CHA To Unveil Zamboni, Salute Bracco

The Calumet Hockey Association will unveil its new Zamboni at tonight’s opening game of the Copper Island Classic. John Carroll of the CHA says the new unit doesn’t just replace the aging one… it’s an upgrade. “We got an automated wash system that’s going to improve the quality of our ice,” he explained. “We’ve had it on the ice a few times, and the ice looks great.” The Zamboni cost 98-thousand dollars. Money was raised mostly through a business advertising and sponsorship program. It’s the third step in a four-step rink improvement campaign, which started with the installation of a new ice plant last year, and continued with the restoration of the former scoreboard from the Michigan Tech SDC, which was installed at the Colosseum. The next step will be new boards and  glass, which Carroll says will cost at least 175-thousand dollars.

Tonight will be extra-special for longtime Calumet hockey supporter Paul Bracco. Carroll says Bracco will be honored with the Paul Lehto Service Award for his 60 years of contributions to Calumet hockey and the Colosseum. “We have some other surprises for him, too,” Carroll said. “It’s going to be an exciting night, and we’re glad to give some recognition back to Paul Bracco.” At one time or another, Bracco has done pretty much every job needed, from managing the rink, to coaching teams, to driving the Zamboni. The award ceremony and Zamboni unveiling will begin at 7:00 tonight. The first game of the Copper Island Classic between Calumet and Hancock will follow.