Window makers to face off in hockey game

An international hockey battle between two window manufacturers is scheduled for Jan. 12, when employees of Marvin Windows and Doors and Loewen Windows will play a game at the Olympic Arena in Warroad, Minn. The event will be refereed by Dave Christian, an NHL All-Star and 1980 Olympic gold medal “Miracle on Ice” team member.

About 90 miles separate Warroad, where Marvin is headquartered, and Steinbach, Manitoba, the hometown of Loewen. A group of Loewen employees will make the trip south to help inaugurate Warroad’s newly remodeled Olympic Arena. The game begins at 4:30 p.m.

There is no charge for admission to the game, but donations will be accepted to raise funds for new tables and seating in the arena lobby. Concession sales at the event also will go toward lobby furnishings, and there will be a raffle of VIP hockey gear and other items.

“We’re happy to invite our friends from Loewen to Warroad, to show them how we play hockey in Minnesota,” said Paul Marvin, director of materials for Marvin Windows and Doors. “All kidding aside, these are two great companies that share a northern heritage and a love of winter sports that crosses national borders. We’ll have players from just about every department and every age range. 

“It will be a fun event to raise money for a worthy cause -- and one team will go home with some friendly bragging rights,” Marvin said, adding that there are already plans for a rematch in March on Loewen’s turf.

Despite being a Warroad native, Minnesota hockey legend Christian will be able to referee the game without favoritism, according to the announcement. As quality manager of Cardinal Glass in Fargo, N.D., Christian produces insulated window glass used in both Marvin and Loewen products.

Marvin plant manager and 40-year employee Ron Lund has signed on to manage and coach the Warroad squad.