Homecoming brings lights of Las Vegas to Westwood
By Calanit Greenberg
Oct. 26, 2003 9:00 p.m.
Elvis impersonators, playing cards and dice filled the
blue-and-gold clad streets as the 2003 UCLA Homecoming Parade made
its way through Westwood on Friday night, followed by a spirited
rally.
“Luck be a Bruin Tonight” was the theme of the 70th
annual homecoming event. About 3,500 spectators, including
students, faculty and alumni, were in attendance, according to
rally director and fourth-year student Mark Deppe. The sidewalks of
Le Conte Avenue were packed six people deep.
The parade transformed the streets of Westwood into Las Vegas.
Bruin pride was evident as standing crowds cheered and clapped
alongside those seated in the stands set up along the street.
Supporters of all ages enjoyed the music and fun, and Chancellor
Albert Carnesale was spotted in the stands with his wife.
The UCLA marching band led the parade that began at the
intersection of Gayley Avenue and Weyburn Avenue, playing
“Sounds of Westwood” and “Strike up the
Band.”
Following the band were eight floats built by fraternities,
sororities and other campus groups, all with themes pertaining to
Las Vegas. Spectators could see dozens of Elvises, wedding chapels
and gamblers.
Campus groups, such as the Dance Marathon, and community groups,
including the Girl Scouts and the Brentwood Dance Company, were
also a part of the parade.
Actor and UCLA Alumnus JD Walsh, who had a part in the movie
“2 Fast 2 Furious,” was the emcee for the parade and
rally. Other celebrity guests present included Nick Spano, from the
Disney Channel’s series “Even Stevens,” and
Kimberly Locke from “American Idol 2.”
First-year undeclared student Lindsey Sanders said the parade
surpassed her expectations, calling it a “fun
tradition.”
“It was a great atmosphere, and it really pumped everyone
up for the game. I was definitely impressed. I can’t wait for
next year,” Sanders said.
A spirit rally followed the parade, consisting of several
performances and the presentation of seven awards. The UCLA Spirit
Squad performed with the alumni marching band to boost spirit.
Those present enjoyed musical performances by two student a
capella groups, Awaken A Capella and Random Voices, and the band
Almost Gone. Locke, who placed third in “American Idol
2,” debuted her new single entitled “8th World
Wonder.”
Executive Director of the Homecoming Committee, fourth-year
student Jillean Dubatowka, said she was satisfied with the
audience’s enthusiasm and the parade.
“The parade definitely lived up to my expectations. I hope
that next year’s homecoming will be even bigger and
better,” she said.
