MLS Chicago Fire FC

FireWorks for Kids Foundation to Hold 2004 Season Kickoff Luncheon on April 6

Published on March 17, 2004 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Chicago Fire FC News Release


CHICAGO, IL (Wednesday, March 17, 2004) - The Chicago Fire's charitable arm - the FireWorks for Kids Foundation - announced today that the club's 2004 Season Kickoff Luncheon, presented by Athletico, will take place on Tuesday, April 6 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, located at 151 East Wacker Drive, beginning at 11:00 a.m. CT.

The 2004 Season Kickoff Luncheon will mark the sixth edition of the popular event, which traditionally marks the beginning of the season for both the club and the Foundation. Former U.S. National Team player Harry Keough is expected to attend the event to share memories the sport of soccer has given him and comment on the Crusader Entertainment film "The Game of Their Lives." Guests at the Kickoff Luncheon will be able to watch a sneak preview of the movie - due for release later this year - which tells the story of the 1950 U.S. National Team that Keough was a member of. That U.S.A. squad registered what is still considered one of the greatest surprises in soccer history when it defeated England 1-0 in the 1950 World Cup.

"The FWFK is proud to once again produce this premier event marking the opening of the 2004 Chicago Fire season," says Donald Ortale, CEO of the FireWorks for Kids Foundation. "The FWFK continues to support the charitable efforts of the Chicago Fire through our annual events and community outreach efforts."

The entire Fire player roster and coaching staff will be on hand to discuss the upcoming 2004 season, making this a spectacular event for Fire supporters and all fans of the sport. The first twenty full paid tables of ten will sit with a Chicago Fire player. In addition, the luncheon will include the always-popular silent auction, featuring Fire and sports memorabilia, gift certificates and more.

Tickets for this year's Season Kickoff Luncheon are $60 per individual or $500 for a table of ten. All proceeds from this year's event and silent auction will benefit the FireWorks for Kids Foundation, which since 1998 has helped the Chicago Fire contribute its service and commitment to the community through grants and charitable contributions. The FWFK mission is to forward recreational and educational opportunities for economically or otherwise disadvantaged children throughout the Chicagoland area.

While tickets are still available, seats to this year's Season Kickoff Luncheon are selling fast and the event is expected to sell out for the second consecutive year. If you wish to reserve a seat or find out more information about the event, please call the FireWorks for Kids Foundation office at 312-705-7218 or visit the "Foundation Events" page under the Community section of www.chicago-fire.com.




Major League Soccer Stories from March 17, 2004


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central