July 19, 2012

Area hockey fans and the Adirondack Phantoms have teamed in a unique way to donate to area charities. Benefiting from the generosity of the fans and Phantoms in this collaborative effort are local chapters of the Special Olympics, United Way and YMCA.

The creative donation involved season ticket holders with remaining ticket credits at the end of the 2011-12 season. Those fans were asked if they were interested in donating those ticket credits to area charities. And the Phantoms would take care of the rest.

The overwhelming response from our great fans for this charity ticket drive was fantastic! And now the Phantoms are proud to announce the donations of multiple season tickets for the upcoming 2012-13 season for each of the organizations.

"The Tri-County United Way is most appreciative of this partnership with the Phantoms," said Executive Director Barbara Sweet. "We are grateful for their efforts to work with their fans to encourage contributions, as they have done with this ticket drive. As always, our thanks to (Phantoms Executive Vice President) Chris Porreca for all he does."

Daphne Taylor, Youth and Family Director at the Family YMCA of the Glens Falls Area echoed that sentiment. "Our partnership with the Phantoms really supports the Y's work to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities" said Taylor. "The tickets will go to teens in our leadership programs and to families who might not otherwise be able to go to a game,"

Neal J. Johnson, President and CEO of Special Olympics New York agreed. "We are delighted with our partnership with the Phantoms and grateful for the organization's efforts encouraging their fans to support our athletes as they have done through this ticket drive. Thank you to Chris Porreca for his leadership and continuing support of both our mission and our athletes."

The Phantoms are especially pleased to have the opportunity to support these fantastic local causes and non-profit organizations. The team's focus is always on the community. And that commitment towards these charitable groups is highlighted all year long via a wide range of initiatives including donations, personal appearances and in-game publicity and fundraisers.
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Our great fans are crucial. A sincere thank you goes out to all who made this possible through the generous donations of their ticket credits benefiting these worthwhile non-profit causes in our region.

I'm In! We need 1,756 season ticket holders for next season to conclusively prove the viability of Glens Falls as a great hockey market. The league and other teams are watching! We're already off to a great start. Keep it up, fans! To join the "I'm In" campaign, contribute your $50 down-payment to a season ticket for 2012-13 or ask about a 22-pack or 12-pack ticket plan. Together we can do this. Call the Adirondack Phantoms at (518) 480-3355.

Phantoms Executive Vice President Chris Porreca with Neal J. Johnson, President and CEO of Special Olympics New York.

Phantoms Director of Ticket Sales Kevin Schildt presents the donated ticket package plus some additional Phantoms goodies to Meredith Hastings, Community Resource Coordinator at Tri-County United Way.

Kevin Schildt of the Phantoms presents the ticket package to representatives of the Family YMCA of the Glens Falls area. Receiving the package are Daphne Taylor, Youth and Family Director and Brian Bearor, Chief Executive Officer.