Your community topic reminded me of something.
Growing up I had a Great Aunt that lived in Buckroe, a few blocks from the beach and the amusement park. We used to stay with her for a week during the summer. Unfortunately, I never got to visit the park before it closed in 85. One of the many victims of Busch Gardens and Kings Dominion opening up. (Salem had Lakeside which closed in 86)
About 10 years ago I had a buddy that was turning 50 and they had his party in the bowling alley down Buckroe area. He went to Phoebus in the late 70's early 80's. His party was the last time I visited the Buckroe area.
To your post- Salem has great community support. (Not as good as in the past, but still good) Much like Dinwiddie being the only school in the county, Salem is the only school in the city. Salem also has some supporters and detractors from Roanoke that like to cheer or jeer when Salem goes deep in the playoffs.