Local legends hockey game highlight of fundraiser for new Zamboni
Community organizers are hoping the luck of the Irish is with them when they host a fundraiser at the Shelburne County Arena on Saturday, March 17, in support of the campaign to replace the facility’s ailing 34-year old Zamboni.
A Local Legends hockey game between the Sable Fish Packers and the Sea Star Ice Dogs will be the highlight of the event, but other activities are also planned that will add to the fun and excitement of the evening, said Jennie Huskilson, one of the organizers.
During the opening ceremonies, which begin at 6 p.m., recognition is going to be given to people who have “made considerable contributions to the arena throughout the years,” Huskilson said. Local dignitaries will be on hand to make the presentations.
There will also be a display, being organized by Kim Walker Robertson, showcasing the history of the Shelburne County Arena featuring the many activities and events that have been held there over the years.
“Everything from broom ball, fig- ure skating, bingos, dances, everything,” said Huskilson.
A 50/50 draw, a money stick and raffle tickets on a basket will also be part of the fundraising activities.
Huskilson said there are “tons of other people” helping organize and support the event, including the Shelburne County Figure Skating Club and the Shelburne County Minor Hockey Association. The event has also attracted major The Shelburne County Arena is not a municipally operated run arena. It is owned and operated by the community-run non-profit association. sponsors such as Scotia Bank, who will make a matching donation of up to $5,000. Event sponsors also include Sea Star Seafoods, Roseway Chrysler/Smith & Watt, Harlow Construction, H&B Car Sales/Goulden Shell, and Shelburne Woodworkers Home Hardware.
Huskilson is optimistic the fundraiser will be a success. In excess of $10,000 had already been raised for the fundraiser as of March 6.
The puck drops at 7 p.m. for the Local Legends hockey game, which will bring together a good line-up of local hockey talent spanning several generations. Admission will be by donation.
The Shelburne County Arena Association, which owns and operates the Shelburne County Arena, has also initiated a fundraising campaign to replace the Zamboni, which is expected to cost $100,000.