It figures that the one game I miss – I do not get to see the best game that they have played in years and years and years.

Just my luck.

There was just about NO issues with any aspect of the team….

There has been a lot of coverage on it – I will let that speak for itself – I have nothing to add.

Last night – Garth Snow was at the Booster Club meeting.  He is one funny dude!

Some thoughts on his comments:

Kovalchuk – a non-issue.  He is quite happy with the complexion of this team, and I do not feel that he will allow anyone to be moved.

That is – except Marty Biron.

Garth said that he is one total class individual – and has been nothing but professional throughout this process.  Marty knew this could happen from the start, and just wants a shot.  But he will do whatever is asked and expected, until the time comes that he is not here anymore.  That is just what is expected from a ‘gentleman’ like Marty.  You just have to root for this guy, wherever he goes.

He is quite happy with the maturation process of some of the Bridgeport folks, especially Mark Katic (an AHL all-star) and Mark Martin (the next “POWER” forward for this team).  Also – Justin Debenetto has opened some eyes too.

Very impressed with Andrew MacDonald, and how he has stepped up.

Thought Kyle should have been on the Olympic Team (however, he is opposed to the Olympics for the NHL players… why should there be 20 days off in February – and the schedule be so condensed).

Quite pleased with the progress of Josh Bailey, and the surprise of Matt Moulson.  He (Garth) said he likes to keep a roster spot open for someone that makes a splash in camp, and Matt was just that.

One thing about Garth – is that he is not a stuffed suit.  He is quite casual, quite funny, and talks about his team from the heart.  With the ‘serious’ nature of certain NHL folk, he is a breath of fresh air.  I am so happy that he is slowly starting to prove the pundits that thought he would be a washout, as wrong as can be.

Keep it up, sir!

Posted under Islanders 07-08

I am sure that Islander fans are so disappointed that we were not able to sign Todd Bertuzzi to make a magical return to Long Island.

Yea – right.

This was the genius that said at a Booster Club meeting in 1997 or so, that when a member asked Todd about what he wanted to do after hockey; he replied:

What do I care? I am only 22

He is what you call a real man of Genius….. Good luck Detroit – you can HAVE HIM!

Posted under Islanders 09-10, Ramblings

Those words in a ‘formal’ meeting that usually get you moving faster towards the door.

However, in Hockey fan terminology, that would be nothing but August. No news in hokey land. (At least in Islander country). Tickets went on sale – but not a lot showed. Hopefully its the weather. I would not want to be cooped up inside, with that beautiful day that Saturday was.

Some other news. Prospal to the Rangers – 1 yr 1.1M. Has prior knowledge of Mr. Tortorella. That may help, but he is nothing but a PP specialist, that does not provide much else. Whatever….

Mark Messier – has a “GAL FRIDAY” job now – to get coffee and donuts for Glen Sather. Come on – you now his pictures in your mind of Mess in a skirt and high heels? Now before I get brow-beaten by folks from the other side of the New York hockey world… It is only for humor, and I understand that #11 wants to get the ‘business’ side of the game. Actually, I thought he should have been taken care of LONG BEFORE this. But that’s my opinion — and come on – Bad head, and 6″ stiletto’s? It gets you thinking.

Well – we are under 30 days to camp – that’s at least good news.

God – I still have images of the David Wright facial the other day – that hurts so much. Don’t speed up his return. Give him all the time he needs. It is not that Met fans are going to be purchasing playoff tickets anytime soon.

My Everton football season started, and thank GOD I was out of the house and unable to see the game, as it was on Fox Soccer Channel. 6-1 to Arsenal at home, and the lone goal was in the 90th? Uggh! I hope that this is the worst game of the year, and it is overwith real fast. Not the way to start the season, boys… We can do MUCH better.

Back from Vegas and the NHL Booster Club Convention – what a great time. If you want to see LOTS of pictures, check out my facebook page. And while we are on it – check out www.bluelinetalkradio.com, and Millian’s weekly show. A lot of great hockey talk, a lot of fun and frivolity, with a guy who REALLY loves the game. You have a lot of ‘talkers’ that can talk the game, but are not as ‘in love with the game’ as Millian is. I totally recommend listening to him, and listen to his 10 point DOCTRINE of hockey. It will get your blood going, and make you want to storm Gary Bettman’s office, wanting justice!

Well – have a good day. As the days get closer to camp – I will talk more… Have a great day!

Posted under Cool A-C League, Islanders 09-10, Mets 09, Ramblings, UK Football

But not all – I did ok. Actually my wife did better than I did!

Just came back from the National Hockey League Booster Club Convention. For the 21st straight year, I attended this August week-long hockey love fest. This year, about 200 Boosters from around the NHL, from the US, Canada, and the UK, were in Vegas to talk about their love for the game, and in many cases, each other.

People go to this convention, representing their favorite team, but in this case, there is no heated rivalries. Ranger fans and Islander fans in this organization do get along (I mean that!). We talk about our teams, and what the Booster/Fan Clubs have done this year. But mostly, it is a social organization.

Usually, a club hosts the convention in their own home city. However, the Detroit For’em Club, the hosts, decided to put the week in Sin City. What a great choice. I have been to Vegas before, but this week was real nice. Got to visit the old Strip (Fremont Street), as well as hit nearly a half dozen other casinos on Las Vegas Blvd. We got to have a nice dinner cruise around Lake Mead, other went to Red Rock, and the Hoover Dam. It was a lot of fun.

The weekend has “Theme Nights”. Friday, was Elvis night, where folks dressed in Elvis or 50′s and 60′s outfits. I had my peace sign t-shirt (I keep simple). On Saturday, it was DISCO Night, where there were John Travolta look-alikes, and bell-bottoms all over the place. In keeping with my musical habits, I had a DISCO SUCKS T-shirt. It was more than a shirt – it was a real feeling!

It was great to meet new folks, and see old friends. This convention has allowed me, along with thousands of others, to know that if they go to a game in foreign territory, there is always someone you know, and can get together and have a good time. If you are a member of a fan or Booster Club of an NHL team, you owe it to yourself to join a club, and come to a convention. I did it on a whim in 1989, and this was my 21st consecutive year to go. I do not regret one second of it!

Also – a special hello to Millian – the host of the Blue Line Hockey Talk Radio Show. An Internet based hockey show, based out of Vegas, Millian, the host, was at the convention this weekend, and got to talk to him. He is a real nice guy, and loves the game tremendously. I hope you get a chance to listen, and become a follower. His web address is: www.BlueLineTalkRadio.com. Check it out, won’t ya?

Oh yea – Everton Football starts this weekend, so if you want to get on my good side, support the Toffees! See ya,

Gary

Posted under Booster Club, Ramblings, UK Football

Tuesday is an extremely important day in Islanders country. In fact, I think even more than winning Cups! (sorry to the Old Timers and Cup Philosophers).

The Lighthouse Project, as eloquently explained, by Chris Botta today, on his Islanders Point Blank site, is the one thing that an Islander fan has to keep attention to. Not Tavares, Bailey, Okposo, or any of the players. Not even what place we expect the team to finish this season.

The Lighthouse – is the WORD!

Tuesday is the walk from the Coliseum to Hofstra to the meeting, which will start at 9:30. To me, I so wish I could be back sitting the Adams playhouse, at me alma mater, cheering on the movement of this great project. Work would absolutely prohibit me from taking that day. The next day, I also leave for Vegas and my annual trip to the NHL Booster Club Convention. I would be so glad to tell the fans of the rest of the NHL’s teams, that we are looking ahead, with a new project, a renovated Coliseum, and the Islanders playing for may years to come on the Island I call home.

As Mr. Botta said on his video, do what you have to do to support the project. Send an e-mail – convince another to come to the meeting, make signs (tasteful, of course), do whatever you can do – to show your support of this. Charles Wang made it perfectly clear, this organization needs the go-ahead to move on – or it will be other options (that will just not be discussed here). So – it is up to us, and make sure that we get this going.

I also hear the Senor Bettman will be there. I know that he is a total supporter of this, and can add some more ammo. It seems like Ms. Murray has been more in tune with this, rather than against. Let’s hope she stays the same way. Hopefully, she does not bring her neighbor, Joe Mondello. Hey Joe – how about sleeping in on Tuesday. Lose the car keys, and forget about this. We do NOT want your mouth there. Disgrace to the political party that I belong to…..

Anyway, let’s take the advice, of the Swami of the Islanders (yes Chris, I used BD’s picture and I think you are a Carnack, and deservedly so!), and get on the support train of the Lighthouse Project. As I stated, I can not be there, but hopefully this blog entry gets you to come out on Tuesday, and show the hockey and the political world, that the Islanders are to STAY, and yes, Kansas City, STAY ON LONG ISLAND!

Posted under Islanders 09-10, Lighthouse, Ramblings

Yes – that Reality TV Star – Richard “SHAKEY” Krouse will be attending the next booster club meeting on Monday night at the Long Island Marriott. The meeting will begin at 7:30 PM. If you are coming to the meeting, please bring some Liquid Detergent. This is our monthly charity item, that is going to the Long Island Chapter of Ronald MacDonald house. Now – that is a great cause, so dont forget the liquid!

Shakey was a great guest last season. He did a “SHOW AND TELL” with some equipment, including Ricky’s mask and pads, among other things.

BTW – I will not be live blogging tonight – but I will get some quotes after the game, and have a page for that.

Let’s get those FLYERS TONIGHT!

GH

PS – for all you Sheffield Steelers fans – they won 8-3 in their first game of a two leg series against the Edinburgh Capitals. Game 2 is tonight in Scotland. Game time is 3:00 our time. If you go to the Sheffield Steelers web site, you can actually see the game on a PPV basis. Go check them out, won’t ya!

Posted under Blog Box, Booster Club, Islanders 08-09

Unfortunately, I can not – due to work, but if you can be there – please do.

This should be interesting to hear about the T.O.H. issue – and an good news that may come up.

So – if you can make it – be there for me – and let me know your feelings about what happened.

Also – there was supposed to be a Booster Club meeting on Monday the 30th – but has since been cancelled due to the fact that the Islanders were unable to secure us a guest for that date. The club is trying to come up with an alternative solution. Please stay tuned for any new updates.
Thanks,

Gary

Posted under Booster Club, Lighthouse

I just did not want to type last night after the game. Was a little disappointed in the result, and was enjoying a nice quiet night with my wife.

Thoughts from the game, and the weekend.

1. Scotiabank place is probably one of the nicest arena that I have been to. There are lots of food options, and a 50/50 draw that the winner won nearly $14,000… That is sick!

2. Ottawa fans are probably the nicest fans that we have encountered on our trips. Even with my wearing a Yashin jersey (will explain that shortly), the fans were cool.

3. Danis just did not have it last night. The first and the last goals definitely go into the category of “I want it back”. He has done so much in his progression this season, that a hiccup will happen.

4. The forwards just did not have the buzz that they showed on Friday against Carolina. Is it the back-to-back syndrome? Usually this team, as many struggles that we have had, have always done well on the back end of the 2 in 2 games.

5. Okposo keeps getting points, which hopefully will lead to at least a little consideration for R.O.Y.

6. Even with the loss, I am sure that Josh Bailey will remember this game for a long time to come. His 2 goal effort was one of the lone bright spots of the game.

7. Canadian beer is so much better when it is consumed NORTH of the border.

8. Downtown Ottawa is a real nice place to shop, dine and hang out. Again – the people are quite friendly and I really suggest that if you ever want to come to a game in Canada – this is the place to be.

9. My three stars of the game.
3. Joel Rechlicz – was trying to do his best Steve Webb impersonation – hitting everything in sight – getting in a fight with Chris Neil
2. Kyle Okposo – one helper – not his strongest effort, but good players will still get involved in the scoring even when they are not at 100%
1. Josh Bailey – two goals and looked much more mature and focused.

Well – time to turn off the computer – as we are going for breakfast at our hotel before the bus ride home.

Have a good day!
Gary

Posted under Booster Club, Islanders 08-09

It has been a tough week for me…

Workload – long and tedious, but challenging and got through pretty good.

My mom’s condition has been level, but far from good. There were some issues that really got me very emotional. Too difficult to talk about here, but thanks for the support.

Anyway – the annual Booster Club trip is upon us. We leave from the Coliseum tonight around midnight – bussing through the night, arriving in Ottawa around 10:00 AM or so. We are staying downtown, and will be hanging around the hotel and downtown before we schlep the 30 minutes to Kanata for the game at Scotiabank Place.

I will be taking pictures of the ORANGE WAVE (our group) and will have them on a photobucket site for viewing on Sunday. I have told the radio and TV guys that we will be at the game, and we hope to be on TV too.

Keep checking the site for notes and things from the trip.

See you in Canada, eh?

Posted under Booster Club, Islanders 08-09, Ramblings

Got to the box late, so did not get to see warmup. Sutton out, Hillen in and shockingly, so is Richard Park. But he is -5, and the worst on the squad. ** SCRATCH THAT – Park is laying. Strike 1 to Roger Luce.

BTW – Booster Club note – next meeting is 11/19 at the Long Island Marriott, guest will be Kyle Okposo.

Chad Larose just beat Ricky like a rented mule when Pock failed to clear a puck out of the zone. Looked like he either surprised him, or his legs are just not quick. Less than a minute later a scrum in front of Ricky, and the play under review. – NO GOAL.

Last few minutes – the team has played with a little more passion. We (the blog boxers) are having a over under on how many times the team takes shots from the outside. I say 18, and I have heard 27 and 36.

Freddy Meyer trying out for the WWE with a headlock and take down of Eric Staal.

And Ricky just blew another one, this time off the face off. If this continues – there will be about 500 people here by the time the game is over.

Carolina took a penalty – Cam Moore for handling the puck outside the trapezoid. See if the PP takes advantage and make plays. Well – uh – no. Two shots, but nothing much.

So far – 3 outside shots out of 8.

Okposo on the PP had a golden opportunity in front of awide open net, and had a brain fart…. Needless to say, the fans were not happy.

Streit just saved us from three by getting in front of a wide open net to the left of DP.

Going to sit the 2nd back in section 317. Hopefully the third period will be better (and the 2nd too).

2nd period analysis – Ricky out – looked like he may have ‘tweaked’ himself at the end of period 1. McDonald was left to dry by Freddy Meyer makking a lousy pass towards Mark Streit. The goal by him made the crowd a little happy.

They have 38 shots in 2 period (21 in period 2). The effort is much better, but the thoughts from the crowd (I sat in 317 this period), is so negative, it kills me. Right now – this team needs a shot off someones arse an in the net. Definitely a little bit of luck is needed…

Third Period

Great SHG by Bergenheim. Meyer and Bergie on a two on one – Bergie with a fantastic deke beating Ward to cut it to one.

This team is looking the way it is supposed to. But right away, Bayda got one past MacDonald to bring the deficit back to two. Just when you get the crowd going, splat. Back to the negativity.

Another PP – and another chance to get the crowd back into the game. Brandon Sutter was absolutely clocked by Doug Weight. Absolutely clean hit, but Carolina stood up for their guy. Both team’s trainers were out right away… Hope he is ok. He got up on his own power, but you will not see him in a game for a while.

Important PP now – Isles at 50 shots. Streit on the PP – 4-3. Wow – this is going to be a game,folks. What a blast. Now we know why the PP in Montreal is missing him!

Will blog the three stars, and locker room stuff tomorrow.

Thanks for reading!

Posted under Blog Box, Islanders 08-09