EDMOND — Crowds of students, alumni, parents and Edmond natives were out despite the nippy temperatures as the University of Central Oklahoma had its annual Homecoming Parade at 10 a.m. Saturday.
The theme of the parade was “All you Need is Central,” a play on the Beatles rock classic “All you Need is Love.” The route ran from campus west on East First Street to Broadway, before heading north and turning back east to return to campus on East Campbell Street.
“It’s kind of a 1960s retro look,” said UCO President Don Betz. “It’s going to be interpreted by everyone each in their own way, and it’s a big love fest for the university.”
The parade, held before the Bronchos homecoming game against the Southwest Baptist University Bearcats, was the culmination of a week-long homecoming celebration by the university. The celebration included a performance by comedian Demitri Martin on Oct. 27, a Zombie Walk Oct. 31, and a Cheer and Dance competition Nov. 2.
In addition to the UCO Stampede of Sound and Ripley High School Warrior marching bands, local dignitaries included Edmond Mayor Charles Lamb, Miss Black UCO Tiffany Thompson, and Miss Asian UCO Oasis Poudyal. Other UCO departments and organizations in the parade included the Forensic Science department, the Kinesiology department, UCO Greek Life, the UCO International Student Office, the Student Alliance for Equality and members of UCO’s athletics teams.
Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook was named the grand marshal of the parade, however was not in attendance due to an unscheduled Thunder team practice.
AK-47-wielding thug may be the most bumbling crook ever
Oklahoma Survivors, Heroes Survey Damage
Trout's cycle a boost for Angels
Raw: New Video of Deadly Oklahoma Tornado
Kim Kardashian Flaunts Pregnant Bikini Body in Greece
NBA star pledges $1M to help tornado recovery
Shakira's Shocking Talent
Morgan Freeman falls asleep on air
GRAPHIC: Blood-Soaked Machete Killer Caught on Tape
Elin Nordegren Furious With Lindsey Vonn For Parading Kids in Public
Camera Captures Climber As He Loses Grip And Falls
Helen Mirren Meets with Dying Boy in Queen Elizabeth's Place
Crowd Chants '¡Si, Se Puede!' After Passage of Immigration Bill
DWTS Crowns a Winner
Police Ram House to End Hostage Standoff
Demi Moore a Rocks Bikini at Harry Morton's Family House
Anthony Weiner: I'm running for New York City mayor
Kate Middleton's Dress Flies Up
VIRAL: Baby makes epic soccer goal
The Hangover Baby All Grown Up
