Susan M. Ayers / Creative Writer with Flair

February 5, 2010

Susan’s New Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 4:32 pm

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
January 1-7, 2010 Edition

Annual Writers Conference to Convene At Hollins

The third annual Roanoke Regional Writers Conference is scheduled for January 22-23 at Hollins University.

Founded and organized by Valley Business FRONT Co-Founder and Editor Dan Smith, the conference opens Friday evening with a wine reception and introduction of teaching staff and speakers for the evening, Sara Elizabeth Timmins and Janis Jaquith.

Timmons, a filmmaker most recently from Los Angeles, will speak on “Telling the Story.” She has produced more than a dozen movies helping playwrights, screenwriters, writers, musicians and choreographers translate their vision to the screen.

Jaquith’s commentaries have been heard on the public radio show Marketplace, on National Public Radio’s (NBR) Day to Day and on NBR station WVTF. Having won a Virginia Press Association (VPA) award for editorial writing, she is a columnist and author.

The conference on Saturday is geared toward vocational and avocational writers who have the desire to become better at their craft and to network with other writers from the region. The 24 classes and two round-table discussions will be on topics including writing and social media, translating your work to film/stage, media writing, freelance writing and the law, freelance writing in this market, the short personal essay, and writing local history among others.

Among those teaching classes will be John Anderson, author of the recently published book, “Stand by Her: A Breast Cancer Guide for Men.” Anderson was prompted to write the book after his wife, sister, mother and mother’s best friend were diagnosed with breast cancer and his close encounters with the disease. He has since appeared on national television and has been asked by numerous publications to author articles on the same subject.

Other presenters include Blue Ridge Country editor Cara Modisett, Leisure Publishing Editor in Chief, Kurt Rheinheimer, two-time Pulitzer Prize nominee Rex Bowman, and The Roanoke Star-Sentinel Editor Gene Marrano, among others.

The cost of the conference is $50 per person and includes the reception, coffee all day Saturday and lunch.

For additional information regarding the conference schedule and to register, visit http://www.hollins.edu/news-events/writers/writers.htm.

By Susan Ayers

Susan’s New Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 3:59 pm

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
January 1-7, 2010 Edition

Variety of Events Set for New Years in Roanoke

From New Year’s Eve Bouncy Ball Drop, Enchanted Eve and The New Year’s Blast to parties galore at local restaurants and hotels, there is something for everyone who wants to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the Roanoke Valley.

At the second annual “New Year’s Eve Bouncy Ball Drop,” kids of all ages will gather in the atrium of Center in the Square, home to the Science Museum of Western Virginia, before noon for the countdown. More than 11,000 bouncy balls were dropped last year.

Because bouncy balls will be given out on a first-come first-served basis, it is recommended that participants arrive by 10:30a.m. At noon, everyone will drop their bouncy balls from various levels to the first floor of the atrium.

The event is free. For additional information, visit www.smwv.org or call (540) 342-5710.

The 6th annual “Enchanted Eve” is Roanoke County’s alcohol-free community inspired New Year’s Eve celebration held in Downtown Vinton from 6:00p.m. to 12:00a.m.

Tourism and Event Coordinator for Roanoke County Department of Parks and Recreation Wendi Schultz said, “Travel Through Time is this year’s theme that will magically transport participants through ten (10) decades of fun and merriment through numerous events and entertainment venues in buildings and public spaces all along Washington Avenue. There will be special attractions, games, music, parades, food, live entertainment and fireworks at midnight”

Schultz emphasized, “the event will be held regardless of the weather because most of the activities are held indoors.” She added that she has a “fabulous large group of volunteers” including16 community volunteers who serve on the committee that begins planning the annual event every January, an additional 250 volunteers who help in the preparation for the event and at the event and students from the Key Club at Lord Botetourt High School and JRTC students at William Byrd High School who help with security and handling the buttons for admission.

Admission fee in advance is $7 (ages 3-12 $3). Tickets may be purchased in advance at numerous locations including area Kroger stores and some of the banks located in Vinton. Tickets not purchased in advance will cost an additional $2. Attendance of 3,000-5,000 is anticipated.

For additional information, visit www.roanokecountyva.gov or call (540) 387-6078, extension 251.

Presented by Sponsor Hounds, LLC, Roanoke’s New Year’s Eve Blast returns for its 3rd year. The event includes two stages of live music. On the opening stage will be “Center Hill,” with a mix of 80s, rock hits and new music. “80’z Enuff” will be playing hits from the 80s and will ring in the New Year with the annual dropping of the Roanoke Star.

“The star drop is bigger than the ball drop in New York City,” enthused Elliot Broyles, Organizer at Sponsor Hounds. Retired engineer Gary Greer built the seven-foot Mill Mountain Star replica with lights inside three years ago. This year Greer added additional lights to the star along with a champagne glass in front. The ball that drops in New York City is six feet.

Also at the celebration will be three 20-foot screens for the purpose of broadcasting pictures of attendees as they walk in, the bands’ performance, and the Virginia Tech/Tennessee football game. The paparazzi will be on hand to snap photos as people arrive.

This is an age 21 and up event held 8:00p.m. -1:30a.m. In the Special Events Center at the Roanoke Civic Center. The $25 admission in advance includes all entertainment, the star drop and heavy hors oeuvres. There will be a cash bar. A reserved table includes prime placement near the main stage, eight tickets to the event, and a bottle of champagne for midnight toast, party favors and access to the VIP area with hors oeuvres.

For additional information, visit www.sponsorhounds.com/new years.html or call (540) 206-2414 or (877) 723-8496.

The 32nd annual Charity Ball for the Preceptor Omicron chapter of Beta Sigma Phi will be held on New Year’s Eve at The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center.
The ticket price of $160 per couple includes a strolling buffet dinner for two, seating in one of two ballrooms, live music and dancing and a champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight. For additional information and to purchase tickets, call (540) 342-5089 or visit www.newyearsevegala.org.

By Susan Ayers

December 15, 2009

Susan’s New Post

Filed under: General — Tags: , — susanmayers @ 12:00 am

 

Published by Vinton VOICE
November 18, 2009 Edition

Susan M. Ayers, Contributor

Business SPOTLIGHT

 - on Caring Transitions -

When Bonsack resident Kevin Kitts became unemployed, he decided to go in business for himself and through that business, he wanted to help others.

After searching on-line relentlessly for two years for the right business franchise, Kitts ran across a business called Caring Transitions, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio. Caring Transitions is the only North American franchise to specialize in relocation and transition services for Seniors. By realigning his finances and utilizing money left in savings, he was able to purchase a franchise that encompasses Roanoke, Salem, Lynchburg, Bedford and the New River Valley.

Kitts drove to Cincinnati for orientation and went through a rigorous training program June 1-5 of this year and opened for business one week after completion of the training. He said the main office is “very supportive and provides ongoing training.” Kitts works out of his home.

He primarily works with people who find it necessary to leave a familiar home and part with their personal belongings. He also assists clients who want to declutter their homes, but don’t have adequate time to complete the project or they may feel overwhelmed.

Those people Kitts works with leave their homes often because of the result of life events such as downsizing, divorce, the death of a loved one, or the need to move into a retirement community, a nursing care center, or a family member’s home that necessitate transitions. If needed, he arranges the move and acts as supervisor so the owners don’t have to be present and handle all the details involved.

He works closely with his clients to help them understand what is involved and find out what matters the most to them. Based on their preferences, “we coordinate and handle any or all of the clients’ needs. We are committed to making each client’s experience a positive one. We seek what is best for our clients to minimize their stress and last minute scurrying. From managing the move and helping families make informed decisions to handling the liquidation and distribution of personal belongings, we provide the services our clients need and want,” said Kitts.

For keepsakes that the client wants to remain in the family, arrangements are made to have those items moved to the client’s home, shipped to family members, or put in storage.

Kitts makes the necessary phone calls to find out where there is a need and arranges for items that the client wants to donate to be picked up at the home or delivered, which may give the client a tax deduction.

If there are possessions that the client wants to sell, Caring Transitions knows the best way to market and sell those items to obtain the highest price possible. Kitts remarked, “We don’t depend on good weather or buyer turnout at one-day estate sales.”

The best method of selling each item is determined and considerable research may be required prior to making that decision. An inventory listing is then prepared that consists of a list of each item with a detailed description and photograph. Roger Dunagan who resides in Vinton and is a friend and former colleague of Kitts, is the photographer.

The various methods of sale include consignment, tag sales, e-Bay, antique dealers, furniture resellers and auctions. Kitts ensures that all items are clean and well presented prior to being offered for sale, regardless of method of sale used.

He noted that much to the clients’ surprise, he has found numerous items of significant value in the attics or basements of homes including an etching by Pablo Picasso, carved ivory figurines, and a Chinese happiness chair with carved in Chinese happiness symbols. Prior to the donation or sale of books, each page is gone through to ensure that something of value is not overlooked. Kitts has found everything from money to adoption papers between the pages. “Unexpectedly finding treasures for the client is very rewarding to me,” he said.

The sale of the higher-ticketed items is handled by Ken Farmer Auction House & Appraisals in Radford, a full-service auction house. Internationally recognized through the quality of his auctions as well as appearances on the PBS smash hit, Antique Road Show. Farmer has an art appraiser and a coin appraiser on staff. Auctions are held twice monthly with periodic catalogue auctions throughout the year. Catalogs are sent to 3,000 dealers.

Within 10 days after sale of the items, Kitts provides the client with a detailed invoice and check. Accurate and extensive record keeping is important because “your reputation is at stake,” he emphasized.

Another service available is cleaning and staging the home for sale. Kitts locates painters, plumbers, electricians and other professionals as needed. If there are items to be sold in the home, he also takes the necessary steps to stage the items for sale.

“Two years ago, I never thought I would be cleaning other people’s houses,” Kitts laughed. “The bottom line is I’m doing something to help people,” he added.

For additional information, visit www.caringtransitions.net or call (540) 977-2801.

November 25, 2009

Susan’s New Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 8:31 pm

Owners/Operators of Consignment 1st: L to R: Nick Perez, Susan Moore, Not pictured: Martha Perez

Owners/Operators of Consignment 1st: L to R: Nick Perez, Susan Moore, Not pictured: Martha Perez

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
November 20-26, 2009 Edition

 

Shopping for Fashion and Home Decor
at Roanoke “Resale” Outlets

According to The National Association of Resale & Thrift Shops (NARTS), resale continues to gain in popularity for several reasons. For starters, there’s the “green” angle; aside from the current economic conditions, people would rather consign, sell or donate their unwanted or unneeded items rather than just add to the waste stream. Some consumers prefer not to hassle with the work a yard-sale entails.

Even higher-income “fashionistas” and decorating divas with a passion for fashion have jumped on the bandwagon and are buying stylish clothing, accessories and furniture for a third or a fourth of the original price – sometimes even less, leaving money for other things in life.

Many consignment shops have evolved to incorporate a boutique appearance, carrying new and gently used upscale, name brand, and designer apparel and accessories. While the larger thrift stores may require more effort sifting through the merchandise, there is upscale clothing including accessories and shoes as well as furniture, decorating accessories and household goods to be found at bargain prices. Better yet, profits from items sold at many of these outlets support charitable causes.

Some of many resale-shopping opportunities to choose from in Roanoke:

Consignment 1st Roanoke Valley, 2065 Electric Road at Oak Grove Plaza.  Owners/Operators: Wayne and Susan Moore and Nick and Martha Perez. Call first if interested in consigning furniture or large items. Electronics are not accepted for consignment.  Categories: new and “like new” used furniture that is in style, antiques and collectibles, wrought iron, wicker, estates, home décor, artwork, pottery, crystal, silver, and jewelry.

Discovery Shop, 3723 Franklin Road (Townside Shopping Center)
Manager: Amy Whitlow Peck. Categories: The new and gently used merchandise is donated by area businesses and individuals and includes quality and some designer clothing for women and men, home furnishings, collectibles, books and jewelry. The money from sales goes to the local chapter of the American Cancer Society. With the exception of the manager, volunteers staff the store.

Euro Fashions & Exclusives, 3635 Franklin Road (Townside Shopping Center).  Owner/Operator: Rhonda Cheatwood. Consignments by appointment only. Categories: boutique-like atmosphere, new lingerie, “like new” brand name clothing for women, accessories, jewelry, handbags, shoes, and trendy clothing. Brands carried include Armani, Chanel, Gucci, St. John’s, Ann Taylor, and more.

Express Unlimited Furniture & Consignment, 401 Campbell Avenue, SW (beside Angels of Assisi in downtown Roanoke). Owner: Anthony Miller. Manager: Tracey McNew. Categories: Has found a niche from their other business Express Delivery & Moving by turning customer’s unused household items into cash and at the same time helping families find items they need at affordable prices. Their store offers gently used furniture, decorative accessories, electronics, and appliances.

Gently Worn, 2107 Apperson Drive (beside the Paperback Exchange) Owners/Operators: Kaye Garland and Joanne Foster. Consignments by apointment only. Categories: “Like new” clothing for women including suits, separates, casual wear, cocktail and formal wear, shoes, handbags, jewelry, belts, designer name jeans, home decorative items, gifts. Name brands include Talbots, Eddie Bauer, Gap, Ann Taylor, and more.

Golden Shoestring, 621 Townside Road off of Franklin Road, Ste E (Behind Jiffy Lube).  Owners/Operators:  Susan Appel and Mary Ahea    Consignments by appointment only.  Categories:  features clothing for both women and men, upscale, designer labels, casual wear, work attire, shoes, costume jewelry, some fine jewelry, handbags.    

Goodwill has several retail stores in Roanoke and surrounding areas.  Categories:  men and women’s clothing, accessories, furniture, kitchenware, art, music, toys, books, electronics, and collectibles.  Many of the items are brand-name and designer labels.  Items may be donated at any of the Goodwill stores during regular business hours.  The dollars spent in the stores support Goodwill’s Mission Services programs for people with disabilities and disadvantages. 

Hidden Treasures Consignment Boutique  4216 Brambleton Avenue (at Brambleton Plaza) Owner/Operator:  Bethany King. Consignments by appointment only.  Categories: primarily designer labels and the latest fashions in clothing, shoes, purses, consigned jewelry as well as jewelry by local artists, formalwear, and furniture in order to offer an upscale venue to consign, shop, and save money.     

 New To Me Consignment Boutique, 1504 Grandin Road, Southwest Roanoke.  Owner/Operator:  Jenny Prickitt   Consignments by appointment only.  Categories:  Upscale boutique that sells art, furniture, clothing, shoes, gift items, jewelry, collectible antiques, decorative accessories for the home, and unique gifts. 

Rescue Mission Thrift Store, 421 4th Street SE,  Manager: Charlotte Anders.     Categories:  clothing and shoes for ladies, men, and children, toys, household goods, appliances, furniture, bedding, window treatments, formalwear, and costume jewelry.  Items may be donated at the store during regular hours Monday through Saturday 9am-5pm.  The dollars spent in the stores are used to provide needed services for the poor such as meals, shelter and medicine.

2nd Helpings Shop/Gallery/Cafe – 1502 Williamson Road (in the former Sears Building) Manager:  Joyce Sylvester Johnson; Co-Managers:  Rhonda Hamed and Terry Wilkinson.  The Roanoke Rescue Mission’s recently opened upscale thrift shop includes a store, cafe and art gallery.  Categories:  The store sells gently used fashions, furnishings, collectibles and pet accessories.  Clothing is arranged by color and size.  The Art Gallery, a successor to Art on a Mission at Tanglewood Mall, contains eclectic works of art including drawings, pottery, photography, sculpture and jewelry from more than 100 regional artists.  All of the profits raised from the 2nd Helping store are used to fund the operating budget for Rescue Mission ministries.  The purchase of original art from the gallery supports local artists and provides funds for the homeless to access the medical attention they need.  Items for sale in the store originate from donations taken in at the 421 4th Street location.

By  Susan Ayers

 

 

 

   

 

November 24, 2009

Susan’s New Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 9:19 pm

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
November 13-19, 2009 Edition

Franklin County Joins Water Authority

The Roanoke City Council, the Boards of Supervisors of Franklin and Roanoke counties, and the Western Virginia Water Authority of Roanoke unanimously approved Franklin County’s membership to the authority last week. The membership will not be official until the State Corporation Commission grants approval. The Western Virginia Water Authority and Franklin County have previously worked together to acquire several private water systems in the Smith Mountain Lake area and to obtain money to extend the water system at Westlake along Scruggs Road.

Before they voted, a public hearing was jointly held on Thursday, November 5 by the City Council of Roanoke, the Boards of Supervisors of Franklin County and Roanoke County and by the Board of Directors of the Western Virginia Water Authority of Roanoke at the Vinton War Memorial.

The Western Virginia Water Authority was formed on July 1, 2004 between Roanoke City and Roanoke County to become a regional entity for providing water and wastewater services to customers. The Authority said this regional approach has benefited customers in the Roanoke area and now stands to benefit current Authority customers as well as Franklin County by providing adequate water supply, fire protection and wastewater services for all customers for years to come. It came about after an earlier period of drought that saw Roanoke City without adequate water supply when Carvins Cove was low; meanwhile neighboring Roanoke County had ample water coming from Spring Hollow Reservoir.

Authority members say this regional approach has benefited customers in the Roanoke Valley by providing adequate water supply, fire protection and wastewater services for all customers, for many years to come.

Fuzzy Minnix, the Western Virginia Water Authority Board Chairman said “things accomplished led by [former Roanoke County Administrator] Elmer Hodge and staff, helped bring about the authority’s leadership by both the County and the City. We welcome Franklin County as cousins just south of us.”

“This is good for the region. It’s a good business decision,” said Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce President Joyce Waugh.

Eleanor Dillard, a local resident attending the hearing, was a bit more cautious: “the more we add localities, the more we stretch our own resources. [But] regional cooperation is good if all are on equal basis.”

Rocky Mount Town Manager James Ervin preferred to see the event in amore positive light: “This is an exciting day and I want to say well done.”

The joint resolution authorizing Franklin County to join the Western Virginia Water Authority was read and presented to Franklin County Administrator Rick Huff.

“It is with a “great deal of pleasure that we the Western Virginia Water Authority, welcome Franklin County as our newest member and it is great to have them on board. Cheers to all,” said Minnix with a final comment. Bedford County already had a connection to water systems in Franklin County; future plans could include a link to Smith Mountain Lake and a return loop to Roanoke that would finalize a complete circuit, able to send water to places where it is needed most.

By: Susan Ayers

Susan’s New Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 8:24 pm

 

Naralie Cole wows the audience at the RSO pops concert.

Naralie Cole wows the audience at the RSO pops concert.

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
November 13-19, 2009 Edition

 

 

Cole Is Still “Unforgettable”

Nine-time Grammy Award winner Natalie Cole and the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra kicked off this year’s Picnic at the Pops Series with “An Unforgettable Journey” last week at the Salem Civic Center. Despite the continued downturn in the economy, there weren’t many empty seats in the house.

The Roanoke Symphony Orchestra with Maestro David Wiley attired in full western wear (cowboy hat and duster), first took the audience for a “Tour over Americana” beginning with a high-energy medley of western favorites arranged by Ralph Ford. The audience then took delight in “Yankee Doodle Dandy”, a patriotic medley followef by “Hello Dolly.” .

An upbeat rendition of “When the Saints Come Marching In” evoked toe-tapping and hand-clapping. God Bless America, the patriotic tune written by Irving Berlin, turned into a grand march tempo. There was also “White Christmas,” with snow falling gently on stage, and “Satchmo,” a tribute to jazz legend Louis Armstrong.

Following intermission, Cole sashayed onto the stage attired in a stunning spaghetti-strap gown, sporting short chic hair. The audience greeted her with thunderous applause. Cole appeared to be in fine shape, despite a diagnosis of hepatitis C last year, undergoing kidney dialysis three times weekly, and then successfully surviving a kidney transplant. She also lost her sister to lung cancer the same day of her surgery in May. Cole’s father, the immortal Nat King Cole had also passed away with lung cancer at age 45.

Returning to the stage this fall, Cole has built a strong repertoire with a variety of songs, mainly in the jazz and blues style. While her father, achieved superstar status, she has created an individual identity for herself that has endured and matured through the years. Cole captured the Best New Artist Grammy in 1975 and has earned six Grammys along the way including Record and Album of the Year in 1991 for “Unforgettable…With Love.” The CD was number one for five weeks and sold more than eight million copies in the country. It included a memorable duet with her father – his vocal track at least – on “Unforgettable.”

In recent years, Cole decided to wait until she was ready to return to the songs that fulfilled her heart and soul and instead focused on other things, like an autobiography. In September 2008 her CD, “Still Unforgettable” received two Grammys and earned Cole a NAACP Award for Best Jazz Artist.

Her performance with the RSO journeyed through big band, jazz, soul, and recalled legendary artists like her father, Jack Jones, Lena Horne, Sammy Davis Jr., Peggy Lee and Frank Sinatra. Cole’s versatility and wide vocal range mesmerized and engaged the audience.

The most touching segment was during the posthumous duet of “Unforgettable…With Love” when a screen suspended from the ceiling projected a slideshow above the orchestra containing images of Nat trading verses with his teary-eyed daughter on stage.

Another duet with her father came during “Walking My Baby Back Home,” which was originally recorded by her father in the early 50’s. Cole said “putting that together with dad wasn’t that easy. I’m trying to hold it together up here. If it weren’t for your prayers the past year, I wouldn’t be here. Even strangers care.”

Cole recalled her father’s cheerfulness as she sang, “Smile” and noted that Charlie Chaplin suggested the song to Nat. Other highlights included “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love),” “Our Love,” “Come Rain or Come Shine” and “I’ve Got Love on my Mind.”

At one point, Cole playfully said to the audience, “I’m sorry we’re having so many problems with the sound system [when her voice was lost to the music]. Who should I fire?” Then when someone’s cell phone in the audience rang loudly, with a big smile she inquired, “Is that a cell phone?” Both comments evoked laughter from the audience.

Cole’s performance proved that she is still at the top of her game, and is incredibly inspiring on a human level, after having successfully overcome many extremely difficult obstacles along the way.

Roanoke Symphony Orchestra upcoming events: Handel’s Messiah on December 6 at 3:00 p.m. and Holiday Pops Spectacular featuring Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Roanoke College Children’s Choir, Salem Choral Society, and George Dyer, Tenor on December 11 at 7:00 p.m. Also, RSO partners with the Taubman Museum of Art to present the Arts in Concert Family Series at the Taubman Museum. The November 21 performance, “The Junior Strings” featuring a real String Orchestra (violins, violas, cellos and basses) for kids only and on December 5 with Maestro David Stewart Wiley, a visitor from the North Pole will lead the whole family in singing holiday favorites in a “Holiday sing-a-long.” Both programs begin at 11:00 a.m. and will last for 40 minutes. For more details and to learn about events scheduled for 2010, visit rso.com or call (540) 343-9127.

By Susan Ayers

November 23, 2009

Susan’s New Post

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 9:09 pm
 

 

Kaine Touts Business Plan in Roanoke

Gov. Tim Kaine speaks at the Roanoke Chamber.

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
November 13-19, 2009 Edition

 

Kaine Touts Business Plan in Roanoke

Governor Tim Kaine announced that “Phase Two” of the Business One Stop online system will occur in December. He made that announcement locally earlier this week at a press conference with small business owners at the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce offices.

Launched in May 2008, Virginia’s online business formation portal, or Business One Stop was designed to assist in the formation of new businesses in the Commonwealth. It was also meant to streamline the business formation process by automatically finding and filing the necessary forms.

Stephen Roberson remarked that he “walked through the entire process to start a limited liability company in Virginia” and that his company, Paint & Bristle, LLC is “growing and doing well in this economy.” Utilizing Business One Stop, he “was able to devote [more] time to marketing” his business.

According to data supplied by the state, more than 15,000 entrepreneurs have utilized the online tool to aid their business operations and create jobs. Of those who have utilized the Business One Stop website, 57 percent have completed the forms. “This online tool and the efforts of the Department of Business Assistance allows businesses to take care of business, rather than spend days visiting different offices to fill out paperwork,” said Kaine.

“At a time when people are concerned about the economy, small businesses continue to grow and generate more than half of the jobs here and in the New River Valley and by helping small businesses grow, we’re helping the economy grow,” said Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Joyce Waugh.

The portal is not designed for businesses created outside of Virginia, seeking to initiate new operations within the Commonwealth, nor is it for nonprofit organizations and charities. (Those businesses can contact the Virginia Business Information Center at vbic@vdba.virginia.gov or by calling (866) 248-8814.

“Phase Two’s “Business Wizard” is similar to a program that students use to help them choose and pursue a new career, enroll in one of Virginia’s community colleges, pay for college, or transfer to a four-year college or university. Business Wizard is based partially on feedback from entrepreneurs who utilized Business One Stop and will further simplify and accelerate the process of business formation in Virginia. “It will move us to completing the process with a Turbo Tax type of set-up,” he added.

The Virginia Department of Business Assistance (VDBA) works with new and existing businesses to provide workforce incentives, loans, business information, one-on-one counseling for entrepreneurs getting started or with specific concerns, and educational opportunities. “Virginia Information Center recognized that people wanted to do more on-line,” said Virginia Department of Business Assistance Communications Manager Will Vehrs.

This summer, Virginia was cited by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top five states to start a business; recognized as “Best State for Business” and as a nationwide model for the fourth consecutive year by Pollina Corporate Real Estate, Inc. (a top U.S. corporate site relocation expert); and named the number one state for business by the financial-news channel CNBC.

Most recently, Forbes recognized Virginia for the fourth consecutive year as “Best State for Business.” Business costs, economic climate, growth prospects, labor, quality of life and regulatory environment were the six categories examined in the ranking process. Virginia was the only state to placed in the top ten of each category. None of the other states placed in the top ten in more than three categories.

“We know we’ve won accolades, but we won’t keep them standing still,” said Kaine. As to economic development, “you’re only as good as your planning for tomorrow is. We can’t “stand still and rest on our laurels.”

Business Wizard should go live in less than two weeks according to Governor Kaine.

By Susan Ayers

Susan’s New Post

Filed under: General — Tags: , — susanmayers @ 8:10 pm

Library Director Sheila Umberger addresses attendees on a rainy morning last week, at the site of the future "superbranch."

Library Director Sheila Umberger addresses attendees on a rainy morning last week, at the site of the future "superbranch."

Published by The Roanoke Star-Sentinel
November 6-12, 2009 Edition

 

City Reveals Plan for “Superbranch Library”

Roanoke City officials have announced plans for construction of a “superbranch” library on an 11-acre vacant parcel of land, located near the intersection of Cove Road and Peters Creek Road.

Purchase of the land for the new library for the new library by Roanoke City in early October follows the renovation and expansion of two city branch libraries, Gainsboro and Jackson Park, and the completion of two electronic [e-branch] facilities at Garden City Recreation Center and Valley View Mall.

The decision concerning location was based on several demographics, including traffic count, bus routes, and a strategic location that “would put us where our users need us, within one or two miles of where they live or work, “ said Director of Roanoke City Libraries Shelia Umberger. Also, “a need will be filled in this area which is underserved,” she added. The price tag attached to the land was approximately $775,000.

The first library branch to be built in the city since the 1970’s will in many ways resemble a modern bookstore. A drive-through window for easier access, a café, more space and plenty of parking are some of the attributes envisioned in the plan for the new library. Merchandising is the current dictum in progressive public libraries.

In the early 1990’s, the larger bookstores created lounge areas similar to those in libraries. Now libraries throughout the country are beginning to utilize some of the amenities that are available in the larger bookstores.

The President of the City of Roanoke Library’s Advisory Board Stan Breakell remarked that the retail customer service model is a convenient and easy way to get “hot picks” displayed, as they would be in a store. “This is an opportunity to create a much needed, state-of-the-art, full-service facility from the ground up.

The new 30,000 square feet full-service library will also feature more books, a “themed” children’s area to be created by a renowned designer who has worked in other libraries, 100 computer workstations, and like the other branches, will include a teen space and community rooms that can be used for events and tutoring.

Breakell noted that “from 2005 through 2009, Roanoke City libraries has seen the programs offered annually increase in number from 175 to 1,690; the annual attendance at the programs increase from 4,176 to 45,695; participation in summer reading programs increase from 1,800 to 4,400 children; and the number users of the library increase from 424,000 to 669,000 an increase of 63%.”

The president of general contractor Breakell Inc. noted that, [City Manager] Darlene Burcham… Shelia Umberger and staff have been pivotal in making this happen. Shelia Umberger has been pivotal in delivering the goods.”

SFCS Inc. in Roanoke will serve as Lead Architect and will be teamed with PSA-Dewberry of Dallas, Texas. A fee of $724,860 was negotiated with SFCS Inc. for the necessary programming, planning, architectural and engineering services including LEED certification for the full service library. The SFCS-PSA Newberry team was selected out of 16 proposals that were received by the city’s selection committee.

Roanoke City Manager Darlene Burcham said, “It may be hard to imagine today, but in just a little over two years, we’re going to see the newest centerpiece to the city’s ever improving library system.” She noted that the goal is to make the building “LEED Platinum,” a rigorous rating point system addresses six categories including sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality and innovation and design process.

The Capital Improvement Program that Roanoke City Council adopted will fund construction of the new library. “It is anticipated that construction will begin in late summer 2011 and be completed in fall 2012. The estimated length of construction is 14-16 months,” said Roanoke City Engineer Phil Schirmer.

By Susan Ayers

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

Filed under: General — Tags: — susanmayers @ 12:22 pm

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

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