Newsroom

CORVALLIS, Ore. - Homecoming takes place at Oregon State University next week, and the OSU Alumni Association is seeking decorated floats, marching bands, student and community groups, dance teams, groups, and novelty acts - as well as enthusiastic spectators - for the Oct. 29 night parade.

The parade begins at 6:30 p.m. at Southwest 30th Street and Jefferson Way, with Grand Marshal Mike Parker, radio voice of the OSU Beavers. Participants will traverse the campus to 14th Street and Washington Avenue, where a pep rally and bonfire will begin. Spectators are encouraged to bring canned food to donate toward the Spirit Week food drive.

Community spectators are encouraged to park free at the OSU parking structure at the corner of 26th Street and Washington Way, and to view the parade on those streets as well.

The theme of Homecoming 2010 is "Old School Benny, New School Pride," and events run Oct. 25-30.  Featured are Spirit Week, the bonfire, a tug-o-war contest, a traditional chant contest, and, of course, Saturday's football game between the Beavers and the California Golden Bears.

New to the slate of activities is a panel discussion titled "OSU Traditions: Past, Present, and Future," featuring former Oregon Stater editor George Edmonston, OSU archivist Karl McCreary, OSU social media specialist Kegan Sims, and OSU student Tonga Hopoi. Hosted by the Student Alumni Association, the panel is set for Wednesday., Oct. 27, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Memorial Union lounge, with a free reception following.

"This is the first year we'll have a night parade that leads directly to the bonfire and pep rally," said Mealoha McFadden, the alumni association's membership director. "Not only are students participating but we anticipate a large number of community families who will line the streets to watch the lighted entries and to support the Beavers at the bonfire and pep rally."

Details, entry forms and a full Homecoming schedule are available at www.osualum.com, by mail or fax from the alumni association, (541) 737-2351, or for pickup at the CH2M-Hill Alumni Center, located across from Reser Stadium on 26th Street.

A video is available at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ps5pRTlbOQw