ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Thursday, January 4, 1996 TAG: 9601040016
SECTION: NEIGHBORS PAGE: E-2 EDITION: METRO
TYPE: LETTERS
This is my third trip to Virginia for an NCAA championship event, and words truly cannot express the feelings I have for the people of Salem. From the moment I arrived into town in 1993, myself, the team and our fans were showered with kindness and made to feel welcome.
From the Sheraton to the ground crew, everyone went out of his way to make our stay a memorable one. The Murphys and the Miles, our host families, are wonderful people who are now personal friends because of the relationship developed during our first Stagg Bowl appearance.
In today's world with the "What can you do for me" mentality and the Big Dogs (Division I) reaping millions from bowl appearances, shoe deals etc., a community, nestled among the Blue Ridge mountains, managed to extend the hand of friendship and giving to a group of young men who pay for their education and buy their own football shoes just to play a game they love. You managed to make these student athletes feel special and I assure you no one will forget this experience - Division III athletics at its best.
Thank you and congratulations Salem for putting on the Show of Shows. In return I wish you all a healthy, happy and blessed New Year.
Joy L. Reighn
Director of Athletics,
Rowan College
LENGTH: Short : 37 linesby CNB