Our Power Play for Heroes was a success, thanks to all of you who attended and donated.
A recap of the game:
We had our highest attended game to date for the Stahls’ Power Play for Heroes hockey game with attendance above 1200 people, which is above the arena capacity, and filled the stands and both ends of the rink which was standing room only. Our charity hockey game is an event, not just a game and we like to create an experience for anyone attending.
The hockey game was at SCS Civic Arena, the cowbells, cheers, applause, and hand clappers could be heard throughout the arena.
Fans in attendance were able to take part in 50/50 and gift basket raffles, take their photo with the Ted Lindsay award or replica Stanley Cup and explore all the memorabilia and auction items that were on display as well as enjoy the food truck from BBQ Daddy while sipping on a cold beverage. The octo-toss was a fun experience for those in the crowd and we also added face painting this year, in which many of the kids attending took part.
The hockey game was emceed by Sean Baligian. Sean has been in talk radio for nearly 25 years and currently is the host of WJR’s “Spin on Golf,” as well as the host of WJR’s “SportsWrap with Sean Baligian,” Sean has been named “Best Radio Sports Talk Host” by the Metro Times, and has hosted radio shows all over Michigan.
Veterans were honored before the game which is truly a special moment especially being able to listen to their past stories. Dan Stahl spoke thanking everyone involved in making the event happen, with special thanks to Paul Sabatini and Kelli Harvey, the volunteers, and everyone in attendance for their support of our Veterans and Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.
The ceremonial puck drop featured 4X Stanley Cup Champion Darren McCarty, Dan Stahl, and Matt McMurray & Cobalt, his medically trained service dog from Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.
The hockey game included 2 Hockey Hall of Famers (Larry Murphy, Dino Ciccarelli) and Stanley Cup Champions (Darren McCarty, Drew Miller, Larry Murphy) and actor/comedian Dave Coulier. There was excitement with end-to-end rushes, great passing, and gamesmanship and in the end, The Alumni came out on top.
Comments received regarding the hockey game…
John Blum (DRWA) – You guys are the best.
Ellen Schaffer (social media post) – this is the best game of the year.
Eddie Mio (DRWA) – you guys did a fantastic job, everybody had fun.
George Bowman (DRWA) – another great Stahls’ production.
Darren McCarty (DRWA) – it was awesome, you all should be proud.
Brad Galli (WXYZ) – congratulations on an impactful event that really brought the community together.
Jim Galloway (founding member of Jets pizza franchise) – this is amazing, you guys do a great job, its unbelievable.
Matt McMurray (GAMSD recipient) – your company is amazing thank you so much, this is incredible, love my jersey and so does Cobalt.
Mary Lamparter (GAMSD) – The Stahls’ company and the Stahl family are such wonderful people and what we do makes a difference in someone’s life, and we should all be proud of that.
Frank Taylor (SCS MI Flyers) – another great event. Thank you for including the Flyers to be part of this with you
Brandon Able (SCS Civic Arena Manager) – this is crazy and amazing at the same time, showcase event of the year.
A recap of the Open House:
Even with the hectic road construction, nearly 1000 people turned out to show their support for our veterans. Soon after opening the doors, a color guard proceeded down the main aisle as world renown Theatre Organist Dave Wickerham played God Bless America on the Mighty Wurlitzer. Stahls own Tim Cholyway followed up singing the National Anthem as a crowd gathered around the organ. John Lind welcomed our visitors, offered a prayer and then introduced Dan Stahl. Dan brought up Mary Lamparter of Guardian Angels along with two veterans and their service dogs. The dogs felt compelled to jump in on the speeches as well. New this year, Pops Eats on the Streets food truck was available outside for those looking for a bite to eat along with a bake sale inside. A silent auction was held with original metal artwork donated by local artist Brian Sabalinski, a Southern Comfort Electric guitar, and some very cool signed octopi from Al Sobotka!
Both events were successful and we are looking forward to our 10th anniversary Open House in 2024!
