[NU Sports] Dispatch from El Paso

[cherron604 at aol.com]

First, the niceties.
 
- Perfect weather, brilliant sunshine.
 
- A nicely sited stadium, convenient parking and shuttles (but not enough restrooms...)
 
- Extraordinarily fun and friendly hosts.  More than the other bowls, this seemed to be a West Texas annual party, as families and football fans filled the stadium, exchanged good natured ribbing with both sides, and (especially) asked frequently 'What do you think of El Paso ?'  They seemed genuinely pleased when we praised their friendliness, weather, facilities, etc.  The partying/barbecuing/tailgating started early, and was still going after the game.
 
- A nice pre-game, both bands featured, the crowd was very appreciative, and the Army parachute drop was very impressive.  Not a country music fan, but Diamond Rio even seemed to do a nice job.
 
Chuck Herron   Tech '85