Islanders open Coliseum ice to give fans chance to skate, collect donations
UNIONDALE, NY (November 6, 2012) – The New York Islanders are holding a special event to help raise funds for area residents affected by Hurricane Sandy. On Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 12, from 2 – 8 p.m., the team will host a free, open skate at Nassau Coliseum for the general public. Throughout the event, the team will collect monetary donations, warm clothing and other non-perishable items.
“Hurricane Sandy devastated our local community and we want to do everything we can to help,” Islanders General Manager Garth Snow said. “This event will offer families in our community the chance to take a break from their recovery efforts and enjoy themselves.”
Donations are not mandatory to attend, but highly encouraged. Public skating sessions will run every hour throughout the six-hour event on the Coliseum ice and will feature Islanders Ice Girls and team mascot Sparky, the Dragon. Fans participating in any of the sessions must bring their own skates, but spectators are also welcome to enjoy the festivities. Interactive games will also be set up around the rink for younger fans to play throughout the day. Food and drinks will be available to purchase, with proceeds helping local victims.
Join employees from the New York Islanders, arena management company SMG and Coliseum concessionaire SAVOR in contributing to this worthy cause. Proceeds generated from personal donations and concessions, as well as any clothing donated, will go directly to the American Red Cross’ Hurricane Sandy Relief efforts. Island Harvest will collect all non-perishable food and beverage items to distribute to Long Islanders affected by Hurricane Sandy. Items most needed include water, diapers, blankets, baby formula and canned food.
Attendees can enter at the Hempstead Turnpike Main Entrance and gain access to the building through the Coliseum Box Office. Parking is free for this event.
