Homecoming Pep Rally, Bonfire Excite Panther Fans

Thursday night was damp and drizzle-filled in the Saucon Valley, but the challenging weather proved to be nothing that a little Panther prowess couldn't handle.

Immediately following a raucous community pep rally--which drew hundreds of excited fans to the gym--students, parents and supporters of the Saucon Valley football team proceeded to the school district stadium, where the traditional Homecoming bonfire had been built.

Following Thursday's rain, however, the fire did not want to be lit.

It took about 20 minutes of cajoling by volunteer firefighters--with gasoline and flares--to turn the pile of wooden signs and kindling into a roaring inferno, but the end result of their efforts was a blazing beacon whose glow could be seen all throughout the Hellertown area.

Many local residents parked their cars along Panther Way in order to get an up-close view of the spectacle, and the school marching band kept spirits high throughout the evening with regular bursts of song.

At the pep rally, fans were treated to performances by the Saucon Valley cheerleaders (including one that featured members of the football team), and athletes and members of the 2011 Homecoming Court were recognized.

At tonight's Homecoming game (7pm) at the stadium, this year's Homecoming Queen will be crowned, and on Saturday from 7 to10pm Saucon Valley's Homecoming Dance will be held in the high school gym.

Remember to wear your red and black!