Kevin Lynch – the co-chair of this year's United Way of Lake County fundraising campaign – needed to double check.

"Are we at the campaign kickoff or a Mentor High School football rally?" he asked his co-chair, Mentor Schools Superintendent Jacqueline Hoynes.

The kickoff did feature a lot of scarlet and gray as the Cardinals' football team, cheerleaders and marching band all showed their support.

Lynch and Hoynes began by thanking those who continued to give each year. They singled out Lincoln-Electric Company for giving $46,000 already to this year's campaign.

They also announced this campaign's fundraising goal: $3.7 million, which is 3.8 percent more than the $3.57 million they raised last year.

Those who would like more information on the local chapter on the United Way of Lake County, including how they can help support it, can visit its website, www.uwlc.org.