ROANOKE TIMES

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

DATE: SUNDAY, June 4, 1995                   TAG: 9506050005
SECTION: CURRENT                    PAGE: NRV-2   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium


HEAD START OFFERS TWO PROGRAMS

Thank you for your article in the May 18 Current "No Handouts Here" on New River Community Action's history, philosophy and services.

I would like to clarify our Head Start Program. The program offers both center-base and home-base Head Start programs. The former includes transportation to and from the Head Start centers for children. The home-base program provides families a 90-minute weekly visit from a Head Start family educator. The purpose of this program is to build upon the parents' natural talents as the child's first educators, as well as working with parents to promote the child's good health and nutrition. Families in both programs work with staff on promoting the family's growth and change. Many parents choose the home-base program as their preferred option. Some families enroll in home-base because they are off the van run for the other program. A few families are fortunate to experience both models: home-base while the child is age 3 and center-base while the child is 4.

Terry D. Smusz, Executive Director

New River Community Action

Christiansburg

Listener bemoans `Magic' transition

It takes a lot to tick me off. I'm usually good-natured and easygoing, but this Rock 105 transition to "Magic" 105 is just too much!

When you turn on the radio, all you hear is dance/easy listening or country. Rock 105 was a nice alternative. Not any more! The new management has sadly decided to jump on the pop bandwagon. Maybe they should rename the station "Tragic" 105.

I'll go back to listening to tapes and miss a good friend that I once enjoyed listening to while working, playing and driving. The New River Valley's loss is truly tragic.

Chris Robinson

Christiansburg

Injured officer grateful for support

I would like to thank the law enforcement community, the citizens of Christiansburg and the many friends and loved ones who showed great concern for me after my accident. I am very grateful for the cards, flowers, fruit baskets and phone calls that I received. They were a tremendous boost to my spirit.

I feel very fortunate to have received such an outpouring of support. Thank each and every one of you for your thoughts and prayers. I will always be grateful.

Officer Bill Baker

Christiansburg

Editor's Note: Officer Bill Baker was injured in a crash in February when the car he was driving was involved in a collision while he was responding to a call. He has returned to duty after a broken kneecap mended.

Living in Virginia taxing to elderly

People of Virginia, especially retirees, should check into the tax system of other states before deciding to settle in Virginia to spend your life savings for unnecessary taxes. Please do not make the same mistakes I did. I am a widow, a senior citizen living on a federal annuity of less than $10,000 a year. Do your politicians believe I should have to pay state taxes on my limited income? I think not.

As a former resident of Pennsylvania, where politicians care about the people, I advise the state of Virginia to take note. I cannot afford the basic necessities as the state says pay taxes first. Inquire into the tax system of other states such as Pennsylvania and Florida before deciding on Virginia. I did not and I regret my drastic move.

Myra Truskolaski

Willis



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