Homecoming week began with the ever-popular Grocery Bingo. This Student Activities Council (SAC) - sponsored activity was held in the student center and like every other year, the tables were full of players, as well as the floor. Students grabbed every available space in an attempt to win one of the many prizes that were offered.

Sophomore Tyler Zillmer said the night was, “lighthearted enough for me to have fun and enjoy myself, yet competitive enough to have me determined to leave next year a victor.”

Another homecoming week tradition is the powder puff football game on Tuesday. This year, instead of being played on Maranatha Lawn, it was held on Reynolds Field. One team represented each class on the field. At the end of the tournament, the victory was awarded to the junior class team.

Leeland’s new tour, which stopped by Northwestern on Friday, has a unique twist to it. It is centered on not only the performances and community worship, but also on community action in the form of an organization called Food for the Hungry.

According to Brandon Heath, the tour was inspired by a trip to Cambodia through Food for the Hungry. Lead singer Leeland Mooring and keyboardist Jack Mooring of Leeland, as well as Heath, talked about their experience with this organization as well as their first hand knowledge of the kids who benefit from the very real work that Food for the Hungry accomplishes. Without trying to guilt the audience into participating in the sponsorship of a child, the artists expressed a deep passion for the kids of Cambodia and other struggling countries.

NWC alumnus Bill Abler and his daughter Marie, a current Northwestern student, felt that this mission is characteristic of the bands and their message. It strengthens the respect that is given to the performers, and people can see them as real role models.

Finally, on Saturday of homecoming week, a Showcase Homecoming Concert was held in Ericksen Athletic Center. Those attending sat at tables in dim lighting and were treated to desserts while they listened to the music. Many alumni were in the crowd of people who enjoyed the tranquil atmosphere created for the showcase. The Northwestern orchestra, varsity men’s choir, women’s chorale, concert choir, jazz band and symphonic band were all features at this event.

Natalie Cromwell was a featured soloist. She sang with the jazz band on the song “Summertime.” The final piece of the concert was a combined piece made up of the choirs, orchestra and symphonic band playing “America the Beautiful.”

Robert Ray, who is a baritone in the college choir, said, “The showcase is always a thoroughly enjoyable event. It’s a unique opportunity to be able to work with the band, orchestra and choirs.”