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Aug 17 - 23, 2012

[The Roanoke Valley]

City Precinct Realignment Meetings Receive Little Interest

An Iconic Summer Skyline Political Putting

P3– Local conservative politicians enjoy a unique opportunity to have fun with the kids and discuss politics at the “Greater Grifﬁth Open.”

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Photo by Terry Aldhizer Five of downtown Roanoke’s primary icons shine out brightly beneath a beautiful summer sunset as captured by Roanoke Star contributing photographer Terry Aldhizer. Can you spot all five? The Hotel Roanoke is obvious enough in the center of the picture and The Taubman Art Museum is hard to miss in the left foreground - as is the well lit facade of Saint Andrews Catholic Church on the far right. If you’re looking a little harder the old Norfolk Southern Office building that is now the Roanoke Higher Education Center is evident just behind the Taubman. Have you found the fifth yet? No, it’s not “Big Lick Junction” though harkening back to Roanoke’s original name sure earns some points. There it is - also right in the middle but hiding down lower - the former N&W Railway Station that is now the O.Winston Link Museum.

Sturdy Kids P5– Keith McCurdy says that we have made things too soft for our children and that its time to trust them with “real” responsibilities.

Across party lines, voters want more information on candidates’ plans to strengthen Social Security and Medicare In the coming November elections, a key group of Virginia voters – nonretired baby boomers ages 50-64 – are driven by economic anxieties that extend well beyond the single issue of jobs, according to the results of a new series of surveys by AARP. All voters age 50+ want the candidates to explain their plans for Social Security and Medicare, which will help them deter-

mine their votes. er voters regularly worry about being 50+ Voters’ Financial Outlook: able to find a full-time job with benDissatisfied and Anxious efits. Less than one-fifth of voters age The particular pressures facing 50+ regularly worry about keeping up boomer voters in Virginia are reflect- with their mortgage or rent. These ed in a new “Anxiety Index,” which issues are more widely discussed as measures their worries on issues in- leading economic issues for voters in cluding prices rising faster the coming election. than incomes (72% worry “We know the issue of Politics somewhat or very often jobs is very important to about this), health expenses voters age 50-plus, but any (58%), not having financial security meaningful discussion of the economy in retirement (67%) and paying too and this year’s election has to include much in taxes (66%). the future of Social Security and MediBy comparison, 29% of these boom- care,” said Nancy Leamond, AARP

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> CONTINUED P2: Precinct

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Executive Vice President. “For these voters, ‘retirement security’ and ‘economic security’ are largely the same thing.” Non-retired boomer voters in Virginia are pessimistic about retirement. More than two-thirds (67%) believe they will have to delay retirement and more than half (65%) worry they won’t have enough to retire. Of the boomers surveyed, 42% don’t think they’ll ever be able to retire. A solid majority (63%) believe the recent economic > CONTINUED P2: 50+ Voters

Area First Responders Train for Worst Case Scenario

P11– A new video series helps Roanoke homeowners create their own signature lawn without harming the environment.

The proposed hotel in downtown Roanoke may look similar to the Riverplace Hampton Inn in Greenville SC.

More Details About Downtown “Garage Hotel” Emerge

P18-19– Get your children’s minds working again with our back to school game pages in this week’s issue!

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Survey Reveals Economic Issues Driving VA Voters Age 50+ in 2012 Elections

A Perfect Lawn

Children’s Pages

At William Fleming High School Tues. about ten people filtered in to review the proposed plan that would reduce the 32 precincts to 19. That was ten more than showed up at Preston Park Recreation Center the night before – no one showed as staff and Electoral Board members waited for two hours. Only two people dropped by the Jackson Park Branch Library meeting, said Chris Chittum, Planning Administrator. The three Electoral Board members were City Govt. there to talk to interested voters: Gordon Hancock, Rev. Carl Tinsley and Melvin Williams. “The 32 precincts have been in place since 1967, as best as anyone can remember,” said Williams. The five precincts outside the 11th House of Delegates would remain in the 17th district to prevent voter confusion and split precincts. Those precincts include Monterey,

The above photo, courtesy of Windsor/Aughtry Company, Inc. of the Riverplace Hampton Inn in Greenville, South Carolina provides, a sneak peek of the work the company has in mind for Roanoke. It is built on top of the Greenville city-owned parking garage. No restaurant is planned, due to space constraints, but according to Charles Reyner, Broker in Charge, the Hampton Inn & Suites slated to sit atop the Market Garage on Church Street will offer a free breakfast for the hotel guests just off of the lobby. “About one third of the rooms will have balconies. The views from that height are gorgeous,” said Reyner. The ground floor level of the Riverplace Hampton Inn is filled with the hotel’s common areas, and includes the lobby, large fitness center, board room, conference rooms, breakfast area, registration, soft seating, and all back of house func- > CONTINUED P2: Garage Hotel

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The story could have been ripped from recent national news headlines: Shots Fired On College Campus; 50 victims – several dead; police and emergency responders coming from miles around to lend assistance . But fortunately, this time, it was only a drill. Virginia Western Community College hosted a two day, multi-jurisdiction exercise for more than 350 first responders from such Photo by Beverly Amsler agencies as the U.S. DepartMembers of the Roanoke Valley Tactical Team ment of Homeland Secumove across a parking lot at Virginia Western. rity, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, and local, state, and federal law enforce- ler,” red was for “Evaluator,” and green ment groups, while 150 staff members was for “Logistics.” It was the third emergency event for played the roles of victims and bystandRoanoke Valley first responders in as ers. many months. First there The purpose was to test was the derecho in June, Emergency Training regional capabilities for then President Obama’s first responders as well as visit to Roanoke in July, education and family assistance. and now this exercise in August. Mike As the various groups gathered in the college parking lots, some wore their tac- Guzo is Roanoke’s Emergency Managetical gear. Others were dressed in yellow ment Co> CONTINUED T-shirts with the word “victim” on the ordinator. “We P2: First Responders back. An orange shirt meant “Control-

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Page 2 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 8/17/12- 8/23/12

Another cold front will approach the area Friday bringing afternoon storms. This cold front will continue to impact our weather as we head into the weekend with more showers and storms Saturday and Sunday along with cooler daytime highs, as temperatures stay in the upper 70s and low 80s.

C o m m u n i t y | N e w s | P e r s p e c t i v e

> Precinct

From page 1

Jefferson-Riverdale, Garden City, Lee-Hi and Grandin Court. that it has become increasingly difficult to get people to work Some precincts like Preston Elementary School and Preston the precincts. Each precinct requires a minimum of four workPark Recreation Center are across the street from each other. ers. As the older dedicated workers fall off the youth have not At the present ther precincts have too few registered voters and stepped in to fill the gap. “You just can’t find the people … It’s there are a fixed number of voting machines that are spread too just going to get worse,” he said. The 16-hour day requires trainthin. In the precincts with too few ing. registered votering machines sit idle. Buildings are getting scarce as A table full of laptops was manned well according to Hancock – they by city staff who were prepared to just don’t want the hassle. They still answer any questions. GIS expert haven’t found an ADA accessible Kennie Harris was instrumental in building in the Wasena precinct. assisting the Electoral Board’s efforts There is only one place that might in presenting different scenarios. pass but Hancock said it was still The maximum recommended registoo steep of a grade in his opinion. tered voters in any precinct should The DOJ would scrutinize the be no more than 5000. location of the polling places, the “The state board red flags cities number of voters in each precinct, when a precinct gets over 4000 regthe racial makeup and the distance istered voters,” said Williams. from a polling station to each voter Photo by Valerie Garner Electoral Board members Rev. in a precinct. It must be no more Ruth Bia (L) talks with Katharine Gray and City Carl Tinsley and Melvin Williams than one mile. They also look at the Planning and Electoral Board member Melvin Wildiscussed changes with Roanoke type of polling places like schools liams. NAACP Pres. Brenda Hale and and churches. It needs to be an open Councilwoman Anita Price. inviting locale for anyone with any background to come and Comments taken on a flip chart included concern that there vote. were over 4000 voters in Precinct 7 in South Roanoke where the The Electoral Board will report back to City Council in SepCrystal Spring Baptist Church was the voting location. Another tember. Should council approve the proposal in December it citizen questioned whether compressed precincts would lead to must go to the Department Of Justice by December 31, 2012. long lines and discouraged voters. Another had concerns with The first election with the compressed precincts would be the te limited number of voting machines to handle the increased gubernatorial primary in the spring of 2013. volume. Registered voters will be notified of their polling places no The precinct plan took into consideration normal bound- less than 15 days prior to any election. Citizens can contact the ary landmarks – rivers and streams, railroad tracks and streets. Registrar’s office with comments at (540)853-2281, or visit the Neighborhood organizations were taken into account in defin- office at the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building Room 109 or by ing communities of interest. Some voters will have longer trips email: registrar@roanokeva.gov. to their voting precincts while others will have shorter trips. By Valerie Garner If approved the plan will reduce polling stations resulting in Valerie.Garner@cox.net $10,000 of saving in personnel for each election. Hancock said

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The Roanoke City Electoral Board and City Registrar have announced that dates and locations for two additional drop-in sessions on the proposed plan to realign precincts in the City of Roanoke have been planned on the following dates and at the following places: • Tuesday, Aug. 14, at William Fleming High School Auditorium • Thursday, Aug. 16, at Raleigh Court Branch Library. Sessions previously announced include: • Thursday, Aug. 9, at the Jackson Park Branch Library multipurpose room;

> 50+ Voters

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downturn will force them to rely more on Social Security and Medicare. Anxiety about retirement security is a main driver for all Virginia voters 50+. Two-thirds (66%) of voters 50+ worry about prices rising faster than their incomes, and nearly half (49%) worry about having unaffordable health expenses, despite the relative security provided by Medicare. 50+ Voters and the 2012 Elections Economic anxieties among Virginia voters 50+ are leading to a general dissatisfaction with political leaders. Voters 50+ are more likely to say that their personal economic circumstances were negatively affected by political gridlock in Washington (74%) as by the economic downturn (65%). Nearly half (46%) of these voters disapprove of President Obama’s job performance, and more than eight in 10 (83%) disapprove of Congress. As of now, Virginia voters 50+ are nearly evenly divided in their presidential vote preference (45% for President Obama, 46% for Governor Romney, and 9% not sure), and they are similarly split when it comes to choosing their next U.S. Senator. The survey revealed that for Virginia 50+ voters, the U.S. Senate race is up for grabs, with 14% unsure who they will choose to be Senator. Of those surveyed, 44% say they will vote for former Senator George Allen, the Republican candidate, and 42% say they favor former Governor Tim Kaine, a Democrat. The concerns of Virginia 50+ voters highlight the importance of Social Security and Medicare as election issues. They think the next president and Congress need to strengthen Social Se-

> Garage Hotel tions, like laundry and sales offices. The hotel would use about 120 parking spaces at peak demand. The bulk of the hotel’s demand occurs at night, so it is very complimentary with the existing users and creates new revenue for the City instead of swapping revenue from one user to the next, explained Reyner. The Market Garage has 506 parking spaces according to Rob Ledger Economic Development Manager. “This agreement will allow the developer to begin their due diligence period during which formal designs will be created in detail. The development agreement will reveal much more and we’re hoping this will come together over the next few months,

> First Responders plan and prepare and exercise and train and it’s what we do. It’s why we do it.” Any incident – it’s dynamic. We can train an exercise responding to a flood, but it’s going to be different every time. With those three events if we have another dignitary come in to the Valley here we’ll be better prepared because we’ve just gone through it and worked through that. So, the plan is as good as the paper it’s on . . . getting out and exercising only makes us stronger and better prepared.” He says organizers have been planning the event for about 11 months. Josh Meyer, Coordinator for Marketing & Strategic Communications at Virginia Western, says the planning went back even further than that with a tabletop exercise where first responders talked through a scenario. They have now put that talk into practice. The event began with shots being fired as members of a domestic terrorist group took hostages while trying to rob a cashier in one of the buildings. One “suspect” was arrested in a parking lot, while four others were “neutralized.” Emergency officials held press conferences to take questions and update the media. Others manned a family assistance center, providing information to “victims’ families.” Mary James from Roanoke, an employee of Brandon Oaks Retirement Community was one of the “victims.” She was shot in the

• Monday, Aug. 13, at Preston Park Reccreation Center; and • Monday, Aug. 20, in Room 159 of the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building. All sessions will be held beginning at 4 p.m., and will give individuals and groups the opportunity to review the plan and ask questions of the Electoral Board and the City Registrar. All citizens of the City of Roanoke are welcome to attend For more information, please contact the City Registrar, Lavern Shepherd, at 853-1037 or by email at lavern.shepherd@ roanokeva.gov.

From page 1 curity (92%) and Medicare (91%). They also overwhelmingly (92%) think that these issues are too big for either party to fix alone and require Republicans and Democrats to come together. Voters 50+ in Virginia are looking to the candidates for more information on these key issues. These voters overwhelmingly think the candidates have not done a good job of explaining their plans on Social Security (68%) and Medicare (64%). Moving forward, a large majority of these voters – across party lines – says that getting more information on the candidates’ plans on Social Security (68%) and Medicare (67%) will help them determine their vote on Election Day. “The message from voters 50+ is clear,” added LeaMond. “In a razor-tight election, candidates have a major opportunity to reach key voters by speaking about their plans on Social Security and Medicare – and they are making a huge gamble if they ignore them.” Earlier this year, AARP launched “You’ve Earned Say,” a national conversation to ensure that Americans have a say in the future of Social Security and Medicare. To date, more than 2.1 million Americans have engaged with You’ve Earned a Say to share their thoughts about how best to protect and strengthen health and retirement security for today’s seniors and future generations. The community conversation on Medicare and Social Security will be held in Roanoke on September 25th. For more information on the events visit www.aarp.org/va.

From page 1 said Economic Development Manager Rob Ledger in an e-mail. There will be some impact on parking,” said Morrill. There are still a lot of legal issues to work through when putting a private building on top of a public garage. A public hearing is scheduled for August 20 for the Company operating as South Commonwealth Partners, LLC to purchase the 11,500 square foot portion at the ground floor as well as a portion of the associated air rights above the garage for $800,000. The Roanoke Hampton Inn & Suites will have 123 rooms. By Valerie Garner Valerie.Garner@cox.net From page 1 leg. “I thought it would be a nice way to spend a day out of the office,” she said. Fellow employee Dana Newton from Smith Mountain Lake organized the volunteers from Brandon Oaks. He was wearing a yellow “victim” shirt and was shot in the shoulder. “I’m always trying to get involved at some sort of emergency response. I work with the Sheriff ’s Department a little bit down at Rocky Mount, so this is a great opportunity to make sure I facilitate and meet with some of the folks up here in the Roanoke area.” He said his volunteers were helping as a follow-up to the derecho. Brandon Oaks was without power for 2 ½ days and he says that was “a big learning curve for everybody.” Brandon Oaks employee Lucy Klein from Roanoke was another shooting victim. “I just thought it would be interesting. I have two daughters who were at Virginia Tech and I just wanted to see how the response system worked.” Hopefully such training will never be needed but it’s nice to know that area first responders have done everything they can to prepare for a worst case scenario. By Beverly Amsler info@newsroanoke.com

8/17/12- 8/23/12 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 3

TheRoanokeStar.com

Delegate Habeeb Takes Time To Weigh In on Issues

“Greater Griffith Open” Provides Time for Fun and Politics

The coveted plastic golf clubs were the grand prize at the Greater Griffith Open Thursday at Putt Putt on Peters Creek Road. Water squirt guns were other prizes in high demand by children young and old. Congressman Morgan Griffith couldn’t resist using them to take a swipe at the EPA saying, “Are you sure they’re not being outlawed? This could be a major hazard . . . ” He also said he hoped everyone had a good golf game because, “You know you didn’t do this on your own … You know somebody else built this course.” A reference to President Obama’s Roanoke remarks that have recently made national news and become political ad fodder. Griffith then told The Roanoke Star that he hoped some things would get done in the few days before the election when Congress is in session. He was optimistic that a bill introduced by Rep Pete Olson (R-TX) would pass with bipartisan support. The bill allows power companies to comply with federal orders to maintain grid reliability during a power emergency without facing lawsuits or penalties for violating potentially conflicting federal environmental laws. Griffith said that basically means, “if you are ordered by one federal agency to do something you can’t get in trouble for violating another set of rules.” Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash) introduced another bill Griffith thinks will pass. That bill streamlines licensing for small hydropower projects that generate less than 10 megawatts of electricity. That unburdens the smaller hydro electric projects while keeping more stringent regulations on the larger projects. He couldn’t recall any “no” votes on the bill in committee. Banking regulations are the same way, said Griffith. “Maybe we need all kinds of checks and balances for the giant banks that are doing investments all over the world – then you need one set of standards. The Dodd-Frank Bill applies to everything. Applying all the same rules to local banks doesn’t make sense,” he said. Griffith didn’t think that the farm bill, tax reform or sequestration would be taken up before the November elections. (“Sequestration means that if Congress cannot reach a deal to reduce the deficit by the end of the year, a “sequester” will trigger $1.2 trillion in automatic spending cuts evenly split between defense and non-defense spending.) “Sequestration shouldn’t be political, said Griffith. “It was passed by Democrats and Republicans . . . everyone signed on to that deal.” Griffith didn’t vote for it however. Democrats are “just playing games with the Bush tax cuts too,” he said. “We shouldn’t raise taxes in a down economy – and we’re still down.” He believes that the Bush-era tax cuts should be extended again since President Obama did so in 2010 and the economy is still struggling. “Should Obama win reelection we’ll have to figure out a way to let him save face,” said Griffith. With sequestration looming on January 1 and trillion-dollar cuts coming that will be applied

Delegate Greg Habeeb has not made up his mind on whether the ban on uranium mining in Virginia should be lifted to allow for the uranium deposit in Pittsylvania County to be unearthed. It comes down to two questions said Habeeb. “Can Virginia be trusted to regulate in a way that it can be safe and two, once that’s in place does it remain economically viable? What we can’t do is say, ‘what’s the maximum regulation we can put in place that remains economically viable,’ because that would set up disaster. Those two decisions must be made purely independent.” Habeeb said he will rely on the experts to determine if it can be made safe. “What’s been interesting to me is that the two sides of the issue read the same report and site it to favor their position.” For example, one side says there are ‘steep hurdles’ and the other side calls them barriers. Hur-

Photo by Valerie Garner

Morgan Grifﬁth announces prizes with son Starke by his side.

across the board Griffith believes there can be compromise there too. “In all fairness we can cut the military some … bring 10,000 troops in Europe back and save $800 million.” He said he voted to reduce DOD spending to 2011 levels, cutting $7.6 billion from their budget. “That’s doable … Sequestration is not doable.” The Farm Bill has been stalled. There is reluctance to extend subsidies and food stamps for only one year versus five years. It gives farmers no certainty. With farmers suffering severe drought loses Griffith believes there will be compromise there too. Just when that compromise happens is the question. Keeping 26-year old children on a parent’s inPhoto by Valerie Garner surance police is making the insurance compa- Greg Habeeb with his wife Christy, his son nies money, said Griffith. They are healthy and William and his daughter Anna. parents pay more to cover the family. “We’ve got to figure out something to do about pre-existing conditions.” There are 120 bills pending on Obamacare replacement but they will have to wait until after the election. United Way of Roanoke Valley kicked off If Obama wins reelection there are things that need to be fixed like the $750 million of Medi- its Annual Campaign for 2012 on Wednescare reductions over a 10-year period. “If you day, August 15, at the Green Ridge Recredrop the amount of money paid to Medicare ation Center in Roanoke. The Campaign Kick-Off event was held to doctors so they don’t even break even then they help spread awareness about the 2012 fundwill not accept any more patients.” On social security Griffith says everything is raising campaign as well as help get the word on the table including raising the retirement age out about United Way of Roanoke Valley’s for most employees. He has some trepidation strategic Community Action Plan. Hunwhen it comes to labor intensive careers where dreds of individuals attended the event to age limitations apply. “That makes sense to me celebrate the start of this year’s Campaign. – but if we do nothing, social security will not This year’s Kick-Off included a Team survive past 2023.” Challenge in which teams participated in five events - a basketball shoot-out, a relay By Valerie Garner event, tug of war, an obstacle course and a Valerie.Garner@cox.net logic puzzle - for prizes. In addition, every-

dles mean they can be overcome,” said Habeeb. Habeeb is fairly sure there will be a bill to be considered but the big question is, “will the governor’s office be neutral, negative or positive – that is largely what will drive the conversation.” He says if there is a bill there will be some head counting and it has got a chance in the House but the Senate is another story. “That’s just the way the dynamics are.” Habeeb has pre-filed a bill to eliminate the “King’s Dominion Rule” and restore local control of school calendars to parents and local school boards. Last year it failed to get out of the Senate Education and Health committee on a 6-9 vote. He said it is sure to pass in the House in the 2013 session. “No one in the House who has voted against it has been able to enunciate a really good straight-faced argument for [the law].” It also depends on the makeup of the Senate committee. “I think there are 21 senators who would vote yes if it could get out of committee.” Senator Ralph Smith agreed. “The tourist lobby works very hard against us. I’ll support it one more time.” Habeeb is attending Governor Bob McDonnell’s K-12 Education Reform Summit on August 15th (post press time) and wasn’t sure if it would involve more charter school conversation or school choice. Habeeb said there was a significant K-12 funding investment last session but admitted that the funding formula is always a variable. “There were no massive cuts to K-12 money.” Habeeb said he was very proud of what the House focused on last year when asked if he thought more social issues would distract again this year. “I think from a political standpoint [the Republican House Caucus] let the narrative get away from us.” This year, he said, there is more of an awareness of the importance of “keeping the narrative on-point too.” The Personhood bill was only meant to address a “wrongful death” of a fetus during a criminal act. That bill passed with bipartisan support, he said. By Valerie Garner Valerie.Garner@cox.net

United Way Of Roanoke Kicks-Off 2012 Campaign

one enjoyed a free dinner catered by Kroger. Each year, United Way is able to help thousands of people in the Roanoke Valley thanks to the companies and individuals who donate to their local United Way Campaign. These funds are invested in programs that will help to grow a viable and sustainable community. Visit the United Way of Roanoke Valley website at www.uwrv.org to learn more about their Community Action Plan to Advance the Common Good in the Roanoke Valley and to learn more about Education, Income and Health priorities.

Possible Airline Strike Threatens Air Travel From Roanoke The Air Line Pilot Association says that three years of media- monitoring the negotiations between Piedmont Airlines and its tion by the National Mediation Board have not led to a contract pilots, and is hopeful that the parties will be able to come to an and that the NMB could find further mediation attempts fruit- agreement which is satisfactory to both. We expect no change in less. If released from mediation, 93 percent of eligible Piedmont Piedmont Airlines’ flights into and out of Roanoke in the near Airlines pilots have voted to strike. term.” Piedmont Airlines is the wholly PRESS RELEASE from ALPA owned subsidiary of US Airways follows: and operates US Airways Express Piedmont Airlines pilots, repreflights in the mid-Atlantic region. sented by the Air Line Pilots AsAmanda DeHaven, a spokespersociation, Int’l (ALPA), voted to son for Roanoke Regional Airport authorize their union leadership to where an Air Line Pilot Associacall for a lawful strike, should the pition strike might threaten disruplot group be released to do so. Piedtion in the mid-Atlantic region is mont Airlines is a wholly owned monitoring the situation closely, subsidiary of US Airways and opersaid: “The recent vote by the pilots ates US Airways Express flights in for Piedmont Airlines to authorize the mid-Atlantic region. their union leadership to strike is Of the eligible pilots who voted, just one step in a multi-step pro93 percent supported granting their cess required before an actual strike leadership the power to call a strike. Photo by Valerie Garner could occur. The Roanoke Regional This authorization comes after over The Roanoke Regional Airport Tower Airport Commission will be closely three years of negotiations with the

Company, including 27 months of mediation facilitated by the National Mediation Board (NMB). “Our goal is, and has been over the past three years, a fair contact that recognizes our value to this company and to the US Airways network,” said Capt. Bruce Freedman, chairman of the Piedmont unit of ALPA. “This vote should send a clear message to Piedmont and US Airways managements that this pilot group is committed to obtaining this contract and will take whatever legal steps necessary to do so.” If the NMB concludes that further mediated negotiations are unlikely to result in a contract, it could result in a release from mediation, triggering a 30-day cooling-off period, after which a legal strike could take place. This strong vote of support has authorized Piedmont leadership to call for a legal strike, as deemed appropriate, once that should occur. Founded in 1931, ALPA is the world’s largest pilot union, representing more than 53,000 pilots at 37 airlines in the United States and Canada, including nearly 400 pilots at Piedmont Airlines. Visit the ALPA website at www.alpa.org. By Valerie Garner Valerie.Garner@cox.net

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Page 4 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 8/17/12- 8/23/12

It’s Not Just About Winning . . .

he London Olympics are over and we they are certainly winners in their own right. can be grateful that all has gone well. Every participant devoted a substantial portion There were no major incidents, thank of their young lives to achieving this remarkable goodness. We have seen amazing feats of beach goal. They have earned it, but with the exception volleyball, swimming, track and field, and count- of a handful, none will be remembered by most less other sports, some of which I never knew of us. A very small number will receive endorseexisted. One thing is true for all of the ments and contracts that will pay for participants: They are the best of the best a fraction of the cost it took them to and they got to the Olympics because of become winners. That said, nothing three things. should ever diminish the sense of perFirst of all, an unbelievable natural talsonal triumph of having been an Olyment for their sport; second, a nation that pian, medalist or not. supported them, and, finally the most What about those who returned to important–years and years of discipline, their native country with nothing more drive, and desire. It’s about this last piece than the memory of having gotten to the that I am most interested. London Olympics? To have particiHayden Hollingsworth There were 10,960 participants pated is a tremendous accomplishfrom 205 countries. There are 302 ment and one can hope that each felt events with three medals; that turns out to be 906 they gave it their all; certainly, the years before winners, be they individuals or teams. Eighty- have trained them to expect nothing less of themfive nations won at least one medal and seven for selves than that. The banished badminton teams the first time. That’s more than one-third of the cannot have even that satisfaction. We can hope countries. About two-thirds of the nations went they were a rare exception. home with nothing more than the pride of havIt would be an interesting sociological study ing represented their country on the world’s larg- in a quarter of a century to interview some those est athletic stage; that’s no small achievement and who participated in London, medalists and non-

medalists alike. How had their lives been changed since returning to a more normal life? I have heard Olympic swimmers comment after their final victory they would never get in a pool again. Would they feel the mammoth sacrifices they had made in their youth had paid dividends? Had it robbed them of a different life, of different relationships that might have been more rewarding had they not be so focused on the Olympic gold? We are hearing more about athletes who, in their later years, find the short time of the highest level of competition extracted a price they had not anticipated. I hope that’s not true for the Olympians. One thing is certain: They will all have the chance to take the drive, discipline, and desire that led them to London and redirect it in another direction. I wish them all the luck in a future beyond physical competition. The image of the 2012 Olympics that will remain fixed in my mind is not one of victory but agony. Morgan Uceny of the United States in the finals of the women’s 1500 meter race will leave a lasting picture. At the beginning of the final lap, still in contention, she tripped and fell, just as she

The Preacher’s Corner by Barkley Thompson It was the Tuesday after Friday’s windstorm—a “derecho,” we are told—and I had just boarded the elevator at Lewis-Gale Hospital. It was crowded, and my vertical traveling companions were a representative cross-section of our fair city, people of varying races, backgrounds, and states of health. I always feel awkward on crowded elevators, and this time I decided to make conversation. Given the circumstances across the valley following the

devastating windstorm, I asked vocally, “Ya’ll got power?” It turns out that, storm or no, when a priest poses such a question on a crowded elevator, people receive it in many different ways. Clearly, a couple of folks took my inquiry to be about the progress of AEP work crews in their neighborhood. But others thought I’d asked, out of the blue, a deeply spiritual or existential question. Their circumstances when they boarded the

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had done in the finals of the world championship last year. She knelt on the track, bleeding from the fall, the runners disappearing toward the goal she would not achieve. And she wept inconsolably. Rules do not allow anyone to aid a runner, but she was no longer running. I suspect that millions watching wanted to reach out and comfort her. She was not a loser although her sense of failure will hurt intensely. I hope that she will find life beyond that dismal moment to be fulfilling and rewarding. The real lesson from London is that rare is the person who can achieve what the athletes did but we should take heart that with drive, discipline, and desire each of us can move beyond what we might expect of ourselves. To do less is to cheat our world and what we might offer to it. A final thought: If only the nations could get along as well as the Olympians then what a happier planet this would be! Contact Hayden at jhayden2003@cox.net

Got Power?

elevator were many: Some were ill; some were grieving; some were in shock. And the priest had just asked them, “Yes, but do you have power?” Armando Maggi, a professor at The University of Chicago (my alma mater), teaches a class entitled “Preserving the Spell.”[i] Professor Maggi begins the class by showing his students a clip from the opening scene of Walt Disney’s 1938 film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The movie begins with the evil witch in her castle asking her magic mirror who is the fairest of all. It then cuts to Snow White in her scullery maid’s smock, singing as little cartoon birds gather round her. When Professor Maggi turns off the DVD, his students giggle at the silliness they’ve just seen. It is the reaction their professor hopes for. Seventy-five years ago when the film was first released, dismissive laughter would not have been the audience’s reaction, Maggi says. But now, fairy tales lack magic. We’re no longer satisfied with them, which is why we desperately attempt to retell them in new and compelling ways. (Indeed, Snow White has been remade on the big screen twice this year alone, once as a comedy and again as a dark and somber action film.) Stories that once enchanted us, gave us hope, and offered windows into something different and new have exhausted their ability to move us. The old stories have lost their power. The same week I read about Dr. Maggi’s course, TIME Magazine published a story entitled, “The Greatest American Antihero.”[ii] The story tips its hat to today’s top-rated TV dramas—shows like Mad Men and Breaking Bad—but it also points out the disturbing nature of our adulation for their main characters. Don Draper in Mad Men is a talented and suave adman, but he’s also a philanderer who will bury the good work of his staff in order to further his own jet-set career. Walter White in Breaking Bad is a high school chemistry teacher who turns into a crystal meth drug lord, eventually killing anyone who stands in his way. The heroes in these shows are antiheroes, and—as the title “Breaking Bad” conveys—they succeed by drifting from morality to amorality to immorality, and they rise to dizzying heights while maintaining a veneer of goodness and polish. And people love to watch them. As is so often the case, television mirrors to us what we demonstrate again and again in our real lives, with the kind of models we raise up in politics, sports, entertainment, and business. We seek out antiheroes, I believe, because we’ve given up our sense of the heroic. Snow White, with her message that purity and love can overcome malevolent darkness, makes us laugh. You see, we need the power of goodness and light, but we

no longer believe in it. We’ve grown cynical, and so we give our admiration—indeed, our hearts—to antiheroes who have learned to use shadow to make their way, to succeed, and to conquer. Rather than recoiling at the way they compromise goodness for power, we credit their ingenuity and endurance. First century Palestine was not so different. Again and again, people’s expectations had been dashed. God’s prophets had been struck down so often that their messages of compassion and grace were laughed at. Grass-roots heroes had emerged who could not deliver on their promises. And so antiheroes like King Herod and his kin, whose royal claims were tenuous and predicated in equal measure on collusion with the Roman Empire and a brutal and heavy hand, who drew strength from darkness, rose to dizzying heights. What a stark choice in whom the yearning powerless could place their hope: a laughing stock or a polished monster. Do you see, then, why in the Gospels the masses flock to Jesus? Do you see why they’ll cross sea or desert just to touch his cloak? He is different from everything else they’ve experienced or heard about. He is no fairy tale wrapped in fantasy. He is real. His cloak is spattered with the same mud as theirs. He bears the same sores on his feet from walking miles of dusty road. But in love he is uncompromising. He will not succumb to cynicism, and he will not bend to the world. He is the light which darkness cannot smother, and in his light there is power. If only the least, the lonely and the lost can cast their eyes upon him; if only they can touch the fringe of his cloak; they know they’ll have power, too. They’ll find true healing and hope and joy. They’ll discover light that pierces darkness, and they’ll carry that light with them. It was true then, and it is true now. Perhaps the old fairy tales have lost their force and most goodness in the world fails and falls short. Perhaps the world lifts up antiheroes in whom we are encouraged to place a sorry and diluted hope. But it’s a false choice. There is a hero— one hero—and he is present today just as he was on the muddy banks of Galilee The God of love and light and power is manifest in Jesus the Christ. This is no fairy tale. It is the deepest reality, the really real that flows beneath the surface currents of the world. It is here—he is here— waiting for us to touch the fringe of his cloak. And so I ask you, “You got power?” St. John’s Episcopal Church is located at the corner of Jefferson Street and Elm Avenue. Summer Sunday worship is at 8 a.m., 10 a.m., and 5 p.m. Look St. John’s up on the web at www.stjohnsronaoke.org.

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The Question of Science in an Election Year

few years ago, while visiting a friend who lived and worked in a Chicago suburb, I browsed a locally-syndicated bookstore. I noted walls and walls of shelves devoted to cookery, American history, religion, and sports but could not locate the science section. I did find a small collection of glossy, coffee-table books on nature and remote places, but where were the science texts: writings by Barlow, Darwin, Gould, Margulis, McKibben, Wilson, and other naturalists and science writers? Where were the field-guides to birds, wildflowers, and rocks? Where were the conservation textbooks and scientific periodicals? I stopped a staff member who turned out to be the store owner to inquire about the science section. Focused on another project, she gave me directions gruffly to the coffeetable books. I responded, “No, I saw those. I’m looking for your bestselling books on science and nature.” “That is our science section, sir,” the manager stated plainly and then stared at me.

8/17/12- 8/23/12 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 5

Perplexed, but not meaning These questions – and numerto insult, I reacted by exclaim- ous others – touch, ultimately, ing, “You’re kidding! Nothing on our own survival and on our beyond the glossy stuff ? Noth- fulfillment as individuals and ing beyond cooking, as an animal species religion, and sports? that dominates the Don’t your patrons like planet presently with science?” The manager its ravenous appetite responded curtly, “If for natural resources. you were a regular cusAs voters, we have a tomer, I might be international responsibilested in your opinion.” ity to know about the She turned her back, basics of science in walked away, and left society. me standing in the H. Bruce Rinker, PhD E.O. Wilson and aisle with my lower jaw others have argued on the floor. Shame on both of for decades that we humans us for our dismissive and inju- seem hard-wired for religion, dicious comments. but not for science. In other Nonetheless, this encoun- words, we may have a “god ter taught me a lesson about gene” but don’t seem to have a “middle America.” I’m not an similar “science gene” to help us ivory tower academic nor a understand natural phenommulti-syllabic science snob, ena. The ubiquity and durabilbut I do think it essential for ity of religious beliefs suggests “middle America,” especially a propensity toward the supervoting “middle America” in the natural. 21st century, to know a thing or We can see this working two about science. What about throughout our history as a human-accelerated climate late-comer species. What causes change? What about human- thunder and lightning? God (or caused species extinction? gods). What causes earthquakes What about human overpopu- and volcanic eruptions? God lation? What do responsible cit- (or gods). What causes leprosy izens know about these issues? and schizophrenia? God (or

gods). Not electronic discharge in the upper atmosphere, not plate tectonics, not pathogens or brain chemistry: God (or gods). That “god gene,” if it exists, may have constituted a kind of social glue still working today to unify our cultural order under some kind of ubiquitous pattern selection. Since microbiology or geology, or science in general, is a relatively new field of study, and humankind has been wondering about thunder and earthquakes for millennia, it seems logical that a scientific perspective has not had time to become embedded in our genetic fabric; and the latter – perhaps tucked into our childlike awe in the presence of nature – is part of our cloth as an animal species. Why is all this important? Here in the United States, we have a national election in early November with all sorts of local, regional, and countrywide issues to be decided by the electorate. Included in the discussion are pieces of legislation “in the works” to bring creationism, climate-change denial, and other non-science perspectives into public science classrooms and

laboratories across the nation. The reasons for this nagging, ill-informed dissent – a deliberate disavowal of science despite our marvelous scientific “wins” in molecular biology, conservation, space science, medicine, and a host of other pertinent disciplines – is humanity’s easy proclivity toward those matters hard-wired into our nature. In reflection, it doesn’t surprise me that the bookstore outside Chicago was filled with volumes about cooking, religion, and sports. These subjects reflect ancient behaviors in the human saga. Now, however, we require another set of approaches to complement these old ways and to help us survive

in the 21st century with our staggering population of 7.1 billion people: the scientific enterprise. Let’s elect representatives who can deliberate intelligently about the natural world and move us away from the nonscience rubbish of politicians and other community “leaders” who know not a thing at all about the wonder and value of science.

H. Bruce Rinker, Ph.D. Director of Scientific Advancement and Development Biodiversity Research Institute bruce.rinker@briloon.org

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We Need a Few More Sturdy Kids

hat has happened no, these things are not that to all of the sturdy dangerous and our kids are kids? You know not that fragile, we just think the ones. They are not cocky they are. We are a big part of or arrogant but have this sense the problem. We have allowed of “I bet I can do that” or “I can ourselves to be convinced figure that out.” The sturdy kids that dangerous (code word have an intense desire for in- for adventurous and usually fun) things should be dependence and can’t avoided at all cost. wait to get their first This has been a repocketknife, BB gun, ally slippery slope that .22 rifle, or driver’s lihas led to thinking cense. that our kids are even They often are lookincapable of cooking ing for ways to earn a meal or doing launsome money before dry. No wonder it is they are out of elcommon today to see ementary school by doing odd jobs for the Keith McCurdy 16 year olds afraid to get their driver’s neighbors. They are the kids that want to be out- license. We live in the genside and enjoy being dirty for eration of the bubble-wrapped most of the day catching frogs, kid. One thing that is greatly worms, and snakes. They are the teenagers that helped settle lacking is self-confidence. Tothe West and lied about their day’s child has traded that for age to defend their country in arrogance and false bravado. We have a lot of kids that talk both World Wars. They are the young adults big but lack substance. We that knew they could make have to be careful though on a place for themselves in the how we deal with this topic. world and demonstrated a I heard recently on the radio fierce desire for faith in their that the way we increase our life and knew that pursuing child’s self-confidence is by God boldly was the only way . listening to them and giving . . Where are these kids today? them praise. While that sounds good I’ll bet many of us saw our grandparents like this. Un- and both are good things, the fortunately this type of kid notion that this is the path to is harder to find . . . and we self-confidence in our children are paying the price. As our is just more psycho-babble. children’s sturdiness has been While both are important, eroded, the level of anxiety and I would assert that neither depression in their lives has in- works directly on the development of confidence. We long creased dramatically. Now some who just read ago bought into false logic that that paragraph are saying, “a giving continual praise to our pocketknife, a BB gun, a .22 children somehow aids in their rifle……is he nuts”? Actually healthy development which

culminated in the “everybody gets a trophy for just showing up” cause of today. Even the kids know that is silly. Self-confidence by definition cannot come from an outside source. It is an internal process based not on what another thinks of you, but what you assess about yourself. The question is not how do we increase our child’s self-confidence but how do we set the stage for them to develop it. Take a look at our grandparents’ generation. What you see are kids that were required both by life and parents to do more. I don’t mean as punishment, we just expected more of kids in their generation. When we require more of kids, they acquire skill or competence. It was not uncommon by the age of 10 for kids in the early 1900’s and before to know how to cook, hunt, pluck a chicken, start a fire, and on and on. Today when we require our children to be functional and learn to navigate as many different aspects of life as possible, they acquire skill. This is not because all of these things are necessary in these modern times, but because they are beneficial. Before long they have multiple skills and begin to see themselves as competent. As this competence and sense of mastery builds with the development of more skills across a broader arena of life, children begin to have an attitude about themselves. They start believing that “I can do that” or “I bet I can figure that out.” That is self-confidence

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and it is not based on what another has told them . . . it is ingrained. When you see these children today, they stand out. They are comfortable in their own skin and seek out new and usually adventurous (“dangerous”) things. We need more of these sturdy kids. It is time to take off the bubble wrap. Contact Keith at psycyou@msn.com

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his is a thing I’ve never been able to do: take the day in its full measure. The day’s business – its proper business – usually takes me by surprise. I woke up the other day. I wasn’t scheduled at the hospital, so, spiritually, I assumed I had the day off. Sabrina was at work; I was alone in the house with only my list of chores, my `business of the day.’ Sabrina came home unexpectedly and told me a woman had called her about adopting Felicia, our foster Siamese cat. The woman arrived; we all walked down to Felicia’s room. The woman told us how empty, how lonely her house had been since she had to put her seventeen-year-old Siamese to sleep. I suspected she was telling us about her heart, as well as her house. The woman took one look at Felicia and misted. Whispering, “She’s so beautiful,” she gathered up Felicia, and Felicia, immediately content, fell asleep in her arms. Love at first sight. For each, a new friend; an intimacy instantly struck; companionship for her lonely `house.’ I was permitted to participate in this moment, which proved to be – as you might guess – far more spiritual than anything on my chore list. The next day, I’m at work. Now a solid day’s accomplishments might include putting in a chest tube, saving a patient

Perspective

The Business of The Day in cardiac arrest, something dramatic, satisfying; gratitude from the patient, thanksgiving from me. Instead, at the end of the day, the high point involved a man with diarrhea and weight-loss for two months and constant abdominal pain for one month. I did all the tests and poof! Big diagnosis, right? Nope. CAT scans and all, I never found a thing. So I sat and talked with the frightened man and wife. I listened to their fears, but had no answers. I referred him on to a specialist who can unravel this mystery. The wife touched my arm in leaving; the husband shook my hand warmly and told me I’m a great doc, and left with precisely the same problem he came in with. I realized, incredibly, they were pleased with me, that they hold our encounter as uncommon and unique… and I had changed nothing! That meeting had been the business of the day somehow, but I didn’t understand much about it. The next day, there was Miss Nora. Again. She’s got the cancer; it’s spread to her bones. Surgeons relieved her of her malignancy-encrusted left lower leg some months ago. I’ve seen her twice since then. She’s been having this pain in her left hip. She knows what it means. She comes in on a wheel chair and roams the hall with half-wild eyes while waiting

to be seen. So terrified is she of the disease that reduces her, she cannot stay still. Her hair is wispy and thinned from her treatments, ignored and untended. That which remains is disheveled with that carelessness of appearance, that distraction which horror brings. Over her last two visits, she began to see me through her veil of fear. She put a name to my face. Not an anonymous ER doc, but Dr. Garvin. She’s anxious. Can’t sleep. Can’t eat. Her family can’t do anything with her; they’re worried sick. I tell them she has an enemy inside and it frightens her in a way we’ve never been frightened. For sixty years she’s had two legs; never gave them a second thought. Now she has but one, and it’s hurting… I talked to her, gave her some medicine to relax, set her up with some counseling. Then she smiled at me. First time. I hugged her. She went home. But the other day she was back in the ER. Terrible night; pain all over. I saw her name on the patient board. I should have just gone in to see her. Had I done that, I would have been on top of the business. But it was so busy that day, and one of my partners beat me to it. I should have grabbed up her chart out of order, gone in and just hugged her. You know what I would have said to her? Nothing. There’s nothing I can say. So I would have hugged her. Why? Because a hug says there’s nothing I can do- and nothing I can say that will fix

you. A hug says I feel so awful that this is true. I can’t do anything about the problem in Miss Nora’s body, but how about her soul? Maybe I would have been given the words she needed to hear. I mean you are supposed to be a healer aren’t you, Garvin? And when you can’t heal, you’re supposed to what? Comfort? Wasn’t that the oath you took? I would have asked her if she’d been praying. It’s said you’ll find no atheists in foxholes. The same is true of hospices. She might have answered, `I pray all the time.’ There’s the problem. Prayer’s has two parts: you talk; then, you listen. I know I get worried about a thing and pray without ceasing to the point that God can’t squeeze an answer in sideways. Too much prayer can be a sign of weakening faith. We keep talking because we don’t quite believe. Maybe she would have confessed – I’ve heard it many times before – that she was being punished by the cancer for her sins of early life. So you’ve sinned. So what? The Creator not only permits U-turns; He counts on them. Yeah, that’s what I would have told her, if I had any talent at all for figuring out the business of the day . . . Look for Lucky’s books locally and on-line: The Oath of Hippocrates; The Cotillian; A Journey Long Delayed. Contact Lucky Garvin at info@theroanokestar.com

Lucky Garvin Publishes New Book: “Campfire Tales” Why Lucky Garvin writes is captured here:

L’ENVOI So endeth this set of stories, but there will be more, if not by my pen, then another’s. Any more than I believe in coincidences, I don’t believe that stories – those that happen to us or to others – are a meaningless series of events presented to us in twenty-four hour segments. I think the drama we call life is much more compelling, far more dramatic, infinitely more consequential and far-reaching than that. Life is re-iterative; every human existence is a concourse created by many streams. To graduate life with honors is, like golf, to have played the game with dedication, to try our best to become more today than we were yesterday. There’s no award for ‘winning’ the game; that cannot be done, and has never been the point. A final understanding of the infinite tangle of God’s mind can never be. The ultimate of happiness is to be in love with what we do. The ultimate goal is for each of us is to find our purpose for being, for there is a pur-

pose; there always has been. This, above all other things must be: we need be about our proper work; to pursue the life we were set on earth to fulfill. From this, all good things come; beyond this, all else is superfluous narrative. Most of all, I record these events as a bequest for my children and grandchildren, and such others as chose to read. Here I record my successes and failures, conceits and wrong-turnings. It is intended, though, not merely as my own chronicle, but as a map for the troublesome times which surely lie ahead of them. Someday, they may come to a hard place in the road, perhaps one I too have encountered. Maybe they’ll remember my thoughts, my mapping, and the right direction will become clear. In short, I want my kids to be wiser for my experiences; and to know who I am/was: Don Quixote tilting at windmills; except, they’re not windmills… God grant me an amiable biographer.

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A Sweet Ending To A Wild Storm

he Shannon house- upon the luscious Concord hold was more fortu- grapes to provide juice for jars nate than many when of jelly, sparkling like red wine the derecho pummeled the Ro- in the sunlight. anoke Valley recently. We did Sometimes feedback from not lose electric powthe recipients is a real er, although we went blessing. A friend without telephone, told me her son did television and internot like grape jelly net for several days. – refused it on his The most damage we peanut butter sandsuffered was the result wiches. However, of strong winds that he tasted the home broke our grape armade jelly and debor and uprooted our clared it a favorite! seckel pear tree, the (He received anlast survivor of sevother jar as a graduMary Jo Shannon eral dwarf fruit trees ation gift.) On anHarry planted shortly other occasion, a after we bought our home 52 shut-in’s daughter told me as years ago. her mother lay dying, she asked Harry did not prune the if there was any more grape grapevines this spring – an- jelly left. What a profound joy other of those tasks that get ne- to know my jelly satisfied her glected when age creeps up on dying wish. you and saps your energy. The Like most other vegetation vines went wild and jumped this unusual season, the grapes to the nearby pear tree, encap- ripened a full two weeks early. sulating it with a tough net of They have benefitted from the wiry stems and broad leaves. hot weather – sweeter and richSoon clusters of green grapes er in color. I pick them quickly dangled from the limbs of the and carefully, before the yellow tree. jackets suck the nectar from The wild wind whipped the purple globes leaving dark, across the hill, caught the top- dried carcasses in their place. heavy tree and pulled it to Tonight I will extract the the ground. Still connected juice and follow through with to the grape arbor, the vines my precise directions for makwrenched the arbor and broke ing perfect jelly. I wonder how it in two. The following morn- someone developed such exing we saw the damage – a piti- acting directions – exactly ful heap of destruction. But, seven cups of sugar, exactly five oh, the beautiful green grapes, cups of juice, boil exactly one larger than in previous years! minute. But if you follow the And easy to reach, supported directions exactly, it works and by the fallen tree. the consistency of the jelly is Harry agreed to postpone exactly right. cleanup until after they ripSoon the damage done by the ened. He knows how much I storm will be cleaned up and look forward to making grape the vines cut back, hopefully jelly each year. Although we to survive and provide more consume little of it ourselves, grapes next year. If not, I’m sure it makes lovely gifts. I enjoy the Lord who provided the gargiving something I have made den and the grapes will surely – it’s more personal, like giv- provide some other way for me ing a part of me. When we to share with those I love. grew a garden, my signature gift was a jar of red, white and green chow-chow. But we have not planted a garden for sevContact Mary Jo at eral years, and I have depended maryjoshannon@ymail.com

Still Hope For Mismanaged Public Schools?

ccording to the US in 2009-2010 while Utah spent Census Bureau, more $6,064. The HS graduation rates than $593 Billion in DC and Utah are comparable was received by public but per pupil spending schools for elementary in DC is roughly triple and secondary educathe spending in Utah. tion for the 2009-2010 Obviously, money school year. Sources of spent is not a good inthis capital were feddicator of quality edueral government 12.5%, cation. Thus, we must states 43.5% and local look beyond spending 44%. Spending of about to determine why pupils $602 Billion exceeded in US public schools Dick Baynton receipts by almost $9 vary in learning and Billion. knowledge retention Spending in our public el- from state to state. ementary and secondary schools Some of the reasons for the averages $10,615 per pupil, and malaise in many of the schools varies widely by state. Washing- are that some children come ton DC spent $18,087 per pupil from homes and environments where support and educational motivation are lacking. Low self esteem and lack of ambition also may be inherent in some schoolDid you Know age youths. Other possible sources of learning impairment may be schoolteachers and administrators. Over time, control shifts to the unions when school boards and parents become hobbled with work rules, healthcare and retirement benefits. Many teachers become so absorbed in union activities that their professional At Oakey’s, when you speak with someone about prearranging funeral plans, you are speaking outlook is modified to pretense. with an Oakey’s employee who lives and works in the Roanoke Valley. This is a person who Classroom focus is often diverhas ties to the community and understands your needs. Planning ahead frees your family from sity, ecology and harmony, remaking tough decisions at a difficult time. It’s nice to know that at Oakey’s, you are planning placing studies about reading, geography, history, mathematics with a professional, not a third party salesperson. and science. Note that between 1989 and 2011, the NEA and the Oakey’s has been here for over 100 years because AFT gave almost $60 Million to we are dedicated to the families we serve. the Democratic Party, helping to shape the trajectory of our public school policies. In addition to the tightening of work rules, abuses have been reported in many school systems. In New York City for example, 97 tenured teachers and employees have been charged with sexual misconduct over the past five years by the Department of Education. In nearly every case, Sammy G. Oakey, PreSident • www.OakeyS.cOm • 982-2100 the offending teacher received rOanOke, nOrth, VintOn, SOuth and eaSt chaPelS suspension and/or a fine through union mandated arbitration, permitting the teacher to return to

Is the pre-planning director you are working with local?

the classroom to continue trolling for vulnerable youths on whom they can impose their deviant desires. New York Mayor Bloomberg planned to close 24 of the worst performing schools where 3,600 teachers, principals and administrators held sway. The United Federation of Teachers threatened litigation to halt the closings so the conflict was settled by arbitration – in favor of the unions. About 30,000 pupils will continue getting sub par educations. There are hopeful signs. More than 100 Charter schools that outperform public schools have been opened over the past several years in NYC. Charters are supervised by non-government independent boards and are free of union work rules. About 67,000 kids applied for 15,000 openings in NYC Charter schools this spring. In Michigan, the cities of Muskegon Heights and Highland Park have turned their schools over to private Charter School operators to save money and improve student achievement. In a victory for students, a California judge ruled that parents could take over Desert Trails Elementary School in Adelanto, CA by pulling ‘the parent trigger’. This school has been failing for the past six years. Although school administrators had rejected their past input, parents are now in charge of soliciting proposals by charter school operators. Surveys show that many nations of the world produce better educational achievement than the USA. The future success of education for our children is to wrest control from the unions, assure full participation by parents, create balanced budgets, concentrate on teaching and learning and establish performance measurements for teachers and administrators. Remember this axiom: What can’t be measured can’t be managed. Contact Dick at info@theroanokestar.com

8/17/12- 8/23/12 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 7

TheRoanokeStar.com

Food Bank Recognizes Project 360 Partners in Fight Against Hunger

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The war against hunger is not over in southwestern Virginia, far from it said Pamela Irvine, the president and CEO for Feeding America Southwest Virginia. Irvine made those remarks recently as Feeding America (formerly the Second Harvest Food Bank, founded in 1981) recognized local corporations that have gone above and beyond over the past year, supplying non-perishable foods and manpower to the Salem distribution warehouse, which coordinates its efforts with satellite locations in Southside and Abingdon. It also serves the Alleghany Highlands and the New River Valley. Thirteen members of Project 360 were cited with awards and gratitude, for work in four critical areas: providing volunteers to work at the food bank warehouse, a minimum $10,000 donation, food drives/donations and advocacy for the food bank’s mission. Irvine noted that corporations participating in the Project 360 program have reported increased employee morale. Among the local companies hailed as Project 360 partners were Kroger, Food Lion, United Health Care, Advance Auto, General Electric, SunTrust Bank, Walmart and Wells Fargo. “Once people understood the critical need for hunger relief efforts in Southwest Virginia and after they volunteered for a few hours at the food bank …they often wanted to do more,” said Irvine. The hope now is that the original Project 360 group will serve as an example to other corporations and businesses, encouraging more involvement from them. Brian Bowen, district manager for Food Lion, said the grocer’s involvement was all about “helping local families put food on the table.” Food Lion locally has donated almost 500,000 pounds of food over the past few years. George Belanger, who works as a manager in the controls division at the General Electric plant in Salem, said employees there were aided by a matching donation from GE corporate. The plant also sponsors a Christmas basket food program and has collaborated with Second Harvest/Feeding America on that since 1981. Last year the Christmas program purchased and distributed 46,000 pounds of food. “It’s been a real interesting partnership – the program is so important to us,” said Belanger. He would like to see other local businesses get more involved: “knowing that there is that many people in our community [that need help]…and it all stays local. There are so many people that need [help].” The 50-year-old GE Christmas program – names of the needy come from the League of Older Americans and Roanoke Valley Social Services – is “a real eye-opener,” according to Be-

Photo by Gene Marrano

Pamela Irvine addresses Project 360 partners.

Photo by Gene Marrano

Project 360 partners recognized for their generosity over the past year.

langer. “We’re already in the third generation of helping and volunteerism.” Irvine has been with the Food Bank for 31 years. About 500 companies are involved with Feeding America Southwest Virginia (faswva.org) now, but not at the Project 360 level. “We needed an opportunity to get them engaged in all four aspects of what it really takes to solve hunger in our community,” said Irvine. Being involved includes advocacy during Hunger Awareness Month, which takes place in September. Orange ribbons are encouraged to spread the message about hunger then. Twenty Six counties and 10 cities that are mostly rural in the region often struggle with hunger issues, according to Irvine. Who is going hungry has changed somewhat – seniors and the disabled often rely on the food bank because Meeting every Monday they don’t have enough funds elsewhere to purchase food; 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM the unemployed and underBeginning Monday Sept 10th employed ranks that have Thru Tuesday Nov 13th swelled in recent years has Participants will learn valuable information about health also led new people to the promotion, how to recognize early signs of illness and diseases, food bank for the first time. and where to find helpful resources for health care and health information. “That individual [seeking as sistance] could have worked Participants will also learn how use that information to promote for many years and is now their own health and wellness and how to share the informastruggling to find employtion that they learn with others in their community. ment,” noted Irvine. This 10 week--30 hour course is offered for $10.00 “Its taken 31 years to build (to cover cost of printed materials and class supplies) a charitable food distribuWith attendance of at least 80% of class-time, particition and delivery system in pants will earn a Certificate of Completion as a “Community Health Promoter”. southwest Virginia,” said Ir vine, who now hopes that efPre-registration is required (see application form) by forts like Project 360 will only Friday, August 31, 2012. make that system even stronger. To Register Contact: Sabrina Law, Director of Programs The Anchor of Hope Community Center’s Anchor of Hope Community Center Community Health Promoter Program is By Gene Marrano 2302 Florida Avenue, N.W. based on the Helping Hands Community Roanoke, VA 24017 gmarrano@cox.net Health Promoter Program, for more 540.563.1444 or AOH2302@aol.com information call 540.362.5158.

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Sports

Page 8 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 8/17/12- 8/23/12

TheRoanokeStar.com

J.J. Redick Basketball Camp and Wild Bill’s Weekly Sports Roundup Charity Fundraiser Held in Roanoke

Photo by Bill Turner

Campers and coaches joined J.J. Redick Tuesday during the three-day skills and development camp at North Cross.

Photo by Bill Turner

Former Cave Spring standout, Duke University All-American and current Orlando Magic guard J.J. Redick was in Roanoke this week for his basketball camp and charity fundraiser at Ballyhack.

Orlando Magic guard J.J. Redick was back in the Roanoke Valley this week to conduct his 3-day basketball skills development camp at North Cross, followed by the Redick Charity Golf Tournament Saturday at Ballyhack Golf Course. Over 60 enthusiastic campers filled the North Cross gym on Tuesday for the first day of intense drills that focused on offensive and defensive fundamentals. “It’s an unique opportunity for a high school or middle school player to actually learn from an outstanding NBA player,” camp director and Redick’s former coach at Cave Spring, Billy Hicks, noted. Tuesday’s drills were also taught by Louisville Cardinal and former Hidden Valley guard Luke Hancock, Vanderbilt big-man and former Cave Spring center Josh Henderson, as well as other current players in the college ranks. On Saturday, Redick will be joined by other NBA players for the celebrity captain’s choice tournament at the prestigious Ballyhack. Proceeds from last year’s inaugural event raised $40,000 for both the Child Health Investment Partnership and Children’s Miracle Network. “It says a lot about Southwest Virginia and J.J.,” Children’s Miracle Network Director Erin Hildreth said Tuesday. “It takes a community effort and we’re appreciative to J.J. for what he’s done to impact our organization.”

The captivating 2012 London Olympics stretch. It just doesn’t get any better than the came to an end Sunday night, with one of the most aerodynamic sport on sand. most entertaining group of games that I can High school football opens one week from ever recall. It was great watching One Direc- tonight, and the Roanoke Valley will offer tion, Pet Shop Boys, Jessie J, Muse, great home-openers at Patrick Henry, Madness and The Spice Girls rock Cave Spring and William Fleming. the 80,000 fans at Olympic Stadium, Support your local team and head out plus several hundred million more to Friday night lights, wherever it may watching on TV. be. For the record, the headline perI’m already warming up the crystal formers were each paid one pound, ball for another season of predictions the equivalent of $ 1.50. The Union for the Wild Bill ‘Big-11”. And, just Jack clearly knows how to get value to tease you a bit, there’s an upset on Bill Turner for their money. Maybe the U.S. the horizon for week-1. should take a look at forcing this same monNow, to the mailbag where one reader was etary restriction on political ads. happy after last week’s product super-saver It’s amazing the money wasted by the can- and we get inquiries on both golf and baddidates for what amounts to nothing more minton. than the liars club. Plus, we all have to listen Dear Wild Bill: Thanks for the advice on to their propogandized pontificating hour what to do if you enjoy your food and hate to after hour. diet. I kept noshing. Look like a whale, but I’m proposing to both parties to let the my arms are getting in shape. Wild Bill column pitch your candidate. First Mr. Bill: What did you think about players come, first gets the print. If the price is right, grounding their clubs in sand traps during I’ll make your opponent look like one of the PGA Championship? (Ed/Roanoke) those disqualified badminton teams in last Great idea that should be continued. Take week’s games. a couple perpendicular practice swings beHey, you’re paying millions for people to hind your ball that creates a virtual trench flip the channel and tune you out. At least behind your lie. You’ll be able to hit a driver here you know everyone faithfully digests out of a fairway bunker, and have it teed up the column. I might even give you a couple in greenside traps. Will lower scores, speed of questions in the mailbag. up play and make cats happy. Back to the games, where the U.S. took the Dear Wild One: Even if both teams try to medal count over China 104-87, and gold fix a badminton match to lose, isn’t it inevialone 46-38. Both countries, along with sur- table that one team still has to win? (Greta/ prising Great Britain, put on quite a show. Danville) Best performances in my book? RebecI need to think about this one, Greta. By ca Soni breaking the world record in the any chance, do you play checkers . . . against 200-meter breaststroke, Missy Franklin in yourself? the 200-meter backstroke and Dana Vollmer See you next week with Wild Bill’s football in the 100-meter butterfly. Then, those three picks. In the meantime, keep your eye on combining with Allison Schmitt to beat the the shuttlecock and send your questions to: world mark in the 4×100 meter medley relay. info@newsroanoke.com Add to that the amazing run for Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh Jennings to By Bill Turner take their third straight gold in beach volinfo@theroanokestar.com leyball, winning 21 straight matches in the

By Bill Turner info@theroanokestar.com

State Record Fish Committee Confirms New State Record Freshwater Drum The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) State Record Fish Committee has certified a new state record freshwater drum caught by Nancy Cash of Martinsville. Her huge fish weighed in at 26 pounds, 8 ounces, and was 38.5 inches long. Cash caught the record fish at Buggs Island Lake on July 10th, 2012. She hooked the monster drum on a Sting Silver Spoon and battled it for 15 minutes before her fishing partner Jimmy Cannoy was able to get a net under it and bring it into the boat. The record Nancy Cash broke the Virginia record with this freshwafreshwater drum was taken to Bobcat’s ter drum from Buggs Island Lake. In doing so, she also Bait and Tackle in Clarksville where becomes the ﬁrst woman to ever set a freshwater ﬁshing VDGIF Fisheries Biologist Vic DiCen- record in the state. zo was able to confirm the species, size, and weight of the fish. Cash’s catch For a complete list of the current State Record easily surpassed the previous record of 22 pounds Freshwater Fish, visit the Department’s web site at 6 ounces caught in Kerr Reservoir in 2008. www.dgif.virginia.gov.

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8/17/12- 8/23/12 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 9

Roanoke Star High School Volleyball Previews Patriots Ready To Defend WVD Volleyball Title One Last Time With this being the last year that the Western Valley District will be in existence, the Patrick Henry volleyball team is looking to defend its district crown and make another run deep into the Group AAA state tournament this season. Returning for the Patriots, who finished second in the Northwest Region before losing in the state quarterfinals, are senior setter Caroline Brailsford (81 aces, 142 kills, 736 assists, 56 blocks and 132 digs), senior outside hitter Sarah Miller (59 aces, 314 kills, 202 digs),senior libero Morgan Robison (301 digs, 42 aces) senior middle Page Pest (50 kills, 48 blocks), senior middle Lauren Deck (78 kills, 40 blocks) and sophomore defensive specialist Haley Arnold (129 digs). New to the varsity lineup are junior outside hitter Samantha Edge, sophomore defensive specialist Sophia Tailor, sophomore opposite Rachel Miller, freshman outside hitter Abby Wolpert, freshman setter Olivia Pullin and freshman middle Bradley Smith. Head Coach Patricia Sheedy, who saw her team compile a 21-7 mark last season, sees her team’s strengths as being a returning setter, an outside hitter and libero, plus experience. While, a second outside hitter and blocking will be a weakness. The Patriots see Hidden Valley and Cave Spring as being their big matches, along with a tournament at Cave Spring with teams that made it to the state tournament in 2011. What can Patriot fans expected this season? “We have a very tough non-district schedule, but we should challenge for the district title,” noted Sheedy. Patrick Henry opens its 2012 campaign on Wednesday, Aug. 22 when they host Hidden Valley. Colonels Return Experience Under New Coach With six returning players, all seniors, off of last year’s fifth place team, the William Fleming volleyball team is hoping this will be the season that the Colonels make an upward move in the last year of the Western Valley District under new Head Coach Jack Jagodzinski. Returning for the Colonels are seniors Asia Arnold (middle hitter), Sarah Bias (outside hitter), Sadie Elliotte (setter), Martika Mann (middle hitter), Latasha Williams (outside hitter) and Renasha Williams (middle hitter). New to the varsity lineup are senior Raven Barnett (RS), junior Zahria Wade (outside hitter), sophomore Jewel Hurt (BR), senior Jasmine Cook (BR), junior Danaysia Reynolds (BR), junior Jazmun Brown (BR), junior Dani Nourse (BR) and junior Makatlyn Piedge (outside hitter). “The Lady Colonels of William Fleming have the pieces to put together a great season this year. While there is improvement to be made, it is clear that we have some good talent,” said Coach Jagodzinski. “Sadie Elliotte is returning as setter, while Latasha Williams looks good at OH. We have quite a few girls who can both block and hit, so we will be finding the best spots for them to fit in. Sarah Bias, Jewel Hurt, and Dani Nourse have shown themselves to be our best passers, and we will be relying on them to get points started for us.” The Colonels see their strengths as the size of the front line, senior leadership and many capable hitters and blockers. While their weaknesses are finding passing from new varsity players and putting the ball down consistently. William Fleming sees its top match as being its season-opener on Monday, Aug. 20 at Salem.

What can William Fleming fans expect this season? “Look for the Lady Colonels to improve greatly throughout the season,” said Jagodzinski. Northside Volleyball Looking To Take Over Top Spot In BRD With five players returning off of last year’s second place team, the Northside Vikings volleyball team is working to take over the top spot in the Blue Ridge District this season. Returning for the Vikings, who fell to Rustburg in the Region III semifinals and finished 8-18 overall, are Kelsey Jarrett (senior, OH), Caitlyn Porterfield (senior, S), Elena West (junior, S), Kelsie Hendren (senior, OPP) and Andrea Elrod (senior, OH). New to the varsity lineup will be Taylor Price (junior, MH), Aleah Keaton (freshman, MH), Olivia Earls (junior, L), Kelsey Altizer (junior, OH), Kayla Besase (junior, OH), Carly Altizer (junior, S), Mary Grace Agner (junior, DS), Katelyn Bowden (junior, OPP). Earls, Jarrett and Porterfield will serve as the team captains this fall. When asked about Northside’s strengths, Head Coach Amy Crawford, who is starting her eighth season at the helm replied, “Jarrett and Porterfield are two strong returning leaders to the floor. Plus, this is a hard working group that is putting the team above themselves.” The Vikings will play in the James River Tournament on Saturday, Aug, 25 and will also host its annual Viking Fall Classic on Saturday, Sept. 15. Northside opens its season on Thursday, Aug. 23 at Roanoke Catholic. Roanoke Catholic Ready To Defend VISAA, Div. 3 State Volleyball Crown With nine returning players back, the goal of the Roanoke Catholic volleyball team is to continue what they started in 2011, which is defending its VISAA, Division 3 state title come this season. Donning the green and gold again this fall will be senior outside hitter Mairin Guilfoyle (289 kills, 84 aces, 257 digs), senior setter Ava Perez (562 assists, 67 aces, 121 digs), senior outside hitter Maria Barrera (127 digs, 15 aces), senior defensive specialist Anna Barrera (87 digs, 17 aces), junior right side Danielle Dorman (33 blocks, 57 kills), junior libero Anne Deer (317 digs, 34 aces), sophomore middle blocker Allison George (38 blocks, 20 aces), sophomore outside hitter Alexandra Arnold (41 blocks, 58 kills) and freshman setter Ashley Deer (46 assists, 27 digs). “Our strength this year is the large number of returning players we have that were with us last season when we won the state championship,” said second-year head coach Aaron King. “That experience should help us as we work to build our team this year.” New to the varsity team this year are senior defensive specialist Biance Herrera, along with junior middle blocker Zoe Doubles and junior outside hitter Nat LeDonne. “The coaches and players all feel that there is no reason why we shouldn’t strive to duplicate what last year’s team accomplished,” King said. “Our goal is to continue what we started in 2011.” Roanoke Catholic sees its top matches as those being with North Cross, Liberty Christian, Eastern Mennonite, Hidden Valley, Patrick Henry, Northside, Blacksburg and Westover Christian. The Celtics open their season on Tuesday, Aug. 21 when they host Westover Christian Academy.

High School Openers One Week From Tonight Friday Night Lights Are Ready For Action

Practice was intense this week at North Cross as the Raiders come off their VIC 2011 state championship team with a new roster and new conference affiliation. Treyvon McGhee, seen here Tuesday, will be a key player in the North Cross running attack for 2012. The Raiders open the season at North Carolina private school powerhouse Charlotte Latin next Friday night.

Photo by Bill Turner

Treyvon McGhee

Photo by Bill Turner

North Cross third-year head coach Stephen Alexander looks to lead the Raiders to a repeat of their 2011 championship, as North Cross moves to the Old Dominion Football Conference this season.

By Bill Turner info@theroanokestar.com

Photo by Bill Turner

A Hidden Valley player ﬁghts the August heat as high school teams continued practices this week. Openers for most area teams are set for Friday, August 24th.

Sports

Page 10 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 8/17/12- 8/23/12

TheRoanokeStar.com

Area Teams Make Statements as High School Golf Season Debuts Area high school golf opened with a bang last week as several Roanoke teams made impressive showings. The Heritage Invitation at London Downs in Forest was the inaugural event of the season, and Cave Spring wasted little time showing they look to be a top contender in the state Group AA ranks, only a year after finishing second to Western Albemarle. The Knights got outstanding play from their top-4 scorers to edge out AAA Mills Godwin by two shots to take the Heritage for the third time in four years. Cave Spring was led by brother-sister combo Drew and Meagan Board, each of whom fired even-par 72s on the tough London Downs layout. Nick Brediger followed closely with a

73, with the second Cave Spring girl player, Jessie Hart, round out the Knight’s 295-total with a 78. Salem, led by Andrew Butts’ 1-under 71, finished third as Garrett Sweeney (75), Will Chisom (75) and Austin Smith (77) kept the Spartans, the defending Heritage champions, close. The big story came in the individual showdown when Hidden Valley 14-year-old freshman Kristin Hearp cruised around London Downs with a nifty 4-under 68. James River’s Korey Watts, who won both the Roanoke Valley Golf Hall of Fame men’s and junior titles this summer, had to make a seven-foot putt on 18 to match Hearp’s 68 and force a playoff, before edging Hearp on the first playoff hole.

On Thursday, Salem rebounded to win the two-day Bob McLelland Metro Invitational at Blue Hills after an opening eighteen Wednesday at Hunting Hills. The Spartans, led by the same quartet, defeated runnerup Cave Spring by 11 shots. Lord Botetourt finished third. Watts again took the individual title with a 2-round total of 137, edging Cave Spring’s Brediger by two shots. Roanoke Valley teams competing in the Metro also included Patrick Henry, William Fleming, Glenvar, Northside, Hidden Valley and William Byrd. By Bill Turner info@theroanokestar.com Photos by Bill Turner

Hidden Valley’s Kristin Hearp plays her shot at Hunting Hills par-3 13th hole Wednesday in the Metro Invitational. Hearp ﬁred a 4-under 68 in the Heritage Invitational on Monday before losing in a one-hole playoff to Korey Watts.

Lord Botetourt’s Lyndsey Hunnell watches her putt at the par-4 11th Wednesday. Hunnell shot a 67 Thursday at Blue Hills to help the Cavaliers to a third-place ﬁnish in the Metro.

Salem’s Austin Smith shot a 2-round total of 146 to help the Spartans win the Metro Invitational.

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Cave Spring’s Nick Brediger ﬁred a ﬁnal-round 67 Thursday at Blue Hills, good for second-place in the Metro Invitational.

Patrick Henry’s Corey Hayth hits his tee shot at Blue Hills’ par-4 sixteenth hole Thursday, on his way to a ﬁnal-round 74 .

Patrick Henry’s Blake Brown watches his tee shot on the par-3 15th at Blue Hills Thursday afternoon.

RVSGT Results: Roanoke Valley Senior Golf Tour Tournament Skip Mitchell of Salem Virginia was the overall winner of the Roanoke Valley Senior Golf Tour’s tournament played on Tuesday, August 7th at the Pulaski Country Club. Mitchell, playing in Division 2 (handicaps 1318) recorded a net score of 61. Other Division 2 winners were: 2nd, Ray Hundley - 62; 3rd, Frank Lang - 63; 4th, Rich Gezymalla - 63; 5th, Gary Snyder - 64; Playing in Division 1, (handicaps 0-12), Andy Shumate of Southwest Roanoke County finished 1st Place in his division with a net

score of 65. Other Division 1 winners were: 2nd, Charles Vassar - 66; 3rd, Ken Wilburn 66; 4th, Garry Mundy - 66; 5th, Tim Lisk - 67. Terry Legg of North Roanoke County carded a net score of 62 to finish first place in Division 3 (handicaps over 18). Other Division 3 winners were: 2nd, Dale Blake - 64; 3rd, Dennis Flannagan - 65; 4th, David Hollandsworth - 65; 5th, David Ford - 65. Low Gross honors went to Jerry Snyder of Buena Vista, VA with a 73. Photos by Tommy Firebaugh

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8/17/12- 8/23/12 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 11

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VA Tech “A Lawn to Dye for” Helps Homeowners Create Signature Lawn

Democrat Andy Schmookler Will Debate Goodlatte

Imagine going home to a lush, environmentally Republican incumbent 6th district con- responsible conservative Party into a Party friendly lawn that resembles gressman Bob Goodlatte has agreed to debate which is unlike anything we’ve ever seen.” the pristine Pete Dye River his Democratic opponent Andy Schmooker. “We can’t have a political process that honCourse of Virginia Tech, Dr. Schmookler is a writer living in Shenan- ors our values as Americans of one person, home of the university’s golf doah County two miles from West Virginia one vote if money is able to buy our poli tical team. near Orkney Springs. process,” he said. Now, you can. Schmookler has been hammering GoodSchmookler summed up his view of the A new video series prolatte in recent months to debate him. It’s not partisanship in Washington by saying that if duced by Virginia Tech’s clear how many debates it is one Party’s idea College of Agriculture and Goodlatte will agree to the other Party reLife Sciences and Virginia Cooperative Extension titled but one of those might jects it even if they “A lawn to Dye for” helps be a forum in Septemhad had posed the homeowners create their ber according to Brensame idea in the own signature lawn without da Hale President of the past. “I have no inharming the environment. Shawn Askew, VCE turfgrass weed specialist and associate profes- Roanoke Chapter of the terest in working In a series of seven videos, sor in the Department of Plant Pathology, Physiology, and Weed NAACP. with that spirit.” He Virginia Tech’s head golf Science, provides tips on how to properly mow a lawn. On Thursday believes in consercoach Jay Hardwick teams Schmookler held press vative values he said owners to care for their lawns. anced education that ranges up with the university’s turfand I also believe grass experts to provide tips The new videos offer another from food and fiber produc- conferences in Lynchin liberal values. on every aspect of lawn care, way for the public to take that tion to economics to human burg, Harrisonburg and health. Students learn from Roanoke. In Roanoke from initial seeding to proper expertise home. “I think American “By making smart choices, the world’s leading agricul- City council chambers watering techniques. The vidneeds both,” he eos also show how managing you can have a championship tural scientists, who bring the he said he had just Andy Schmookler said. lawn clippings and fertilizers lawn that will be the envy of latest science and technology learned that “GoodHis reason for can help curb water pollution. your neighbors,” Hardwick into the classroom. latte has relented and agreed to debate me.” running for office has not changed since he Virginia Cooperative ExThe free videos can be said. “And you will take an found on Virginia Coop- active role in protecting our tension brings the resources No one should be able to coast to an election was interviewed in April of 2011 when he erative Extension’s Turf and environment – one stroke at of Virginia’s land-grant uni- he said – “not having had to work up a sweat.” said, “I feel that what I’m fighting for is the Schmookler said he hopes for at least three soul of America. …It is a grave crisis this versities, Virginia Tech and Garden Tips website, and are a time.” The videos cover a variety Virginia State University, to debates in Lynchburg, Roanoke and Harri- country now faces.” also available in the college’s Schmookler believes that people power can of lawn care topics, including the people of the common- sonburg. iTunes U collection. wealth. Through a system of “Our videos outline spe- the following: A statement he handed out read in part: “I still trump money power and that the DemTesting soil; on-campus specialists and have been declaring that you, Mr. Goodlatte, ocratic Party has not been willing to fight. cific ways to create and susSelecting grasses; locally based educators, it are betraying the trust of the people who “There is plenty of blame to go around,” he tain beautiful lawns without Watering; delivers education in the ar- sent you to Washington, the good people of said. straining wallets or damaging Mowing; eas of agriculture and natural Virginia’s sixth district. I believe strongly sir, the environment,” said Mike Two weeks following his press conference Lawn diseases; resources, family and conGoatley, Extension turfgrass that you have put your own ambition, and Goodlatte has not responded to dates for Insects; and sumer sciences, community specialist and professor in Weeds. viability, and 4-H youth de- your partisan interests ahead of serving the debates. Schmookler claims that Goodlatte Virginia Tech’s Department of For more lawn manage- velopment. With a network interest and values of the people of Virgin- would not agree to a televised debate as reCrop and Soil Environmental Sciences. “For example, ment strategies, visit Virginia of faculty at two universities, ia. Your policies – however well you can sell quested. Schmooker wanted at least three people often think the answer Cooperative Extension’s Turf 107 county and city offices, 11 them to your supporters – are hurting those debates throughout the large 6th district. agricultural research and Ex- same people. Further, I declare that the [Re- Goodlatte has not responded to requests to improving a lawn is to add and Garden Tips website. Nationally ranked among tension centers, and six 4-H publican] Party you so consistently rubber from The Roanoke Star for locations and more fertilizer, but more is not necessarily better. Too the top research institutions educational centers, Virginia stamp has been lying to the American people dates. Schmookler will hold a Q & A at the much fertilizer, combined of its kind, Virginia Tech’s Cooperative Extension pro- like no [other] major political party in the Downtown Library on August 18 at 2:00 p.m. with run-off from sprinklers College of Agriculture and vides solutions to the prob- history of our country.” and rain, can dump chemicals Life Sciences focuses on the lems facing Virginians today. He accused Goodlatte of being part of By Valerie Garner into watersheds and pollute science and business of liv“changing Republican J1050 Maternity Care 4x10 RSS_Layout 1 8/3/12 the 10:59 AM Page 1 Party from a good ing systems through learning, the water.” Valerie.Garner@cox.net Virginia Tech Turfgrass discovery, and engagement. Research Center is home to The college’s comprehensive some of the most cutting- curriculum gives more than edge work on new varieties of 3,100 students in a dozen grass and methods for home- academic departments a bal-

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Commentary

Page 12 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 8/17/12- 8/23/12

Tax Fairness and Reform Are Key To A Successful Economy

January 1, 2013 – just five short months of allowing it to increase to 55 percent, and from now Americans can expect a higher tax certain educational tax incentives including bill. Individuals, families, and small busi- the deduction of student loan interest. Now nesses alike, are bracing for these tax increas- it is imperative that the Senate act in order to es and asking “how can we afford to send even stop these massive tax increases that are right more of our hard earned money to the federal around the corner. government?” Nearly 13 million Americans Economic prosperity is not only going to are currently looking for work and so crush- require a halt to these devastating tax ining tax increases are the last thing we need. creases, but it demands that Congress enact This week, with my support, the House of meaningful tax reform. It is evident that our Representatives passed bipartisan legislation tax code is no longer working in a fair manner which provides certainty for American fami- for Americans. Our current tax code is chock lies and small businesses by stopping this full of exceptions, deductions, and corporate looming tax hike. Failure to act could mean loopholes that have allowed some businessthat a family of four earning $50,000 a year es and wealthy individuals to escape paying will see their taxes increase nearly $2,200 their fair share in taxes. Tax reform is needper year and the total tax increase would be ed to ensure a more equitable tax code and more than $4 trillion over the next decade. so immediately after passing legislation to Small businesses, the economic engine of our stop the impending tax increases, the House country, want to invest in their firms and hire passed legislation, similar to legislation that I new workers, but instead they are bracing for have introduced, which requires Congress to these costly tax increases which will affect address comprehensive tax reform. nearly 1 million business owners. Quite simThis week, the House of Representatives ply tax increases are the wrong prescription sent a clear message to the American people for job creation and economic growth. and our nation’s job creators. But it will rePassage of this pro-growth legislation quire immediate action by the Senate in orwhich extends the low-tax policies originally der to provide the necessary certainty that a enacted in 2001 and 2003 and then extended higher tax bill is not on the way. Anytime we again in 2010 is an important piece of the can establish fairer taxes and keep them low House Republicans’ Plan for American Job then we are assisting the national economy, 4444 PheasantIncluded Ridge Road #308, Roanoke 4438 Pheasant SW Roanokejobs 4448 Ridge Road #301, SW Roanoke Creators. inSWthis legislation are Ridge ex- Rd #405, creating andPheasant increasing opportunity 1900 Sq. ft., hardwood floors, granite, crown 3BR, HW floors, ceramic tile, lg deck overlooking Just Listed, One of two units remaining with molding, of custom lots of individual upgrades, courtyard. Reduced $20K. Only two 3BR units tensions thedrapes, current taxof brackthe country. views mountains, topacross floor with vaulted a model. Originally sold for available. Underground parking w/storage, security ceilings, hardwood floors, two bedrooms, two ets,shows the like $1,000 child tax credit, the marriage $269,000. Priced to sell at $219,900. system. $219,900 baths, master suite with walk-in closet, shows DIR: 220S to L atthat Hunting Hills Plaza.a tax increase 220S to L at Hunting Hills Plaza. penalty relief prevents - CongressmanDIR: Bob Goodlatte like a new unit, priced to sell $189,900 Follow signs. Follow signs. on millions of American couples, the estate Pat Lawson Pat Lawson Howard Packett tax at O: the776-6303 current rate of 35 percent instead C: 540-204-6024 O: 776-6303 C: 540-204-6024 O: 776-0526 C: 540-761-6568

Don’t Wind Up Like Arizona

I was traveling through your beautiful state on my way back to my house in Arizona when I read your article on the uranium debate. I was taken aback by Dr. Bodnar’s quote: “Show me the scientific evidence that supports ( the ban), we need to look at the facts and get away from being emotional.” I invite you to read the book “Yellow Dirt” by Judy Pasternak. 4438 It isPheasant filledRidge with scientific facts Pat Lawson Road #205, SW Roanoke about the dangers of uranium mining and how industry practices,Exceptional greed and government disreview and value! Best views in Howard Packett gard for the safety of miners and their families resulted in tragedycommunity! for many the flooring statesinofbaths, AriNewincarpet, 4423 Pheasant Ridge Rd and fresh paint - Shows like a new unit! zona, New Mexico and Nevada. Priced sell. $179,900 Floor, mining and The southwest has had the sad experience3rd of uranium itsto lethal effects. Your comVA genie 24014is out of the bottle it’s difficult to put it munity is wise to be cautious. Once theRoanoke, radioactive back. Pat Lawson O: 776-6303 C: 540-204-6024 - Cynthia Wirth Page, Arizona

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Goodlatte Flip Flops on Ethanol

Representative Goodlatte’s demand for a waiver to the ethanol mandate is welcome news. But he fails to mention his personal responsibility for the RFS mandate in the first place. The economy relies on distributed and dynamic information. This information is unavailable to politicians in faraway capitals. Yet, central planners believe they know what is good for us. Friedrich Hayek called it “the fatal conceit.” Created by the Goodlatte-supported 2005 Energy Bill, the RFS Mandate was intended to reduce dependence on overseas oil and make life

better for us. Seven years later, Americans now burn nearly 40% of our corn crop in our engines. Gas prices are high and food prices have skyrocketed. The program is funded, as most of our federal spending, by more borrowing from China. We don’t know if Goodlatte understands the bureaucrat’s disease of “fatal conceit,” but it is abundantly clear that he suffers from it. -Karen Kwiatkowski – Mt Jackson VA

Brokering A Better Healthcare System The Supreme Court recently affirmed that President Obama’s health reform law is indeed constitutional. Supporters of the measure have rejoiced that America may finally be on its way toward achieving universal health coverage. Unfortunately, the newly upheld law undermines one of the chief means of expanding access to affordable coverage, particularly among small businesses -- by threatening to put thousands of insurance agents out of work. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires insurance companies to devote no more than 20 percent of premium dollars to administration and profit. This “minimum medical loss ratio” may seem like a reason1907 Millstream Dr., Salem ablebedrooms, way totwo ensure Four master patients suites, threeget their money’s worth.But puts baths, formal LR and DR, large family it room with fireplace. eat-in kitchen with new at thegasjobs of insurance agents counters and flooring, new carpet and paint risk -- two tocartheir and thoughout, garage.detriment $234,500. thatMain of totheir customers. DIR: Mill Lane, R on Riverside, L on Last Kingsmill, L on Millstream year, the Department Lawson of Health Pat and Human Services O: 776-6303 C: 540-204-6024 ruled that insurers had to count commissions paid to agents as administrative costs. Insurers responded by slashing commissions. The Government Accountability Office found that commissions for many agents were cut by 50 percent. Consequently, some agents are leavingPheasant the business or downsizing, 4448 Ridge Road #305, SW Roanoke Largest unit available, layingthreeoffbedroom employees just to almost 2000 sq. ft., large great room with keep their doors open. Already, gas fireplace, sun room, large patio, formal one room, in fieat-in ve has done And dining kitchen, garage so. parking with storage, security system and much more. that number will likely grow. Listed below assessed value. $219,000. Ironically, just when many Lawson benefit from consumersPatwould O: 776-6303 C: 540-204-6024 brokers’ expert counsel on the

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healthcare law and its benefits, that same law is winnowing their ranks.Treating agents as mere overhead is a mistake. Just ask anyone who’s had to buy insurance on their own. Or ask the 75 percent of small businesses who rely on brokers -- including many who use them as de facto human resources departments. Independent agents do more than just sell insurance policies. They help consumers navigate a rapidly changing marketplace and secure the best coverage at the most affordable price. They don’t work for insurance companies but for their clients, often serving as consumer advocates when billing and claims issues arise. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners -- which represents state insurance regulators -- has called agents “essential” to a functioning, consumer-friendly marketplace. Take the case of John Walley, an Alabama-based agent. Upon meeting with an 80-year-old client, Walley discovered that she was living alone in a disheveled trailer and spending nearly a quarter of her $400 monthly income on Medicare premiums. Walley applied for Medicaid for his client, which waived her $96.40 monthly deductible. He also enrolled her in a Special Needs Plan that exempted her from paying the deductibles and copays that had kept her from seeing a doctor for 15 years. Or consider New Jersey agent Thomas Kohler, who intervened on behalf of his client in a hospital billing dispute -- and succeeded in lowering the client’s medical bill from $7,000 to $3,000. Defenders of the medical loss ratio claim that brokers won’t be needed once the health insurance exchanges mandated by the ACA are up and running in 2014. Consum-

ers will then be able to pick from a menu of health plans on a government website, they say. But shopping for health insurance is more complicated than buying a pair of shoes online. Consumers are often confused by pages of legalese describing benefits, deductibles, and provider networks. Some may be inclined to make choices based solely on price, which might not be the wisest course. More importantly, unlike a pair of shoes, a consumer will only find out if the policy “doesn’t fit” when he’s sick or injured -when it’s too late. In its own programs, the federal government has experienced how difficult it can be to expand access to insurance without agents. Consider the health law’s temporary Preexisting Condition Insurance Program, which was supposed to provide coverage to “highrisk” consumers. The law initially gave agents no role to play in attracting people to the program. Not surprisingly, very few signed up. Just 18,000 had done so by March 2011 -- less than 5 percent of the 375,000 that federal officials expected by the end of 2010. So the feds enlisted the help of agents. Immediately, enrollment climbed -- by 400 percent over the past year and 24 percent over the last few months. Lawmakers have historically recognized the importance of agents and brokers. And they must continue to do so. Otherwise, brokers will vanish from the marketplace. That would be bad news not just for the patients who depend on them as advocates -- but for the broader job market, too. -Janet Trautwein CEO National Association of Health Underwriters.

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Commentary

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Morgan Griffith Responds to Coal Mining Victory

Congressman Morgan Griffith’s offered this response after the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia handed down a decisive victory for coal miners and mining in the case National Mining Association v. Jackson:

ity guidance was unscientific and harmful to mining. I’m glad to see that it’s unlawful. Like so many other permits issued under the CWA, these conductivity requirements were reckless regulations that served only as a threat to businesses in the Ninth District. The EPA should abandon its war on coal and redirect its energies to looking at scientific data that might lead to solving real problems for people living near mines. It’s my hope that more victories like the one we had today will continue to get the EPA off our backs.”

“This is a major victory for coal miners and mining. As I’ve said in the past, and the court ruled the EPA was overstepping its statutory authority under the Clean Water Act (CWA) and the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA). The EPA’s conductiv-

Home Building Key to Recovery Letter to the Editor: As the 2012 election season heats up, presidential and congressional contenders have largely avoided any mention about housing or homeownership, even though the consensus among most economists is that there can be no long-term economic recovery until home prices stabilize and the housing market rebounds. Not all politicians have turned a blind eye to this critical issue. Virginia Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling should be commended for his leadership role in helping to pass a recent resolution by the National Lieutenant Governors Association that calls on the President and Congress to "act with a sense of urgency to address the nation's housing crisis in a meaningful and responsible manner, while avoiding any legislation or regulatory actions that will inhibit the recovery of the home building industry." Constructing 100 single-family homes creates more than 300 full-time jobs and adds millions of dollars in federal, state and local tax revenues that are essential to many cash-strapped municipalities which lack funds for vital services such as local schools, road and infrastructure maintenance, police and firefighters. Recent surveys by the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and TD Bank underscore that American voters fervently believe that owning a home remains a core value and that homeownership plays a critical role in our nation's social fabric and economic well-being. As policymakers debate how to boost the economy, they must understand that restoring housing to full health is essential to create jobs, stabilize home values, and strengthen local communities. This is a powerful message that is sure to resonate with voters here and across the nation who will cast their ballots in November.

8/17/12- 8/23/12 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 13

Our Addiction to Violence

Yesterday, NBC debuted a new television show, Stars Earn Stripes. The premise of the show is that well known celebrities---including Laila Ali, Picabo Street and Todd Palin---are paired with inactive military personnel to perform simulated military challenges. The events are physically demanding and quite dangerous, involving the use of live ammunition and very real risk. In today’s news I read that a group of Nobel Peace Prize winners have written a letter to NBC encouraging them to pull this new show because of the glorification of “war and armed violence.” Predictably, NBC has declined to honor the request of the Nobel laureates. Obviously, if corporations are willing to buy ads, there’s no incentive for network TV to make any choice other than the obvious financial one. My question is this: What does it say about us as a society when violence becomes entertainment? I recognize that our culture has been at this point for a long time, so NBC’s new TV show should come at no surprise. Just last week, a 15 year old Ohio boy collapsed after a four day Xbox mara-

thon. His game? Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, described as a “first person shooter” game. And these are just the latest examples. Simply put, our culture is willing to pay to be entertained by violence. Why are we so addicted to violence? Could it be because the outcomes are removed to us? Would our opinions of violence change if “reality TV” chose to show the victims of violence around the world: the very real victims of civil war in Syria; the broken and scarred families of Iraq and Afghanistan; the suffering of our own veterans, facing the challenges of life while also battling injuries both physical and mental. In the Gospel of Luke, we read these words of Jesus: As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes.” Can anyone hear Jesus weeping for us? - Rev Tim Harvey - Central Church of the Brethren, Roanoke

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Time for Intermodal Transfer Station to Ramp Up Dear Editor The Mayor's recent State of the City speech was well organized, well thought out, and well received. His principal theme of progress for the future was regional cooperation. I and others, who have been and are interested in and work with regional economic development projects, wholeheartedly agree. However, a highly important Regional economic development project was not mentioned and continues to languish. In my judgment, the Ironto/Elliston Norfolk/Southern Intermodal Transfer Station, to be located in the Roanoke/Montgomery County area should be at the top of every regional municipality's list. Currently, it is split funded with the Virginia Department of Transportation at 70% and Norfolk/Southern at 30%. However, under the current Governor and Secretary of Transportation, VDOT is foot-dragging on this essential Southwest Virginia project, while concentrating on U.S. 460 and other road expansions elsewhere in Southeastern Virginia. We know that money is available for Southwest Virginia because VDOT currently has $70 Million available in a reserve fund account designated for completion of our Valley View interchange on 1-581.

If the intermodal transfer complex at Front Royal is to be our example (during the last twenty-two years, 26 new businesses employing approximately 6,000 people!), all of our various local Mayors, Council Members, and County Supervisors should collectively petition VDOT, the Governor and our regional General Assembly Delegates/Senators to go to work

ASAP, free up the matching money and move this project to the front and get it done. A recent Chmura Economics report shows that in 15 occupational categories, our area has lost 4,500 jobs. -Former State Senator J. Granger MacFarlane

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If you are lucky enough to work for a company that offers a pension, you may be faced with a major decision at retirement: to roll over or not to roll over. In other words, should you take a lump sum distribution at retirement or receive a monthly check during retirement? The choice you make can affect how you live in retirement, and what you can leave your heirs. While pension plans, or defined-benefit plans, are meant to provide a certain amount of security in the form of monthly cash distributions, because retirees have no say in how pension plan money is invested, they have no opportunity to increase their monthly cash distribution. One way to exercise more control and perhaps increase the value of your pension plan distribution is to take a lump sum distribution at retirement and roll it into an IRA. An IRA offers you greater flexibility for accessing and investing the money. Assets in a rollover IRA may be invested in mutual funds, individual stocks and bonds, and other investments that align with your financial, wealth transfer and retirement goals and your investment risk tolerance. Because IRAs are tax-deferred, taxes are only paid when you take a distribution from the IRA, which allows investment earnings to grow free of tax until you take a distribution. Before rolling over your pension to an IRA, the following should be considered: 1. IRAs are not guaranteed, if you invest aggressively or inappropriately or the market fails to perform as you expect it to, you run the risk of reducing the value of your pension or perhaps outliving your assets, and 2. a rollover to an IRA from a qualified plan is protected from the claims of creditors in bankruptcy. Here are some additional factors to consider: Your companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future If you stay in your companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pension and select the lifetime income option, the maximum annual benefit insured by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation in the event your company goes bankrupt is $55,840. Your health Pensions are meant to provide retirees with income for the rest of their lives. However, if the pension holder passes away, depending on the annuity option chosen, the surviving spouse typically receives a reduced benefit of at least half of the amount the plan

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holder would have received. Once the surviving spouse dies, any remaining pension benefit remains with the pension plan. With an IRA, you can elect a beneficiary to receive the IRA upon your death, such as another family member or a charity, assuming there are still assets left in the account. Minimum distributions If you were to roll your pension into an IRA, you would be required to take minimum distributions from your account, and pay taxes on them, once you reach age 70Â˝. Such requirements might not be an issue if you planned to begin withdrawing assets before you reach 70. But if you retire later in life and want to begin drawing down your funds after 70Â˝, the requirement may cause you to incur tax on distributions before you want to. Inflation Typically, fixed monthly pension payouts will not keep pace with inflation. Some pension benefits have a cost of living adjustment built in, but most do not. So if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re concerned about the declining value of your assets due to inflation, the lump sum option might be more suitable for you. So is an IRA rollover right for you? The most important thing is to review your pension options in the context of your overall financial picture. Do you have other substantial sources of retirement income? Are they enough to fund your lifestyle, or will you need the pension income to do so? How important is leaving assets to your heirs or charity? A qualified financial professional can help you identify your objectives, determine the costs associated with them, and decide whether a monthly check or rollover IRA is more appropriate given your circumstances. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor any of its employees provide legal or tax advice. You should consult with your personal legal or tax advisor regarding your personal circumstances. Financial Planning services are provided in our capacity as a registered investment adviser Michael B. Kemp Meridian Wealth Management, UBS Financial Services Inc. 540-855-3349 / e-mail: mike.kemp@ubs.com

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Tech Experts Offer 4-Step â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Reputation Marketingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Solution It happens all the time: The hard-working crew at a small business loses customers thanks to the sour grapes of one person. It could be a disgruntled employee, an angry customer or even a competitor, says V. Michael Santoro, coauthor with John S. Rizzo of Niche Dominance: Creating Order Out of Your Digital Marketing Chaos (www.NicheDominance. com). â&#x20AC;&#x153;Anyone can post a bad review online and hurt your business,â&#x20AC;? says Santoro, who is a managing partner with Rizzo of Globe On-Demand, an internet technology company. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Unfortunately, most business owners are not even aware that these bad reviews are out there.â&#x20AC;? Seventy-two percent of buyers trust reviews as much as personal recommendations, and 70 percent trust consumer opinions posted online, according to a recent Nielsen Global Trust in Advertising Survey. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A bad review published in a newspaper, or broadcast on radio or TV, is short-lived, but a bad review posted online can live indefinitely,â&#x20AC;? says Rizzo. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With consumers now researching an average of 10 reviews before making a buying decision, and 70 percent trusting a business that has a minimum of six reviews posted, business owners need to be proactive in developing their online reputation. You need several positive reviews.â&#x20AC;? Online searches have been streamlined, combining reviews with maps, pay-per-click advertising, local business directories and Facebook Fan pages, Santoro says. As damaging as bad reviews can be, positive reviews can be equally constructive, he says. Rizzo and Santoro offer an Internet marketing strategy called â&#x20AC;&#x153;reputation marketing,â&#x20AC;? described in the following steps: â&#x20AC;˘ Develop a 5-Star Reputation: Begin by having your happy customers post great reviews about your business. Strive to have at least 10. Have each post to one of the following:

Google Plus Local, Yelp, CitySearch, SuperPages, YP.com, your Facebook Fan page, etc. This needs to be a continuous process. Proactively ask your customers to post reviews. â&#x20AC;˘ Market Your Reputation: Once reviews are posted, use a well-designed online marketing strategy to drive targeted traffic to your website. Ensure that your website can convert this traffic into customers. Additionally, showcase these third-party reviews on your website. â&#x20AC;˘ Manage Your Reputation: Regularly check that the reviews being posted are positive. You can use Google Alerts for your business name; however, you will need to check the local directories, too, since theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not picked up by Google Alerts. By building up the positive reviews, you can counter a poor one by sheer volume. You should also quickly post a reply to a negative review if they occur. Always be professional and indicate what action you have taken to remedy the situation. â&#x20AC;˘ Create a Reputation Marketing Culture: Train your staff to proactively ask customers for reviews and to deal immediately with any customer who appears unhappy. A positive culture will encourage customers to post positive reviews about your business. John S. Rizzo & V. Michael Santoro John S. Rizzo obtained his bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in business administration and spent three years as a consultant for Amazon.comâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s publishing group. He has assisted several businesses with digital marketing strategy and has served in leadership positions for multiple initiatives for the Charleston, S.C.-Area Chamber of Commerce. V. Michael Santoro has more than 10 years in the digital marketing field. His prior experience includes international senior marketing positions in technology fields. He has a masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree from Central Connecticut State University and an undergraduate degree from the University of New Haven. Santoro was an adjunct professor with the computer science department of Western Connecticut State University.

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Are Words Becoming Obsolete in Marketing? It sure looks like it. Most of the recent marketing successes are visual successes, not verbal ones. Here are 10 examples from my recent book, Visual Hammer (www.visualhammer.com). 1. The lime. Until 2009, there had never been a Mexican brand on Interbrand’s list of 100 most valuable global brands. There is now: Corona, the beer with the lime on top of the bottle. Today, Corona is the 86th most valuable global brand, worth $3.9 billion. In the United States, Corona outsells Heineken, the No. 2 imported beer, by more than 50 percent. 2. The chalice. A second imported beer is moving up the ladder in America and for exactly the same reason Corona was so successful. It’s Stella Artois from Belgium. Stella Artois is the Budweiser of Belgium, so ordinary fastfood restaurants sell it in plastic cups. No plastic cups for Stella Artois in the U.S. market. The importer provided bars and restaurants with its unique, gold-tipped chalice glasses. Today, Stella Artois is one of the top 10 imported beer brands in America. 3. The silver bullet. The only mainstream beer that has increased its market share in the past few years is Coors Light, the silver bullet. Coors Light has already passed Miller Lite, the first light-beer brand, and recently Coors Light also steamed past Budweiser to become the second largest-selling beer brand in America. 4. The duck. Then there’s the remarkable transformation of Aflac, the company that brought us the duck. In the year 2000, the company had name recognition of just 12 percent. Today it’s 94 percent. And sales have gone up just as dramatically. The first year after the duck arrived, Aflac sales increased 29 percent. And 28 percent the second year. And 18 percent the third year. 5. The pink ribbon.

In 1982, Nancy Brinker started a foundation to fight breast cancer in memory of her sister, Susan G. Komen, who had died from the disease. Since then, Susan G. Komen for the Cure has raised nearly $2 billion. Today, it’s the world’s-largest non-profit source of money to combat breast cancer. A recent Harris poll of non-profit charitable brands rated Komen for the Cure as the charity that consumers were “Most likely to donate to.” 6. The red soles. Look at the success of Christian Louboutin, a French designer who regularly tops The Luxury Institute’s index of “most prestigious women’s shoes.” In 1992, he applied red nail polish to the sole of a shoe because he felt the shoes lacked energy. “This was such a success,” he reported, “that it became a permanent fixture.” And ultimately built the phenomenally successful Louboutin brand. 7. The green jacket. In the world of professional golf, there are four major championships: (1) The U.S. Open, (2) The British Open, (3) The PGA Championship and (4) The Masters. The first three are hosted by major golf organizations, but the Masters is hosted by a private club, the Augusta National Golf Club. Every, year the Masters gets more attention than any of the other three events. 8. The colonel. Consider KFC, now the leading fast-food restaurant chain in China with more than 3,800 units in 800 cities. To most Chinese people, the letters “K F C” mean nothing, but Col. Sanders is known as a famous American and the leading fried-chicken brand. 9. The Coke bottle. What Coca-Cola calls its “contour” bottle is 96 years old. Few are currently sold but recently, the company gave its iconic bottle a major role to play in its advertising programs. The results have been impressive. Recently Diet Coke passed

regular Pepsi-Cola to become the second best-selling cola drink. 10. The cowboy. And look what the cowboy has done for Marlboro cigarettes. The year Marlboro was introduced, there were four strong cigarette brands in America: Lucky Strike, Camel, Winston and Chesterfield. Yet today, Marlboro is by far the leading brand, outselling the next 13 brands combined. It’s also the world’s best-selling cigarette brand. Laura Ries is president of Ries & Ries (www.ries.com), a marketing consulting firm in Atlanta. Laura and her partner/father, Positioning pioneer Al Ries – have co-written six books on branding that challenge conventional wisdom. Al’s revolutionary book “Positioning: The battle for your mind” taught us words are important in marketing and now Laura’s book “Visual Hammer” (www. VisualHammer.com) tells us why visuals are more powerful.

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Piccadilly Square, the European shopping plaza on Franklin lot for U.S. Airways for 22 years and Kelly founded an internaRoad is celebrating 33 years in business with an ongoing sale. tional Montessori pre-school and first grade in Oslo, Norway, Former VA Tech Hall of Fame star and Baltimore Colt stand- 23 years ago. It is still operating successfully there – though she out, George Preas had a dream is now on sabbatical.” and built the center in 1979 B.J. says that her present after purchasing the property tenants are, “among the very from his good friend and hotel best; their businesses are all magnate, Joel Krisch. “award winning” and they He began with shop number continue to grow. Additionally one, R.S.V.P., eventually owned the shops are a desirable blend by Joel’s daughter Kathy Oeland complement each other schlager, who later added the well.” The property and lovely addition of Provisions - Kitchgrounds have been recognized en Hardware for Cooks. While by garden clubs and Valley designing individual and sepaBeautiful for their attractive rate European storefronts all appearance and landscaping. around the center, George The cerebral quality of Preas created a very special and George Preas took him to the unique square. The 33+ sucpinnacle of the commercial cessful years have been a joy world in Southwest Virginia. George and B.J. Preas – taken in 1979 – the year Piccadilly to both George and his survivHe also created an antique Square was born. ing, energetic and business ori“Old English Inn” known as ented wife B.J. She and George the Red Lion Inn in Blackswere always remarkable teammates and after his death in 2007, burg, created a terraced professional center for doctors, lawB.J. has continued his hardworking traditions. yers and many others which resembled an “old world plaza” in Piccadilly Square is an exceptionally cozy place to shop and Roanoke and built the large Liberty Mutual building nearby. dine with pretty window boxes and clay pots planted with colIn addition to buying and developing real estate, Preas sold orful geraniums and cascading vines. Awnings accent doors the Sealtest Dairy Distributor to a conglomerate and formed and windows which spell out an invitation to “come in.” “George Preas Properties” for his other holdings. George Preas At one time, B.J. operated a fine imported linen shop at the accomplished all of this while being known as a handsome plaza. She admits, with her usual big smile, that it was success- and quiet gentleman, who was always friendly and generous. ful but adds that it was because George gave her free rental Part architect-builder, entrepreneur and practical visionary, space. “How could one fail…she grins, it does pay to know the but true to his nature, the last to extol his accomplishments – landlord!” Preas epitomized how intelligence and hard work correlated Through the years Preas always allowed his family to be in- to progress. volved in his businesses. This included helping with names, Sandy Unitas, wife of the great Johnny Unitas and a close colors, uniforms, menus, signs, and may other details. Their friend, spoke of George after his memorial service, “with fondchildren, George Preas, Jr. “Geep” and Kelly, help B.J. now with est memories of a wonderful player in life and on the field.” some business decisions that she makes, though they remain very busy with their own ventures as well. “Geep has been a pi-

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Arts & Culture

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Art Show Unites Two Different Worlds Taste of Culture Puts Local Jewish

Community in the Spotlight

Research Inspired Art from the 2011 Winter Show. Engineering and science aren’t often associated with art, but an art show at Virginia Tech seeks to challenge that. The Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics has partnered with the Center for Peace Studies and Violence Prevention to host the Norris Hall Art Show. The art show runs through Sept. 24, 2012. It is free and open to the public 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Art by engineering science and mechanics faculty and staff is featured. “I just enjoy the act of creation and discovery, whether it is art or science,” said Jake Socha, a professor in engineering science and mechanics and one of the artists featured. “One of the things that is critically important in science is communication. If you understand something or discover something new, it’s meaningless if you can’t explain it to someone else. Oftentimes art is the best way to do it – images, drawings, and videos can oftentimes convey concepts far more effectively than words alone.” “It’s important because we can show that we are able to look through different lenses and see different perspectives,” said Anne-Marie Bracken, the office manager for the Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics who organized the event. The first art show took place in Norris Hall in 2008 as a celebration of the Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics’ 100th

anniversary. The collaboration between the department and the center started when the Center for Peace Studies and Violence Prevention moved into Norris Hall in 2009, two years after it was formed following the shootings of April 16, 2007. Amy Splitt, office manager at the Center for Peace Studies and Violence Prevention, said that the staffs in the department and the center share an enjoyment of art, so the collaboration was a natural choice. In the past, the shows have featured the art of students, faculty members, and Blacksburg artists. Various types of art – including photography, sculpture, watercolor, and mixed media – have been featured. Other shows have also had themes, such as research-inspired art in the winter of 2011. However, this year’s show has no theme. Bracken said that she hopes that will leave it open for the artists to express themselves in any way they choose. Bracken has been an artist for many years, and she says she enjoys getting other people excited about art. “Once you do art, you look at the world in a different way,” she said. Written by Allison Hedrick of Chatham, Va., a senior communication major in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences at VT.

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Local Colors kicked off its Taste of Culture lunchtime program at its new location on Wall Street beside the City Market building last month with music, dance and food from the Philippines. Last Friday, for the first time ever, Israel was the focal point. Jewish delicacies like kugel, ruggelah and hamentashen, along with Middle Eastern favorites like baklava and hummus, were served up in fivedollar plates. “I don’t even know what that is,” said one teenaged boy when servers at the food table asked him about a choice of dessert items. Proceeds went to a trip being arranged for local students and World War II veterans next spring, “The March of the Living.” That group will tour Nazi death camps in Poland, including Auschwitz; many will then go on to the nation created after the Holocaust, the Jewish state of Israel. Local Colors, better known for the annual event at Elmwood Park that includes the Parade of Nations, was founded by Pearl Fu, the Chinese immigrant who wanted to showcase the valley’s diversity. Taste of Culture was created in 2006 and takes place outdoors during the warmer months. Roanoke City Parks and Recreation, which is involved with the program, asked if “Taste” could be moved from Century Plaza, tucked in an alcove across from Fire Station #1 on Church Avenue, to Wall Street. It is held on the second Friday of each month through October, from 11am – 1:30 pm. Next up is a brand new country – literally – South Sudan. Norway, which has appeared at Taste of Culture before, rounds out this year’s lunchtime program in October. Temple Emanuel and the Beth Israel Synagogue helped coordinate the program last week and are raising money for the March of the Living tour. Local Colors board president Jay Saunders said Taste of Culture has featured at least 30 countries since it debuted. “With Local Colors becoming one of the more prominent fes-

Mayor David Bowers (left) learns some dance steps. tivals in the valley, they requested that we come down here for higher exposure,” said Saunders of the City’s request that Taste of Culture moved to the market area. In light of events like the mass murder at the Sikh temple in Wisconsin, Saunders feels it is “critical” that people reach out to understand other cultures and religions. “Its essential for our mutual survival. The world is getting to be a smaller place all the time. We need to know our neighbors. Mark Twain said that if more people could travel there would be no more wars.” Jeffrey Rigdon – one of the fellows dressed like a horned Viking at local parades with the Vikings of the Valley group – helped Fu get Taste of Culture off the ground. The San Francisco native grew up in a multicultural environment and found the opportunity to meet a diverse group of people with Local Colors when he moved to Roanoke. “You get to taste the cuisine of a country, as if you were there,” said Rigdon as ethnic Jewish music blared from speakers in the background. “Lets enjoy each other’s history …it comes to people being people. There’s no reason we [all] can’t be friends.” Countries large and small, from Polynesia to Brazil and Lithuania have all taken part in Taste of Culture. Rigdon is also helping to develop an international festival along Williamson Road next May, which will include an event at Happy’s Flea

Market and involves merchants on the commercial corridor. Roanoke City Mayor David Bowers, who gamely tried his hand at an ethnic dance, asked attendees to “celebrate our Jewish heritage. We’re very proud of our Jewish community here in Roanoke.” Bowers also asked people to say a silent prayer for Pearl Fu, who was “under the weather,” and not present. Fu has been slowed by Parkinson’s in recent years. Lori Strauss and Kira Gurevich were on hand to promote The March of the Living. She called the Taste of Culture event “a commitment by the whole Jewish community [in Roanoke].” Strauss said students from all over the world will take part in the march from Auschwitz to Birkenau camp, before many of them head to Israel. That’s one reason they were raising money by selling lunches last Friday. “We have a lot of money to raise [for local students from the two congregations],” noted Strauss. Gurevich went on the March of the Living tour several years ago. Her youngest daughter will go next spring. “It’s a lifetime experience. You learn a lot being there, knowing your history, where we are coming from. We just want to make sure the Holocaust will never repeat.” People who lined up to buy lunches were all doing their small part to make sure that those who go to Poland next spring will never forget By Gene Marrano either. gmarrano@cox.net

Virginia Tech Cosponsors Catawba Farm Fest Music Festival

A three-day music festival at the Virginia Tech Catawba Sustainability Center Aug. 31 through Sept. 2 will feature Acoustic Syndicate and other bands, cosponsored by the Virginia Tech Roanoke Center<and Half Acre Promotions.Brief talks on sustainability and other issues related to farming and the environment will take place throughout the weekend. “I’m excited to be launching the first Catawba Farm Fest in part because it fits so well with the mission of the Catawba Sustainability Center, which is a showcase for land-management practices that promote environmental stewardship,” says Kay Dunkley, Roanoke Center director. “The music promises to be great, with a range of bands and music styles including blues, rock, bluegrass, and even gospel.”

Acoustic Syndicate Other bands in the lineup include Larry Keel and Natural Bridge, Wayne Henderson, Papadosio, Corey Harris and The Rasta Blues Experience, Kat Mills, and NO BS Brass Band. Camping will be available on the grounds of the Catawba Sustainability Center, which is situated on 377 acres in the Catawba Valley approximately 20 minutes by car from Roanoke. The

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festival will also feature vendors offering local foods. Ticket prices, directions, and other details about the festival can be found on the festival website.www.catawbafarmfest.org/. For more information about the Farm Fest, contact Eric Langston (welangston@gmail.com) or at 540-557-7012 . Admission is $80 for the weekend, but starts at $20 a day.

Arts & Culture

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8/17/12- 8/23/12 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 17

Hot Pickers, New Bands in Concert at Blue Ridge Music Center On August 25th, the Blue Ridge Music Center will feature two great bands for a memorable night of bluegrass, hot picking and spirited, old-time music that will make you want to dance. Jus’ Cauz Jus’ Cauz is a popular bluegrass band that hails from Danville that formed three years ago. Mark Hudson is the lead singer and guitar player for the group. David Lewis plays mandolin, Larry Hall – bluegrass banjo and Jerry Steinberg will play the low tones on the doghouse bass. Tim Smith, formerly of the Bluegrass Cardinals, will be fiddling in place of regular fiddler, Tim Martin, who is on medical leave. Jus’ Cauz performs regularly all over the Blue Ridge and their concert on Song of the Mountains will be airing soon on PBS. The band scored big at the Vir-

Jus’ Cauz ginia Folk Music Association festival in Chesterfield, VA. Recent awards there include: first place lead vocals, first-place fiddle, banjo and guitar ribbons as well as second place bluegrass band. Expect to hear the best in traditional bluegrass from this new band of seasoned players. Also appearing will be The Old-Time Pals - a hard-driving,

traditional, old-time band from Grayson and Carroll counties in Virginia. The group includes Tim Donley on fiddle, Trish Kilby-Fore on banjo, Steve Kilby on guitar and Erin Creed on bass. The Old-Time Pals Influences for the group include: Harold B. Hausenfluck, the Spencer and Birchfield

Southwestern Virginia Setting Again For New Novel By Local Author

Blacksburg-based author Michael Abraham, who knows something about growing up as a fish out of water, as part of a Jewish family based in southwestern Virginia, has just released his second novel set in this area: Providence, VA. Its heroine is a teenaged, Jewish girl from New Jersey who finds culture shock when she moves to southwestern Virginia. But Samantha “Sammy” Reisinger can also play a mean violin, which she converts to fiddle playing in this neck of the woods. Tragedy strikes while she performs at the Old Time Fiddlers Convention in Galax but Sammy perseveres to become part of the community. Abraham’s previous books included another novel (Union, WV) and two non-fiction works, The Spine of the Virginias and Harmonic Highways, which include accounts of the people he has met along the way in southwestern Virginia. “I like to listen, and I think that everybody has got a story,” said Abraham, who felt he was the right person to tell those stories. Since his family sold Christiansburg Printing to Wordsprint, Abraham has had more time to wander back roads on his motorcycle. The inspiration for his two novels came from real life people he met in Virginia and West Virginia. “If I have a talent for anything it’s a talent for bringing out the stories in [people] and making it interesting to wider audiences,” said Abraham. In general people seem happy to share the details of their lives; he’s detected “a high level of life satisfaction” for those that live here in Central Appalachia. “We don’t have the money that some other places have but most people really love it here.” They’re happy to tell others most of the time about what makes it such a great place to live, according to Abraham. “They do tend to open up to me quite a bit.”

Michael Abraham Blacksburg is five miles in every direction from Appalachia jokes Abraham, a place where people can wake up with “birds singing in their yard. They can grow things they can eat in the back yard. The vistas and the mountains are the things we treasure here.”

Providence, VA (Pocahontas Press) was inspired by a woman Abraham met at the Swinging Bridge restaurant in Paint Bank. She told Abraham about her neighbors, who were “survivors.” That notion appealed to Abraham, who generally feels the planet is on an unsustainable course unless inhabitants change their ways. “It’s very difficult for any sane person to deny that the climate

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is warming. The political football that it’s become is horrifying to me.” Abraham wanted to look at that “collapse” via a novel, through the outsider’s eyes of Sammy Reisinger, a “rich, Jewish, city kid,” whose father made a bundle working for Goldman Sachs. Sammy inherits a priceless violin and learns how to play it well enough to join a youth symphony. Then she discovers fiddle music and sees “the incredible connection between the fiddler and the audience. She longs for that and decides to go to the Fiddler’s Convention in Galax.” While she’s in Galax a complete collapse of the power grid – remember the Derecho? – kills everything that’s microprocessor based – even cars, watches, etc. “It sends this little Appalachian community back into life 100 years ago,” notes Abraham. That’s the world Sammy must cope with but she is surrounded by kind, loving people from the hills of southwestern Virginia that are bound to help her make it. “There are plenty of stresses that people have to endure [during the power outage].” Abraham is fascinated by energy and weaves his feelings on sources for it throughout Providence, VA. Besides Sammy, who becomes a midwife, his novel features characters that are religious fanatics, professors and back-to-the-earth types. “I try to educate. It’s important for me that the reader finish this book and know something they didn’t know before,” said Abraham. “It’s not sufficient for me to just tell a story.”

Families, Enoch Rutherford, Larry Pennington, Barbara Poole and others. All members of the band have won top honors at fiddlers’ conventions and contests across the country. The Old-Time Pals are, as their name suggests, good friends who play fine music together. You won’t want to miss hearing them perform. The Hot Pickers, New Bands Concert starts at 7pm on Saturday, Aug 25th. Concert seating opens at 5:30pm. Admission $8/$5 students & seniors. Children 12 and under are free. As always, there will be free Mid Day Mountain Music in the BRMC breezeway from 12-4pm and the free Roots of American Music museum will be open 9am-8pm on this concert night. Bring lawn chairs and the whole family. Picnics welcome. Smokehouse BBQ available. No pets or alcohol. For info call

The Old-Time Pals (276) 236-5309 x112. Tickets are available at the Galax Visitor Center, Barr’s Fiddle Shop, online at www.BlueRidgeMusicCenter.org and at the gate. The Blue Ridge Music Center is located at milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The summer-evening concert series

occurs every weekend through mid-September in the outdoor amphitheater at the foot of beautiful Fisher Peak.

Eastmont Tomato Festival Celebrates All Things Tomato!

Celebrating “All Things Tomato” the EastMont Tomato Festival will have more hours of fun than ever before. The festival will open at 10am, on August 18 at the Meadowbrook Center in Shawsville, with events lasting until 4pm. The 2012 Festival schedule includes the crowd- pleasing Tomato Pageant at 10:30 and a Magic Show at 11:15. A full range of musical acts will play throughout the day, as well. Scheduled musicians include Dan and Joy Burroughs, Alleghany Strings, Fort Vause Band, and the Chris Giles Collective. Tomato Cuisine is a highlight of the EastMont Tomato Festival, with traditional dishes like Fried Green Tomatoes and Tomato Sandwiches on the menu. The “Tour of EastMont” special allows folks to choose a sample of items for a discounted price. Artists and cooks are encouraged to participate in the wide range of contests with art contest categories including “art featuring tomatoes” and “art made from actual tomatoes.” Separate prizes will be given for adults and for children. The art contests will be judged by members of the EastMont Art Association. Food contest categories include salsa, spaghetti sauce, and ketchup. Prizes will also be awarded for the best tasting, biggest and funniest looking tomato. Dennis Dove and Barry Robinson, festival veterans, will judge the food contests. This year they will be joined by Donna Speaks, owner of the soon-to-open Mockingbird Cafe in Christiansburg. The Tomato Pageant, emceed by the renowned Robert Pilkington, requires that contestants “Wear Red, act like Tomato Royalty, and display a Tomato Talent or Skill.” Pageant Judge Leslie Hager-Smith will, no doubt, have an interesting challenge in selecting winners. For the energetic younger Michael Abraham’s books are crowd, the TomatOlympics adds available at online booksellers tomato dexterity to the usual and on his website, bikemike. events, creating a fun and exciting sporting spectacle. The EastMont name. Farmers Market will have tomatoes for sale, and various artists and crafters will tempt you with By Gene Marrano their projects and products. Area non-profits will also be there to gmarrano@cox.net share information with the pub-

The 2009 Heirloom Tomato Queen, Karen Cronin (right), crowns the 2010 Cherry Tomato Baby. lic. There are still sponsorships available for the festival, and volunteers are always welcome. “Our sponsorship levels reflect various varieties of tomatoes,” explained Michael Hemphill. “Whether Cherry Tomato or Big Boy, we have a sponsorship for everyone.” Hemphill is the Executive Direc-

tor of the Mountain Valley Charitable Foundation, which benefits from funds raised by the Tomato Festival. For more information about the Eastmont Tomato Festival, contact Michael Hemphill at michael@ eastmontva.com or 540-556-2879 or visit www.EastmontTomatoFestival.com.

The Roanoke Valley’s most beloved event venue has re-opened following the completion of a major renovation and expansion. The historic and stately Vinton War Memorial is now even better suited to host weddings, business functions and celebrations of all kinds. Exquisite architectural detail is paired with meticulous personal service to make every event special. For more information, call 540.983.0645.

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Page 18 | The Roanoke Star-Sentinel | 8/17/12- 8/23/12

Back to School Apple Snack Squares 2 cups white sugar 2 eggs 3/4 cup vegetable oil 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups self-rising flour 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 3 cups peeled, cored, and chopped tart apple 1 cup chopped walnuts 1 cup butterscotch chips

TheRoanokeStar.com

Give a Bouget of Origami Flowers to Your Teacher!

-Preheat oven to 350 and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. -In a large bowl, combine sugar, eggs, oil and vanilla until well blended. -Stir in flour and cinnamon. Mixture will be thick. Fold in apple and nuts. Spread in prepared baking dish. Sprinkle top with butterscotch chips. -Bake in preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, until pick inserted in center comes out clean. -Cool and cut into squares and serve for school day snacks.

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Art Linkletter once asked the above question of a boy on his television show. He received a one-word reply: "Duck!" The giant Goliath could have used this advice when he fought young David in a story described in First Samuel 17. Better yet, Goliath could have ducked the judgment of God if he had taken advice from Philip, 11. "Never underestimate the power of God or a boy." What Goliaths are you facing? Fear? Loneliness? Rejection? Don't despair, says Rachel, 10. "Size doesn't matter. It's your faith in God." Before giants fall by your sling, however, there may be some warm-up battles you need to fight.

"David was a shepherd and a fighter," says Adam, 10. "He fought animals that came around sheep. He killed a lion and a bear because he loved his sheep. So when King Saul said to David, `Are you sure?' David said, `I can belt him,' and he did." Because David had practiced trusting God to help him protect the sheep, David was prepared to trust God in facing Goliath. When we trust God, however, people around us will say, "Are you sure?" They will offer their own advice as Saul offered his armor to David, and they'll question our actions. Family members may be the most scornful. David's own brother contemptuously asked: "Why have you come down here? And with whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness?" Does this sound like someone at the office or at home? Though Saul offered David the best armor in the kingdom, he decided to stick with what We now offer he knew best, his trusty sling. "If Acupuncture, you're going to wear armor," says & apy, ther r Lase Michael, 11, "ask God for the arAt Hanging Rock Animal Hospital, we offer traditional, Homeopathic mor." as well as holistic treatments for your furry family members. treatments! Faith in God was all the armor David needed. He boldly declared to Goliath, "The battle is the Lord's." The apostle Paul referred to this kind of faith as a "guard" around the hearts of those who have committed everything to God in prayer. When you do, "the peace of God, which passes all underwww.hangingrockah.com standing, will guard your hearts Please stop by to meet our great team, tour our hospital, and find out why and minds through Christ Jesus" we offer the best compresensive wellness care for you pet. (Philippians 4:7). No weapon can Cinthia L. Honeycutt, DVM Todd Czarnecki, DVM, CVA Laura Nelson, DVM pierce this armor. Or, as Sarah, 1910 Loch Haven Drive â&#x20AC;˘ Roanoke, VA 24019 â&#x20AC;˘ 540-562-4596 9,says, "Just because Goliath is taller and has better stuff doesn't mean that he can beat David." Trusting in the better "stuff " of technology will not win the battle against one who is shielded by the power of God. Goliath had all the best stuff: bronze helmet, armor, shin guards, a 17-pound spear and a shield-bearer who walked in front of him. Goliath lost his head by trusting in better technology and the false gods of the Philistines. So don't get sidetracked in battle and become afraid of those with better stuff. Remember the lesson of David and Goliath according to James, 11: "If you believe in God, He will be there for you when you need Him. And He will help you do things you usually aren't capable of doing." Sarah, 10, agrees, "Big people don't get to do all the big things. If we believe in God, we can do anything." But if you're a giant who's just out to pick a fight, Melissa, 9, says, "Pick on someone your own size." Carey Kinsolving is a syndicated columnist, producer, author, speaker and website developer. To see more material like this, visit www.KidsTalkAboutGod.org.

8/17/12- 8/23/12 |The Roanoke Star-Sentinel |Page 19

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