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Harper: 'I'm So Proud of North Park'
By Stan Friedman
PORTLAND, OR (March 6, 2006) - The Portland Trail Blazers drafted North Park
University alumnus Michael Harper because of the way he took opposing
players to task on the hardwood, but the NBA team recently presented him
with its community service award for his educational efforts off the court.
Noting that Harper "has been a visible leader and volunteer in the
Portland community for over twenty years," the Trail Blazers, along with
the Bridge Builders youth organization, recently honored him during
halftime of their game with the Boston Celtics.
Harper has worked with the Boys and Girls Club and other organizations
to help young people in a number of areas, including self-esteem and
drug awareness. Although Harper has an insurance business, he also
serves as the boys head basketball coach at Riverdale High School.
"As a professional athlete, you should give back to the community,"
Harper says. "There's an expectation that you live by your character.
It's important to show young kids that it's important to give back."
Harper was one of eight African-Americans the Trail Blazers honored
during the evening as part of Black History Month. Teenagers from a
local youth program crafted wall hangings from Kente cloth and presented
them to each honoree to signify reverence and respect.
Being on the basketball floor brought back memories. "It was fantastic
being back at mid-court at a Trail Blazers game," says Harper. "I was
reminiscing - and waiting for a jump ball."
Harper speaks with pride as he recalls the magical 1978, 1979, and 1980
seasons when the Vikings won their first three NCAA Division III
championships. "I still wear the rings," he says, adding that his love
for the school hasn't diminished. "A lot of guys don't wear their rings,
but I always wear mine. I'm so proud of North Park."
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