Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, March 3, 1994 TAG: 9403030233
SECTION: NEIGHBORS PAGE: W-9 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
I would like to thank Appalachian Power Co. employees for their hard work after the recent winter storm. They did a wonderful job in Roanoke of restoring power in a short amount of time.
The two workers who came to my house were very friendly, even though they were working double shifts. One had not had power restored to his own home, but he was concerned about restoring service to older people and families first. These good folks are a fine example of what a special place our community is.
Although my family enjoyed being without power and television for a change, we were grateful when the power line was removed from my son's car. We had a wonderful chance to sit around the fire, tell stories and play games like we did when I was very young.
Hollins Hardware Store down the street stayed open every day, and the Stop In store had all the food we needed. What an opportunity for people to get together and help each other out.
Apco workers are the ones who had the chance to really do some good, and I think they should be highly commended.\ Sincerely, Stephen A. Mason Roanoke County\ \ Dear Neighbors:
I want to write a few words in support of First Union Bank. I regretted the loss of Dominion Bank, but we must be thankful for the opportunities that First Union has presented our valley since making its appearance.
As with any new venture, things are not the same. With time, patience and support, this institution will be a valuable asset to our valley and our state.\ Sincerely,\ Walter H. Dickey\ Roanoke\ \ Dear Neighbors:
The students in the Administration of Justice (236 and 237) classes at Virginia Western Community College would like to recognize the exceptional teaching ability of the staff.
The staff, with years of knowledge and experience to pass on to students, teaches law enforcement topics. We hope to gain some of that knowledge and experience as we move toward careers in law enforcement.
One of the teachers is Renee Banks, and we would like to express our thanks to her. She has the ability to bring quiet people out of their shells and get them involved in the class. With her experience in the field, she is able to bring true examples into the classroom.\ Tracey Berry\ Buchanan Editor's note: This letter was signed by 15 other students.\ \ Dear Neighbors:
I would like to address the use of 900 telephone numbers and how to block them.
When I received my December bill from C&P (now Bell Atlantic), I found that on Dec. 20, 1993, a 900 number had been dialed from my phone at 3:15 a.m.
Upon investigation, I learned that a visiting young relative, who has emotional problems, had dialed the number to hear his horoscope. The charge was $60.92 (15 minutes at $3.99 a minute).
Callers must say they are over 18 years of age. I called C&P and was given a 900 information number with AT&T. I called, only to be laughingly told, "Sorry, that's too bad."
After being told that twice, I spoke to an AT&T supervisor, who took the the call off my bill but informed me that I could be charged at a later date.
I was told to call C&P and get a 900 block on my phone.
I did, at no charge. [AT&T officials say, however, that local phone companies may charge a small fee to establish the service.]
Others might also like to know that 900 call operators do not verify the callers' ages. As long as they say they are 18, the call is put through.\ Thanks, Linda Allman Roanoke
by CNB