was housed at several different locations before the Patton Avenue structure was built. There is a now a space named after Lee at the renovated branch, which remained open for all but one week during the renovation. The Lee room now features a fireplace and wood flooring, with custom wood shelving and what Umberger calls “a spe-

cial collection of African-American genealogy.� The project also provided additional space for afterschool tutoring and group studies, as well as $175,000 worth of new books, 1,200 DVD’s and new computers. The Gainsboro branch will offer job seeker workshops and computer skills classes that Umberger said were in high demand these days. A teen center, two large restrooms, a community room with space for 125 people and an outdoor patio are also new features, along with upgraded furniture, carpeting and a new heating/cooling system. “The teen center was packed [on opening day],� said Umberger. Attendance has boomed at Roanoke City Libraries in recent years and the newly renovated Jackson Park library has seen book checkouts go up by 68% since 2005. Umberger wants to renovate another branch soon; “we’re still talking about that,� she said. The system is looking for land it wants to use for a “super branch.� Capital money has been allocated for library projects and Umberger feels they have done a good job of “maximizing� those funds. “It’s really wonderful to have a facility that begins to match the community support for this branch. To see [local residents] have such a positive reaction kind of confirms that we’re on the right track,�

Roanoke Mayor David Bowers was one of several city officials on hand for the opening.

Umberger said. Friday and Saturday grand opening week activities include: Wii gaming for seniors, a nutritional eating seminar, family photography workshops and a community open house this Saturday from 2:30 pm -5:00 pm, featuring the Fat Daddy Band. Call 853-2540 for more information or visit roanokeva.gov/library

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

> Asphalt From page 1

seem to blend in. Salem wants to sell the property to Adams Construction, providing that Roanoke County will rezone it from light industrial I-1 to heavy industrial I-2. Local residents are worried about toxic fumes, increased traffic, loss of property values and a diminished quality of life. Members and supporters of “Citizens for Positive Growth� met in a parking lot adjacent to the old water plant recently, sporting T-shirts that featured belching smokestacks and read, “Just say No!� Rezoning would also set a dangerous precedent, some nearby residents contend, and would lead to more heavy industry in the area along U.S. 11/460 near Dixie Caverns. The Board of Supervisors was scheduled to take up the rezoning matter at its March 24 meeting but has now put it off until the April 28 public session, at the request of the petitioner (Adams). That delay has made Citizens for Positive Growth spokesperson, Judy Conyers, suspicious; she fears the asphalt producer is using a delay tactic to take some of the steam out of the group’s protest. Conyers said she would use the extra time to recruit more people to the cause. “No one has addressed the cumulative [negative] effect it will have if placed on West

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Main Street,� said Conyers. Adams contends that asphalt plants make good neighbors. I-2 zoning calls for heavy industries to be placed where there is “relative remoteness and absence of substantial residential development,� according to county code. That should disqualify the water treatment site said Conyers; “it is anything but a remote location,� she contends, “heavy industry is not a good fit at all.� Several subdivisions, the Glenvar schools and Richfield Retirement Community are within hailing distance of the proposed asphalt plant, which was sent to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation to allow the rezoning, after a contentious Planning Commission hearing. At the recent news conference it was pointed out that USA Today had rated air quality near Glenvar schools as some of the worst in the nation. “The time to act is now,� Conyers said as she rallied the troops, gearing towards the Board of Supervisors public meeting, now scheduled for April 28 at 7pm. “Help us make a case... we have lots of information to gather and process.�

Photo by Beverly Amsler

“Daisy� is read to by children at Goodview Elementary.

Dogs make unique Grand Marshals for St. Patrick’s Parade

Daisy and Benson are such “doggone good studentsâ€? they only attend school once a week. That’s because Daisy, a “Goldendoodleâ€? mix and Benson, a Golden Retriever, are reading dogs at Goodview Elementary in Bedford County. They are also “pawticipantsâ€? in the St. Francis Reading Dogs’ “Reading to the Dogsâ€? program for 1st, 2nd, and 5th grade students. And they will serve as Grand Marshals for Saturday’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Roanoke, one of the biggest in the Southeastern United States. Barbara Pennington, a Goodview Reading Program Specialist, said, “I’ve researched ‌ and found out how beneficial it was for the students [to read to dogs], and for their self esteem.â€? At first, Pennington chose a By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net few students to gauge the program’s effectiveness. “Hopefully, we can broaden it a little bit more, make it more available to other students,â€? said Pennington. She spoke to St. Francis Development Director Niki Voudren a couple of years ago about the possibility of starting the reading program. Daisy and Benson are Delta Society certified therapy dogs, which means they can visit hospitals, nursing homes and schools. Benny and Carole Firestone – and Daisy - live in Roanoke. The Firestones adopted Daisy from a Roanokearea breeder when the pup was about nine weeks old. Aftercare. She has been to obedience school, earned her Canine Good Citizen certificate, and Nicole Drew, passed a Delta certification Aftercare Coordinator 982-2100 test last March. Now they visit Roanoke Memorial Hospital’s pediatric, neurotrauma and orthopedics units, and the visiting area for cardiac patient’s families. “We’re very pleased, and Daisy seems to really enjoy her work,â€? said Carole Firestone. Ronnie and Janell Love, also from Roanoke, are four-year-

old Benson’s owners. In addition to being involved in the St. Francis Reading Program, they are puppy raisers for Chevy, a Golden Retriever who is a St. Francis Service dog-in-training, and Sallie, who accompanies them on visits to Friendship Manor and Lucy Addison Middle School. Janell Love said, “[I am part of the St. Francis Reading Program] because I enjoy working with my pet partner. It's rewarding to see that he makes a difference in students’ lives because he's very laid bad, calm and gentle.� The Loves feel the dog is listening to them when they show him pictures of what they're reading. Love says when the kids read to Benson, she becomes “invisible.� She tells the story of one first grader who turned Benson’s head toward her and said, "now Benson, you need to pay attention." Pennington says she’s been envied for having a dog in her classroom. “We had to make perfectly sure that the kids were O. K. We wanted to make sure they didn’t have any fears or allergies or anything like that,� she said. The children have been reading to the dogs since October and Pennington says some of the students have improved nearly an entire grade level since then. As Grand Marshals of Roanoke’s St. Patrick’s Day parade this Saturday, Daisy and Benson, and their handlers, will ride on a float. They will then appear at the Celtic Festival (corner of Williamson and Church) when the parade ends - to help receive an honorary award for St. Francis Service Dogs. By Beverly Amsler info@theroanokestar.com

Sports

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

3/13/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 7

Photos by Bill Turner

Knight’s captain #20 Greg Mackey drives past Liberty #32 Chris Harmon during the key fourth quarter run by Cave Spring (Above). Knights Head Coach Billy Hicks (Bottom left) watches as his Knights orchestrate a comeback. Hidden Valley’s Abby Redick, (Above Right) back from a knee injury, battles Staunton River’s Samantha Sublett for a rebound Saturday night.

Neighboring schools travel to Richmond Located just a few miles apart in southwest Roanoke County, both Hidden Valley and Cave Spring High Schools sent teams to this year’s Group AA state semifinals in Richmond Wednesday. Both the girls and boys squads from Hidden Valley have been in Richmond for the past three years. The Titan girls, two-time defending state champions, lost to Turner Ashby Wednesday, 57- 45.; while the boys, semifinalists for the past two years, lost to Salem, 60 - 54. Cave Spring will play Brunswick on Saturday for the VHSL’s Group AA boys basketball title (Division 3), after coming back to beat Liberty on Tuesday in Richmond. The Knights won 58-51, with big man Josh Henderson leading the way with 17 points. Cave Spring is 24-6 as Coach Billy Hicks’ team heads into the final on the Virginia Commonwealth University campus.

Roanoke Valley Christian is best in the state

Fight is over for beloved coach Brenda King never coached a game at Hidden Valley, but returned several times to sit on the bench as she battled cancer. One day before the Titans girls basketball team played a state semifinal game on Wednesday in Richmond, King lost her fight with cervical cancer. She leaves behind a son and a daughter. School administrators in Roanoke County said she passed away “peacefully” late Tuesday night. On Wednesday the Titans, led by interim coaches Randy Bush and Bobby Beecher, lost to Turner Ashby 57-45, denying Hidden Valley a chance for a third straight Group AA title. King had kept in touch with her team throughout the season and worked with them at a summer youth camp in 2008, after she was hired to replace Mike McGuire.

Last Saturday, the varsity girls basketball team for Roanoke Valley Christian School became VACA state champions by defeating Mt. Carmel 43 – 40. Elizabeth Jones made a game tying 3-pointer with 2 minutes to go. The Eagles then made 5 of 6 free throws to seal the win and capture the small independent school title. The Eagles were led by Amanda Hundley, who had 10 points and 11 rebounds. It is the first state championship of any kind in RVCS history. “This is new to me. I will say that it took a total team effort,” said head coach Bert Galop. “We struggled at times through the year with some injuries and other team issues. Each player played a significant role to our success. We have been family as much as a team.” Despite those struggles, the Eagles finished a not-too-shabby 22-5. “A very knit close group that faced all the challenges together,” Galop summarizes. “As tournament time came, we drew closer together as a group and really played our best basketball - when Members of the Eagles hold up pieces of the net they cut down after winning state title. it mattered most.”

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Sports

Page 8 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 3/13/09

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

William Fleming Moving on to VHSL Final Four

There is an old saying in sports that goes something like this: “It’s better to be lucky than good.” On Saturday at the Salem Civic Center, the William Fleming Colonels were certainly good. Some might argue they were lucky as well in their thrilling 54-53 win over Booker T. Washington High School in the VHSL Group AAA state quarterfinals. “Well, we’re just blessed,” Coach Mickey Hardy said, chuckling. “We’ve been extremely blessed.” In the final minute of yet another nail-biter for the Colonels, the team used two brilliant defensive plays – and some beneficial calls from the officials -- to secure the victory. With the Colonels clinging to a 54-53 lead, Jamelle Hagins drew a controversial charge against Booker T. Washington guard Marese Phelps with under 12 seconds remaining, erasing what would have been a go-ahead layup. “I was just trying to make the smart play,” Hagins said of drawing the charge. “I felt like if I tried to block it, they would have called a foul, and it would have been an ‘and-one.’” But just a few seconds later, Hagins could not convert at the free thrown line, missing the front end of a one-and-one with 9.3 seconds left and the Colonels still up by one. The Fighting Bookers grabbed the rebound and sprinted up court, finding a wide open Robert Thomas alone under the basket. But Shaquan Manning, seemingly out of nowhere, blocked Thomas’ shot from behind to help seal the win. Though the Fighting Bookers protested that Thomas was bumped on the play, no foul was called. For Manning, it was sweet redemption. The senior guard had struggled through an awful day up to that point, missing all four of his attempts from the field and committing a team high six turnovers, including a traveling violation with 24.9 seconds remaining that could have proved costly for the Colonels.

Photo by Bill Turner

Photo by Bill Turner

William Fleming's bench watches as the final seconds wind down. “I was just in the right place at the right time,” Manning said. “I just reacted as fast as I could.” “Just outstanding plays – both of them,” Hardy said. “A win’s a win, and this is a great win for our team.” From the opening tip it was apparent that the contest would be a struggle between two very different styles. The Fighting Bookers ran at every opportunity, pushing the ball in transition and pressing and trapping the Colonels on defense. William Fleming, on the other hand, was more methodical in the half court, constantly trying to pound the ball down in the post to senior forward Jamelle Hagins, who finished the game with a team-high 15 points and 11 rebounds. Neither style won out, however, and the game

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arc, making eight. “They’re a hard team to defend ‘cause they can drive and they can shoot,” Hardy said. “We knew from the scouting report they liked to shoot the three, so we just tried our best to contest those.” With the win, the Colonels (24-4) advance to face John Marshall in the semifinals Wednesday afternoon in Richmond. “It’s a great opportunity for us to go to the final four,” Hardy said. “Not a lot of people thought we could do that after coming up from Double-A, but the guys in this locker room believe we can win.” By Matt Reeve Matt@theroanokestar.com

Roger Ayers: from Patrick Henry to big time college official

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was close throughout. Trailing 21-19 with under 4 minutes to play in the second quarter, Fleming’s Stephon Anderson scored 9 straight points to lead his team to a 28-25 halftime advantage. Anderson also finished with 15 points. The second half was back and forth as well. With under five minutes to play in the third quarter, Fleming had its largest lead of the game, 35-27. But the Fighting Bookers scored 8 straight points, including two 3-pointers by Desmond Lee, to tie the score. From there, it seemed that each time the Colonels would stretch their lead, Booker T. Washington would counter with a 3-pointer to keep the game within reach. On the afternoon, the Fighting Bookers attempted 22 from beyond the

William Fleming #44 Jamelle Hagins flies high to reject a shot by Fighting Bookers #23 Quinton Spady as the shot clock expires late in the fourth quarter.

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like that for a living wasn’t really what he wanted to do. So, the son of a long time General Electric-Salem worker chose a path that made his dad a bit nervous at times, with its inherent lack of security: Ayers Jr. set out to become a big time college basketball on-court official, starting out by refereeing recreation league games. Middle and high school games followed, until the Old Dominion Athletic Conference gave him a shot at the Division III college level. “I knew this was what I wanted to do,” Ayers remembers thinking after officiating those early rec. games. Thirteen years later, Ayers now calls about 90 games per year, with the highly regarded Atlantic Coast Conference his first responsibility. He also officiates games in the Southeast, Atlantic 10, Southern, Big South and Colonial conferences, all NCAA Division One, but doesn’t forget his roots, still working ODAC contests on occasion. “They gave me a shot,” said Ayers, who was calling college games just two years into his journey. “I’m a firm believer in never forgetting where you came from.” Ayers spoke recently to members of the Roanoke Valley Sports Club, recalling that rise to the top of his profession, aided by those who recognized how ambitious he was. Called “fat” early on at an ACC summer officials camp, he came up with a diet and training program that has allowed him to drop about 40 pounds – and keep it off. In the ACC he earns about

$1,000 per game, admits that before with per diem and hand, “I was scared travel expenses to death. I didn’t eat thrown in. Not bad for two days.” Still, for a kid from PH once getting past that just wanted to the butterflies it was somehow stay in just another game: the game of basket“I do the same thing ball. Life on the road every night.” away from family Ayers tries to can be tough – two build a relationweek road trips are ship of trust with not uncommon. head coaches and Photo by Bill Turner “[But] I’m very tells them before fortunate to do what PH grad Roger Ayers hand that he’s gospeaks at RV Sports ing to miss calls on I do,” Ayers said. Ayers worked one Club meeting. the court. Its helps year in the NBA’s everyone get along development league (the Dazzle better, and in fact, he has never was Roanoke’s entry), with the called a technical foul on an National Basketball Associa- ACC coach, at least not yet. tion a possible destination. He Its only been in the past three gave that dream up for college seasons that Ayers has been ball when the ACC told him chosen from among a thouto make a choice and he “never sand referees or so to work the looked back.” NCAA post season tourney; he Ayers is on a year to year con- has not been selected for anytract with no benefits (he must thing past the first weekend, so take care of health care costs, re- far. He hopes to be back when tirement, etc.) and his on court March Madness gets underway performance comes up for scru- again in a few weeks, following tiny every off-season, with the the ACC’s post season tournapossibility that some younger ment, considered one of the Turk (he’s now 43) could sup- best in the country by basketplant him. On court officials ball aficionados. are reviewed after every game For good measure, Ayers is and watch a DVD of highlights, also commissioner of the Westlooking at calls they made. ern Virginia Basketball Officials When necessary, the Atlantic Association, grading high school Coast Conference home office “zebras” and assigning them to will contact him, asking Ayers games in the Roanoke area. He what he was thinking about said several times while speakperhaps on a travel or foul call. ing at the Sports Club meeting It is life in a well-paid fish bowl, in Salem: despite the pressure, often at hostile/loud environ- being screamed at by coaches ments like Duke’s Cameron In- like Bobby Knight and having door Stadium. to earn a new one-year contract He worked a North Caro- every off season: “I love what I lina-Duke game at Cameron do.” By Gene Marrano last year for the first time and gmarrano@cox.net

Lady Warriors fall in VACA State Quarterfinals The Faith Christian Lady Warriors’ defense of their state championship came to an end last Thursday when the team was upset at home by Stuart Hall 55-40 in the VACA state quarterfinals. The loss, which snapped a 10game winning streak for Faith, was marked by uncharacteristic mistakes, sloppy defense and poor shooting. The Lady Warriors turned the ball over a season-high 37 times in the contest, and shot below 30% from the field for only the second time all season. Backed by their largest fan turnout of the season, the Lady Warriors (19-4) lead by three at the half, but the Dragons would rally, and outscored the Lady Warriors 40-22 in the second half, taking advantage of the Lady Warriors’ miscues for some easy buckets. It was Faith’s third loss at home this season.

“It was one of those games where the girls played poorly, and I coached poorly, and we didn’t do much right,” Coach Pat Wolfe said. Point guard Sydney Leonard, unstoppable at times in the second half, had 29 points to lead Photo by Bill Turner Stuart Hall. Faith #34 Rachel Nymeyer “She is a very good player – goes for one of her 18 reno doubt about it,” Wolfe said. bounds against Stuart Hall. “But you should never allow Not that Wolfe was taking one player to beat you.” Wolfe lamented the team’s in- anything away from his oppoexperience (there are no seniors nent, “You have to give credit to on the roster), and believed the Stuart Hall – they did everything team could never find the right they needed to do to win.” Rachel Nymeyer led the Lady level of composure during the Warriors with 21 points in the contest. “The girls were too excited, defeat. Faith Christian will wrap up and they never did calm down,” he said. “We were doing stuff we their season this week at the Nahadn’t done all year – dribbling tional Association of Christian off our shoes, showing little dis- Athletics (NACA) Invitational cipline defensively, playing too Tournament in Tennessee. hurried. Next year I’m sure we’ll By Matt Reeve be a little bit more mature.” Matt@theroanokestar.com

3/13/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 9

TheRoanokeStar.com

Community Calendar > March 14

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Parade Starts at 11:00 a.m. Downtown Roanoke,VA (Jefferson Street, Campbell Ave. and Williamson Road) HomeTown Bank Celtic Festival: New Festival location! Parking lot at corner of Williamson Road & Church Avenue 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. RoanokeValley Chapter, NSDAR Open House The Roanoke Valley Chapter, NSDAR, will host an Open House for prospective members on Saturday, March 14, 2009, from 11 A.M. until 1 P.M. at St.Timothy Lutheran Church, 1201 Hardy Road,Vinton,Virginia . For more information contact Lee Hardin Woody, Regent, at 397-3173

> March 19

Community School Information Session Parents looking at schools for fall 2009 are invited to an Elementary and Middle School Information session. When - 7 p.m. Where - Community School 7815 Williamson Rd. For more - 540-563-5036

> March 21

JDRF 6th Annual Star City Gala 2009 A Night of Denim & Diamonds Honoring our diabetic children Saturday, March 21, 2009 at the Shenandoah Club. Excitement begins at 5:30 PM A fancy evening with denim & diamonds as suggested attire. Cocktail reception, silent and live auctions followed by dinner and music by Jeff Todd Jazz Guitarist and Deborah Liles For more information and tickets,

please contact the JDRF office at 540-772-1975. Tickets are $100 which includes dinner, an open bar, and music. $30 of the ticket price will be designated as a tax deductable donation to JDRF.

shop) Where - Roanoke Ballet Theater Studios 1318 Grandin Road, SW Call to Register for your Workshop: 540-206-2472 www.ShareTheDrum.com

> March 31

> April 21

Business Survival Series: Your Business – Looking Ahead Regardless of how small your business is, learn simple techniques that can change your business from status quo to a leader in your area. Presented by Tom Tanner, VSBDC Certified Business Analyst. Tuesday, March 31, 8:30 – 10:00 AM in the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce Boardroom. Cost: $25/ person (Register before March 17 and receive 20% off!). *Guaranteed to increase your profits or the seminar is free. Sponsored by: The Daily Grind. For more information or to register, call 540.983.0717 ext. 242

> April 18

River Guerguerian Percussion Workshop and Concert 3:00-4:15 Beginners Drum Workshop: explore tone production and our internal rhythm, play harmoniously with others; $20, $5 for children 4:30-6:00 Drum Workshop Intensive: learn finger-style rhythms, vocalizations and odd time meters from the Middle East and other cultures; $25 8:00 Multi-media Earth Day Concert: featuring a collaboration of unique drums, gongs and Himalayan bowls, guest modern dancer Liza Deck, and captivating visual images from around the world; $15 ($10 if attending a work-

Refugee and Immigration Services will hold a training session on Saturday, March 14th from 9AM – 3PM for volunteers who would like to teach English to refugees. Commitment is twice a week and scheduling is flexible. Training and teaching materials are free and no experience is needed. Contact Alice Duehl at aliced22@ris-roa. org or 342-7561.

Special Events/OneTime Opportunities

EventZone needs volunteers for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celtic Festival March 14th from 10AM – 5PM, and for the March 20th Cabin Fever event from 5PM – 10PM – dinner provided. Visit www.eventzone.org or call 342-2640. Presbyterian Community Center will be holding its annual fundraiser, “Dancing Under the Stars” on Friday, March 20th. Volunteers are needed for silent auction tables and decorating. Contact Cheryl Poe at volunteers@ pccse.org or 982-2911. Southwest Virginia Second Harvest Food Bank needs volunteers to make phone calls between March 16th and 27th. The calls will be to law firms throughout the region that have been invited to participate in a food drive by the legal community

> May 16

The Amazing County Treasure Hunt Join in Roanoke County’s exciting new Geocaching event! Using state of the art GPS technology, you, your family or student team will be asked to locate 10 scenic destinations throughout the County. Search for boxes at each location containing gold, silver and bronze coins for points. See who can get the most and win! Your hunt begins at Garst Mill Park. Pre-register beginning April 1 For more - (540) 387-6078 ext. 251 www.RoanokeCountyParks.com Have an item for the calendar? E-mail it to submissions@theroanokestar.com

will not seek the 17th District seat

Certainly for me, and I would think for most, the idea of running and winning a House of Delegates seat would be an enormous honor and great experience. Since the announcement last week of William Fralin's retirement, I have given this fairly rare opportunity a lot of thought. I have been flattered by the support and encouragement of many people whose opinions I value and cherish. While I tend to be optimistic and mostly try to say yes at every opportunity- this time around I have decided to say no and not run. The decision was difficult as I believe this is a seat the Democrats can win and I feel I could bring much deliberative decision making to the issues that the Commonwealth will be facing over the next few years: especially Job Creation and Health Care delivery and costs. Only when these are impacted will the state budget be able to address mounting concerns over Education and Transportation funding. Health care issues with our shrinking state budget need to be firmly addressed in the next year- especially with a possible new national plan, and especially (as I see all too often in my day to day work) with the effects of health costs on all of us-- in particular those losing jobs in this economy and the newly retired. From arts and cultural funding to passenger rail to school funding there are many needs in SW Virginia that I would love to advocate for and find positive solutions. I am primarily choosing not

Volunteer Needs Training Opportuni- to ask whether they plan to participate. A call script will ties Good Samaritan Hospice will offer training for Family Support Volunteers March 17th – April 9th, Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6PM – 9PM. These volunteers work directly with terminally ill patients and their families, visiting for 2 -4 hours each week. No experience needed, only a caring heart. Please contact Becky Harris (bharris@goodsamhospice.org) or Melinda Bern at 776-0198. Deadline for registration is March 12th.

First Steps to Starting a Business Learn the basics on what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur at this introductory seminar for prospective business owners. Tuesday, April 21, 5:30 - 9:00 PM, Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce Boardroom. Cost: $25/person. Pre-payment and pre-registration required by Friday, April 17. Sponsored by: Business SEED Capital, Inc., BB&T, Cox Business, and City of Roanoke. For more information or to register, call 540.983.0717 ext. 242

Commentary: Dave Trinkle - Why I

be provided. Calls can be made from the Food Bank or a location chosen by the volunteer. Contact Harry Van Guilder at hvanguilder@ swvafoodbank.org or 3423011 x42.

On-Going Volunteer Needs

American Cancer Society Discovery Shop would love some volunteers who love to visit yard sales and antique malls. Carilion Clinic has many opportunities for volunteers who have an affinity to help others. Volunteer opportunities include working in gift shop; staffing waiting rooms; running hospitality cart; and working with employees on patient floors. Commonwealth Catholic Charities needs volunteers for friendly visitors to seniors. Free training, flexible schedules! Conflict Resolution Cen-

ter is seeking volunteers willing to be trained as mediators, as well as general volunteers for occasional administrative tasks and special events. Family Service of Roanoke Valley Be a mentor for a youth in need! Mentoring a local child is a way to make a huge impact in our community. It doesn’t take much – just a little time each week and a desire to make a difference. Joseph C. Thomas Center would like volunteers for one-to-one visits with residents, St. Patrick’s Day entertainers, and volunteers to help with a painting class. Medi-Hospice is seeking patient care volunteers, special project volunteers, and administrative volunteers. Presbyterian Community Center is seeking volunteers to work at the front desk (greeting clients, answering phones, etc.). Volunteer client interviewers, pantry helpers, tutors, and computer skills are also needed.

to run at this time because I believe, no matter how you prepare for it, having two city council members running against each other in a difficult race would be a distraction to the many urgent issues facing our city – especially in a district as competitive as this one. I also believe we have weathered a lot of change recently in City Council and it would be wise to avoid too much further upheaval. Finally, I do relish my job serving the citizens of Roanoke and would miss that day-to-day role. While I am an active physician, faculty member and small business owner, I do believe I have much to offer and have the time and energy for a statewide office. I absolutely would consider a run for state office down the road, but at this particular time in this particular race, it just doesn't feel right to me. Last but most definitely not least, I indeed would be running against my "sister", Gwen Mason. She is eager, hard working, and a skilled politician. I know she will run an incredible campaign and that she has thought long and hard

about working in the General Assembly. She would represent the 17th District extremely well and I am proud to give her my full support in this campaign. Dave Trinkle Roanoke Paying cash for WWII German helmets, uniforms & memorabilia! Also BUY/SELL/TRADE ∙ All wars All Countries ∙ All items

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Rescue Mission is seeking volunteers for data entry, reception/office work, Microsoft Office instruction, physicians/physician assistants/ nurse practitioners/pharmacists, men’s hairstylist, Recovery Program helper, thrift store help. Southwestern Virginia Second Harvest Food Bank offers volunteer opportunities Monday – Thursday for individuals and groups of up to 25. These volunteers sort, inspect, and repackage food items for distribution to the hungry. Two-hour commitment per visit is requested. Great opportunity for team-building! These are only a few of the many volunteer opportunities available in the community. Contact us for more information! VOLUNTEER ROANOKE VALLEY 540-985-0131 ext. 500 vrv@councilofcommunityservices.org

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Valley Business

Page 10 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 3/13/09

TheRoanokeStar.com

The business of sports: it’s been good for the valley Despite tough economy

Amateur sporting events have become a boon for the Roanoke Valley, beginning with efforts undertaken by the City of Salem. Over the past two decades, Salem has attracted a myriad of NCAA championship events at the Division II and Division III levels – more than 50 since 1993. Also important have been the nationallysanctioned softball tournaments, AAU baseball, basketball and lacrosse. An economic recession may curtail spending habits, but it seems that regardless of expense, following a family member playing in a sporting tournament still remains a priority. Events brought to Salem have now spread to other local venues. In Botetourt County, a new softball complex was built, in part, to handle overflow games from the Moyer Sports Complex in Salem. Earlier this week, the Roanoke Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau (RVCVB) held a press conference at Salem Memorial Baseball Stadium, touting the effects of amateur sports in the valley: $14.8 million in direct impact is expected this year. Along with exposing thousands of people

to the Roanoke Valley, the hope is to get them back here for another visit. On hand were several representatives from local hotels that often benefit from the influx of visitors. Susan Short, RVCVB President-elect, touted the “great diversity in these events” as she showed off a sports calendar that begins with the DIII NCAA men’s basketball championship on March 20-21. Baseball and softball picks up after that, with NCAA women’s lacrosse in May, AAU basketball in July and the year-end NCAA DIII football championship Stagg Bowl in December. Many will be staying closer to home for vacations this year, said Short, and the Roanoke Valley should benefit. ”Consumers are looking to the region and our community for special events,” Short said. David Kjolhede, executive director of the RVCVB, said, “[sports] are one of the things that helps sell the valley.” In many cases the bureau joins with other organizations and localities to bid on tournaments. “We’ve seen it grow ev-

United Way still feels good about contribution levels

David Kjolhede of the RVCVB. ery year,” he said. Kjolhede added, “[sporting events] will play a huge role in modifying the potential impact [of the recession]. People are not going to go away on vacation as long; and they’re not going as far away. We’ve seen that sports are pretty much recession proof. People will [still] come because it’s youth oriented and their kids are competing for championships.”

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

Agee a big player at Carilion If you think Dr. Ed Murphy runs health care giant Carilion Clinic, you’re only partly correct. Dr. Murphy’s partner in leadership is Nancy Howell Agee, Carilion’s chief operating officer. Fifty years ago, women with power in not-for-profit hospitals likely would have included “society ladies,” serving on the boards of directors. Not so today, and definitely not so for Agee, who works for the largest employer in this region, with about 12,000 hires. Agee’s life started right where she is now, at Roanoke Memorial. “My parents lived [in Roanoke], so I went to nursing school here at Roanoke Memorial for my RN degree, and started my career here. I migrated to cancer care and was the first oncology hospital nurse,” she said. The experience led her to opt for more education, so it was off to the University of Virginia for a Bachelor’s degree in nursing, then on to Emory University in Atlanta to attain her Master’s degree. Agee expressed a desire to improve the level of care back home in the Roanoke Valley. “In 1979 I wrote a grant to

get NIH funding Over the past for a community few years, Carilcancer project,” she ion Health Sysrecalls. “I got three tem evolved into grants that helped Carilion Clinic, a all the hospitals in method of delivthe region establish ering health care cancer care and patterned after the hospices.” famed Mayo Clinic That included in Minnesota. money for rival “I feel the clinic is Nancy Agee Lewis Gale and a good and worthy the Veterans Adway to provide care ministration Medical Center in for this region… care supported Salem. by education and research,” said “More sophisticated cancer Agee of the transition. care at that time was at acaShe fully understands the demic centers. I worked with benefits from Carilion-owned physicians and nurses and put Jefferson College of Health together a fine cancer program. Sciences, with one thousand I led the effort, [but] I’m not students in nursing and allied the one responsible for it,” Agee health fields. said. “And now the medical school. Agee’s work as administra- We talked about it for a long tor of the cancer center also while and through a partnership involved education and train- with Virginia Tech, we should ing for physicians and nurses. be admitting the first class in As director of health education August of 2010,” she notes. her job evolved into her current After-hours relaxation inposition. cludes time spent with her hus“When Ed [Murphy] became band Steven (a federal fourth president, they invited me to circuit appellate judge), her son, become the chief operating of- and a dog. Also in her spare ficer to run the hospital. It’s the time, Agee serves as chair of the second largest in the state - with Virginia Hospital Association a lot going on and a darned ex- board, chair of the Foundation citing job,” Agee said. for Roanoke Valley, and sits on

the board for Roanoke Gas. When asked if it’s hard to switch between not-for-profit and for-profit tasks, she says, “The thinking is similar. We want to be good stewards of resources and have the responsibility to lead an organization well.” That leads Agee back to her day job. “One reason I’m so proud to work for Carilion is because it is not for profit. We provide care no matter who the patients are. I’m particularly pleased that we have [recently] evolved our charity care policies,” she said. There has been some criticism that for the 50-million dollars plus Carilion receives in tax exemptions every year it was not offering enough charity care. “For every one dollar we get credit as a tax exempt, we do a dollar fifty,” said Agee. “We do half again more than the IRS requires. I’m very proud of that.” About her role as COO Agee said, “I’m very challenged by it. I wake up every morning excited.” By Priscilla Richardson info@theroanokestar.com

Curves Supports Communities Nationwide With 11th Annual Food Drive

During the month of March, Curves of Roanoke will participate in the 11th Annual Curves Food Drive to benefit local food banks. Collectively, over the past five years, nearly 50 million pounds of food were distributed to local communities all over the world through the Curves Food Drive. Curves of Roanoke is also giving back to the community by waiving its normal service fee for any new member who brings in a bag of non-perishable groceries and joins between March 9th and March 28th. This promotion will help the women of Roanoke manage their weight and their wallets by joining Curves for free, while also helping feed hungry people in the community.

"The Curves Food Drive is always exciting," said Jan Harris, the owner of the Roanoke club, located on Franklin Road. "We have a chance to help so many people at a time when the food banks are lowest. Especially during these uncertain times, this food is needed more than ever. It's a win-win situation for everyone, and we're very proud to participate. Last year we collected 2,695 pounds of food, at this location. We hope to exceed that this year!" Others wishing to donate may drop off non-perishable food items at Curves Monday through Friday during business hours through the month of March. For more information, please call 540 344-1040.

Even in a challenging economic climate, the United Way of Roanoke Valley found a way to secure more than $ 6.1 million in response to this year’s “I Feel Good” campaign. United Way leaders and supporters celebrated the accomplishment at the Hotel Roanoke last week, honoring the donors and companies that contributed to support the myriad of social programs the agency helps fund. Among the businesses honored was Carilion Clinic, which earned the Milestone Award by raising more than $500,000. Advance Auto and Norfolk Southern earned the Cornerstone Award (employees there raised between $250,000 and $499,000), while several other companies raised up to $250,000. More than 100 awards were presented in all. “We set out on this campaign last fall with the intent of raising more money and obtaining more donors than in previous years,” said Bart Wilner, 2008 Campaign Co-Chair. “However, the needs are greater now than ever before.” United Way president and CEO Frank Rogan said the climate for giving may have changed towards the end of 2008, but there were positive signs – such as the 6,000 first time donors. “That’s pretty amazing,” said Rogan. “I think the ‘I feel Good’ campaign theme worked pretty well. People responded to the right type of message. It’s a very giving community.” Right now, Rogan said United Way is “trying to figure out” how Roanokers are grappling with the economy, before it puts together another

Photo by Gene Marrano

Campaign co-chair Bart Wilner addresses audience last week

“pacesetter” campaign. In the meantime, United Way borrowed from the Obama playbook, asking people to donate $5, then passing on an e-mail explaining the “Give Five, Feel Good, Pass it On,” campaign to five other people. Rogan wants more donors under the tent, hoping they will give more when they can even if they can’t give much now. United Way of Roanoke Valley supports 27 agencies and 62 programs, ranging from preschoolers at Greenvale School to Meals on Wheels for seniors. United Way also funds the Boys and Girls Clubs, the YMCA’s Magic Place and local emergency housing shelters. “Our money’s been very predictable over the years and they can count on that coming in,” said Rogan, who aims to see that comfort level continue despite the tough economic times.

Two Spectrum Design Architects are LEED accredited Roanoke-based Spectrum Design has announced that two of its architects, Erica Sunshine, AIA, LEED AP, and Nathan Harper, LEED AP, passed the U.S. Green Building Certification Institute LEED professional accreditation exam on March 7. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Professional Accreditation distinguishes building professionals as possessing an accurate and in-depth understanding of the LEED Rating System and building certification process.

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Arts & Culture

TheRoanokeStar.com

3/13/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 11

Local author turns empty nest into marriage ministry

If you think investing 20 years as a “home-schooling momâ€? can’t lead to excitement, accolades and a real sense of purpose, you haven’t met Eileen Rife. Soon after sending her third daughter off to college, Rife remembers thinking, “This really does happen‌[kids do eventually grow up and leave].â€? Rife’s three daughters all became involved in mission work, which led to her first publication in Discipleship Journal, “When God Calls Your Child into Full-time Missions.â€? Now Rife’s byline has also appeared in numerous magazines such as Marriage Partnership, Light & Life, Mature Living, On Mission, and Christian Home & School and she has authored several nonfiction books as well. Coauthoring a book with her husband, Chuck, “Marriage with an Attitude,â€? “How to Build an Exciting Marriage with a Fantastic Attitude!,â€? led to the development of an entire marriage ministry run by the couple. Guardyourmarriage.com serves as the home-base for the Rife’s marital restoration business. The Rifes conduct marriage seminars based on their book, and speak on a variety of topics for church groups and organizations throughout the country, as well as in India. “Whether you are considering separation, divorce, or bettering your marriage, Marriage with an Attitude can help you rebuild and improve your relationship skills,â€? Rife said. Chuck Rife has worked as a licensed professional counselor and marriage and family therapist with Total Life Counseling, Inc. of Roanoke, since 1988. They use a combination of their own marriage experiences and Chuck's counseling expertise to share principles that they report, “can revolutionize your mar-

riage and help between his you achieve sexual attracthe closeness tion struggle you long for.� and his genuThe business ine trust and and its philosofaith in God.� phy is based on “Eileen Rife Proverbs 4:23, has taken a “Above all else, Eileen Rife (Above) and her look on the guard your dark side of life, newest novel (Below). heart, for it is and let God the wellspring shine His Light of life.� on the touchy Rife eventusubject of hoally felt led to mosexuality. try her hand at It's fiction, yes, fiction. Her first but it could be book, which anyone's story, ultimately bewith all the came the first complications in a trilogy, it entails when was “Journey it's someone to Judah,� a close to us. love story inLovingly and volving young expertly done,� missionaries in writes author India. Elisabeth HeAs a result of working closely witt Bantz. with her husband and witnessCopies of “Restored Hearts� ing the many types of struggles are now available from the aupeople face in relationships, thor at a discount, (email eileenRife began working on her sec- rife@yahoo.com), and the book ond work of fiction, Restored will be available through online Hearts, addressing the sensitive stores March 30. subject of homosexuality. Rife is currently working on As stated on their website, the third book of what has be“Since the battle rages over come The Born For India series, traditional marriage, that is, Chosen Ones. the union of one man and one “At this season in my life, my woman for a lifetime, Eileen platform is writing and speakhas stepped a toe into the arena, ing wherever and whenever more like a foot, to fight for what [God] directs, growing my own God instituted in the Garden.� godly marriage with Chuck, and The novel deals with a young together leaving a legacy of faith man who struggles to leave a to our three grown daughters homosexual lifestyle, while a and grandchildren,� Rife said. young woman, who has loved “Life is full, and God is so him for as long as she can re- good. He has blessed and used member, waits in the wings. me in ways I never dreamed The novel has drawn praise possible.� so far from the Christian comFor more information, visit munity. www.guardyourmarriage.com, Author and therapist, Dr. Bill and www.eileen-rife.blogspot. Consiglio, writes, “An engaging com story that effectively captures By Pam Rickard the dilemma of a Christian man pam@theroanokestar.com coming to grips with the conflict

Roanoke and Salem 4th Grade Students Get in Step with Richmond Ballet’s “Minds in Motion� Program More than 300 Roanoke and Salem 4th grade students have been meeting each week throughout the school year to participate in Richmond Ballet’s Minds in Motion program. Led by Pedro Szalay, the region’s only certified Minds in Motion instructor and Artistic Director of Southwest Virginia Ballet, students learn discipline, dedication, team work and self-awareness. Participating elementary schools include: East Salem, Hurt Park, Raleigh Court, Fishburn Park, and Grandin Court. The Arts Council of the Blue Ridge, Roanoke City Public Schools and Salem City Public Schools partnered together to bring Richmond Ballet’s Minds in Motion to the region. Roanoke City Public Schools is celebrating their second year participating in the program. The culminating public performance for students to demonstrate their year-long learning will take place on Thursday, April 23 at 7:00 p.m. at the Roanoke Performing Arts Theatre. The recommended donation is $4. No tickets will be sold and the performance is open to the public. Support for Richmond Ballets Minds in Motion program for Roanoke and Salem City Public

Schools is provided by Carilion Clinic, Roanoke City Public Schools, Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. For additional information, contact The Arts Council of the Blue Ridge at 540-342-5790 ext. 4. The Arts Council of the Blue Ridge was launched in 1976 with the mission of advancing arts and culture throughout western Virginia by providing leadership in community cultural planning, educational programming, services for cultural organizations and artists, and arts and cultural advocacy. The Arts Council of the Blue

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Don’t judge this Pulitzer winner by its “cover� A review of “The Road� by Cormac McCarthy

One of the members of our book club wanted us to read “The Roadâ€? by Cormac McCarthy. Post-apocalyptic, brutal, few survivors, the end of life as we know it, and cannibalism were some of the descriptive terms he offered us. Naturally, we jumped at the chance to read and discuss such a novel; we’re always ready for a wholesome and uplifting tale. What really happened is that some of us groaned while others remained absolutely silent. All of us looked as if we were presented with a bowl of guts and grime for dinner. After very little discussion, “The Roadâ€? was not included on our list of books to read over the next few months. But this particular book club member was persistent. He found a way to mention “The Roadâ€? at every monthly meeting for the next 3 to 4 months. “IT WON A PULITZER PRIZE‌how could we NOT read it!â€?, he proclaimed. Then I learned from my friend that her husband had read “The Roadâ€? and loved it. Soon afterwards, I heard that one of my favorite teachers COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN and had declared that our book club MUST discuss this novel. A morbid curiosity possessed me. I found myself disturbingly distracted by a book that I had never read. I could not stop wondering what could be so compelling about a story that sounded like all gloom and doom. What else could I do? I read “The Roadâ€? and I’ve lived to tell about it. The story is told from the perspective of a father and his young son. The author refers to them only as “the manâ€? and “the boyâ€?. The setting is a world that has been all but annihilated and it is the only world the boy has ever known. He and

his father have survived, and barely continue to do so, by scavenging for remnants of food, clothing, fuel and shelter. They trudge through a charred and blackened countryside under a sky clouded with ash and live with the omnipresent threat of being captured and eventually murdered by cannibals. It would be perfectly logical at this point for you to decide to NEVER read “The Road�. However, consider 2 reasons to read it despite the foregoing bleak synopsis. First, read “The Road� because Cormac McCarthy is a masterful writer. His use of language is precise, elegant and poetic. Without artifice or pretense, he weaves a seamless tale of the immense destruction and horrors humanity is capable of, while also reminding us of our ability to transcend our most ignoble instincts. Second, read “The Road� for the poignant portrayal of the relationship between the father and the son. The boy is alive only because his father is desperately determined that the boy should live. Instead of succumbing to despair, the man tenaciously clings to his own life because he loves his son and all that the boy represents. Despite the terrifying world in which the boy has been raised, he knows and understands hope, gratitude, compassion and love. His father has taught him that he is “one of the good guys� and the boy believes it with every fiber of his being. If you need more convincing, online reviews are plentiful, as is the praise for Cormac McCarthy and his prize-winning novel. By Dr. Alise Magnuson

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Page 12 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 3/13/09

TheRoanokeStar.com

Send your articles, story ideas and pictures to: info@theroanokestar.com

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Byrd’s Jr. ROTC unit to host competition, other events

The junior Air Force ROTC unit at William Byrd High School will host a Military Ball on March 26th at the Vinton Moose Lodge, at 6:30 PM. It will also host the Roanoke Valley Drill Competition on March 28th, at William Byrd High School, from 9AM until 2:30 PM. Also competing are drill teams from William Fleming, Patrick Henry, Franklin County and E.C. Glass high schools. Last weekend the Byrd Jr. ROTC drill team and color guard competed in a 15 -team tournament in Charlottesville and took second place overall. For more information contact Sgt Paul Richardson at 562-3900 ext. 24055

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