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Service Alberta Minister Brian Malkinson said Thursday he is quite happy with the way the program has gone.

“Albertans are very passionate about hockey, so it was exciting to see Albertans showing pride for their favourite team,” he said.

“There’s been over $247,000 that’s gone to these teams’ charitable foundations. Both the Flames and Oilers charities do great work, so I know they are excited about the funding.”

Malkinson said some other organizations have approached the province about a potential expansion of the plate program, something he said the province is open to.

“I think this (program) shows there’s a desire from Albertans to have different licence plate options and . . . support other charities,” he said.

The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation thanked the fans for supporting the group through the program.

“The proceeds from the licence plates will be used to help the Oilers Foundation pursue its goal of helping build strong, vibrant and safe communities,” said Natalie Minckler, executive director of the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation.

“We are excited to continue our partnership with the Government of Alberta on this initiative and continue to raise funds to help change lives in our community.”

The same sentiment was echoed by the Flames.

“We have been pleased with the partnership with the Government of Alberta on the specialty licence plates program,” said Peter Hanlon, vice-president of communications for the Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corp.

“The proceeds raised to date by this initiative will be beneficial to numerous charitable and other organizations based in southern Alberta. As the excitement for Flames fans continues down the stretch of the regular season, we anticipate that the support of the program will grow even stronger.”

For more information on the plates program, visit www.alberta.ca/licence-plates.aspx.