'Rock the Red' begins Ball State Homecoming preparation with a bang

The Homecoming informational meeting this year began with a room full of people singing the fight song and ended with student groups going home with a thick packet full of entry forms for the many events offered this year.

Each of the 12 Homecoming Steering chairmen explained what events are available this year to the three divisions of student groups: greek life, residence halls and independent groups.

Meaghan Sigman, publicity chairwoman, said the large turnout was a surprise.

"Almost all of the tables were full and people were sitting all around the walls," she said. "We really tried to get the word out through posters, Facebook and Twitter. I was really pleased."

Students have many events to choose from, including residence hall decorating, the Talent Search, Air Jam, a royalty fashion show, flag football, bed races and the parade.

"Pimp My Grill" is a new contest held for groups to create and decorate the best looking tailgate setup. The divisions for the competition are greek, independent, residence hall, faculty and staff, and alumni. While alcohol is strictly prohibited, groups are encouraged to bring out their grills and cookout for all to enjoy.

Bryan John, tailgate contest and special events chairman, said a $150 limit for decorations is in place for Pimp My Grill.

"If you have a lot of money, don't flaunt it," he said. "We don't want to see it. We are all out there to have fun."

Student groups are encouraged to participate as much as possible with Ashley points. For attending and participating in many of the events, student groups win points that work toward a final award. Student groups winning in the categories of greek, residence hall and independent will be recognized with an award at the Homecoming game.

For a few of the events, scholarships will be available as well. For the Talent Search, winners of each of the eight categories will win a $500 scholarship. The overall winner will take home an additional $500. At the flag football game, a field goal kick will win one participant a $250 scholarship. All scholarships are courtesy of the Alumni Association.

A flat fee is available for groups participating in many activities. The flat fee includes all events except for flag football and Air Jam. By paying the $200 flat fee, groups will save $35 rather than paying for each event fee seperately.

To turn in entry forms, a registration table will be set up in the Art and Journalism Building on Sept. 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Forms can also be turned in at the Homecoming Office in the Alumni Center.

Homecoming provides several events this year, new and old. To check out events you may be interested in, visit www.bsu.edu/alumni/homecoming for a complete listing of Homecoming events.