TAMPA, FL – The Tampa Bay Lightning honored Mack Macksam as the Lightning Community Hero this evening during the first period of tonight’s game against the Edmonton Oilers. Macksam, who received a $50,000 donation from the Lightning Foundation and the Lightning Community Hero program, presented by Jabil, will donate the funds to the Veterans Art Center of Tampa Bay. Macksam, a 20-year U.S. Army veteran, retired at USF St. Petersburg before founding the Veterans Art Center of Tampa Bay (VACTB) to provide mental health support, healing and suicide prevention through artistic expression.
The nonprofit fosters educational and creative opportunities for veterans and their families as they transition to civilian life, offering therapeutic outlets, vocational training and public exhibitions honoring their service. His dedication has created a deep-rooted community in Tampa Bay, providing veterans and first responders with individualized support, recovery programs, and a space for healing, maintaining privacy.
Through his leadership, countless veterans have found hope, purpose, and renewed belonging. Macksam became the 619th Lightning Community Hero since the Vinik Family introduced the Lightning Community Hero program during the 2011-12 season, with a $10 million, five-season commitment to the Tampa Bay community. Through tonight’s game, the Lightning Foundation has granted $33.32 million to over 775 unique nonprofits within the Greater Tampa Bay area.
During the summer of 2021, the Vinik Family announced the Community Hero program would continue its commitment with another $10 million through the 2025-26 season. Doug Ostrover, Marc Lipschultz, and their families joined the Vinik Family’s ownership group of the Tampa Bay Lightning back in October 2024, helping to support this program and its lasting impact across the Tampa Bay community.
On the ice, the Lightning secured their season-best sixth straight win, defeating the Oilers 4-1. Key contributions came from Brandon Hagel and Victor Hedman, who scored second-period goals, capitalizing on their strong tactics and teamwork. Nick Paul also contributed significantly, extending the Bolts' lead to 4-1 after scoring on pass from Jake Guentzel.
Meanwhile, the Oilers were struggling, marking their season's worst fourth consecutive loss. The Lightning's victory signifies their growing dominance, as they extend their point streak to eight games, boasting seven wins and one shootout loss.
Andrei Vasilevskiy put on a stellar performance, stopping 23 shots to earn his 27th win of the season. Nikita Kucherov was instrumental, providing two assists. Michael Eyssimont and Nick Paul also chipped in with goals, establishing early control and maintaining pressure throughout the match.
While the Lightning celebrated their impressive win, Leon Draisaitl from the Oilers notched his NHL-best 43rd goal of the season, continuing his point streak to nine games and goal streak to six. Despite his efforts, the Oilers were outshot 14-9 during the first period and struggled to match the Lightning's offensive prowess.
With this dual narrative — one of athletic triumph and steadfast community commitment — the Tampa Bay Lightning not only solidified their presence on the ice but also gave back to the community, emphasizing the importance of supporting veterans and addressing mental health through Macksam’s initiative. The franchise's involvement through the Community Hero program remains pivotal, ensuring lasting impacts on those they support within the Tampa Bay area.