Coming back home to IU

The 44th annual homecoming parade rolled down Third street Friday, bringing with it tradition, pageantry and history. After the colors were displayed by the Army ROTC Color Guard, members of the IU Student Alumni Association, who planned the event, led the way, followed by the IU Marching Hundred.\nKin Bales, a local resident, said he has been a fan of the parade for some time.\n"It's always fun. We've been here a couple of years, and we always enjoy it," he said. "The kids have fun, and the old folks have fun too."\nThe Marching Hundred was followed by floats and displays from many different residence halls and student organizations, all following the homecoming theme -- "Show your true colors -- a cream and crimson homecoming." Greek organizations, student groups, local businesses and even political candidates participated in the parade, each with a display either celebrating IU or advertising their organization. IU officials and homecoming royalty made appearances in the parade as well, riding in open Jeeps or convertibles, waving to the crowds gathered along the route.\nIU head football coach Gerry DiNardo was Grand Marshall for the parade. DiNardo, athletics director Michael McNeely and their families waved to the crowd from a horse-drawn trolley.\nRiding in a corvette with IUSA Student Body President Bill Gray, Chancellor Sharon Brehm continued her tradition of donning an IU cheerleader's outfit for the festivities.\nAdding to the fun were groups of Shriners on miniature vehicles, ranging from mini-motorcycles, race cars, to even a mini-tow truck.\nFreshman Eboni Gatlin said her first homecoming parade was a good one.\n"I'm having a wonderful time," she said. "But I would like to see more diversity."\nKent Owen, IU alumnus from 1961, said he was pleased with this year's parade.\n"From what I've seen of it, it's up to the standards of past parades," he said. "People are on display; it's pleasant to see people from the community and IU's extended family."\nOwen also had some words about the Shriners.\n"There's always the danger of being beset by a Shriner on a mini-bike," he said with a smile.\nThe parade ended at the Sample Gates, where the stage was set for the pep rally and introductions of the Grand Marshall and IU officials by Chuck Crabb, public address announcer for IU athletics.\nIU Student Alumni Association president, senior Doug Wiley, said the parade is an important part of the homecoming tradition, and a good release from the pressures of school.\n"I'd say it was right on par with (past parades). Everybody was excited about it. It was real good, a lot of fun," he said. "I think it lets the community come out and the various student groups and see what students do when they're not studying."\nAfter leaving the stage Friday night, IU President Myles Brand said his last homecoming was bittersweet.\n"It's sad really. I really enjoy them," he said. "Especially when the football team's doing so darn well."\nBrand said he would continue to support the Hoosiers even in his new position at the NCAA.\n"I have to be absolutely neutral -- not!" he said. "Of course I'm going to root for the Hoosiers."\nAfter declaring his allegiance to Hoosier sports, Brand walked away into the shadows of Dunn's Woods as the crowd behind him cheered for the captains of the IU football team.