If you’re familiar with previous homecoming festivities, this year is sure to catch you off guard!

In past years, pepination has been hosted at Haller Middle School, and followed  by a parade downtown. Due to the fact that the old high school (when active) hosted pepination, it made sense for everyone to be downtown after. But with the new location, it’s hard to get the student body to show up to pepination at Haller, then go to the parade because it was hosted in a small venue and took place after school.

This year, pepination will take place at the assembly on Friday, October 2nd. Royalty and fireworks will follow half-time festivities at the football game later that night.

Leadership advisor and English teacher, Ben Ballew, had a lot to say on the topic; describing that this year will be different from past years and that new traditions will be created.

“This year’s pepination location allows the whole school to be involved rather than the select few that could fit or be willing to go at Haller Middle School,” said Ballew.

Ballew explained that, “The tailgate is an old idea that comes from the 50’s,” which leadership believed would make a fun, new tradition.

The parade will be taking place on Wednesday, September 30th at 6:00 pm. It will be followed by a tailgate where you are encouraged to B.Y.O.B. (Bring Your Own Banana) to the banana split bar that will include everything you need, along with hot cocoa. Lawn games will also be a part of the post parade festivities!

 “This year has lawn games such as croquet, badminton, horseshoes, and more,”  said leadership student Rachel Bryant (’16). “There’s going to be a really cool free sundae bar and hot cocoa available, too! There will even be popcorn! It’s very different from last year and it’s a great way to get to know your class and school better while getting excited and engaged with school traditions.”

This year will be an adjustment to change for all of us. New traditions aren’t always easy to make and maintain. Change isn’t simple; but it is bound to bring our school a new level of pep, bonding, and excitement.