ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Friday, October 11, 1996 TAG: 9610110070
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: CODY LOWE
A seminar on protecting houses of worship from arson, vandalism and other acts of violence will be held at the Holiday Inn Airport from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 29.
The state Department of Fire Programs, in conjunction with law enforcement and fire departments from the region, will conduct the free seminar.
Originally, five seminars were scheduled across the state, but Fire Programs spokesman Andrew Smith said this week that the final seminar, scheduled for Abingdon on Oct. 30, may be canceled because of lack of response.
Fires at houses of worship have drawn national attention in recent months, particularly based on evidence that some arsons of black churches in the South were racially motivated. Some groups have contended there is a trend of racially motivated fires, but other investigations dispute that conclusion.
Smith said there has been no evidence so far of any connection - racial or otherwise - among arsons of churches, synagogues or mosques in Virginia in recent years. Many are the result of attempts to defraud insurance companies or acts of vandalism by minors, he said.
In addition to talking about arson protection, the seminar presenters will discuss issues such as how to protect holiday displays and making sure that insurance coverage is adequate.
The seminars are open to representatives of all houses of worship.
Pre-registration is required. Registration forms are available by calling the Roanoke County Fire and Rescue Department at 561-8070, or Smith at (804)527-4236.
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