TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The University of Alabama is preparing to welcome incoming freshmen and transfer students with this year’s annual Bama Blast scheduled for Monday, Aug. 22, at 4 p.m. on the Quad.

Bama Blast is an event designed to welcome all incoming freshmen and transfer students with free food and live entertainment, while giving students a chance to meet each other before classes begin Aug. 24.

2005 Bama Blast events include:

4 p.m. - TCBY Ice Cream Social, Climbing Wall and Flight Simulators sponsored by UA’s Corps of Cadets, Class Location (Find your classes with the help of an Avanti Team member)

5 p.m. - Welcome at Denny Chimes

5:15 p.m. - Elephant Stomp from the Quad to Bryant-Denny Stadium

5:30 p.m. - Roll Tide Pep Rally at Bryant-Denny Stadium
Meet Eli Gold, Alabama cheerleaders, the Million Dollar Band and Big Al

6:30 p.m. - Taste of Tuscaloosa with food from various restaurants and live entertainment

Along with Bama Blast, the “Navigating the Tide” program kicks off and there are several new events for students this year that will continue for the first six weeks of the fall semester. Navigating the Tide will have welcome booths during the first week of school where students can get directions, water, mints, and answers to questions. Also, each Friday night in September, Navigating the Tide will sponsor a pool party with free food and fun events. Go to www.navigate.ua.edu for more information.