Roanoke College announces new teachersPosted Sep18, 2008 at 12:17 PMNineteen professors have joined the Roanoke College faculty for the 2008-09 academic year The new faculty members include:
Roanoke College receives National Science Foundation grantPosted Sep18, 2008 at 12:13 PM Dr. Jack Steehler and Dr. Benjamin Huddle, professors of chemistry at Roanoke College, were recently awarded a three-year grant of nearly $100,000 from the National Science Foundation. Their project, titled “Real-Life Inquiry-Based GC/MS Experiments for General Education Chemistry Courses,” aims at developing new curricular materials that will bring important real-life applications into the laboratory experiences of both first-year science majors and non-majors. The project, funded by a grant of $99,648, will focus on two topical areas, forensic chemistry and environmental chemistry, and will include the addition of guided inquiry laboratory experiments using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS). GC/MS is a powerful method of analysis used by chemists and is familiar to the public for its use in detecting drug use by athletes. New experiments will be developed for the environmental chemistry and forensic chemistry courses for non-majors, along with a variety of experiments for science majors, including real-life applications and service learning projects, such as those focused on monitoring pesticides in soil. The project also will include an outreach component, consisting of a series of workshops for area high school teachers. Workshops will provide hands-on experience as well as emphasize inquiry-based experimentation. Rather than traditional survey courses that compose many general education curricula, Roanoke’s forthcoming “Intellectual Inquiry” curriculum will provide inquiry-based courses and seminars across campus. The new curriculum development project in chemistry reflects the central role of inquiry in the College’s curriculum. Video: Brannon's first day of schoolPosted Sep12, 2008 at 03:47 PMWe asked for back to school photos and look what we got! Ashley Blevins sends us a video of her son, Brannon Spickard, getting on the school bus for the very first time. This was shot Sept. 2 as he gets on the bus to start kindergarten at West Salem Elementary. Do you have back to school photos? Or even video? You can share right here. Salem City Summer School ReportPosted Sep12, 2008 at 03:06 PMAt the Sept. 9 school board meeting, the numbers of students in the city’s various summer school programs were announced. * High school credit-bearing courses had 169 students enrolled, including 57 for driver’s education classes. Fourteen students met graduation requirements as a result of summer school. Roanoke College professor's book recognizedPosted Sep12, 2008 at 02:25 PM
Robert Schultz’s book “The Madhouse Nudes” was chosen by the Lutheran Book Club for the months of July through August this year. Schultz is an English professor at Roanoke College. He recently completed a nonfiction work entitled “We were pirates, a torpedo-man’s view of the Pacific War.” The book’s main character is an un-churched male artist who studies the female form. Through this character, the reader experiences church without any religious background as well as small town suspicion and judgment—among other aspects of the book that make it a good discussion piece. The book club is a part of Lutheran Writers, a group that is not affiliated with the Lutheran church itself, but it is made up of members of the church and other Lutheran-affiliated institutions. Visit robertschultz.us or www.LutheranWriter.org for more information (and to get the discussion guide for “The Madhouse Nudes.”) Q: How does a Lutheran book club end up choosing a book called “The Madhouse Nudes”? Photo: Schultz read poetry from a work in progress, "Ancestral Art," at the Tanglewood Barnes & Noble in August. College Day to be held at Salem Civic Center Sept. 18Posted Sep09, 2008 at 03:14 PMMore than 100 representatives from colleges (both two-year and four-year) plus career, technical, business schools and the service academies will be at the Salem Civic Center on Thursday, Sept. 18 to talk with prospective students. The times are 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. The event is sponsored by the public school systems in Salem, Roanoke County and Roanoke. Buy a cookie or buy a book to benefit the Salem LibraryPosted Sep08, 2008 at 04:41 PMThe Friends of the Salem Library will host their annual booksale within the Salem Library to coincide with Olde Salem Days -- and the teens will be doing their part, too. Outside, teens and their parents will be selling bags of cookies and bottles of water for $1 apiece. The baked goods are being donated by FOSLs, teens' parents, and community members, and the proceeds will benefit Ourspace The goal is to raise enough money to buy a large flat panel television that will affix to the wall in the meeting room where the teens gather after school. "The teen room has been a huge success in the Salem Library," said teen librarian David Butler. "It's something we're looking to keep building year after year." Some ideas Butler has to keep teens interested in the library include playing games like "Don't forget the lyrics," and maybe host a tournament with Rock Band, a video game, to raise money for the program. Inside, FOSLs and volunteers will sell donated books to benefit the library. On Saturday, September 13, the sale will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and a clearance sale will follow September 14 from 1:30 to 4 p.m. "Last year we netted over $6,200 which sets a high goal for us to equal or exceed this year. With the downturn in the economy, this may be more difficult, but there is no better entertainment bargain than a good book at a greatly discounted price," said FOSL president Bob McClanahan, Jr., in the library's newsletter. And the book sale is also an excuse to escape the heat of Olde Salem Days, too! Glenvar High School science students: leave your fishing poles at homePosted Sep05, 2008 at 12:27 PM
As teacher and avid fly fisherman Dave Mueller took a class at Mary Baldwin College this summer entitled “Trout in the Classroom,” he knew the concept was something he had to help bring back to Glenvar science classrooms in the fall. With the help of the local Trout Unlimited Chapter, science teacher Charles Filer, and Mueller, earth science and biology students at Glenvar High School will help hatch and care for trout eggs, then release them next spring. “The cool thing about it is that I’ll use that as a learning tool all year long … to teach water quality and fish life cycles,” Filer said. “If we can get them to make the connection within their community and develop relationships with some of the partners, it’s a win-win for everybody,” he added. Students will get to meet and work with Trout Unlimited members, like one of Glenvar’s liaisons, Karl Miller. Continue reading "Glenvar High School science students: leave your fishing poles at home" » School's back in for everyone!Posted Sep02, 2008 at 03:27 PM
The 2008-09 school year is back in swing for just about everyone on this side of Roanoke County with the start of Salem City Schools today. Returning students are stepping back into routines and readjusting, and new students are learning the ropes. But what about the kindergardeners? For some, it's their first day away from home completely. And how does one learn how to properly empty a tray in the school cafeteria? 
A visit to G.W. Carver Elementary cleared that up, where the little ones were busy getting acquainted, or reacquainted, or just being silly and having fun. So when do they start on the box lunch from Mom or the nutritionally calculated school lunch? "They always begin furiously eating whenever you tell them it's about time to go," smiling principal Trula Byington said. Did you take a picture of your little one getting on the school bus this morning, or last Monday morning? Maybe you have a picture of your middle- or high-schooler? Send them to us at news@sosalem.com and we'll put them up here and possibly in an upcoming issue of So Salem! Our last two posts about G.W. Carver were on June 6 and April 14. Andrew Lewis Middle School barely misses No Child Left Behind MarkPosted Sep02, 2008 at 10:15 AM
Just one Salem City School, Andrew Lewis Middle School, didn’t meet Virginia’s No Child Left Behind objectives. Every other Roanoke County and Salem City school passed the tests for the 2007-08 school year. Benchmarks are set at higher percentage passing points each year by the state, with the hope of eventually having 100 percent of students pass. ALMS met 28 out of 29 objectives for achievement and participation in testing, missing one mathematics indicator by three percentage points – the equivalent of two children, according to Salem City Schools. The school’s status may change pending an appeal to the Virginia Department of Education concerning eight students’ math scores. “Test scores are important because they are indicators of student progress, but we teach children, not percentages,” said superintendent Alan Seibert. Salem City Schools implemented a “Vertical Group” after the 2006-07 school year, even after passing all of Virginia’s AYP requirements, to identify how to teach students the skills needed to pass tests, but to help them succeed in the workplace of tomorrow. 78 school divisions did not make AYP in the 2007-08 school year. Of the 78, 23 met all but one of the 29 objectives for achievement and participation in testing, according to a release from the Virginia Department of Education. You can look up to see how other schools did right here. OTHER RECENT ANDREW LEWIS COVERAGE * Aug. 29: Photos of Andrew Lewis volleyball team Want to see a dodgeball tournament ... with volleyball players?Posted Aug28, 2008 at 11:14 AM
The Glenvar Highlanders' volleyball team will be hosting a tournament with teams made up of students, teachers, staff, and administration from Glenvar High School on Saturday, September 20. It starts at 2 p.m. in the Glenvar High School gym, and it's open format. Participants will pay $5 to play, but you can come watch the action for just $1. All proceeds will benefit Highlander volleyball. By the way, Glenvar has a volleyball match against Lord Botetourt tonight at 6 p.m. There's a home JV football game against Lord Botetourt, too, at the same time. Are you going to either (or both) athletic events, with a camera in tow? Send your pictures to us here at news@sosalem.com and we'll post 'em up here to share. Our last post about Glenvar HS was on August 25. Click here for more photos of all the Glenvar sports teams. Photo: Casey Moore, Liz Trinchere, and Jessica Saunders are the captains of Glenvar Varsity Volleyball. Andrew Lewis is only Salem school not to meet federal standardsPosted Aug27, 2008 at 04:48 PM All Salem schools except one -- Andrew Lewis Middle School -- met the federal standards under the No Child Left Behind Act. The latest report is out today. Every school in Roanoke County met the standards. The standards, known as Adequate Yearly Progress, or AYP, measure students in reading and math. Schools last year had to show that 77 percent of students passed Standards of Learning tests in English and 75 percent passed the tests in math in order to meet the federal benchmarks. The law also requires that students of different demographic groups pass the tests at the same rate. The standards become increasingly difficult every year until 2014, when all students will be expected to pass the state tests. In 2007 and 2006, every Salem school met the standards. In 2005, only one came up short -- Andrew Lewis. You can look up details on each Salem school (or anywhere in Western Virginia, for that matter) on our Datasphere. For a news story on schools across the region, click here. For more on Roanoke County schools, click here. Got an opinion? You can click "comment" below. Our last post about Andrew Lewis Middle School was August 25. Maroons begin to branch out into SalemPosted Aug26, 2008 at 03:07 PM Last night (Monday, August 25), Roanoke College pulled its freshmen class out of the comfort net that orientation on a new campus typically provides. The sample eats from local restaurants, presentations and coupons from local merchants, and the special performance from local band Monkey Fuzz all came together to show those new to Salem what the city has to offer. “Every year we bring in 500 people who need to be introduced to the city of Salem,” Paul Henrickson, RC Chaplain, said. “They need to get at least this far into Salem to see what’s here … to understand that this is a welcoming community and the college is right in the middle of it.” The students started their intense orientation to Roanoke College soon after moving in on Saturday, August 16. They will even participate in construction efforts for the third annual “R house.” The project, which is taking place in the Olin Hall Parking lot off of Thompson Memorial, is in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity. The nearly complete house will be moved to its final location on Hershberger Road on August 30. Click here for a few more pictures of Roanoke College folks. Here’s more information from a press release by the college: Approximately 85 first-year students will move into Tabor Hall (part of the first-year complex project), which has been under construction for the past year. The 2008-09 academic year will witness renovation, construction and completion of Shenandoah and Blue Ridge halls, as they make up the final pieces of the new first-year student complex. New school year begins for Roanoke County todayPosted Aug25, 2008 at 12:42 PM This morning, folks in Roanoke County packed up the bookbags and the lunch boxes and sent their children, tweens, and teens off to the first day of the 2008-09 school year. Did you take a picture of your child getting on the bus (especially kindergarten or pre-k)? Send it to us at news@sosalem.com and we'll put it up here. Orientation for Glenvar High School students last Thursday, August 21, had a huge turnout. 131 families out of 167 were present to learn the ins and outs of being a ninth-grader. Assistant principal Sonya Cline had a big part of organizing the school's first orientation, revamped and aimed at "making their transition a little bit smoother" from middle to high school, principal Joe Hafey said. "How many of your parents went to high school here?" Hafey asked as about half of the auditorium raised their hands. Glenvar is a very family- and tradition- focused school, and he reminded the freshmen to present themselves in a respectful way. Continue reading "New school year begins for Roanoke County today" » Salem, Roanoke County bus routes now onlinePosted Aug22, 2008 at 09:52 AMWe published the Salem bus routes in today's print edition of So Salem -- and the Roanoke County bus routes in this past Tuesday's edition of The Roanoke Times. But if you'd prefer them online, we now have them in digital form, as well -- both Salem and Roanoke County. Salem High School Orientation date is August 28Posted Aug21, 2008 at 09:06 AM In last Friday's (August 15) issue, we said that Salem High School's new student orientation was August 21, when it's actually a week later -- August 28. We pulled the date from an un-updated announcement. Our apologies. In the meantime, are you headed up to James Madison University to see the Spartans play Potomac Falls High School for their first scrimmage of the season? Send us your pictures of cheering in the stands, tailgating, the game, and your thoughts on the upcoming season if you've got 'em to news@sosalem.com ! We'll put them up here on the blog with the probability that they'll show up in an upcoming issue of So Salem. And by the way, did you get a chance to see pics of Salem's (and Glenvar's) fall sports teams? Photo: Salem's football captains Jonathan Walker (left) and Ryan Dowe are leading the Spartans into the 2008 season. Roanoke County bus routes published todayPosted Aug19, 2008 at 09:54 AMThe bus routes for Roanoke County public schools are published today in a special insert in The Roanoke Times. Salem's bus routes will appear in Friday's print edition of So Salem. Careful readers may notice that last week's So Salem said they'd appear on the 29th. However, we got the routes sooner than we expected from the school system -- and we sold some extra advertising in this week's issue, so we have the space available -- and figured you'd rather have them sooner rather than later. Roanoke County Schools meet yearly progress requirementsPosted Aug15, 2008 at 10:27 AMPreliminary reports from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) indicate all 27 elementary, middle and high schools in Roanoke County have met all the requirements of Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) as part of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). Additionally Roanoke County Public Schools has met all AYP requirements on a school division level. “I am so proud of our students, teachers, staff and parents,” said Roanoke County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Lorraine Lange. “It takes a team to achieve success and I am so happy that together we have worked to meet all the requirements. We look forward to starting another successful school year in just a few days,” said Lange. The preliminary report is based upon Standards of Learning (SOL) test result data from the 2007-2008 school year. SOL test results will be formally released later this month by the VDOE. More on Salem's DARE CampPosted Aug14, 2008 at 10:56 AM
Here's a press release from the City of Salem wrapping up this summer's DARE camp series. Late in July I went out to Camp Bethel and got some pictures of the high ropes course. Camp director, Senior Police Officer Margaret Dillon, sent me some pictures of the canoe trip that week, too. For links to those pictures and the July article, click here. The City of Salem Police department’s Camp D.A.R.E. just wrapped up its 18th summer of educating the city’s young people with its successful combination of fun in the sun and life lessons. This summer, 205 rising 7th graders from Andrew Lewis Middle School took part in the eight summer sessions at Camp Bethel in Botetourt County. That’s a huge jump from 1991 when just 67 youngsters participated in the inaugural camp. Submitted by Mike Stevens, City of Salem Communication Director ITT Technical Institute plans Salem locationPosted Aug14, 2008 at 09:44 AMITT Technical Institute is looking at the Lee-Hi Business Center to open its first location in Southwest Virginia, and classes could begin by the end of the year. The Salem Planning Commission recommended Wednesday night that the Indiana-based technical college receive a special exception permit. For more on the story by reporter Pete Dybdahl, click here. Salem seniors to graduate two days early in '09Posted Aug13, 2008 at 04:49 PMTo the new senior class at Salem High School, you have a modified graduation date: June 10, 2009. The Salem School Board voted Tuesday to cut two exam days for seniors so that commencement services can be squeezed into the Salem Civic Center schedule in advance of a horse show. The change, which affects only the senior class, shortens the school year by about six hours and slightly alters the exam schedule, Superintendent Alan Seibert said. For more on the change and what it means, see this story by reporter Pete Dybdahl. Salem schools have new dress codePosted Aug13, 2008 at 12:44 PMIn case you haven't heard, Salem schools have a new dress code for the coming school year. Here's a link to Salem's official policy on what's allowed and not allowed -- complete with photographs of, well, what's not allowed. We'll have more on the dress code in Friday's print edition of So Salem -- along with a pull-out school calender you can put on your refrigerator. Meanwhile, if you want to share thoughts on the new policy, click "comment" below. Pack the bus! Support Roanoke County Schools outreachPosted Aug11, 2008 at 05:41 PMIf you're going to be near the Bonsack Wal-Mart today, Tuesday, August 12, from 4 to 7 p.m., or near the Hunting Hills Wal-Mart on Thursday, August 14, from 4 to 7 p.m., Roanoke County Schools will be accepting donations to help collect supplies for students in need! "We know that this year, probably more than any other in recent memory, kids are going to need some help" getting all of the school supplies that they need, said Chuck Lionberger, community relations specialist with Roanoke County Schools. He cited Roanoke County staff, teachers, and even administrators' abilities to "make that dollar just go, and go, and go." Roanoke and Botetourt County Schools will be represented at the Bonsack event, and Roanoke County and Roanoke City Schools will be represented at the Hunting Hills location. Iron Chef event postponed at Glenvar LibraryPosted Aug08, 2008 at 03:16 PMGlenvar teens will just have to watch the Food Network to get their dose of competitive cooking for now. Due to a scheduling conflict, the Iron Chef program at Glenvar Branch Public Library scheduled for Thursday, August 14, has been postponed. But don't forget about the first annual Glenvar Library End-of-Summer Picnic! This event is scheduled for Friday, August 22, 4 to 7 p.m. There will be a free moon bounce, obstacle course & slide, face painting, helium balloons, hot dogs, chips and more! Wii gaming in the library. Bring your blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the food and fun – courtesy of the Roanoke County Public Library. Everyone is welcome! See an Activboard in actionPosted Aug07, 2008 at 09:50 AMThe big news in Roanoke County classrooms this fall will be Activboards. Think of them as high-tech blackboards. Except nobody uses blackboards anyway, do they? They're all white boards or such. Anyway, we thought you'd like to see one in action to understand what all the fuss is about. We have a video in production showing the Activboards that Roanoke County schools will have. But until it's ready, well, there's this. It may not be the same model, but you'll get the idea. Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce scholarship recipientsPosted Aug06, 2008 at 06:16 PM Local high school graduates Michael Tolley (Salem, first at left,) Sean Guzman (Northside,) Cara Jennings (Salem, second at left) and Melissa McDonald (Glenvar, third from left) each received a $1,000 scholarship from the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce.
 The scholarships were awarded based on career goals, strong work ethic, community involvement and financial need of the student. The chamber's program was established in 1996, and since then, has presented four awards per school year.  Funds for these awards are made possible through the generosity of sponsors and other participants of the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce Annual Fall Classic Golf Tournament and other fundraisers throughout the year. This year’s golf tournament will be held September 4 and 5 at Hanging Rock Golf Club. For information on how you can become a tournament sponsor or participant, please call the Chamber office at 387-0267. Continue reading "Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce scholarship recipients" » Spa program at Glenvar Library shows teens a different side of the stacksPosted Aug04, 2008 at 01:04 PM The meeting room at the Glenvar Library lent itself to luxury on July 31 as Roanoke County librarians and a Wilhemina model showed teens how to apply makeup, do manicures, as well as how to make homemade beauty products. "Makeup is expensive," Hollins librarian Nancy Gattoni said. "They can make inexpensive things with oatmeal," she added. A Glenvar patron donated new makeup, and librarians dug up recipes for homemade pore strips, shaving lotion, and bath salts and let the teens mix the ingredients. They also made beeswax lipbalm (but it was too hot a process for "Spa on a Dime" night.) Some of the manicure techniques were learned by observant librarians at Divinity Lifestyle Spa in Botetourt County. Dawn Cheney, a librarian at Glenvar, invited her daughter, Whitney Spaulding out to apply (and explain) makeup to the girls that wanted it. Spaulding is a model with the Wilhemina Modeling Agency in New York and in Florida. Keep reading for the recipes if you'd like to make your own homemade comedics. Continue reading "Spa program at Glenvar Library shows teens a different side of the stacks" » Salem Host Lions Club awards scholarship to local graduatesPosted Aug01, 2008 at 05:43 PM Seven graduates from local high schools were given scholarships totalling $14,500. John Ribble was given an inaugural scholarship honoring Walter Hunt, the late former superintendent of Salem City Schools. Other recipients include Glenvar grad Kenneth Lampert and Salem grads George George III, Jennifer Saliba, Thomas Barnette, and Amanda Kanode. John Harris from Patrick Henry High School (Glade Spring, VA) was also a recipient. According to Bill Powell, Salem Host Lions President, "These scholarships are awarded yearly and over the past three years the Salem Lions Club has given over $33,500 in scholarship money ... We stand by our commitment and motto 'We Serve."' Photo: John Ribble and Avis Hunt. Photos and information courtesy of Tom McClure. Continue reading "Salem Host Lions Club awards scholarship to local graduates" » Salem D.A.R.E. Camp: the tradition continuesPosted Jul25, 2008 at 05:34 PM Fishing, horseback riding, canoeing and camp fires are all things a kid should expect from a bona fide summer camp, but as all Salem sixth-grade graduates know—there’s nothing like going to camp with cops (and zambizi flies). The opportunity to interact with officers in blue goes hand in hand with what summertime spent away from home is all about: gaining confidence and creating friendships. The summer after sixth grade, about 70 percent of Andrew Lewis Middle School students visit Salem D.A.R.E. camp for a week. For many children, it’s their first time away from home for more than a night or two. For others, it’s their only opportunity to go to camp. Click through the "continue" tab to keep reading, but if you'd like to see more pictures of the July 21-25 Salem D.A.R.E. Camp, click here. Continue reading "Salem D.A.R.E. Camp: the tradition continues" » Andrew Lewis football practice & volleyball tryoutsPosted Jul24, 2008 at 04:00 PMOn August 4th, Andrew Lewis Middle School football and volleyball athletes need to be present to kick off the season. Football practice: 8 a.m., Monday August 4, at Salem High School Volleyball tryouts: 9-11 a.m., Monday August 4, at ALMS in the big gym Information submitted by Mike Akers. Roanoke College meshes ecology effortsPosted Jul23, 2008 at 12:23 PMIn case you missed it in today's paper (or haven't seen it yet on roanoke.com), Roanoke College is taking its green efforts to another level with its own Green Advisory Committee. Here's a link to the story by Pete Dybdahl. Salem and Roanoke County win grants to promote walking, biking to schoolPosted Jul17, 2008 at 04:02 PMBoth Salem and Roanoke County have won grants to promote walking and biking to school. The official release from the governor's office is below. Do you walk or bike to school? Or know someone who does? If so, leave a comment below or email us at news@sosalem.com Continue reading "Salem and Roanoke County win grants to promote walking, biking to school" » Glenvar Elementary gets grant to buy ActivboardPosted Jul11, 2008 at 04:53 PMGlenvar Elementary has received a $2,500 grant to buy an Activboard. What, you ask, is an Activboard? It's a kind of high-tech white board, which back in the day used to be called a blackboard, or even a chalkboard. But we've come a long way since chalk. Here's a You Tube video of an Activboard in, well, action. For details, see the official release below from Chuck Lionberger of the Roanoke County Schools. We had previous posts about Glenvar Elementary on June 9 and June 12. Continue reading "Glenvar Elementary gets grant to buy Activboard" » What happened at this week's Salem School Board meeting?Posted Jul10, 2008 at 02:35 PMSuperintendent Alan Seibert got a raise, and he'll remain in the position at least until 2012. Check out the story here. Orientation for the start of the 2008-2009 Roanoke County school year is coming upPosted Jul09, 2008 at 12:17 PM I know, I know...Students aren't ready to be burdened with thoughts of going back to school just yet because everyone is enjoying their summer break. But before too long it will be time- again - to buy those school supplies and new backpacks, pack them up, and get ready to start the school year once again. With that in mind, the Roanoke County School Board has announced the 2008 Orientation Schedule for Roanoke County Schools. If this applies to you, you might want to check it out by heading to the website here. And to all of you, don't fret! School doesn't start until August 25! You still have 47 days (including today) before school starts, so enjoy it while it lasts! -Emily Flora Photo by Chuck Lionberger: A judge measures the distance between the curb and the side of the school bus during the Region 6 Bus Rodeo event held May 3 at Hidden Valley Middles school. Willkomen! Guten Tag! Was machst du heute nachmittag?Posted Jul03, 2008 at 07:54 PM Zach Mills, a rising junior at Salem High School, will have spent nearly a month at the Virginia Governor's German Immersion Academy at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond on July 13. Mills, along with 44 other Virginian high school students, learned the language through usage in the cafeteria, in the dorm, on the soccer field, as well as in the classroom. Monday through Saturday, participants attend five unique and creative classes, such as East-West history, geography and culture, and music to encourage them to take an active part in their learning. Students will also be introduced to a second foreign language, taught through German. Afternoon activities such as cooking, soccer, volleyball, and ballroom dancing, photography, and journal writing fully immerse the students to make the language acquisition meaningful, practical, and lasting. Salem High alums tour EuropePosted Jul01, 2008 at 05:55 PM Venice, Rome, anybody? Fifteen recent alums of Salem High School are currently on a 17-day- and at least nine-city-whirlwind tour of Europe. Theresa Grey, Salem High School librarian, leads a tour each year (not affiliated with the school.) They'll be in Venice and Rome for the States' Independence Day. Cities on the itinerary: Here is a picture taken of five on June 25, before they headed up to Dulles Airport for their plane trip over the Atlantic. From right: Elizabeth McArthur, LeAnna Minnix, Amy McArthur, Theresa Grey, Krysti Nelson, and Sarah Hall. Not pictured: Nitya Reddy, Millie Leach, Nick Leftwich, Tristan MacDonald, and David Crotts
Photos from Salem art campPosted Jun27, 2008 at 09:17 AM For 12 years, Darlene Marshall, a teacher at South Salem Elementary, and Mike Gibson, the Salem High School art teacher, have helped put together the Salem Art Camp. It's a refuge for elementary and middle school students who want to take a break from the sun to foster their creativity. Elementary-age kids learn about artists and time periods and are given a little instruction. "What are the names of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles?," Marshall asked. One project included a book about Renaissance artists, and then the kids sculpted their very own turtle. Middle school students are given freedom to work on projects just like high schoolers would, learning life skills for art. "They're not being forced on them, they can kind of experiment and adventure," Gibson said. First photo: Caleb Underwood, right, and Sarah Tooley, left, learn to draw to scale and stylize. Second photo (courtesy of Mike Gibson): Christopher Clemens focuses on his sculpture. That's Emily Bell on the left.
Cruise for your School raises $1,251 for Glenvar High SchoolPosted Jun25, 2008 at 04:04 PM Forty eight test drives and a car wash by Glenvar High School students added up to success for the fundraiser, organized by Berglund Ford on East Main in Salem. We have a photo gallery of 11 photos from the event. Here's the complete press release: The June 21st Cruise 4 UR School fundraiser sponsored by Ford and Berglund Ford here in Salem raised $1, 251 for Glenvar High School. The one-day event invited people to test drive an assortment of 2008 Ford products and for every individual who participated, Ford and Berglund Ford donated $20 to Glenvar High School. “I want to thank the community for making this event a huge success,” said Robbie Brookshier of Berglund Ford. “This was a great way to show Berglund Ford’s support for our community’s youth.” “The money raised will go a long way in helping us take care of our students,” said Kevin Clifford, Football Coach of Glenvar High School. Continue reading "Cruise for your School raises $1,251 for Glenvar High School" » The not-so-typical life of a Gus Mitchell School graduatePosted Jun25, 2008 at 10:26 AM Graduation season has come and gone, and left Jorge Cuestas Jr. -- Lee to friends -- with a high school diploma. Photo by Josh Meltzer Roanoke County bus drivers place in state bus rodeo competitionPosted Jun19, 2008 at 09:49 AMThree Roanoke County school bus drivers and one driver's aide have placed in the state bus rodeo competition -- and two of them have ties to Salem and Glenvar. Becky Holt, who is from Salem (and is an aide on a special needs bus in the Northside area), took third place. Greg Lampert, who drives for Glenvar, also took third place. The other two winners -- Marie Pratt and Linda Turner -- also drive for Northside. Here's the official release from Chuck Lionberger of Roanoke County Public Schools: Continue reading "Roanoke County bus drivers place in state bus rodeo competition" » Refugee Girls Summer Program visits Roanoke CollegePosted Jun18, 2008 at 04:43 PM
“Can you spend the night here?” That was one of many questions asked by a group of 18 middle and high school girls during a visit to Roanoke College Wednesday morning. The visit was scheduled as part of the Refugee Girls Summer Program. This free program, sponsored by Refugee and Immigration Services and St. John’s Community Youth Program, is meant to expose young refugees from African and Middle-Eastern countries to various career possibilities and give them the necessary skills to pursue higher-education. Since many refugees come from places where education is either not possible or not encouraged, they face multiple challenges upon their arrival in the United States. Language barriers and a lack of basic education from their home country mean they are sometimes ill-prepared for placement in American schools where grade-level is based on age. This makes it difficult to even begin thinking about college. “It’s a cultural nightmare … You just can’t play that amount of catch-up,” said Margaret Whitt, instructional director of the Refugee Girls Summer Program. The purpose of Wednesday’s visit was to introduce the girls to the basics of college life; from what to call a college teacher to the difference between living “on-campus” and “off-campus.” “The guidance counselors aren’t talking to them about this kind of thing,” said Whitt as she introduced four pre-service teachers who would act as tour guides for the girls. The guides are all recent graduates or current students of the education department at Roanoke College. Continue reading "Refugee Girls Summer Program visits Roanoke College" » Parent photos from Glenvar graduationPosted Jun16, 2008 at 05:16 PM We asked folks to send in photos from graduation and Glenvar parent Carol McGuire has done just that. Thanks, Carol! Here's K.J. Ford, Erin Brookshire, Kayla Strickland and Jim McGuire. Below, Jim McGuire -- looking good for the camera. We have more Glenvar graduation photos from Carol McGuire in this photo gallery. And, of course, we posted our own photo gallery last week. If you have graduation photos from either Glenvar or Salem, you can share them at news@sosalem.com. And our special invitation to graduates is still open: Write your own graduation blurb on what you'll be doing next and we'll use it in an upcoming issue of So Salem. Here's how. Raise money for Glenvar High School -- test drive a Ford Saturday, June 21Posted Jun16, 2008 at 12:49 PM
Come out Saturday, June 21, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and test drive a new Ford at the Berglund on 834 East Main Street in Salem. For each person who takes a spin, Ford will donate $20 to GHS, up to $6,000. Berglund Ford writes: "Not only is this a great opportunity to generate much-needed funding for school activities, but it is also the perfect time to check out the 2008 Ford product lineup, which features new cars, trucks and crossovers loaded with cutting-edge safety, quality and design innovations." We had a previous post about Glenvar High School on June 12. Photos from Salem High School graduationPosted Jun13, 2008 at 06:59 PM Salem High School held its graduation today and we have a photo gallery from the event. Left: Morgan Puruczky scans the crowd. Photo by Erin Millar. And if you'd like to congratulate a graduate, you can leave a comment on this blog. Our last post about Salem High School was earlier today. Video of Salem student auditioning to give graduation speechPosted Jun13, 2008 at 09:53 AM If you've seen The Roanoke Times today, you may have seen the story in the Extra section about how Salem High School annually holds an "audition" among its many valedictorians to decide who will give the graduation speech. If not, here's the story -- along with profiles of the seven students who auditioned this year: Matt Lipscomb, Matt Constantin, Rachel Gresham, Nitya Reedy, Amy Sailer, Scott Bradford, and Leanna Minix And, finally, we have video of the winning audition. And check back on this blog -- we'll be posting a photo gallery from this afternoon's graduation. By the way, our last post about Salem High School was June 12. Amy Sailer auditions. Photo by Eric Brady. Construction at Andrew Lewis Middle SchoolPosted Jun12, 2008 at 02:49 PMIf you see a crane lurking around Andrew Lewis Middle School, don't worry -- the general's namesake will remain with the school. Last month's windstorm somehow pulled up the roof's rubber membrane, detaching the insulation and pulling the roof drains up. The third floor section of roof at the front of the school was left heavily damaged, wrinkled with several leaks. Although quick fixes to leaks were made, an insurance adjuster and a private roofing consultant evaluated the situation and determined that a new roof was needed on an emergency basis. The insurance settlement will pay $99,734, and the work will cost $99,872 plus a performance bond of $872. WA Lynch Roofing Company will perform the work, starting around June 18. The new roof will be fastened down instead of being sealed with tar. We had a previous post about Andrew Lewis Middle School earlier today. Photos from Glenvar High School graduationPosted Jun12, 2008 at 02:29 PM Glenvar High School held its graduation this morning and we already have a photo gallery from the event. Photo by Erin Millar If you have photos from graduation, you can share them at news@sosalem.com. And here's a reminder for graduates -- you can write your own graduation blurb and we'll run it for free in an upcoming issue of So Salem. Here's how. Salem High School graduates Friday and we'll have a photo gallery coming from there, as well. By the way, our last post about Glenvar High School was June 10. Students recognized by Salem City School BoardPosted Jun12, 2008 at 12:50 PM Sarah Hakkenberg was recognized for two achievements. She earned a Gold Medal Award and a Summa Cum Laude certificate for her placement in the 2008 National Latin Exam, the Latin II Competition. She also won a Gold Medal Award in 2007 in the Latin I Competition. Hakkenberg also finished second in the "Botany A" category for her presentation at the Virginia Junior Academy of Science at Hampton University May 20-22. Her paper entitled "The Effect of Different Types of Light on the Growth of Helianthus annus" examines the effects of growing sunflowers under regular incandescent bulbs versus the newer compact flourescent bulbs. She said that she expected the CF bulbs to win out over the incandescents, but her results indicated the opposite.
 Rey Cruz, Salem High student, won first place in the poster category. His theme was "Hands of Friendship". 
Clare Macdonald, Andrew Lewis student, won first place in the poem category. Her poem spoke of how anybody can be an everyday hero, from parents, to friends at school, to teachers, and beyond. 
For a photo gallery from the recognitions, click here.
Continue reading "Students recognized by Salem City School Board" » Mother sues Roanoke County schools over treatment of autistic son at Glenvar ElementaryPosted Jun12, 2008 at 12:11 PMThe mother of an autistic boy is suing the Roanoke County School Board for $100,000 plus interest, saying her child suffered serious setbacks after he was punished in October 2006 for an incident at Glenvar Elementary School. Courts reporter Mike Allen has details on this developing story. Photos from East Salem Elementary field dayPosted Jun11, 2008 at 02:59 PM Now parent Matt Chittum has sent us his photos -- so we've put them into a photo gallery. Matt has 14 photos, so between them, that's 36 photos from East Salem Elementary. Do you have photos from this or other events in Salem and western Roanoke County? If so, you can share them at news@sosalem.com. Salem kids awarded for good characterPosted Jun10, 2008 at 06:28 PM
The Taylor Masonic Lodge awarded bicycles to Haley Diamond and David Martin, GW Carver Elementary students for good character. Two students from each Salem city elementary school will receive a bike. Teachers submit a list of students deemed to have good character, and a boy and a girl are randomly selected from that group. The program was initiated by past Salem lodge master Joe Kropff. Photo: Haley Diamond and David Martin show off their new bikes, with current lodge master David Kidd on the right and past master Joe Kropff on the left. East Salem Elementary braves the heat for Field DayPosted Jun10, 2008 at 10:51 AM
Students at East Salem Elementary enjoyed a welcome break from class today and braved temperatures climbing near the 90 degree mark for their Annual Field Day celebration. With upbeat dance music blasting in the background from DJ Dale Bayless, students from kindergarten to fifth-grade participated in more than 24 events like “Noodle Fencing” and “Water Polo.” The event selection was complete with a dunking booth manned in shifts by parent volunteers. PTA president Faye Crute even took her turn at the mercy of softball-wielding kids. Crute was one of over 140 parents who signed up to take part in the day’s festivities. To beat the heat, field day organizers made sure to include plenty of opportunities for kids, parents and teachers to cool off. Shaded tents, inside games and water hoses helped, but the “sno-cones” and mist-tent were the clear favorites. East Salem has been giving students this end-of-the-year opportunity to let loose for about four years now. Also part of the Field Day tradition is the Fifth Grade Survivor Challenge—a special treat for fifth-graders, who are enjoying their last Field Day at East Salem. This year the Challenge included a tennis ball bounce-off and a tricycle race. For some, Field Day as a fifth-grader is bittersweet. “It’s kind of a mixed emotion. It’s like, I’m going to middle school, but I’ll still miss this place,” said fifth-grader Brianna Battaglia on leaving East Salem next year. For most students, though, Field Day is something to look forward to for years to come. Continue reading "East Salem Elementary braves the heat for Field Day" » Photo from Glenvar's first field day in 25 yearsPosted Jun09, 2008 at 05:34 PM
Chuck Lionberger of Roanoke County Public Schools sends us this photo from Glenvar Elementary's field day. Chuck says: "Students and staff at Glenvar Elementary held their first Field Day in more than 25 years on June 6. Every student took part in games and activities during the all-day event. While the weather was hot, there was plenty of fun and friendship." Do you have field day photos from Glenvar or any other school in Salem and western Roanoke County? If so, you can share them at news@sosalem.com
"Colonial Games" a success at West SalemPosted Jun06, 2008 at 05:08 PM
After SOLs and a long school year, what kid doesn't want to grab a Nintendo Wii, DS, or computer and go quickly and deeply into a game system coma? The fourth-graders at West Salem were given other alternatives on Friday, June 6, during "Colonial Games." Games collected from the 1700S to 1800s filled the school's gym, along with laughter and merriment from the students. Quoitz, nine-pins, marbles, pick-up sticks, dominoes, hoops, and other old-fashioned games were set up -- with volunteers and parents to help. "This is a culminating activity to our Virginia studies... our SOLs are over, and we studied so hard!" grade coordinator Shirley Shuler said. "We want to show them that they can do things without computers and gameboys." The students also wrote a resource paper about a famous or historical Virginian -- then crafted a doll, its face in art class, and the rest they did at home. Photo: Michael Chapman rolls during a game of nine pins while Matthew Gauck waits his turn. We also have a photo gallery from West Salem. Snakes alive! Student brings snake to graduationPosted Jun06, 2008 at 10:15 AM Here's something other graduation speakers this year might want to keep in mind about how to keep your audience's attention: Bring a snake. Drape it around your neck. Restless graduates and their parents are bound to pay attention then. That was the formula that eighth-grader Alex Bentley of Salem used last night, anyway. He's a student at Community School -- a private school near Hollins University that goes through eighth grade. (There's a related Community High School in downtown Roanoke.) It's the tradition at the school for each eighth grader to give a going-away speech at the school's year-end Celebration event. And, as previously reported in So Salem, Bentley likes snakes. Lots and lots of snakes. File photo by Miranda Adkins Continue reading "Snakes alive! Student brings snake to graduation" » Salem student selected as delegate to AustraliaPosted Jun05, 2008 at 10:39 PM
Sixth grade teachers at South Salem Elementary should be wary of assigning the “What I did over summer vacation” assignment to Renae Trail come this September. Her summer vacation might include pool days and maybe even a theme park, but for about three weeks, she’ll be a student-ambassador to Australia through the People to People program. The itinerary includes a trip, beginning this July 8, to the Great Barrier Reef, the Irwin family zoo, and many more opportunities to meet Australian people and wildlife. Reluctant at first, Renae is excited to experience new things, including “seeing what they eat—I heard they eat kangaroos and octopus, and we have to try it.” The program, established by President Dwight Eisenhower in 1956, was designed to bring citizens of different countries together in order to promote peace and understanding by sharing experiences and information. The 40-or-so-student group will be escorted by teachers and People to People representatives on their journey halfway across the world. Continue reading "Salem student selected as delegate to Australia" » No senior-skip-days for this graduating Glenvar studentPosted Jun05, 2008 at 09:52 PM
Amber Pratt doesn't have an immune system made of steel, magic cough drops, or a time machine--things that would be useful in attaining perfect attendance throughout one's entire school career. She has achieved that which becomes almost impossible, however, once senior year and "senioritis" begins. According to guidance secretary Shelia Huffman, she hasn't used too many tardies or left school early too often, either. Pratt explains that it has to do with the encouragement and expectations she learned early in her school career. "My parents wanted me to go every day, they encouraged me...there were times that I could've [skipped], but I was afraid that my mom would find out," she said. Our last post about Glenvar High School was June 3. Mention Fort Lewis Elementary at the Valley View Barnes & Noble this SaturdayPosted Jun05, 2008 at 01:01 PMHelp raise money for Fort Lewis Elementary by shopping at Barnes & Noble in Valley View Mall this Saturday. The bookstore will donate a percentage of those sales (when you mention Fort Lewis Elementary!) from 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. The public is also invited to join Fort Lewis for pet-themed fun and games between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Here’s the rundown of events: 11 a.m.:Storytime and make-your-own boat craft with Mental Health America - "Summertime Fun" All Day - Pet Trivia Scavenger Hunt, Candy Estimation Our last post about Fort Lewis Elementary School was May 28. The Class of ‘08 shout-out begins!Posted May28, 2008 at 03:09 PM
If you’re a graduating senior from Salem or Glenvar (or live in zip code 24153 and attend a private school or are home-schooled) , send us your blurb -- your favorite part of high school, what you’ll be doing next, and a photo -- to news@sosalem.com and we’ll use it in an upcoming issue. Summer, here we come! Photos from Fort Lewis field dayPosted May28, 2008 at 01:26 PM
Fort Lewis Elementary celebrated the end of the school year yesterday, May 28, with the well-known tradition of field day. With SOLs finished and nine days of school left, what better to do? Does your school have a field day or special end-of-year event coming up? Call our community journalist, Miranda Adkins, at 981-3342 with the date or send pictures of your students after the fact to news@sosalem.com! Photo: Adam Mitchell, left, and Paige Stinson, right, take a quick break while fellow fifth-graders spend the last few minutes of field day frolicking on the inflatable maze. Our last post about Fort Lewis Elementary was April 28. Ben Chester receives Pamplin Leader Award at Glenvar HighPosted May27, 2008 at 04:53 PM
The Pamplin Leader is a one-year, $1,000 tuition scholarship to Virginia Tech. It is presented annually to a top student from each public high school in Virginia. It was established by Robert B. Pamplin Sr. (VT, Class of ’33) and Robert B. Pamplin Jr., to acknowledge students with a record of outstanding achievement that is balanced with a commitment to community service and leadership experience. Photo courtesy of Ben Chester. Our last post about Glenvar High School was May 20. Coming to a local kindergarden near you!Posted May22, 2008 at 05:19 PM
First United Methodist Daycare and Preschool director Jane Butto and teachers Tracy Lintner, Vivien MacMahan, Susan Turner, and Debbie Holly shared a mixture of pride and sadness with parents and grandparents as 39 children graduated from preschool Wednesday, May 21. Virginia Tech football player Dustin Pickle visits with local studentsPosted May22, 2008 at 12:05 PM
Bright and early this Thursday morning, students involved with FCA, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, clubs around the valley met at First Baptist Church on Third Street in downtown Roanoke for their last meeting of the year. Special guests included Virginia Tech running back Dustin Pickle, his girlfriend, 2007 Miss Virginia Lauren Barnette, and Virginia Tech football chaplain Johnny Shelton. Pickle attended Glenvar High School until his junior year, when he transferred over to Salem High School. He graduated in 2005. Barnette is from Wise and is a student at VT. Top left, Glenvar crowd: from left, Rusty Galbreath, Thomas McConnell, Dustin Pickle, Brandon Fox, Zach Hill, Kelly Hill, and Heather Keating. Continue reading "Virginia Tech football player Dustin Pickle visits with local students" » Salem High School's Lindsay Maxwell wins top prize at art showPosted May19, 2008 at 03:28 PM
Salem High School's Lindsay Maxwell won Best in Show and also won the Wentworth Prize for Best Use of Media in her work "Aftermath". Keep reading for the complete press release of winners, and click here to go to the Salem High School website . Continue reading "Salem High School's Lindsay Maxwell wins top prize at art show" » East Salem's PTA yard sale a successPosted May19, 2008 at 02:53 PM
Kym writes: "Our parents and members of the school staff supported us wonderfully by getting to the school at 6am Saturday morning to help set-up. They were there all day to help straighten and organize the items. Others came later in the day to help take things down and haul unsold items to Goodwill. My mom, Becky Lester, was a huge help in making this such a success." Click here for our previous blog from May 15. Photo courtesy of Kym Tennant. Pledge to wear seatbelt brings rewards for eight Salem studentsPosted May15, 2008 at 08:58 PM Last month during two lunch periods, 387 Salem High students pledged to wear their seatbelts for an entire year as a gift to a friend or loved one. Eight of those students were randomly selected to win $50 or $100 cash prizes as a reward for their potentially life-saving promise. "You can't think about it when your car is sliding or someone is head-on toward you; you don't have time to buckle up," co-sponsor Sam Lionberger thanked them, citing two different accident victims, both family and family-friend, that would have survived if they had buckled up. Photo: front left to right Lt. Guthries, Chief Bryant, Kristi Davidson, Allison Shannon, Olivia Shingleton, Brook Blankenship, Kyle Walker, Kayla McKern, Rachel Gresham, Lt. Parries, Lt. Kennedy. Winner not pictured: Crystal Davis Continue reading "Pledge to wear seatbelt brings rewards for eight Salem students" » Massive yardsale at East Salem ElementaryPosted May15, 2008 at 09:20 AMLooking for a huge yard sale? Head out towards East Salem Elementary on Boulevard this Saturday, May 17 between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. There will be a plethora of various items including books, adult and children's clothing, household items, furniture, and more. The sale is sponsored by East Salem Elementary's PTA, which funds programs like field day, teacher appreciation week, supplies for classrooms, and useful things like a washer and dryer for the preschool program. National College’s spring graduation set for June 1Posted May13, 2008 at 05:22 PMVictor Giovanetti will speak at National College’s commencement on Sunday, June 1, at 3 p.m. More than 210 students are expected to receive degrees and diplomas. Giovanetti is the president and CEO of Lewis-Gale Medical Center, a Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) facility. He serves as Market Lead of HCA’s Southwest Virginia. Giovanetti started his healthcare career as a firefighter, paramedic, and served as a senior flight paramedic. Our last post about National College was May 13. National College students win 1st Place in state competitionPosted May13, 2008 at 03:33 PM
Three Medical Assistant students, Stephanie Einhellig, Cynthia Adams, and Holly Fitch, won first place in a state-wide medical terminology competition April 25. They competed with students from two other Virginia Colleges. Einhellig won first place in the individual competition. At the event, they were among approximately 150 participants who enjoyed several workshops and seminars in two days. In addition to taking home a cash prize, the students also learned the importance of being involved with a professional affiliation and networking. Photo: National College students and Director of Health Care Education MJ Williams are pictured on the far left with Medical Terminology competitors at the VSMA spring state convention. Courtesy of National College. Our last post about National College was May 9. Salem senior Ben Critz receives scholarshipPosted May13, 2008 at 10:43 AM
The Roanoke Regional Home Builders awarded three $500 scholarships to three students. Benjamin L. Critz (at left), a graduating senior at Salem High School and Andrew M. Kellinger, a graduating senior from Cave Spring High School and Arnold R. Burton School of Engineering and Construction at Virginia Tech, both plan to seek bachelors in science in Building Construction at Virginia Tech. Recipient Seth W. Carwhile of Blacksburg just competed his second year of studies within the same program at Virginia Tech. Kellinger’s scholarship was made possible by the family of the late Wayne Morris of C.W. Morris Construction Co. in Goodview. Continue reading "Salem senior Ben Critz receives scholarship" » Salem HS Spring Concert tonight!Posted May12, 2008 at 10:26 AMThe Salem High School Choral Department will be presenting their annual Spring Concert on Monday, May 12 at 7:00 pm in the high school auditorium. Admission is free and open to the public. The Concert Choir, Select Treble Chorus, Chorale and Salem Singers will be performing a variety of music, including Broadway, Pop, Classical and Jazz. Don't miss this wonderful evening of family entertainment! Our last posts about Salem High School were on May 5, when we posted softball photos and After Prom photos. Is someone in your family graduating from college this spring?Posted May09, 2008 at 07:22 PMIs there someone from Salem or western Roanoke County in your family graduating from college this spring? If so, let us know, so we can feature them in an upcoming issue of So Salem. You can e-mail a photo and information to: news@sosalem.com (And if you have a high school senior from Salem or Glenvar in your family, check this out.) Attention, high school seniors!Posted May09, 2008 at 03:12 PMHere's a message for all high school seniors in Salem and western Roanoke County, whether you're at Salem, Glenvar, a private school or home-schooled: Now that you’re graduating, it’s time to look both forwards -- and backwards. What was your favorite part of high school? And what do you plan on doing this fall, or beyond? E-mail us your photo and your thoughts at news@sosalem.com so we can feature them in an upcoming issue of So Salem. Deadline is May 26. Job Fair at National College draws a crowdPosted May09, 2008 at 09:02 AM On Tuesday, over 400 people and 27 companies gathered in the halls of National College to distribute and collect information, resumes, and applications. Many of the employers stated that they were pleased with the turnout and were able to gather multiple resumes and applications, according to Cathy Fortune, Career Center Director. Check out our blog below for some of the companies present. Autotech kids take third at state competitionPosted May06, 2008 at 07:00 PM
Students from Arnold R. Burton Technology Center competed in the Ford/AAA contest on April 18th and 19th at Richmond international aviation museum. Stephen Richardson and Josh Lingenfelter placed top two out of the team of 10 in the written exam that is used to qualify the students to move to the state competition. The written test was taken by 33 schools this year, approximately 330 students. This makes the third year in a row that Arnold R. Burton students have competed in the Ford AAA competition at the state level. The students won approximately $20,000 in scholarships each, along with tools. Photo: Stephen Richardson and Josh Lingenfelter. Courtesy of Joe Moore. Continue reading "Autotech kids take third at state competition" » Photos from Salem - Hidden Valley softball gamePosted May05, 2008 at 03:33 PM Quigg Lawrence sends us these photos from Friday's softball game between Salem and Hidden Valley, which Salem won 5-1. Here's pitcher Ellen Weaver, who struck out nine and picked up the win. Below, another picture of Weaver on the mount -- and Jamie Price, who scored two runs and knocked in an RBI. Do you have photos from sports events -- or any event -- involving teams or people from Salem and western Roanoke County? You can share 'em with us at news@sosalem.com. Continue reading "Photos from Salem - Hidden Valley softball game" » Job fair set for Tuesday at National CollegePosted May05, 2008 at 12:54 PMIf you're looking for a job, come dressed in your interview-wear with resume in hand to National College on Tuesday for a job fair. The event is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Salem campus at 1813 East Main Street. Here are a few employers that will be there: City of Roanoke Continue reading "Job fair set for Tuesday at National College" » Photos from Salem High School's After PromPosted May05, 2008 at 12:05 PM
We had previous posts about Salem High School on May 5 and May 2. We also have photos from the Glenvar High School after prom. Photos from Glenvar High School's After PromPosted May05, 2008 at 09:34 AM Glenvar held its prom Saturday and our paparazzi photo crew was there at the after prom event. For more photos, click here. We'll also have photos in this Friday's print edition of So Salem. We had previous posts about Glenvar High School on April 16 and on April 25. We also have photos from the Salem High School after prom. Pictured here: Mark Tressler, Keri Austin, D.J. Gearhart, Shannon Lowe, Graig Russell, Morgan Sizemore, Timothy Dailey, Chelsea Waldron of Glenvar. Salem High students help fix up widow's housePosted May02, 2008 at 04:35 PM Salem High School anatomy students (and some of their parents) spent time Saturday, April 26 to help paint, fix gutters, and landscape Phyllis Harmon's home on Keagy Road. Harmon recently lost her husband. Sherwin Williams of Salem, Mac & Bob's, Reynold's Siding, and Pine Ridge Nursery made donations, and the Roanoke Valley Foundation provided some scholarship money. Photo and information courtesy of Chris Tucker, Salem High Anatomy teacher. HopeTree plans new education buildingPosted May02, 2008 at 09:36 AMHopeTree Family Services, formerly the Virginia Baptist Children's Home, is planning a big expansion -- a new $6.5 million multipurpose education facility. For more details, see today's news story. We had a previous post about HopeTree on April 30. New Salem City Director of Student Services is expecting appointmentPosted Apr30, 2008 at 03:44 PM
Dr. Darryl Helems has been recommended to the Salem School Board for appointment as Director of Student Services for Salem City Schools. According to Salem school superintendent, Alan Seibert, an interview team met selected Dr. Helms out of several well-qualified applicants for the position. Seibert recommended him to the position, and the school board is expected to approve the appointment at its next scheduled meeting on May 13. If approved, Helems begins the new job July 1, 2008. After receiving his Ph.D. in Counselor Education from Virginia Tech, Helems began his career as a school psychologist with Franklin County Public Schools. Since 2001, he has served in a variety of leadership roles including as a school psychologist. Photo courtesy of Salem City Schools website. Golden Apple Award goes to Arnold R. Burton’s Chris OverfeltPosted Apr30, 2008 at 12:27 PM
Roanoke County Public Schools Education Foundation awarded Overfelt with top honors at their 5th annual Golden Apple reception at the Holiday Inn in Roanoke last Wednesday, April 23. The program is designed to recognize and honor teachers who have made a positive impact on their students. The Motorsports Technology teacher was chosen from over 100 nominations and three finalists. Each finalist received $500 and the Golden Apple Winner received $3,000. Left to right: Arnold R. Burton Technology Center principal Andy McClung; 2008 Golden Apple Award winner Chris Overfelt; 2008 Golden Apple Award finalist Ginger Cromer; Superintendent Dr. Lorraine Lange; School Board member David Wymer. Photo courtesy of Roanoke County Schools Continue reading "Golden Apple Award goes to Arnold R. Burton’s Chris Overfelt" » John McAfee, software mogul, is Roanoke College’s keynote commencement speakerPosted Apr29, 2008 at 01:44 PM
This Saturday, May 3, McAfee will deliver the keynote address at his alma mater to approximately 429 degree recipients and their friends, family, and professors. The commencement ceremony begins at 10 a.m. on the front lawn of the college and will be moved inside, to the Bast Gym, in case of inclement weather. Roanoke College's baccalaureate service will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 2 in the Bast Center. Rev. Paul Henrickson, Timothy L. Pickle Dean of the Chapel at Roanoke, will be the featured speaker. McAfee graduated from RC in 1967 with a mathematics degree. On his way to becoming a prominent leader in the field of technology, he founded Interpath Inc. in 1981 (developing the world’s first commercial voice recognition system), McAfee Inc. in 1989 (developing the world’s first virus scanner), and Tribal Voice Inc. in 1996 (developing the world’s first instant messaging program). He also worked with a number of technology companies, including General Electric, Univac, Lockheed Martin, Xerox, Siemens and IBM in computer technology and management capacities. In between companies he traveled the world and lived for extended periods in Brazil, Germany, England, Mexico, India and Hong Kong. McAfee currently lives in New Mexico and Belize and is developing technology programs for third world countries. McAfee's name graced the news last year with an auction on his vacation home in Colorado.
Local school nutrition managers recognized for milk mustaches and more…Posted Apr29, 2008 at 12:06 PMKathy Stackpole at Arnold R. Burton Technical Center, Virginia Heffley at Clearbrook Elementary School, Kimberly E. Stevens at Hidden Valley High, and Walter D. Reed at Cave Spring High were awarded for various projects and landmarks by the School Nutrition Association of Virginia (SNA-VA). Reed earned the credential “School Nutrition Specialist”, the highest accolade in the profession. Continue reading "Local school nutrition managers recognized for milk mustaches and more…" » Salem man receives prestigious summer fellowshipPosted Apr29, 2008 at 11:06 AMGeoffrey Bader, Roanoke College student and Salem High graduate, was selected for a summer undergraduate research fellowship from the American Society of Plant Biologists. He is the first Roanoke College student to receive the fellowship. For his research on the “Uptake and Efflux of Auxin and Polar Auxin Transport in Land Plant Gametophytes”, which will last about ten weeks, he’ll receive a $3,000 stipend in order to devote a full-time effort to the study. The study will address important issues concerning the evolution of auxin, a hormone plants rely on in order to grow, develop, and function. Bader will also receive the opportunity to present the results at the society’s annual meeting in Hawaii next year. Bader has been working with Dr. Dorothy Belle Poli, assistant professor of biology at RC. Spring Flang (fling, past tense) at Fort Lewis Elementary Saturday!Posted Apr28, 2008 at 07:21 PM
Not many kids and not all parents escaped without a face-painting by Katherine Devine, and almost all of the fifth-graders took their turn at the dunking booth, where their teacher, Mr. Moeller, sat. A police S.W.A.T. truck sat outside with officers answering student’s queries, to boot. Here's a link to some pictures that we took of fun lovin' families at the Spring Fling. Faith Christian School spends day on service project in western Roanoke CountyPosted Apr26, 2008 at 09:02 PMAbout 300 students, parents and faculty from Faith Christian School in Southwest Roanoke County spent much of Saturday on a service project at the Rescue Mission summer day camp in western Roanoke County. Here's a story and photos on our companion news site for Southwest Roanoke County. Roanoke County students learn to fly-fish in SalemPosted Apr24, 2008 at 08:44 AMSome Roanoke County students have been learning the art of fly-fishing in a Saturday morning class by the banks of the Roanoke River just off Colorado Street in Salem. We have a story, and photos from the riverbank, on our companion news site for Southwest Roanoke County. Fort Lewis Spring Fling carnival SaturdayPosted Apr22, 2008 at 02:28 PM
Fort Lewis Elementary’s Spring Fling is coming up on Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The school is featuring story time themes in its carnival games, face painting by Katherine Devine, and blowup obstacle course by Dave’s Moonwalk. Their silent auction will have items from local businesses and sports memorabilia such as a football autographed by the 2008 Virginia Tech Team. 
Roanoke College has fun with search for mascotPosted Apr21, 2008 at 06:22 PMRoanoke College is searching for a mascot to go along with its traditional school namesake and athletic colors, the Maroons, and they’re not afraid to have fun with it. "We’re hopeful that over the next several months… [we’ll] put a face to the name, the vision, of Roanoke College," athletic director Scott Allison said. The school, along with local company ***Abeedle.com, created a Web site, www.ClassicCollege.com, where anyone can post an idea for RC’s future mascot. A century ago, the intramural baseball team ended up using maroon uniforms instead of yellow and blue, the school’s academic colors. The Brackety-Ack, the school’s newspaper, began calling the team the Maroons, and it stuck. According to the Web site, mascot ideas for RC that didn’t make it included the Daisies, the Express, Harry (a living mascot from the 1930s), the Alert, and the Lutherans. Within the past month, the college posted 11 "rejected" ideas in video form to get the mascot discussion rolling. With names like "Agatha, Princess of the Night," "The Roanoke Rassler," and "The Roanoke Klingon," the "rejected" videos have been posted on YouTube as well as on ClassicCollege. (You can find links in our previous coverage.) ***Correction: Abeedle.com assisted Roanoke College in its search for a mascot and the site www.ClassicCollege.com. New City Media is involved with a redesign of the college's main web site at www.roanoke.edu . Continue reading "Roanoke College has fun with search for mascot" » Roanoke College is looking for a mascotPosted Apr17, 2008 at 07:10 PMRoanoke College is looking for a new mascot. They aren't doing away with their beloved Maroons, which has served the school well for a century. No, what they want is the physical embodiment of Maroon, something that can dance on the sidelines. The school's trying to have some fun with the search. It even has videos showing some options it's rejected. Don't miss The Rationalist, the Klingon, and of course Agatha, Princess of the night. Advisory: You MUST watch that one until the very end. For details, check out our Round Table blog. Or click "comments" below to weigh in with your opinions. Alumni weekend at Roanoke College features sports, musicPosted Apr17, 2008 at 04:58 PMRoanoke College’s Alumni Weekend offers a whole slew of events, some that are open to the general public: The women’s lacrosse team plays Guilford College at 4 p.m. on Friday in Kerr Stadium. The ODAC Division III track meet will be held at the Bast Track part of Friday and Saturday from around 10 a.m. to around 5 p.m. The men’s lacrosse team plays Lynchburg College Saturday at 7 p.m. in Kerr Stadium. For more on Roanoke College sports, click here. Corynne Wilder, Roanoke College alumna and Salem native, will bring her band Afterdawn to play in Olin Theatre on Saturday at 8 p.m. Check out our previous blog post about Wilder. Acapella Carnivella, a collection of college acapella groups from the area and beyond, including Roanoke College’s acapella groups, will begin the annual concert at 4 p.m. A donation is required at the door for the Roanoke College Habitat for Humanity chapter. “Simon Says” at Glenvar High School this weekendPosted Apr16, 2008 at 03:33 PM
This Thursday and Friday, the Highlanders are putting on a show with a collection of scenes from one of America’s best playwrights, complete with a 360-degree rotating stage. Curtain call at Glenvar High School is 7:30 p.m. and tickets will be $5 for adults and $4 for students. The rotating stage was built specifically for the play: “It’s a 19-foot stop sign, basically” assistant director Dale Bayless said. The cast and crew are welcoming everyone to a tailgate on Friday beginning at 5:30 p.m. $4 will get you a hot dog or hamburger, two sides and a drink. Continue reading "“Simon Says” at Glenvar High School this weekend" » One more Salem Forensic State Champs sign to be added to city limitsPosted Apr14, 2008 at 03:19 PMThe Salem High School Forensics team won its third consecutive state title this past Saturday, April 12. Several members took home individual titles, too. Here’s a link to SHS’s homepage with pictures and names of the winners. Also, here’s a link for the Spartan's Forensic Team.
Pirate Party at G.W. Carver a successPosted Apr14, 2008 at 09:50 AM The “Aaaarghs” were a’plenty (and the kids and parents, too) as G.W. Carver Elementary was transformed into something between a pirate party and a carnival, complete with Sammy the Macaw and an elaborate cardboard schooner. Kids had photo opportunities in the lifelike pirate ship, tons of games and pirate services to choose from like hair, fingernail, and face painting, and other lottery events to sign up for, too. G.W. Carver kids could take a chance at walking D.A.R.E. Officer Chelgreen off the plank or at being Principal for the Day alongside Principal Trula Byington. Parents bid on items like an autographed Duke basketball poster, gift baskets, and even bid on a 1999 Pontiac Montana minivan. Connor McCauley was the lucky winner for principal of the day and the final bid on the minivan was $4150. And see some more pictures here! Arnold R. Burton masonry students showcase skillsPosted Apr10, 2008 at 10:10 PM Although they've been working on it for the past few months, specially engraved bricks were installed Wednesday, April 9 on the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce's walk. For information on purchasing a brick, call 387-0267. You can also read our previous blog post about the project. At left: Megan Lyle and classmates professionally set the walk. Pirate Party this Saturday at G.W. Carver ElementaryPosted Apr07, 2008 at 02:31 PM G.W. Carver Elementary School in Salem is throwing a Pirate Party 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 12. The pirate-themed carnival will include lazer tag, obstacle courses, refreshments, carnival games, a silent auction with gift baskets, certificates, and merchandise from local businesses, a pirate outfitter’s shop (if you don’t have your own pirate gear), crafts, and an entertainment (books, dvds, etc.) sale. All proceeds will go to the GWC PTA school programs and technology. Salem HS is alive with “The Sound of Music” this Thursday through SaturdayPosted Apr02, 2008 at 01:59 PM
The cast of 57, crew, budget (and, hopefully, the audience) are the largest in Rachel Sailer’s 20 years of experience as stage director. An orchestra of 18 student instruments plus a keyboard and a modern sound system are a first for the program, as well. “We have twenty-seven extra nuns. It really gives you a nice, full sound,” Sailer said, as the nuns opened the dress rehearsal effectively with the opening number. Photo: The nun-governess, Maria, played by Rena Glavas, is surrounded by Captain Von Trapp’s (Matt Lipscomb) children as she teaches them to sing “Do Re Mi”. Check out trivia and information on the 1965 movie “The Sound of Music” here and here. Teen Writing Contest begins April 1 and lasts through April 30Posted Apr01, 2008 at 03:43 PMThe Salem Public Library is accepting entries for a teen writing contest throughout the month of April. The two qualifying age categories are 11-14 and 15-18. The contest is open to any teen in the area, not just Salem City residents. Poems and stories can be typed or neatly written, but can be no longer than 10 pages and within a PG-13 rating. Teens can enter up to five writings. The overall winner will receive an MP3 player, with prizes for the top three finishers in each age group. Winners will be announced Monday, May 5, 2008. New trustees announced at Roanoke CollegePosted Apr01, 2008 at 12:17 PMFour trustees, all alumni from Roanoke College, were announced Friday, March 28 as members to the Board of Trustees. Kenneth J. Belton, Sr., ’81, Pamela L. Cabalka, ‘76, Judith B. Hall ’69, and Andrew J. O’Keefe ’80. Belton, named to the RC Hall of Fame in 2000, earned a B.A. in Criminal Justice and holds the record for the highest shooting percentage in school history. He is currently a project manager for Shiloh Baptist Church’s expansion project in Salem. Continue reading "New trustees announced at Roanoke College" » Salem High School forensic team to perform April 8Posted Mar28, 2008 at 08:36 PMThe two-time defending state champion Salem High School forensic team will perform at High Point Coffee at Brambleton Plaza on April 8 as a tune-up for the VHSL state competition. For more info about High Point, check out our cut'n'scratch music blog. Roanoke College upcoming events open to the public:Posted Mar21, 2008 at 12:36 PMLate March to early April RC events: March 27 at 4:45 p.m.: A lecture by 2007 Pulitzer Prize winner, Hank Klibanoff, no charge March 29 at 6:30 p.m.: A senior voice recital by Rose Stephens-Booker April 1 at 7:30 p.m.: A reading of his short story "Boone: A Biography" by Robert Morgan, no charge. This is Morgan's latest book; it was placed on The Washington Post's "Best Books of 2007" list. April 3 at 7:30 p.m.: A lecture by Sandra Harding “Gender and Science: New Issues”, no charge April 5 at 8:00 p.m.: A swing dance with Martha and the Moodswingers in Alumni Gym, $5 (lessons at 1:00 and 2:15, $5 per person per session) April 7 at 7:30 p.m.: A lecture by Joseph Cummins “Anything for a Vote: Mudslinging…”, no charge April 12 at 8:00 p.m.: Kandinsky’s Trio Concert: 20th Anniversary Season Finale, $15 for general public, $10 for senior citizens and students April 13 at 3:00 p.m.: Roanoke College's Children's Choir: "A Little Spring Music", $17 for general public, $14 for senior citizens, $11 for children 12 and under, at The Jefferson Center. April 15 at 7:30 p.m.: A lecture by Alan Dershowitz, a continuation of RC's series "Exploration and Discovery" April 17 at 7:30 p.m.: The Roanoke College Wind and Jazz ensembles will present a joint concert in Olin Theatre, no charge Roanoke College News and Public Calendar More Interested in Collegiate Lacrosse, Baseball, Softball, Track, Tennis, or Golf??? Glenvar students to perform at Jeff Center April 10Posted Mar13, 2008 at 04:27 PM Eight students from Glenvar High School will be featured in a musical performance at the Jefferson Center on April 10. Here's the scoop: Many of you are familiar with the annual show that the students from the Kevin Jones Performing Arts Studio put on each year at The Jefferson Center. This year, it packed the auditorium for two straight shows. Well, Kevin -- whose studio is in the Cave Spring area -- also teaches at the Roanoke County Center for the Performing Arts and has a similar show coming up featuring the center's students on Thursday, April 10 at 7:30 p.m. Continue reading "Glenvar students to perform at Jeff Center April 10" » Timothy Moran represents Salem in spelling beePosted Mar12, 2008 at 11:44 AM
Timothy Moran of East Salem Elementary School will represent Salem in this week's 35th Annual Spelling Bee. The event is Saturday, March 15, 9 a.m., at the Holiday Inn-Roanoke Airport, and is open to the public. The winner of this regional bee will advance to the Scripps National Bee in Washington in May. We'll have coverage in Sunday's Roanoke Times and on roanoke.com.
Kindergarten registration continues this weekPosted Mar11, 2008 at 12:15 PMSalem City Schools are registering five-year-olds for kindergarten until this Friday, March 14. Here's a link to a PDF of the registration flier. |
About this blog
Welcome to The Notebook, the community gathering place for news and tidbits from So Salem, by community journalist Miranda Adkins (that's Miranda on the left). You'll be able to find the most up-to-date news, events and stories in Salem, Glenvar and western Roanoke County here at this blog. And please join in! You can share your comments, stories, links and ideas here, too. This is your community conversation. .....Advertisement.....
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