ROANOKE TIMES 
                      Copyright (c) 1997, Roanoke Times

DATE: Saturday, April 19, 1997               TAG: 9704210088
SECTION: CURRENT                  PAGE: NRV-1 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 

A LITTLE PROTEST

LENGTH: Short :   27 lines
ILLUSTRATION: PHOTO:  ALAN KIM. WHILE ABOUT 3,000 people participated in 
          forming the giant "125" Thursday to commemorate Virginia Tech's 
          anniversary, Earl Blanchard and Kevin Kroha (the chimney), with the 
          environmental group T.R.E.E. (Taking Responsiblity for Earth and 
          Environment) were trying to draw public attention to their 
          contention that Tech's coal-fired boiler does not meet current 
          federal emission standards. The group also says Tech needs to cover 
          the coal pile off Turner Street to control dust. The group plans 
          another demonstration on the Drillfield at noon Wednesday to 
          highlight the long-running environmental dispute. Spencer Hall, 
          assistant vice president for facilities, said the university is 
          limited by costs. Pollution control equipment would cost more than 
          $3.5 million to install, he said, and a cover could cost $1 million.
          It costs about half as much to use coal over oil or gas, and Spencer
          said Tech has no plans to change its fueling source. color.