Come to Roanoke

Sailing Into the Future

2010-08-23T09:20:00.001-04:00

Several times this week I've been pryvy to the affects the current economy is having on people.

Some folks are looking down-trodden, frustrated, bits of anger flaring; Others are flourishing,

happy, eager to help others.

New stores have opened in the area while some big companies are announcing that

they'll be closing some of their brick and mortar locations.

The pendulum is swinging back the other way in the real estate market,

however, those in the know are saying a couple of more years til we

get back to normal.

I don't know about you, but I don't have the patience to wait and certainly not for a couple of years.

This summer I have taken matters into my own hands, have set sail, and am eager to share with

you where I'm headed and how I'm getting there.

Until next time, as my friend Nikki says, Live, love, laugh, share, and pay it forward!

Suz

"The Juice" from Morning Coffee With Paul

2010-07-14T09:06:00.000-04:00

Glossary Terms Part 4

2010-06-25T13:12:00.000-04:00

Absorber: a component of a solar heater that soaks up heat from the sun and helps transmit it to the water or heating system.
Energy Guide Label: an appliance label that provides an estimate of how much energy the appliance uses, compares energy use of similar products and lists approximate annual operating costs. Required by the US Department of Energy.
Hubbert's Curve: A prediction, made by a geologist in the late 1950s, that classified fossil fuels as finite, and said that after a peak time access to these resources would rapidly decline, eventually diminishing entirely.

LOOK AT YOURSELF AFTER WATCHING THIS.mp4

2010-06-23T09:12:00.000-04:00

We've got it good, don't we?

Green Resource links Regarding Energy Efficiency & Sustainability

2010-05-27T09:58:00.000-04:00

US EPA's Guidebook of Financial Tools

Property Assess Clean Energy (PACE) Bonds

CPC Green Financing Initiative

Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)

US Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

National Association of REALTORS's Smart Growth program

Glossary Terms Part 3

2010-04-29T15:48:00.000-04:00

Aerated Autoclaved Concrete (AAC) - precast concrete that is cured by steam pressure inside a kiln called autoclave. The material is lighter weight than conventional concrete and has good insulation properties.

Energy Assessment - a written report prepared by a qualified party evaluating energy usage, highlighting weak points in energy efficiency, and identifying cost-savings measures. A less rigorous process than an energy audit.

Permeable Pavement - a paving material that allows the penetration of water, thus significantly reducing runoff from storm water.

Glossary Terms Continued

2010-04-02T15:17:00.000-04:00

Heat exchanger: two-way air conditioner that heats and cools by exchanging heat with the ground through a buried loop.

Urban Infill: redevelopment of sites, in the core of metropolitan areas, for commercial and residential purposes.

Wetland: areas that serve as links and buffers between land and water resources by collecting and filtering runoff.

Sidewalks Are Coming to Your Neighborhood

2010-03-07T12:43:00.000-05:00

In the article Walking Into the Future, Brad Broberg looks at how two generations want the same lifestyle. This lifestyle is one of walkability, hence, the 20-minute good life I spoke of previously. In a 2008 housing study, 75% of participants said they wanted the traditional, i.e. walkable, neighborhood.

CEO's for Cities sited in 13 out of 15 markets nationwide, home values and high levels of walkability had a direct correlation. The next time you're downtown, take a look around. City living is making a comeback.

People want to walk or bike and not use their cars. The Grandin Area is a prime example of this in Big Lick. Downtown Roanoke, downtown Salem, and the Williamson Road areas are also now walkable with many, if not all, of the amenities people desire.

Young Professionals and Empty Nester's are asking and shopping for, with their dollars, walkability, homes with less square footage, and amenities close-by. Will localities change with this growing trend and rezone ordinances to allow mixed-use in our neighborhoods? Can our suburbs survive without change? Will local governments see the need for a variety of transportation options? Will our very own bus line add to or alter existing routes so that it doesn't take an hour to get to where you are going?

I will leave you with one final thought. A family living in the suburbs spends 25% of its income on its cars. In a walkable neighborhood, it spends nine percent. What better ways could you save, give, or spend 16% of your income?

As my friend Nikki says, Live, Love, Laugh, Share, and Pay It Forward.

Suzanne

Got Comfy Shoes?

2010-03-07T12:15:00.000-05:00

Walkable towns promote shopping at locally owned stores, so 68% of your dollars stay in the community, according to a study.

Sunset Magazine October 2009

Would You Like Four Hours of Your Life Back?

2010-03-07T12:07:00.000-05:00

Did you know?

Eliminating commuting by car would leave the average American with four extra hours a week?

Sunset Magazine October 2009

What Can You Do With 20-minutes?

2010-03-07T11:20:00.000-05:00

Sunset Magazine featured an article in their October 2009 edition discussing a life where everything you need is within 20 minutes of your home with many of these places being within a five-minute walk, and if they aren't, they are close enough to bike to. This also means mass transit is within 20 minutes of your front door and strongly encourages you to use your car as a last resort.

Gerding Edlen is a real estate developer who came up with this concept of '20-minute living' and is described as being the nation's leader in green building development. He strives for everything being within a 20-minute walk, but in some cases, 20-minutes by transit is more reasonable.

His developments include open spaces, grocery stores, offices, libraries, events, and schools all within a central area so that people may spend less time going to and fro, and more time with their friends and family, pursuing their leisure activities, and engaging in more meaningful social experiences or moments with Mother Nature.

Wouldn't it be nice to be five minutes from a bike path, playground, dog park, or a local grocer?

Do you currently live the 20-minute good life?
If so, would you be willing to tell me where you live, how you like it, and the pro's and con's?

Until next time,
As my friend Nikki says: Live, love, laugh, share, and pay it forward
Suz

Are You Eligible for the Current Tax Credit?

2010-02-21T16:33:00.000-05:00

If you are wondering whether or not you qualify for the tax credit, want to know how much you might receive, or want to know the deadlines, here is a great place to find the answers that you seek: My questions answered.

The NAR's FAQ's on the Tax Credit

2010-02-21T16:23:00.000-05:00

The current tax credit is geared towards first time home buyers, those looking to purchase a second home, or those who have owned a home for five consecutive years out of the last eight.

Here is a link if you have questions regarding the tax credit: FAQ's

Glossary Terms

2010-02-09T15:56:00.000-05:00

Bioswale: A landscape element, often a planted strip along a street or parking lot, for the purpose of capturing surface water runoff and filtering out silt and pollution before the storm water enters the drainage system or groundwater.

Light Pollution: Excessive illumination of night-skies by artificial light.

Water Footprint: An estimation of the amount of water used.

Why Buying Local is Best

2010-01-28T10:50:00.000-05:00

Let me preface this by saying that I am not a purist; I do not buy everything locally. There are are those here in Roanoke who do and kudos to them! After spending time further researching this topic for this post, my eyes have really been opened as to how important this is and why I really need to be doing this as much as I possibly can.

Buying local helps us maintain our culture, commerce, economy, community, and the environment. Jane Jacobs teaches us in her book, The Death and Life of Great American Cities, that having people live, work, and shop in traditional neighborhoods allows us to connect, which is a good thing. We learn from one another's ethnic and economic diversity, and we develop a stronger sense of place and identity. We are safer. We look out for one another and have a stronger sense of community.

Big box stores actually hurt the local community. Their profits go back to corporate headquarters and to their suppliers. Communities actually lose employees due to the downsizing and closings of local businesses as a result of a big-box stores running the Mom-and-Pop stores out of business. Average wages are also reduced, there tends to be higher poverty rates, less civic and social well-being, and sometimes they cost cities more.

Local businesses hire local people, spend more of their money in the community by shopping, banking, advertising, and using local professionals for their needs. Local business owners keep more of their money within the community and give back more of their dollars to local charities.

When we talk of buying local, we must also think about Sustainability. Utopia would be the ideal balance of the Planet, its People, and their Prosperity. Nonetheless, we live in the world of Capitalism, and if you can dream it, someone will make it, distribute it, then strongly encourage others to buy it. It's the American way.

You can't buy everything locally. I'm just encouraging you to buy local whenever you can.

What is your opinion on buying things locally?

As my friend Nikki always says, "Live, love, laugh, share, and pay it forward."

Suz

Tips for a Greener Kitchen

2010-01-28T10:09:00.000-05:00

Here are a few recommendations for greening up your kitchen:

1. Spray Mister for Cooking Oil: Instead of wasting money and filling the land fill with disposable spray cans at the grocery store, visit a kitchen supply store and buy a spray mister which you can fill with your favorite oil. If you use several different kinds of oils (extra virgin olive oil, olive oil, peanut oil, et. al.), buy a mister for each kind. The misters come in a variety of colors and shapes for you to distinguish one from the other.

2. Towels: Ditch the paper towels and use dish towels, old towels, whatever is on hand. These you can toss in the washing machine and reuse over and over.

3. Cloth napkins. Stock up during the sales after each holiday and you'll slowly build your inventory. Have each member of your family choose a color or pattern each week, then when it's time to wash a load of towels, just toss them in.

4. Appliances: When it's time for a new appliance, consider an ENERGY STAR appliance which will save you money by using less electricity and water (where applicable). These machines are designed to work better, smarter, faster.

5. Spices: Buy good spices in small quantities. This will ensure that they stay fresh, thus enhancing the flavors of your culinary creations.

6. Microfiber cloths: Linen towels used to be the best for drying dishes and now microfiber cloths have come along to do the work of both cleaning and drying everything in your home from dishes, to furniture, to floors, and beyond.

7. Baker's Racks and Pot Racks: These make a great display of your pots and pans that you use on a regular basis, keeping them handy, yet out of the way.

8. Cook: Plan your meals and cook at home. This will save you money and with a little preparation, you can have a home-cooked meal even on those busy days when you are walking in the door at dinner time. There are delivery companies that will ship groceries to you. Better yet, get together with some friends to prepare meals or go shopping together and split the cost of bulk items.

9. Crockpots: Yes, there really are good recipes for meals you can toss into the crockpot on your way out the door in the morning or if you have a busy day planned at home.

10. The refrigerator: clean the coils, reseal it if you can pull a dollar bill out from the door when it's closed, and reset the temperature--cooler in the summer time and warmer during the winter months.

Feel free to add your tips and tricks below.

Enjoy your day,
Suzanne

Why Did I Choose to Become a Green REALTOR(r)?

2009-11-09T11:26:00.000-05:00

Growing up as an only child, my parents had good jobs, and I never went without. In college, I became familiar with Greenpeace, the Sierra Club, and other humanitarian and environmental causes. After college, I had my own misadventures in materialism, yet I am slowly getting back to my tree-hugging, hippie ways. Currently, we are a family of five, living on one income, doing what we can to keep our expenses low while treading lightly on Mother Earth.

Our need for frugality has made me become more aware of items being left on the curb for the trash man. Being a member of Freecycle has brought even more awareness of others who are willing to give life to unwanted items, putting these items to good use instead of having them sent off to the landfill. As the saying goes, 'one man's trash is another man's treasure.'

When our youngest was just a baby, I attended a seminar where the presenters were all millionaires, and real estate was a reoccurring theme. Real estate seemed like a good way for me to help others, earn a little money, and still be the main caregiver of our three children.

Now that the children are all in school, I'm out meeting all kinds of great people in the Valley, and I was recently allowed to combine my passion for the environment with my love of helping others with their real estate needs by becoming the first NAR Green designee in the area.

My purpose is to be the source-of-the-source, educate others on how to green their homes, save them money, and help Mother Nature along the way. Happy, happy-win,win!!

September 2009 Residential Market Statistics

2009-10-13T10:34:00.000-04:00

South Roanoke City:

Homes averaged 59 days on market – this is 17 days more than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 97.6% of their list price when the home sold

2 homes sold in September 2009 – this is six less than in September 2008

The average sales price was $102,450.

The median sold price was $102,450, compared to $222,500 in September 2008

Southwest Roanoke City:

Homes averaged 44 days on market – this is 34 days less than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 97.5% of their list price when the home sold

20 homes sold in September 2009 – this is seven less than in September 2008

The average sales price was $232,620

The median sold price was $175,500, compared to $143,000 in September 2008

Southwest Roanoke County:

Homes averaged 87 days on market – this is 25 days more than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 95.8% of their list price when the home sold

39 homes sold in September 2009 – this is three less than in September 2008

The average sales price was $217,342.

The median sold price was $193,000, compared to $227,250 in September 2008

Salem City:

Homes averaged 85 days on market – this is 18 days more than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 95.6% of their list price when the home sold

31 homes sold in September 2009 – this is three more than in September 2008

The average sales price was $182,347.

The median sold price was $152,000, compared to $192,500 in September 2008

Northwest Roanoke City:

Homes averaged 79 days on market – this is four days more than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 95.7% of their list price when the home sold

18 homes sold in September 2009 – this is eight less than in September 2008

The average sales price was $98,985.

The median sold price was $102,500, compared to $82,975 in September 2008

North Roanoke County:

Homes averaged 77 days on market – this is seven days more than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 96.7% of their list price when the home sold

36 homes sold in September 2009 – this is five more than in September 2008

The average sales price was $218,410.

The median sold price was $207,500, compared to $179,000 in September 2008

Williamson Road Area:

Homes averaged 53 days on market – this is four days more than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 96.5% of their list price when the home sold

20 homes sold in September 2009 – this is equal to September 2008

The average sales price was $119,918.

The median sold price was $129,475, compared to $122,750 in September 2008

Vinton, Garden City, SE Roanoke:

Homes averaged 94 days on market – this is 45 days more than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 97.1% of their list price when the home sold

34 homes sold in September 2009 – this is eight less than in September 2008

The average sales price was $147,137.

The median sold price was $128,725, compared to $121,225 in September 2008

Bedford County:

Homes averaged 134 days on market – this is 11 days more than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 96.3% of their list price when the home sold

36 homes sold in September 2009 – this is two more than in September 2008

The average sales price was $270,484.

The median sold price was $221,500, compared to $156,100 in September 2008

Botetourt County:

Homes averaged 123 days on market – this is 63 days more than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 95.6% of their list price when the home sold

32 homes sold in September 2009 – this is eight more than in September 2008

The average sales price was $208,416.

The median sold price was $199,925, compared to $187,500 in September 2008

Franklin County:

Homes averaged 131 days on market – this is five days less than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 92.4% of their list price when the home sold

36 homes sold in September 2009 – this is equal to September 2008

The average sales price was $245,017.

The median sold price was $190,000, compared to $215,000 in September 2008

Craig County:

Homes averaged 125 days on market – this is 88 days less than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 94.4% of their list price when the home sold

4 homes sold in September 2009 – this is two more than in September 2008

The average sales price was $144,938.

The median sold price was $139,250, compared to $164,900 in September 2008

Montgomery County:

Homes averaged 187 days on market – this is 129 days more than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 92.9% of their list price when the home sold

2 homes sold in September 2009 – this is two less than in September 2008

The average sales price was $249,500.

The median sold price was $249,500, compared to $179,900 in September 2008

Floyd County:

Homes averaged 149 days on market – this is 142 days more than in September 2008

Sellers received, on average, 98.7% of their list price when the home sold

2 homes sold in September 2009 – this is one less than in September 2008

The average sales price was $162,500.

The median sold price was $162,500, compared to $80,450 in September 2008

Press Release

2009-07-27T09:23:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Suzanne K. Ashley

Chase Morgan Associates Real Estate

1108 Brandon Ave

Roanoke, VA 24015

540.355.6029

LOCAL REALTOR^® ACHIEVES

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®GREEN DESIGNATION

July 24, 2009

Roanoke, VA– Suzanne K. Ashley with Chase Morgan Associates Real Estate has been awarded the National Association of REALTORS^®’ (NAR’s) Green Designation, the only green real estate professional designation recognized by NAR.

Suzanne achieved this prestigious designation after completing 18 hours of course work designed specifically for REALTORS^®. The courses were created in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of industry experts from across the country; ensuring designees gain comprehensive knowledge of green homes and buildings and issues of sustainability in relation to real estate.

More specifically, Suzanne was trained in understanding what makes a property green, helping clients evaluate the cost/benefits of green building features and practices, distinguishing between industry rating and classification systems, listing and marketing green homes and buildings, discussing the financial grants and incentives available to homeowners, and helping consumers see a property’s green potential.

“As energy costs rise along with concern for the environment, homeowners are looking for innovative ways to save money and live responsibly,” said Dick Gaylord, NAR’s immediate past president. NAR’s Green Designation was developed in response to growing consumer awareness of the benefits of resource-efficient homes and buildings. The designation helps consumers who care about energy efficiency and sustainable building practices identify REALTORS^® who can help them realize their green real estate and lifestyle goals.

As an NAR Green Designee, Suzanne has gained the knowledge and the tools necessary to become a trusted green resource for the Roanoke Valley. For more information about Suzanne K. Ashley please visit http://Suzanne.ChaseMorganAssociates.com or Suzanne@ChaseMorganAssociates.com.

For more information about NAR’s newest designation, visit www.greenresourcecouncil.org

Cave Spring Makes Money's Top 100 List of Places to Live in 2009

2009-07-13T11:59:00.000-04:00

89. Cave Spring, VA

WINNER

Top 100 rank: 89
Population: 25,300
Compare Cave Spring to Top 10 Best Places

Cave Spring is a slow-paced, family-oriented community adjacent to the city of Roanoke, a bustling industrial hub. Carillion Health Care, Advance Auto Parts, GE, Toshiba, and ITT have large operations in the area. Virginia Tech is less than an hour away, and several high-tech companies have a presence here too.

Cave Spring has a temperate four-season climate, so there are recreation opportunities year round. For hiking and biking, the Appalachian Trail isn't far, and there's skiing in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. --N.A.

Big Lick Green Businesses Tribe

2009-07-09T16:33:00.000-04:00

If you are in business and would like to talk
with other like-minded greenies, this is a
group for green business people in the Big
Lick area to connect with one another and
help each other grow.










Subscribe to Big Lick Green Businesses Tribe

Email: 


Visit this group

List of items allowed for the tax Holiday--Hurricane Preparedness

2009-05-25T15:20:00.000-04:00

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS SALES TAX HOLIDAY
APPENDIX -- LIST OF QUALIFYING ITEMS
May 25 – May 31, 2009
Sales Price of $60 or less
The following hurricane preparedness items may be purchased exempt of the Retail
Sales and Use Tax during the “Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday,” provided
that such items have a selling price of $60 or less per item.
• Artificial ice, blue ice, ice packs and
reusable ice
• Batteries (excluding automobile or boat
batteries), including
o AAA cell
o AA cell
o C cell
o D cell
o 6 volt
o 9 volt
o Cell phone batteries
• Any portable self-powered light sources
including
o Flashlights
o Lanterns
o Glow sticks
• Tarpaulins, plastic sheeting, plastic
drop cloths, and other flexible
waterproof sheeting
• Bungee cords, rope
• Ground anchor systems or tie down
kits
• Ratchet straps
• Duct tape
• Carbon monoxide detectors
• Smoke detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• Gas or diesel fuel tanks or containers
• Water storage containers
• Nonelectric food storage coolers
• Bottled water
• Manual can openers
• Portable self-powered radios (including
self-powered radios with electrical
power capability)
• Two-way radios
• Weather band radios and NOAA
weather radios
• Storm shutter devices
• Cell phone chargers
• First Aid Kits
Sales Price of $1,000 or less
The following hurricane preparedness items may be purchased exempt of the Retail
Sales and Use Tax during the “Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday,” provided
that such items have a selling price of $1000 or less per item.
• Portable generators and generator power cords
• Inverters and inverter power cables
The Virginia Department of Taxation’s Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday
Guidelines and Rules are available online at www.tax.virginia.gov/salestaxholiday.
For additional information on hurricane preparation, visit the Virginia Department of
Emergency Management website at www.vaemergency.com.

My Twitter Mosaic

2009-03-01T20:25:00.000-05:00

Get your twitter mosaic here.

Roanoke County Sets Out to Reduce Green House Gas Emissions

2009-02-25T15:33:00.000-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 25, 2009

Roanoke Valley Cool Cities Coalition

Contact: Mark McClain

(540)387-0930

mcclainmark@ comcast.net

Roanoke County Sets Aggressive Emissions Reduction Target, Recognizes Work of Cool Cities Coalition and Affiliates

Culminating nearly two years of planning and analysis, the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors approved three resolutions yesterday, paving the way for a multi-year campaign to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions are widely acknowledged to be a principal cause of global climate change. Prior to introducing the resolutions, Cave Spring District Supervisor Charlotte Moore acknowledged the work of county staff, local scientists who provided technical expertise, Roanoke Valley Cool Cities Coalition and several of its affiliates, and Roanoke Cement, a Titan America Company that provided funding for expert assistance to the County in this project. All three resolutions passed by unanimous vote of the five members of the Board of Supervisors.

Following the Board action, Roanoke Valley Cool Cities Coalition's Diana Christopulos commented, "We're so grateful to Charlotte Moore, without whose efforts this great achievement might not have been possible. We are very excited to be a part of this landmark decision, and we look forward to working with the new citizens' committee, the Board of Supervisors, and county staff, as they sustain their quest to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and strive toward a smart, clean energy future for our community."

The first resolution was to accept the report of the ICLEI Planning Group, a task force of county officials and staff, academic consultants, and volunteers. This report detailed the measurement of the carbon footprint of the entire Roanoke County Community, with separate statistics for county government operations. The carbon footprint is a calculation of the total amount of carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere as a result of fossil fuel combustion and other activities. Funding for expert assistance with this project was provided by Roanoke Valley Cool Cities Coalition through a special grant from Roanoke Cement, an affiliate of the coalition.

The second resolution was to set a goal for reduction of the community's carbon footprint by 3% each year for the years 2010 to 2020. The goal for the county government operation is to stabilize the level of emissions by 2012, then reduce it 3% per year for the years 2013 to 2020. Roanoke County is the second municipality in the Roanoke Valley to pass such a resolution. Last September, the City of Roanoke announced a goal of annual emissions reductions over a five-year period of 2.5% for city government operations and 2% for the community as a whole.

The third resolution was to authorize the establishment of and approve the bylaws for an action-oriented citizen's committee to identify ways to reduce emissions and energy costs by developing strategies for improved energy efficiency and conservation in the community. This committee will be known as Roanoke County Community Leaders Environmental Action Roundtable (RC-CLEAR) and will consist of two citizens from each of the five magisterial districts, to be appointed by their respective Supervisor, plus one senior county staff member. The Board pledged quick action on appointment of members of the new committee.

In her comments, Ms. Moore recognized the following individuals and organizations who helped make these actions possible:

County Staff - Dan O'Donnell, Assistant Administrator; Anne Marie Green, Director of General Services; Jim Vodnik, Assistant Director of General Services; Lindsey Hudson, Intern
Consultants - Dr. Sean McGinnis, Senior Research Scientist, Green Engineering Program, Virginia Tech; Dr. Renee Godard, Professor of Biology, Director of Environmental Education, & Environmental Advisory Board Chair, Hollins University
Roanoke Valley Cool Cities Coalition - Diana Christopulos, Board Chair and Coordinator; Mark McClain, Director.
Roanoke Cement - Don Ingerson, Vice President Sales & Marketing; Robert Marek, Sales Representative
Breakell Inc. General Contractors - Nell Boyle, Director of Sustainable Business Practices

ABOUT ROANOKE VALLEY COOL CITIES COALITION

Founded in August 2006, Roanoke Valley Cool Cities Coalition is an independent, all-volunteer, Virginia Nonstock (non-profit) Corporation, organized as a 501(c)(3) public charity. The coalition consists of 150 member/affiliates including businesses, non-profit groups, and individual activists. In all, coalition members represent over 15,000 area citizens. Familiarly known as "Cool Cities", the coalition is managed by a volunteer board of directors headed by Dr. Diana Christopulos of Salem . The board is comprised of representatives from the business, environmental, and academic communities; a full list of board members can be found on the coalition's web site www.rvccc.org. RVCCC has an active community outreach program and offers free lectures and a variety of presentations to a wide range of community groups. Cool Cities board members are actively involved with local governments to encourage and assist them as they seek to implement smart energy solutions that will benefit taxpayers and the environment.

Recycling Roanoke one home at a time,

Suzanne

Granite counter-tops going out of style

2009-02-12T20:23:00.000-05:00

This article is just an FYI.
Granite counter-tops, once all-the-rage, are now on their way out, which means this may be a mute point.
My understanding is quartz is a better choice if you are looking for a natural element.

http://greenbuildingelements.com/2009/02/02/hostile-granite-showrooms-refuse-to-discuss-radiation/#more-890

Recycling Roanoke one home at a time.

Wind Energy Now Employs More than Coal Mining

2009-02-12T20:08:00.000-05:00

How cool is it that wind is supplying clean energy and stimulating so many jobs?

http://sustainablog.org/2009/02/03/wind-energy-jobs-surpass-coal-mining-jobs/

Recycling Roanoke one home at a time.

Back to Basics, Green Style

2009-01-19T19:42:00.000-05:00

I'm hearing more and more about people getting back to the basics in today's economy. Grandma's advice is being referenced more and more, especially about saving for a rainy day. To paraphrase Dave Ramsey, you know it's going to rain, so you may as well save for it. Saving money, not spending everything you bring in is certainly smart, and some of the ways you can save around the house is by doing some of the basics of being green. The three basics you are probably most familiar with are reduce, reuse, and recycle. What do these mean and what are some examples, you ask?

Reduce--cut back. Lowering your thermostat a degree or two in the winter and raising it a bit in the summer will help lower your energy costs. Ways to cut back on your water usage include taking shorter showers and not as many baths. By composting kitchen scraps and recycling your trash, you can reduce or eliminate the number of times you take your trash can to the curb. These are just a few of the ways to help reduce your consumption of energy, water, and solid waste.

Reuse--Find another use for an item to prolong its life. Turn an item into something else, thus creating a new use for it. If you don't love an item anymore, but it still has some life left in it, check with your local Freecycle group , Goodwill, Salvation Army, Craigs List, local consignment store, or have a yardsale. One person's trash is another person's treasure, right? Also, if you are in need of an item, don't forget to check these places first before buying a new one.

Recycling is the process of taking a product at the end of its useful life and using all or part of it to make another product http://earth911.com/recycling/. Many people I have talked to who recycle feel that it is easy to do, especially once it has become part of their normal routine. Landfills are lined at the bottom and lined or capped on top. Unfortunately, all kinds of toxic substances are dumped in them along w/ sharp objects which cut the lining, allowing rain water to filter in and liquids to seep out into the ground and eventually our water table. This means our rivers, lakes, and oceans where we play, as well as our drinking water sources, are at risk for being polluted.

For many of you, this may have been a rather elementary lesson on reducing, reusing, and recycling; a back to basics review if you will. In the upcoming weeks, I will bring you more info that I hope will be useful, informative, and especially motivational. Feel free to send me questions and your comments are most welcome. Would you be kind enough to tell me how you are reducing, reusing, and recycling? I'll start--I recycle most of our 'trash', so much so, that we only have to take our trash can to the curb about once a month.

Recycling Roanoke one home at a time,
Suzanne

Dream BIG

2008-07-04T18:23:00.001-04:00

"Deep within man dwell slumbering powers;
powers that would astonish him, that he never dreamed of possessing; forces that would revolutionize his life if aroused and put into action." - Orison Swett Marden

Happy Independence Day!

2008-07-04T13:49:00.000-04:00

This was sent to me, and I thought that I would share.
Wishing you health, wealth, and happiness,
Suz

On July 4th, 1776, the Congress voted to accept the Declaration of Independence,

which is why the United States celebrates that date each year as its

Independence Day from Great Britain.

4th of JULY
REMEMBERING INDEPENDENCE DAY

Have you ever wondered what happened to the 56
men who signed the Declaration of Independence?

Five signers were captured by the British as
traitors, and tortured before they died.

Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned.

Two lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary
Army; another had two sons captured.

Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or
hardships of the Revolutionary War.

They signed and they pledged their lives, their
fortunes, and their sacred honor.

What kind of men were they?

Twenty-four were lawyers and jurists. Eleven were
merchants, nine were farmers and large plantation
owners; men of means, well educated.

But they signed the Declaration of Independence
knowing full well that the penalty would be death
if they were captured.

Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and
trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the
British Navy. He sold his home and properties
to pay his debts, and died in rags.

Thomas McKeam was so hounded by the British that
he was forced to move his family almost constantly.
He served in the Congress without pay, and his family
was kept in hiding. His possessions were taken from
him, and poverty was his reward.

Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of Dillery,
Hall, Clymer, Walton, Gwinnett, Heyward, Ruttledge
and Middleton.

At the battle of Yorktown, Thomas Nelson, Jr., noted
that the British General, Cornwallis, had taken over
the Nelson home for his headquarters. He quietly
urged General George Washington to open fire. The
home was destroyed, and Nelson died bankrupt.

Francis Lewis had his home and properties destroyed.
The enemy jailed his wife, and she died within a few
months.

John Hart was driven from his wife's bedside as she
was dying. Their 13 children fled for their lives. His
fields and his gristmill were laid to waste. For more
than a year he lived in forests and caves, returning
home to find his wife dead and his children vanished.
A few weeks later he died from exhaustion
and a broken heart.

Norris and Livingston suffered similar fates.

Such were the stories and sacrifices of the American
Revolution. These were not wild-eyed, rabble-rousing
ruffians. They were soft-spoken men of means and
education. They had security,
but they valued liberty more.

Standing tall, straight, and unwavering, they pledged:
"For the support of this declaration, with firm
reliance on the protection of the divine providence,
we mutually pledge to each other, our lives, our
fortunes and our sacred honor."

They gave you and me a free and independent America.
The history books never told you a lot about what
happened in the Revolutionary War. We didn't fight
just the British. We were British subjects at that
time and we fought our own government!

Some of us take these liberties so much for granted
but we shouldn't!

So, take a few minutes while enjoying your 4th of July
holiday and silently thank these patriots. It's not
too much to ask for the price they paid.

Remember: Freedom is never free!

For all you who have gone in harms' way and returned,
I say "Thank You for your sacrifice."
and to those who lost loved ones, I'd say
"Their sacrifice will not be forgotten.".
I say this now and will until my last breath.

Unknown Author

Where are the Buyers?

2008-07-01T21:15:00.000-04:00

I am fortunate enough to be in a field of work that allows me to combine my two favorite past-times--helping people and helping Mother Earth. Perhaps you haven't thought much about it, but I help others recycle a precious commodity that many Americans pay good money for--their homes. First, I get to help people either buy or sell a home (or help them find someone to refinance their current home), and second, being a Realtor allows me to take my passion for recycling to the next level--finding new owners for previously owned homes. New construction is nice, don't get me wrong; it's just special when I can help keep existing homes lived-in and taken care of.

With interest rates so low (Don't believe me? Ask your parents or other relatives if they ever had a mortgage with a 13%, 18%, or 21% interest rate), plenty of homes on the market, and lenders with money to loan, where are all the buyers? I saw an ad for a credit union the other day stating it had $50 million to lend.

Why would you not want to buy right now? If you are concerned about your credit, call me. We will take a look, see how it is and, if necessary, put together a game plan so you can buy a home in the near future. Is it time to move into a larger home or a smaller home? Perhaps you've been thinking about buying a second home, an investment property, or a building for your company? Are you toying with the idea of refinancing? Now is the time. There are plenty of homes and commercial properties for you to consider.

Whether you hear my 15 year old call me a hippie, my hubby describe me as a granola-eating free-spirit, or even hear me say I'm off to a tree-hugger meeting, please know that I am here to help you in any way that I can. Now is the time.

If you are buying a home, I'm interested in hearing the reason(s) why. If you aren't buying and could, I'd love to hear why you aren't.

Wishing you health, wealth, and prosperity,
Suz

Where do you like to eat dinner out?

2007-05-14T10:45:00.000-04:00

As a family of five, eating dinner out is a big treat for us. Sometimes the whole family goes, but most of the time it is just my handsome hubby and I. We always struggle with, "Do we want to go somewhere new or do we want to go to one of our favorite places?" If we are under time-restraints (i.e. have to get home because we're paying for a sitter), then we usually go to one of our tried-and-true restaurants. If we have more time, then we opt for a restaurant we haven't been to before.

First and foremost for pizza is Lil' Cucci's Pizzeria in Daleville. My second favorite pizza place is Good Fellaz www.goodfellazpizza.com having two locations: Brambleton and Peters Creek Rd. in Roanoke. Coming in third, is New York Pizza in Vinton.

If we're celebrating and it's my turn to pick a restaurant, my choice is Montano's www.montanos.net on Franklin Road in Roanoke. The menu is pages long with something for everyone. The children's meals are arranged on sushi trays and the presentation is a sight to see. Carrabba's www.carrabbas.com/ at Valley View Mall in Roanoke is a new favorite. Szechuan Restaurant, with locations in North Roanoke, South Roanoke, and in Salem (www.szechuans.com) has wonderful Oriental food.

Other restaurants that we like that are close to home include: Mac N Bob's in Salem, Fuddrucker's www.fuddruckers.com/, again in Salem, and Jimmy V's on Brandon in Roanoke.

For an evening on the town, we like to go to Martin's Downtown Bar and Grill, Trio Bistro Bar Bottle, or the Green Dolphin Grill. All three are located in downtown Roanoke. Martin's www.martinsdowntown.com is located at the corner of First and Luck, Trio www.triowinebar.com is at the corner of Market and Church, and the Green Dolphin is on Campbell close to Williamson Road.

Several new restaurants have opened up while others have been remodeled and are on the list of 'new' places we would like to check out: Tony Pope's Bistro and Wine Bar, 202 Market www.202market.net/ , Abuelo's Mexican Food Embassy www.abuelos.com/default.asp, Nicos Restaurant & Cafe, plus I remember reading about a new barbecue place opening (opened?) in downtown Roanoke.

Where do you like to go eat dinner? If you have been to some of the new/remodeled restaurants, please tell me where you went and how your experience was. Which places should we be checking out?

Suzanne

Suzanne K. Ashley, REALTOR

www.stoverdavis.com/agent.asp?id=103
Office 540.777.3333 X 365

Cell 540.355.6029
sashley@stoverdavis.com

Hokie Hope

2007-04-19T12:36:00.000-04:00

I hope y'all will join me in this endeavor.
My heart goes out to each and every one of you.
You will get through this; you will stand tall;
and you will again smile and chant the Hokie slogan.

Go Hokies!

Suzanne

Suzanne K. Ashley, REALTOR

www.stoverdavis.com/agent.asp?id=103
Office 540.777.3333 X 365

Cell 540.355.6029
sashley@stoverdavis.com

Roanoke's Urban Core

2007-04-16T14:34:00.000-04:00

newvaconnects held a Professional Development luncheon last week, where I had the pleasure of listening to Dr. Sabine U. O’Hara (President of Roanoke College) present her findings regarding a study she conducted with Dr. Jose Vazquez on the quality of life in the Roanoke Valley. Although her findings were interesting, they were not surprising, especially to adults in their 20’s or 30’s who are single or DINKs (Dual-income, no-kids).

The Roanoke Area, based on the findings, is in need of three things. One, an Urban Core including high-end retail, music venues, and diversification. Two, our suburbs need playgrounds, sidewalks, and childcare facilities close to home. Third, recreation is deemed desirable if we can hike, bike, and have water access within 15 minutes of where we live. It was also mentioned that we are in need of more alternative health care providers such as chiropractors, acupuncturists, herbalists and the like.

Dr. O’Hara’s paper can be read at the following address: http://web.roanoke.edu/Documents/Roanoke%20Economic%20Development%202006.pdf.

I encourage you to read it and share your thoughts, questions, concerns, and compliments. How can we go about bringing change to the area and obtaining what is needed? Are you willing to invest some of your time into promoting changes here in Roanoke? Why or why not?

Suzanne

Suzanne K. Ashley, REALTOR

www.stoverdavis.com/agent.asp?id=103
Office 540.777.3333 X 365

Cell 540.355.6029
sashley@stoverdavis.com