Thursday, October 9, 2008

Homecoming

I am going to the University of Illinois Homecoming this weekend. This will be the first game I will go to in which the CHIEF is not going to be participating in the halftime festivities. It is said that these traditions were degrading disrespectful to the Native Americans. I was always amazed, however, at the reverence and respect the drunkest of fans would give to the CHIEF. When the CHIEF would run out in between the Marching Illini, the stadium would become sober, almost somber. I never encountered a student, fan, alumni or even opposition act in a disrespectful manner. As the chief would dance and the body of fans singe the Alma Matter chills would go through my body. Anyway, thanks to YouTube, we will still be able to show our children the honor bestowed on our CHIEF.

2 comments:

Missy!! said...

Leah - I am a grade school / high school friend of Rajean's, and I just wanted to thank you for sharing the video of the Chief. I married a year ago and moved to Royal, Illinois (rural Champaign county) and I never got the opportunity to see the Chief in person, but after watching the video, I feel like I better understand why the locals are so bummed at losing him. Thank you again!

Leah Beyer said...

Missy-
I am glad you enjoyed it. So you moved to Royal. I have some friends that live by Royal. Jeremy and Jen Seggebruch and Garrett and Nicole Bruns. I am sure that you have at least heard their names if you haven't met them. Enjoy Central Illinois!