Susan M. Ayers / Creative Writer with Flair

July 26, 2010

Susan’s New Post

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VDOT Construction Engineer Robbie Williams goes over plans for widening 221.

VDOT Construction Engineer Robbie Williams goes over plans for widening 221.

Published in The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
July 23-29, 2010 Edition

 

Back Creek Meeting Addresses Windmills, 221

Members of the community occupied almost every seat at the quarterly meeting of the Back Creek Civic League held on Monday at Back Creek Fire Station #11.

The agenda included recognition of two long-time law enforcement officials, who were recently promoted, the long awaited road-widening project on Bent Mountain and the controversial plan to install wind turbines on Poor Mountain.

Widening a one-mile stretch of Route-221 (also known as Bent Mountain Road) from Crystal Creek Drive to Cotton Hill Road is no longer sitting on a shelf. “We are getting ready to build a road,” confirmed VDOT Construction Engineer Robbie Williams.  The project has been on an off the transportation’s six-year plan. Funding has been the major issue.

A contract for more than $20 million has been awarded by VDOT to WC English, a construction company in Lynchburg. Funding came by the way of stimulus money.

VDOT hopes to have the ‘Notice to Proceed with Construction by September 1.  The road will be expanded from a two-lane to a four-lane highway up to Cotton Hill.

There is a landscaping plan in place and the footprint of the roadway has been kept narrow with a narrow median. According to VDOT, there will be an additional 14 feet on each side, which will not leave the scar that some roadways have left.   It is anticipated that the project will be completed in its entirety by August 2013.

Poor Mountain Wind Turbines

Several members of the community also voiced concerns about Invenergy Wind Development’s proposal to construct 18 wind turbines on 2000 acres it has leased on Poor Mountain from local property owners.

Invenergy plans to sell the electricity generated from the turbines to American Electric Power and tap into its transmission line to upload the power created. It has been estimated that the 37.5 megawatts generated could power 8,000 homes in Roanoke County.

Ed Kinzer, a resident of Bent Mountain since the 1980’s and a retired science teacher from Glenvar High School, presented a slideshow on the potential adverse effects of wind turbines. Kinzer stated that there could be far reaching damage in the community to the environment, health, public safety as well as an adverse economic impact.  “Ultimately, we need to look at an ordinance to protect ridge tops in this area,” said Kinzer.

“I’m here as a pilot and as a citizen of Roanoke Valley. I have knowledge as to how our air space works,”  said Matthew Broughton, an aviation attorney and President of the IFR Pilots’ Club.  He voiced a concern that has been raised by pilots in recent weeks. 

“We have high minimums in Roanoke and can only go so low. If we can’t see the airport, we have to land elsewhere. In Roanoke, we don’t want minimums to go higher to make it harder to get into Roanoke,” said Broughton of flying higher to avoid towers that could be 400′ tall.  “If we want jobs to come into Roanoke, don’t make it harder to get into Roanoke. Every time we go higher, ice is more of an issue. No one wants to sit up there in the air in more ice.”

Bent Mountain Civic League President Eldon Karr, an architect, said he had installed four wind turbines in the past.  He questioned the return on investment.  “ Every time on a residential installation, we go through the cost benefit analysis. With wind turbines, cost [to install] couldn’t be recouped any sooner than 10 years and then, the savings is minimal because wind comes and goes.”

Another community member said that the History Channel did a story on this, which indicated that people with wind turbines are very disappointed.  It will be necessary for The Roanoke County Board of Supervisors to review all relevant data and give permits  before the wind turbines can be built.

Like their Back Creek neighbors down the hill, the “Bent Mountain Civic League also has a meeting coming up “and will be doing fundraising to help with expenses we’ll incur in this fight [against turbines],” said Karr.

Holt/Winston Recognized

In May the United States Senate confirmed retired Roanoke County Sheriff Gerald Holt to serve as U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Virginia. Having worked in law enforcement for four decades, Marshal Holt brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with him to his new position.

“I drove over 4,000 miles in the first month just getting to my offices,” said  Holt. The seven court divisions within the Western District include Abingdon, Big Stone Gap, Charlottesville, Danville, Harrisonburg, Lynchburg and Roanoke. The headquarters office is located in Roanoke and there are four manned sub-offices in Abingdon, Charlottesville, Harrisonburg and Lynchburg.

The functions of the U.S. Marshal’s Service are extensive and include apprehending fugitives, protecting the federal judiciary, operating the witness security program, transporting federal prisoners, and seizing property acquired through illegal activities.

Mike Winston has been serving as Sheriff since the departure of Holt and is the Democratic Party candidate for Sheriff for the upcoming November election. Winston previously served as Chief Deputy for the Roanoke County Sheriff’s Office for 18 years and has worked in law enforcement for 40 years.

Winston and Holt worked together for several years.  I’ve had some “big shoes” to fill. It’s a good organization. We built it together and had some exciting times,” recalled Winston.

By Susan Ayers

July 6, 2010

Susan’s Post

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City officials and community leaders cut the ribbon at No. 5.

City officials and community leaders cut the ribbon at No. 5.

Published in The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
July 2-8, 2010 Edition

 

 

 

Fire Station 5 Opening Draws Sizeable Crowd

Despite the sweltering heat and humidity, members of the community came out in droves to celebrate the grand opening of Roanoke’s new Fire-EMS Station 5 held on Monday, June 28.

Roanoke City Manager Chris Morrill was pleased to see the large attendance and remarked, “This is not just a fire station. It’s for the community. I’ve been to a lot of these events in other cities. It’s quite unusual to see so many members of a community present.”

Also in attendance and on hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony were local dignitaries, Virginia’s Secretary of Public Safety Marla Decker, community leaders, retirees from the department and Fire-EMS personnel.

The Station 5 construction project started in the fall of 2007 with the consultant selection process. The bid process took place in October 2008. Construction began on January 12, 2009. Fire-EMS personnel began moving into the new facility last week on June 22, one day after construction was completed.

Located at 1920 Orange Avenue, the new Station 5 consolidates the former Station 5 located at 216 12th Street, NW and Station 9 located at 514 24th Street, NW. Personnel from both stations have relocated to the new station.

“We’ll remember our past, but are excited about the future. We took the poles that were used at Station 3 when it closed in 2007 because of Captain Chris Brown, who last October passed away. It was his idea that the poles could be used at the new station. Firefighters have also salvaged other pieces from fire stations that have closed and this has saved a lot money,” said Chief David Hoback.

“Station 5 is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified,” said Mayor David Bowers. LEED certification provides independent third-party evaluation that a building project is environmentally responsible, financially beneficial and a healthy place to live or work.

The $4.8 million new state-of-the-art facility has been built for the use of the community as well. It has a gender friendly environment. Other features include dorm rooms, a fitness room, four bays to accommodate modern fire and EMS apparatus, office space for the Battalion Chief and Station Captain and a police sub station. “This is an example of what we are doing for Northwest. This is just as important as to the City,” added Bowers.

“Station 5 also houses the department’s new Pierce ladder truck with a 105-foot ladder on top. The truck itself carries a price tag of $843,000 and with all the equipment included ran close to $1 million. It’s a phenomenal truck,” enthused. Hoback.

Secretary Decker’s comments summed up the pride of everyone present: “In the design of this building, there has been a place for community. You have been a place for community. You have a commitment from the City at a time when the economy is in a downturn. The City could have turned its back but it didn’t. The firehouse has come to fruition. At this time of economic challenges, public safety has to be preserved. When you say you’re going to put a building in, you have to do it. It says a lot about community. It’s a great thing to commemorate this building. This building is a way to the future and hopefully, will be a model for future buildings, not just in Roanoke, but throughout the rest of the Commonwealth,” said Secretary Decker.

By Susan Ayers

March 27, 2010

Susan’s Post

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The bar and dining room stay busy on a recent night at SoRo.

The bar and dining room stay busy on a recent night at SoRo.

Published in The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
March 26-April 10, 2010 Edition

 

 

SoRo Chill and Grille Cooks Up Unique Menu

If it’s an authentic contemporary southern meal with “Big Easy” flair that you’re looking for, you may not need to purchase an airline ticket to New Orleans. Step into SoRo Chill & Grille and smell aroma from the Cajun spices that fill the air.

Named after the nearby South Roanoke neighborhood, the new locally owned and operated eatery’s doors were opened last September by owners Angela Drinkard and Ron Revia after completion of extensive renovations to an existing retail space most recently housed by a frame shop in Piccadilly Square Shopping Center.

The renovations include a communal table created within the bar that seats 30 people. “The communal table, often more popular in the northern states encourages mingling with other diners and most patrons like that. It’s a less formal arrangement than a restaurant area and bar-type foods as well as the full menu is available to order from,” remarked Drinkard. Flat screens are also featured in the lounge area.

“The eatery has two fireplaces inside, enjoyed by diners in the winter and there is outside seating available, which has been popular for lunch with the warmer temperatures,” added Drinkard. While the owners and staff do not consider the separate dining area to be fine dining, patrons may beg to differ because Head Chef and Kitchen Manager Kristy Pilot appears to have the art of food presentation down to a science. Various bands and musicians on a rotating basis provide musical entertainment on Thursday and Saturday evenings.

Judging by the line of patrons extending to the outside deck last Saturday evening, there is no shortage of business and those waiting to be seated appeared to be having a festive time and not minding the wait.

The goal and philosophy of the owners is to invest in Southwest Virginia by patronizing local businesses and suppliers for products needed by the business. Each of the owners has their own niche. “I am more hands-on and he is more behind the scenes,” said Drinkard.

When the eatery initially opened, a trial menu was fun and the owners used feedback from customers to weed out the dishes that weren’t as popular. Two of the most popular dishes are “Shrimp and Grits” and “Pasta Mardi Gras.” A vegetarian special is featured nightly. For those who aren’t into Cajun, there are more traditional menu items including pasta dishes, seafood, burgers, clubs and salads. A mixed grill of offerings is available for both lunch and dinner and the Sunday brunch menu is extensive and varied, with all dishes made from scratch.

Drinkard and Regia have worked for and with some of the best restaurateurs in the industry. She started in the restaurant business 15 years ago and loves it. Regia grew up with his grandparents owning a restaurant in Louisiana and he also opened a Copeland’s in New Orleans under the supervision of the late Al Copeland, one of the foremost authorities on Cajun food and restaurants.

“This has always been a dream of ours,” enthused Drinkard.

Located at 3117 Franklin Road, the hours of operation are Monday-Thursday 11:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m., Friday 11:00 a.m.- midnight, Saturday 10:00 a.m. – midnight and Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

For additional information, visit sorogrille.com.

By Susan Ayers

March 20, 2010

Susan’s Post

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Patrons browse the 2nd Helping Gallery

Patrons browse the 2nd Helping Gallery.

Published in The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
March 12-18, 2010 Edition

 

 

 

2nd Helpings Gallery Features
Art Competition Winners

The artwork of three winners in The Rescue Mission’s Fourth Annual Art Collection Competition 2009 was featured at an artist reception held at 2nd Helpings Gallery on Saturday, March 6. Music was provided by Dan Chitwood’s band.

“Feather” Photography by Barry Wolfe, “Spring at Creekside” Pastel by Mary Anne Meador and “Mama’s Boys” Acrylic by Sally Mook were selected by Curator Taliaferro Logan, Director of the Olin Gallery at Roanoke College as three of six winners in the competition. There were 65 entries. A different curator judges the competition each year. Artwork of the remaining three winners will be featured in next month’s artist reception.

Wolfe lives in Roanoke and has worked as a periodontist since 1974. His interest in photography dates back to dental school. Having been an active professional photographer since 1987, Wolfe does all of the digital printing for his pieces and enjoys displaying a bold composition and details in order to show form and color. He has participated in several art shows in Roanoke as well as one-man shows throughout the country. “I golfed seriously for several years and was formerly a tour tournament golfer. Last year I quit playing golf totally and now focus more on photography,” said Wolfe. I enjoy doing the “small parts of big pictures,” he added.

Meador, a retired nurse, has resided in Roanoke since 2007. A member of the Arts Council of Blue Ridge, Bold Knob Artist Group and President of League of Roanoke Artists this year, she has taught several pastel and art workshops throughout North Carolina and Virginia. Meador enjoys using different media and is an “avid plein air painter.” Landscapes, city and beach scenes are her favorite subjects. “Participation in the Permanent Art Collection Show is an opportunity to share our artistic gifts with a very special group of people, sharing a positive moment of inspiration which celebrates the human spirit. I am impressed by the work that is done by the Rescue Mission and positive outcomes experienced by those receiving assistance,” remarked Meador.

Mook, a Blacksburg resident, is a retired nurse and has been painting seriously since 1990. She enjoys using a wide range of media to paint almost any subject and her inspiration comes from her imagination on real-life subjects. Her work has been included in collections throughout the United States as well as in several foreign countries. She has been a winner each year in the Rescue Mission’s Art Collection Competition.

Ongoing and Future Activities and Events:
The deadline for entering the Rescue Mission’s Fifth Annual Permanent Art Collection Competition 2010 is March 29. Entry forms are available in the 2nd Helpings Art Gallery. Hours of Operation: Monday-Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

“2nd Helpings Gallery will be a collection point for those who would like to donate art supplies to Blacksburg High School,” said Gallery Manager Rosalind Stanley.

Artist Reception 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Saturday, April 10, featuring “The Guitar Player” Acrylic by Olivia Kershaw Smith; “Bernie 220” Watercolor/Collage by Rosanne Moon and People’s Choice Award, “Vietnam Memorial” Pastel by Vikki King. Music presented by Mark Walsh and his band.

For additional information, visit www.rescuemission.net or call (540) 343-7227.

By Susan Ayers

Susan’s Post

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Melissa & Aaron Halsdorf in their new store.

Melissa & Aaron Halsdorf in their new store.

Published in The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
March 12-18, 2010

 

 

 

Consigning Women: The Roanoke
Valley’s Newest Consignment Store

The Roanoke Valley’s newest consignment store, Consigning Women, has opened at 2214 Electric Road [adjacent to Getty Mart near Oak Grove Plaza].

Owned and operated by Melissa and Aaron Halsdorf, the name of the store is a play on words of a popular television series in the 1980s and early 1990s, Designing Women. With the setting in Atlanta, the series featured five interior designers who worked together and focused on their interpersonal relationships and visits from friends, family and customers.

The Halsdorfs have a long history of retail experience and each has a niche – hers in sales and his in operations. Having moved to Roanoke from Winston Salem, “we wanted to open a consignment store that would appeal to a broader range of consignors and customers,” said Melissa Halsdorf.

“We often shopped in consignment stores in Winston Salem prior to relocating here. We take lower end stuff that many consignment shops here don’t take such as tee shirts,” added Aaron Halsdorf.

Consigning Women sells clothing for men, women and children, nursery items, games, toys, accessories, designer purses and housewares. They currently have several longaberger baskets for sale.

Unlike many other consignment stores, an appointment is not required for consignors to bring in items for consignment. The consignor’s commission is 50 percent less 50 cents of items sold. There is no initial or annual fee for consigning merchandise at the store.

Another unique aspect of the store is the owners’ desire to work with organizations, clubs and events that need to raise money. The Southwest VA Ballet has teamed up with the store for a fundraiser. Consigning Women is also working with other organizations on fundraising projects including Blue Ridge Autism, Alzheimer’s Association, Habitat for Humanity and Roanoke Valley Christian Schools. The store will work with organizations, clubs and events that need to raise money. Those consignors who want to donate items and want part or all of the sales proceeds to go to a particular organization normally take what they want to consign and donate to the organization, but if preferred can bring the items to the store. For fundraisers, the organization is not charged 50 cents per item sold.

The couple’s goal is for the store to be bright and fun as demonstrated by the store’s cheerful yellow and warm green walls. “If things go well enough, we plan to knock down the wall and expand,” remarked Aaron Halsdorf.

Consigning Women is open Monday-Friday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

For additional information, call (540) 400-7975.

By: Susan Ayers

February 13, 2010

Susan’s Post

Filed under: General — Tags: , — susanmayers @ 11:17 pm

Published in The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
February 12-18, 2010 Edition

Valentines Opportunities Galore

Wondering what to do on Valentine’s Day? There is something for everyone in the Roanoke Valley whether you are: a couple looking for a romantic evening, flying solo, on a first date or working on winning someone’s heart.

If it’s an upscale venue with dinner and dancing the night away that you’re looking for:

Desire – A Valentine’s Ball at The Sheraton Roanoke Hotel on February 13 may just be the ticket you are looking for. This year’s event features the music of The Kings with host John Carlin.

“We like to have fun. Like last year’s event, there will be games and contests for couples,” enthused Sponsor Hounds Vice-President Elliot Broyles. The evening kicks off with cocktails at 6:30 in the Sheraton’s main lobby reception area and doors open at 7:00. Cash bar. For additional information, visit www.sponsorhounds.com. To reserve seating, call (540) 206-2414 up until 6:00 p.m. February 12.

Valentine’s Day Singing Telegram on February 12 is one way to show your loved one how much you care. The $25 cost includes singing, a special card, candy and flower. All proceeds go to Bethany Hall’s Client Recreational Fund. Call Jenny Neel at (540) 343-4261, ext 308.

Showtimers Community Theater is presenting “Mame” a musical by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Lee. Featuring a fun-loving socialite, Mame Dennis acquires custody of her 10-year-old nephew, Patrick, and isn’t quite sure what to do. Songs include Bosom Buddies, That’s How Young I Feel and Mame. The show runs February 11-28 and the cost to attend is $12 for adults and $5 for those under age 18.

Tickets may be purchased online at www.showtimers.org or by phone at (540) 774-2660. Requests may be emailed to boxoffice@showtimers.org.

Valentine’s Day (2010), a new movie with an all-star cast, will be released in theaters on February 12. The comedy/romance film involves intertwining couples and singles in Los Angeles break-up and make-up based on the pressures and expectations of Valentine’s Day. A reviewer attending a press release regarding the movie said, “It is perfect for this day of love. Even if you are alone and have no Valentine of your own, it will set the mood and you will feel the love that is in the air at this time of year.”

For those who opt for a simpler means to show their love, consider making home made valentines and giving conversational hearts with the candy’s thematic take on love. And there is always the more traditional approach including one or any combination of: a box of chocolates, flowers and heart-shaped jewelry.

Light some candles and watch a romantic movie to cap the evening…
The bottom line is that however Valentine’s Day is celebrated, the main thing is to feel that love is in the air!

By Susan Ayers

February 5, 2010

Susan’s Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 7:39 pm

Miss Bonnie with samples of her new product

Miss Bonnie with samples of her new product.

Published in The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
February 5-11, 2010 Edition

 

Miss Bonnie’s Cheese Spreads Are a Hit

Looking for something easy, quick and delicious to serve for Superbowl Sunday? You may not need to look far. Enter Miss Bonnie’s Gourmet Cheese Spreads.

Beginning this Friday, the newly introduced classic cheddar cheese spread will be available for sale at 11 Kroger stores in the Roanoke Valley. Kroger introduced Miss Bonnie’s pimento cheese and jalapeno pepper cheese spreads to the area last summer. “It’s a great product line and we’re proud to carry it,” enthused Cheese Category Manager Tonya Morris.

On Saturday and Sunday, Kroger customers will have the opportunity to sample Miss Bonnie’s Olive Salad recipe, made with her Cheese Spread and Gambino’s Olive Salad from noon until 6:00 p.m.

“Gambino’s found that sales of their olive salad products increased as a result of Miss Bonnie’s recipe. We’re piggy backing on Gambino’s and vice versa. It’s a win-win for both as well as for the customers who love the cheeses and the recipes,” remarked Ron Adleman, Bonnie’s husband.

The story of Miss Bonnie’s Gourmet Cheese Spreads began because “I wasn’t satisfied with the choices offered in the food stores and I began crafting my own Cheese Spreads. My friends and family members encouraged me to market my Cheese Spreads and I decided to give it a try,” said Bonnie Adleman.

The home based start-up business began in a 600 square-feet space on the second floor of their garage in Midlothian, Virginia. Miss Bonnie’s pimento cheese spread was introduced the day before Thanksgiving 2006 in a Kroger store in the Richmond area. The Adlemans had decided to make enough cheese spread for ten (10) cases with one dozen jars in one case. “Almost all ten cases sold that day and Store Manager Milton Foster late that afternoon told me that I had the best first day sales of any vendor he ever had in any of the stores he had managed,” she recalled.

Because the Adlemans didn’t have any cheese spread to restock the store, they postponed Thanksgiving dinner until Friday and on Thanksgiving Day made 12 more cases of cheese spread. By Christmas, Miss Bonnie’s was in two additional Kroger stores in Richmond.

By the end of 2007, they were able to expand distribution to eight Kroger stores by streamlining production. Two of these stores were new. One of the two new stores opening in 2007 was the Midlothian Ivymont Kroger, managed by Ed Southern, who has been in the grocery business for 41 years and manages the largest volume Kroger store in the Mid-Atlantic, having opened three of the new Kroger locations in Richmond during this time.

“I have never, ever, seen a more prolific, customer accepted and demanded, grass roots promoted food item in my entire career,” exclaimed Southern. Being the second Kroger to receive Miss Bonnie’s cheese spread for sale, it was noticed that anyone who tasted this cheese was a fan. My challenge: get it into the mouths of my customers. Using a demo dome daily made this easy and I watched the product grow to the number one position in my specialty cheese commodity.”

In September 2007, the Adleman’s learned that Miss Bonnie’s Gourmet Pimento Cheese Spread was named the “2007 New Product Success Story of the Year” for Kroger Mid-Atlantic.

The release of their second item, Jalapeno Pepper Cheese Spread “took off just like its predecessor,” said Southern.

“I am so proud of Bonnie. She has become a star in this dim economy and everyone that she comes into contact with loves her. The customers gravitate toward her,” Ron Adleman remarked.

“In November 2009, Miss Bonnie’s Gourmet relocated production from their garage to a 13,200 square-feet plant that previously produced smoked fish in Front Royal, Virginia. Only currently using 25 percent of the plant with five acres behind the plant will allow room for expansion. The business currently has eight full-time employees and as the business expands, additional employees will be hired,” he said.

The product line is presently sold in 56 retail grocery locations in Virginia. The products contain “zero gluten fillers, no sugar, no trans fats and no carbs. It’s a blend of naturally aged cheeses – no artificial anything. It contains pure ingredients, is chunky, old fashioned and “diabetic friendly.”

“National rollout is scheduled to begin in mid-February beginning with the completion of distribution of the products to the remaining Kroger stores in the Mid-Atlantic Division. We appreciate all that Kroger has done to help the little guy,” said Ron Adleman.

For recipes and other information, visit www.missbonnies.com

By Susan Ayers

Susan’s Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 7:19 pm

Published in The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
January 29-February 4, 2010 Edition

Roanokers Rally to Assist Earthquake Victims in Haiti

Americans have been highly focused on the massive earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12 and not only is the disaster clearly the top news story, approximately 70 percent say it is the story they are talking about with friends, according to the Pew Research Center, a non-partisan “fact tank” that provides information on issues shaping America and the world.

Here in the Roanoke Valley, we continue to see businesses; non-profit organizations and individuals collectively band together to share their talent, money and time towards helping those in need.

“In just the first week of the Haiti response effort, the American Red Cross spent or committed $34 million and those funds were spent on food and water, relief supplies and logistical and support services in Haiti,” said Roanoke Valley Chapter American Red Cross Public Relations Director Amy Whittaker.

“As of 5:00 p.m. last Thursday, $26 million had been collected from individuals donating by mobile texting and more than 60 percent of the donations have come from online giving. The local chapter is the conduit for financial donation and any monies received by them is forwarded to the national organization,” added Whittaker.

The American Red Cross and its partners are currently providing more than 3 million pre-packaged meals, more than 1 million water purification packets and thousands of jerry cans so people can collect and transport clear drinking water. Aid will continue to be pushed through to Haiti over the next several days and weeks and as the international relief effort grows so will the monetary commitment of the American Red Cross. “Right now, it’s important to get relief there as quickly as possible, but also be thoughtful and responsible in how we spend the funds the American people have entrusted to us,” Whittaker emphasized.

For information on how to donate to the American Red Cross, visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-435-7669.

“Angel Missions Haiti is a Christian non-profit group dedicated to helping families obtaining life saving medical care for children. We are trying to get as many medical teams to Haiti as possible,” said the non-profit organization’s President, Tom Carpenter who manages the non-profit organization from a local perspective.

The teams have been made aware of the situation(s) that they face, including working long hours, sleeping on cots and eating available rations. Under normal conditions, medical personnel would see approximately 100 children daily verses 700-800 children daily. “It’s going to be a difficult trip” and those in the medical group are “true heroes,” he added. Carpenter’s wife and founder of the organization, Vanessa Carpenter, is already in Haiti.

A group of volunteer medical personnel from Roanoke and surrounding areas [Medical Mission to Haiti – Helping Angel Missions Haiti Causes] will be departing for Haiti on or about February 13 and will be working together to provide needed medical services to the children of earthquake ravaged Haiti.

Angel Missions Haiti is an organization consisting of all volunteers, which keeps overhead down and enables 100 percent of money donated to go to Haiti. The non-profit organization has partnered with businesses including General Electric, Abbott Labs, Adobe Software Company and Proctor & Gamble.

To donate money to Angel Missions Haiti, visit www.angelmissionshaiti.org or mail a check to Angel Missions Haiti, 4071 Barley Drive, Salem, VA 24153. The organization can also utilize donations in the form of medical supplies and other items that are listed on its website. A donated semi-truck will be parked at West Salem Baptist Church for the next two weeks. When the trailers are filled, they will be shipped to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to their medical Clinics and orphanages. Donations of the needed items will be accepted Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:00a.m. to 3:00p.m. and Friday from 8:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. For additional information, please contact Beth Richardson at (540) 353-5058.

“WDBJ7 lined up and partnered with other businesses Berglund Automotive, Carilion Clinic, Hometown Bank and Hardees and pledged to match the first $10,000 our community donates to the Salvation Army’s Haitian Disaster Fund and as of close of business last Friday $35,620 not including the $10,000 match, “ said Roanoke’s Salvation Army Development Director Trish Musselwhite.

More than 80,000 pounds of food, water and other emergency supplies have been delivered to The Salvation Army compound with the help of UPS and over 24,000 meal kits with rations sufficient to supply a family for five days have been provided to individuals and families in Haiti. Registration has begun for the estimated 10,000 people who are sheltered in makeshift tents adjacent to the compound in Port-au-Prince. The registration will be helpful, as deliveries of food rations will eventually be tied to numbers of registered people in any given district.

“Because this is for international relief, there are no administrative costs and all donations go for relief in Haiti, “emphasized Musselwhite.

For information on how to donate to the Salvation Army, visit www.salvationarmyroanokeva.org or call (800) SAL-ARMY.

Roanoke’s Commonwealth Catholic Charities anticipates having Haitian children brought in through the Division of Unaccompanied Children Services program and “we are trying to be as prepared as we can trying to get everything as stabilized as we can,” said Adoption Program Manager Marge Savage Thornton.

Children in Haiti previously identified and matched with an adopted family will be coming home more quickly because of the earthquake. Normally, “the process would take more than a year after identification,” remarked Thornton.

For information on how to donate, call (540) 344-5107.

By  Susan Ayers

Susan’s Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 6:54 pm

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
January 22-28, 2010 Edition

Sharebike and Cyclo-Ward Pedal Into New Location

More than 100 biking enthusiasts attended an open house held recently to celebrate the new digs of Sharebike and Cyclo-Ward Bicycle Repair, located at the corner of Jefferson Street and Franklin Road. Cyclo-Ward is the maintenance arm of Sharebike.

The subfreezing temperatures and wind gusts of up to 32 miles per hour didn’t stop The Starbomb and the Star City Alley Cat bicycle groups from braving the elements and holding their individual monthly rides/races, which left from and returned to Sharebike the evening of the open house. The remainder of the crowd chose to stay inside where it was warm.

Launched by Ron McCorkle and James Rosar in 2007, both the non-profit community bicycle program and bicycle repair business were previously housed in a 475 square-foot storefront located in the City Market Building at 32 Market Square. The new and more spacious location includes a social area with a coffee service and large chalk talk black board to encourage shared dialog, an educational center with DVDs, bike-related publications and accessories, yellow sharebikes and a bicycle repair area. Information regarding upcoming bicycle events and the greenways is also available at Sharebike. The new location will begin selling new bikes in March.

Last Spring, Sharebike acquired a pedicab [a three-wheeled vehicle with a seat in front for the driver, handlebars and a cab in back for passengers]. The purpose of the pedicab service is to encourage bicycling and to offer a unique opportunity for visitors from out of town to see the city and have a guided tour by one of Sharebike’s professional drivers.

A small fee is charged to use the yellow share bikes leaving from the main location and the bikes are free to use at three other Roanoke locations that are operated by the individual businesses that Sharebike has formed a partnership with including Blackdog Salvage [located at 902 13th Street, SW], Grandin Gardens [located at 1731 Grandin Road, SW] and Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission [located at 313 Luck Avenue, SW].

Founded by McCorkle, Sharebike has no employees, but rather utilizes the bartering system with many of its volunteers. “One of the volunteers maintains the coffee service in exchange for our new blend of coffee created for Sharebike by Star City Roasters. Eighty percent of what we do is community supported by trade and donation,” said McCorkle.

“Sharebike has tripled in business after two years in all dimensions including size of building and volume and I anticipate at least doubling in volume this year. James Rosar, Owner/Operator of Cyclo-Ward, makes Sharebike possible by providing instruction, maintenance and repair for the bikes,” added McCorkle.
Being an organization created to stimulate, support and link together a wide range of community-based bicycling initiatives to Roanoke, Sharebike restores bikes that have been confiscated by the City and then donates the restored bikes to be used in an after school program at Woodrow Wilson Middle School overseen by Resource Officer, Jimmy Goad.

Sharebike’s hours of operation are currently 11:00a.m.- 8:00p.m. with the exception of Tuesday and Sunday when closed. McCorkle said that plans are underway to open daily in the spring and a Grand Opening is planned for sometime in March.

For additional information, visit www.sharebike.org and www.cycloward.com

By Susan Ayers

Susan’s Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 6:30 pm

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
January 8-14, 2010 Edition

“The Big Read” Offers A Lesson Before Dying

The Big Read Roanoke Valley is an effort to encourage people in this area to make reading a part of their daily lives and to foster a stronger sense of community. As part of The Big Read in Virginia, Roanoke Valley residents will read Ernest Gaines’ A Lesson Before Dying.

The Big Read is actually a nationwide program created by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services and in cooperation with Arts Midwest. The program is designed to revitalize literary reading in America. The Big Read invites communities to read a single book of American literature and to then meet for book discussion groups, panels, lectures, film screenings and other activities in relation to the book.

In 2009, the NEA awarded 269 grants across the country, one that went to the Virginia Foundation Center for the Book to conduct The Big Read in Virginia. The Center located in Charlottesville, furnishes NEA-produced educational and promotional materials to participating localities in Virginia. The Big Read Roanoke Valley is part of The Big Read in Virginia.

Lucy Lee and Ann McCallum, co-chairs of the The Big Read Roanoke Valley are hoping that everyone in the Roanoke Valley [ninth grade and older] will have read the book by March. The board of the Friends of the Roanoke County Library are in charge of The Big Read. Many of the area’s school systems, colleges and area businesses are also participating.

The setting of “A Lesson Before Dying” is on a plantation in Louisiana during the late 1940s and is about a young African American man who is sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit. The novel follows the relationship of him and the plantation’s college-educated teacher and the development of their relationship against a backdrop of racial segregation. It examines how a man should live confronted with what it takes to be a man in the certainty of death and uncertainties of life and examines racism, death, families, injustice and strength.

Upcoming events to complement the book community study.
March 4: Virtuoso banjoist Bela Fleck and an ensemble of all-star African musicians transcend barriers of language and culture with African music at The Jefferson Center 7:30p.m.–9:00p.m.
March 5: an international champion of hip-hop culture will perform with her original songs and spoken-word poetry at The Jefferson Center beginning at 8:00p.m.
March 12: “A Lesson Before Dying” film version will be screened at 7:30p.m. Directed by Joseph Sargent, the film won two Emmy awards when it was released in 1999. In 2000, the film won a Humanitas Prize.

By Susan Ayers

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