Teddy Bears to Hit the Ice to Salute Nation's Heroes

The Plymouth Community United Way and the Plymouth Whalers are hoping it will rain a torrent of teddy bears after the OHL hockey team scores its first goal against the Kitchener Rangers on Dec. 1, at Compuware Arena, 14900 Beck Road, Plymouth.

This year, the 13th annual Teddy Bear Toss will not only provide toys to brighten the holidays of children in need, but also will pay tribute to the five branches of the United States Armed Forces with a Salute to Our Heroes.

After the second intermission, local representatives, on behalf of the military branches, will receive certificates of thanks. Active and veteran soldiers with military ID will be admitted to the game free of charge. Discounted $10 tickets are available for their family members.

Fans at the game will have the chance to show their appreciation by writing postcards to thank soldiers for their service.

For more information, call Pat VanDusen at (734) 453-8679, ext. 7.

For tickets, call (734) 453-8400 or visit plymouthwhalers.com.

Last year, more than 800 teddy bears were thrown onto the ice creating an avalanche of stuffed animals.

This year, fans are being asked to bring an abundance of bears to top that total. The fun begins at 7:05 p.m.

Visit www.plymouthunitedway.org to learn about a variety of ways to give and volunteer.