Sports, dancing, royalty, parades and a bonfire. That's what to expect for Ozzie Gras 2002, the week-long University of North Florida Homecoming celebration. Formerly Nest Fest, Ozzie Gras is an annual week of events to celebrate the homecoming of the UNF basketball teams. For the first time, this year's celebration will include the UNF baseball team.

Homecoming Week begins Jan. 26 with men's and women's basketball games versus Columbus (Ga.) State University and a Battle of the Bands and lip sync contest. The festivities continue until Feb. 2, when the Homecoming King and Queen are crowned at the annual dance. Ozzie Gras 2002 is "A Celebration of Unity," focusing on unifying the campus community and the nation. "The [student homecoming] committee decided to choose 'A Celebration of Unity' as this year's homecoming theme to express the unity we as a nation, a society and a campus have shown," said Jordan Schemmel, chair of the committee.

"This unity, in the committee's opinion, should be celebrated and cherished." Other events to look forward to include the homecoming talent show, powder puff flag football, comedians Lewis Black and Aisha Tyler, the homecoming parade and the annual bonfire. For more information about homecoming festivities or about how to get involved, e-mail Schemmel at sgashc@unf.edu or visit the homecoming committee website at www.unf.edu/groups/homecoming.