Fenton boosters plan new fundraiser to help teams
One of the missions of the Fenton High School Bison Boosters athletic club in Bensenville is to supply some of the items on coaches' wish lists.
This year, Dennis Cromer, the boys head basketball coach, said, "Boys basketball is in pretty good shape. But if they could get me a tall player, I'd be happy with that."
While the boosters may not be able to provide Cromer with a forward, they have plans for a fundraiser.
The inaugural Spring Fling will be from 6:30 to 11 p.m. today at the Salt Creek Golf Course, 18W700 Thorndale Ave., Wood Dale.
"This is one way for the boosters to show our support for Fenton and the athletic department," said Wally Takoy of Wood Dale, a booster club member. "If the booster club can pay for some of these items, it's another fee parents won't have to pay."
In the past, the boosters have been able to provide wish list items such as scoreboards and sideline chairs, as well as multiple $1,000 college scholarships to Fenton High School graduates annually.
In addition, the money raised is also used to purchase soft goods such as uniforms, warm-up jackets and athletic bags.
To supplement the booster club's fundraising activities, typically done with money raised through concession stand sales, the club has added this event to its calendar.
Takoy said all alumnae over the age of 21 are invited, as well as community members and anyone who wants to dance and enjoy the music of local rock band Elite.
For a $20 donation, attendees will be able to sample a variety of hors d' oeuvres and dance to the music of an eight-piece band.
"I'll be dancing that night," Takoy said.
Many Fenton alum, as well as staff and coaches, have announced they will be on hand.
"It's a reunion that isn't a reunion," Takoy said. "After being cooped up this winter, it's a chance for old friends to catch up."
Takoy said the boosters are hoping to sell 200 tickets.
"If we happen to sell 300 or 400, that would be even better. As with any first-time event, it's a lot of hard work to get it kicked off. We're just trying to reach as many people as possible."
Band leader and musician Gary Pietrucha of Wood Dale will be in charge of providing the night's entertainment.
"I know graduates from 1972, as well as some from 2002 who will be there, and we're going to have music that they all will enjoy," Pietrucha said.
He encourages all Fenton alum to purchase a ticket.
"Come on back and support your school. I'm offering the services of our band, and that's the best way I can contribute. We want to help move the fundraiser forward in a new and fun way. It's better than trying to sell door to door."
Tickets to the Spring Fling can be purchased at the Fenton bookstore or by calling Kathy Biagi at (630) 595-8154.