The 2007 Homecoming festivities officially kicked off on Monday morning at Borchuck Plaza in front of the Sherrod Library. Hundreds of students, faculty and alumni gathered to take part in the start of festivities for the week. The theme for this year’s homecoming was “Rewind, Remix, Relive.”
Music sounded as people streamed into Borchuck Plaza awaiting the announcements, the reading of the proclamation and the crowning of the year’s Homecoming King and Queen.
They did not have to wait long. Shortly after 11 a.m. a parade of students from various organizations on campus, including band members and cheerleaders, marched in chanting and proudly displaying banners they had created for the event.
Representatives from the university and city gave speeches and showed their support of ETSU and this yearly event. Renee Lockhart of the Alumni Association said, “I hope your experiences at ETSU are some of the best times of your lives.”
One of those in attendance who welcomed the crowd was Christine McPherson, chair of the SGA Homecoming Committee.
“I hope you’re all really excited,” she said as she began her speech.
ETSU’s SGA has been preparing for the fall 2007 Homecoming since spring semester. In preparation for Monday morning’s celebration, she said that the committee had continued working until after three that morning. After expressing her thanks for all those who made it out for the kick-off ceremony and those who had a hand in putting together the event, she also recognized the event chairs in the Homecoming Committee.
Before the announcement of king and queen, several other awards were given out.
Banner chair Rachel Thompson gave out the first two awards. The plaque for the winner of the banner contest went to the combined efforts of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and Sigma Kappa.
Another award given for the making of the banners was the Spirit Award. The Spirit Award was given to the group who had the most individuals work on a team banner. This year’s winners were Sigma Phi Epsilon Epsilon and Kappa Delta.
Before beginning the awards in the Homecoming court, each of this year’s candidates and their organization affiliations were announced and given recognition.
Next was the award for the best essay written by the candidate who best summarized why he or she felt they deserved and would be a good choice for king and queen.
The male recipient was Travis Lockner, representing the SGA, and the female recipient was Sabrina Satterfield of Alpha Delta Pi.
The last to be recognized at the opening celebration were the Homecoming court winners.
The title of Homecoming Prince went to Jamie Reagan of Pi Kappa Alpha. The honor of Homecoming Princess was awarded to Sigma Kappa’s Hannah Abel.
When it was finally time to announce the king and queen the students became even more spirited once again chanting their favorites in support and in hopes that they win. Todd Maynard of Sigma Alpha Epsilon was announced to be this year’s Homecoming King, and Kappa Delta’s Hayley Keller was crowned ETSU’s 2007 Homecoming Queen.
SGA President Josh Shearin then closed the ceremony with announcements and thanks to everyone who helped and everyone who showed support.
Activities are taking place throughout the week. They are posted on the ETSU website at www.etsu.edu. Other awards and recognitions involving activities this week will be announced on Friday at 8 p.m. in the Culp Center Ballroom.

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