The Stadstad family, Manvel, N.D., letter: Thanks to all for classic 2009 Hockey Classic

MANVEL, N.D. — The Jason Stadstad family would like to thank all those involved in making the Herald/Jason Stadstad Hockey Classic Tournament such a success.

First and foremost, we would like to thank Kevin Fee, the Herald’s former sports editor, for coming up with the idea two years ago and making it happen. We also would like to thank Herald publisher and editor Mike Jacobs for letting the Herald take on and sponsor this event; Jenelle Stadstad, the Herald’s human resources coordinator and executive assistant, and Wayne Nelson, sports editor, and the rest of the Herald staff for their countless hours of commitment and dedication; Todd Olson, Grand Forks Schools athletic director, and his staff for their willingness to help in any and all areas of need; Kelvin Ziegler, event manager, and the Ralph Engelstad Arena staff; and Purpur and Gambucci arenas.

Also, thanks to all sponsors, volunteers, players, coaches, cheerleaders, parents and everyone who attended. What a great team effort!

We also would like to thank the Grand Forks Central hockey team, coach Tony Bina and his staff for their fundraising efforts during the tournament for Team Jason, a nonprofit organization established in Jason’s memory to help others affected by cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Great job, Central Knights, for raising more than $1,000 for Team Jason.

Jason would be honored and humbled by this event. He would be so pleased with everyone’s efforts and would think it’s pretty “awesome” that the proceeds go to charities.

Thanks to all for making it happen and for keeping Jason’s memory alive. We truly are blessed to have such a wonderful, supportive community.

Michelle, Lee, Jared and Justin Stadstad

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