Cornapalooza draws big crowd

The Homewood Athletic Foundation hosted its fourth annual Cornapalooza cornhole tournament on Sunday, March 17, at Pizzeria G.M. in West Homewood. 

The event raised funds for the foundation, which provides additional monetary support for Homewood athletic programs. John Wallace, foundation president, said that 48 teams registered to compete in the double-elimination tournament. 

Registration cost $400 and included two Homewood AF T-shirts, beer tickets and pizza.

A host of local breweries donated beer for the event, Wallace said, and Pizzeria G.M. provided pizza for all participants. Wallace said Pizzeria G.M. also pledged to give 20 percent of its St. Patrick's Day sales to the foundation. 

Excluding T-shirt and beer proceeds, Wallace said the event raised between $22,000 and $23,000 through registration and corporate sponsorships. 

He estimated that attendance increased by 50 percent from last year, when it was held at Red Hills Brewing Company.

Sunshine and warm temperatures made for pristine conditions. The event also featured live music and bounce houses. 

"I think turnout has been fabulous," Wallace said. 

For more information about the foundation, go to homewoodaf.org.