Homecoming still a source of pride

We are writing in response to the letter, “The excess of Homecoming.”\nSpeaking on behalf of the Student Alumni Association, we want to thank Kristin Emery for bringing up important environmental issues. However, we would like to correct some misinformation that was put forth in the editorial. \nFirst, the Student Alumni Association proudly coordinates all of the IU-Bloomington Homecoming activities. The IUSA and student funds are not affected.\nSecondly, the T-shirts that students brought to the All Campus Celebration and cornhole tournament and bonfire were mostly donated to a local agency. In keeping up with the spirit of Homecoming, we burned only one shirt from each of our Big Ten rivals.\nLastly, the fireworks display that was set off on Friday evening served as the finale of our pep rally. The intent was to pump people up for the IU-Penn State football game the following afternoon. We are proud to host the event and of the “pep” that is created in the atmosphere.\nAccording to IU-Bloomington Provost Karen Hanson, “Homecoming is great. All of the alumni return, and we see even more school spirit than usual. It reminds me of so many great things about IU.”\nOur main mission throughout Homecoming is to encourage school pride and continue traditions that have been maintained for hundreds of years. While the SAA takes very seriously the environmental issues facing the Bloomington campus and beyond – using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible – the organization feels that the sense of community created by Homecoming is worthy of the materials that go into the event.\nKristen King\nPresident of the Student Alumni Association