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

DATE: SATURDAY, April 23, 1994                   TAG: 9404240001
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C-3   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: By JOEL TURNER STAFF WRITER
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

WINDSOR HILLS HAS A CANDIDATE

"We have to prepare those who are not going to college to enter the job market. We need to emphasize vocational education for those who go straight into the job market," he said.

Denney is the second candidate to enter what will be the county's first School Board election. He said Friday that he will seek the Windsor Hills seat on the board in the November election.

"I have concerns about the schools, as a citizen and taxpayer," Denney said. "By and large, the School Board does a good job, but I believe it can do better."

Denney, 49, said the board needs to run the schools within available means without continually asking the Board of Supervisors for more money.

The School Board has asked the supervisors for an additional $1.6 million for the next fiscal year to balance its budget.

Denney, a quality control reviewer for the state Department of Social Services, said he has been interested in schools for many years, even though he does not have children in school.

"By not having children in school, I think I can be more objective and less biased," he said.

Charlsie Pafford, the current Windsor Hills representative, has not disclosed whether she will seek another term.

Under the current system, the county Circuit Court names a selection commission that appoints board members.

Denney said he favors the elected system because it gives voters a voice.

This is the first time he has sought elected office. He has been active in several community groups, including the Roanoke Jaycees.

The Vinton and Hollins seats on the School Board also are up for election in November.

Earlier this week, Evelyn Ball said she would seek the Vinton District seat now held by Barbara "Bootie" Chewning, who has not said whether she will run.

Jerry Canada, who represents the Hollins District, is expected to run.

The seats of Chairman Frank Thomas, of Catawba, and Vice Chairman Maurice "Buck" Mitchell, of Cave Spring, will be up for election in November 1995.

The deadline for candidates to file a petition signed by 125 registered voters is Aug.26.

County officials said earlier that the deadline would be June15, but county Registrar Elizabeth Leah said the School Board election will be treated as a special election, so the filing deadline can be later.