Batter for Better Athletes

In one day over 900 pounds of pancake batter will splatter West High’s kitchen as volunteers scramble to make a pancake breakfast for attendees of the 50th Annual Pancake Day event.

“I think it’s a terrific event, and I like the fact that it involves both City and West,” said City High boys tennis coach, Chip Hardesty. “I think we, the East and West sides, should cooperate more than we do anyways.  Pancake Day is a nice joined effort that helps support both of our athletic programs.”

This year will mark the 50th Annual Pancake Day, held by the Iowa City Booster Club at West High. Jim Sangster, 1947 City High graduate and former Booster Club president, is very excited for this event.

“We started with the idea of having a banquet for these kids. I think the Pancake Day grew out of that,” Sangster said. “It’s a good way to help to raise money.”

Last year over 35,000 dollars was raised with the help of 200 volunteers and many sponsors. The money raised is used to help fund athletic programs at North Central Jr. High, Northwest Jr. High, Southeast Jr. High, City High, and West High School.

“The Iowa City Booster Club Pancake Day has become a notable tradition in our community. “Said Lisa Ringen, City HIgh Co-Chair of Pancake Day. “It is one of the great events that bring all of our Iowa City community schools together to work as one team.”

The Booster Club is aiming to reach their goal of 50,000 dollars by having a good turnout at this event. The cost for one person is five dollars, and children three years and under eat for free.

Besides the included all-you-can-eat pancake meal, there will also be a raffle with items picked from local businesses, the community, and school supporters. The tickets will range from one to ten dollars and the prizes will be presented after the event has ended. Brady Swenning ‘14 is an avid attendee at this event.

“I really enjoy Pancake Day,” Swenning said. “They always have great food and entertainment.”