Laizzez Le Bon Temps Rouler for TTU Homecoming 2002

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (Sept. 20, 2002) -- Mardi Gras and traditional Tennessee Tech University Homecoming celebrations have a lot in common -- purple and gold decorations, parade floats, good food and festive atmosphere.

But with the theme "Mardi Gras," Homecoming 2002 will feature even more in common with the annual festival with street parties, jazz music, King Cake and gumbo competitions, a masquerade ball and an attitude best described as "laissez le bon temps rouler" or "let the good times roll."

"The good times aren't just reserved for Tennessee Tech students and alumni," said TTU Alumni Relations Director Tracey Duncan. "Community members and their families are welcome to join the activities."

The Homecoming Parade at 10:30 a.m. will lead the crowd to TTU's Sherlock Park where the community is invited to the "Bourbon Street Mardi Gras Festival" from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5. The Richard Johnston Blues Band from Memphis will entertain, and a Cajun lunch (with hot dogs for the kids) will be served.

Lunch and a football ticket is $10 for adults, $5 for children under 12. (If you have football tickets, lunch is $6 for adults and $3 for children.) No reservations are required. During lunch, the Sherlock Park will be filled with activities.

TTU's Photo Services will take visitors' photos with Awesome Eagle and provide photo key chains. ROTC members will help volunteers up the rock climbing wall or provide rides in an aviation simulator van. The College of Engineering will showcase vehicles, including the student constructed Mini-Baja vehicle and Formula One car. Tents will be set up to host participating organizations and alumni. Kickoff for the game against Eastern Illinois is at 2:30 p.m.

The Letter Winners and Sports Hall of Fame Breakfast, open to all TTU faculty, staff, fans, alumni and former coaches, jump starts Homecoming day at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday in the Roaden University Center Multipurpose Room. The cost is $10 and the required reservations can be made by calling 931-372-3940.

Several events are scheduled for Friday, Oct. 4, including the Alumni Awards Reception and Ceremony at 4 p.m. in the Roaden University Center Multipurpose Room and a pep rally on the Main Quad, also at 4 p.m.

For a complete list of Homecoming 2002 events and activities, visit the TTU web site at www.tntech.edu or call Alumni Relations at 372-3205.

--Karen Lykins

This information posted 20 September 2002