When the final buzzer sounded in the Art Johnson/Gary Ryan Memorial Old-Timers Hockey Game at the Beachburg Arena Saturday night, it didn’t matter which team won, because the charity was the real winner.
Following the yearly hockey game between the Beachburg Oldtimers and the Greenwood Oldtimers, there was a live auction. The proceeds from that also went to the charity.
“It went really well,” said Danny Buchanan, an organizer of the 15th annual event.
This year’s event raised $5,300, bringing the total of 15 years to more than $50,000 raised for Roger’s House.
“It was crazy this year,” he said. “Usually we raise between two and three thousand dollars,” he said. “There were gift certificates going for more than what they were for.”
The pizza and refreshments that were for sale were completely sold out, Mr. Buchanan said.
But, it wasn’t just the fans who turned out, he said. There were at least 16 to 17 players for each of the teams as well, he added.
Mr. Buchanan said it was decided this would be the final year for the fundraiser. Gary Ryan started the charity hockey game following the death of his good friend Art Johnson. Last year, Gary died, and since he was the big co-ordinator of the event, it was decided this would be the final year for the event.
Members from both families were present for the final game and the Ryan family was presented with the trophy. The inscription on the front and centre plaque reads, “Thanks Gary, Roger’s House, 2016.” On either side of the centre plaque are plaques for the Beachburg Oldtimers and the Greenwood Oldtimers.
It was noted when Blaine Johnson gave a talk at the arena prior to the game, he said, “Let’s celebrate two lives definitely worth celebrating. Here’s to Garry and Art. You are not forgotten!”
