A Night to Remember: Tailgater 2024

There’s something special about fall in Auburn— the crisp evening air, the buzz of excitement, and the undeniable energy that comes with football season. But on Friday, September 13, 2024, we cranked that feeling up to 11 with our annual Tailgater! If you were lucky enough to join us at School Park Preserve, you know exactly what we’re talking about.

It’s More Than Just a Game – It’s Community

Our Tailgater isn’t just about football (although, let’s be honest, we were all pumped to see the Hillmen take on the Antelope Titans). It’s about celebrating the heart of what makes Placer High so special—our community. From alumni to parents, local businesses to die-hard fans, this event brought together the very people who make Auburn feel like home.

The night kicked off at 5:00 PM, and boy, did it set the tone! With tables full of familiar faces and the savory scent of barbecue filling the air, it felt like one giant family reunion. Special shoutout to Local Heroes for the mouth-watering BBQ dinner! Those burgers and homemade potato chips? We’re still dreaming about them.

And thank you to Raley’s for donating a gift card for bottled waters, and Save-Mart for a generous gift card to cover the cost of their yummy cookies.

Raise a Glass to Good Times!

We also want to tip our hats to Vina Castellano Winery and Crooked Lane Brewery. Their local wines and craft beers were the perfect complement to the evening. It was also great to have former board member and Vina Castellano owner Teena Mendez Wilkins and her hubby pouring their wines and continuing to support the Foundation’s efforts to enrich Placer High.

Speaking of special moments, it was amazing to welcome back the Class of 1994 as they kicked off their 30th Class Reunion with us. To all the ‘94 grads: you sure know how to get the party started! It was heartwarming to see them reconnect, swapping stories and laughter that felt like no time had passed at all. It’s a beautiful reminder of how deep Placer’s roots go.

Celebrating 35 Years of the Hillmen Foundation

But this Tailgater had even more reason to celebrate! This year marked the 35th anniversary of the Hillmen Foundation, and we partied like it was 1989. We honored the legacy of our founders, Jug Covich and Tom Johnson, whose vision back in ’89 created this incredible organization. Through their foresight—and the generosity of our community—our foundation continues to provide that extra "margin of excellence" that keeps Placer High thriving in academics, athletics, and activities.

A Huge Thank You to Our Tailgater Partners

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the incredible support from our community. Whether you were a sponsor or major donor, or attended the event to share in the fun, you made this night one for the books. We are so grateful to everyone who contributed—especially our Tailgater Partners who went above and beyond. You truly helped make this evening unforgettable.

Champion

• Special Friend of the Hillmen Foundation

Gold

• Claire Haydon Christensen & Family

• FAMFest/Creative Music Services

• Kathy Sands & Family

Green

• Auburn Medical Group: Mark Vaughan, MD & G. Gawayne Vaughan, MD

• Gold Country Stoves

Boosters

• Friends of Alice Dowdin Calvillo for Auburn City Council

• Shana Fain McDonald & Family

• Re-elect Supervisor Cindy Gustafson

• Alicia Kellie

• Lightfoot Truck Repair

• David & Nancy Odom

• Peters Engineering

Fans

• Collins & Collins

• Bob Haydon & Family

And to all who came out to celebrate? You are the heartbeat of the Hillmen Foundation. Without your spirit and support, we wouldn’t have the vibrant, thriving community that we do. It’s evenings like these that remind us how lucky we are to be a part of something bigger—something that’s been going strong for 127 years and counting.

Prizes Galore!

No fundraising event is complete without fun and fabulous raffle prizes. Thank you to our raffle donors for helping support our grants program at Placer High, including: Roper’s Jewelers, Getaway Travel Specialists, Monkey Cat, Boisset Wines by Renee Reale, Twisted C’s Jewelry, Dutch Bros, Hair by Jenny Menchinella Kyle, Norway by Jen Russell, Holt of California, Alice Dowdin Calvillo, and Friends of Placer High School.

Here’s to Many More Tailgaters!

As we wrapped up the evening and turned our attention to the big game (Hillmen vs. Antelope Titans), there was no denying the sense of pride we all felt. We weren’t just cheering for a football team; we were celebrating the very essence of Placer High, the Auburn community, and everything they stand for.

Whether you’re a Hillmen alum, parent, or a newcomer to our events, we hope you felt the magic in the air that night. Here’s to many more Tailgaters, more touchdowns, and more unforgettable memories. Go Hillmen!

Stay Tuned for More Fun!

If you missed out this year, don’t worry—there’s always next time. Be sure to keep an eye out for more Hillmen Foundation events, and let’s keep this community spirit rolling all year long.

Until next time, let’s go Hillmen!