Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: THURSDAY, April 28, 1994                   TAG: 9404280199
SECTION: CURRENT                    PAGE: NRV-11   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: By STEPHEN FOSTER STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: BLACKSBURG                                LENGTH: Short

BLACKSBURG SWEARS IN NEW POLICE CHIEF

In Town Council chambers packed with Brown's family, town residents and police officers, Mayor Roger Hedgepeth administered the oath that officially made Brown the department's top man.

Hedgepeth said he could do little more than repeat Town Manager Ron Secrist's sentiments, that "Bill Brown may very well be the perfect police chief for Blacksburg."

Brown's "greatest asset does not show up on paper," Hedgepeth said. "It's underneath the badge I just pinned on - his heart."

After shaking Hedgepeth's hand and grabbing his elbow, Brown said, "Now it's my turn to talk."

"I recognize this badge as a symbol of public faith, and I accept it," he said. "This is the citizens' department.

"My ultimate goal is to continue to make our community a special place to live. Thank you." He then turned to the crowd with open arms.

Old habits die slowly though, and for the 24-year veteran, there may be one small sticking point that Brown may have to deal with for awhile: getting people over a certain habit.

Hedgepeth, who was about to begin the council's regular meeting, offered those who came to see the ceremony a chance to leave and attend a reception for Brown in the hall outside.

"Those of you who wish to enjoy fellowship with Capt. Brown - Chief Brown - may do so at this time," he said. Afterward, almost vowing, he said, "I don't think I'll do it again."