The steady rain that fell Tuesday afternoon and evening squelched most of the events planned to kick off Jackson Homecomers, the city's annual reunion festival, but city officials and event coordinators said they don't expect the rest of the week's schedule to be affected by the changes.

The 2009 Miss Homecomers Queen contest was moved into the First Presbyterian Church, 206 E. Washington St., and the 1-mile youth run and 5K race were still held, but the performance of the Jackson Municipal Band was canceled, said Linda Penzel, entertainment director for Homecomers.

Jackson Mayor Barbara Lohr usually gives her welcome speech during the band concert, but instead it was moved to about 6:15 p.m. today, during the Senior Idols competition, Penzel said.

"We always seem to have a little rain, but it's usually not the first night," Lohr said.

Having to move the beauty queen competition indoors was a disappointment, Lohr said.

"We wouldn't want those girls walking around out in the rain," Lohr said.

A handful of people milled around the food vendors set up at the courthouse square in Jackson early Tuesday evening despite the dreary weather, and Penzel said rides would operate if enough of a crowd showed up and there was no threat of lightening.

Lohr said her 2-year-old grandson, who is visiting from the St. Louis area, had been most looking forward to the "pink elephant ride" at Homecomers.

"I'm sad about that," Lohr said.

In 45 years of living in Jackson, Lohr said, she has always managed to attended at least part of Homecomers, and that her fondest memories are the ones she brought her children to when they were little.

bdicosmo@semissourian.com

388-3635

Pertinent addresses: 206 E. Washington St.