Early Date Thrusts Homecoming on Students

UC Berkeley students and alumni are teaming up to paint "Portraits of California" this week, celebrating the spirit and tradition of the university for the annual Homecoming Week festivities.

The California Alumni Association, UC Rally Committee and the Student Homecoming Team, among others, are spearheading the week-long effort leading up to Saturday's homecoming game against the University of Arizona.

Centered around this year's theme, "Portraits of California," the week's festivities include a beard-growing competition and a "Growl on Sproul" event where students will be welcomed to display their best bear-like growl on top of the steps outside Sproul Hall.

"We're realistic. We're only in our third year. Building visibility on campus is an underlying focus for us," said senior Emily Scheele, chair of the Homecoming team, a subset of the alumni association. "Our main focus is increasing alumni-student interaction."

To bring in all corners of the student body, event organizers will be putting on a wide range of events, including a photography competition Friday.

"It's all inclusive," Scheele said.

Scheele said that one of their most popular events year after year is the Battle of the Brains, a Jeopardy-style trivia match between five faculty members, five alumni and five students.

The week will be topped off by a Parents' Weekend and alumni events, including a series of class reunions, during which a number of open houses and campus tours will be held.

Pushed up by nearly a month, Scheele said the shorter window of time cut back on marketing for the event.

"It's been a challenge. It started a month earlier than last year," Scheele said.

But with the week coinciding with annual Greek Week festivities, a slew of events aimed at promoting unity within the Greek community, Scheele said she expects a moderately high turnout.

For some students, like junior James Nam, staying ahead in school will take priority over homecoming events.

"I have a midterm, so I probably won't be going," he said.

Flyering drives on Sproul Plaza aside, others said they still find themselves in the dark on the week's festivities.

"It's really vague," said freshman Crystal Juarez, who is planning on attending Saturday's football game. "I know there are events but I don't really know what they are."

TUESDAY: Growl on Sproul, 12 p.m., Sproul Plaza Give your best bear growl into the microphone for prizes.

WEDNESDAY: California Cabaret, 7 p.m., Berkeley Art Museum Spoken word poetry, bands and dance groups perform.

THURSDAY: Battle of the Brains, 7 p.m., West Pauley Ballroom Faculty, students and alumni in a Jeopardy-style contest.

FRIDAY: Fentons Creamery Giveaway, 11 a.m., South Hall Enjoy free ice cream while mingling with alumni.

Source: California Alumni Association

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