THE 2019 0FF-SEASON

Photo Credit: Hat Trick Production - Lora Evans

The first Johnny Bower Foundation Luncheon was held at the Acton Legion with more than $30,000 being raised. Much of the heavy lifting for this event was done Bower's close friend Don Joyce. Nancy Bower and her family were in attendance to support the fundraising. The Toronto Maple Leafs were well represented with (see the third photo - left to right) Jim Morrison, Bob Nevin, Rod Seiling, Bob Baun, Pete Conacher, Brian Conacher and Ron Ellis taking time to sign autographs.

 On the heels of their Stanley Cup victory, it was a summer of celebration for the St. Louis Blues. In the top photo, former Blues goalie, Glenn Hall, spent time with the Cup when it made its way to Alberta. Despite losing to the Montreal Canadiens in the 1968 Stanley Cup final, Hall captured the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP. He is pictured with St. Louis coach, Craig Berube. In a touching moment (bottom photo), Bob Plager made a visit with the Cup to his brothers final resting place. Barclay Plager joined the Blues when he and Red Berenson were traded from New York Rangers on November 29, 1967. He became a fan favourite and led the NHL with 153 penalty-minutes.   

Photo Credit: Hat Trick Production - Lora Evans

At the monthly Original Six Alumni Lunch, players who played in the Toronto Marlboros/Marlies chain posed for a group photo.

With no action taking place during the summer, one can take the time to read a hockey book. I received the top photo from Dave Keon's wife, Jane, in an email. The caption read, "David's summer read at the beach." I interviewed Dave for my book on Bob Goldham. Bob was Dave's only coach when he skated for the St. Mike's Majors junior A team in the OHA.