I am a fan (and you should be too), because...

I was born and raised in Huntington, West Virginia in 1957. I call it my honeysuckle town. As a young child the smell of honeysuckle was like heaven. Then during the 1960's and early 1970's as with most college towns that wonderful scent turned into anger and protest against the Vietnam War. Now, you are probably wondering what this has to do with me being a fan of "DAUGHTRY?" Please, let me explain.

During this time of turmoil I had two things that made sense to me. One was playing backyard football (I was a tomboy) and the second was listening to some of the best music ever made. When my small honeysuckle town started to heal from all of the protests and the loss of our Marshall "Thundering Herd" football team the music just wasn't the same.

As I grew into womanhood my football days were over and I could only become a spectator. In regard to my music I searched and searched for the quality of the music of the past, but to no avail. Then one day on a reality show called "American Idol" this wonderful man by the name of Chris Daughtry came into my world. His music was what I had been searching for, for many years. I noticed Chris had a wonderful singing voice, but that was not what caught my attention. It was his passion, his strength and his humility. But, what caught my attention even more than his singing, was his obvious love for Deanna and her love for Chris. Once, I witnessed this I knew that I personally had found what I had been looking for in music and in an Artist. An Artist who is humble and strong who has a loving support system in Deanna. An Artist in my opinion who will never forget his roots and will give back to the community for which he so loves.

In my opinion, Chris has bridged the generational gap with his music. From young to old Chris is loved, respected and appreciated. It takes a special person and in this case a "Great Artist" to succeed in this task. Before our very eyes Chris is in deed doing this.

Chris, thank you for giving me my music back. And to Deanna, thank you for being who you are. You are wonderful! Always stay true to yourselves.

I know my chances are probably slim to none in winning the VIP meet and greet concert contest, but I have already won. Chris has given me my music back! For that I am most grateful!

Sincerely,

Cheryl (AKA BuckeyeBabe)