A group of visitors from the University of Sioux Falls said they are already enjoying their stay here, taking in the sights and sounds of the seven hills.

Beth O’Toole and her friends were enjoying antique shopping today at the Smart Shop Antique Mall and Flea Market on North Broad Street. So far, they find the Rome area to be historic and pretty.

“It’s definitely warmer than home, which is also a selling point,” O’Toole said.

Another visitor, Amanda Anderson, said that Romans have been “hospitable, very friendly and welcoming,” so far for their stay.

“We’re looking for something unique in the area,” she said.

Tonight they’ll join the team at First Baptist Church for dinner, while Lindenwood University will be treated to dinner at the First Presbyterian Church.

Local businesses putting out welcome mat for visitors

Downtown businesses were gearing up this morning for what they hope will be a busy weekend of shopping during the NAIA championship.

Bella Luna owner Lee Ann Dempsey said she’s been volunteering all this week to help out with the preparations for the NAIA National Championship game being held Saturday at Barron Stadium.

To show her off her championship spirit, she placed balloons outside her store featuring the team colors of Lindenwood University and the University of Sioux Falls.

“We’re doing everything we can to make the out-of-towners in for the game feel welcome,” she said. “And we’re hoping they’ll take advantage of what downtown Rome has to offer.”

NAIA weekend: Lindenwood, Sioux Falls players visit local schools By Daniel Bell

Half of the players from Lindenwood University visited students at Pepperell Primary School this morning.

Most greeted large groups of kids in the cafeteria, giving them advice and answering questions. Terance Jackson, a wide receiver from Vidalia, Ga., told students, "Work hard, stay determined, and everything will work out for you."

They also encouraged students to come out to the game Saturday, and to cheer for the team in the white jerseys when they do.

A few other Lindenwood players visited classrooms and read books to students at Pepperell. The other half of their teammates visited East Cental Elementary.

Principal Carmen Jones said she was thrilled to have the players on campus, saying they are a positive influence for the students.

Meanwhile, players and coaches from the University of Sioux Falls visited Elm Street and West End Elementary schools.

At FCA breakfast, Jones stresses importance of relationships By Jeremy Stewart

With both teams competing for Saturday’s NAIA Football National Championship in town Thursday morning, the festivities for Championship Week were ready to begin.

The day got off to a bright and early start as the football teams from the University of Sioux Falls and Lindenwood University attended the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Champions of Character Breakfast at The Forum.

Shorter College head football coach and 2009 FCA Grant Teaff Coach of the Year Award winner Phil Jones was the keynote speaker.

“With two championship caliber teams, two outstanding football teams, here today as well as the coaches, cheerleaders, fans and parents, we’re excited about you being here,” Jones said.

He discussed the importance of the role of relationships in the pursuit of excellence, both on the field and in life.

“Maybe that gets left behind a lot of times when you examine greatness, but I assure you that it is part of these two teams,” Jones said.

“In the midst of preparation however, you must not forget the relationships that you have that motivate you to give of yourself.”

Tickets to the championship game Saturday at Barron Stadium are $25 and can be purchased at forumevents.org online, or by calling The Forum at 706-291-5281. Fans may also purchase tickets at the gate on game day.