By Emily Frazier

GS was buzzing with energy as Homecoming festivities took place. Sejah Franklin was crowned Homecoming Queen, SCA hosted events, prizes were won and memories were made.

“Homecoming is a time for alumni to reconnect with Greensburg Salem,” SCA Sponsor Mr. Christopher Gazze said. “For current students, it’s a way to celebrate school spirit and connect with the school community.”

Approaching the Homecoming game, SCA held a spirit week, bonfire and pep rally. The themes for spirit week were Pajama Day, Country vs. Country Club, Holiday Day, Decades Day and Whiteout Day. The winners were announced at the pep rally.

At the bonfire, there was a pie eating contest, numerous competitions and games, a blow-up obstacle course, marching band and cheer performances, varsity athlete meet and greets and a Homecoming Court announcement.

“In addition to the cheerleaders, band, and varsity athletes, we had numerous clubs sponsor tables,” Gazze said.

The scene was filled with people from all over and of all ages.

“We marketed our bouncy house for elementary students, and that’s getting them involved early on and encouraging them to come to events so they’re excited in high school to join SCA,” SCA Senior Class President Keegan Murtha said.

It was an event the entire community was able to be involved in.

That Friday, a pep rally took place during school. The marching band and cheerleaders were present to hype up the crowd.

There was also “tug of war, a free throw game, a relay race, a spirit screaming competition,” and more for the students to participate in, Murtha said.

The senior class won the competitions overall. A lion statue with a beaded blue necklace stands in honor of their win.

“I think everyone was super lively ‘cause it was leading up to our football game,” he said. “Everyone was just having fun and having a good time.”

At the game, seats were packed, and the field was lined with people as they waited to see the Homecoming Court ceremony. Dressed in their best, the Court rode to the field in their lavish cars and took their seats, anticipating the big moment. As halftime arrived, excitement filled the air. Each girl and her escort was announced on the field.

“Everybody was very supportive of each other,” senior Sejah Franklin said.

Escorted by Joey Costello, Franklin stood proud as she was crowned this year’s Homecoming Queen.

“Everybody was screaming and applauding,” she said. “It was kind of a shock.”

Coming back to school, she could feel the respect from her friends and peers and is ready to fill the role.

“It was a great feeling being recognized for everything,” she said.

According to many of her peers, Franklin is known for her spirited personality and constant kindness.

“She came in happy and with positive energy every day,” Gazze said. “She helped create the atmosphere in the class and made it one I will always remember.”

Alongside the Homecoming Court, alumni were represented at the game. Cheerleaders, marching band members, family and more returned to experience the Friday night lights once again.

“It was nice to hold all of the events for the first time in a few years,” Gazze said.