From: Patrick Armstrong, Director of Communications
713.361.7920 (Direct Line)
Scott Henninger, Communications Manager
713.361.7930 (Direct Line)
Wednesday, June 4, 2008

AHL, CLUBS RAISE $2.68 MILLION FOR CHARITABLE CAUSES in 2007-08

HOUSTON, Texas – The American Hockey League announced Tuesday that $2.68 million was raised over the course of the 2007-08 season by the AHL and its 29 member clubs for donation to various charitable causes and relief funds across North America.

Recipients of the AHL's charity endeavors included the Ace Bailey Children's Foundation, the Alzheimer's Association, the American and Canadian Cancer Societies, the American Heart Association, Autism Speaks, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Boys & Girls Clubs, Easter Seals, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Special Olympics, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the United Way and the YMCA, among many others.

In addition to monies raised, AHL teams gave back to their local communities through numerous activities, including nearly 3,000 visits by players and coaches to schools, hospitals, libraries and other locations and nearly 3,000 more mascot appearances. More than 150,000 game tickets were donated to local charitable groups, and items such as food, coats, Christmas gifts and hockey equipment were collected at various drives organized by AHL clubs.

Houston Aeros Charities’ (HAC) hosted many fundraising events this season with the 10th Annual Celebrity Waiter Dinner & Auction being the most successful fundraising generator, raising $113,000. During the 2007-08 season the Aeros participated in 140 appearances throughout Houston at hospitals and other community events. HAC also hosted in-arena food drives benefiting Houston Food Bank, toy drives benefiting Aeros Power Playroom and Salvation Army and blood drives benefiting Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. HAC supports Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston Chronicle in Education Program, Crisis Intervention of Houston, Inc., Elves & More and Youth Hockey.

"The charitable contribution, from our team, is a true testament of the support we receive from our fans and sponsors. We are looking forward to expanding our community outreach next season." said Courtney Eidman, Houston Aeros Charities Executive Director.

In operation since 1936, the AHL continues to serve as the top development league for all 30 National Hockey League teams. More than 84 percent of today's NHL players are American Hockey League graduates, and the 2007-08 season marks the seventh consecutive year in which more than 6 million fans have attended AHL games across North America.

Houston Aeros' 2008-09 season tickets are on sale now! Visit AEROS.com or call the Aeros' front office for more details and to order your tickets today.

-- HOUSTON AEROS --