NF Celebrates Packers, Starks Victory
2:22 PM, Feb 7, 2011
Written by
Patrick Moussignac
FILED UNDER
Western New York News
NIAGARA FALLS, NY - They may not all be Green Bay Packers fans, but they certainly came out to the Old Falls Sports Bar to cheer on and support Niagara Falls' very own James Starks.
Darlene Brewer sat in front of the restaurant's big screen TV to watch Starks and the Packers play.
"It's just a wonderful thing for the whole city, and it's just a wonderful thing for Green Bay."
Darlene Easterling joined her for the game.
"Knowing the family, and knowing him, it's just wonderful. I feel like I'm a part."
Starks was not only a star player on the UB Bulls football squad, but was also a stand out at Niagara Falls High School. Former high school teammate Bert Dyster was there to cheer on Starks every time he carried the ball.
"It's surprising, it's not as different than seeing him play. I went to UB, I didn't play at UB, but I got to see him play there so I've had a nice opportunity to see him play."
Dyster wasn't not alone. His father, Niagara Falls Mayor Paul Dyster, also knew Starks as he grew up. Dyster says he's proud of Starks and his accomplishments.
"I'm very proud about the way he has handled this sudden, almost instant success. The humility and the grace with which he dealt with his sudden stardom, I think is a fantastic example for all our kids."
A few Pittsburgh Steelers fans were also watching there to watch the game. Although outnumbered, Alena Brown was happy to see how a community rallied around one of their own.
"That's good that they support him here. We have the same support for our athletes in Pittsburgh and it's good to see it here. So congratulations to him for making the Super Bowl. I wish him the best...We're still going to win."
Unfortunately for Brown, the Steelers came up short in their bid to win the Super Bowl. Mayor Dyster tells Channel 2 News that he will present Starks a key to the city when he returns.
Starks mother spoke with Two On Your Side's Dave McKinley on Monday, shortly after returning from the Super Bowl. Watch his report on Channel 2 News first at Five.