The Erie Otters will hold a fundraiser on Aug. 19 at Warner Theatre for former forward Jason Baird, who suffered serious burns over 60-65 percent of his body in a lawnmower explosion on July 17 in Austintown, Ohio. The benefit will be held from 7-9 p.m.
NHL players and Otters alumni Tim Connolly (Buffalo), Mike Rupp (New Jersey) and Steve Valiquette (N.Y. Rangers) will attend the event. Former Otters goaltender Adam Munro, who played for Syracuse (AHL) last season, also will appear. Brad Boyes (St. Louis), Chris Campoli (N.Y. Islanders) and Carlo Colaiacovo (Toronto) and others also could attend.
The event includes autograph and photo opportunities with players, memorabilia raffles and auction items. Former players could donate ticket packages to a game involving their NHL clubs and Pittsburgh at Mellon Arena next season, Sherry Bassin, Otters managing partner/general manager, said Friday. Rupp, who has taken an active role in the event, expects to donate a ticket package for New Jersey’s game in Pittsburgh on Oct. 11, Bassin said. That package could include passes to the Devils’ dressing room.
Tickets to the fundraiser are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and under. They include a chance to win hockey memorabilia door prizes. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Baird family to help with medical costs. Light snacks and a cash also will be available at the event. For more information, call the Otters’ office at (814) 455-7779 or e-mail at mark@ottershockey.com.