By Zachary Gibson
A blast of fire signified the start of an action-packed week of Homecoming celebrations and events.
Homecoming''s theme, 'Firm in the Fire,' showcased various BYU musical and dance groups to instill in students a reminder to be firm in the fire of life.
The Cougar Marching Band, referred to as the power of the Wasatch, blasted a loud welcome to those filling the Marriott Center.
BYU Alumni Board President Carr Krueger hosted the event with BYUSA President France Nielson.
In an imitation of Donald Trump''s television show 'The Apprentice,' Krueger played the part of 'Donald Thrump' as he negotiated Homecoming ideas from his two teams: BYUSA and the BYU Alumni Association.
'You''re talking a lot about fire ... how about we light the Testing Center on fire?' Kim Gardner of the alumni association yelled.
Krueger comically contributed to the skit, which finally introduced the homecoming theme as 'Firm in the Fire.'
President and Sister Samuelson spoke about making the most of a BYU experience. President Samuelson told students when he thinks about the theme, he is reminded of the scriptural admonition to endure to the end.
Sister Samuelson gave advice on having a good time this year as she reflected on her BYU graduation. Even though Sister Samuelson quietly mentioned that this year is a big year for her to be celebrating her graduation, President Samuelson had no reservations announcing that she graduated in 1964 - making it 40 years of memories.
Melissa Draper, the winner of the George H. Brimhall Memorial Essay Contest, presented her winning essay entitled 'Will it be on a Test?'
'Being firm in the fire won''t be on the test - it is the test,' Draper said reading from her essay about life''s challenges and possibilities.
A video depicted the life and accomplishments of this years'' homecoming honoree Edwin Smith Hinckley. The Hinckley Scholarship, available to eligible BYU students, bears his name. He also assisted in the original construction of the cement 'Y,' which is the world''s largest university symbol.
About 30 Hinckley descendants and family members attended the opening ceremonies.
Lynda Homer, the youngest granddaughter of Hinckley from Pocatello, said the video about her grandfather was marvelous. Many family members had never seen some of the pictures used in the video.
In special attendance were five of the 20 coaches and athletes who represented BYU alumni in the Athens Olympic Games. Ten of them will also participate as grand marshals to the homecoming events.
Tuesday''s assembly was only a preview of the Homecoming Spectacular being held in the Marriott Center this weekend. For a full schedule of this weeks celebrations, visit alumni.byu.edu for details.