Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SATURDAY, September 11, 1993                   TAG: 9310280322
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A7   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

RAIL CHIEF HAS MYOPIC VISION

One could not expect a more myopic view coming from Norfolk Southern Chairman David Goode, who tipped his hand when he stated in his speech, "Passenger trains (that) run on the same lines as coal trains and (freight) trains ... can be a serious disruption on the freight system, causing delays and slowdowns in an increasingly competitive rail environment."

This clearly shows the attitude of today's railroad executives. It evidences the fact that all rail carriers want in this day and time is freight, freight and more freight. They want the cream of the freight service, such as automobiles, piggyback freight and other high-volume freight. And let's not forget "King Coal."

It is my understanding that Goode is a tax attorney and that's where his expertise lies. Obviously, he has no hands-on experience in the practical and daily operation of trains out in the field.

I speak from 50 years experience as a retired freight-and-ticket agent and telegrapher when I say that it can be done without delays to freight trains, and that passenger trains can and have been run in such a manner. All it takes is proper planning on the part of the train-dispatching forces. I saw it work when the N&W ran approximately 18 passenger trains a day between Roanoke and Norfolk. If any trains were delayed, it was virtually always the passenger trains - not the freight.

Would the operation of one passenger train a day on the Norfolk Southern seriously hamper and/or delay the operation of freight-train service? Not if Goode had experienced people running his trains for him.

Such an attitude as Goode's clearly displays a disdain for the people of the Roanoke Valley who need and deserve some form of passenger-train service through this area.

VERNON E. JONES

ROANOKE

Beyer's a leader for Virginia

DON Beyer built an outstanding record as a successful businessman and dedicated community leader before entering the political arena. As lieutenant governor, he has demonstrated initiative and a willingness to tackle tough issues.

He believes the key to Virginia's progress and prosperity lies in demanding personal responsibility from citizens, accountability from government and achieving results.

As lieutenant governor, Beyer chaired the Economic Bridge Initiative, promoting economic development and regional cooperation between Southwest and Northern Virginia. He has demonstrated leadership on welfare reform, child support and opportunities for Virginians with disabilities.

Beyer is not a one-issue candidate. He is experienced and understands Virginia's needs. We need his leadership in Richmond.

DEAN ALLEN

BLACKSBURG

It may be news to Robb

YOU LET one slip by. A recent article in the Roanoke Times & World-News stated that Gov. Wilder was not happy with the president's endorsement of Chuck Robb for re-election to the Senate. Wilder should know that in Washington this is called: "You rub my back (again) and I'll sell you my vote to increase taxes."

The slip you made was not sending Robb a copy of your November 1992 edition announcing that Virginia did not help elect Slick Willie. Perhaps someone should read the paper to Robb, Boucher and the other Democratic sheep from Virginia who lined up to vote for this latest tax increase. We thoroughly enjoy, and always get a good laugh, out of your editorial comments that bring a balanced view, from left-wing to far left-wing

WILLIAM K. KELLARIS

ROANOKE