Collegiate Times

This week Virginia Tech issued an open letter to the community, extending gratitude and appreciation to the police for their efforts during last week?s manhunt for escaped inmate William Charles Morva.

?While we cannot individually acknowledge the many brave souls, we still think it important to publicly thank the departments who participated,? the letter, signed by Virginia Tech President Charles Steger, said.

The letter also extended thanks to the university staff and Blacksburg municipal leaders, and to Virginia Governor Tim Kaine for his support.

It expressed sorrow over the loss of Montgomery Regional Hospital security guard Derrick McFarland and Montgomery County Sheriff?s Deputy Cpl. Eric Sutphin, and encourages contributions to funds established for their families.

?Your contributions can now make a difference for the lives they leave behind and commemorate their sacrifice,? the letter stated.

In another fundraising effort for the families of Eric Sutphin and Derrick McFarland, The Montgomery County Sheriff?s Office raised $11,300 last Saturday by holding a carwash put together by family members of the sheriff?s department.

Volunteers included members of the sheriff?s department, the Christiansburg Police Department and the Christiansburg Rescue Squad along with their families. About 150 cars were washed and $2,500 was collected within the first two hours.

Contributions can be made to the following addresses:

Derrick McFarland Memorial Fund
First National Bank
P.O. Box 600
Christiansburg, VA 24068

Eric E. Sutphin Memorial Trust
First National Bank
P.O. Box 600
Christiansburg, VA 24068