The Roanoke Group of the Sierra Club Virginia Chapter represents over 800 members across 10 counties (Bath, Alleghany, Amherst, Bedford, Rockbridge, Botetort, Roanoke, Franklin, Patrick and Henry).
Though there are many environmental issues, our primary focus is rapid climate change. If we fail to address this growing threat, nothing else will matter. The most effective way to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases is to transition to renewable energy, with wind being the biggest producer and solar making encouraging gains.
According to American Clean Power, Virginia ranks 35th with 6.2% of the electricity generated within the state coming from solar and energy storage plants. We still have no wind farms.
Our work is cut out for us here in Southwest Virginia.
2024 Ex Com Election - Candidate Statements and Voting Process
Voting Process
Ex Com elections are held every year. Terms are for two years, so members run for re-election every other year. This year's candidates are incumbents Dan Crawford and Virginia Pannabecker, whose statements follow. Votes must be sent to Dan Crawford at dbcrawford@cox.net by December 15.
Dan Crawford - Candidate - Chair
After nearly 15 years on the executive committee, and chair for 12, I am energized by the growing need for active advocacy of environmental protection. If we do not accelerate the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, nothing else will matter. We are in front of the public as a group every month, and solo weekly, bolstering the Club’s standing and demonstrating our commitment. We continue to speak in support of wind and solar development at planning commission and BOS meetings in our area.
I hope our efforts energize you and mine earn your vote for re-election to the executive committee.
Virginia Pannabecker - Candidate - Webmaster
A newer Sierra Club member, I joined the Roanoke Group as the webmaster in 2022. I appreciate the energy and activities of the group and opportunities to participate in monthly climate action events, as well as contributing to public comment in governmental meetings and group statements to communicate important priorities for environmental protection and climate action in our communities. In the last 2 years, I completed all Sierra Club training for group webmasters and transitioned the prior website content to the new website, as well as adding new content created by the group. I will continue to grow the website with the group. Thank you for considering me for the webmaster position on the executive committee.