ROANOKE TIMES 
                      Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times

DATE: Sunday, March 17, 1996                 TAG: 9603180015
SECTION: CURRENT                  PAGE: NRV-2 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
COLUMN: Guest Column 
SOURCE: MONICA KELLY APPLEBY 

AMBITIOUS SCHOOLS BUDGET KEY TO COMPETITIVENESS

For the past year, the Montgomery County Mainstream Citizens organization concentrated its attention on education as a key factor in the well-being of our community.

The proposed 1996 school budget, while in some respects idealistic, is an opportunity for Montgomery County to improve its future prospects in a competitive, changing world.

Tomorrow's jobs will require both more technical expertise and educated judgment.

Throughout the rest of the industrialized world with which we compete, education is in the forefront. We must do no less.

Good schools are a major locational factor for new and expanding industry.

Giving our children marketable skills is an essential legacy.

Employment expands our tax base. Hence, good education is a good investment.

Educated, skilled graduates can have a strong hope for their future. This strong hope reduces crime and other dysfunctional behavior.

Budget decisions are always tough for the Board of Supervisors. In your deliberation we want you to know that we will support you in giving substance to the vision of a better life for Montgomery Countians outlined in Focus 2006.

Monica Kelly Appleby lives in Blacksburg and is secretary of the Montgomery County Mainstream Citizens.

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