A significant milestone in the history of George Gipp Ice Arena has been reached, as the warming area will now bear the name of a dedicated volunteer, Al Ayotte. This honor comes after Andy Storm, a Calumet High School alumnus and entrepreneur, made a generous donation that secured the funding needed to upgrade the ice plant. The ceremony took place during a hockey game between the Calumet Wolverines and Portage Pioneers, where Ayotte also participated in the ceremonial puck drop.

The story begins with a longstanding issue at the George Gipp Ice Arena, where the current ice plant had grown outdated since its installation in 1976. To address this, Laurium Village embarked on a fundraising campaign aiming to raise $325,000 for Phase I of the renovation project. At a recent meeting, Trustee Jeff Erickson reported that they had collected $250,000, still needing an additional $50-75,000 to complete the first phase. Enter Andy Storm, who stepped forward with a substantial contribution of $75,000, bridging the financial gap and enabling the village to move forward with the renovations.

Beyond the monetary support, this event highlighted the deep-rooted connections within the community. Village Manager Ian Lewis noted that Storm and Ayotte had known each other since childhood, having grown up as neighbors. Their bond strengthened over years of shared experiences, particularly through sports activities where Ayotte volunteered tirelessly. For decades, Ayotte has played an instrumental role in local athletics, supporting football, hockey, basketball, and various other teams. His unwavering commitment has left a lasting impression on countless individuals across the region.

In recognition of his contributions, the decision was made to name the George Gipp Warming Area after Al Ayotte. This gesture symbolizes gratitude for his lifelong dedication to fostering a vibrant sporting culture in the community. As the village continues its efforts toward Phase II of the project, which includes replacing boards and glass, it serves as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the enduring legacy of those who give selflessly.

Thanks to Andy Storm's generous contribution, the future of skating traditions in Copper Country is secure. With the completion of Phase I imminent, the focus shifts towards enhancing the facility further. Al Ayotte's naming honors not only acknowledge his past efforts but inspire continued involvement from all community members in preserving their cherished recreational spaces.