Thank You Friends
If you weren't there, you really did miss something special. The "Night at The Nest 2", on Saturday February 4th was the biggest gathering to date of the Springfield Hockey Heritage Society. The night was better than anticipated with friends catching up, good food and yes...even MORE hockey stories! "A Night at The Nest 2" was graciously sponsored by
The Society thanks the sponsors of the event, for their time, their resources and for going the extra mile in helping the Society preserve the legacy by honoring the past! Thanks also to author C. Michael Hiam who was on hand to sign his book, "Eddie Shore and That Old Time Hockey". Proceeds from the night's book sales were generously donated to help the Society continue its efforts.
The worst part of the night took place on the ice as the Springfield Falcons took it on the chin, losing to the Norfolk Admirals by a score of 6-1. A special pre-game ceremony honored men from the Calder Cup teams of 1960, '61, '62, '71 and '75. Those brought out on the ice to the warm accolades of the 4199 in attendance were Ed Tyburski and Ralph Calvanese, key members to the behind the scenes side of the champions of the 70s. Also present was broadcaster and marketing director, Jim Slattery. A surprise guest was one of the goalies from the 1975 team, Steve Rexe. Steve visited us up in The Perch later and he is one of the most engaging personalities you could ever hope to meet.
Special honors were paid to Eddie "Ted" Shore, Jr and AHL Hall of Famer Jimmy Anderson. Shore, as you all know, has done it all and then some at one time or another in the realm of Springfield hockey. Anderson, quite possibly the most revered Springfield player of all time, donned a replica of his #10 sweater from the 1960s championship teams.
Also recognized was Bruce Landon, President and General Manager of the Springfield Falcons. Despite his club having a rough time on the ice, Bruce still made a point to stop by after what was a tough first period. The Springfield Hockey Heritage Society congratulates all members of the Calder Cup championship teams. The members of the Society had a great time, but this was surely their night!
With the end of "A Night at The Nest 2", now planning has started for our next gathering. Stay tuned here to the website for more information on that and other Society projects!