Ohio University will celebrate the city of Athens' bicentennial and the strong city-campus bond developed over the years during Homecoming weekend Oct. 17-19. The theme of the weekend's events is "Athens -- 200 Years, A Look Back."
Homecoming activities will begin with the traditional bonfire at 7:30 p.m. Friday near Peden Stadium and, later that night, the Alumni Association will recognize its top alumni of the year at the annual awards banquet at Old Nelson Commons.
On Saturday morning, follow the crowd to the Homecoming Parade, which begins at 10 a.m. at the corner of Morris Avenue and East State Street, swings through campus and concludes with the Big Top Extravaganza at the Riverfront during the Pepsi Tailgrate. Last year, hundreds of alumni, families and students enjoyed a variety of activities under the "The Big Top."
The Big Top Extravaganza runs from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. "Rings" of interest will include the Marching 110, the Alumni Band and Bobcat cheerleaders. Several academic colleges will offer display tables and tents with up-to-date information for alumni and an opportunity to chat with students, faculty and staff.
The Bobcat football team, in its third season under 1996 Mid-American Conference Coach of the Year Jim Grobe, looks to win its second consecutive Homecoming game over conference rival Bowling Green at 2 p.m. in Peden Stadium. Last year, Ohio shut out the Falcons, 38-0, on its way to a 6-6 record, its first non-losing season in 14 years.
Saturday night's annual Homecoming concert will feature a performance by blues greats Leon Redbone and John Hommond at 8 p.m. at Grover Center. The concert is sponsored as part of the campus' Performing Arts Series.
For area lodging during Homecoming weekend, call the Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1-800-878-9767. Football tickets can be ordered by calling the Athletic Ticket Office at 1-800-575-CATS, and Homecoming concert tickets can be purchased by contacting 614-593-1780 between noon and 5:30 p.m. (EST) weekdays.
For Homecoming updates and a detailed schedule of campus events, check the Alumni Association Web site at http://www.ohiou.edu/alum/ or call the Alumni Association Hotline at 614-597-ALUM.
