Virginia Tech was host to the 50th annual conference of SRAPPA, welcoming more than 350 members and guests to the Hotel Roanoke. Physical Plant Director Bill Elvey and his staff did an excellent job in hosting the four-day conference entitled Show Your True Colors in Roanoke, Virginia.

     The weather was beautiful and the display of fall foliage proved Elvey correct, as Virginia Tech continued to show their true colors throughout the entire conference. At least 40 participants kicked off the event Saturday by playing in the annual SRAPPA golf tournament at the Hanging Rock Golf Club, which overlooks the Roanoke Valley. Trophies and prizes were awarded for team and individual efforts. That evening, a reception was held at the hotel with a caricature artist and pianist to liven up the evening.

     The official kick off luncheon was Sunday morning. A bagpiper led the group into a beautifully decorated ballroom and the attendees were entertained by a young group of a cappella singers called the Mixed Emotions. Registration continued and 64 exhibitors set up their booths in one of the hotel's ballrooms for the vendor show.

     The next two days were filled with opportunities for members to gain a wealth of information by attending any of the 28 educational sessions offered.

     The spouses experienced the beauty of fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains as well. During three days, the spouses were taken to the Chateau Morrisette Winery, Mabry's Mill (an old saw mill), and the Virginia Tech campus, where they visited the Center for Real-life Kitchen Design, and The Cave, a virtual reality tour.

     SRAPPA members also enjoyed side trips to Roanoke's Explore Park, a recreational and educational facility where visitors can stroll through three eras, depicting life in Virginia from 1671 to 1850. Additionally, attendees were allowed to tour Virginia Tech's 2,600-acre campus where they were met by the university's marching band, and treated to dinner and entertainment by the New Virginians Vocal Jazz Group Ensemble.

     The conference concluded on Tuesday evening with an exquisite banquet and ceremonies to install the 2002 SRAPPA Board of Directors. A 50th anniversary cake was presented and a champagne toast made by the entire group.

     Next year's conference will be hosted by Robert McMains of Emory University in Atlanta, GA, October 12-15, 2002.