Hornets Host 'Football Day in Lemont'

Editor's Note: The following press release was submitted by the Lemont Hornets youth football and cheerleading organization:

Founded in 1968, the Hornets football and cheerleading organization is committed to building champions both on and off the field. In its 44th year, the organization continues its tradition of excellence and strives to increase its community outreach.   

Last year the Hornets hosted a food drive and mitten drive based on the belief that champions are built through teamwork and selflessness—in the game and in life. With new programs and events in 2012, the Hornets invite all area residents to get involved and give back.

Read more below about the Community Football Day and Adult Gathering on Aug. 11, scratch-off fundraiser to benefit the Lemont Hornets and the Lemont Food Pantries, and the ongoing food drive at all home games.   

Community Football Day and Adult Gathering, Aug. 11

The Hornets are partnering with the National Football League (NFL) and  football team to host “Football Day in Lemont” from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 11  at Lemont High School, 800 Porter St.

The free event is open to everyone from Lemont and the surrounding communities and features Punt, Pass, and Kick events (entry fee applies to some activities), awards, and medals.

Discounted registration is available before the event, or participants can register on-site the day of the event.  

Later that evening, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., community members are invited to an adult-only event in Talcott Square behind Stonehouse Pub, 103 Main St. in downtown Lemont, for music, food, drinks, and more.  

Visit www.lemonthornets.com for more information.

Fundraiser for Hornets and Food Pantries Features Chance to Win $50K

In the “Run for the Money” fundraiser, participants can buy $1 scratch-off tickets which reveal a variety of prizes, including free tickets, cash prizes, discounts/freebies at local businesses and a chance to win $10,000 or $50,000.  

“This program benefits the community in a number of ways,” said volunteer fundraiser co-chairman Pat Gardner. “The proceeds benefit the Hornets organization and the Lemont Food Pantries, participants get great rewards, and the prizes generate visitors and revenue for Lemont-based businesses.”  

Tickets are available for purchase from any Hornet football player or cheerleader at home games, or by contacting Pat Gardner at pat.gardner@intheq.com or April Rita at aprylz@aol.com.

Home Game Food Drive

Throughout the season, the Hornets organization invites all fans to bring non-perishable food items and dry goods to home games to help stock the shelves of the Lemont Food Pantries.  

Volunteers will collect the donations and deliver them to the food pantry just in time for the holiday season when supplies are most needed.

Hornets Vice President April Rita said, “I’m really excited about our increased focus on community outreach this year. It goes hand-in-hand with our goal of building character in our players and cheerleaders, and brings the community together in so many ways.”  

The increased focus on community service began last year with “Hornets Give Hope for the Holidays” when the organization collected 40 shopping bags full of food to fill Lemont's food pantries. It continued with “Hornets Give Back” at season end when cheerleaders collected 187 new gloves, hats and scarves for families in Lemont and the Joyful Heart organization.

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