Perfect night for a parade, pep rally

Hundreds of Newton citizens of all ages gathered around the square wearing their red and black for the annual homecoming parade and pep rally Thursday night.

The end-of-the-week festivities started Thursday morning with the coronation assembly held in the Newton High School gymnasium where the entire student body, along with staff and parents, attended to find out this year’s king and queen winners.

All 20 nominated individuals were present and dressed in their formal attire. Chris Thorpe and McKenna Heisdorffer were named king and queen.

“Thanks to everyone who voted for me. It was a surprise, it was a good surprise,” Heisdorffer said.

Thorpe was also overwhelmed with joy and gratitude in the moment.

“It was an honor to be chosen by our classmates, and again, thanks to everybody,” he said.

On Thursday night, parade grand marshal Avery Wilson, Newton High School Marching Band, FFA members, all varsity and junior varsity fall athletic teams, various other clubs and the homecoming court participated in the homecoming parade which started at the high school and traditionally made its way around the downtown square for a closing pep rally.

The Newton Booster Club sold walking tacos, which sold out, and new merchandise on the southwest corner of the square.

“Selling merchandise is entertaining to me,” said Booster Club merchandise co-chair Scott Pritchard who co-chairs with Monica. “I love talking to all the people and raising money for Newton Senior athletes.”

After the parade, varsity football players, cheerleaders, Pacesetters and the marching band along with a packed courthouse lawn gathered for a pep rally led by Thorpe, Heisdorffer and varsity football coach Ed Ergenbright.