August 31, 2004

Mr. Hubert "Petey" Green
President
Prince George's Black Chamber of Commerce
6009 Oxon Hill Road, Suite 208
Oxon Hill, MD 20745

Dear Mr. Green:

It is with great pleasure that I congratulate the Prince George's Black Chamber of Commerce on the inaugural edition of the Prince George's Classic. The Prince George's Classic has created excitement not only at Alcorn State University, but throughout the entire Southwestern Athletic Conference. I believe it is vital to the health of our state and our country to acknowledge and elevate our institutions of higher learning and especially the contributions made by our Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

The Prince George's Black Chamber of Commerce leadership is to be commended on bringing this event to fruition. The event has the potential to grow into an event that builds unity throughout our community. It also serves as a major economic engine for the local community. The Classic gives the community the chance to celebrate the HBCU experience and I can unequivocally say there is no better total experience.

I am aware of the excitement that has been generated throughout the regions as a result of the series of events associated with the Classic. Alcorn State University's participation enables us to engage with growing numbers of friends and hopefully lifelong supporters. Through the institution's 133-year history, Alcorn has become known for placing its graduates in professional school and leading edge research in food and nutrition. Our athletic successes are exemplified by the likes of the all-pro quarterback Steve McNair, a 1995 graduate. Working with the Prince George's Black Chamber of Commerce to launch this historic inaugural Classic represents another milestone in the life of our institution.

We look forward to being a part of this great event and again, we commend you on your efforts to make the Prince George's Classic a new standard bearer in Classics.

Sincerely,
Clinton Bristow, Jr.
President
Alcorn State University