Douglas gets in the spirit for homecoming

Jamaican Day, Hippie Day, Cowboy Day... Douglas High students are sporting all sorts of crazy costumes this week as part of their celebratory build-up to Friday's homecoming football game.

"I'm excited about the whole thing, anything that continues the tradition," said Douglas teacher Karen Lamb, whose leadership students organized the events. "We are blessed to have these kids because they want to do it, and they do it themselves."

Lamb said some of the traditional events, such as the bonfire, have been changed because of Douglas High's new and all-weather track.

"We've had to get more creative," she said. "Instead of a bonfire, we'll have fire pits outside the football field for the tailgate party."

The public is invited to the tailgate party, which is 5:30 p.m. Thursday, before the junior varsity game. The All-Sports Booster Club and leadership students will be selling hamburgers, hot-dogs, water and smores kits.

Douglas senior Ally Freitas said homecoming is about school spirit.

"It's the time everyone gets pumped up," she said.

However, Freitas was nominated for Homecoming Queen and said she doesn't like being in the spotlight.

"It's a little too much for me, but I'm trying to handle it," she said.

Five boys and five girls were nominated for the royal coronation ceremony, which will take place during half-time of the varsity game on Friday.

Nominee Taryn Williams was more comfortable with being nominated.

"I'm very excited," she said. "This is my favorite week. I don't have to pick out outfits because we get to dress up all crazy."

Bradley Boyd was surprised he was nominated for King.

"I thought all the football players would get nominated," said the cross-country runner, "but I guess they can't because they're going to be playing."

Boyd was looking forward to the dance, although his girlfriend lives in California.

Fellow King-nominee Nick Hales said he would be "flying solo" at the dance.

"It feels good to be liked," he said, "but I'm trying to keep it low key."

The Douglas High School band will also be performing during the half-time ceremony. Madrigal alumni interested in singing the national anthem for the homecoming game should meet in the band room at 6:15 p.m. or call music director Bill Zabelsky at 782-5136 ext. 1102 for more information.

The varsity game against Galena starts at 7 p.m.