Toyota announces voluntary recall.

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc, today announced it will conduct a voluntary safety recall on approximately 133,000 2010 Model Year Prius vehicles and 14,500 Lexus Division 2010 HS 250h vehicles to update software in the vehicle’s anti-lock brake system (ABS). No other Toyota, Lexus, or Scion vehicles are involved in this recall.

The ABS, in normal operation, engages and disengages rapidly (many times per second) as the control system senses and reacts to tire slippage. Some 2010 model year Prius and 2010 HS 250h owners have reported experiencing inconsistent brake feel during slow and steady application of brakes on rough or slick road surfaces when the ABS is activated in an effort to maintain tire traction.

Toyota has responded to owner concerns with a running production change for 2010 Prius that was introduced last month, improving the ABS system’s response time, as well as the system’s overall sensitivity to tire slippage. The production change for the HS 250h is planned for later this month.

“We’re committed to doing everything we can — as fast as we can — to restore consumer trust in Toyota, and these recalls are part of this effort,” said Jim Lentz, President and Chief Operating Officer, Toyota Motor Sales. “We regret the inconvenience this recall will cause to Prius and HS 250h owners, and will do our best with the support of our dealers to make sure that it is conducted in the most trouble-free manner possible.”

Mr. Lentz continued: “As part of the quality improvement program announced by Toyota President Akio Toyoda last week, our company is undertaking a top to bottom review to ensure that our vehicles meet our own high standards of safety and reliability, now and for the future. We are taking steps to implement more stringent quality control across the company, to investigate customer complaints more aggressively and to respond more quickly to any safety issues we identify.”

The recall will allow Toyota dealers to perform the software update on 2010 Prius vehicles sold prior to this running production change. Only Prius vehicles produced since May 2009 and all HS 250h vehicles are subject to this recall. First- and second-generation Prius vehicles use a different ABS system and are not involved in this campaign.

The ABS system on the Lexus HS 250h is similar in design to the Prius. The software adjustment planned for HS 250h production and dealer modification is being finalized and will be announced very soon.

Toyota will begin mailing letters to Prius owners included in this recall next week and HS 250h owners within the next few weeks, to let them know when to bring their vehicles into a dealership. Owners will only receive a letter if their vehicle is involved in the recall.

Separately, Toyota will conduct a voluntary safety recall on approximately 7,300 early production — 2010 model year Camry vehicles equipped with the 4 cylinder engine to inspect for a power steering hose that may be in contact with a front brake tube. This contact could lead to a hole in the brake tube and cause a brake fluid leak, increased brake pedal stroke and greater vehicle stopping distance.

Owners of the involved 2010 Camry vehicles will be notified by mail starting in the middle of February.

Detailed information about these recalls is available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

Toyota dealers nationwide begin fixing accelerator pedals on recalled vehicles.

• Parts to Reinforce Accelerator Pedals Delivered to All U.S. Toyota Dealerships
• Mailing of Notification Letters to Affected Owners Begins Today
• Many Toyota Dealers Extending Hours, Hiring Additional Technicians to Complete Repairs for Customers Quickly and Conveniently

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. today announced that Toyota dealers nationwide have received the parts, information and training they need to fix accelerator pedals in recalled Toyota Division vehicles, and that repairs on involved vehicles have begun. The actual repair requires about 30 minutes of work.

The company also announced that it has begun mailing letters to owners of recalled vehicles to let them know when to bring their vehicles into a dealership. Owners will only receive a letter if their vehicle is involved in the recall. Upon receipt of a notification letter, owners will be asked to contact a local Toyota dealership to schedule an appointment to have their vehicle fixed.

“Nothing is more important to us than the safety and reliability of the vehicles our customers drive, and we are determined to live up to the high standards people have come to expect from Toyota over the past 50 years,” said Jim Lentz, president and Chief Operating Officer, TMS. “Everyone at Toyota is focused on making this recall simple and trouble-free for our customers,” he said.

“We’re working hard to ensure that our dealers have the resources and support they need to make sure our customers get their cars fixed quickly,” Lentz added. “The parts have been shipped, the dealers are trained, and they are already making the repairs. Many of our dealers are working extended hours – some 24/7- and adding service technicians and other staff to complete the recall campaign as conveniently as possible. I appreciate the efforts that our dealers are making to take care of Toyota owners.”

Toyota’s engineers developed and rigorously tested a solution to address the potential for sticking accelerator pedals that is both effective and simple. A precision-cut steel reinforcement bar will be installed into the accelerator pedal assembly on affected vehicles, thereby eliminating the excess friction that has caused pedals to stick in rare instances.

Toyota Dealers Going Above and Beyond to Take Care of Customers, Rebuild Confidence and Trust

Toyota dealers across the country are taking extra steps to support customers during this recall.

Many Toyota dealers will offer extended service hours, and some are planning to stay open 24 hours a day until all customer vehicles have been fixed. Others are adding greeters to their service drives, dedicating body shop capacity to expedite repairs, providing free car washes and oil changes, increasing owner communication and providing complimentary maintenance service, among other customer-focused activities.

To support these efforts, Toyota is sending checks of between $7,500 and $75,000 to its dealers in acknowledgement of the additional costs they are assuming to make it easier for customers to have the necessary repairs done quickly and conveniently.

About the Recall to Address Sticking Accelerator Pedals

On January 21, Toyota announced its intention to recall approximately 2.3 million select Toyota Division vehicles equipped with certain accelerator pedal mechanisms that may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position. Toyota vehicles affected by the recall include:

• Certain 2009-2010 RAV4
• Certain 2009-2010 Corolla
• 2009-2010 Matrix
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• Certain 2007-2010 Camry
• Certain 2010 Highlander
• 2007-2010 Tundra
• 2008-2010 Sequoia

No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are involved in these specific actions. Also not involved at this time are Toyota Prius, Tacoma, Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Highlander hybrids and certain Camry models, including Camry hybrids, all of which remain for sale.

Further, Camry, RAV4, Corolla and Highlander vehicles with Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) that begin with “J” are not affected by the accelerator pedal recall.

In the event that a driver experiences an accelerator pedal that sticks in a partial open throttle position or returns slowly to idle position, the vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes. The brakes should not be pumped repeatedly because it could deplete vacuum assist, requiring stronger brake pedal pressure. The vehicle should be driven to the nearest safe location, the engine shut off and a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance.

Separately from the recall for sticking accelerator pedals, Toyota is in the process of recalling vehicles to address rare instances in which floor mats have trapped the accelerator pedal in certain Toyota and Lexus models (announced November 25, 2009), and is already notifying customers about how it will fix this issue. In the case of vehicles covered by both recalls, it is Toyota’s intention to remedy both at the same time.

Detailed information and answers to questions about issues related to these recalls are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

Beth Thomasson, Katherine Boltz and Courtney Hart will perform at Sweet Briar College on Feb. 19.

Three senior dance majors will offer a window into the possibilities of modern dance at Sweet Briar College in their upcoming concert. Katherine Boltz, Courtney Hart and Beth Thomasson will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19 in Murchison Lane Auditorium, Babcock Fine Arts Center. Seating is free and open to the public.

Boltz has a strong interest in Irish dance. In the spring semester of her junior year, she studied abroad in Ireland to immerse herself in the culture of the art. At Sweet Briar, she has taught in the College’s afterschool dance program for children, passing on her knowledge and love of Irish dancing. But her skill doesn’t end there, said Mark Magruder, SBC dance program director, noting she is an exceptional modern dancer and choreographer.

“Irish dance with a modern twist — that’s what I’ll be doing in my solo,” Boltz said. “My large group piece is my ‘doll’ piece. It’s about living dolls moving through space and time. My solo is going to be a softer Irish dance.”

Graduating students must perform a large-group piece, a small-group piece and a solo to complete the requirements of their senior year.

Hart’s piece will take a different turn, as she reveals her deep passion for the performance style of the Cirque du Soleil dance company. Hart attended the National Institute of Circus Arts in Melbourne, Australia, during her junior year and returned with renewed vigor and inspiration for the company and technique. In the near future, Hart is auditioning in Las Vegas for a new Cirque du Soleil show. She has also taught in Sweet Briar’s afterschool program for children, sharing her love for circus arts.

“We have rigged the dance studio space to allow her to do aerial work,” Magruder said. “I’m sure the audience will be excited by what they see.”

“For all of my pieces,” Hart said, “I drew upon my love for circus arts. My solo will showcase my love for aerial things.

“My small group piece is a view of the circus in the Victorian era — a twisted spin on what a circus is,” Hart said.

Thomasson’s choreography often depicts a personal struggle or journey.

“Through her time here, she has taken us through many wonderful journeys exploring different aspects of her life and the world around us,” Magruder said.

In the winter concert, Thomasson will be using a moveable mirror to perform a duet with many different and inventive possibilities.

For more information contact Magruder at (434) 381-6150 or “mmagruder @ sbc.edu” (remove spaces and quotes).

John Murtha

On Sunday, January 31, 2010 Representative John P. “Jack” Murtha (D-Pa.) was admitted to Virginia Hospital Center’s Intensive Care Unit due to major complications from surgery at another medical facility. Despite aggressive critical care interventions, Rep. Murtha died today, Monday 8 February 2010 at 1:18 pm, with his family at the bedside.

Murtha, 77, was Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. First elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in February of 1974, Murtha dedicated his life to serving his country both in the military and in the halls of Congress. A former Marine, he became the first Vietnam War combat Veteran elected to the U.S. Congress.

This past Saturday, February 6, 2010, Murtha became Pennsylvania’s longest serving Member of Congress.

The entire staff and administration at Virginia Hospital Center, especially the physicians and nurses caring for Rep. Murtha, stated deep sadness by his passing. The Hospital admires the strength and courage of the Murtha family during this difficult time and would like to express their deepest condolences to Rep. Murtha’s family and Congressional office for their loss.

Governor Edward G. Rendell today said all Pennsylvanians should be sad at the loss of this “uber-congressman.”

“Pennsylvania has lost one of its greatest citizens,” Governor Rendell said. “Congressman Murtha impacted the entire state, not just his congressional district, in ways that almost no individual has. He did so much for so many of us throughout the commonwealth.

“He was also the best friend and supporter of our military and the men and women who risk their lives for our country. He worked tirelessly to ensure that our military had the resources it needed to do its job effectively and that our service men and women had every piece of equipment necessary to protect them. He had the courage and integrity to make sure the military was on the right track and he was not afraid to raise questions.

“He will be sorely missed by every citizen of the commonwealth,” the Governor said. “Midge and I extend our deepest sympathy and support to the Murtha family.”

Governor Rendell ordered all Pennsylvania and U.S. flags across the commonwealth to be flown at half-staff in memory of the late congressman.

“This is fitting because Jack Murtha was not just a wonderful congressman for his district, but for all of Pennsylvania,” said Governor Rendell. “No matter what the issue was, Jack and Jack’s office was the first call we would make. No matter where you were in Pennsylvania, and certainly for anyone sitting in this chair, he was the go-to guy. He will be missed in countless ways.”

Flags will remain at half-staff through interment.

Bob McDonnell

Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that he will support updating the Local Composite Index (LCI), the formula which determines state and local education funding responsibility, in the upcoming budget. The move will mean another proposed change to the introduced budget, which froze the LCI at its current level. The LCI has historically always been adjusted every two years to account for changing local economic conditions. The proposal to freeze the Index was unprecedented, and would have cost certain localities in Northern Virginia $128.3 million in state education funding.

Speaking about his decision, Governor McDonnell stated, “For nearly forty years, the Local Composite Index has been an impartial means by which to determine state and local responsibility for education funding in Virginia. The application of this Index has always been done in an objective manner, using the most recent fiscal data to most fairly apportion state resources. For many school districts, particularly in Northern Virginia, the biennial update of the Index has meant far less funding from the state than that received by school districts in localities experiencing lesser rates of economic growth. Accordingly, I will not support the proposed freeze in the budget introduced by the previous Administration. The Local Composite Index must be applied to all localities, at all times, in the same objective and fair manner by which it has always been utilized.”

McDonnell continued, “The decision to continue to update the Local Composite Index is one that I reached after extensive meetings with my finance staff, legislators, and local government officials. I thank all these individuals for their input and thoughts during the process. Ensuring that we have a fair formula that is implemented without regard to temporary or political considerations is the best means by which to appropriate education funding in the Commonwealth. Every time the Index is readjusted some school systems gain funding, while others receive less. This has occurred for nearly forty years, and local officials understand the routine and objective biennial implementation of the Index.”

In announcing his decision to undo the proposed freeze of the Index, McDonnell also identified specific budget savings to account for the additional state spending required. The update will cost the state $29 million in FY 2011. To cover this increased funding, McDonnell will recommend to the General Assembly the transfer of $13 million from Literary Fund balances; $8 million through the use of available balances in the Health Insurance Fund to reduce state health insurance premiums; $5.2 million will be found in Real ID savings and an available $3 million will be captured in additional Non-General Fund balances. Budget recommendations will continue to be made and communicated to the legislature in the coming days.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano today announced the launch of a new online public engagement tool designed to solicit input from the public on ways to enhance transparency, participation, collaboration and innovation at the Department — part of President Obama’s Open Government Directive.

“Creating an open, transparent, more efficient and effective government is one of our top priorities at the Department of Homeland Security,” said Secretary Napolitano. “This new online tool allows the public to play a major part in our Department-wide efforts to enhance openness and accessibility.”

The new online tool — available from Feb.6-March 19 at www.dhs.gov/open allows members of the public and interested stakeholders to submit ideas and suggestions on ways DHS can enhance transparency, participation, collaboration and innovation — while saving taxpayer money.

The ideas submitted will help guide the development of an official DHS Open Government plan.

On Dec. 8, 2009, President Obama issued the Open Government Directive to begin breaking down long-standing barriers between the federal government and the people it serves, and instructed agencies to take immediate, specific steps to open their doors and data to the American people. Agencies across the federal government will begin engaging the public through similar online tools this week.

For more information, visit www.dhs.gov/open

Current forecasts are indicating the potential of another significant snowfall over primarily northern and northwestern Virginia from Tuesday through Wednesday. The forecast remains uncertain and specific snowfall amounts, and locations which will see the greatest impact, will most likely change over the next 36 hours.

Governor McDonnell noted, “A large part of Virginia continues to recover from this past weekend’s snowstorm. The storm left 6 inches or more of snow on the ground from the Richmond metropolitan area to the north and west, with historic amounts of two to three feet common across northern and northwestern Virginia. This storm has led to a statewide effort to plow roads, restore power and assist Virginians. Now, with the possibility of additional accumulating snow, focused on the regions of Virginia that saw the greatest amounts this weekend, it is important that the State of Emergency be updated, and all relevant state agencies prepare for this new event. I continue to ask Virginians to stay alert to the forecasts for their area and make sure your family and neighbors are ready for additional hazardous weather conditions. As this new storm affects the Commonwealth, and we continue to respond to this most recent winter weather event, please stay off the roads and contact local authorities if help is needed.”

In declaring a state of emergency, the governor authorizes state agencies to identify and position resources for quick response anywhere they are needed in Virginia. A state of emergency must be issued in advance to allow for proper and effective preparation. State agencies are getting ready for the storm by taking several actions, including:

• The Virginia Department of Emergency Management has held weather conference calls with the National Weather Service, state agencies and local governments.
• The Virginia Department of State Police and the Department of Transportation are working to keep roadways clear and assist motorists.
• The Virginia National Guard has personnel on state active duty assisting several localities.
• The Virginia Emergency Operations Center has been fully operational since last Friday night. Emergency officials and representatives from several state agencies, major utilities and other affiliated organizations remain in place to coordinate assistance to local governments.

Virginians are encouraged to have an emergency kit in their home and vehicle that includes water, food, a battery-powered radio, blankets, flashlight and extra batteries. Also, citizens should monitor news outlets for updates on this developing storm, and check road conditions before they leave home by calling 511 or logging in to 511Virginia.org. Virginians can receive information about shelters in their area by dialing 211 or by calling their local emergency manager. For emergencies call 911.

In areas where additional significant snowfall or icing occurs, Virginians are encouraged to stay off the roads until the storm abates and roads are cleared.

More information about winter weather preparedness is available at http://www.vaemergency.com/threats/winter/index.cfm

Detailed information about how Virginians can stay safe during an emergency is available at www.ReadyVirginia.gov and in Spanish at www.ListoVirginia.gov.

More 12-Hour Shifts for VDOT Employees? Photo by Tom Saunders, VDOT.

Once more, winter weather is in the forecast and motorists should be alert to changing road conditions.

According to forecasters, precipitation in the form of snow flurries is expected to reach northern portions of the Lynchburg District of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) on Tuesday morning and continue into Wednesday. At times the snow may be heavy and/or mix with icy precipitation. Southern parts of the district may start as mixed precipitation and transition to rain and to wet snow showers.

VDOT offers the following tips for driving in winter weather:

• Avoid unnecessary travel. If you must drive, know the current road conditions and weather forecasts. Call 511 or visit www.511Virginia.org.
• Make sure your windows, mirrors and lights are clear of ice and snow.
• Always wear your seat belt.
• Allow extra time to travel to your destination.
• Be aware of potentially icy areas such as bridges, overpasses and shady spots.
• Reduce speed and keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles.
• Do not pass a snowplow unless it is absolutely necessary.
• Keep an emergency winter driving kit in your car, including a small bag of rock salt, sand or cat litter to provide traction in case you get stuck, a snowbrush and ice scraper, a flashlight, battery booster cables, a blanket and extra clothing.
• Practice common sense. Remember that your car cannot start, stop, or turn as quickly and surely on snow or ice as it does on dry pavement, so think and drive accordingly.

The Lynchburg District consists of the counties of Amherst, Appomattox, Buckingham, Campbell, Charlotte, Cumberland, Halifax, Nelson, Pittsylvania and Prince Edward.

Lovin' the Google Parisian Love Ad

The score is final and the points are tallied — for both the Super Bowl and for the Kellogg School Super Bowl Advertising Review. Google earned top marks for its “How to Impress a French Woman” ad, winning the sixth annual, ever-popular Review.

“This year’s Super Bowl featured several effective ads, making the Review an exciting learning experience for the students,” said Clinical Professor of Marketing Tim Calkins, who leads the event. “The overarching goal for Super Bowl advertisers is a successful ad that resonates with their target audience. Based on our framework, Google really embraced the key elements of a winning Super Bowl commercial with both its sentimental and practical execution.”

Google earned the title of champion from the Review panel, which was comprised of MBA students from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Google edged out fellow “A” grade advertisers including Denny’s, Audi, Volkswagen, Dodge and Snickers. With three auto spots scoring in the top five, automakers surprised viewers by creating memorable ads that broke through the clutter.

With the pre-game buzz surrounding Focus on the Family for its anti-abortion sentiment and U.S. Census, which used government dollars, the panel thought the ads fell flat and didn’t live up to the strategic framework. Other advertisers that received low marks from the panel included Honda and Bridgestone.

Associate Professor of Marketing Derek Rucker, who also leads the Review, noted, “Companies now need to leverage the buzz to increase their ROI. Turning the advertising into consumer action is the next step and the best companies know that. The marketing departments will be working overtime for that reason.”

Unlike other popularity-based reviews, the Kellogg School Super Bowl Advertising Review uses a strategic academic framework known as ADPLAN. The acronym, developed by Kellogg faculty, instructs viewers to grade ads based on Attention, Distinction, Positioning, Linkage, Amplification and Net equity.

About the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University

The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University was founded in 1908 and is widely recognized as a global leader in management education. The school, located just outside of Chicago, is home to a renowned, research-based faculty and MBA students from around the globe. The Kellogg School’s academic portfolio includes the Full-Time, Part-Time and Executive MBA Programs, the Ph.D. Program, and the executive degree and certificate Executive Education Programs. The school offers two joint-degree programs: the JD-MBA and the MMM (MBA-MEM). Additionally, the Kellogg School of Management offers an Executive MBA Program in Miami and has alliances with business schools in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Canada. To learn more, please visit www.kellogg.northwestern.edu.

Google Parisian Love 2010 Super Bowl XLIV Commercial Ad HD

Rows of Healthy Lettuc

The following list contains the dates of last planting for fall, cold hardiness and some favorite varieties. Note: this information is based on experience of growing crops in zone 6b (winter low ~0°F) here in central Virginia, first fall frost ~10/15, heavy winter temperatures not kicking in until late Dec/early January (i.e., daytime temperatures not getting above freezing, nights below 10°). Cold hardiness also varies with varieties, the health of the garden soil (healthier and more nutritious the soil = the hardier the plants), wind chill factor, etc.

• Broccoli (6/1-7/1) — 28° — leaves can handle to 15°, but heads are more tender
• Cabbage (6/1-7/1) — 20-25° — if damaged by frost, harvest and peel off any damaged layers before storing.
• Chinese Cabbage (7/31) — 25°
• Cauliflower (6/1-7/1) — 32° — leaves can handle to 15°, but heads damage easily.
• Kohlrabi (8/15) (Early Purple Vienna) — 20°? not sure.
• Green onions (8/1) (Evergreen Hardy White, Deep Purple) — 25° (purple types have more color in cold weather)
• Garlic (10/1-/11/15) — 5° if not too much top growth (i.e., started ~mid-Oct-early Nov); frost-burned plants will survive, but won’t produce as large a bulb.
• Leeks — (7/15) 10° (probably much lower) (American Flag) (’summer’ types are much more tender, don’t try to overwinter them)
• Collards (9/15) — 12° — start a fall crop, since young collards are shorter/easier to cover.
• Kale (9/15) — Red Russian — 15°
  • Scotch types (Squire, Vates, Siberian) – 12°
• Swiss chard (9/1) — variable – smaller-leaved varieties are the most cold-hardy — 25°?
• Arugula (10/10) — 22° (will bolt in Jan/Feb as days lengthen)
• Even Star Winter Arugula — 6°
• Mustards (9/15) (Red Giant, Southern Curled) — 25° (will bolt in Jan/Feb as days lengthen)
  • Tat Soi Mustard (up to 10/15 — do succession plantings 1-2 weeks apart) 22° (good mustard to overwinter — hardy, close to ground, easy to cover — but will bolt in Jan/Feb as days lengthen)
  • New Star Mustard, Chinese Thick-Stem Mustard — Even’ Star winter-hardy varieties — 6-12°
• Parsley — flat leaf (7/15) — 20° (Flat Leaf Italian) (best for flavor and drying, but less hardy)
  • Curly leaf (7/15) — 15° (Moss Curled) (not as good flavor, but prettier, more hardy)
• Cilantro — (9/15-10/1) 15° (plant earlier for fall harvests, later for overwintering crops — younger/smaller plants overwinter best). In hot soil, cilantro can have trouble germinating — see notes under Watering.
• Dill (9/15) – 25° (Fernleaf)
• Spinach (Long Standing Bloomsdale, Winter Bloomsdale) (9/10-9/25) — 10° (large leaves), 5° (small leaves). Wait until cool weather to seed — doesn’t germinate/survive well in hot soil.
• Sorrel (Broad Leaved) (9/1) — 12° (large leaves), 5° (small leaves)
• Salad Burnet (9/1) — 0° (leaves have strong cucumber flavor — use small amounts for salads)
• Endive, escarole — 25° and lower (similar to lettuce)
• Radicchio — 25° and lower
• Lettuce — 25° (large leaves), 15° and lower (small leaves) (Red Salad Bowl, Bronze Arrow, Winter Density, Rouge d’Hiver, Red Sails) (Red lettuces are best for cold weather — the cold makes the red colors more intense, whereas in cold weather green lettuces look more yellow and sickly.) Lettuce can have a hard time germinating in hot soil — see notes under Watering.
  • Large lettuce: 9/15. (Large heads don’t handle very cold weather well — usually rot and decline fast ~mid-December.)
  • Small lettuce to overwinter: 10/1-/15; get it to 4-10 leaves before winter — it’ll slow down, then mature in February/March.
• Beets (9/15) (Lutz Green Leaf, Chioggia, Bulls Blood) — 20° (roots), 16° (leaves). For fall crop, either seed by 6/15, or wait until cool weather to try again — doesn’t germinate/survive well in hot soil.
• Radishes (11/1) — 20° (roots), 16° (leaves) (Cherry Belle)
• Daikon radishes, fall radishes (8/1-8/15) — 20° (roots), 16° (leaves) (Misato Rose, China Rose, Black Spanish Round, Miyashige White Daikon)
• Parsnips (6/1) — 0° (get very sweet in cold weather!!) (Harris Model, Hollow Crown)
• Carrots (8/31) — 12° (Danvers, Oxheart)
• Rutabagas (8/15) — 20° (roots), 16° (leaves) (American Purple Top Yellow)
• Turnips (9/30) — 20° (roots), 16° (leaves) (Purple Top White Globe) (Seven Top — greens only)
• Salsify (6/15) (Sandwich Island Mammoth) — 20°? Not sure
• Jerusalem artichokes (sunchokes) — leave in ground, harvest anytime after frost and until the following April
• Other plants not covered here which I don’t have enough experience with to mention: corn salad (mache), cress, minutina, claytonia; fall crops of peas, calendula, borage.

Next week: Learn more about pests, storage and planning for vegetables. Brought to you by Southern Exposure Seed Exchange, located in Mineral, VA. Phone: 540-894-9480
Fax: 540-894-9481.

Perriello-Markey Bill says no to insurance companies.

For 65 years, the insurance industry has been one of the only sectors other than Major League Baseball to be exempted from America’s anti-monopoly laws. Under the 1945 McCarran-Ferguson Act, insurance companies have long been shielded from federal prosecution for bid rigging, price fixing, and dividing up market territories. When monopolies are legalized, consumers, competition and quality all suffer, as premiums skyrocket for middle class families. This is the kind of law that only makes sense in Washington because of who writes the checks; for decades, the insurance lobby has held tightly to this exemption.

So last Friday, I unveiled a bill that would end monopoly protections and restore competition among health and medical malpractice insurance companies. The bill is just two pages long and costs the government nothing while saving millions for consumers and government programs.

Congresswoman Betsy Markey and I co-authored this legislation to ensure that patients, doctors, and taxpayers no longer suffer from the flagrant price gouging that is all too common today. Due in part to the lack of competition, health insurance premiums have more than doubled since 2000. That means America’s working families are paying twice as much as they were a decade ago. Moreover, the health insurance industry has had over 400 mergers in the last 14 years, leaving consumers with fewer choices and less competition. This is simply unfair and un-American.

It is time for politicians in Washington from both sides of the aisle to stop bending to the will of insurance lobbyists and start standing up for the interests of American families.

I have heard from thousands of constituents across the 5th District and know that patients and doctors desperately need relief from the soaring costs of health and medical malpractice insurance. However, many constituents also raised concerns over the length and complexity of health care legislation. In an effort to produce legislation that is clear, concise, and easy to understand, our bill is just one page, double-sided.

Simply stated, it will require health and medical malpractice insurance companies to play by the same rules as other industries and every small business in our own district. This commonsense bill will lead to increased competition among insurers and lower premiums for all Americans. The rising prices that hospitals and doctors face for medical malpractice insurance drain resources that could otherwise be put towards improving patient care. This bill is a huge step toward restoring confidence to consumers, assuring all Americans that health and medical malpractice insurance companies are not colluding on the prices they charge and the choices they offer.

While Rep. Markey and I voted differently on the initial health care reform bill, we both agree that, particularly in this tough economic climate, it is crucial to give the middle class a real choice on the price and quality of their coverage. Health insurance companies should not enjoy special treatment while hard-working Virginians sacrifice to pay artificially inflated premiums. It has long been our common priority to repeal the health care industry’s exemption from the basic rules of competition that govern virtually every other American industry. And we are not alone in this fight.

Many of our Republican colleagues have previously supported similar measures to protect consumers and promote competition in the health and medical malpractice insurance industries. Therefore, by repealing McCarran-Ferguson, we will be taking an important bipartisan step toward providing quality and affordable health care to all Americans.

Please feel free to contact me to share your concerns and ideas. You may call 1-888-4-TOM4US (1-888-486-6487); write to 1520 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515; or visit www.perriello.house.gov to sign up for my weekly e-newsletter.

Saturday traffic on I-64 east in Goochland County. Photo by Tom Saunders, VDOT.

Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) crews continue around-the clock efforts to clear historic snowfall accumulations throughout much of the commonwealth. Crews will continue their focus on interstate and primary highways until snowfall ceases overnight. In areas generally north of Interstate 64 and west of the Northern Neck, heavy snowfall accumulations will slow typical plow response times, especially for lower traffic secondary roads and subdivision streets.

“VDOT’s number one priority is clearing roadways to make them safe,” said Gregory Whirley, acting commissioner. “We start with interstate highways and major primary roads with the goal of making all roads passable 48 hours after the end of a typical snowstorm. In the southern and far eastern portions of the state, we will likely achieve that goal. However, because of the historic amount of snow that has fallen in areas of VDOT’s Staunton, Culpeper, Fredericksburg, and Northern Virginia districts — in some places topping two feet of accumulation — we expect it will take us several additional days to clear secondary roads and subdivision streets. We ask for motorists’ patience while we continue working day and night to plow all state-maintained roadways.”

In Northern Virginia, snow-removal is further complicated during this storm as crews are having to haul away truckloads of snow from I-66 and other major highways because snowplows have no place left to push snow from the roadway. This effort adds to the time it takes to clear snow. Below-freezing temperatures also cause snow to pack into ice, which is more difficult and time consuming for road crews to address.

Motorists can expect treacherous road conditions through much of the northern portion of Virginia today and Sunday. VDOT encourages motorists to stay off roads unless travel is absolutely necessary.

The agency reminds motorists to use extreme caution if they must drive, and contact 511 or www.511virginia.org to get the latest in road closures and traveler information before they decide to leave home.

Drivers should also be wary of black ice forming on roadways that have been cleared as temperatures drop throughout the day and into the overnight hours.

Secondary Road Plowing Information

• The main, more heavily traveled roads in a subdivision will be plowed first, to be followed by low-volume roads and cul-de-sacs.
• Plows generally will make one or two trips to provide a path through neighborhood streets, but they will not clear to bare pavement or from curb to curb.
• Because chemicals are not as heavily used in subdivisions, roads will remain snow-packed and rutted after the plow has passed. Crews will put sand on hills, curves and intersections as needed to provide traction.
• If planning to shovel driveways, residents should refrain from clearing the last few feet at the curb until your street is plowed, as plows may inadvertently push snow back into driveways. It also helps to shovel to the right of your driveway as you face the road to help plows keep from pushing snow back into your driveway.
• VDOT does not remove snow from sidewalks or trails.
• VDOT plow drivers have assigned routes that include each and every state-maintained road in Virginia.
• Call 911 if you have a medical emergency and need to leave your home and VDOT will work with emergency responders to reach your home.

Route 29 South below Charlottesville December '09.

UPDATE (Sat. 6 Feb. 5:00 pm): Wintry precipitation has stopped falling in the Lynchburg District of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) but motorists still face difficult travel conditions in many areas.

As of 4:00 p.m., major roads in Buckingham, Campbell, Charlotte, Cumberland, Halifax and Prince Edward counties were clear and those in Amherst, Appomattox, and Pittsylvania counties had isolated spots of snow/ice. Primary roads in Nelson County vary from spotty snow/ice to snow covered.

Crews have been able to make progress on numerous secondary roads. Secondary routes in Charlotte County were clear and those in Appomattox, Campbell and Halifax counties had spots of snow and ice. Snow covered secondaries were common in Amherst, Buckingham, Cumberland, Nelson, Pittsylvania and Prince Edward counties.

Route 619 in Charlotte County and Route 716 in Halifax County were still blocked by standing water and numerous secondary roads in Pittsylvania County were blocked by flooding, as well as downed trees and power lines.

Motorists should continue to use caution today and early Sunday. Cold temperatures will create icy conditions, including the refreezing of melted snow and the possibility of black ice.

If travel is necessary, motorists should start their trip by knowing the conditions. Call 511 or visit www.511Virginia.org.  Unless conditions deteriorate greatly, this will be the last report for this storm.

UPDATE (Sat. 6 Feb. 9:30 am): The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) urges motorists to avoid travel during the winter storm that is affecting the entire commonwealth. Crews have been working non-stop to clear the roads. However, conditions remain extremely dangerous. Drivers should only travel if absolutely necessary.

Travel conditions across the commonwealth are hazardous. There are downed trees, power outages, snow totals close to two feet and flooding in parts of the state.

VDOT emergency responders have worked around-the-clock to plow interstate and primary roads, and snow removal efforts will continue throughout the duration of the storm. Plows and other equipment will be shifted to the secondary road system as conditions on the major highways allow.

Motorists should avoid travel. However, the agency reminds motorists to use caution if they must drive, and contact 511 or www.511virginia.org to get the latest in road closures and traveler information.

UPDATE (5:00 pm): The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) continues to respond to precipitation — snow, a wintry mix, freezing rain and rain — as it falls across the commonwealth. VDOT crews will continue to apply sand and salt to roadways to give drivers traction and melt snow and ice. In some areas, crews have begun pushing the slushy mix off the road. There typically needs to be at least two inches of accumulation on the road for crews to plow effectively.

Drivers are urged to avoid travel throughout the weekend, but if you must drive, be especially careful on bridges and overpasses, as ice may form more quickly in these areas. A difference in just a few degrees of air or ground temperatures will impact how much snow or sleet will accumulate on roads. VDOT requests that drivers provide plenty of room for crews to get through.

In Northern Virginia, extreme conditions of up to two feet of heavy, wet snow and wind gusts up to 30 miles per hour will cause snow to drift, limit visibility and make driving increasingly hazardous. Conditions have improved in some areas of southwestern Virginia, while the wintry mix currently falling over central Virginia continues to cause dangerous driving conditions.

Crews first clear interstates, primary roads and major secondary roads that connect localities, fire stations, employment hubs, military posts, schools, hospitals and other important public facilities. The following tips and resources can help motorists stay safe.

UPDATE (11:00 am): Wintry weather began to fall across much of the western portion of the commonwealth this morning and motorists need to be alert to rapidly changing conditions. Periods of snow, rain, sleet and/or freezing rain are possible throughout today and Saturday.

At 6:00 a.m., primary routes in Pittsylvania, Amherst and Nelson counties had isolated spots of snow while those in Campbell County had snow on major portions of the roadways. In addition, secondary roads throughout the area were becoming snow covered.

At 10:15 a.m., snow was falling across the entire Lynchburg District of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and road conditions were rapidly changing. Primary routes in Amherst, Buckingham, Charlotte, Cumberland, Halifax, Nelson, and Prince Edward counties had isolated spots of snow, while those in Appomattox, Campbell and Pittsylvania counties were snow covered.

VDOT crews were involved in full operations and were pushing snow and applying salt, sand or abrasives, as appropriate .

PREVIOUSLY: Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) crews have hardly had a chance to park their snowplows, restock salt and sand supplies, and get rest between blasts of winter weather in the past few weeks. The agency has rallied its resources and is ready to address a major winter storm expected to impact much of the commonwealth Friday and Saturday.

VDOT crews are still completing cleanup efforts from two other winter storms that impacted parts of Virginia in the past week. Meanwhile they are restocking salt and sand supplies and applying anti-icing chemicals on many of the commonwealth’s most traveled pavements and bridges in anticipation of this weekend’s wintry mix.

VDOT has expended the $79 million it allotted statewide for snow-removal efforts this year as of Feb. 1, and has now tapped into emergency maintenance reserve funds to pay for snow removal. Once that $25 million reserve fund is exhausted, VDOT will move money from non-safety-related maintenance programs to cover any additional snow removal needs this winter.

“Motorist safety is always the top priority for VDOT — whether responding to winter weather or when conducting day-to-day operations,” said Gregory Whirley, acting commissioner. “We will not reduce service levels or scale back on snow-removal efforts regardless of how much it costs this year. Our crews will be out in full force this week and for the rest of the winter no matter what the impact is to our budget. We will not cut back on our work to make Virginia’s roadways safer for drivers, despite our funding challenges.”

The following tips and resources can help motorists stay safe.

VDOT’s Winter Weather Tools

VDOT continues to use the latest anti-icing techniques. Anti-icing involves applying chemicals to roadways before a storm to prepare the pavement and prevent a bond from forming between the surface and the snow and ice. VDOT will use anti-icing chemicals, including salt brine, magnesium chloride and calcium chloride, on roads around the state this winter.

VDOT has 2,314 pieces of snow removal equipment, 3,146 crew members, 62,000 tons of sand and 239,000 tons of salt available to keep roads clear.

Driving Tips

VDOT reminds motorists to use caution when driving during wintry weather. Drivers should:

• Check road conditions before they leave home by calling 511 or logging in to www.511Virginia.org
• Slow down and allow for extra time to reach your destination
• Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges
• Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles and trucks that are plowing the road
• Do not pass a snowplow or spreader unless it is absolutely necessary

Priorities for Clearing Roads

VDOT’s goal for typical snowstorms is to have all roads passable within 48 hours after a storm ends. Crews first clear interstates, primary roads and major secondary roads that connect localities, fire stations, employment hubs, military posts, schools, hospitals and other important public facilities. They will then treat secondary roads and subdivision streets if multi-day storms hit Virginia, but crews will focus efforts on those roads that carry the most traffic.

Motorist Resources

VDOT has a variety of information sources for road condition updates. The 511 traveler-information service gives drivers the most up-to-date data available about weather, construction and accidents that may affect travel. Updates can be received by calling 511 from any landline or wireless phone or by going online to www.511virginia.org to view traffic cameras, the road condition map and the road condition table-report.

For overall winter weather information, VDOT’s Web site includes frequently asked questions, driving tips and tools for motorists to learn more about VDOT’s winter preparedness at http://www.virginiadot.org/travel/snow.asp.

Drivers can also view videos detailing how VDOT prepares for winter weather and address snow and ice on You Tube at http://www.youtube.com/user/vdotweb#grid/user/84A0942814F2FECC

For more information about Virginia’s efforts to prepare for winter weather and other emergencies, visit www.ReadyVirginia.gov. The National Weather Service, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, Virginia Department of Social Services and other state agencies have created the “Ready Virginia” resource to provide residents and visitors with a one-stop shop for emergency preparedness tips and information.