The unofficial (or maybe it is official) kickoff to hockey season in Smashville begins with the Petey's Preds Party at Bridgestone Arena. This fund raising event is a great night with Predators fans and players enjoying a lively evening of food, fun, and entertainment to benefit the Peterson for Parkinson's Foundation and the Nashville Predators Foundation.
Both organizations have an amazingly positive impact in our community. The Predators Foundation has contributed several hundred thousand dollars annually to worthy community organizations since the team has been in Smashville, and this is one of their premier fundraising events.
Peterson for Parkinson's Foundation is the brainchild of former Predators Coach Brent Peterson. Coach Peterson saw his NHL coaching career cut short after being diagnosed with Parkinson's. After undergoing deep brain stimulation surgery at Vanderbilt, Brent has obtained new mobility and a drive to raise funds to support research to find a cure for Parkinson's.
It is the energy and compassion of these two organizations that have resonated with Predator fans and supporters that have made them so successful in their fundraising efforts.
Here are some scenes from the event:
A look at the stage before the evening started
The event was held over the ice at Bridgestone Arena
Gnash made an appearance in a dance off. I called it a draw.
The event always has some spectacular silent auction items. Trips, date night packages, and numerous sports memorabilia items were available for bid. I am always impressed with the quality of the items that are offered at the auction.
Coach Brent Peterson speaks to the audience. Brent is an amazing man that has not let his disease slow him down
America's Got Talent winner and Vegas headliner Terry Fator was the entertainment for the evening, and he did a fantastic job of entertaining the crowd with his amazing vocal talents.
The event raised over $200,000 on Monday evening. this is a tribute to the support of the Predators fans and the efforts of the Predators and the Peterson Foundation.
