Despite cloudy skies, the mood at the MacArthur High School football field was genuinely sunny as Homecoming 2004 dawned on Saturday, Oct. 2.

Prior to the game a parade of students, teachers, parents, administrators and honored guests winded its way from the Cherrywood Shopping Center up Wantagh Avenue to the field where the festivities began. The traditional introduction of last year's Homecoming king, John Federlin and queen, Allison DeMarco was accompanied by a listing of the "Court" of nominees for the coveted spots. Applause followed Assistant Principal John Zampaglione's announcement of the winners: Bruce Popko and Michelle DeBellis.

Entertainment supplied by the MacArthur H.S. marching band, MacEttes and color guard was appreciated by the fans who also enjoyed treats supplied by Applebee's Restaurant and served by the members of MacPac.

The traditional introduction of the senior football players escorting their moms, cheerleaders escorted by dads and marching band members, also escorted by parents, brought a tear to more than one eye.

Winning banners crafted by the Senior Class, International Club and Junior Class were announced, and then all eyes were on the game as the Generals fought a tight contest, narrowly missing a 47-yard field goal that just missed its mark. Although the heartbreakingly-close final score of 7-6 brought a win for Carey, all agreed that the day's festivities were, in general, a success for MacArthur High School.