"The Colts actually started integration in Westminster," she said. "Here were these black players, sweating and doing glory for the state, but with no place to even get a beer."
Several professors and the chaplain at Western Maryland College realized "how wrong it was to exploit these guys, and they put pressure on the town to change it," Finch said.
The Ravens aren't likely to leave Westminster soon, though the team's contract with McDaniel expires in 2010.
"We'll sit down at the right time and talk about extending it," Cass said.
Meanwhile, Ravens sightings go on - especially at the Burger King adjacent to the team's motel, where players often go for late-night munchies.
"One of our employees got 17 autographs last year," said Crystal Weinhold, a manager there.
Last year, she said, Haloti Ngata, the 345-pound defensive tackle, pulled up to the drive-thru and ordered some Double Whoppers.
He paid for the food. Weinhold gave him his change. Then Ngata, ever the gentleman, left with a chivalrous adieu.
"He kissed my hand," she said.
Camp-bound?
Fans can get their first glimpse at practice on Tuesday at McDaniel College (8:45 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.)
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