Solar Bears Chairman Joe Haleski named finalist for Orlando 2014 Downtowner of the Year

Downtown Orlando Partnership announced winners at Golden Brick Awards

ORLANDO, Fla. - Orlando Solar Bears Chairman Joe Haleski was named a finalist for the "2014 Downtowner of the Year" at the Downtown Orlando Partnership (DOP) Golden Brick Awards on Wednesday, February 25, at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

"Joe has a proven track record when it comes to business. He had a long and successful career before helping bring the Solar Bears out of hibernation. This revival was an integral part of our success at creating a hub for professional sports in Downtown," said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. "What truly stood out to this committee was his dedication to community service and charitable endeavors. He and his wife Kate established the Haleski Foundation as a way for their entire family to develop a long term giving plan that approaches donating to charities and non-profit organizations in a more thoughtful manner. Bringing the excitement and energy of the Solar Bears to the children's hospital Florida Hospital is just one example of the life-changing impact they are having here in Orlando."

The Annual Golden Brick Awards recognizes community development projects that have positively impacted the Downtown Orlando area. Over 50 projects were recognized at the sold-out event.

Orlando Solar Bears Single Game Tickets for the regular season are on sale now! Click here to purchase tickets.

The Orlando Solar Bears, the ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs and AHL's Toronto Marlies, play all of their home games at the 2012 Street and Smith's Sports Business Journal Sports Facility of the Year, the Amway Center.

Follow the Solar Bears at www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com, Facebook, and Twitter(@OrlandoHockey) for all the latest news and updates. Stay in touch with Shades on Instagram by following ShadestheSolarBear.

Group tickets are a great way to entertain employees, co-workers, clients, friends and family. For more information on discounted group tickets and a list of group benefits, call 407-951-8200 or visit www.orlandosolarbearshockey.com/groups.

Officially licensed Orlando Solar Bears replica team jerseys, apparel, and headwear can be purchased online at:   http://store.orlandosolarbearshockey.com/

Since beginning operations in November of 2011, the Solar Bears and their fans have helped raise over $1,000,000 for the Central Florida community. To read the Solar Bears Report to the Community, click here.