Homecoming 2010 served as the backdrop to many memorable Beta Omicron chapter moments during a weekend of events which reunited brothers, spouses, and guests from across the country. On Friday, October 29, early arrivals to Natchitoches enjoyed a social at Antoon’s Riverfront Restaurant along the historic bricks of Front Street. Alumni and active members traded Pi Kapp stories over a meal.

Saturday morning began bright and early with an alumni breakfast at the chapter house across from the Northwestern State University campus. As the sun was rising over Natchitoches, four members of Pi Kappa Phi were riding 25 miles, ending at the Pi Kapp clock at the NSU Alumni Plaza. The annual ride honors the memory of Sharon Sampite, daughter of Beta Omicron alumnus Joe Sampite, who lost her battle with cancer in 2009. Members of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority made a check presentation, contributing to a scholarship fund in her memory.

Afterward, the winners of the David D. Morgan “Extra Mile” Scholarship were recognized. Undergradutes Jon Lee, Jonathan Wallace, Chase Harvey, Kyle Duhon, and Kevin Bruce were awarded $2,000 in scholarships. This scholarship is designed to recognize Beta Omicron chapter members who go the “extra mile” in the classroom, in service to Pi Kappa Phi, and in the Northwestern State student community.

Later that morning, dozens of alumni convened for the annual Alumni Association meeting. Officers gave brief presentations about the activities of the Alumni Chapter, as well as outlining a strategy for the coming year. Academic advisor Michael Land, PhD, and archon Jon Lee gave an update on the success of the undergraduate chapter. A new slate of officers were elected to the Board of Directors of the Beta Omicron Alumni Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation, Incorporated. David Morgan, Sr.; George Etheredge; David Morgan, Jr.; Kie Boyett, Lane Luckie, Joey Kliebert, and Joshua Alost were selected to guide alumni activities and support the chapter.

Members of the Founders Generation Group (1956-1960) held their biennial meeting at Merci Beaucoup Restaurant in downtown Natchitoches. The alumni presented the undergraduate chapter with historic memorabilia, including member badges belonging to chapter founders, as well as paddles and an early draft of the B.O. Alumni Blast newsletter. The National Fraternity recognized several members, commemorating 50 years of membership in Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. Receiving certificates were: Roland McKneely, Larry Rice, Aubrey Ryals, Charles Doty, Patrick Eddings, John Mize, Samuel Russell, Larry Shook, Bill Thompson, George Cameron, Rayford Zerinque, and Russ McInnis. NSU Greek Advisor Natalie Laurence was on hand to help recognize former “Roses” of Pi Kappa Phi:  Barbara Dean Cameron (Delta Zeta), Rose 1961-62; Clois Warner Witt (Alpha Sigma Alpha), Rose 1956-’57; Peggy Kerr Plunkett (Alpha Sigma Alpha); Rose 1956-’57; and Sylvia George Murphy (Sigma Sigma Sigma) Rose 1957-’58.

At the chapter house alumni, actives, and their families were treated to a cold-cut spread, provided by alumni Justin Owen. Associate members were able to hear about the early days of the chapter, and hear from older generations the impact Pi Kapp had on their lives.

In true Pi Kapp tradition, chapter members assembled a worthy float that took 2nd place in the annual homecoming parade, this year themed “Live from NSU: It’s Saturday Night Live”. The Pi Kappa Phi float featured memorable scenes from the NBC show.

The celebration continued in Demon Alley, where excitement for the game was stirring at the Pi Kapp tailgating tent. Alumni Cory Wilson and Josh Manotas were busy cooking up hot dogs, hamburgers, and a delectable brisket chili. More than a hundred Pi Kapps and friends enjoyed fellowship, food, and music before watching the Spirit of Northwestern’s Pre-Game performance.

An ironic purple and orange sunset over Turpin Stadium seemed to set the mood for a hard-fought victory. In one of the most memorable victories in recent memory, the NSU Demons secured first place in the Southland Conference with a double-overtime win over Sam Houston State University.