Congress of the United States
House of Representatives
Rick Boucher
9th District, Virginia

NINTHNET@mail.house.gov
HTTP://www.house.gov/boucher/

July 9, 2008

Mr. Tim W. Jackson
Editor & Publisher, New River Voice
Post Office Box 1411
Radford, Virginia 24143

Dear Tim:

Thank you for contacting me to express your support for legislation to provide health care for those who cannot purchase health insurance. I appreciate your taking the time to write, and I assure you that I share your views.

You and I agree that all Americans should have access to health care and that the government should play a larger role in ensuring that our nation’s health needs are met. Almost daily, I receive calls and letters from constituents who have found their health care expenses beyond their abilities to afford. The U.S. is the only industrialized nation which does not assure that all citizens have affordable access to health care. It is time for the U.S. to do so. (more…)

[Photos by Tim W. Jackson]

On Saturday, June 21, a new annual tradition was launched in Blacksburg’s central business district — the Summer Solstice Fest. This family-friendly event drew thousands of participants, an occurrence that surprised and delighted everyone, including us – The Downtown Merchants of Blacksburg.

(more…)

I am writing regarding Todd Guill’s editorial, “Truth in Bad-vertising” (Nov. 1, 2007). As someone who hates obnoxious commercials myself (I was surprised Mr. Guill didn’t make any mention of what I have termed the “screaming car ads,” such as those for Berglund Chevrolet), I got a good laugh reading his article. Until I reached the end, however.

I was very saddened to read Mr. Guill’s comments regarding “monkeys” and that they make for a “successful, effective commercial.” No doubt Mr. Guill is referring to chimpanzees (which are technically apes, not monkeys), which are featured in many commercials today. (more…)