Circle City events prove to be classic

 INDIANAPOLIS – Bayou Classic,  Gulf Coast Classic, Circle City Classic… Football “classics” are a staple of Historically Black Colleges and Universities nationwide. The recipe for this type of concoction  is very comprehensible.  First, take two leading football teams with a loyal, fun loving following.  Next, put them all in a city full of flair and coordinate entertaining activities before, during and after the game.  Put the lid on and shake them all up; shake it, don’t stir.   Add ice and enjoy.
This year’s Circle City Classic proved to exemplify these standards. The 19th annual event was held in Indianapolis.  The fall weather with just a touch of rain made for an enjoyable event for all.
Beginning in 1983 and modeled after Louisiana’s own Bayou Classic, the Circle City Classic sponsored by Coca- Cola is known nationwide as a family outing, school reunion and just good times. “I’m seeing a lot of my old classmates,” said Shannon King, a Southern alum living in Indiana and former DIGEST editor in chief from 1995-96.  “I’m having a great time with my Southern friends…especially the ones from Louisiana.” 
Days prior to the game, many events were held in the city of the Indianapolis Colts and the Indiana Pacers.  Among them were golf tournaments and networking seminars. 
The Tom Joyner Morning Show was broadcasted live on Friday morning.  Also, on this day, fans were invited to a pep rally sponsored by Black Voices Magazine in the RCA Dome.  Southern fans and groups were sparse in attendance due to cancelled flights and the threat of the storm known as Lili. Despite all this, the Jaguar Nation was still in full effect.
“I’m just sad that Southern (Band) isn’t here,” said Betty Henry of Terre Haute, Ind. The SU band was delayed and did not arrive in Indianapolis until Saturday morning, just hours before the kickoff of the game.
Self-professed “die hard” Southern fans John Ward of Houston and William Porter of Birmingham, Ala. were also in attendance.  The two were roommates at Southern and graduated in 1979.  “We want everyone to come out and support the Jags,” said Porter.
Then there were fans who were unbiased, if there is such a thing at a “classic.”
“I just want to have a good game,” said Tony Lamont, a radio personality from WTLC 106.7 FM of Indianapolis.
After a night of concerts and gearing up for the game, Saturday was staring attendees in the face.  It was game day.  Hours before the game, fans set up along   Pennsylvania and New York Streets for a good view of the annual pre game parade.  The Grand Marshal for this event was Johnnie Cochran, who also made appearances throughout the city to promote his new book.        
Blue and gold and white and maroon were the colors of the RCA dome later Saturday. Prior to kickoff, fans were treated to performances by the award winning Northern High School of Flint, Mich..  Also, songstress Kelly Price graced the audience with her powerful performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the Black National Anthem.  Other celebrities in attendance were R&B crooner Dave Hollister and old school rapper, Whodini, who performed before the half-time show.
After the game, fans were entertained by Southern University’s own Human Jukebox and Alabama A&M’s band during a “battle of the bands.”  Southern displayed their usual unmatched style and class, doing renditions of such favorites as Lenny Williams’ “Because I Love You.”
It was hard not to notice the vast array of after-parties around the city. One of the highlights was Magic Johnson’s “Circle City Soiree.” 
When it was all said and done, Indianapolis proved to be a great place for Southernites from everywhere.
“I think the Classic turned out to be a very nice event,” said Miss Southern, Erica Walton.  “It was very organized and Indianapolis proved to be very hospitable.”
Fans can gear up for yet another classic.  Bayou Classic is scheduled for November 29-30 in New Orleans.