Susan M. Ayers / Creative Writer with Flair

October 30, 2009

Susan’s New Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 9:07 pm

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
October 30-November 5, 2009 Edition

County’s Newest Fire Station Goes Online

Roanoke County dedicated its newest fire and rescue station, the first new one in 20 years, on Thursday, October 22. County leaders and firefighter/emergency medical technicians were on hand to cut the ribbon at the North County Fire & Rescue Station, located at 150 Hershberger Road.

Under construction for 16 months and completed within budget, the $4.2 million station features more than 16,000 square feet, with living and office space for three 24/7 shifts, three drive-thru apparatus bays, training and exercise rooms and a back-up emergency generator. The date of dedication coincidentally fell within National Fire Prevention Month.

“This is more than a building of brick and mortar. It is a home to three shifts of Roanoke County firefighters,” said Rick Burch, Jr., Roanoke County Fire & Rescue Chief. “This is a proud moment in my career,” he added.

While the station is not Leadership and Environmentally Designed (LEED) certified, there are several notable features such as the shrubs and plants that are native vegetation requiring minimal or no watering, white concrete on outdoor parking and turn-out areas to limit heat emissions, plus products and materials in building use pre-consumer and post-consumer recycled content.

“This is a model that Roanoke County can use for future fire stations,” remarked Richard Flora, member of the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors [Hollins Magisterial District]. The Board of Supervisors had approved construction of the new station in May 2008, due to the ever-increasing number of phone calls for fire and emergency services in north Roanoke County.

Formerly the busiest station in Roanoke County, the Hollins Fire & Rescue Station will now experience a decreased call volume, which will help to improve response times throughout the system.

The Hollins Station previously received almost one third of the call volume for all fire and rescue calls received by Roanoke County Fire & Rescue. Due to the large call volume in North County, a large number were turned over to other crews, some as far away as the town of Vinton. When that happened, response times to North County increased considerably.

“The addition of this station will provide relief for the rest of Roanoke County,” said Flora, who is up for reelection next week against political newcomer Charlene Waybright. Flora also pointed out that Bonsack is the only station with all volunteers instead of career (paid) personnel. “We will be running a lot of calls to the Bonsack area,” he noted.

Mike Altizer, chairman for the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors, said the new station is a “fabulous facility with a wonderful group of people who staff it.” He remarked that when a call comes in and another station has to provide coverage, it provides a “trickle down effect” as more calls come in.

Adjacent to the Samuel Hershberger House [listed on the National Registry of Historic Places], exterior features of the new station include a stone façade, designed to complement the historic home, which was built in 1797.

By Susan Ayers

October 26, 2009

Susan’s Post

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Breakell Inc.'s new green roof.

Breakell Inc.'s new green roof.

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
October 23-29, 2009 Edition

Breakell Inc. Walks the Talk

Breakell Inc. employees recently began going to work in a “green” building that had been renovated with cutting-edge and smart technology. The changes included conversion to a vegetated or “green” roof system (which keeps buildings cooler), a solar photovoltaic installation, solar panels, a pervious paving system that allows rainwater to seep into the ground, and a computer system to regulate energy.

Located on Patterson Avenue, Breakell Inc. is a general contracting firm that has been involved with several LEED projects. By implementing these renovations, the company also hopes to lead other businesses in the area by example. The firm, now in existence for over 50 years, celebrated its renovated home with a “Sustainability Showcase” last week.

Because of his advocacy of environmental design and development, Stan Breakell, President, was named Business Person of the Year by Blue Ridge Business Journal in 2008. Breakell Inc. also became the first general contractor in the southwest region to have a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional (AP) on staff to meet the demanding requirements for sustainable construction.

There are now seven LEED APs in the company. The certification criterion examines energy, efficiency, building material sources, and a host of other measures. Jeff McClellan, Vice President Operations at Breakell, said the test for certification was “the hardest test” he has ever taken.

The work by Breakell Inc. on Roanoke’s 100-year-old State and City Building earned the U.S. Green Building Council’s (LEED) Certification. In addition to being the first LEED-certified building in the Roanoke or New River valleys, it is also the nation’s first LEED certification for a historic, multi-story conversion. State and City houses a retail business (Frank L. Moose Jewelers), offices, and residential apartments.

In May, the Roanoke Valley Cool Cities Coalition recognized the general contractor firm as a leader in the sustainable business practices movement by having the greatest impact toward reducing greenhouse emissions, the principal cause of global climate change. At the same time, Stan Breakell was hailed for founding Roanoke’s Clean and Green Business Coalition, an effort to encourage companies to consider how to adapt and adjust operations, to emphasize conservation, recycling, energy efficiency, monitoring and reduction of green house gas emissions and other green practices.

In July, Breakell Inc. was presented with the Kroger Award of Excellence by The Clean Valley Council, the highest award given by the council. The recipient is chosen as a model for the community in the areas of recycling and waste management.

Breakell’s support for sustainability extends to the parking lot outside where several Toyota Prius hybrids can be found. One features a network of batteries that Blacksburg’s VPT Energy Systems developed, to boost the car’s gas fuel efficiency to 135 miles per gallon.

The battery-packed car can be plugged in at work; a computer in the building charges the car during off-peak hours when less electricity is in use. Later in the day, energy can be retrieved from where it is stored in the battery packs.

True to the mantra, “Taking the Lead,” Breakell Inc. embraces green building techniques through a commitment to sustainable business practices. At the showcase, Stan Breakell acknowledged that “taking the first step is hard,” but he added, “once that step has been taken, it becomes easier.”

By: Susan Ayers

October 25, 2009

Susan’s Post

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The Zac Brown Band brought their high energy "chicken fried" music to Salem.

The Zac Brown Band brought their high energy "chicken fried" music to Salem.

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
October 16-22, 2009

Zac Brown Band “Breaks Southern Ground ” in Salem

The “Breaking Southern Ground Tour” featuring the Zac Brown Band (ZBB) hit the stage with a hard-rocking show and candid storytelling that  captivated a nearly sell-out crowd recently at the Salem Civic Center.  Along with the six-member band’s high energy and talented musicianship, there was another reason for the bandleader’s enthusiasm.  

Brown’s wife gave birth to their third daughter [on September 9], prior to the beginning of the tour.  On that  same date  the Georgia-based group was nominated for Best New Artist, Best Vocal Group, Best Single, and Song of the Year.  Winners will be announced at the Country Music Association (CMA) ceremony in Nashville, Tennessee on November 11.

 “Chicken Fried,” has sold more than a million copies to date, hit number one on Billboard’s Hot Country chart for two consecutive weeks and debuted as the second most downloaded single on iTunes.  The toe-tapping ditty that has fueled the group’s success was very well received by the audience in Salem.  Most recently, the band’s major-label debut album, “The Foundation,” was certified platinum in August for shipment of at least one million copies.

Touring with the Zac Brown Band and kicking off the concert in Salem was Southern Ground - Nic Cowan, Levi Lowery and Sonia Leigh.  ZBB then took to the stage with a dynamic performance that incorporated both an eclectic and homegrown approach.

“Toes,” an ode of tropical escapism is reminiscent of Jimmy Buffet’s music about beach life.  “Different Kind of Fine,” written by Brown, Wyatt Durrette, and Stokes Nielson was a tribute to lust.  “Junkyard” was all about the beautiful house that Brown grew up in - that wasn’t full of love.  Toward the end of the performance Southern Ground musicians joined ZBB on stage.   Highlights also included “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” and “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” 

 In a nod to clever marketing, Brown announced that a DVD of the evening’s performance would be available 30 minutes following the show and said  he would stay as late as needed to personally autograph the DVD or his CD’s.

The Dahlonega, Georgia native is a former restaurant owner and chef   known for his homemade special sauces and Southern cooking.   Brown has been developing a new meat sauce line to be used for marinating pork or chicken that will be available  soon.

He is also developing a charitable foundation that will run a children’s camp.  Despite his many interests and family responsibilities, Zac Brown called his foundation and camp his life’s work.   

In a show of loyalty to his roots, Brown also announced during the concert that he and his band would be taking a break from their tour to play a benefit show on October 30 in Georgia, to help revive a historical theater in Georgia.  All proceeds will go to rebuild the Georgia Theatre there that was lost in a fire.  “My band and other bands have come up playing there,” noted Brown.  “We want to make sure that it gets enough funding so that it can be rebuilt.”

 Upcoming events at the Salem Civic Center:  Women’s Health Beauty Life Expo on October 16-17, USSBA Band Competition on October 31, the Roanoke Symphony Pops with Natalie Cole on November 5, Hokie Wrestling Tournament on November 8, Old Crow Medicine Show on November 11, Roanoke Valley Comicon on November 14,  Gem and Mineral Show on November 27-29.

By  Susan Ayers

 

 

 

 

 

Susan’s Post

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Actor-musician drew more than 300 people to the Roanoke City main branch for his performance.

Actor-musician Ronny Cox drew more than 300 people to the Roanoke City main branch for his performance.

 

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
October2-8, 2009 Edition

Movie Actor Turned-Troubadour Makes Roanoke Appearance

Actor-musician Ronny Cox drew more than 300 people to the Roanoke City main branch library for his performance.
Ronny Cox’s recent three-man band performance at the Roanoke Main Library was moved from the Brady Room Patio to the mezzanine due to rain, but the weather did not adversely affect turnout (every seat was occupied) or dampen the spirits of those attending. Cox’s charisma and charm, coupled with his skilled storytelling as he introduced each song, brought about a strong connection with the audience.

Touring with the veteran actor (well known for the Beverly Hills Cop movies) were David Ferguson and Radoslare Lorkovik. The trio showcased an eclectic mix of folk, country, jazz, and blues that brought out toe-tapping, and hand-clapping, evoking audience responses such as “Crank it up Ronnie!” and sing-a-longs. A Roanoke-based artist known best as Toobz created the stage backdrop for the show, representative of some of the acting roles that Cox has played.

Cox said that he loves music more than acting because with acting there is “an imaginary fourth wall. The thing that gives me the most pleasure is the opportunity of sharing music with other people. Half the fun is to see how a song affects someone and how their reaction affects me. The audience’s reaction gives me direction.”

Preferring to perform in smaller venues, Cox likes for his audience to be as close as possible and for the lights to be turned up. The goal “is to engage the audience” in every performance, Cox stressed. During intermission, he posed for pictures, chatted amiably with those in attendance, and signed CD’s.

The line-up of tunes performed included material from his latest CD, “Songs…With Repercussions,” which recently was named number one on the Folk DJ’s play list. The songs concern the absence of Mary, his wife, who passed away after a bout with cancer in 2006. The love of his life and his soul mate of 45 years was “the most intelligent and well-educated woman that I have ever known — and she was the only woman that I ever dated,” said Cox.

He went on to add, “Mary read at least five books every week and she was so much fun to be with. She went to every single movie shooting and every performance that I did and she never complained. She would carefully search the audience for a face who had not previously seen the show and make a point to sit beside of that person to gain a fresh perspective through that individual’s viewpoint. Mary thought that I was the ‘cat’s meow’ and her support of me was the greatest validation I ever had.”

The couple have two sons and were a close-knit family. “We had a wonderful rich home life that had nothing to do with the Hollywood lifestyle. We focused on each other and family.”

While the world has seen Ronny Cox evolve over the last ten years from a Hollywood actor to singer, ironically it was his talent as a guitar-picking musician that provided him with the opportunity to make his acting debut in the 1972 box-office hit “Deliverance.” He worked alongside Burt Reynolds, and in one scene, leaned against an old station wagon and played “Dueling Banjos” with the character Lonnie (Billy Redden).

He grew up near Clovis, New Mexico, where a major recording studio was located during his high school and college years. “I was at the recording studio when several hits were recorded, including when Buddy Holly recorded the song ‘Peggy Sue,’” said Cox, who worked his way through college with a band.

In 1984, Cox appeared in his first blockbuster, “Beverly Hills Cop,” playing the role of a play-by-the-book California Police Lieutenant Andrew Bogomil, squaring off against Eddie Murphy, a free wheeling detective from Detroit. Cox played the same role in the sequel to “Beverly Hills Cop.” Other movies included “RoboCop,” “Total Recall,” “Stargate SG-1” and “Perfect Murder, Perfect Town.”

Cox also played roles on television shows including “Apple’s Way,” “St. Elsewhere,” “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” “Chain of Command” and “Desperate Housewives.” While Cox continues to have opportunities for acting roles, his transition from being primarily an actor to musician has come full circle.

• There are numerous upcoming events also scheduled at the Roanoke City Main Library (on Jefferson Street) in October. Lunchtime “Music on the Patio” from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. will feature Billy Joe Chambers and Al Coffey on October 8, Bob Hale on October 15, and Grace Note on October 22.

• On October 15, John Anderson will be speaking at 6 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. about his book, “Stand by Her: A Breast Cancer Guide for Men,” and he will be signing books afterward. (Note: Anderson’s Today Show appearance, mentioned in a Star-Sentinel story last week, has been moved to October 8.) On October 20, Jess Gearing will be speaking 6 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. on, “Alternative Thanksgiving: Cooking for Vegans and Gluten-Free Eaters.” For more details about other events at Roanoke City libraries, visit roanokeva.gov/library and click on “The Spot Newsletter,” or call (540) 853-1057.

By Susan Ayers

Susan’s Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 7:52 pm

 

Lesley Owens, State Farm Agent

Lesley Owens, State Farm Agent

 

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
June 12-18, 2009 Edition

What If  “The Big One”  Hits?

The Roanoke Valley was shaken recently by an earthquake – yes, an earthquake – that rattled homes from Vinton to Salem. Julie Dutton, a geophysicist at the National Earthquake Information Center in Golden, Colorado, said the epicenter of the quake was “in the Cave Spring area near Garst Mill Road, with a reported magnitude of 3.0.”

In Salem’s Hidden Valley neighborhood, a resident was awakened after 4:00 a.m. by “deep reverberating sounds.” Her bed was “moving back and forth and it felt like the entire house was shaking.” This went on for several seconds and the most frightening part for her was “not knowing what was going on,” having been awakened suddenly out of a “deep sleep,” she remarked. Another resident in The Gardens subdivision off Cotton Hill Road ran outside, hearing a “boom” and thinking a plane might have gone down.

While there were no reports of injury or property damage from the recent earthquake, homeowners might want to prepare for a bigger one. Lesley Owens, a State Farm Agent in the Roanoke Valley, said that to be insured for such damages [with State Farm] occurring from an earthquake, homeowners would need to have an endorsement for earthquake coverage, along with their standard policy.

The additional coverage generally ranges from $90 to $150 annually, depending on factors like the type of home and its location. If the homeowner looks at the additional expense from a weekly standpoint, the cost generally ranges from $1.73 to $2.88.

Regardless of what insurance company homeowners have their policy with, it’s a good idea for them to contact an agent and ask for a review to ensure that they have adequate coverage for earthquake or other forms of destruction. “A little advance planning would help a family weather such a disaster a little more safely and securely,” said Owens.

State Farm has 37,340 homeowners with policies in Roanoke and surrounding areas; of those only 427 (only 1.14%) have their homes and contents protected by an earthquake endorsement, along with their standard homeowner policy. Owens said that in spite of the the recent tremors, State Farm has not seen an increase in the number of homeowners who have earthquake coverage.

While there is no crystal ball to predict when a major earthquake will occur in this area in the future, history provides clues. Since February 1774, there have been more than 20 major earthquakes in Virginia, including one with a magnitude of 4.3, centered at Radford on May 3, 1897, which reportedly did extensive damage to many chimneys and walls throughout Southwest Virginia. Felt as far south as Winston-Salem, North Carolina, this was a prelude to the earthquake on May 31, 1897, the most intense and widespread earthquake in Virginia in historical times – and the second largest earthquake in the eastern United States over the last 200 years.

It covered an area of 280,000 square miles and was most severely felt in Giles County, where springs ceased to flow, a train was derailed, walls of brick homes were cracked, and chimneys were badly damaged. Aftershocks continued through June 6, 1897 and the estimated magnitude was 5.8-5.9.

If Virginia today experienced an earthquake of such magnitude, the consequences could be considerably more serious because of tall buildings and the close housing typical in subdivisions.

Professors James Martin and Martin Chapman founded the Earthquake Engineering Center for the Southeastern U.S. (ECSUS) at Virginia Tech in January 2000. Their mission is to prepare for likely seismic events and to reduce severe earthquake damage in the Southeast, by developing and disseminating critical seismic data. Despite the potential for major earthquakes in the future, there had been minimal studies or emergency response plans devised.

Is your family prepared if an earthquake of a greater magnitude hits our area? Perhaps an earthquake rider on a homeowner’s policy is something worth considering.

By Susan Ayers

Susan’s Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 7:01 pm

 

Kagey in an office she will soon vacate.

Kagey in an office she will soon vacate.

 

 

 

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel

June 12-18, 2009 Edition

Deedie Kagey Retires with Many Accomplishments in 41 Years

Shortly after the final bell of this school year, Dr. Deedie Kagey will end a 41-year career as a teacher and administrator, the last 10 spent as Bonsack Elementary School’s principal.

“I agonized for three months before making a definite decision to retire,” said Kagey.

Kagey taught for 20 years prior to moving into administration as Assistant Principal at Penn Forest Elementary in 1988. She was promoted to principal at Roland E. Cook Elementary in 1994. She is the only elementary school principal in Roanoke County holding a Doctorate Degree and could have advanced to a higher position, but her passion remained with children at the elementary school level.

In 1998, Kagey was approached by the central office, which offered two opportunities – Director of Personnel, or serving Bonsack Elementary as its first principal. Her choice was to be a part of opening Roanoke County’s newest elementary school in 1999.

Bonsack Elementary had a student population of 366 when its doors originally opened in August 1999. Due to population growth, a new addition was added in 2006. The current student population is 474.

Under Kagey’s leadership, GreatSchools recognized Bonsack Elementary with a distinguished rating of 8 out of 10 for 2008. The school was among the few public schools in Virginia to receive the distinguished rating. GreatSchool ratings provide an overview of a school’s test performance by comparing the school’s standardized test results to other schools in the state.

In addition to her responsibilities as a teacher and an administrator, over the years Kagey often had ongoing projects that occupied many of her evenings, weekends, and vacations.

The historian in Kagey has a special interest in the history of Bonsack. Her research indicated that the home she purchased and moved into in 1975 had been constructed in 1836 by the Stoner (Steiner) family of German-Swiss origin, which emigrated to Bonsack from Frederick County, Maryland in the late 1700’s. The Stoners acquired most of the land comprising Bonsack and were a driving force in the growth of the area. The Cook family purchased and occupied the home for 103 years (1872-1975).

Kagey said the “house required considerable renovation.” The home is one of the oldest remaining residences in the Roanoke area.

In 1981, while teaching at Hardy Road (now W.E. Cundiff) Elementary, Kagey earned her M.A.L.S. (Master of Arts in Liberal Studies – Social Science Concentration). That

same year she finished writing, “Community at the Crossroads: A Study of the Village of Bonsack of the Roanoke Valley.” The book was also used to complete the requirements of her master’s degree at Hollins College and was published in 1983.

Kagey was asked in the summer of 1986 by Roanoke County’s Sesquicentennial Committee to consider writing a book on the history of the county, to memorialize its 150th anniversary in 1988. At the time, she was still teaching and working on her doctoral program. Kagey made the decision to suspend working on her doctoral program to write the book.

“It took a lot of digging,” to find much of the historical information that was needed to write the book, recalls Kagey. Some of it was located in the National Archives; it took about six weeks to write each chapter. Roanoke County Schools gave her two semesters off, and even then she spent two of her summers working on the book, which was entitled, “When Past is Prologue: A History of Roanoke County.” It was published in 1988. Kagey has also given historical lectures over the past 20 years.

Kagey earned her C.A.G.S. (Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies), Educational Administration in 1990. She then completed her doctoral thesis, “A Case Study of Education in Virginia: The Roanoke County Public School System, 1870-1920,”

She received her Ed.D. in Educational Administration & Supervision from Virginia Tech in 1991. At the time Kagey was serving as Assistant Principal at Penn Forest Elementary.

Professional and civic involvement over the years in more than 20 organizations includes the Roanoke Valley Preservation Foundation (Past President and Past Education Chair), the Historical Resources Advisory Committee for Roanoke County, the Bonsack Ruritan Club (1988-present), and the Smart Growth Task Force for Roanoke County, (2004-2005).

Kagey also has received at least ten awards and honors, including Who’s Who Among Top Executives, the PTA President’s Honor Award on two separate occasions and the Roanoke Valley Preservation Foundation Individual Education Award.

With all of Kagey’s accomplishments, it’s always been “about the kids.” She thinks it is important for the citizens, especially children, to be knowledgeable about local history and to be proud of the area where they live.

Kagey now looks forward to spending more time with Monty, her husband of three years. Her daughter, married with two children, lives in Sydney Australia North Shore and Kagey hopes to spend a month visiting them. As the need arises, she will be filling in for administrators throughout Roanoke County. Kagey is interested in some part-time teaching, primarily in administration and educational leadership programs. Updating “Community at the Crossroads” is also on her “to do” list.

Kagey’s official retirement date is June 30. Her successor is Melissa Jones, who has served as principal at Fort Lewis Elementary School for the last two years.

Having worked in the Roanoke County school system for 16 years, Jones began her career as an instructional assistant at Back Creek Elementary. She then accepted a teaching position at Green Valley Elementary and later transferred to W.E. Cundiff, working as a teacher and then as Assistant Principal. A Roanoke native, Jones graduated from Roanoke College and obtained her Masters Degree from the University of Virginia.

Jones said that while she has “mixed emotions” about leaving Fort Lewis Elementary, she is “very happy and excited” about having been given this opportunity, which is close to her home. Her official start date as Principal at Bonsack Elementary will be July 8.

“I will miss the children the most,” said Kagey, just weeks before her retirement.

By  Susan Ayers

Susan’s Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 5:54 pm
 

 

 

Opening night attendees take in the exhibit.

Opening night attendees take in the exhibit.

 

 

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel

September 4-10, 2009 Edition

 “Synchronicity” Exhibit at The Water Heater

The Synchronicity exhibition opening for artists Bill (Billy Bob) Beamer and Pamela Rhodes was recently held at The Water Heater, nestled in the neighborhood of Old Southwest at 813 5th Street in Roanoke. Synchronicity in this case explores the intersection of the two artists’ work with the intent to come together in a meaningful manner and to reveal surprise, investigation, and wit.

Beamer is a self-taught artist who retired from Virginia’s Department of Social Services after 30-plus years. In the 1990’s he had grown increasingly ill and was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue immune deficiency syndrome. It was through biofeedback that he was able to “induce a trance-like state” by the act of repetitive drawing. These drawings or “messages” are approximately the size of a standard sticky note. Beamer says that it is the process of creating the ink or pencil messages and the tiny interwoven lines that causes the trance-like state.

Referring to the value of art to those with chronic pain, Beamer (a distant relative to Virginia Tech’s Frank Beamer) said psychologists told him that in addition to creating a distraction, the alpha waves in the brain are affected, thereby creating an alert but relaxed state, which reduces the pain. “Thanks to art, these illnesses don’t have me [down],” added Beamer.

He has exhibited in over 50 solo, juried/curated, and invitational art shows. Beamer’s works can be found in numerous public and private collections, including the Governor’s Mansion in Virginia and the Virginia Fine Arts Center for the New River Valley. He also serves as a volunteer and teaches art classes at the Roanoke Rescue Mission, as a way to help people there deal with the pain in their lives. Beamer and Rhodes teach an orientation for his class, a launching pad for those that want to try new things.

Pamela Rhodes says Synchronicity derives from the fact that both she and Beamer are Christians, “and that they both have a heart to help others.” Both enjoy contemporary, eclectic, and non-traditional art. Rhodes’ art is on small forms and her works, primarily watercolors, are portable to doctors’ offices and wherever else she goes. Her background includes dancing, primarily classical ballet. She taught at Floyd Ward School of Dance in the early 80’s and returned in the late 90’s to dance with the Roanoke Ballet Theatre.

While she has been drawing and painting since childhood, Rhodes returned to school at age 45 and graduated from Hollins University in May 2002, with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Studio Arts.

Rhodes experienced a life-changing event when her only sibling died in June 2002 which “brought me to a screeching halt,” she noted. Both she and Beamer “have used our art as a release from pain.” After her brother’s death, she started doing smaller artwork patterned after her renditions of models with bigger eyes and “funkier” feet. She went to work at the Roanoke Rescue Mission in February 2003 as Coordinator of the Arts Studio, where she also teaches. The Roanoke Rescue Mission has “been a good place to seek restoration and to give back.”

Her “RutheBeth” character, who is described as ageless, has been a place to channel her pain, both physically and emotionally. Rhodes said the concept came into her life “at a time when she needed to be rescued.” Ruthebeth “began life as a spindly little creature dunking around with designer shoes, with wild hair, wearing haute’ couture or a spunky dancer with the best tutu and worst hair.”

The more she drew her, the more personal it became. Ruthebeth is a “wonderful amalgam of the three women in my life that have informed and helped to form the woman I have become,” said Rhodes. “Ruth, my mom…E is my mom’s sister and my true second mother [both strong women and caregivers said Rhodes], and Beth, my daughter, perhaps the most important of the three. You could always tell what the three [of them] were thinking by looking at their eyes.”

Synchronicity will be on exhibit at The Water Heater through September 19. For additional information or to make an appointment to view the artwork, contact Beth Deel at (540) 314-0994, or see The Water Heater Facebook page.

By  Susan Ayers

October 17, 2009

Susan’s Post

Filed under: Bonsack and Botetourt Growth,General,My Work — Tags: — susanmayers @ 8:41 pm

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
May 8-14, 2009 Edition

Where’s the Growth in the Valley?
Look at Bonsack, Botetourt

Despite the current complex economic challenges, both the Bonsack area of north Roanoke County and the suburbs of southern Botetourt County continue to experience growth – retail, residential and industrial. The largest Kroger in Virginia west of Richmond opened its doors as the first retailer to occupy Kroger Square at Bonsack (US 460) in July of last year. The store features 84,000 sq.ft., with a sushi station, drive-through pharmacy and a fuel center in front of the store.

The $20 million plus development at Kroger Square at Bonsack also includes 21,000 square feet of retail space for shops, restaurants, and out-parcels. Several of those spaces have been rented by tenants including: Q Nails, Ntelos, a state ABC store, Subway, Great Clips, Café Asia, and Anytime Fitness.

Café Asia is an eatery with a menu including Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Japanese dishes including sushi. Anytime Fitness is a co-ed adult only (age 18 and over) fitness facility with 24-hour access. Opening last January, membership is currently at 305 members. Owners Dwight and Shirley Ward said that their business is family run; Dwight Ward is a certified personal trainer and their sons help out. Members can use their key fob to access approximately 1,000 other clubs throughout the United States.

According to leasing agent Millie Moore, Dollar City Plus will be opening July 1. Plans are also in the works for Valley Bank to build its ninth branch at Kroger Square.

There has been industrial growth as well. Arkay Packaging Corporation, located in East Park Commerce Center Facility near Bonsack, has completed its $11 million expansion. The third-generation, family-owned business provides folding cartons to some of the most recognized companies in the world, including cosmetic, beauty aids, fragrance and pharmaceutical industries. The company’s major customers have included Chanel, Estée Lauder, Mary Kay, and Procter & Gamble.

Eye Care & Surgery and Blue Ridge Optical are relocating from their Troutville office to 33 British Woods Drive, which is located across from Carilion Botetourt Athletic Club on Alternate Rte 220, just across the line from Botetourt and Roanoke County. The relocation includes an expansion to a new six-exam room facility and an additional doctor will be joining the practice. Eye Care & Surgery will begin seeing patients at the new location on June 1, and a grand opening is planned for June 13.
They’re even coming to Botetourt from some notable vacation spots: Owner/Operator, Sean Geoghegan has opened Head to Toe Massage inside the Botetourt Athletic Club off of US 220 Alt. South, at 105 Summerfield Court. He started his career at The Sanderling Resort & Spa on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, which was voted the 38th Top Resort in the Mainland of the United States by readers of Conde Nast Travel. A nationally Certified Massage Therapist with a license from the Board of Nursing in Virginia and an active member of the American Massage Therapist Association (AMTA), Geoghegan began his practice in 2002. He relocated to Roanoke in 2006. Head to Toe Massage specializes in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Stone and Prenatal massage. Free child care, a therapy pool, a steam room and access to the Botetourt Athletic Club are included with services.
Izumi Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar opened in March; owner Michael Guo set up shop in a building that previously was occupied by The Fried Pickle on Alternate Rt 220 adjacent to Down Home Pharmacy.

Still under construction, Daleville Towne Center will be Botetourt’s largest commercial development, according to David Moorman, Deputy County Administrator for Botetourt County. It is a commercial/residential mixed-use community applying “smart-growth” strategies to decrease reliance on vehicular transportation and to create a strong sense of place and community.

Karen Waldron, CEO at Fralin & Waldron, said it is anticipated that the first office/retail building at Daleville Towne Center (DTC) will be completed in time for Fralin & Waldron to relocate its headquarters from Roanoke into the second floor of the 30,000 square feet building, located at the corner of US 220 and Glebe Road, in July.

Fralin & Waldron already has two prospective tenants for the first floor of the building. While the project has been delayed somewhat by the economy, Waldron said, “it really has been a mixed blessing,” because the additional time has allowed them to better evaluate designs.

Daleville Town Center is a traditional neighborhood district (TND), and is the first TND in Southwestern Virginia. A TND is a mixed-use development that combines residential, business, retail, civic and other uses in order to create a pedestrian-friendly, town-like atmosphere. With a village of shops and restaurants and an expansive park space at its center, the property will feature 300 residences, including multi-family complexes and up to 400,000 square feet of commercial space.

The Four-Square Model Home located on Old Catawba Road in Daleville is under construction and will be completed within two months. Four additional designs to be offered for residential properties within the complex. (see dalevilletownecenter.com).

Across US 220 from Daleville Town Center is the new Orchard Marketplace development, where a Food Lion and Carilion’s new medical clinic and imaging center will be locating. A dentist office also plans to locate there and other out-parcels remain.

Bank of Fincastle Vice President, Claire Ferguson said the bank has constructed a building beside its Daleville Branch Bank, and the 6,000-square-foot two-story structure was fully rented before construction began. Tenants include John Alderson Insurance Agency, ReMax Allstars, and Colonial Title.

There are new places to eat in the area, which often attracts Roanokers looking perhaps for a new home or a less harried way of life. After renovations, Blue Collar Joe’s opened in October, located in what was formerly a Citgo Station on US 220 in Daleville. This eatery is primarily carry out and the menu items available include donuts, coffee, sandwiches, ice cream, and smoothies.

Plans are still in the works to open Teaberry’s Restaurant in an older home dating back to 1842 in Daleville. It is located north of Kroger and across the street from the proposed development called “The Shops at Cedar Ridge.” The Teaberry’s Restaurant in Cloverdale was closed last spring and owner Lisa Janney Is currently operating Teaberry’s Café at 129 E. Cleveland Avenue in Vinton. Zoning issues and conditions related to an older structure must be worked out first.

Janney’s well known catering operation is also located at the Vinton location. Her catering operation is also located at the Vinton location. She plans to keep that shop open even after the Teaberry’s Restaurant in Daleville opens. Janney anticipates the Daleville location to have a maximum seating capacity of 118, with seven distinct dining areas and a full bar.

Development plans were submitted in September 2008 for The Shops at Cedar Ridge to be located at 1176 Roanoke Road in Daleville. The plans include 10,000 square feet composed of ten (10) retail shops to be located near Bellacino’s and construction is dependent upon Botetourt Properties, LLC’s success at pre-leasing.

The Pomegranate opened in November at the old wine warehouse on Stoney Battery Road off US 11 and southeast of the Bank of Botetourt. Patrons have the opportunity to order from a tapas menu, along with a dinner menu, and the restaurant has a wine bar and wine lounge. For more specifics, visit pomegranateva.com or call 966-6052.

Located at 3200 Lee Highway South across from Cracker Barrel, the new Holiday Inn Express opened in April.

Dan Mays and his twin brother John expanded their business, Twin City Outfitters, in 2004 by purchasing James River Basin Canoe Livery and relocating the business from Rockbridge County to 653 Lowe Street in Buchanan. They are in the process of renovations and will be opening a 5-room inn in downtown Buchanan in June.

Located one block from the canoe livery, each room will have a different theme and the rack room per night will range from $79-$99 per night depending on the room and season. Dan Mays commented that the inn will be a “nice perk” for tourists who want to do a canoe trip on the Maury or the Upper James Rivers. For more specifics, call (540) 261-7334.

Located at 8505 Roanoke Road, Fincastle, a new Dollar General Store opened in Fincastle in September and is located near the Fincastle Fire Department and Botetourt Mulch & Landscaping.

Industrial business growth: According to David Moorman, Lite-Steel Technologies America (profiled previously in the Star-Sentinel) purchased an existing steel manufacturing facility, modernized it, installed a rail spur, and launched its product at a trade show in Las Vegas in January. It began producing product in March. The Australian manufacturer produces lightweight steel beams for the residential and light commercial construction markets. Their location in Troutville is the company’s first North American manufacturing location. To date, the company has created 21 jobs toward its target of 55 and has exceeded its investment target.

On May 26, the Board of Supervisors will consider a rezoning on US 220 Alternate for a new Southern States store to be located in Troutville. If approved, this would be an expansion for the current Southern States store located in downtown Troutville, which sells primarily to large farm operations. The new Southern States store would be geared more toward the suburban farmer.

Previously located in Roanoke, Southeastern Freight built a new terminal in Simmons Industrial Park on Simmons Drive last year in Cloverdale. Southeastern Freight has been in business for 65 years. The terminal serves the Roanoke, Lynchburg, and Wytheville areas. Where’s the growth in the valley? Just look towards Bonsack and Botetourt.

By: Susan Ayers

Susan’s Post

Filed under: Basketball,General,My Work,Sports,Sports Psychology — Tags: — susanmayers @ 7:27 pm

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
April 3, 2009 Edition

March Madness and the Usage of Sports Psychology

With the NCAA College Basketball Tournament well underway and the “March Madness” that goes along with it, we sometimes watch even the star players struggle with performance pressure and tension. Such challenges can be caused by several factors including inflated expectations, fear of failure, unhealthy attitude toward their competition, and not wanting to let their coach, team, and fans down. In so doing, we as fans tend to focus more on the physical part of the game and skill sets rather than to also consider the psychological well-being of the athletes.

Just in recent years have sport psychologists been as recognized and utilized in assisting athletes and their coaches in improving performance during competitive situations. Sports Psychologists can be invaluable to athletes who are trying to improve their performance, injured athletes looking to get back into the game with confidence, and individuals needing assistance to overcome the pressure of the competition. While recognition is important, a significant amount of recognition within a short period of time can result in star athletes feeling added pressure to continue performing at a certain level and to begin not playing as well because of inability to focus and concentrate.

An effective Sports Psychologist can make the difference in the results of a high-profile tournament game. One such example occurred last year when the Duke Blue Devils were handed their worst loss by Dr. Joel Fish, Sports Psychologist and the Clemson Tigers. Fish gave the Clemson squad a pre-game speech about believing they were an elite team, and they immediately went out and played like one. Duke had previously won 22 straight games over Clemson, but it was not to happen again that night for the Blue Devils. Clemson was relentless with its full court pressure and Duke was forced into 30.8 shooting from the floor and committed 16 turnovers. The 30.8 shooting was a season-low for Duke. No. 10 Clemson beat No. 3 Duke 74-47. Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski stated, “It was 40 minutes of them dominating. They just kicked our butts”. This was the worst loss for the Blue Devils since the 1990 NCAA title game when they lost to UNLV, 103-73.

Another sports psychologist, Dr. Jerry Lynch, over the years has worked with professional, collegiate, and high school teams in ALL SPORTS. Over the years, he has been intimately connected with teams including Duke, Maryland, Washington, and Stanford as well as teams internationally. He has been a close part of 40 Final Four teams with 25 teams going on to win the National Championship. Basically, Dr. Lynch focuses on three issues, which are expectation, fear of failure, and competition. Interestingly, as to competition, he teaches his clients that champions view competitors as help partners who bring out their best. He points out that the Latin root for the word competition means “to seek together” and to not feel pressure and stress because of an opponent. Rather, he advises to view them as tools to help create the best in you because they push you to discover things about yourself that you never knew existed.

By Susan Ayers

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