Homecoming coming

It's homecoming week at Santa Monica College and you may or may not have noticed. In fact, interest around campus has been comparable to that of college-aged voter turnout; indifferent. "I've never really been into it," said Samira Fathi, a second year student at SMC. "Is it a football game or a dance too?" Still, the Associated Students along with the Alumni Association, kinesiology department, and the SMC Foundation have made concentrated efforts, including the formation of a homecoming committee, in order to make this year's homecoming a well-organized event.

A poster contest, pirate themed hair and makeup styling by SMC's cosmetology department, and a campus singing competition started the week off with the winner of Tuesday's "Homecoming Idol" singing the national anthem at Saturday night's game. Thursday will feature a powder puff football match at the quad between student clubs and faculty and anyone wearing SMC related clothing will receive free ice-cream.

The first 300 in attendance at Saturday's game will receive a re-usable gift bag containing a free t-shirt and coupons for a free sandwich from the Grilled Cheese truck. Students dressed as pirates will have the chance to win an iPad amongst other giveaways which include iPod shuffles and a laptop computer.

This year's homecoming motif has particular relevance because it will feature, for the first time, a kickoff featuring SMC's Alumni Association which was established just this year. Notable alumni attending this weekend's game will include members of SMC's 1958 Junior Rose Bowl champions.

Asked what it would mean to the athletes to have a good showing on Saturday Anna Collier, P.E. Department Chair, was hopeful.

"I think it will raise their energy levels," said Collier. "It might take us back over the top and help us win the match."

But with an allotted homecoming budget of $7,000 and a lackluster turnout in the previous year, students like Jesse Saldena are left wondering if that money could have been better spent on things.

However, many students support the idea of school spirit even as they acknowledge a lack of interest in the activities. When asked if he would show up to the game, Jonathan Morabi's response was tepid. "Maybe, I'll think about it," said Morabi.

Besides the football team, all other SMC teams will be honored during halftime. Saturday night's game will start at 6 p.m. at Corsair Field; attendance is free.