Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SATURDAY, May 8, 1993 TAG: 9305100274
SECTION: EDITORIAL PAGE: A-7 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Lack of cooperation in the past has created a stalemate in efforts to unite the valley in a common goal and has created a stigma in developing better race relations. One part of our community doesn't want to become involved with another. All areas are experiencing the same problems, or will be in the near future if something isn't done. And it entails more than a Band-Aid.
Valley leaders should call a community meeting, so that people could express their views on what they feel is needed to improve the economic situation. If there is a just cause and citizens are made to feel a part, they will come. Advertise these meetings. There is no part of our community that is unimportant.
Anyone should be able to surmise that a centrally located government would cut operational costs and be an attractive proposition to encourage business venture in the valley. This could be the answer to how we can stimulate economic growth and best serve the needs of the community.
Area governments have created a separatist attitude and caused citizens to distance themselves from each other. This creates a cloud of doubt concerning existing problems of each community and a lack of interest among citizens.
Wouldn't it be a disaster if unity could be the beginning of the resolution of our problems and we didn't take advantage of it?
A vision without substance is no better than a dream that hasn't come true. WILLIAM D. STALLARD ROANOKE
by CNB