Wild Bill’s Sports Roundup!

Bill Turner
Bill Turner

Autumn is almost here.

Now, we’re talking football weather and the start of ice hockey and basketball. Not to mention the World Series. My time of year.
It also means The Chief will be looking for volunteers to rake the leaves at corporate headquarters. I’m off the hook on that one while my broken leg continues to mend. But, I have it from reliable sources that he bought me a rake just in case he catches me walking around. Sorry, Chief, I’ve got this lazy stuff down pat.
It also means we’re ready for the October-November-December holidays, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas, the perfect trio to give reason to stuff your face.
But, as usual, this column keeps you abreast of other key holidays in the final three months of the year. October 6th: National Mole Day; November 6th: Saxophone Day; December 5th: Bathtub Day. Yes, you always learn something when you read this column. Plus, you’ll be more likely to end up musically talented and clean.
Before you get sidetracked thinking about getting a group into your bathtub, let’s take a look at area sports highlights and events.
The Roanoke Valley Sports Club returns to the Salem Civic Center for its September 19th meeting highlighted by a trio of special guests. First up is Virginia Tech head wrestling coach Kevin Dresser. Next, Mickey Gray, Vice President of Business and Hockey Operations for the Roanoke Railyard Dawgs and Sam Ftorek, head coach of the Dawgs, will fill us in on the exciting hockey season that begins in October as ice hockey returns to Roanoke’s Berglund Center. A 5:45 social will be followed by the 6:00 dinner meeting. Contact Maggie Drewry at 540-353-1103 for additional information or to purchase tickets. Guests and potential new members are cordially invited.
The Salem Red Sox finish up the final week of the regular season before they begin the Southern Division playoffs against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans at Lewis Gale Field on Thursdsay, September 8th. First pitch is set for 7:05.
The Roanoke Star sports team will be on hand for the Battle at Bristol on September 10th as Virginia Tech takes on Tennessee in one of the most anticipated games in college football. (See the game preview in Sports.)
High school football hits high gear this month as Friday Night Lights for our “Big-11” teams give fans plenty to choose from on supporting local squads. Head out to a game of your liking, then get the week’s best recap on Monday in our on-line edition to see how all the teams fared at www.TheRoanokeStar.com.
Now, to the mailbag, where one reader needs betting advice, one needs driving advice and we get feedback from another on the pitfalls of washing your dog.
Dear Wild Bill: I’m looking to bet the barn on The Battle at Bristol. You’re great at predictions, any scoop on which way to go?  (Ed/Roanoke County)
Well, Ed, I contacted my Vegas source, Harry “The Weasel” on this one. Harry tells me Tennessee is an 11-point favorite and the smart money is on the orange. You’re on your own from there. Harry didn’t specify which orange.
Dear Star Sports Dept.: Any driving suggestions for going to Bristol next weekend? (Edna and Murray, Roanoke)
Assuming you’re going to the football game and not antique shopping, here are a few hints. It’s a 2-route trip, Interstate 81 South to Exit 3, then follow the signs straight to the Speedway (about 8 miles through Bristol). Get there early – very early – because the traffic will brutally back up later in the afternoon. You’ll know you’re getting close when you see all the resident’s yards available for parking for a fee.
These are great deals for tailgating, having someone watch your car and being able to find your car after the game. And, bring pillows, food and drinks if you plan to stay until the end of the game, it’s going to be a long haul back to Roanoke. Finally, watch your speed. This is radar city on the return trip.
Dear Wild Product Pitcher: You were right. I tried the “Woof Washer” for my dog and it was simply a drizzly hula hoop with soap. I got wetter than my pup, although I could swear he was laughing at me after I got drenched. Great review.  (Mark/Salem)
Until next time, take my advice and drive slow, stay dry and always bet on the horse that has been cleaned up by the “Woof Washer.” Then send all your comments to me at [email protected].
Bill Turner

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