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Grant Yanney
Daily Egyptian

Chicken wire, crumpled tissue paper, spray paint and long hours were all that was needed for the Sigma Kappa Homecoming float, along with a little handiwork from the fraternity Alpha Tau Omega.

More than 50 organizations will pour into downtown Carbondale on Saturday morning to participate in this year's Homecoming Parade.

Sigma Kappa member Becky Cruz, a freshman studying psychology from Streamwood, said even though the preparation was hard work, it was well worth it.

"It's overwhelming," Cruz said. " It's really time consuming, but in the end, it's something to look up to."

This year's Homecoming theme is "Southern Goes Hollywood," which Student Programming Council's Director of Homecoming Dustin Davis said is fitting in many ways. One reason is that the person leading SIUC's 2005 Homecoming Parade is no stranger to Hollywood.

The parade grand marshal is SIUC alumna Liz Ralston, who won an academy award for best visual effects for the 1995 movie Babe.

Davis said the Homecoming Parade is a good way to show school spirit.

"It's a chance for them to show their pride in the University," Davis said. "A chance for people to get involved and show their Saluki spirit."

Marinus Von Kuilenburg, who will march with the Evergreen Terrace Tenant Union in the parade, said even though the weekend focuses on the football game, the festivities aren't just about sports.

Besides Saturday's Homecoming game and parade, there are many events taking place throughout the weekend for both students and community members.

The Saluki Block Party, which takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday at Sam Rinnela Fields, is a new event that will serve as replacement for the traditional pep rally.

Other homecoming events include fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha's annual Homecoming Step-show and their 34th annual Miss Eboness pageant.

Davis said Homecoming weekend is a staple for the University.

"Homecoming is a tradition, the longest tradition that this University has," Davis said. "It is easy for new students to make Homecoming a part of their own tradition."