Johnson C. Smith University officials are in high gear preparing for next week's on campus Homecoming 2009 activities which move both the football game and parade to campus. This will be the first time in decades that JCSU hosts most of its events on campus and in the Beatties Ford Road community.

"It makes sense that the University does this so that we can invite the community to come celebrate many opportunities to experience our campus and to become engaged," said JCSU Public Relations Director Benny L. Smith. "This is not just a Smith event, but a Charlotte community event and we want Charlotteans and visitors to be a part of this annual school pride celebration."

Homecoming activities begin Monday, October 12 - Sunday, October 18. The major highlights are that the school parade, usually held on Trade Street, has been relocated to the Beatties Ford Road area starting at West Charlotte High School and ending at JCSU. The parade will start at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 17th.

After the parade, the University will welcome visitors to again experience a carnival-like event, called Festiville, where people can enjoy rides, cultural foods, and entertainment. Admission is free.

"Our president (Dr. Ronald L. Carter) implemented this event last year and it was a huge success. We wanted to be able to offer this again this year to become more engaging with our Northwest Corridor neighbors and the rest of the community," Smith said.

The football game against Fayetteville State University will also be held 1 p.m. Saturday, October 17th on the Eddie McGirt Football Field inside the Irwin Belk Complex. One final highlight is that national recording hip-hop artists Juelz Santana, Young Joc, and Young Dro will be performing 9 p.m. Friday, October 16th in the Jack S. Brayboy Gymnasium following JCSU's community-wide Homecoming Pep Rally at 6 p.m. also in the gym.

For a complete list of prices for parking and other Homecoming Week events visit www.jcsu.edu or call JCSU Public Relations Director Benny Smith at 704-378-1032.