St. Paul Winter Carnival Torch Light Parade

On the evening of January 30th, the Men’s Olympic Curling Team was honored by the St. Paul Winter Carnival with an invitation to the Mayor’s reception at the beautiful City Hall Annex building in downtown St. Paul. At the invitation of St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman, team members John Benton, John Shuster, and Chris Plys spoke to those in attendance at the reception, and when they were done speaking were surrounded by a chant of “USA! USA! USA!” from the crowd.

Following the reception, Team USA was the Grand Marshal for the Winter Carnival Torch Light Parade which winds through downtown St. Paul. While it was much colder than your average parade, it was very exciting to be greeted with cheers and shouts of encouragement along the way. It was cold, but the beautiful decorations, ice sculptures, and the warmth of the spectators made it a memorable experience!

We extend a “thank you” to the City of St. Paul, Mayor Coleman, and the St. Paul Winter Carnival for a unique, St. Paul send off!

St. Paul Sends Team USA Off to the Olympics!

The St. Paul Curling Club (SPCC) hosted a salute to Olympic Team and SPCC members John Benton and Allison Pottinger and their respective teams on Saturday, January 30th. Benton and Pottinger worked with the Junior Curlers from St. Paul in the morning helping the Junior Curling volunteers from the Club show the youngsters delivery technique, sweeping, and good sportsmanship. Following the on-ice time, autographs were signed and photos taken with the kids and the Olympians.

After Junior Curling, a curling clinic was conducted featuring the Olympians and adult curlers who had made a donation to the Olympic curling teams. The clinic featured skills tips and fun camaraderie on the ice. After the curling clinic, men’s team members John Shuster and Chris Plys joined Allison and John by signing autographs and posing for photos with club members.

The afternoon continued with a silent auction featuring a variety of items donated by Club members and business organizations. Among the many items were two curling rocks, a hand carved walnut curling stone, an autographed curling broom, and donations from the professional sports teams in town; Wild, Timberwolves, Twins, and Vikings. To say that the auction was successful would be an understatement! Thank you for your generous donations and your generous bidding!

Food and snacks for the masses were provided by the Club and a good time was had by all.

We extend a big “thank you” to Stephen Geffre and Judy Taylor, the coordinators for this extra special day at the St. Paul Curling Club. Thank you to the Club membership for your incredible support!