Campus groups gather for parade

In keeping with this year's Homecoming theme, "Back Where You Belong," Friday afternoon thousands of people flocked to Third Street for the 42nd annual Homecoming Parade. \nThe purpose of the parade is to bring the community and the campus together to celebrate IU, and to recognize the organizations thatare a part of the campus, said Zack Waymire, a junior and a director for the Student Alumni Association.\nThis year, 80 organizations, residence halls and greek houses participated and competed in the parade. \nAs organizations and floats made their way down Third Street, participants threw candy and gave away T-shirts to the spectators. They made a brief stop in front of the Reserve Officer Training Corps building so the judges could evaluate them.\nThree awards are given out each year. The Cream and Crimson Award goes to the organization that best incorporates the theme "Get Back to Where You Belong." This year the award went to the National Residence Hall Honorary. There is also a craftsmanship award and a marching award. The craftsmanship award also went to the National Residence Hall Honorary, and the marching award went to Kappa Alpha Psi. Judges are members of IU Alumni Association.\nWaymire said a lot of preparation goes into the parade.\n"The hardest part is getting everyone organized and trying to keep the stress level down," Waymire said.\nThe parade normally has a high level of greek participation, but this year many houses didn't sign up, Waymire said.\n"I think it (the parade) may be less attended," Waymire said. "A lot of greek houses didn't apply because of probation, but I hope they still come out to watch."\nParticipants of the parade ranged from students to local political candidates.\nDean of Students Richard McKaig also participated in the parade.\n"I think the parade is fun," McKaig said. "It gets bigger every year, and it's a great way for people to show school spirit."\nThe Homecoming court members rode in convertibles, which were loaned by community members or dealerships.\nKara Kenney, a senior and Homecoming court member, said it would be special to win the title.\n"Being homecoming queen would mean representing the spirit of IU and giving back to the University for all the opportunities they have given me over the years," Kenney said.\nThe parade ended at 7 p.m in front of Sample Gates. It was followed by a pep rally. Coach Cam Cameron talked about the football team and thanked everyone for coming out. At the end of the night the Homecoming king and queen were announced. They were seniors Tamia Collins and Philip Roessler.\nLindsay Eichelman, a sophomore and Student Athletic Board chairwoman, said this year's court was exceptional.\n"There was a lot of anticipation leading to the announcement -- no one really knew who would win," Eichelman said. "We had a real great court this year"