http://stuartmease.disqus.com/enMon, 15 Sep 2008 20:59:09 -0000http://www.stuartmease.com/2008-09/boulder-colorado-article-best-summarizes-what-we-need-to-do-in-the-rnr-roanoke-and-new-river-valleys-of-virginia/#comment-2367332In greater Boulder, the University is a central piece of the landscape. In Roanoke, there is no central or city-based University, although the Higher Education Center is a good start. Boulder has Perl Street Mall which is designed to encourage pedestrian traffic. This Boulder Mall also has several high-end, nationally recognized stores as well as smaller, local shops. Roanoke is struggling to maintain the few national stores/restaurants that are located here - I've heard that Panera Bread has closed on occasion because of lack of labor. In my opinion, Boulder's general attitude is one of controlled growth and expansion. Roanoke, on the other hand, seems to be content where it currently is; in fact, Roanoke would rather be living in the 1950s.Mark EbelMon, 15 Sep 2008 20:59:09 -0000