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May 1 - May 7, 2009

Community | News | Per spective

TheRoanokeStar.com

Virginia health officials, Carilion track swine flu cases WEEKEND

Page 2

Following confirmation by U.S. health officials that cases of swine flu have been identified in California, Texas and Mexico, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is asking health care providers across the state to have a high index of suspicion regarding cases of influenzalike illness. At RSS press time, there has been one reported fatality in the U.S. Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Due to the ability of the virus to mutate, sporadic human infections can occur. The symptoms of swine flu are similar to

Explore Park Plans Finally Revealed

Poor Roscoe

P5– Jon Kaufman says not all homeless hounds are necessarily what they appear to be.

Progressive Music P12– The Kirk Avenue Music Hall brings the best in up and coming musicians to Roanoke.

Florida developer Larry Vander Maten proposed a grand, albeit vague, plan for Explore Park several years ago, in hopes of be- Larry Vander ing granted Maten a long-term lease for the state property.

The lease was granted, and Vander Maten, a retirement home developer, went to work on the planning phase for what he is now calling, “Blue Ridge America,” an overnight resort destination.

Vander Maten’s vision for the park includes lodging, restaurants, a riverfront village, a conference center, dinner theater, outdoor activities, a spa/ wellness center and a living history village that includes a working farm. Family activities would include nightly bonfires, fireworks, chuck wagon rides and a golf course.

Vander Maten made two presentations Tuesday, one to the Roanoke County Board

> CONTINUED P3: Explore Park

seasonal influenza and typically include fever, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and runny nose. Additional symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, headache, chills, fatigue, pneumonia and respiratory failure. Persons with swine flu are contagious for up to seven days after the onset of illness and possibly longer if they are still symptomatic.

“There have been no cases of swine flu virus reported in Virginia,” said Virginia State Health Commissioner, Karen Remley, MD, MBA, FAAP. “We are contacting health care providers in the state alerting them of the situation and asking them to test individuals who

have flu-like symptoms and have traveled to affected areas up to seven days before becoming ill.” These areas include: San Diego County and Imperial County, California; Guadalupe County, Texas and Mexico. Internationally, the virus has been confirmed in Mexico, with more than 100 deaths reported.

The Health Department held a briefing in Roanoke on Monday, with Dr. Thomas Kerkering, Carilion Clinic’s Director of Infectious Disease and Infection Control, speaking as well. “We are planning for a worst-case scenario,” said Kerkering, “[as if] there will be more cases.”

Kerkering advised people to call a family physician first if flu symptoms appear. He said Carilion waiting rooms would do their best to isolate flu sufferers from others, or have masks and other precautionary items on hand. Carilion hospitals will be a special target for infection control practices, according to Kerkering.

People planning to travel outside of the U.S. should consult the CDC’s website or contact their toll free hotline at 800-CDC-INFO for the latest travel > CONTINUED P2: Swine Flu

[Race for Governor]

Jeffrey Presses Case Against Ware Over Filing Issues

Clinton Stumps for McAuliffe

Martin Jeffrey looks for the “smoking gun.”

Photo by Bill Turner

Former President Bill Clinton works the crowd in downtown Roanoke on Monday.

F

ormer President Bill Clinton readily acknowledged that “payback” was part of the reason he was campaigning in Roanoke Monday for Democrat gubernatorial hopeful Terry McAuliffe. As national party chair, McAuliffe raised plenty of money for Clinton back in the 90’s, as he did for Hillary Clinton during her failed attempt to win the Democratic presidential nomination.

Bill Clinton, the governor of Arkansas for 12 years before being elected president, told the 500-plus in attendance at the old Fire Station #1 downtown that there were plenty of good reasons to support McAuliffe.

The northern Virginia resident will face off against Creigh Deeds and Brian Moran in a June 9 primary for the right to compete against Republican Bob McDonnell this No> CONTINUED P3: Clinton

In a news conference held earlier this week, Martin Jeffrey implied that there is a “smoking gun” in regards to 11th District Delegate Onzlee Ware’s filing process for the Democratic primary on June 9. Jeffrey, challenging Ware for the party’s nomination, said he would continue to pursue his goal with party leaders at the state and local level. The Jeffrey campaign intends to review petitioner’s signatures and see exactly when Ware’s paperwork was filed (April 10 was the deadline).

Jeffrey and campaign manager Mark Powell said they had reason to believe the three-term delegate may have filed late.

“We don’t want to say specifi> CONTINUED P3: Jeffrey

Boston Marathon Provides Extraordinary Experience for the Senses Youth Service P14– Local students help renovate Roanoke as they take part in the largest youth service initiative in the world.

Popular Party P17– Caitlin Coakley wonders if Roanoke’s Tea Party is a one time event or the beginning of a movement.

From the Features Editor Running the Boston Marathon is a little bit like your wedding day.

After investing so much time and work getting there, you want to savor every moment and make it last…but honestly, you really just can’t wait to get back to that hotel room!

Actually, my handsome groom wasn’t able to make this trip with me, and my “hotel room” was at the YWCA, but it was a bridal suite for me the night of April 20.

After 46 years of life, 23 years of marriage, 3 daughters, 26 years of running, 10 marathons and 3 precious years of sobriety, this recreational runner was privileged to run the 113th Boston Marathon.

After a few days of reflection, it seems clear that running the 26.2 miles from Hopkinton, MA to downtown Boston was simply the proverbial icing on the cake. The real gift was the journey that brought me there.

Three years ago, on April 17, 2006, the day of the 110th running of the Boston Marathon, I was checking into rehab at The Farley Center at Williamsburg Place in Williamsburg, VA. While I certainly regret the choices I made that led me to Farley, I am eternally grateful for the

Photo by Harold Ingram

Despite what the sign says, most marathoners know that the journey to Boston began long before reaching the starting line in Hopkinton, MA. foundation they provided for me to face alcohol addiction and begin a life rooted in God’s grace and forgiveness, humility, and most importantly, truth.

Most runners who have attempted and/or completed a marathon agree that it certainly can be a humbling experience, but it is also one of the most thrilling and rewarding. Running is the only

sport where the recreational participants are able to “compete” in the same event alongside elite athletes.

I was humbly thrilled to catch up to the famous “Boston Billy,” four-time Boston winner Bill Rodgers, at about mile 21. I acted like a groupie, blabbering on about what a privilege it was to run with him -- then I pulled away and ended up beat-

ing the legend by 18 minutes. So much for humble.

For runners, competing in the Boston Marathon is a little like playing in the Super Bowl. It’s the oldest continuously held marathon in the world, with the first runners toeing the line in 1897. It requires a qualifying time, for most, and its course is as hilly as it is historic.

The best way to describe the experience known as “doing Boston” is that it is simply a feast for the senses: Sights… From the sea of bodies stretching as far as the eye can see at the starting “line” in rural Hopkinton, to the glorious finish line on Boylston Street in downtown Boston, there are enough distractions to keep any runner or spectator engaged. Well-wishers, cheering squads and festively dressed partygoers of all ages line every inch of the course.

Patriot’s Day is celebrated annually in Boston on the day of the marathon.

Schools and many businesses are closed, the Red Sox play a home game, and the mood of celebration is palpable. I spotted at least 3 signs along the course updating us on the Sox score. The last one I remember said, “Sox 3, Birds, 1.” The Red Sox went on to beat the Orioles 12–1. > CONTINUED P2: Boston

Page 2 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/1/09 - 5/7/09

TheRoanokeStar.com

> Swine Flu From page 1

Thursday will see more clouds than sun with more scattered showers possible. Temperatures will be seasonable, topping out around 70 degrees. Skies look to stay mainly cloudy on FriJeff Haniewich day with periods of rain, even a few storms possible. It will be warmer with highs in the mid-to-upper 70s. We may see a little more sun on Saturday, but the chance is still there for passing showers and storms. Temperatures will stay on the warm side, reaching the mid-to-upper 70s once again. We will again cool down on Sunday with highs dropping to near 70 under mostly cloudy skies. There is also the chance for more rain as we close out the weekend. Monday through Wednesday of next week still look to have their fair share of cloud cover in place with isolated showers possible each day. Temperatures will start to up through the period… with highs in the low-to-mid 70s on Monday going up to as warm as 80 by mid-week. Have a great night!

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guidance and outbreak notices. CDC has determined that this virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. VDH encourages anyone with influenza-like illness to follow these standard guidelines: * If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep

with sick people. * Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Four different antiviral drugs are licensed for use in the U.S. for the treatment of influenza.

At this time, CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection

with swine influenza viruses.

More information on treatment recommendations can be found at www.cdc.gov/flu/ swine/recommendations.htm.

Carilion is also broadcasting flu updates on Twitter (www. twitter.com/carilionclinic)

Roanoke Police Display Department’s Capabilities at Virginia Western On a sunny, warm, spring-like day last Friday, Virginia Western Community College students and employees enjoyed Spring Fling, an annual showcase of various school and community groups. There were representatives from Radford University, Lynchburg College, Roanoke College, Manpower, various VWCC groups, and even an artist drawing caricatures on a mug. A student art show was also featured.

There were more serious events however: one of the attractions drawing a large crowd was the Roanoke City Police Department Mobile Command Center and members of the Tactical Response Team (TRT). Lieutenant James Fazio with the Tactical Unit says Virginia Western’s police chief, Craig Harris, invited them. “Its part of our community policing philosophy, too, {that’s really} what it’s all about. We want to show people what we’ve got. We want to show that these are weapons here that we don’t ever want to have to use. But we can’t just match force. We have to be up on top of force.”

Fazio says violence against police officers is on the rise. He refers to the shooting deaths of three police officers during a do-

mestic call in Pittsburgh earlier this month.

Several more officers were killed in Oakland, CA. “We’re losing SWAT members; we’re losing just police officers in general.

Overall, if you look at the nation, last year actual killings of police officers went down, but these incidents where multiple officers are getting killed-that’s something we need to address.” “We use recent events to gear our training to that.”

A battering ram and a tactical blanket, which could be used to rescue injured officers or citizens, were just some of the items

on display at Virginia Western.

“We train hard because we train like we’re going to play - basically [that’s] the way to do it . . . Because you never know what you’re going to encounter. Even though you think the bad guy’s gone or the bad guy has killed himself, you don’t know that for sure.

So we need to be on top of our game the whole time.”

The 24-year veteran police officer says technology has increased by leaps and bounds over the years. He says any new tools the tactical team thinks can help themselves or their fellow officers; they use to try and stay ahead of the game. “The more tools we have in our belt, that’s more things we can choose from.” Virginia Western’s Justice Club hosted the event.

Hard on the heels of the Virginia Tech shooting anniversary and with several other college campus incidents in recent years, perhaps the tactical team’s appearance at Virginia Western’s Spring Fling wasn’t so incongruous after all.

By Beverly Amsler info@theroanokestar.com

> Boston From page 1

Sounds… The familiar sound of a school bus’s squeaky brakes usually reminds me of my girls coming home from school, but that sound took on a new meaning for me as thousands of chilly, excited runners lined up

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from infecting them. * Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. * Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. * Try to avoid close contact

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at Boston Commons waiting to board the more than 700 school buses that would carry us to Hopkinton.

The long, unlikely convoy successfully transported us to our “base camp” at Hopkinton High School to congregate, wait, stretch, hydrate and de-hydrate.

The lines for the port-a-potties were 50 plus deep, but it was remarkable how fast the lines moved, and how much fun the atmosphere was as folks chatted, laughed and encouraged each other.

The “wall of sound” as we approached Wellesley College at mile 13 was almost frightening.

In his landmark book, “The Complete Book of Running,” the late Jim Fixx writes, “The modern world’s most appreciative marathon fans [are] the girls of Wellesley College.” Fixx was right. I found myself choking back tears as I ran by those wild, wonderful young women.

My personal sounds came from my faithful iPod, including Springsteen, Third Day and my personal anthem, Audio Adrenaline’s version of “It Is

Well With My Soul.”

Scents… Ok, the bad news first: port-a-potties, sweaty runners and Ben-Gay. The good stuff included the incredibly fresh spring Massachusetts morning and the scores of barbeques and cookout celebrations enjoyed by the spectators.

Whether it was sight, sound, smell, taste or touch, the overwhelming sensation was simply one of feeling. …being in the moment, experiencing the gift of wellness and life.

From the time I realized I Still smiling at mile 21. was actually making the trip to this very moment, feelings moment, I blissfully crossed the of anxiety, joy, excitement and finish line in 3:48.

Less than an hour later I gratitude have washed over dropped wearily onto my me. I have felt strong, battered, YWCA bed, chilled, exhausted, blessed, alive, sore, determined, bold, nervous, hopeful and aching and gratefully spent. At that moment, had someone overwhelmingly grateful.

And as many times as I told asked me whether it was all myself, and everyone else, that worth it, I would have only one I didn’t care about my time and answer.

You better believe it.

I was “just happy to experience Boston,” I desperately wanted to come in under 4 hours.

After investing so much time and work getting there, feeling

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5/1/09 - 5/7/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 3

TheRoanokeStar.com

> Clinton

> Explore Park of Supervisors, and another to the Virginia Recreational Foundation Authority (VRFA), screening a video about the Explore Park area, Smith Mountain Lake and the Roanoke Valley. He has been using it to interest potential investors in the project. The presentation laid out many, but not all of the details, some of which he called “proprietary� in nature.

It’s a tough climate for borrowing the $200 million Vander Maten estimates he needs. “We don’t know when things‌might get better.

[Right now] there is no funding for projects of this type in the leisure industry,� he said.

VRFA board member Carolyn Fidler, also a Vinton Town Council member, heard Vander Maten’s presentation earlier in the day. She prefers to remain optimistic about plans for Blue Ridge America. “I’m excited about the prospects for the Valley and Explore Park’s future. I am particularly impressed with Living History’s [Vander Maten’s corporate name for the project] commitment to be an environmental friendly proj-

Clarification:

From page 1

From page 1

vember.

Many came to see Clinton, but some, like Mona Black, had done their homework on McAuliffe. “[He’s] very direct, very explicit,â€? said Black as she waited for the event to get underway. “I like his stance on energy, jobs ‌ and education.â€?

Both McAuliffe and Deeds have been to the Roanoke area several times; Moran was planning his first visit Wednesday for a fundraiser at the Roanoke Country Club.

Clinton gave Barack Obama his due when he took to the stage to introduce McAuliffe, calling Obama “a president that’s taken us in a new direction.�

Clinton added that whomever Virginians choose as their next governor will make a difference, and that by having McAuliffe in Richmond it would give “ordinary people their fair share of America’s economic recovery.

Terry McAuliffe was made for this moment.�

McAuliffe talked about “historic� unemployment numbers, and his track record in the private sector - creating “thousands of jobs,� his desire to raise teacher pay to the national average and a push for high-speed rail.

He was critical of budget cuts in the General Assembly that were used to help balance the budget

By Gene Marrano and said he didn’t believe in raisgmarrano@cox.net ing taxes “in a down economy.�

ect,� Fidler said. “I certainly plan to visit as a day visitor and maybe stay overnight when it’s finished.�

Vander Maten said Blue Ridge America would employ about 530 people at the height of the season, and 140 in the off-season. “I don’t believe there is anyone that wants this to fail or go backwards,� said Catawba supervisor Butch Church. “We’re on the hold button. We’re just waiting.�

Lehman Brothers was interested at one point about two years ago, said Vander Maten, but the Wall Street investment firm has since gone under. If the lending market was stronger he added, “we’d be well under way. I think this is a project that will work.â€? “Is this something worth waiting for?â€? asked Vinton District supervisor Mike Altizer, who said he had heard positive feedback from those who had seen the video presentation earlier. “Let us hope that things do turn around‌ and that everything does work for this project.â€?

McAuliffe touted his plan for paying off four-year college loans, if graduates pledge two years in certain jobs and regions where their particular expertise was needed.

McAuliffe was also critical of McDonnell on several issues, like the former attorney general’s decision to back Republican state legislators that turned away $125 million in unemployment money offered, with some strings attached, by the federal government. “I’m never turning any money back,� he promised.

McAuliffe may have been most animated when talking about green jobs and his desire to harness the wind for electricity off the coast on Virginia wind farms that “could light a million homes‌. I’ll make sure Virginia is the number one state in the country for green jobs.â€?

As Clinton and McAuliffe worked the rope line afterwards, Margaret Sanders said she liked what was proposed. “He’s got a plan for everything [and] the energy to get things done,� Sanders said. “McAuliffe will be a force of nature,� said Clinton, who has vacationed in the past with the prospective nominee’s family. “He will be magnificent.�

Roanoke City Councilman Court Rosen commented on the elimination of Mayor Bowers’ secretary Joyce Johnson at the last council meeting. “This is a personnel decision that City Council did not get involved in,� said Rosen. He did not say it was a personal decision, as reported last week. We regret the error.

Roanoke Star of the Week

Matt Bullington, son of Velma and Jim Bullington, was born and raised in Roanoke, Va. After graduating from Cave Spring High School he went to Roanoke College, where he received his degree in Business. Matt worked in the family busiMatt Bullington ness, the Texas Tavern, all thru college and decided to make it his career. He is the fourth generation of his family to own the Texas Tavern, which was established in 1930. Matt is very active in outdoor activities, competing in and finishing a 54 mile marathon in South Africa in June of 2008. In 2007 he was honored by the City of Roanoke as one of “Roanoke’s Heroes� for jumping in and trying to save a drowning man in the cold January waters of the Roanoke River.

Matt is married to the former Molly Stout from Charleston, S.C., and they are expecting the “fifth Texas Tavern generation� to arrive in early September. They make their home in Southwest Roanoke City.

Have someone in mind for “Roanoke Star of the Week?�

By Gene Marrano E-mail Jim Bullington: JBullPhoto@Hotmail.com gmarrano@cox.net

> Jeffrey From page 1

cally,� Jeffrey said when asked for particulars on Tuesday.

He detailed “roadblocks� in a written statement read aloud, concerning an attempt to inspect Ware’s filing documents – including an alleged threat of physical intimidation from Roanoke City Democratic party committee chair, Tony Reed, resulting in charges being filed

by Powell. “At times, people seem to be misrepresenting the truth,�

Powell charged on Tuesday. “We did not have ample opportunity [to review documents],� said Jeffrey, adding that it was incumbent on Ware’s part “to make sure there is no question...transparency ought to be the rule of the day.�

Jeffrey said he had contacted Democrat party officials including state chair Dick Cranwell and 6th District chair Linda Wyatt, but has not been given access to the paperwork so far.

He also said many local party

officials – including Cranwell, a Vintonite – have contributed to Ware’s campaign. “Is our democracy available for hijacking? We believe there’s a smoking gun,� said Jeffrey. “If Mr. Ware did not file properly, this [primary race] is over.�

Onzlee Ware disagrees emphatically: “There is no smoking gun,� Ware said from his office shortly after Jeffrey held his news conference. “He’s trying to create news - with all of the issues going on, he’s spent about three weeks now trying to review petitions.�

Jeffrey said pressing his case on the filing matter will not distract him from the issues and said he was in the midst of a cycle where he was meeting with people and organizations on matters that concern the 11th District.

Ware said he filed more than enough legal names, on time, and in fact filed his complete petition before the challenger

did. The attorney also said Jeffrey can file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to access the petition documents and thinks it is “crazy� that the challenger would ask him for those petitions. Instead, said Ware, people should be asking about liens against Jeffrey for non-paid taxes, as alleged on a local blog. “I think that’s news,�

Ware said.

Ware also points out that Jeffrey “probably knows something about the filing process,� since he helped run challenger Mac McCadden’s aborted attempt to wrest the Democratic nomination in the 11th District away from Ware two years ago – a campaign that ended when it was revealed that his petitions had not been filed properly.

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Page 4 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/1/09 - 5/7/09

Trees: On the Ground Aid for an Ailing Planet How long does it take to make the woods? As long as it takes to make the world.

Wendell Berry, Sabbaths

living. But especially to our high-speed information age, today, trees teach the ability to stand in one place, roots underground, branches to heaven, connecting our higher lights with groundn Friday April 24th, Nationlevel usefulness. al Arbor Day will brought Their shade, vertical beauty and loft thousands of Americans appear to calm and uplift us. Research outdoors to dedicate that most vibrant indicates that wooded settings can and useful of monuments to the future lower blood pressure, improve student - a living tree. concentration, reduce employee sickLiza Field Why? Each spring, I find myself on time, quicken recovery for hospital a school campus or riverbank with patients, and lower neighborhood buckets of sap-odored seedlings and shovels, try- crime rates. ing to articulate the ever-expanding answer.

And trees deepen our sense of place. My stuThe parking lot will stay cooler. Your real estate dents often recall favorite trees from childhood value will increase. You can lower your power more vividly than buildings. Folk songs, classic bill. Trees buffer noise and wind. They absorb poetry and scripture through the ages often incarbon dioxide and pump out oxygen. Trees help clude a sacred tree, a world tree, a tree-of-life. attract rainfall and combat drought.

Perhaps most usefully in these discontent days, As I hold up a limp little seedling and clump trees demonstrate how to make do with whatever of dangling roots, lag-jawed teenagers and bright- soil, weather, atmosphere and problems they find faced grannies listen to its nearly-unbelievable themselves among, turning trouble into benefits powerhouse of capacities: It absorbs storm-water for others, now and future. back into the aquifer. It can keep riverbanks from This quality offers hope to counter the gloomy eroding. Songbirds can someday nest here. It global news of our day. It's become dauntingly feeds pollinators, wildlife, soil and us! clear that the problems of Earth's oceans, climate, Frankly, a tree can do so much good, simply by soil, waters, and vanishing biodiversity are too big existing, I can think of no act more directly useful for any one person or nation to solve. But wherin helping the whole world, local and global, than ever one person happens to stand, Earth is unplanting one. derfoot, her climate overhead. From what better Particularly as a teacher, I find tree-planting a perch could we grapple with change? great way to bridge the abyss between academia Though few individual Americans can save and action, information and how-to-respond. large tracts of forest, most developed landscapes Tree-planting provides one small act almost any- include countless collective acres of potential, fuone in the U.S. can undertake to balance the del- ture shade, bird habitat and beauty. Churchyards, uge of environmental bad-news. cemeteries, hospital and nursing home grounds, And for a small act, tree-planting potentiates industrial parks, road and creek corridors, collegmonumental relief. From a local heat-island effect es and schoolyards could easily grow something to global warming, urban run-off to coastal dead besides flat, useless, high-maintenance lawn and zones, local habitat loss to mass extinctions, trees asphalt. offer direct, on-the-ground aid for what ails this A simple nursery order, some volunteers young planet. and old, and a dig-in party could be the start to Trees act as vertical vents and water pumps, a wildlife sanctuary, shady summer grove, prayer moderating a climate's aridity and temperature, garden, outdoor classroom, or mere treasury of releasing or storing moisture and shading the great soil fit to feed new generations of poets, phisummer landscape. They filter particulate matter losophers, problem-solvers and tree-planters. and decrease ozone levels, reducing respiratory illness and health-care costs.

Arbor Day, April 24th, is one of the nation s Moreover, they mix deep, subterranean layers oldest environmental holidays. It remains a pracof inert minerals, sunlight and CO2 into food that tical and perfect moment to do good for Mother becomes living organic matter. An urban or rural Earth, writes Liza Field in this 751 word commenforest literally enriches the land and its inhabit- tary (730 without the quote from Berry). Edit ants, proving that something better than money first sentence as needed for timing. Field teaches grows on trees. philosophy and English in Virginia Governor’s The civilized nations....have been sustained by School and Wytheville Community College and the primitive forests which anciently rotted where writes a weekly column for newspapers in souththey stand. They survive as long as the soil is not western Virginia. exhausted, wrote Henry David Thoreau, exulting in the rich humus continually renewed by Liza Field is a hiker and conservationist. She his woods. The same soil is good for men and for teaches English and philosophy in the Virginia trees....fitted to raise not only corn and potatoes, Governor s School and Wytheville Community but poets and philosophers for the coming ages.

College. This column is distributed by BayJournal Thoreau found trees good instructors in wise News Service.

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Tote DOWN1 Limb Time zone 2 Card game East northeast 3 Earth science Limb 1 Downwind 4 Library park. e game N&W Engineer whose grave 2 Card 5 Ocean sports a steam engine and 3 Earth 6 Decade northeast science Levee tender 10 nwind 4 Library park.

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A Man is Responsible for Changing His Own Reality

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s warm weather hits and Next, you must realize that you summer begins, I have a can do nothing without an educamessage to my young Black tion. It doesn't matter if you can run brothers out there. Stop being your as fast as a horse, jump out of a gym, own worst enemy. Stop getting insing like a bird or throw a baseball100 volved in the American criminal jusmph. Without an education, you are tice system. Stop making babies you do doomed to being controlled instead of not want to take care of. Stop flunking being in control. After all, that's what out of school. Stop chasing unrealistic life is all about isn't it - being able to do dreams. Stop thinking you cannot be what you want when you want? successful because you are Black, poor, As your generation says, "It's all Jeff Artis or come from a single parent houseabout the Benjamins." You need to hold. Stop thinking that racism will alunderstand that the most important ways hold the Black man down. Stop blaming the thing you have to get in your life is get a good White man for all of your problems. Start thinking education. Education holds the keys to being sucthat the only things keeping you from becoming a cessful in life. The more education you have, the success are the limitations you place on yourself. more “Benjamins” you will make.

There is no excuse for the numbers we have in I hear a number of you young brothers talking the Black community when it comes to the rates about being "hard." You take pride in your abilwe have in the area of crime, teenage pregnancies, ity to beat someone up, fire a gun or disrespect absentee fathers, students dropping out of school, young girls who should know better. Your vocabunemployment and underemployment, the HIV/ ulary consists of words that should never be used AIDS and a host of other problems that adversely in public. Brother, let me tell you the truth. Being and disproportionately affect the Black commu- "hard" isn't being a man. Being hard just makes nity, especially when the solutions to these prob- you expendable. lems are so readily available. . let me tell you something else. The most danIt starts with self. Believe in yourself. Do not gerous Black man in America doesn't carry a gun. base your own self worth on what others are tell- He carries a book. He takes care of his family. He ing you. Understand that those who say you are avoids the American criminal justice system. He no good because you want to succeed only say so takes care of his community. He works for positive because they do not want you to succeed. This in- change. He doesn't work for the chump change cludes family members and friends who do not many of you get from an illegal hustle. want you to succeed because your failure makes No, Brother, I'm not passing judgment on you. them feel better. Do not fall for this "crabs-in-a- Sometimes, the truth hurts. barrel" mentality where people do not want you to Contact Jeff at be successful because they cannot be. Simply put, column@jeffartis.com do not let anyone crush your dreams.

When Pigs Fly I’ll Go Fly Fishing

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apitalizing on someone else’s misfortune has never been appealing, but when a store like Sportsman’s Warehouse is going out of business, it seems everyone does just that. I guess it’s a two-way street, but it IS kind of harder to gloat over a great deal when people are losing their jobs. Just the same, we have recently had a LOT of Sportsman’s Warehouse bags with outdoorsy goodies lying around our house. Out of the blue, fishing seems to have become a passion, and rods and bait suddenly a focus that was previously nowhere on the horizon. First there appeared fly rod #1, a Redington 4-piece number that comes in a cool beige canister. It was unwrapped with pride and I hope I seemed very enthusiastic. I was secretly thinking it was probably a good thing that there was only ONE fishing rod in the bag. I will go fishing when pigs fly!

A couple of days later, there came an urgent request. The head of household had to be out of town, and there was going to be another price lowering over at the Warehouse.

Therefore, it was necessary that I wend my way over there to determine if fly rod #2 was still there--- which of course had to be a certain size and color. I politely did not ask who it was for. When I arrived at the parking lot that evening, I found myself absolutely thrilled for just once that I still don’t own the Mini Cooper I’m going to get one day. The lot was filled with pick-ups, and I mean big shiny nice ones.

Any one of them could have hauled my Mini out of there

and no one would in the US, Canada, notice. Actually, any UK and around one of those trucks the world as well. could have parked We have the usual right on top of my media excitement mini and no one over big news but it would have noticed remains to be seen that either. Feeling whether or not this slightly intimidatwill be a true paned, I walked right demic. I certainly into that store and hope not!

Cheryl Hodges followed signs to All the same, I FISHING. Finding am thinking most just a few left of the requested of us are eyeing someone brand, I finally asked for help coughing a little differently; and ended up speaking with a rethinking hugging our budreally great fellow who helped dies hello; and canceling our me match up the rod with its trips to Mexico. As for our case and graciously gave me kids, this could be a huge mess the bad news: no more reels since they don’t listen to us left in the brand I wanted. I about much of anything, espefigured it would be ok since at cially things like hand washleast I tried. It turns out this ing. Most kids will wash their particular worker was plan- hands regularly when pigs fly! ning on going back to college Back at home, I found myself so no feeling sorry for him as casually looking through the he finished out the last days on sale Warehouse “loot,” which the job. It’s always nice to hear included such compelling about silver linings. items as more fish flies, a turShopping is fine with me but key call, and a funny looking places like Sportsman’s Ware- thing which is about half wood house have the word “man” in and half green rubber, about 8 their name for a reason. Imag- inches long. It almost looks like ine my excitement when on a giant whistle, so yes, I blew a quick trip to Charlotte last into it. No whistle there—just a weekend for a Frisbee tour- sound like a pig snorting! Yes, nament, we had to put Bass there is also a pig call, and you Pro Shop in the GPS as a “via too can have one if you check point”—as in we’re stopping out primos.com. It sounds just there! I decided enough was like a pig and my Brittany absoenough so I waited in the rus- lutely loves it. This is very bad tic lounge area in the front of timing here though, because in the store and found myself the midst of a potential swine staring straight at a rather ma- flu pandemic I really, REALjestic looking stuffed moose, LY don’t want a bunch of pigs while scrounging for reading heading for my house, and picmaterial. The newspaper I turing that, I am especially glad found trumpeted more good that pigs DON’T fly! news which is now old news: there is a swine flu scare. Cases Contact Cheryl at are originating in Mexico but cvhodges@aol.com there have been some reported

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540-400-0990 Publisher | Stuart Revercomb | stuart@theroanokestar.com Features Editor | Pam Rickard | pam@theroanokestar.com News Editor | Gene Marrano | gmarrano@cox.net Production Editor | Stephen Nelson | stephen@theroanokestar.com Technical Webmaster | Don Waterfield | webmaster@theroanokestar.com Advertising Director | Vickie Henderson | advertising@theroanokestar.com The Roanoke Star-Sentinel is published weekly by Whisper One Media, Inc. in Roanoke,Va. Subscriptions are available for $44 per year. Send subscriptions to PO Box 8338, Roanoke,VA 24014. We encourage letters from our readers on topics of general interest to the community and responses to our articles and columns. Letters must be signed and have a telephone number for verification. All letters will be verified before publication.The Star-Sentinel reserves the right to deny publication of any letter and edit letters for length, content and style.

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

5/1/09 - 5/7/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 5

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Beware What Ye Adopt Lest You Bring Home a K-Ninus Rosconius

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ave you ever been "Jethro", a one year old Bassett paging through Hound, in a local tabloid. Jethro your local newspa- had been abandoned by his preper and come across a photo vious family, leaving this poor of a dog that is up for adop- pup in a farm house to fend for tion? Cute aren't they? This himself. Neighbors heard a disendearing snapshot might have tant howling night after night even started thinking about coming from the vacant house, what it would be like to own a and, realizing that his family dog. Thoughts of healthy trots had fled, rescued Jethro and dearound the neighborhood with livered him to the local shelter. your new leashed buddy start Jethro spent one week in the to race through your mind, and shelter before his photo was you may even begin posted in the newsdreaming of those paper. That's were cold winter nights me and my family snuggling with your come in. own personal furry Owners of a Coon heater. My friends, Hound, a Beagle before you start Mix and a female browsing the aisles at Bassett Hound, we Petsmart, I implore were among the you to ask yourself many admirers who two very important visited the shelter to questions; "Why are check out this beauJon Kaufman these beautiful puptiful, but abused pies so easily availdoggy. The shelter able and for what reason are staff asked us a battery of questhe previous owners jettisoning tions and my wife filled out a their best friend"? questionnaire designed to weed A few years ago I spotted out any freaks that might have

unholy designs on poor Jethro.

Prior to leaving we were told that over thirty individuals had shown interest in Jethro and it would take them a week to sort things out and call us about our claim. We left the shelter thinking that the percentage of adding Jethro to our family of hounds was minimal.

The next morning we are wakened by a call from the shelter informing us that we were, in fact, the winners of the Jethro sweepstakes and that they would be dropping him off in fifteen minutes. The shelter director arrived with Jethro, snapped a picture of us with him, and bolted out of our home like someone had set her hair on fire.

Something just didn't seem right. The woman dumped off that pooch like an unclaimed al-Qaeda carry-on, and shot out of the door, but why? Over the next few weeks it became it became very apparent to us why Jethro was delivered in such haste.

Although Jethro was a beautiful hound, he was also a trouble-maker of the highest order.

This dog ate EVERYTHING! In the first week he consumed . Three pairs of white socks . One tube of lip balm. . One bag of milk chocolates. . One basket of potpourri (both the basket and its contents) . One deck of cards (My son wagered that the pup might poop an ace high straight the next morning). . One bag of Hall's "Mentolyptus" Cough Drops . .. and, for dessert, an entire box of Nyquil Gel Tabs (he slept until 2pm the next day).

His previous owners must have waited until he was fast asleep, pulled the moving van up to the back door and evacuated in the middle of the night!

Among his other charms, Jethro (now re-named Roscoe) loved to jump into the bathtub and snack on a variety of shampoos, soaps and lotions, leaving a tell-tale trail of paw prints in his wake and earning himself a new moniker "The Bathtub Bandit." A few soapy regurgitations and some terse words from Janet soon curbed that behavior.

Since his adoption Roscoe has forsaken his fondness for unusual cuisine and has moved on to more conventional behavior. In an effort to help the less fortunate, Roscoe serves as a twice daily barking reminder when Shiloh (our blind diabetic beagle mix) is in need of his insulin injection. These alerts do not come as a few well-placed "woofs" (ala Lassie), but as a cease-less siege of howls, precisely timed on the "nines." Our

Preacher’s Corner Resurrection Morality by All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.

I John 3:3

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t is springtime, when a young man’s thoughts turn to…baseball. I wanted to be a baseball player, desperately. I wasn’t very good, though I tried for many years. I can remember well my father, his pipe hanging from his mouth, shouting, “Hit it again!” as he caught a feebly hit ball and pitched it back to me in the waning light of countless southern spring evenings. I tried. He tried, Lord knows, he tried. To no avail. Little league was bad enough, but as the boys got older and the ball was pitched with more salt and pepper on it, it became obvious that my hand-eye coordination was never going to allow me to hit a good fast ball “down and in”, nor a curve ball of any sort. All the practice in the world wasn’t going to compensate for genes. I might get better, but I would never be good.

So, as my father before me, and so many fathers of all generations, I threw the ball to my sons and daughter, with varying degrees of hope. I would watch as they dejectedly dragged their bats back to the dugout after whiffing that third strike yet again, and I will confess that it was more painful to watch than I had remembered it being to actually fail myself. With each of them, over time, I had The Talk.

I’m sorry. I know you want to play baseball. Good for you. But you have your father’s genes.

With a lot of practice you may be better, but I’m afraid you will never be good.

I encouraged my children to take up another sport, preferably one that didn’t involve a ball, one that is more in keeping with their genetic make up. They are all long-legged. Try track. That’s a sport that requires no coordination. Given some long legs and a high pain threshold, the harder you work, the more you practice, the better you get… really.

Now, without watering down

the very real demands of the Christian experience, the demand for purity of life and life-style, the demand for repentance and effort to be moving ever-closer to what God intends for us, I would like to suggest that those of us who feel inadequate to live the life of purity to take another tack. Instead of concentration on how far we fall short, let us begin to concentrate on the goal, because, I believe with all my heart that each of us has what it takes to be the person God intends us to be. Because each of us is made for love. Each of us is made and equipped to be championship carers. Each of us has the wherewithal to be world class self-givers. Each of us is made for God. For the Christian, the moral life is summed up in the words of Christ, Love the Lord God with all your heart, mind and strength, and your neighbor as yourself…everything else will be covered if you do that. In the end then, the moral life is not really about us, or our performance

Tupper Garden

at all, but about Christ and our relationship with God as he is revealed in Christ.When our focus is on some standard, some list of dos and don’ts, some expectation that we have for ourselves and others, we invariably fail, and worse yet, we fall into judgment of others who do not carry about in their heart’s pocket the same list as we do, or who are even less successful than we at fulfilling the list’s demands! But, if our focus is on him, and his intention for us, his love for us, his presence with us, and upon others, all of a sudden the whole ball-game changes!

The message of the resurrection is a simple one: The love of God that was revealed in the life of Jesus of Nazareth, was poured out for us in his death for all the world.That death was not the end of love, but the beginning. For death is overcome in the life of Christ, and the love of Christ explodes from a sealed tomb and into the world…the very real world in which you and I live even today.

Mulch 'n More

We are commissioned to go out into the world with that message and as the embodiment of that love.And we need not fear that we are not good enough. We aren’t good enough!

We don’t have to be. We only have to be in relationship with that love and grow in it until it becomes more and more our nature. Here then is our hope: Christ will make us worthy vessels of his love as his love changes us.

With a lot of practice, you may be better, but you’ll never be good.That’s true of baseball.And, it is true of living a holy life by simply trying to be better as our own personal project. But, it is not true of relationships, and it is certainly not true of a relationship with Christ. We may not have what it takes to be good in ourselves, but we do have what it takes to love…all of us do.

Tupper Garden is the Senior Minister at Raleigh Court Presbyterian Church Visit them on the web at rcpres.org

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guess is that some time in his youth Roscoe must a have eaten an alarm clock. Unfortunately this Bassett has no snooze button.

While relaxing in the yard Roscoe likes to pretend that he is a cheetah, prowling amidst the monkey grass at a stalkers pace. Poised to strike, Roscoe will spy Mya (our coonhound) and imagine her as a lone Antelope lost in the Serengeti. Without warning the mighty hunter will spring from the underbrush pursuing his prey at top speed.

(Note: Bassett Hounds possess but three speeds; slow, slower and reverse. Four if you count sleeping). Occasionally Mya will dial down her gait to make the romp a little bit more challenging; however, Roscoe has yet to land his target.

Through all of his quirks Roscoe is now a beloved remember of our family. I could not imagine living without him, although I still keep a packed bag by the door, just in case.

Contact Jon at Jon.Kaufman@sprint.com

Ƈ Community Involvement Ƈ Affordable Housing Ƈ Funding availability from local, state, and federal sources

An exciting slate of speakers! Ƈ Local housing hero Geraldine Barber-Hale Ƈ Former Cave Spring High School football standout, Rondé Barber Ƈ Keynote speaker, town planning and traditional neighborhood expert Tom Low Ƈ Affordable housing champions, Charlottesville Mayor, David Norris and Norfolk Councilwoman, Daun Hester

For more information, visit the Council of Community Services’ website (www.councilofcommunityservices.com) and follow the link to the 2009 RRHN Housing Symposium page.

Registration deadline is May 5.

Perspective

Page 6 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/1/09 - 5/7/09

TheRoanokeStar.com

Walking the Not-So-Golden Streets of Chisinau Moldovia

Really, this bus I just boarded is fit for the scrap heap. Someone taps me on the shoulder as the beat-up conveyance lurches forward. I turn to find the lady behind me handing me money, several small bills of lei, the local currency. Hmmm, what is this supposed to mean? She notes my blank look and gestures to hand it forward. I do so and follow the bills’ trip up 12 rows of seats to the driver, who produces change and sends it back to the rear of the bus in the same manner. Hmmm, that’s different. Looking ahead I spy the grey, uninviting façade of the medical institute, and I get off at the next stop.

In the dimly-lit building I proceed to the office of the dean of the dental school, Seravio Ancana. Dr. Ancana’s grasp of English is only somewhat better than my grasp of Moldovan. Not good. We get along remarkably well, however, not only with the occasional presence of a translator, but with the use of a phrase book and creative gesturing. I’m half way through a three-week

D

gig as a visiting lecaround a large table turer at Testamitanu in his office, chatMedical Institute in ting and drinking Chisinau, Moldova, coffee and tea. There and I’m starting to is never any hurry get into the swing of to do anything; the things. schedule is anything My anesthesibut tight. The old ologist friend Rocky communist ways of and I are staying in abysmal inefficiency an incredibly runpersist. down Soviet-style Dr. A announcJohn W. Robinson concrete apartment es –I’m paraphrasbuilding on the edge of the ing the Moldovan here- “This city, from which several fruit morning you will lecture on orchards spread across the foot- the properties of modern denhills.. Angela, our hostess and tal composite chemistry.� He landlady, explained the idio- and his cohorts smile broadly. syncrasies of the plumbing and OK I can do that, Seravio, and I demonstrated use of the battery mimic his big grin, trying not to of door locks. She warned us betray my minimal knowledge about letting anyone we didn’t of dental bonding chemistry know into the apartment, “in- at the atomic level. Faith and cluding the girls.� We laughed, confidence –real or imaginedbut her point was well taken. takes one down some interestIn Chisinau, as in other cities of ing roads. former Soviet states, there is an I’m headed back to the almost palpable undercurrent apartment after another mindof desperation and danger. One boggling day of teaching at the must stay on one’s toes. institute. I walk briskly and Dr. Ancana and several dental purposefully, the only way to faculty members are gathered walk in sketchy surroundings.

Chisinau was formerly known as Kishinev, in Soviet times, but these days there’s resentment of all things Russian, so Moldovan names have been restored, and folks are dropping long-spoken Russian and brushing off their Moldovan as the dominant tongue.

It’s April in Chisinau and the weather is beautiful. There is a cosmopolitan, relaxed feel on one hand, a gritty, black market feel on the other. The men are tall with sharp jaw lines. The women are pretty, the miniskirts incredibly short. Unfortunately, Moldova is known for its reputation as a source of trafficked women, girls tricked and trapped into slavish duty in countries across Europe.

Yes, the streets are awash with contrasts. Large German sedans are routinely sighted weaving among the mostly-industrial traffic of Boulevard Stephan Cel Mare. People still struggle with the left-over effects of communism. Undercurrents of apathy and desperation run deep. But there’s also a sweetness in the

air. Flower sellers and artists color the sidewalks. There are beautiful, albeit unkempt, city parks. Rocky and I attended one of the finest classical piano concerts I have ever experienced. .

Our new friends take good care of us. Evening meals are often multi-coursed, protracted affairs and include, as is typical on these types of adventures, dishes of unknown identity and plenty of the locally preferred alcoholic libation. Once Rocky found himself in the classic predicament of having an extremely potent hot pepper half-way down his throat. Proper decorum demanded that he calmly swallow it, although no amount of decorum would allow him to speak for several minutes. According to my journal, the following morning Rocky reported that he dreamed of riding on a motorized surfboard powered by frozen chicken parts. Could have been the pepper, could have been the cognac.

It’s our last day and I’m walking down the hill among the dingy apartment buildings to

say goodbye to one of my Moldovan colleagues, Nicolai. The women have hung their rugs from racks made for the purpose and are beating them with thick brooms in a rhythmic whack, whack, whack. As usual, the people are stern-faced and to themselves, but when I pull out my harmonica and play a few bars as I approach Nicolai, the babooshkas laugh and grin.

Nicolai bear-hugs me and puts his cheek to mine.

I’m on the plane now, 20,000 ft. over the endless dirt roads of Romania, headed to Budapest and home. I’m thinking the same thoughts that I always think whenever I leave a distant place: The friendships forged always transcend the expanse of miles and the even the vast differences in culture.

I’m really going to miss those people.

Contact John at jwr77@verizon.net

Does A Free Country Really Need A Central Economic Planner?

id you know that America has an unelected and unaccountable central economic planner? One more powerful than AIG and all of America’s big banks put together? It decides when inflation is too high – or not high enough, and can drive it up or down. It determines how high or low the interest will be on your mortgage, your car loan, and your credit cards. It controls how much you earn on your investments, from stocks and bonds to real estate (and even your business). It can print money at will and give that money to whomever it wants.

And although you have no say over these actions, you are ultimately responsible for paying the bill.

Your Virginia Congressmen have an opportunity to give you a say, but out of the 11 of them, only one so far has decided to take stand. (More on that later.)

America has had this central economic planner in place since 1913. It is the Federal Reserve, aka the Fed, and it is the central banking system of the United States. It was created by the government, but it is mostly a private organization. And even though it has such a huge impact on our economy, the American people, including members of Congress, aren’t allowed to see its accounting books.

I interviewed Ron Paul, Congressman from Texas and a former candidate for the 2008 Republican Party presidential nomination, for my radio show about the Fed. He has been talking about the unchecked power of the Fed for 20 years, and it’s just now that people are starting to listen. He gave me an eye-opening look at this intentionally secretive monster.

The two biggest functions of the Fed are ma-

STICKLEY Thank you event

nipulating interest rates and printing artificial boom is a major cause of the money. The Fed manipulates interest inevitable collapse that follows it. rates by raising and lowering them. If The Fed also prints money whenevthey go up, your next car loan, your er it wants, and it will be doing so soon next mortgage, or your next credit to pay for more bailouts and the bigger card is more expensive. Even goods government programs Obama is proand services you buy for cash may be posing. Money used to be backed by more expensive, as the people who gold in vaults, so you could turn in paprovide them often borrow money to per money for something that had real stay in business, and have to pass that value. Our money hasn’t had anything increased cost of borrowing on to you, backing it for decades, so all the paper the customer. stands for is the government’s promBrian Gottstein If, on the other hand, the Fed lowers ise that it will be worth “something.� interest rates, retirees – who are genWhen the Fed prints up new money erally invested in things that pay interest, such as with no backing, it makes the money we currently CDs and bonds – suffer because they can’t get as have worth less. It’s like having a pie. You cut it much income from their IRAs and 401(k)s. Ad- into six pieces. You don’t have another pie, but ditionally, when the Fed lowers rates, people buy you want to make it look like more, so you recut it things on credit that they would normally not be into 12 pieces. You’ve doubled the pieces, but you able to afford (SUVs, home entertainment cen- still have the same amount of pie, so each piece ters, and new homes) – just like they did before is now half the original size. In terms of money, our current economic collapse. This Fed-induced you’ve doubled the amount of dollars in circulation, but each dollar is worth half of what it was.

That means that now you have to pay twice as much for everything (thus, you have inflation).

I am the slowest The Fed also uses its newly printed money to carpet cleaner in Roanoke. loan out trillions to businesses, banks, and governments. And again, even though the American citizens eventually have to pay for it, the financial details of almost everything the Fed does are kept secret.

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In 96 years, the Fed’s attempts to “plan� our 2 rooms and a hall for $75 economy have played a major role in causing booms and busts, including the Great Depression 5 rooms and a hall for $155 and the economic crisis we are in today. Perhaps by having some oversight – or better yet, getting rid of this central planner altogether – we can preFurniture cleaning also available! vent such drastic economic downturns like this from happening again.

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5/1/09 - 5/7/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 7

TheRoanokeStar.com

Focus on Education

The ribbon is cut at Northside High School by Roanoke County Schools superintendent Dr. Lorraine Lange (at center), principal Frank Dent and others.

Northside Renovations Complete

The facelift at 40-year-old Northside High School was officially unveiled last week with a ribbon cutting and open house. A new two-story atrium impressed students, parents, invited dignitaries and others on opening night.

Spectrum Design of Roanoke drew up the renovation plans and Martin Construction took it from there. The project added 18,500 sq. ft. to the building, including new classrooms, labs, offices, conference rooms, a media center and outdoor courtyard.

Renovations will allow the front office staff to see visitors before they enter the school -something not possible before. A refurbished cafeteria,

County School Bus Drivers Compete in School Bus Rodeo

Three school bus drivers from Roanoke County Public Schools will showcase their driving talent at the statewide level this June after they won their respective events for the second year in a row at the Region 6 School Bus rodeo, held April 25 at Hidden Valley Middle School. The regional rodeo brought together 26 drivers from three different school divisions (Roanoke County, Roanoke City and Montgomery County). Drivers in each school system competed within their own school divisions in one of three categories: conventional bus, transit bus or special needs bus.

The winners for Roanoke County Public Schools are: Conventional Bus: 1st place: Greg Lampert (Glenvar area) – finished in 3rd place at 2008 statewide rodeo 2nd place: Megan Dix (Northside area)

Transit Bus: 1st place: Marie Pratt (Northside area) – finished in 1st place at 2008 statewide rodeo 2nd place: Joe Dudley (Cave Spring area) 3rd place: Buddy Bailey (Northside area) Special Needs Bus: 1st place: Linda Turner (Northside area) – finished in 3rd place at 2008 statewide rodeo First place winners in each division will represent their school system at the statewide school bus rodeo June 23 at Northside High School.

The statewide rodeo is part of the Virginia Association of Pupil Transportation Summer Conference taking place in Roanoke June 22-25.

auditorium, gym, updated plumbing and a new HVAC system that employs geothermal heating and cooling were also part of the project.

Northside is now connected to the public water system and no loner to private wells. A new roof, windows and locker rooms were also installed.

The parking lot and drop-off points were also reconfigured. With total price tag was $28 million, construction was completed in phases to minimize disruptions at the school. Ten trailers were used to house students that were displaced at various junctures.

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

Students Help Salvation Army during Project Faith Faith Christian School met its goal of raising more than $150,000 through its latest annual “Project Faith” volunteer day. Headmaster Sam Cox, teachers, staff members, parents and more than 300 students in grades K-12 worked last Friday at several different venues run by the Roanoke Salvation Army - including the community center on Salem Avenue and separate shelters it runs elsewhere for men and women. Overall, 443 volunteers donated more than 2,000 hours to the Salvation Army this year.

At the community center, the crew was planting, weeding, painting and mulching Art students created a mural that depicted Roanoke landmarks as well.

“400 people were involved,” said Cox. Faith Christian students also donated books for the Salvation Army library and helped reorganize the non-profit’s thrift store.

“Its just been a team effort…a lot of man hours,” said Cox of

an event that takes months to plan.

Junior Rhett Adams spent some of his time painting the trim on outside doors.

“It’s a great time for us to get out here and serve,” said Adams. “Some people struggle. I think we’re doing a great thing in helping improve the community here.”

Art teacher Krystin Marshall FCS students during a previsupervised the mural painting, ous Project Faith outing. using ideas submitted by stu- properties and at the Roanoke dents to work into the final de- Rescue Mission. sign painted on the large wall in “We wanted to help teach a stairwell. the kids about giving back to “Its been in the works for a the community,” said Cox. few months now,” said Marshall, “They are so enthusiastic. [They “they were looking forward learn] the world doesn’t revolve to it.” Art students in all grade around us.” levels helped decorate bulletin The Project Faith Committee boards at the community cen- is requesting ideas for Project ter, as well.

Faith 2010. Individuals or orgaProject Faith began as a nization interested in being conpledged walkathon to raise sidered as a recipient of future money for the school’s operat- Project Faith events, may send a ing budget. A service compo- letter to: Project Faith Commitnent was added eight years ago tee, Faith Christian School, 3585 and since then they’ve worked Buck Mountain Road, Roanoke, on greenways, summer camp VA 24018.

Green and Golden Apple winners and finalists (L-R) Erin Carroll, Lisa Weneta, Kathy Barber, Amy Crawford, Skip Larrington.

Vinton Teacher Wins 2009 Golden Apple Award “If you were ever lucky enough to be a student in Mrs. Barber’s class you are well prepared to deal with the world.” These are the words that describe why Kathy Barber, kindergarten teacher at W.E. Cundiff Elementary School in Vinton, has received the 2009 Golden Apple Award from the Roanoke County Public Schools Education Foundation.

Each year teachers from across Roanoke County Public Schools are nominated by students, parents, co-workers and administrators. This year 86 teachers were nominated to receive the award – 24 teachers were named as semi-finalists. In addition to the Golden Apple Award, the Education Foundation also named three Golden Apple finalists, one for the elementary school level, one for the middle school level and one for the high school

level. The Golden Apple finalists were Amy Crawford – Glenvar Elementary School P.E. teacher; Lisa Weneta – Hidden Valley Middle School English teacher; and Skip Larrington – Hidden Valley High School computer programming and web design.

The Education Foundation also recognized a new teacher who has taught in Roanoke County for three years or less. This is called the Green Apple Award. The winner of the 2009 Green Apple Award is Erin Carroll, a 3rd grade teacher from Glenvar Elementary School.

“We are so proud of all the educators in Roanoke County Public Schools,” said Education Foundation Chairman Troy Kincer. “Each year it is a very difficult job selecting the best of the best and this year was no different.”

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Sports

Page 8 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/1/09 - 5/7/09

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

Photo by Bill Turner

Hidden Valley #1 player Sammy Schwartz (Above) returns a shot in his 6-1,6-1 win over Cave Spring #1 player Chris Coffman. Schwartz is undefeated (9-0) on the season.

Cave Spring #1 player Chris Coffman (Left) serves.

PH Baseball Streak Continues Revenging a loss earlier in the season, the Patrick Henry Patriots baseball team defeated the visiting Bassett Bengals 6-5, behind the steady pitching of senior hurler Kemper Steffe and the red hot bat of Yates Sayers.

Steffe limited the Bengals to seven hits over six innings, bolstered by fine defensive work

by Sayers, first baseman Austin "Goose" Dillard and catcher Will Kaufman. The offense was provided by left-fielder Brad Sowers who went 3-3 with 2 runs scored and a prodigious three run homerun by the afore-mentioned Mr.

Sayers who continues to feast on area pitchers, posting a year-to-date batting average of nearly .500.

Sophomore Aaron Burton closed the door on Hidden Valley and Cave Spring met for their annual the Bengals inducing a double-play followed by spring sports day, when the two schools play each other in a variety of events at the same a soft ground-out to second to end the game. time.

In boys tennis it was no contest â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Titans of Hidden Valley defeated the Knights of The Pats will take on district rivals E.C. Glass Cave Spring 9-0. and Franklin County at home this week as they look to improve on their 3-1 divisional record.

Spring Sports Day:

by Jon Kaufman Jon.Kaufman@sprint.com

Williams Recognized at North Cross: Glenn Williams was honored for his outstanding academic and athletic career at North Cross prior to his final home appearance for the Raiders Monday afternoon. His parents Mark and Donna were on hand as well.

Williams helped lead North Cross to the VIS state football championship last fall as the Raider quarterback Photo by Bill Turner and was point guard for the North Mark Williams, North Cross tennis coach Art Cross basketball team this winter. He Thompson, Glenn Williams, Donna Williams played in the #1 position as a member of the boy's tennis team. Williams has accepted a scholarship to attend William & Mary in the fall.

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The Patriots experienced an unanticipated overhaul to their roster in the offseason, losing two seniors as well as several other key contributors who decided not to play this season for academic reasons. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A few of them have been accepted to some pretty good colleges, and I think their priorities were in different places,â&#x20AC;? Head Coach Whitney Wright said.

Offsetting the departures has been the emergence of four freshmen, as well as a transfer from Cave Spring.

The newcomers have proved very capable, and as a result,

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The Lady Patriots have also gotten an unexpected boost from senior center back Maggie Dent, who will play for Roanoke College in the fall.

Dent tore her ACL playing for the Roanoke Star less than six months ago, but was cleared for full contact several weeks back. In the three games she has appeared in, the team has yet to be scored on.

Currently, Patrick Henry sits at 6-3 overall (3-1 in district play), tied with Franklin County in the standings. This will be a judgment week of sorts, as the Patriots take on both E.C. Glass and the Eagles, their main competition for the district crown. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the time Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been here, this team is the most capable to win the district and advance out of the first round in the regional tournament,â&#x20AC;? Wright said.

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the Patriots havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t skipped a beat. Having coached several of them on her Roanoke Star club team, Wright wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t surprised. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I actually expected the younger girls coming in to really step up this year,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very coachable and are willing to do whatever it takes to make the team better.â&#x20AC;?

It also doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hurt to have Kate Norbo on your side.

Norbo, who will play for the University of Virginia in the fall on a partial scholarship, is the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unquestioned leader, as well as its leading scorer.

In the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent four-game winning streak, Norbo has averaged four goals per game. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She really brings the leadership I need, and she has learned how to motivate the other girls,â&#x20AC;? Wright said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard not to want to win when you watch her play, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an inspiration to the rest of the team.â&#x20AC;?

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Sports

More PH Athletes Sign

Patrick Henry High School seniors Jenny Young and Miriam McGeath are the latest Patriots to sign college letters of intent that will enable them to continue their athletic pursuits this fall. Young will play volleyball for Catawba, a Division II NCAA school, while McGeath will swim for Duquesne University in Pittsburgh.

Young, a defensive specialist and outside hitter, was allWestern Valley District and will play in a statewide AllStar game. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve worked really hard and appreciate all of the coaches,â&#x20AC;? said Young after a signing ceremony in the PH library.

Ginger Hamrick is head coach for the Patriots volleyball squad, which won the Western Valley District title last fall and then bowed out in the regional playoffs. Young will study athletic training and interned at The Edge training facility (Thirlane Road) as part of a sports performance track while in high school. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great facility,â&#x20AC;? said Young, who also trained at The Edge. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to run a business like that.â&#x20AC;? She also ran track for Patrick Henry and plays on the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s varsity soccer team.

McGeath swam for the Gators program in addition to competing for the Patriots. She

5/1/09 - 5/7/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 9

Fleming Players to Hit the Gridiron in College

William Fleming High School saw two of its senior â&#x20AC;&#x153;O Lineâ&#x20AC;? standouts commit to colleges this week: Dionte Hall (offensive tackle) will go to UVAWise, while Kurt Matthews is headed to West Virginia Tech.

Both were on hand for a signing ceremony Monday, surrounded by family, coaches and friends. â&#x20AC;&#x153;[Dionte] made sophomore mistakes but stuck with it,â&#x20AC;? said Colonels head coach Rob Senseney before his two offensive linemen put their pens to paper. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He did a great job.â&#x20AC;?

Both Hall and Matthews excel in academics as well. Senseney Photo by Gene Marrano said Matthews came on strong Miriam McGeath (left) and Jenny Young sign letters of intent. as a senior starter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just a great kid. He believed in himself more and more everyday.â&#x20AC;? placed 6th overall in the state ing athletes.

Senior quarterback Der(Group AAA) for the 200m Athletic director Patty rick Brown will play football at individual medley this year.

Sheedy said the five signees Charleston (WV), while Jesse Duquesne is located in PH will send on to compete in Jenkins is going Washington Suite in Charming OldtoSW downtown Pittsburgh, which college thisOffice fall, â&#x20AC;&#x153;had the aca& Lee. The Fleming linebacker has enjoyed a renaissance of demicNear andCommunity athletic partHospital of the - Visible from Franklin Rd. earned a full academic scholarsort in recent years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have puzzle. They represented the ship. The Colonels were 9-2 last a lot of fun,â&#x20AC;? said McGeath, program well.â&#x20AC;? Sheedy hopes 900 Sq. Ft. Approx. year, and despite losing a handwho was impressed with the the media hoopla and signful of talented seniors, Senseney Handicap Accessible schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s swim team and its ing ceremonies will inspire saidParking the Colonels will be okay as Front and Rear coach on a recruiting trip. other Patrick Henry athletes: they move into their new stadiAdditional Space The 400m medley and the â&#x20AC;&#x153;it gives them something theyAvailable for Expansion um. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We feel pretty good about 200m breaststroke are her spe- want to go through.â&#x20AC;? the kids [returning],â&#x20AC;? Senseney cialties. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I just fell in love with Owners Eager Eage - $850/month or Best Offer said. their team,â&#x20AC;? said McGeath, Hall said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;hard work and who will be a physical therapy commitment, â&#x20AC;? would enable Get your choice of 3 months free rent or $1,000 By Gene Marrano major. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just work really hard him to play for thelease Cavaliers at in gift cards with qualifying 3-year gmarrano@cox.net and go to practice every day,â&#x20AC;?

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coachesâ&#x20AC;Śmy technique got better and I got stronger.â&#x20AC;?

Wise head coach Bruce Wassum, on hand for the signing, said Hallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s athletic ability, aggressiveness and size attracted him. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The whole package. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exactly the type of young man youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for, coming from a great program.â&#x20AC;? There are two Kurt Matthews, Dionte Hall other ex-Colonels on the roster and Derrick Brown: Colonels at the NAIA school, which went going places 8-3 last season.

Matthews will pursue an en- play another position besides gineering degree at WV-Tech. quarterback at Charleston, perâ&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lifelong dream to play haps wide receiver or defensive college ball,â&#x20AC;? said Matthews, back). â&#x20AC;&#x153;Both [of them] protected who had kudos for the Colonels coaching staff. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They turned me my backside all season long. We into a great football playerâ&#x20AC;Ś knew if we needed that yard we could run behind them,â&#x20AC;? Brown they pushed me.â&#x20AC;?

Derrick Brown stopped by to said. greet two of the offensive lineBy Gene Marrano men that protected him in the gmarrano@cox.net Fleming backfield. (He may

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Sports

Page 10 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/1/09 - 5/7/09

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

Photo by Bill Turner

Titan starting pitcher #2 Kelsey Crotty delivers a pitch in Tuesday's game.

Photo by Bill Turner

Hidden Valley #1 Courtney Harmon scores past Cave Spring catcher Olivia Ferguson in the Titanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s come-from-behind win.

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Arts & Culture

TheRoanokeStar.com

5/1/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 11

Wiley & Watts Crank Up Long Island Philharmonic

Brookville, NY - Two men took very different paths getting to the same place April 18. One was from New England, educated at some of the best institutions in the country.

The other was from Troutville, with a degree from Virginia Tech. One took his usual flight from Roanoke to LaGuardia, then a long drive out to Long Island – the routine he has perfected into a science. The other put the family in the minivan and drove a few miles to the Patchogue (pronounced Patchhog) Theatre of the Performing Arts in Patchogue, New York.

Their paths met on Saturday at 8 pm when they shared a performance.

Maestro David Stewart Wiley led the Long Island Philharmonic Orchestra in a performance featuring renowned pianist Andre Watts. Norris Harvey enjoyed the show along with his wife Joanne, a violin teacher, and three of his five children. Joshua, Josiah and Hope Harvey are all learning instruments and they are all a part of a home schooling group.

Maestro Wiley had recently perfomed an outreach youth concert in nearby Melville and

the New York State “Loving Education at Home” school group was in attendance. The Long Island Philharmonic partnered with the group to provide discounted tickets for some 75 people at the event in Patchogue.

Comparing Long Island to Roanoke, Norris Harvey said, “Long Island people will put it on the line a little bit more.

They’ll let you know exactly how they feel.”

Many said they felt great about David Stewart Wiley and the work he was doing with the orchestra in Long Island, praising their Conductor.

Culminating in a concert that featured Watts playing Beethoven’s Emperor before intermission, Wiley brought his orchestra back out with Mendelssohn’s tribute to the British Isles, “Symphony No. 3 in A minor”.

Wiley and Watts wrapped up the weekend with another performance Sunday evening, (April 19), at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts at Long Island University’s CW Post Campus. The majestic facility with impeccable acoustics which seats over 2,000 was nearly full. Because of the ad-

David Wiley and Andre Watts perform in New York. vantages of this concert hall, Wiley was able to orchestrate a performance that opened with Mendelssohn’s Symphony, then finished with Maestro Watts (who had played at the Tilles Center during the 1981-82

season) and the orchestra executing Beethoven’s Emperor again.

Wiley demonstrated his command of the people, the pieces and his musicians. During the Mendelssohn piece, he

Opera Roanoke Review

Metropolitian opera star soprano Alyson Cambridge joined with Maestro David Stewart Wiley, the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra, choirs of Liberty University, Radford Singers, and the Roanoke Symphony Chorus in a concert "Voices of Hope" Monday night at the Roanoke Performing Arts Center. The opening selection was "Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5 by Villa Lobos, which featured eight cellists led by Kelley Mikkelsen, and Ms. Cambridge. This was followed by Brahms "A German Requiem, opus 45" which was sung by all of the choirs, accompanied by the orchestra. Additional guest soloist was well known and highly regarded baritone Kevin Maynor. In addition to performing all over the world, he is a Fulbright Award winner and studied at the Bolshoi in Moscow.

The performers were rewarded with a standing ovation.

Text and photo by Jim Bullington

Thanks to Opera Roanoke's sempre libera ("always free") policy, it’s a great time for students of all ages to experience opera at this weekend’s production of Giuseppe Verdi's "Otello" at the Jefferson Center.

Performances by local stars may add to the appeal, as the Roanoke College Children's Choir, as well as a Roanoke attorney, will join student choirs from Virginia Tech and Liberty University in the production, along with the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra. “‘Otello’ is perhaps the most dramatic and passionate of all 19th-century opera," said Opera Roanoke artistic director Steven White, who will conduct. "Verdi was able to take a large Shakespearean play and set it to an opera as great as the original work."

Based on William Shakespeare's early 17th-century play, “Otello” is the story of the tragic undoing of a Moorish general in the Venetian army.

Because of the play's themes of love, racism, jealousy, and betrayal, it remains one of Shakespeare's most popular works and has been adapted into other forms including film.

LeClairRyan attorney Nick

Leith will assume the role of "Roderigo," a wealthy Venetian gentleman. Leitch also appeared in Opera Roanoke's performance of "Falstaff " in the fall of 2008. Tenor and Metropolitan Opera regular Allan Glassman will perform the part of Otello, while Barbara Shirvis plays Otello's wife, the beautiful Desdemona.

For those who don’t speak Italian, the performance will be super-titled with real-time translations in English. Performances are Friday evening, 8:00 pm, and Sunday, 2:30 pm, in the Jefferson Center's Shaftman Performance Hall. For tickets or more information, call (540) 982-2742.

won the audience as he drove the playful beat of the British Isles. Later, it was as if at times, the heather could actually be felt brushing against those in the crowd. As the piece was finishing, Wiley captured the precision and formality of the old world. A warm response greeted the Maestro.

After intermission, the audience clearly appreciated Watts’ respect for the piece. This powerful melody stayed throughout the three movements. Together Wiley and Watts raised the level of performance of the musicians and in the end another standing ovation greeted the accomplished team.

Most in attendance simply returned home after the show.

For Wiley, it was just the middle of an incredibly busy week of music, travel, work and family.

By the time he and Watts took their last bow, he had already been through two long practices, two big shows, a number of other smaller performances

and classes all over Long Island. He’d traveled with companions, greeted sponsors and board members and reviewed his music for upcoming shows.

Even after returning the rental car late that night, he still had a full week of work ahead.

Monday morning marked an early flight back to Roanoke. After that it was a walkthrough for a concert at the Jefferson Center, followed by two more practices that day.

More performances, as well as meetings, and music decisions, all combined with the joys of raising two small children with his wife Leah. Fortunately for Wiley, his day, like his music, is filled with both precision and flexibility.

It is a gift the Harveys and their family in Long Island, and those in 3the Roanoke Valley, can enjoy and embrace – in either location.

By Bruce Bryan info@theroanokestar.com

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Page 12 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/1/09

Arts & Culture

TheRoanokeStar.com

Roanokeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kirk Avenue Music Hall Offers Unique Experience

Stephanie Koehler is a regular contributor to the Star Sentinel and formerly served as personal assistant/publicist for Linda Ronstadt. She currently owns her own public relations and marketing firm in Roanoke.

If you ask anyone with experience in the music industry, the sentiment may be the same. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The greatest musicians and vast majority of people who have â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and still do -- influence music the most, seldom become a household name.â&#x20AC;? In fact, most of them live rich â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but quiet â&#x20AC;&#x201C; lives in small towns and cities all over the country. They are creating transformational experiences for young artists, experi-

noke are a perfect example.

With a curiosity about what makes a city thrive and an understanding that live music is the heartbeat of a community, Katherine and Ed Walker had an idea -- create a place for that â&#x20AC;&#x153;heartbeatâ&#x20AC;? to develop and grow; create an environment for that experience to happen.

It started by supporting the emerging artist culture that is alive and well in Roanoke, and by creating the Downtown Music Lab (now housed in the Jefferson Center), over 9 years ago.

The next logical step was to find a place for these artists to share their music with audiences -- a place like Kirk Avenue Music.

Arguably, the most pivotal step was bringing musical industry icon, Gary Jackson (former Cellar Door sound man and promoter) into the loop, and giving him room to run. Perhaps itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a stroke of genius. Perhaps itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good instincts. Perhaps itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just plain old luck. Whatever the catalyst -- the Roanoke community has been blessed with an remarkable gift and opportunity in Jackson.

For most music fans, The Cellar Door in Washington, DC needs no introduction â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but just in case â&#x20AC;&#x201C; here is some background: In the mid to late 1960â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and early 1970â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when music served

as an enormous vehicle driving societal change â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a small music club in the shadows of Georgetown became known for showcasing emerging talent. Neil Young. Muddy Waters. Little Feat. Miles Davis.

BB King. Graham Parsons. The Flying Burrito Brothers. James Taylor. Jackson Browne. Jimmy Buffett. Linda Ronstadt (whose band later became the Eagles).

Emmylou Harris. Peter, Paul & Mary. And the list goes on.

It would be difficult to find a musician from that era who didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find their way across that Gary Jackson works the sound board at the Kirk Avenue Music Hall. stage. In fact, many of them recorded live albums in the space enced musicians and audiences Gary Jackson and Kirk Avenue â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Milesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Davisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; The Cellar Door in seemingly obscure places. Music Hall in downtown RoaSessions being perhaps the most famous. It was a cultural and musical incubator, an experience, and it worked.

While itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fascinating to look back on the success of The Cel"Glass fronts with the Red Doors" lar Door â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is most important to understand why it was 401 Campbell Ave. Roanoke a success. The answer is quite simple. There were visionary 540-491-9563 people â&#x20AC;&#x201C; like Gary Jackson -Large selection of Quality, LIGHTLY Used Furniture at an who realized there needed to be affordable price. Stop by & check us out.

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I have attended countless Member of shows at Kirk Avenue since Roanoke Regional then I have only recognized a & Salem/Roanoke County few band names. But much like Chambers of Commerce the old days â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I go home having CertiďŹ ed heard great music, having met Virginia SWAM interesting people, and looking Dealer forward to the next show. It is an incubator, an experience, and it works.

Like most humble people, the spotlight is not a comfortable place for Jackson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It fills my cup to be a part of the Kirk Avenue Music experience. If the audience feels they have discovered something new each time they come, then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth every bit of work,â&#x20AC;? Jackson said.

Kirk Avenue Music Hall is lo" 8 cated at 22 Kirk Ave. downtown 1 Roanoke. While reservations 4 are taken in advance, tickets for all shows are sold at the door. & All proceeds from both ticket sales and the bar are donated to the Music Lab in support of their scholarship program. For reservations or more information visit www.KirkAvenueMusic.com.

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Roanoke Youth Symphony Concert

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On Sunday, May 10, 2009 at 3 p.m. the Roanoke Youth Symphony Orchestra (RYSO) and the Roanoke Youth Symphony Junior Strings will present their Spring Concert in Shaftman Performance Hall at Jefferson Center in Roanoke.

The concert will begin with the Junior Strings performing various selections for string orchestra and concludes with a performance by the RYSO, featuring James Ritchie, the winner of the RSO's 2008 Young Artist Awards, in a performance of the third movement of the "Concerto for Marimba and Orchestra" by Anders Koppel. Ritchie is a senior at Blacksburg High School and is in his final year as a member of the RYSO percussion section. Other selections on the program include Mussorgky's "Night on Bald Mountain," Rimsky- Korsakov's "Capriccio Espagnol," and an arrangement of the finale from the Fifth Symphony of Shostakovich.

Valley Business

TheRoanokeStar.com

5/1/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 13

VDOT Completes Scheduled Elimination of 450 Wage Employees

Remaining 230 Positions to Be Eliminated by June 6

Photo by Gene Marrano

Gwen Mason (at the podium) with members of the Clean & Green Business Coalition.

Clean & Green Report Card Issued

Roanoke City’s Clean & Green Business Coalition came together last week for a one-year status report on Warehouse Row. The group of key local companies vowed to lead the way when it comes to reducing carbon footprints, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Mayor David Bowers called Roanoke City councilwoman Gwen Mason, cochair of the group with Stan Breakell (Breakell Construction), “a leader in this effort for clean and green.”

Roanoke City also vowed to reduce its carbon footprint by two percent a year as a member of the coalition.

“We’re just beginning to scratch the surface,” vowed Bowers, who noted that the city had recently earned the Virginia Municipal League’s

first “Green Government Challenge,” honor for its efforts.

Coalition member Berglund Chevrolet has reduced its carbon footprint by 7% in the past year, in part by reducing the lighting on its car lot.

“We think the future holds promise for further reductions,” said Berglund spokesman Bill Tanger.

Among the other coalition members, Breakell Inc. purchased a fleet of hybrid cars, Carilion Clinic increased its recycling efforts and Orvis reduced its kilowatt usage 33 percent by switching to fluorescent lights at its local warehouse.

“It’s been great to see us come together,” said Stan Breakell, who is also beta testing a plugin hybrid car designed by a

Virginia Tech spinoff.

Mason called the first year results “a truly great report card. They’re putting their money where their mouth is… truly remarkable.”

Ten thousand tons of carbon dioxide and a 13% overall average footprint reduction was realized among the Clean & Green members in 2008, according to Breakell. He pegged the energy savings at $1.3 million for the group. The idea is that their zeal for reducing greenhouse gases will spread to other companies and residents in the valley.

“Sustainable practices and energy management makes extremely good business sense,” Breakell said.

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) began notifying 230 hourly employees across the commonwealth today that their employment will end on June 6 as the agency moves to reduce staffing costs. The cuts are one element of a comprehensive plan designed to address the $2.6 billion shortfall in transportation revenues over the next six years.

The agency announced in February that it is seeking to reduce its overall staffing levels by 1,000 full-time employees and 450 wage staff over the next 18 months. As of Jan. 1, 2009, VDOT employed nearly 600 hourly employees and approximately 8,400 full-time, salaried employees.

Attrition and the normal seasonal reduction of part-time employees who assist only with winter snow-removal operations have already reduced the number of wage employees on staff. The 230 remaining wage employees to be released to reach the reduction goal of 450 hourly positions were provided their notification today.

VDOT estimates it will have 7,500 classified employees by July 1, 2010.

Affected part-time wage employees throughout the agency were notified beginning today of the schedule for their positions being eliminated. VDOT is offering these employees transition assistance including job search and resume writing training. As wage employees, these staff members are not eligible for severance benefits.

“The reality of our budget shortfall means that we have to prioritize spending on safetyrelated projects and to maintain our existing highways,” said David S. Ekern, VDOT commis-

sioner. “None of these are easy decisions for us to make. We know that these decisions will impact the public and the lives of our valued professional staff, but we must make the sound business decisions necessary to ensure the long-term viability of Virginia’s transportation system and our department.”

VDOT will focus its resources on emergency response efforts, maintenance and operations.

In February, the Commonwealth Transportation Board enacted the first phase of the costcutting plan when it reduced the number of new highway projects that will be built. The revised six-year improvement program cut $2 billion in funding, delaying or eliminating 808 projects statewide.

The second phase involves staffing changes and organizational restructuring including reductions in wage and temporary employees and full-time staff.

The third phase focuses on reducing spending on VDOT’s programs and services, including: •Reducing Rest Areas and Welcome Centers •Reducing Ferry Services •Reducing Safety Service Patrols •Reducing Interstate Maintenance Services •Reducing Vegetation Management VDOT recently completed 11 public meetings around the commonwealth to collect public feedback on these service reductions. Final decisions in these areas will be communicated in May and June.

For more information about VDOT and the Blueprint for the Future visit www.VirginiaDOT. org.

Frith Anderson & Peake PC Joins The International Society of Primerus Law Firms

The International Society of Primerus Law Firms, a highly selective alliance of small to medium-size, independent law firms, has accepted the law firm of Frith Anderson & Peake PC into membership.

Frith Anderson & Peake PC is a full service law firm providing a broad range of legal services, with an emphasis on civil litigation.

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Lt. Governor Bolling Talks Energy in Roanoke

Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling appeared in Roanoke earlier this week to discuss his and Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell’s “More Energy, More Jobs” program, which strives to address the two most pressing issues facing the nation: the economy, and energy security.

“If the people of Virginia will give us the opportunity to lead …Bob McDonnell and I will make Virginia the energy capital of the East Coast,” Bolling said in his statement. One of his possible Democratic challengers, Jon Bowerbank, touted his own ideas on energy in Roanoke the week before.

Bolling, running for a second term, spoke at the O. Winston Link Museum, chosen because of its close proximity to the rail lines, which serve as an artery for coal distribution across the nation.

“Roanoke is kind of a distribution center for many of the initiatives that we have proposed,” said Bolling. He mentioned the Dominion Energy project currently under con-

struction in Wise County and the ODEC project planned for Surry County. “[Virginia is] the Saudi Arabia of coal,” Bolling said.

Bolling also pointed out that as the future site of the first nuclear reactor to be built since 1996, Virginia is in a unique position to become the leader in nuclear energy technology.

He reiterated the GOP ticket’s commitment to making Virginia the first state on the East Coast to begin exploring and developing offshore energy resources, hoping to move forward with the sale of leases – currently scheduled for 2011 – as soon as possible.

Bolling cited a recent study by Old Dominion University that claims the development of these resources could produce 25,000 new jobs, $8 billion in capital investment, $644 million in taxable wages, $271 million in state and local tax revenue and $160 million per year in royalty payments to Virginia.

“We need these jobs, and we need this money to help address important needs in our

state, like improving the quality of the educational opportunities we provide to our children and building a transportation system for the 21st century,” Bolling said.

Bolling also discussed his and McDonnell’s commitment to renewable energy sources and “green jobs,” such as the proposal of an income tax credit equal to $500 per job for qualified companies that create quality green jobs, up to 350 jobs each year for the first five years.

Bolling said that he intends to utilize all available energy sources, including nuclear power, clean coal and natural gas, as well as alternative energy like wind, solar and biofuels.

The comprehensive plan, he said, is what sets the Republicans apart from the Democrats in the race. “We’ve embraced alternative energy sources, we’ve embraced reasonable conservation measures - but we want to embrace traditional energy sources as well,” Bolling said.

“We’ve proposed a comprehensive energy solution, while our opponents say ‘no’ to traditional

energy sources.”

In order to advance research for developing new energy sources, Bolling said he would support the development of the Virginia Energy Institute.

“The purpose of the institute would be to bring together the academic research capabilities of our major research universities, community colleges and other higher education institutions under one canopy to help focus efforts on developing energy technologies for the 21st century,” Bolling said.

“There is no limit to what this new Institute could do to help advance new and emerging enPhoto by Caitlin Coakley ergy technologies in our coun- Bolling focused his remarks on energy during his appearance try,” he added. at the O. Winston Link Museum.

The McDonnell-Bolling Although a definite location the nation’s leader in technolticket would also support the has not been established yet, ogy,” Bolling said. “In order to establishment of the Center for Energy, which would “work Bolling noted that the two cen- achieve the goal, we created the with local economic develop- ters would probably be located Center for Innovative Technolment organizations and Indus- in Southwest or Southside Vir- ogy, and as a result, Virginia trial Development Authorities ginia. He drew a comparison today is the nation’s leader in to make certain that we maxi- between these new agencies and technology. We can do the same mize the potential for energy the Center for Innovative Tech- thing in energy.” related investment in Southside nology in Northern Virginia.

“Twenty years ago, we estabBy Caitlin Coakley and Southwest Virginia,” said lished a goal of making Virginia info@theroanokestar.com Bolling.

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Page 14 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/1/09 - 5/7/09

TheRoanokeStar.com

Local High School Students Help Rebuild Roanoke Several national volunteer projects came to fruition over the weekend, involving everything from handing out information on teen drug abuse, to patching holes in roofs.

Global Youth Service Day 2009 featured high school students who volunteered their time everywhere from the Kiwanis pancake breakfast to the West End Center, from the Ronald McDonald House to the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

Global Youth Service Day is described as the largest volunteer initiative in the world. Locally, young people painted at West End Center, helped spruce up Highland Park and hosted a social event for veterans at the VA Hospital. In all, more than a dozen volunteer projects were scheduled for the 600 registered youth.

Elsewhere, the annual Rebuilding Together Roanoke, brought volunteer crews to more than 30 homes in the valley, making repairs for low-income residents. Volunteers from Sears, K-Mart and the Military Officers Association of America helped out at the homes of veterans or veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s widows.

A crew from Building Specialists was busy at the home of Ordine Lopez in the 1600 block of Salem Avenue. Replacing roof shingles, damaged closet doors, weather stripping and adding insulation was in order, â&#x20AC;&#x153;things that she needs â&#x20AC;Ś to make her house more livable and efficient,â&#x20AC;? said marketing director Sandy Murray.

Building Specialists crews have participated in the Rebuilding Together event before, which takes place across the country annually during April. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a huge asset for these people in the neighborhood who have homes but canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford to renovate them,â&#x20AC;? said Murray.

Many of the 32 homes selected for repair on Saturday (from a pool of 100-plus applicants) were made more energy efficient, as well. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just pleased to be able to help in whatever way we can,â&#x20AC;? said Murray, as Vice President David Hirst repaired a front door nearby.

Lopez watched television basketball highlights from her couch as volunteers milled about her home, which was built by Habitat for Humanity volunteer crews.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am glad that Rebuilding [Together] is helping me to get my house together,â&#x20AC;? said Lopez, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I feel great.â&#x20AC;?

Ed Murray is the local executive director for Rebuilding Together Roanoke, which is funded by grants and scholarships.

Speaking in the Hurt Park area, where three homes across from the elementary school were being worked on, Murray said he expected to receive additional funding that will allow the program to become a year round effort, not just a â&#x20AC;&#x153;splashy eventâ&#x20AC;? every spring. Several summer/fall projects are usually scheduled as well. Murray said there is a chain reaction, of sorts, once houses are selected and repaired. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We find that the neighbors begin to work on their homes, and the whole neighborhood gets improved,â&#x20AC;? Murray said.

Homes of the elderly poor would be one focus of a year-round program; Murray said there was â&#x20AC;&#x153;an inexhaustible supply of homes [in Roanoke City] that people have been unable to keep up. There are lots of circumstances where people just need some work [done].â&#x20AC;?

By Gene Marrano

which is helping to devise an overall transportation plan for the valley. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is really a first pass,â&#x20AC;? said Jake Gilmer, a planner for the Regional Commission, and part of a team that will meet with planning commissioners, county supervisors, chambers of commerce and other groups to share the publicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision of what a better 419 might look like. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking at a long range plan that would cover a 20-30 year time frame,â&#x20AC;? said Gilmer. Some of the near-term action items could include more turning lanes and better traffic light timing, while landuse decisions along the corridor are more long term. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most people that live here or drive [on 419] daily think about the traffic congestion, and accidents and safety. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the primary thing people come to the table with.â&#x20AC;?

Expect another public meeting to be scheduled in the next few months in an effort to move the process along. Two

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Jim Lee, Liz Belcher and Barbara Duerk look at possible bike lanes and greenways in the 419 corridor. consultant groups have been mapping the corridor, analyzing who uses the road and when.

Gilmer would like to get a local government â&#x20AC;&#x153;buy inâ&#x20AC;? this summer, then have a document produced that can help guide decision making in the future when it comes to development along the Rt. 419 corridor.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is fairly new for our area,â&#x20AC;? said Gilmer of the public input process on a road that has frustrated many a driver. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hoping to get more in depth.â&#x20AC;?

By Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net

The Roanoke Star-Sentinel We cover the Roanoke Valley like no one else!

Bowerbank said he liked the fact that the downtown Higher Education Center designs its worker training programs with detailed input from local employers that are seeking specific skills: â&#x20AC;&#x153;thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m looking forward to seeing what is going on here in Roanoke.â&#x20AC;?

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Hoo Tipops ff

Lt. Governor Candidate Touts Energy Plan

Jon Bowerbank, a businessman and Russell County atlarge supervisor, is one of three Democrats seeking his partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nomination for Lt. Governor on June 9. The winner in that race will face incumbent Republican Bill Bolling this November. Mike Signer and Jody Wagner, who have both worked for then-Governor Mark Warner, are also seeking the Democratic nomination.

Bowerbank was in Roanoke last week to tour the Higher Education Center, an example, he said, of the type of facility that can train Virginians for the new economy.

Alternative energy sources and green jobs are at the top of the list for Bowerbank, who moved to Virginia in 1994 and spent 10 years working for Conoco-Dupont, in what he calls â&#x20AC;&#x153;non-conventional energy production.â&#x20AC;? Part of that work included the extraction of natural gas from un-mined coal. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Originally no one thought it was possible, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s turned into an economic engine for [far] southwest Virginiaâ&#x20AC;Śthat rivals coal production,â&#x20AC;? said Bowerbank. He advocates â&#x20AC;&#x153;a total portfolio approach,â&#x20AC;? to future energy production, and said it is no longer pie-in-the-

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Route 419 Input Sessions Begin What can be done to make Route 419 from Tanglewood Mall to I-81 in Salem a better stretch of highway? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the question VDOT and the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission will be posing to local residents over the coming months, asking for input on the 9.5 mile road that handles much of the traffic in southwest Roanoke County.

During the first public input session held recently, attendees were split into groups, poring over maps at Hidden Valley Middle School as they discussed topics such as bike lanes, more sidewalks, natural buffers, park and rides, connections to greenways and road improvements like better traffic light coordination. â&#x20AC;&#x153;From my house Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to get to Tanglewood [by bicycle],â&#x20AC;? said Barbara Duerk as she helped draw lines for bike lanes.

The session was called a â&#x20AC;&#x153;visionary exercise,â&#x20AC;? and the ideas will be digested by VDOT and the Regional Commission,

For more information visit our website at

Photo by Gene Marrano

A volunteer crew from Roanoke City works in Hurt Park.

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Lt. Governor hopeful Jon Bowerbank stops in Roanoke.

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sky campaign rhetoric. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have the initiatives to create [green] jobs.â&#x20AC;?

Bowerbank started his own business in the energy service sector more than 10 years ago and now employs â&#x20AC;&#x153;a lot of people that build things.

Those services and skill sets will be in acute demand,â&#x20AC;? he said. Now, he said he wants to â&#x20AC;&#x153;give back, hopefully to the Commonwealth of Virginia as the next Lt. Governor.â&#x20AC;?

Bowerbank expressed support for all three of the Democrats who want to run for

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governor, saying a strong topof-the-ticket could help him if he is the nominee. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more importantâ&#x20AC;Ś is that we grow our economy back. Unemployment [over six percent statewide] affects everybody,â&#x20AC;? Bowerbank said.

Stating he also wants the Lt. Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role to be more than the two-month long position, he said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to make the job a full time position.â&#x20AC;?

First, he simply hopes that voters can remember his name on primary day, June 9.

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Letters to the Editor City Council Focus Askew

Response to Goodlatte

Dear editor, I think the glow emanating from the Mill Mountain Star must be extra high lately and is affecting the thought processes of our citizens. With all the difficult problems facing the City, the one seemingly getting the most attention is the plight of Joyce Johnson, who may, or may not, soon be the former Administrative Assistant to the Mayor. There is even a website with a petition advocating she remain in her current position. I don't recall any websites advocating giving more money to the Roanoke City School System so this is obvious a very important matter.

To put things in perspective, or at least the perspective I'm looking at: During the joint City Council - Roanoke City School System, Dr. M. Rupert Cutler, newly appointed member of the council, replacing Mr. Nash and bringing with him six, count them six years of previous council experience, asked how many employees of the school system would lose their jobs because he wanted to make sure "the pain was shared.”

At the time the School System did not know what their bottom line, financially, would be and had repeatedly stated 90% of their costs were personnel costs. Dr. Cutler's question, then, ranks right up there with among the dumbest I've ever heard.

The amount of shared pain has now been determined. For the Roanoke City School System 89 employees will be without jobs next year. For the Roanoke City Government it is zero employees who will be without jobs, because layoffs of city employees are bad for morale.

Joyce Johnson may no longer be the Administrative Assistant to the Mayor (whomever he may be) but Ms. Johnson will not be without a job within City Government, assuming she chooses to accept whatever position is offered her.

I am sure the 89 employees of the school system would like to have that option. It would make their morale much higher.

Our esteemed, Mayor David is for the little people, whatever that means. Apparently, he is not for shared pain if he feels it will personally inconvenience him since he is whining that he cannot do his Mayor job without Joyce.

My opinion is that Mayor David would best serve the City by confining his activities to leading parades. I suppose an Administrative Assistant could polish the Grand Marshall's baton. However, since he is now referring to the City Manager as the City's Chief Executive Officer it is clear he has abdicated the position.

That being the case he does not need an administrative assistant.

Dear editor, Congressman Goodlatte is a good man, but he has some bad ideas. Eliminate the tax code before we have a new one in place? That’s like ousting the President with no line of succession and no plan for replacement.

The tax code is “overcomplicated”? That’s because everyone and their brother has lobbied for special deductions, and wants to use them. The better argument for eliminating those deductions is that they tend to favor people with lots of money for “savings and investment” -- exactly the kind of “promotion” and “encouragement” that Goodlatte proposes to complicate the tax code with!

And surely Goodlatte doesn’t blame the complicated tax code for the tax boss of all bosses, Treasury Secretary Geithner, not paying his taxes?!? As a moderate Obama voter, I deeply regret Geithner’s appointment in light of the fact that he failed to pay taxes that even I, a self-filing taxpayer would have known to pay. (Tom Daschle’s case was more sympathetic, but unfortunately for him, second to hit the media.)

Goodlatte implies that the current tax code is “grossly unfair.” I challege Goodlatte to publish his draft of the Federal budget, specific in its new tax code and in what services and spending he proposes to cut. I won’t hold my breath, though.

116 (39 %) at Forest Park and 78 (16%) at Addison. The two projects totaling $544,653.00 ($326,000.00 allocated for Lucy Addison Middle and $219.000.00) for Forest Park Elementary School will be used for infrastructure improvements around the two schools and in surrounding neighborhoods. Projects will include new shared-use path connections; new lighting along the Lick Run Greenway in Washington Park, and infill side walk construction in neighborhoods. Another $25,000.00 program grant will go toward P.E. teacher training on the Bike Smart Virginia Curriculum to teach students how to ride safely, as well as conducting educational activities with their families.

Yet it appears that within months of June, 2007 plans were being made to close Forest Park Elementary School and in fact Superintendent of Roanoke City Public Schools, Dr. Rita Bishop and the Roanoke City Public School Board closed Forest Park Elementary School and any bicycles acquired for Forest Park were given to Huff Lane School.

Lucy Addison Middle School students received their bicycles last year.

Why during February, 2009 did City Manager Burcham and Superintendent Bishop request $25,000.00 for Safe Routes to Schools (SRTS) for Lucy Addison Middle School?

Have the infrastructure projects been completed? If not, why? What happened to the money allocated for other improvements?

Our officials, Burcham and Bishop, should be transparent, truthful and held accountable for the $500,000.00 of grant funds received from the Virginia Department of Transportation.

1 believe our neighborhood schools (Forest Park Elementary and William Ruffner) have been closed to the detriment of our community because of extremely poor administrative decisions. It appears Roanoke City has returned to its shameful past practices of destroying schools in predominantly black communities, leaving a void that cannot be replaced.

Jeff Vanke Roanoke

City School Budgets Dear editor, According to a Roanoke Times article “A Better Path to School” published September 23, 2007, the City of Roanoke and the Roanoke City Public Schools, on June 14, 2007 in a joint effort were awarded three safe routes to school (SRTS) grants totaling $544,653.00 from the Virginia Department of Transportation to promote walking and bicycling as a means of safely getting students in Grades K 8 to and from school.

Addison Middle School and Forest Park Elementary School were pilot schools chosen for the program because a significant number of their students already biked or walked to school: about

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514 West Main St. Salem, VA 540-556-7463

Sunday, April 26th marks Debt Day for the 2009 fiscal year. This is the day the government starts paying for federal spending by borrowing money rather than using its revenue.

This means that all of the money spent from Washington the rest of this year will either be borrowed from other countries or borrowed from future generations, in turn increasing our federal debt dramatically.

It is no secret that the American people are facing a very tough economic climate. Families and small businesses are cutting back on expenses. As economic uncertainty continues, many across our nation are looking to the government for leadership during this difficult time. In these challenging economic times it is even more important for government to control spending. The federal government must work to both eliminate every cent of waste and squeeze every cent of value out of each dollar our citizens entrust to it. With families and small businesses all across our nation making tough decisions each day about what they can and cannot afford Congress should not be allowed to ignore these tough decisions when creating spending policies for the federal government.

Unfortunately, instead of supplying real solutions, the Democrat-controlled Congress has responded to the call with unprecedented spending of taxpayers’ dollars. The stimulus package that passed in February increased debt by $1 trillion, even though the Republican alternative would have provided twice as many jobs at half the cost. In addition, the Majority in Congress passed a $400 billion omnibus spending bill that only funds the government for seven months, while Republicans called for a spending freeze in order to curb spending. Instead, both bills were passed by Congress and signed into law forcing our children and grandchildren to foot the bill.

Congress has a spending addiction – one that’s been around

for decades and afflicts both collective $100 million from parties – but instead of reining their budgets in the next 90 in spending the recent vote on days. To put this in perspective, the Democrats’ budget resolu- at our current pace it only takes tion takes this irresponsibility about 13 minutes for the fedto a new level. Just a few weeks eral government to spend $100 ago the House passed a $3.6 million. While I appreciate the trillion budget resolution which President’s attempt to reduce will dramatically increase the government spending, this cut amount of debt in America. amounts to about 0.0025% of According to the Congressio- his record-breaking $4 trillion nal Budget Office, in spending for this the House passed year alone. This is Rep. Bob Goodlatte budget will procertainly a meager duce $3.9 trillion in spending reducdeficits over the next five years. tion in the wake of months of Sadly, the total debt incurred by reckless government spending. the nation as a result of these irThe American people know responsible spending bills will that we can’t borrow and spend cripple America’s future. The our way back to prosperity. The debt per capita is currently path to our economic recovery about $35,000 and in just eight starts with fiscal responsibilyears it will double to $70,000. ity in Washington. The federal Our children and grandchildren government must follow the exwill be forced to bear an unprec- ample set by our nation’s famiedented burden as a result of the lies – tighten the budget and Democrats’ policies. Doubling eliminate wasteful spending. the debt is no solution.

The future of America depends Recently, President Obama on it. called on his cabinet to cut a

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5/1/09 - 5/7/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 15

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Page 16 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/1/09 - 5/7/09

TheRoanokeStar.com

Community Calendar > May 1

Jekyll & Hyde - The Musical Conceived for the stage by Steve Cuden and Frank Wildhorn. Book and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse, music

by Frank Wildhorn.Two shows at Hidden Valley High School: April 30 & May 1 at 7:30 p.m.

> May

Land Trust to Hold Workshops for Attorneys, CPAs The Western Virginia Land Trust will hold three continuing education workshops for area attorneys, CPAs, and other interested pro-

SUNSHINE TOURS 2009 TOUR SCHEDULE

Date

Tour

Per Person Price

May 2 May 3-9 May 4 May 6-7 May 9-10 May 9 May 11, 12 May 11-14 May 13 May 13-30 May 15-17 May 18 May 20-24 May 21-Jun 4 May 22-25 May 23-25 Jun 1-7 Jun 1-3 Jun 6 Jun 7-13 Jun 9-17 Jun 11 Jun 12-14 Jun 12-28 Jun 13 Jun 14-20 Jun 14-17 Jun15 Jun 16-18 Jun 16-19 Jun 16-24 Jun 19-21 Jun 20-29 Jun 26-28 Jun 27-Jul 3 Jun 28-Jul 4 Jun 29-Jul 5 Jul 7-26 Jul 8 Jul 8 Jul 8-25

North Carolina Zoo/Asheboro, NC ................................ 50 Branson, MO/America’s Music Show Capital ............ 995 Greenbrier Hotel Bunker Tour...................................... 90 “Behold the Lamb”/Lancaster, PA/2-Day Trip ........... 275 Tangier Island/Monticello/Chesapeake Breeze.......... 260 Concord Mills/Bass PRO Shop/Charlotte, NC ............. 45 Andy Griffith’s Mayberry/Mt. Airy, NC .......................... 45 Atlantic City/Trump Taj Mahal/4-Day/Boardwalk ....... 275 Shatley Springs Inn/Fresco Paintings .......................... 45 San Francisco, CA & Pacific NW/Yellowstone........ 2,195 Washington, DC/Our Nation’s Capital ........................ 350 Billy Graham Museum/Stowe Botanical Gardens........ 55 Springtime in Vermont/Trapp Family Lodge .............. 975 Las Vegas/Grand Canyon/Hoover Dam................... 1,895 Gaither Family Fest/Gatlinburg, TN ............................ 675 Nashville, TN/Music City, USA/Grand Ole Opry......... 450 Niagara Falls, Canada/Montreal & Quebec ................ 995 Atlantic City/Trump Taj Mahal/3-Day/Boardwalk ....... 210 Carowinds....................................................................... 75 Branson, MO/America’s Music Show Capital ............ 995 Hawaii/Honolulu/Waikiki ........................................... 2,250 Phantom of the Opera/Charlotte, NC .......................... 120 Washington, DC/Our Nation’s Capital ........................ 350 The Great SW & California/Grand Canyon .............. 1,995 D-Day Memorial/Smith Mountain Lake/Luncheon ....... 85 Florida’s Walt Disney World/Sea World ..................... 995 Atlantic City/Trump Taj Mahal/4-Day/Boardwalk ....... 275 Greenbrier Hotel Bunker Tour...................................... 90 Jamestown & Colonial Williamsburg.......................... 395 Ohio Amish Country/Longaberger Basket Co ........... 550 Hawaii/Honolulu/Waikiki ........................................... 2,250 Washington, DC/Our Nation’s Capital ........................ 350 Nova Scotia & The Atlantic Provinces of Canada .. 1,295 Dollywood/Smoky Mountains/T. G. Sheppard ........... 395 Michigan & Mackinac Island/Grand Hotel ............... 1,195 Branson, MO/America’s Music Show Capital ............ 995 Niagara Falls, Canada/Montreal & Quebec ................ 995 Canadian Rockies & Vancouver............................... 2,495 “Showtime at the First Baptist Church”/Barter ........... 65 Billy Graham Museum/Stowe Botanical Gardens........ 55 San Francisco, CA & Pacific NW/Yellowstone........ 2,195

Jul 10-24 Jul 12-19 Jul 12-26 Jul 12-Aug 9 Jul 24-26 Jul 29 Jul 31-Aug 2 Aug 2-10 Aug 5-7 Aug 6-9 Aug 9-15 Aug 10 Aug 12-29 Aug 12-14 Aug 14-17 Aug 15-16 Aug 22-23 Aug 29 Sep 2-4

Exploring England, Ireland, Scotland & Wales ....... 5,500 Summer in New England/Martha’s Vineyard .......... 1,195 Canyonlands/“Our Most Scenic Tour” .................... 1,895 Alaska & Canada’s Yukon by Motorcoach.............. 4,195 Nashville, TN/Music City, USA/Grand Ole Opry......... 450 “The Wizard of Oz”/Barter Theatre ............................... 65 Renfro Valley & Lexington, KY.................................... 375 Polar Bear Express/Canada ..................................... 1,350 “In The Beginning” & “Abraham & Sarah”/Lancaster .... 395 Philadelphia, PA & Baltimore, MD............................... 495 Niagara Falls, Canada/Montreal & Quebec ................ 995 Greenbrier Hotel Bunker Tour....................................... 90 San Francisco, CA & Pacific NW/Yellowstone........ 2,195 “In The Beginning” & “Abraham & Sarah”/Lancaster..... 395 Elvis/Tupelo/Memphis.................................................. 550 Baseball/Atlanta Braves/2-Games/CNN...................... 275 Tangier Island/Monticello ............................................ 260 “The Color Purple”/Charlotte, NC ............................... 130

Sep 5 Sep 5 Sep 5-7 Sep 7-10 Sep 9-11 Sep 11-13 Sep 11-13 Sep 13-19 Sep 13-19 Sep 13-15 Sep 17-20 Sep 18 Sep 23-Oct 4 Oct 2-8 Oct 1-2 Oct 3 Oct 3-4 Oct 4-10 Oct 4-10 Oct 5, 6, 7 & 8 Oct 9-11 Oct 10-26 Oct 11-17 Oct 11-26 Oct 12 Oct 13 Oct 13 Oct 14-15 Oct 14-28 Oct 14 Oct 15 Oct 15 Oct 17-Nov 5 Oct 19-21 Oct 20 Nov 6-8 Nov 14 Nov 14-15 Nov 14 Nov 15-18 Nov 18 Nov 19-22 Nov 25-28 Nov 27-29 Nov 27-29 Dec 1 Dec 1 Dec 2 Dec 3-7 Dec 4-6 Dec 4-6 Dec 6-12 Dec 7-8 Dec 7-11 Dec 9 Dec 9-10 Dec 11-13 Dec 11-13 Dec 12 Dec 19 Dec 26-31

D-Day Memorial/Smith Mountain Lake Luncheon,,,,,,,,85 North Carolina Zoo/Asheboro, NC ................................ 50 Nashville, TN/Music City, USA/Grand Old Opry ........ 450 Atlantic City/Trump Taj Mahal/4-Days/Boardwalk ..... 275 “In the Beginning” & “Abraham & Sarah”/Lancaster ..... 395 Myrtle Beach, SC/Fun & Sun at the Beach................. 395 Washington, DC/Our Nation’s Capital ........................ 350 Niagara Falls, Canada/Montreal/Quebec .................... 995 Branson, MO/America’s Music Show Capital ............ 995 Atlantic City/Trump Taj Mahal/3-Day/Boardwalk ....... 210 National Gospel Quartet Convention/Louisville, KY . 650 Greenbrier Hotel Bunker Tour....................................... 90 Nova Scotia, Canada & New England/Fall Foliage . 1,650 New England/Fall Foliage ............................................ 995 “In The Beginning”/2-Day Trip/Lancaster, PA ........... 275 Brushy Mountain Apple Festival................................... 45 Maggie Valley, NC/Great Smoky Mtn Railroad........... 295 New England/Fall Foliage ............................................ 995 Branson, MO/America’s Music Show Capital ............ 995 Cass Railroad/Cass, WV/Fall Foliage ........................... 75 Nashville, TN/Music City, USA/Grand Ole Opry......... 450 The Great SW & California/Grand Canyon .............. 1,995 New England/Fall Foliage ............................................ 995 China and the Yangtze River Cruise........................ 4,975 Andy Griffith’s Mayberry/Mt. Airy, NC/Lunch .............. 45 Shatley Springs Inn/Lunch/Fresco Paintings .............. 45 Greenbrier Hotel Bunker Tour....................................... 90 “In The Beginning”/2-Day Trip/Lancaster, PA ........... 275 Hawaiian Islands/Four Island Tour .......................... 3,695 Shatley Springs Inn/Lunch/Fresco Paintings .............. 45 Greenbrier Hotel Bunker Tour....................................... 90 Billy Graham Museum/Stowe Botanical Gardens........ 55 Australia & New Zealand/Outback to the Glaciers . 7,200 Atlantic City/Trump Taj Mahal/3-Day/Boardwalk ....... 210 Andy Griffith’s Mayberry/Mt. Airy, NC/Lunch .............. 45 Sunshine Tours Family Reunion/Gatlinburg, TN....... 450 Southern Christmas Show/Charlotte, NC..................... 50 Reading & Lancaster, PA Factory Outlets ................. 175 Concord Mills Factory Outlets ...................................... 45 Atlantic City/Trump Taj Mahal/4-Day/Boardwalk ....... 275 Southern Christmas Show/Charlotte, NC..................... 50 Biltmore House & Smoky Mountain Christmas ......... 675 New York City/Macy’s Parade/”West Side Story”... 1,095 Nashville/Country Christmas/Opryland Hotel............ 695 New York/Radio City Christmas Spectacular ............ 895 Christmas with “Elvis”/Barn Dinner Theater ............... 75 Grove Park Inn/Asheville, NC/Lunch ............................ 75 Christmas Lights at Tanglewood Park/Hanes Mall...... 40 Niagara Falls, Canada/Festival of Lights.................... 595 New York/Radio City Christmas Spectacular ............ 895 Nashville/Country Christmas/Opryland Hotel............ 695 Branson, MO/Ozark Christmas ................................... 995 Christmas at the Greenbrier Hotel .............................. 450 Charleston & Savannah/Christmas/Paula Deen’s ..... 795 Biltmore House & Gardens/Christmas ......................... 85 “Miracle of Christmas”/Lancaster, PA........................ 295 New York/Radio City Christmas Spectacular ............ 895 Nashville/Country Christmas/Opryland Hotel............ 695 Biltmore House & Gardens/Christmas ......................... 85 Christmas Lights at Tanglewood Park/Hanes Mall...... 40 Florida/Christmas at Disneyworld/Seaworld ............. 850

Jul 8-10

Sep 4-6

“In The Beginning” & “Abraham & Sarah”/Lancaster......395

“In The Beginning” & “Abraham & Sarah”/Lancaster......395 VA Tech vs Alabama in Atlanta (Ticket Not Included……275

All Tours Include Roundtrip Transportation by Modern, Air-Conditioned, Restroom Equipped Motorcoaches. All of our Motorcoaches are VCR and DVD Equipped and All have Extra Leg Room. All Tours are Fully Escorted and Include Hotel Accommodations, Baggage Handling at all Hotels and Admission to the Listed Attractions.

Cancellation Insurance is NOT REQUIRED on any Sunshine Tour, as we will REFUND ALL PAYMENTS FOR ANY REASON WHATSOEVER if you find it necessary to cancel your Reservation AT ANY TIME before the Tour Leaves.

**Prices shown are for Double (2 to a Room) Occupancy. Quad (4 to a Room) and Triple (3 to a Room) Occupancy is Available at a Slightly Lower Per Person Price. Single (1 to a Room) is also available at a Slightly Higher Per Person Price.

SUNSHINE TOURS 4430 Cleburne Boulevard

P. O. Box 2149

Dublin, VA 24084

fessionals in May. The workshops, entitled Conservation Easements: What You and Your Clients Need to Know, will cover the basics of conservation easements including legal and financial aspects and the appraisal process.Tuesday, May 19, Forest Library, Forest, 9 am-12 pm;Wednesday, May 20, Roanoke Higher Ed Center, Room 408, 9 am-12 pm;Thursday, May 21, Patrick Henry Community College, West Hall 127, Martinsville,1-4 pm.

Club.

Ministry Activities Center Opens Doors Grandin Court Baptist Church, 2660 Brambleton Avenue, opens the doors to its new Ministry Activities Center to the entire Roanoke Valley with a Wellness and Safety Fair on Saturday, May 9th from 9am- 12pm. All of the events on May 9th will be free to the public except the cholesterol test – which requires a $25 fee and pre-registration. For more information on the pre-registration or the Wellness and Safety Fair contact Patti Henkel, Ministries Activities Director (540) 7741684 ext. 14, or email mac@ grandincourtbaptist.org

> May 2

Mill Mountain Ringers Spring Concert The Mill Mountain Ringers, a community handbell choir directed by Joseph H. Kennedy, will present a spring concert on Saturday, May 2, at 7:30 pm.The 14 -member group performs on 5 octaves of bells and 3 octaves of choir chimes.The free concert will be at Windsor Hills United Methodist Church, corner of Mudlick and Windsor. Call 9897440 for information.

> May 10

Mother’s Day Concert Give Mom an afternoon’s reprieve that also benefits the much beloved Salem Choral Society for its upcoming 9th concert season.

Featuring Chopin, with Melia Garber on the piano,Aaron Garber at the organ and selected readings by poet, Richard Bansemer.

Refreshments served following the program.Antrim Chapel, Roanoke College, Sunday, May 10, at 3 pm. Admission $20; Students and children, 18 and under, no charge; advance tickets available at College Lutheran Church. For Reserved Seating or other information, call 540-761-4727.

Mayor’s Bike Ride Roanoke’s bike month kick off event will be on Saturday, May 2, with a 2 ½ mile bike ride from Wasena Parks Brick Shelter to the Mayors monument in Elmwood Park. Sign in: 9:30am Proclamations: 10:00am ·The Mayor will be presented an official copy of the Governors Bike Month Proclamation. ·Roanoke Citys bike month proclamation will be presented to area Bicyclists. ·The Blue Ridge Bicycle Club will recognize bicycling friendly individuals and organizations.

The Mayor will make announcements about city projects that will connect greenways.

Picture: 10:10am by John Hamill RIDE: 10:15am Parking for motor vehicles will be in the lot on Winchester Avenue near the ball fields. Roanokes Mayor David Bowers encourages everyone of all ages and riding skills to join him in bicycling on Roanokes Greenways and to enjoy the Strawberry Festival in Elmwood Park and the Chili Cookoff in Roanokes historic city market before an escorted return to Wasena park.

For more - contact 343-1616 orwww.brbcva.org

> May 14

Harp Ensemble Concert The Star City Harp Ensemble has been a self-conducting ensemble since September 2008.They are a group of harpists ages 10-18. Star City Harp Ensemble’s upcoming concert is titled “Harps Around the World.” This concert features pieces from China,Austria, Ireland, France, Cuba, Mexico and more!

It is at 7:00 at Calvary Memorial Church. For more information about the Star City Harp Ensemble or about “Harps Around the World,” e-mail harpensemble@gmail.com

> May 30

A Celebration of Services: Roanoke Valley Speech and Hearing Center 50th Anniversary Presented by Virginia Relay and the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Center of Roanoke When: Saturday, May 30, 2009; 10am – 2pm Where: Roanoke Valley Speech and Hearing Center 2030 Colonial Avenue S.W.; Roanoke, VA 24015. Educational opportunities will include demonstrations of the latest equipment and discussions of speech and hearing topics.There will be hearing dog demonstrations, tours of the center and free speech and hearing screenings. Organizations that serve children and adults with communication disorders will be on hand to share their information. This event is free and open to the public. Contact: J. Andree’ Brooks; President; Roanoke Valley Speech and Hearing Center; 540343-0165

> May 3

Talk on Pakistan Marianne Vermeer, missionary to Pakistan, will speak about her and her husband’s experiences as missionaries in that country.

The talk will be given during the worship service Sunday, May 3, at Green Ridge Presbyterian Church at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow where pictures will be shown and Rev. Vermeer will answer questions. Everyone is welcome.

Green Ridge Presbyterian Church, 7650 Alpine Road, northwest Roanoke County, off Peters Creek Road (sign). Contact: 366-7959. greenridgepres.com

> May 9

The 86th National Federation Music Club’s National Music Week The event will be celebrated at Tanglewood Mall, Roanoke,Va. on Saturday, May 9, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The theme, “Music…Poetry of the Heart,” is being presented by the Thursday Morning Music

Have an item for the calendar? E-mail it to submissions@theroanokestar.com TUES-SAT 10-8 SUN 1-6

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Commercial Industrial Churches Design-Build Pre-Engineered Renovations

Photo by Beverly Amsler

St. Francis Service Dog trainer Connie Kniseley tells Major to flip the light switch.

St. Francis Ready to Expand St. Francis Service Dogs is preparing to break ground May 22nd for a 5,000 square foot kennel to be built on its 18-acre site in Roanoke County. The organization currently places several service dogs a year with disabled children and adults, but executive director Cabell Youell says they will be able to train more dogs, in a shorter amount of time, with a kennel.

“It’s our goal to train between 20 and 25 dogs a year. Right now we place about ten dogs a year, and the reason for that [smaller number] is we have nowhere to house our dogs,” Youell said.

Dogs in the program currently stay in the homes of staff members or volunteers.

“If we have kennels, then our dogs that are in advanced training can stay here on our property,” said Youell. “Our trainers can come in…and work with the dogs all day. The dogs will stay here at night and it’s just much, much more efficient.”

Youell says the demand for service dogs, which can be trained to perform simple everyday tasks, is growing in Virginia. Some have waited up to five years.

“A lot of the people on our list are children and they need a dog now. [Many] have progressive disorders, and if we can get a dog with them sooner than later we can really help to mitigate or halt the progression of some of these conditions.”

In addition to a kennel for housing up to 30 dogs, the expansion project will include an efficiency apartment for a kennel manager, which Youell says

will allow the dogs to be cared for 24/7. There will also be isolation kennels, grooming areas, an exam space, a puppy playroom, outdoor runs, storage, and office space.

Future plans include turning the building where the St. Francis offices are now into a place where partners can stay while they train with their dog. With construction beginning in late May, the project should be finished by the end of the year.

St. Francis Service Dogs is looking to raise $1.5 million, to add to the $1.5 million in private donations already secured for the project. It takes about two years and $20,000 to train a St. Francis service dog. Youell says that investment will save between $80,000 and $100,000 in healthcare costs for the partner.

“I think people are also starting to recognize that service dogs are a pretty holistic approach to health care. Because not only can they perform all the amazing tasks that they’re trained to do, but they also help people with loneliness, anxiety, depression, and the bond that people have with these dogs gives them the courage to go out in public more, to do more, to enjoy a more enriching life,” Youell said.

St. Francis provides the dogs free of charge to its partners.

The organization doesn’t receive state or federal money and relies on private donations, grants, and fundraisers3 for operating expenses.

By Beverly Amsler info@theroanokestar.com

The Recipe of the Week from The Happy Chef

by Leigh Sackett

Roasted Red Potatoes with Garden Fresh Herbs

On these glorious new spring days we all seem to take the time to enjoy the outdoors. We marvel at the earth’s beauty and possibly even contemplate the gift that the earth is to us. I think it’s wonderful how some people live this way all the time – showing their appreciation of the earth in everything they do. Such a lifestyle can be really simple when you think about it. If we really believe that the earth has been given to us so that we could have life, then our response should be one of awesome wonder such that we recognize its Holiness and joyfully take care of it.

We could all do so much more to care for our this amazing creation we share. It’s so easy to be a part of the problem for the sake of convenience in this modern, fast paced world. I think that swiping my check card at large grocery stores to buy produce has somehow hardened my heart because this weekend when I saw fresh basil growing in my herb garden again I knew a truth and joy about this home of ours that we all too easily forget.

So on Sunday my family and I made the most outstanding meal to celebrate the gift of the land. For dinner we had grilled barbeque baby back ribs, fresh corn on the cob, broiled fresh tomatoes with havarti dill cheese and roasted red potatoes with garden fresh herbs.

During the dinner blessing we named each of these foods that we were preparing to eat and we thanked God for placing them on the earth not just for our nourishment but also for our enjoyment. It is summed up in the first prayer I ever learned and the one I say each day with my two year old preschoolers and my own children – “God is great, God is good let us thank Him for our food. Amen!”

2 lbs. red potatoes – sliced in quarters ½ cup olive oil ¼ cup chopped red onions 3 cloves of garlic, minced 1 tbs. fresh rosemary 1 tbs. fresh oregano 1 tbs. fresh dill 1 tbs. fresh thyme 1 tsp. garlic salt 1/2 tsp. ground pepper -Preheat oven to 450 degrees -In a really large bowl mix all the ingredients together -Pour into a 13x9 inch baking pan -Bake uncovered, stirring occasionally for 40 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown

5/1/09 - 5/7/09 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 17

TheRoanokeStar.com

Our Take: Roanokeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tea Party â&#x20AC;&#x201C; One Time

The Roanoke Star-Sentinel

Event or the Beginning of a Movement?

In the week since Roanokeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tea Partyâ&#x20AC;? demonstration took place, Riverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Edge Park has quieted. But have the demonstrators? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a one-time event,â&#x20AC;? said Dr. Alice L. Kassens, an economics professor at Roanoke College who has given recent seminars on the economic crisis. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think that people are very upset with how much money is being spent, and not being disclosed how itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s being spent.â&#x20AC;?

Although the Tea Party has come about as a protest against high taxes, the greatest complaint raised was how those taxes were being used. Kassens' theory echoes remarks made

by Pamela Williams, wife of House of Delegates Republican candidate Melvin Williams (17th District), who said last Wednesday at the protest that she felt the people were â&#x20AC;&#x153;very deceivedâ&#x20AC;? with regards to how their taxes were being spent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Anybody who thinks that the spending that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re creating right now is going to get us out of this recession, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re wrong,â&#x20AC;? Williams said.

Williams added that she believed the solution to the hurting economy was not to spend more of taxpayersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; money, but to give some of it back. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the money for this, and the way to fix the economy is to cut taxes and put money back in the peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pockets,â&#x20AC;? Williams said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Anybody who thinks that the government can spend money better than [citizens] can spend money is just wrong.â&#x20AC;?

Historically tax rates are actually at or near a record low; however Kassens believes that the number of bailouts and the money being given as a stimulus have created a â&#x20AC;&#x153;snowball effect,â&#x20AC;? which has prompted many taxpayers to put their foot down.

Photo by Caitlin Coakley

Tea party attendees in Roanoke are â&#x20AC;&#x153;mad as heck.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;In a matter of a few weeks, the public was told of several things that the government was spending money on,â&#x20AC;? Kassens said.

Dr. Nicholas Tideman, a professor of economics at Virginia Tech, believes that most Americans donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind paying taxes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as long as they reap the benefits. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think that while there is a significant minority that wants fewer taxes, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s probably a majority that want more government services and are willing to pay more to get it,â&#x20AC;?

Tideman said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;health care in particular, perhaps something more in education.â&#x20AC;?

The reason why so many are upset with the current spending, Kassens said, is that for much of the bailout money, there is no guarantee that the taxpayer will get any of it back.

Kassens said that while some of the programs included in the stimulus package may help jump-start the economy, many are concerned that the spending spree will do more harm than good in the long run. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spending on that magnitude tends to lead to massive inflation,â&#x20AC;? Kassens said. The inflation that may follow when

the economy picks up again, she adds, may hinder the recovery. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everything will become more expensive, and if your wages donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t keep up, you feel poorer and spend less,â&#x20AC;? she said.

Perhaps the heart of the matter is that people question the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to distinguish between stimulus spending and â&#x20AC;&#x153;just plain spending,â&#x20AC;? said Kassens.

To demonstrate, she had her macro-economics class at Roanoke College study the stimulus bill and find three things that will help boost the economy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;stimulusâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and three things that were just spending.

She said that while many of the programs would be considered stimulus â&#x20AC;&#x201C; programs that would create long-term jobs, for instance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it was easy to find others that were not. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spending money on something that creates a few jobs for a short period of time, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not stimulus. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not boosting the economy,â&#x20AC;? Kassens said.

Williams agreed with Kassensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; assessment of the bill, criticizing the current administration for its inability to â&#x20AC;&#x153;cut the fatâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the pork â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Roanoke Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Beautiful Cemeteryâ&#x20AC;?

spending bills. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are 9,000 pork spending bills that will do nothing to help this country,â&#x20AC;? Williams said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what happened to the scalpel that Obama said that he was going to have to cut out pork spending, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not there.â&#x20AC;?

Although hundreds of people if not more turned out last Wednesday along Wiley Drive â&#x20AC;&#x201C; some irate, some curious, some supportive â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kassens said itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s likely that many more share the same discontent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The president [did not win] by some overwhelming majority, so I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be surprised if there was at least half [the country] that felt that way,â&#x20AC;?

Kassens said.

Your NEW Prime News Team Jay Warren joins Karen McNew On Your Side Weeknights at 5, 5:30, 6 and 11.

ONLY on

By Caitlin Coakley info@theroanokestar.com

Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day / Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Celebration Sunday, May 10th 2009 at 11:00 a.m.

The JoyBell Sister â&#x20AC;&#x201C; LaVerne Norman Has a spiritual, motivational message for you!

We are rolling out the red carpet for Mothers Gift Blessing for the 1st 100 ladies!

LaVerne Norman

Jesus Is Lord ~ Assembly of Love Church Steven A. Norman, Pastor 702 Ferdinand Avenue Roanoke, VA 24016 Diagonally behind B&D Comics 540-342-1940

Honor your mother, or a special lady in your life, by bringing her to Church and your entire family will be honoring God!

3O MUCH MORE FOR YOUR MONEY AT 4HE 6ILLAGE ON 0HEASANT 2IDGE 4HE TOP CHOICE FOR INDEPENDENT RETIREMENT LIVING IN THE 'REATER 2OANOKE AREA

!T 4HE 6ILLAGE ON 0HEASANT 2IDGE WE ARE PROUD TO OFFER THE AREA S LARGEST MOST ELEGANT INDEPENDENT LIVING APARTMENTS FOR THE BEST VALUE IN A STUNNING NATURAL SETTING OVERLOOKING THE "LUE 2IDGE -OUNTAINS

Founded in 1928, Sherwood combines serene elements of nature with exquisite and carefully planned architecture on an expanse of more than 100 acres nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Veterans Garden to Open Memorial Legacy Stones Now Available

As a non-proďŹ t cemetery we are always looking for ways to enhance our beauty, and contribute to the community. That is why we are pleased to announce our beautiful new Veterans Garden to pay tribute to those who serve. You can be among the ďŹ rst to honor your Veteran in our Memorial Walkway by purchasing a Legacy Stone.

(Ten percent of the proceeds of each sale will beneďŹ t the American Legion Legacy Scholarship for the children of US military personnel who pass away while on active duty.)

s 'REATER )NDEPENDENCE AND 0EACE OF -IND /UR RESIDENTS LIVE VERY MUCH LIKE THEY DID IN THEIR OWN HOMES WITH THE ADVANTAGE OF LESS HOUSEHOLD RESPONSIBILITIES A MORE SECURE LIFESTYLE AND GREATER OPPORTUNITIES FOR MAKING NEW FRIENDS s 5NPARALLELED (EALTH AND 7ELLNESS 0ROGRAM /UR 0ATHWAYS PROGRAM WAS DEVELOPED UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF $R *OINER AND WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH HEALTH INFORMATION GUIDANCE HEALTH MAINTENANCE SCREENINGS MONITORING OF BLOOD PRESSURE AND BLOOD SUGAR HEARING AND VISION CHECKS

AND OTHER WELLNESS SERVICES TO HELP YOU MAXIMIZE YOUR HEALTH AND INDEPENDENCE s 3O -UCH TO $O 7ITH A FULL TIME ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR AND MANY COMMON AREAS TO ENJOY 4HE 6ILLAGE ON 0HEASANT 2IDGE OFFERS ITS RESIDENTS THE BEST LIFE HAS TO OFFER /UR FULL ACTIVITIES CALENDAR KEEPS LIFE INTERESTING s 6ILLAGE ,IFE AT 9OUR &INGERTIPS /UR RESIDENTS ENJOY THREE MEALS A DAY SERVED RESTAURANT STYLE IN OUR ELEGANT DINING ROOM A FULL ACTIVITIES CALENDAR SCHEDULED TRANSPORTATION THE CONVENIENCE OF AVAILABLE UNDERGROUND GARAGE PARKING AND MORE EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE REST OF YOUR LIFE s 4OTAL #ONTROL /F /NE S /WN &INANCES !T OUR RENTAL RETIREMENT COMMUNITY YOU CHOOSE HOW TO SAVE INVEST OR SPEND YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY AS OPPOSED TO PAYING A LARGE ENTRANCE FEE AS IS REQUIRED AT SOME OTHER COMMUNITIES 7ITH A SIMPLE MONTH TO MONTH LEASE YOU ARE IN TOTAL CONTROL OF YOUR FINANCES AND FUTURE s "RIGHT 3PACIOUS &ULLY %QUIPPED !PARTMENT (OMES 5NLIKE MANY OTHER AREA COMMUNITIES

WE OFFER WASHERS DRYERS AND FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHENS IN ALL OF OUR APARTMENT HOMES /UR APARTMENT HOMES ARE SPACIOUS AND BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED

Examples of legacy stones that will be inlaid into the Veterans Memorial at Sherwood

1250 E. Main Street Salem, Virginia 24153 www.sherwoodmemorialpark.com

540-389-1677

s 3TUNNING .ATURAL ,OCATION /UR "LUE 2IDGE 4ERRACE AND MANY APARTMENTS OVERLOOK THE MOUNTAINS ENJOY YOUR DAYS IN A STUNNING NATURAL SETTING

#ALL TODAY TO LEARN MORE

AND SET UP A PERSONAL VISIT AND TOUR 0HEASANT 2IDGE 2OAD 37 \ 2OANOKE 6! www.villageonpheasantridge.com

Page 18 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 5/1/09 - 5/7/09

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