By Al Cohen
Philadelphia Phantoms Correspondent

The Philadelphia Phantoms of the American Hockey League are proud to announce a new fund-raising endeavor for Big Brothers Big Sisters that will allow hundreds of children and their BBBS mentors to attend a Phantoms game together at the end of the 2004-05 season.

From now through April 3, Phantoms sales executives will end each phone transaction by asking fans for a voluntary $1 donation to benefit the Big Brothers Big Sisters End of the Year Celebration. The same will occur following Phantoms ticket purchases at the Wachovia Complex box offices.

The money donated by Phantoms fans throughout the season will then go toward the Big Brothers Big Sisters End of the Year Celebration, which will take place at the team's home finale on Sunday, April 17. There, Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteers from all across the Delaware Valley and their "Littles" will get to attend this special event together.

"Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring has consistently proven to have a positive impact on the Little Brothers and Little Sisters enrolled in our programs, and the time that our Bigs spend with their Littles is the reason for the positive impact," said Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern PA CEO Marlene L. Olshan. "We are delighted that the Phantoms are providing a great opportunity for our Bigs and Littles to spend time together at this very special Phantoms game."

Each year, Big Brothers Big Sisters helps volunteer mentors bring a little magic to the lives of thousands of children in the Philadelphia region. Whether they are working on homework, sharing a water ice, or watching movies, these volunteers are helping their Little Brothers and Little Sisters to have fun and to grow up to become caring and confident adults. For more information, visit www.bbbssepa.org or call 215-790-9200.

The Phantoms kick off their 2004-05 season on Saturday, Oct. 16 in Hartford, while the team's home opener is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 22 vs. Hamilton. To place a deposit on a game plan or season tickets, please call 215-465-4522, or log on to www.phantomshockey.com.