Flags don’t show need for gun control

Flags don’t show need for gun control

Re: Martin D. Jeffrey’s June 20 letter, “Remember victims of gun violence”:

Jeffrey meant well, I’m sure. The field of 1,405 flags located at 3108 Hershberger Road is quite a vision.

I do not agree and will not partake in calling my congressman to insist on support for reasonable gun legislation.

The reason being this will affect those of us who are responsible gun owners. Many perpetrators had large rap sheets or some sort of mental deficiency.

Guns can be bought any place, even ordered through catalogs, and will never be registered.

PHYLLIS HARMON
ROANOKE

It’s a wonder there are so many wonders

Anyone who can read or use the Internet can easily find out what the Seven Natural Wonders of the World are and where they are located (‘Natural Bridge is an asset for Virginia,” June 29 Pick of the day).

Sorry, Virginia, there is no Natural Wonder in your state or even close to it.

The closest one is in Arizona.

The Natural Bridge of Virginia may, however, be among the Thirty Natural Wonders of the Eastern United States, behind Niagara Falls, the Everglades, Mammoth Cave, the Okefenokee Swamp, the Outer Banks and the Natural Bridge of Kentucky.

You’re not entitled to your own facts, Virginia.

JOHN OEN
MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Artist helped raise vision loss awareness

The National Society for the Prevention of Blindness estimates that 40,000 to 45,000 Americans lose their sight every year.

That’s an astounding number, yet most people probably don’t think much about the fact that vision loss could happen to them or a loved one.

Vision Awareness Days, June 22-29, was a collaborative effort to raise awareness about vision loss and provide information about services available to those who lose their vision.

The list of people and organizations to which Voice of the Blue Ridge owes a debt of thanks for the week’s success is far too long for this space.

However, the highlight of the week and primary reason for the success was the visit by John Bramblitt.

For those who may not know, Bramblitt is an artist who lost his vision as a young man.

His story is inspiring, his paintings are amazing and he is one of the most delightful people I have ever met.

If you had the opportunity to meet him, you know exactly what I mean.

If not, I hope you will have the opportunity to do so in the near future.

We are hoping he will return to Roanoke very soon.

JAN SMYTH
Executive Director
Voice of the Blue Ridge
ROANOKE

Reader relishes all achievements

I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the Timesland Athletes of the Year (June 30 special section). Every year, I appreciate the chance to admire the hard work and dedication of these talented students.

I look forward to the special sections you will be printing on the “Scholars of the Year” and “Artists of the Year,” for surely you will also be recognizing students who excel in academics and fine arts the same way you do those with physical gifts.

How about highlighting those who are outstanding in all three areas?

BETH O’CONNOR
BLACKSBURG

Weather Journal

5 hours ago

1. 41-vehicle wreck ties up traffic Sunday on I-81 in Rockbridge County 

2. Virginia Tech football roster has holes on picture day

3. Medicare penalties hit hospitals in Roanoke, New River Valleys

4. Microfestivus beer event gets downtown Roanoke hopping 

5. McFarling: 2 little numbers are a big hurdle for Virginia Tech football 

6. Arrest made in case of missing Nelson County teen

7. DAN CASEY: Copter cost still stirring up dust

8. Roanoke farmers markets making local foods more accessible

9. Virginia attorney general's office grows under Ken Cuccinelli 

10. Man's drowning is 5th in Lynchburg area