UT Homecoming and Chuck Ealey

The University of Toledo's Homecoming this year will probably go down as one of the warmest ever. It was a beautiful day, if hot, and the crowds were terrific.

As a proud graduate from UT's College of Arts & Sciences, Department of Communication, I was particularly looking forward to seeing their new studio in Rocket Hall. And I was not disappointed. During the Communication event, Department Chairman, Dr. Benjamin and new Dean of A&S, Dr. Lee gave brief remarks and then introduced guest speaker Michael Miller, editor-in-chief of the Toledo Free Press and fellow graduate (pictured left to right, standing in front of one studio set). It was nice to see several of my favorite professors and talk with both alum and students.

Then it was off to the parade...

Not being a 'dignitary' anymore, I was originally a bit sad about not being in the parade - until the Alumni Office sent out a request for convertibles and drivers. So I volunteered our 1970 Ford Galaxie XL - a 'survivor' with everything original - and bigger than Chevy Suburban.

Imagine my surprise and excitement to discover my 'dignitary' was Chuck Ealey and his wife, Sherri! Chuck, class of '71, was this year's Blue "T" Award winner. But he's better known for still holding the record for longest undefeated record as a college quarterback, going 35-0 from 1969-71 when he was at UT. He also won three consecutive Orange Bowls those years, with his 35th victory a defeat of Lou Holtz's William & Mary team by a score of 40-12. He was a 3-time MAC player of the year and was inducted into the MAC Hall of Fame.

However deserving, because of a quirk in the rules, he is not currently in the College Football Hall of Fame. But many fans, friends and alumni are working to change that. Please visit www.inductchuck.com and sign the petition to help him get this well-earned honor.

And then it was on to the game...

Which we won!!! It was a good game with suspense (not so good) to the end, made better, obviously, by the 35-34 final score. Congrats to Jalen Parmele for his 169 yards in 30 carries and his four touchdowns - three runs and pass!

All in all, a good day at The University of Toledo 2007 Homecoming.