'Pre-Bowl Bash' Raises $15K for District 113A Educational Foundation

The Lemont-Bromberek Combined School District 113A Educational Foundation kicked off Super Bowl weekend by raising $15,000 for academic grants and programs in the district's three schools.

More than 200 people attended the foundation's second annual "Pre-Bowl Bash," held Saturday at . The event featured a night of dining and dancing, silent auctions and raffles — all to benefit the students and teachers of .

"It's exciting to see so many people come out to support the schools," said Mara Tunzi, president of the District 113A Educational Foundation.

Like the inaugural Pre-Bowl Bash, this year's event featured rock and roll cover band The Neverly Brothers, as well as an array of silent auction items—including restaurant gift cards, sporting event tickets, spa services and vacations.

Guests also participated in a beanbag tournament organized by District 113A administrators.

"We had such a fun time," event organizer Michele Metzler said. "We were able to get some really great donations thanks to our many supporters, so we're really grateful."

Metzler said she was particularly happy to see support from individuals outside the District 113A community. Rep. Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs) attended the event, while professional cyclist Christian Vande Velde—a Lemont resident—provided a signed jersey for the auction.

"I'm extremely pleased with the level of involvement and generosity of the Lemont community," she said. "The number of businesses and families who consistently give back to the schools is really amazing."

The District 113A Educational Foundation was founded in May 2010 after the district cut more than $3.17 million in staff and programs. Its purpose is to provide financial resources beyond the operating budget, which students and teachers may use toward educational enrichment.

Last year, the inaugural Pre-Bowl Bash for the district. In October, the foundation raised more than $25,000 with its .

To date, the foundation has awarded more than $40,000 to teachers at , and schools. Items purchased through grants include MP3 players for reading programs, MimioTeach systems, iPad2 devices, updated world maps, art supplies, books, magazine subscriptions and a license renewal for Brain Pop software.

District 113A Board Member Lisa Wright, the board's official spokesperson, said she attended the Pre-Bowl Bash and was again impressed by the foundation's commitment to the district.

"If you want to find true supporters of District 113A, the foundation is where you'll find them," Wright said. "Who can resist a night out, right in your backyard, with incredible entertainment and a gathering of people who have come together for a common cause? I personally extend a big thank you to all of the individuals involved in pulling this event together—their dedication is unwavering and much appreciated."

Metzler said the foundation plans to award another round of grants this spring. 

"One of the things we did this year at the Pre-Bowl Bash was display thank-you letters from students who have benefited from our grants. That's what it's all about," she said. "It's amazing to see how this money can positively impact our kids."

For more information on the District 113A Educational Foundation, visit www.sd113afoundation.org.