Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Final Press Release - August 15, 2018


For Immediate Release:
Local charities bring Teddy Bear Clinic, Race the Track, Shoot the Net and more to Jerry’s Friends Day

Jerry’s Friends Day, at Alumni Field, University of Windsor, Alumni Field, on August 25th, 2018

Windsor, ON, August 15, 2018 — Fun for the whole family, Jerry’s Friends Day, begins at 5 pm at Alumni Stadium at the University of Windsor. Charities close to Jerry will be participating at the event including:

Knobby’s Kids – Join mini-hockey scrimmage games, or, test your speed at shoot the net. Hockey sticks provided.
University of Windsor Athletic Club – Make sure your running shoes are on to sign up for a mini-track meet. Different age divisions.
EMS & William E. Macri 4th Memorial Watch – Kids can check out the ambulance while parents/grandparents can learn about the Vulnerable Patient Program
St. Clair College Alumni Association – 3 princesses will be waiting to greet kids – have your cameras ready.
Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation – Bring your teddy bear or stuffie to the Teddy Bear Clinic for a complete check-up.
Windsor Hospice – Be ready to dance on the track as the Hospice rock n roll band takes stage at 8 pm.

The evening culminates with fireworks at approx. 9 pm.

We will be raising funds for these important charities during the event so bring your change and small bills.

Other activities include:
  • Matthew Romain, Laughtertainer at the Stadium entrance gates 
  • Fire department arrives at 6 pm to help cool down active kids 
  • Food trucks 
  • Zoo2You Petting Zoo 
  • Popcorn, cotton candy, hot dogs & sausages 
  • Face painting and tattoos 
  • A special Memory Lap for Jerry will commence at 5:30, and for a donation, guests will receive an official Jerry’s Friends Day runners bib to join the celebratory race.
The Slavik family is grateful to the University of Windsor, WFS (Windsor Factory Supply), the City of Windsor, the Running Factory, Running Count, K & H Fireworks, and so many more for making this event possible. Donations are being accepted online at http://www.gofundme.com/jerry039s-friends. Visit https://jerrysfriendsacelebration.blogspot.com to learn about the charities to benefit from this event.

About Jerry Slavik: Local philanthropist, business owner, organizer extraordinaire, Jerry supported organizations and causes that stressed participation, opportunity, and fun. He was passionate about Windsor and helped to build expertise in the track and field community to host world class events such as the Canadian Olympic Track and Field qualifying meet for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. His enthusiasm extended to all age groups with Knobby’s Kids offering a skate and hockey program for 3 to 13-year olds.

The tribute event for Jerry Slavik is open to the entire community. Jerry’s Friends Day is an opportunity for his family to thank everyone who came into Jerry’s life and gave of their time, support and friendship.


For more information:

Mary Slavik
Event Chair
Contact Details: jerrysfriendsday@gmail.com; 416-455-9137

Media sites:
Website: (blog) https://jerrysfriendsacelebration.blogspot.com
FB: https://facebook.com/jerrys.friends.a.celebration/
IG: https://instagram.com/jerrys.friends.celebration/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JerrysFriends 



Sunday, August 5, 2018

Memory Wall

Would you like to record a video about your fondest memories of Jerry?
We are pleased to announce that Roger Faubert will be at the event on August 25th to record your memories which will be posted to this site.
If you landed here on the HOME Page, Click "READ MORE" to post a written memory now!

Tuesday, July 24, 2018

Jerry's Charities



Knobby's Kids

Back in 2005, Robert “Knobby” Knudson had heard about a bunch of kids who wanted to play hockey but whose families could not afford to play in existing leagues. Knobby approached Frank Spry and Jerry to figure out how to get these kids on the ice. Knowing there were likely many more kids wanting to play hockey, they formed Knobby’s Kids at Lanspeary Park. However, Knobby’s isn’t just about hockey, it’s about introducing kids to their first pair of skates and the exhilaration of skating.

Now getting ready for its 13th season, Knobby’s is open for children ages 3 – 13. Gear is provided for free, thanks to generous donations of equipment, as well as skating and hockey instruction. The program is held on Saturday morning beginning at 8 am.

Knobby’s Kids is grateful for the support of the St. Clair College Alumni Association that provides an annual grant of $5,000 to cover the cost of ice rental and program insurance. In 2016, the Gary Wilson Foundation made a generous grant of $10,000.

Knobby's Kids will be the proud recipient of proceeds from The Kirk Dame Memorial Golf Tournament on Sunday, August 26th.

Knobby’s continues to flourish under a new team of volunteers, with Marty Kerester and Chris Patten leading the team. For more information about Knobby’s Kids, and to register for the upcoming season, VISIT THE KNOBBY'S KIDS FACEBOOK PAGE.
  


St. Clair College Alumni Association

Jerry’s relationship with St. Clair College grew out of his friendship with John Fairley, long-time VP College Communications and Community Relations.  Jerry and John served on many volunteer boards and committees over the years, and, John looked to Jerry as a mentor.

John was following the news about Knobby’s Kids when he learned they were having trouble raising money to pay for the annual ice rental.  Recognizing the importance of this program to kids wanting to learn how to skate and play hockey, John went to the St. Clair College Alumni Association to seek their annual sponsorship to cover the total cost of the ice rental and insurance for the winter program at Lanspeary Park.

The 2018/2019 marks the 9th anniversary of financial support from the Alumni Association to Knobby’s Kids. 


 William Macri Memorial 4th Watch

William “Bill” Macri began his inspiring career as a paramedic in 1981 post graduation from the Paramedic program (EMCA) at St. Clair College of Applied Arts and Science. Bill ushered in the era of defribrillation and initiation of base hospitals, and with that the advancement of skills and education opportunites for the paramedic, something he was passionate about. He involved himself in every aspect of his profession.

Bill truly loved being a paramedic. He respected the work, the people and most of all the patients and families entrusted to his care. Bill was awarded the Governor General's EMS Exemplary Service medal in 2009. Bill's career ended in July 2013 when his valiant battle with cancer ended and took his life.

He was a great man who displayed honour, courage, dedication, compassion and humility. He considered serving his community and fellow emergency responders as a privilege of the highest order. The William Macri Memorial 4th Watch was established to continue Bill’s commitment to promoting a culture of respect and pride amongst paramedics through education, support, communication and partnerships with other emergency service responders and the community. And, to improve the community’s understanding of this service by connecting people and resource. The Bill Macri Memorial Scholarship has been instituted at St. Clair College to support a student in need who is in the Paramedic Program.

Jerry’s family has selected this as one of the events designated charities in gratitude for the tremendous support, aid, and professionalism extended by paramadics (EMS) to Jerry as they came to his aid many times over the years.

The Hospice of Windsor and Essex County

It is somewhat bittersweet that Jerry’s passing coincides with the retirement of Hospice Executive Director, Carol Derbyshire. In 1979, Jerry and Carol were early recruits to serve on the organizing committee to form the hospice program in Windsor. They formed a life-long friendship as their paths crossed over many committees and organizations. Jerry was always on hand to lend any type of support to Windsor Hospice that was needed to ensure that patients and families would receive compassionate care close to home.

Donations to Hospice will be allocated to the area of greatest need. Should you wish to make a donation to Windsor Hospice, please CLICK HERE then click on the Hospice's "Donate Now" button.

Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation
Jerry raised his family and built his business in Windsor because he thought this was the best place to be. Windsor was obviously good enough to be the center of the auto industry in Canada, so why was the province not investing in its health care? Why was the province making desperately ill people travel to London or Toronto for treatment? When community leaders started talking about building a cancer centre, Jerry became one of its founding members of what is now known as the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre. Quite simple, Windsorites deserved access to compassionate care close to home.

The injury Jerry sustained in the car accident in 1964 continued to plague him his entire life. (He will be the first to admit that he always didn’t follow doctor’s orders.) But when he needed attention at the hospital, he did everything he could to have his care in Windsor.

The family is immensely grateful to the many nurses, doctors, housekeepers, technicians, dietitians - all those that worked hard for Jerry – for their dedication to health care in Windsor.

Donations to the Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation will be designated to the area of greatest need. Should you wish to make a donation to WRHF, please CLICK HERE then review "Ways to Give."

To contribute to our GoFundMe:


Friday, July 20, 2018

Save the Date Press Release

Jerry’s Friends Day

The Slavik family invites Jerry’s friends to a joyous celebration of his life and community.  Everyone who enjoyed Jerry’s company – neighbours, athletes, students, volunteers, coaches, etc. – is welcome to enjoy an afternoon of fun and food, culminating with a spectacular fireworks display.

When:     Saturday, August 25, 2018 (rain or shine)
Time:      5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Where:    University of Windsor, Alumni Field

To sign up to volunteer, post your memories, or make donation, visit:
https://facebook.com/jerrys.friends.a.celebration 
or
https://jerrysfriendsacelebration.blogspot.com

All proceeds from this celebration will benefit the charities closest to Jerry’s heart.

For further press information, please contact Mary Slavik at maryslavik1@gmail.com, or 416-455-9137.

To contribute to our GoFundMe Campaign for this event, Please click this button:




Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Events Schedule and Visitor Information

Jerry’s Friends Day is open to the public.  There is no entrance fee.  Money is being raised for charities that were important to Jerry, so bring your loonies and toonies and help support the great work being done in Windsor and Essex County!
We invite you to bring your own lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the fireworks at approximately 9 pm.  


IMPORTANT NOTICE:
THIS IS AN ALCOHOL-FREE EVENT.  NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES WILL BE ALLOWED INTO THE STADIUM.
Event volunteers reserve the right to check any large bags or picnic baskets.

Thank you to the University of Windsor for providing this wonderful facility, and to the Campus Security, for helping us to manage activity throughout the day.  Please take the time to visit the sponsors page to read the list of sponsors and organizations that have made Jerry’s Friend’s Day possible.

Parking


Using Transit Windsor?


Passport to Fun
  • Entrance is at the stadium ticket gate on College Ave. where each person over the age of 2 will receive one passport.  
  • The passport entitles you to one free item or selected activity while supplies or quantities last. Not all activities require the passport. 
  • Passports are not available in advance of the event.

EVENTS


Activities run from 5 pm to 8 pm. 
Specific times listed are approximate and subject to change.

Jerry’s Memory Lap
Purchase a running bib with your donation and join us at track side, under the balloon arch, as we walk/run one lap in memory of Jerry.  All donations from Jerry’s Memory Lap will go directly to our charity tally.
Fish Pond – Passport activity for 2 – 4 year olds.  (No live fish are involved)
Face Painting & Sport Tattoos – Passport activity for all kids.
Amy's Kids Corner – Passport activity for all kids. A variety of crafts, including feather painting.
Zoo2You Petting Zoo – Open to all!!!
Race the Track – Mini-track event for ages 6 – 10, and 10 – 14. Hosted by the University of Windsor Athletics Club (stay tuned for details)
Shoot the NetTest the speed of your shot. Hosted by Knobby's Kids. Passport activity for all kids. Mini-scrimmage hockey games.  Sticks provided.
Windsor Fire Department – if it’s too hot outside, visit the fire truck and cool down under the fire hose.
The Vulnerable Patient Program - For adults, visit a display to learn all about the special services offered to vulnerable seniors living at home.  For kids, colouring sheets are on hand. Hosted by: EMS & the William E. Macri 4th Watch.
Fitness Breaks – Keep your eye on the stage to participate in short fitness breaks.

*** The Windsor Hospice Wellness Band will serenade everyone from 8 – 9 P.M. ***

50/50 draw – Keep your eye open for 50/50 ticket sellers.  Draw will be held at approx. 8:30 pm.

And be sure not to miss our
Fireworks by K & H!!!



FOOD

We are planning for a very large crowd, however we can only offer items while our quantities last.

Hot dogs and sausages – Your passport entitles you either one hot dog (from Brenners) OR one sausage (from Schinkels). Additional hot dogs or sausages can be purchased for $2 each. While quantities last!

Popcorn – Passport entitles you to one bag of popcorn while quantities last.

Cotton Candy – Passport entitles you to one cotton candy while quantities last.

Water bottles – Passport entitles you to one water bottle while supplies last. Beverages – Culligan Water has donated water stations for this event. We are not offering any other beverage unless sold by a food vendor.

PLEASE NOTE:
We are working to secure additional food vendors that will be cash only. 


Stay tuned for updates! 


We will continue to update this page as new activities are added.