PalmoThis came in my email today. Check out Tyler's ugly uniform.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Former Sioux Hockey Player Tyler Palmiscino.
PalmoThis came in my email today. Check out Tyler's ugly uniform.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Goon’s Ramblings 09-12-2006.
Student Behavior at Sporting Events
There seems to be a reoccurring theme appearing on college campuses nationwide, as the college sports season kicks off. There is a big focus on college campuses by school administrations on what to do about student behavior, antics and cheers at college sporting events. The University of North Dakota is not at all immune from this issue. Last season the UND athletic director Tom Bunning held forums at Engelstad Arena before the hockey season to discuss on what is expected from its students body as far as student behavior, and what type of language that is acceptable and not acceptable while attending University of North Dakota sporting events. The issue has also been discussed in great lengths on Siouxsports.com as well. The debate has been fast and furious. Some students have claimed that their first amendment rights are being trampled upon by heavy handed college administrations. On the flip side of the issue some older fans are tired of hearing profanity laced cheers coming from the student sections at college sporting events.
BU to Clean Up Student Language at Sporting Events
So fast forward to the present, Boston University Administration is trying to clean up it’s student’s language at sporting events. Dean of students Kenneth Elmore told The Boston Globe the school adopted the no-swearing policy after numerous complaints about profane language during hockey games.
BU Administration to control students behavior I guess the BU administration is not happy about the F’em up BC sucks cheer.
BU Video
Drop the puck addresses the issue in his blog: Check out DTP's article on the issue.
Are Profanity Laced Cheers Protected Under the First Amendment?
One question seems to come up all the time. Are profanity laced cheers protected under the first amendment? Do students have the right to say what ever they want during sporting events. The answer is no. The United States Supreme Court ruled against the students in such a case.
This isn’t an isolated issue, its happening all over the place. It’s also was an issue in Michigan few years back. Here is a link to the Albion student newspaper.
Another Example
Stay tuned this issue will not go away and its only going to grow as football, hockey and basketball season begin around the nation.
Goon’s Perspective on Profanity at Sporting Events
I am not going to take the high road on this as say that all profanity is bad, but I would not condone using F’bombs in cheers at sporting events where children where hear it, and they have in the past at the REA. Minor profanity such as the S’bombs may have a place sporting events, but they just may just barely skirt the line of unacceptable behavior.
As you know I think the officiating in the WCHA is horrible and most of the officials in this league don’t deserve the paychecks they get for the officiating they do. I personally don’t object to the fans giving the refs like Don Adam the bullshit cheer when he screws up yet another game. I do however think cheers (linked up above) like the F’em up B.C. sucks cheer is a vile and vulgar, plus it has no place in a hockey arena. To the morons like Kendall Lyons that say their right are being trampled on by their school’s administration need to get a clue, obscenities are not protected under the first amendment Lastly students like Lyons need to grow up and join the adult world. Just because you are a college student doesn’t give you the right to act like a dolt. You also sound like an idiot when you say things like that. Your also bringing unneeded focus to your university.
There seems to be a reoccurring theme appearing on college campuses nationwide, as the college sports season kicks off. There is a big focus on college campuses by school administrations on what to do about student behavior, antics and cheers at college sporting events. The University of North Dakota is not at all immune from this issue. Last season the UND athletic director Tom Bunning held forums at Engelstad Arena before the hockey season to discuss on what is expected from its students body as far as student behavior, and what type of language that is acceptable and not acceptable while attending University of North Dakota sporting events. The issue has also been discussed in great lengths on Siouxsports.com as well. The debate has been fast and furious. Some students have claimed that their first amendment rights are being trampled upon by heavy handed college administrations. On the flip side of the issue some older fans are tired of hearing profanity laced cheers coming from the student sections at college sporting events.
BU to Clean Up Student Language at Sporting Events
So fast forward to the present, Boston University Administration is trying to clean up it’s student’s language at sporting events. Dean of students Kenneth Elmore told The Boston Globe the school adopted the no-swearing policy after numerous complaints about profane language during hockey games.
BU Administration to control students behavior I guess the BU administration is not happy about the F’em up BC sucks cheer.
BU Video
Drop the puck addresses the issue in his blog: Check out DTP's article on the issue.
Are Profanity Laced Cheers Protected Under the First Amendment?
One question seems to come up all the time. Are profanity laced cheers protected under the first amendment? Do students have the right to say what ever they want during sporting events. The answer is no. The United States Supreme Court ruled against the students in such a case.
In more recent Supreme Court cases (Bethel School District v. Fraser in 1986 and Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier in 1988), the majority ruled that in the case of obscene speech, school authorities may discipline the perpetrator because the school has a right to control the manner of the speech if not the political content. Furthermore, in Hazelwood, the Court ruled that in curricular-based productions like an official school newspaper, school authorities have the right to regulate content in "any reasonable manner," taking into account the maturity of the audience and the reasonable desire to proscribe any student speech advocating use of drugs or alcohol, irresponsible sex, or improper conduct. Thus, school officials are given considerable discretion over the content of school-sponsored publications and performances.
This isn’t an isolated issue, its happening all over the place. It’s also was an issue in Michigan few years back. Here is a link to the Albion student newspaper.
Another Example
A similar issue arose at Albion last year during the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) men’s basketball tournament. A group of Albion students chanted “F---Hope, F--- Calvin,” as fans from the two schools left Kresge Gymnasium after their semifinal game. Just like Williams, President Peter Mitchell addressed the crowd before the championship game against Hope a few days later, apologizing to the Hope crowd. Mitchell also sent an email to the entire student body, stating: “I expect the highest standard of conduct from our fans.”
Do fans have an unlimited right of speech, or is it an administration’s responsibility to limit what can and cannot be said?
Bruce Weaver, professor of speech communication, has taught a free speech class for the past 12 years and feels that free speech in general, let alone at sporting events, is never absolute.
“To assume that we can do whatever we want, whenever we want, is ridiculous,” Weaver said. “Keep in mind that free speech is speech in the public domain. If you are attending a public event, part of attending is to keep in mind that you will be held within some sort of behavioral norm
Stay tuned this issue will not go away and its only going to grow as football, hockey and basketball season begin around the nation.
Goon’s Perspective on Profanity at Sporting Events
I am not going to take the high road on this as say that all profanity is bad, but I would not condone using F’bombs in cheers at sporting events where children where hear it, and they have in the past at the REA. Minor profanity such as the S’bombs may have a place sporting events, but they just may just barely skirt the line of unacceptable behavior.
As you know I think the officiating in the WCHA is horrible and most of the officials in this league don’t deserve the paychecks they get for the officiating they do. I personally don’t object to the fans giving the refs like Don Adam the bullshit cheer when he screws up yet another game. I do however think cheers (linked up above) like the F’em up B.C. sucks cheer is a vile and vulgar, plus it has no place in a hockey arena. To the morons like Kendall Lyons that say their right are being trampled on by their school’s administration need to get a clue, obscenities are not protected under the first amendment Lastly students like Lyons need to grow up and join the adult world. Just because you are a college student doesn’t give you the right to act like a dolt. You also sound like an idiot when you say things like that. Your also bringing unneeded focus to your university.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
The Goon's Pre-Season WCHA predictions.
Updated Version II
Projected Final League Standing
1. Minnesota
2. North Dakota
3. Denver
4. Wisconsin
5. Colorado College
6. Minnesota-Duluth
6. St. Cloud
8. Minnesota State
9. Michigan Tech
10. Alaska-Anchorage
Explaining The Goon’s Picks
These are the Goon's pre-season favorites for the WCHA. Here is my reasoning for picking the Golden Gophers for the number one position.
You might as well hand the Gophers the McNaughten Cup. Yes, I am very well aware of the fact that Kellen Briggs and Jeff Frazee are the goaltenders for the University of Minnesota, it’s obvious that these two mediocre goaltenders come no where near the level of all world goaltenders Brian Elliot and Bobby Goepfert, nor in my opinion are they as good as much maligned Sioux goal tender Phil Lamoureux. However, I digress. I still think the Gophers can be a number one team based on their offensive capabilities alone. Minnesota has many weapons at their disposal. This is not a team that you are going to want to take penalties against. If you take stupid penalties the Gophers are going to bury you.
Finally, Kyle Okposo and Erik Johnson are awesome, and much coveted hockey players, lets make no mistake about it. You would be kidding yourself if you thought otherwise. Even though it kills me I have to give Donny Lucia props for recruiting these guys. Okposo (nick name KO) and Johnson are world-class players. E.J. was wooed by St Louis to sign a pro contract and probably could have played for the Blues in the NHL this season. In fact I am sure there were many of us were hoping this was going to be the case, I know I was. Of course it didn’t happen and now the rest of the league is going to fear his wrath. The hockey pundits on NHL Home Ice said he would never play for the University of Minnesota.
Lastly, Erik Johnson is a freak of nature (that is a good thing) a man among boys and will be crushing opposition players as they approach the University of Minnesota Net. WCHA fans will be cheering his departure after this season, I know I will be for sure. Eric Johnson has been referred to as the next Chris Pronger. So no doubt these guys are great players. I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that we will probably be seeing these two guys in the NHL very soon, if not next season.
Kessel Factor
Due to the fact that UND fans have been said to have Kessel obsession, much like the Gophers fans had Parise obsession a few years back. I can’t close this article out without at least talking about Phil the thrill for just a little bit. There has been much debate whether or not Phil Kessel was a cancer in the Gopher locker room, I am thinking he might have been., Who cares right? I have had an unnamed source tell me that in fact Phil was a disruptive force in the locker room last season. Now that Kessel has left the Golden Gophers we can all move on. I think the Gophers are actually are a better team without Phil. I am also glad that the Boston Bruins will now get better with Phil the Thrill in the line up, Yes I am a rabid Bruins fan, its pretty well documented.
Now that the B’s have signed Phil Kessel to a professional contract, Phil Kessel is being projected by many in the print media as a potential second line forward for the Boston Bruins. Seriously I think they are right. In my opinion Kessel has all the tools to be a top players and I think he would really look good next to Marc Savage and Glen Murray. Talk about a line that could scoot. I can only dream of the number of goals this potential line could score this season. Should we say I am thinking somewhere in the neighborhood of about 120 goals on that line. Don’t worry about Phil Kessel being a cancer or not being very media savvy, the Bruins management will get him on the right track. Let hope Phil Kessel says all of the right things. If he does not the Boston Media will eat him alive. This preseason Kessel will be wearing number 81. I wonder if they will be a big seller in Minneapolis.
The Huskies
Listen Up Huskie fan. Contrary to some of your fans: Your SCSU Huskies will not finish in the top three in the WCHA standing., You can mark it down some where. Lets give credit where credit is due, your incoming recruiting class looks awesome, there is no doubt about it. However, the WCHA is an upper classmen league and frankly your cupboard is bare. The SCSU Huskies are still two years away from making noise in this league. Bob Motzko is a great coach but there still isn’t enough talent on this team to make a run at the top spot. I think there is a chance your makes the playoffs I think the WCHA can put 5-6 teams in the big dance this season.
Hammy from the Gopher Hockey Blog Sums it up Best
Hammy's Blog
In Conclusion
SCSU will not finish in the Top three like some are predicting, however, they will make some noise. Frankly, SCSU does not have the talent that Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Denver or Duluth have.
Projected Final League Standing
1. Minnesota
2. North Dakota
3. Denver
4. Wisconsin
5. Colorado College
6. Minnesota-Duluth
6. St. Cloud
8. Minnesota State
9. Michigan Tech
10. Alaska-Anchorage
Explaining The Goon’s Picks
These are the Goon's pre-season favorites for the WCHA. Here is my reasoning for picking the Golden Gophers for the number one position.
You might as well hand the Gophers the McNaughten Cup. Yes, I am very well aware of the fact that Kellen Briggs and Jeff Frazee are the goaltenders for the University of Minnesota, it’s obvious that these two mediocre goaltenders come no where near the level of all world goaltenders Brian Elliot and Bobby Goepfert, nor in my opinion are they as good as much maligned Sioux goal tender Phil Lamoureux. However, I digress. I still think the Gophers can be a number one team based on their offensive capabilities alone. Minnesota has many weapons at their disposal. This is not a team that you are going to want to take penalties against. If you take stupid penalties the Gophers are going to bury you.
Finally, Kyle Okposo and Erik Johnson are awesome, and much coveted hockey players, lets make no mistake about it. You would be kidding yourself if you thought otherwise. Even though it kills me I have to give Donny Lucia props for recruiting these guys. Okposo (nick name KO) and Johnson are world-class players. E.J. was wooed by St Louis to sign a pro contract and probably could have played for the Blues in the NHL this season. In fact I am sure there were many of us were hoping this was going to be the case, I know I was. Of course it didn’t happen and now the rest of the league is going to fear his wrath. The hockey pundits on NHL Home Ice said he would never play for the University of Minnesota.
Lastly, Erik Johnson is a freak of nature (that is a good thing) a man among boys and will be crushing opposition players as they approach the University of Minnesota Net. WCHA fans will be cheering his departure after this season, I know I will be for sure. Eric Johnson has been referred to as the next Chris Pronger. So no doubt these guys are great players. I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that we will probably be seeing these two guys in the NHL very soon, if not next season.
Kessel Factor
Due to the fact that UND fans have been said to have Kessel obsession, much like the Gophers fans had Parise obsession a few years back. I can’t close this article out without at least talking about Phil the thrill for just a little bit. There has been much debate whether or not Phil Kessel was a cancer in the Gopher locker room, I am thinking he might have been., Who cares right? I have had an unnamed source tell me that in fact Phil was a disruptive force in the locker room last season. Now that Kessel has left the Golden Gophers we can all move on. I think the Gophers are actually are a better team without Phil. I am also glad that the Boston Bruins will now get better with Phil the Thrill in the line up, Yes I am a rabid Bruins fan, its pretty well documented.
Now that the B’s have signed Phil Kessel to a professional contract, Phil Kessel is being projected by many in the print media as a potential second line forward for the Boston Bruins. Seriously I think they are right. In my opinion Kessel has all the tools to be a top players and I think he would really look good next to Marc Savage and Glen Murray. Talk about a line that could scoot. I can only dream of the number of goals this potential line could score this season. Should we say I am thinking somewhere in the neighborhood of about 120 goals on that line. Don’t worry about Phil Kessel being a cancer or not being very media savvy, the Bruins management will get him on the right track. Let hope Phil Kessel says all of the right things. If he does not the Boston Media will eat him alive. This preseason Kessel will be wearing number 81. I wonder if they will be a big seller in Minneapolis.
The Huskies
Listen Up Huskie fan. Contrary to some of your fans: Your SCSU Huskies will not finish in the top three in the WCHA standing., You can mark it down some where. Lets give credit where credit is due, your incoming recruiting class looks awesome, there is no doubt about it. However, the WCHA is an upper classmen league and frankly your cupboard is bare. The SCSU Huskies are still two years away from making noise in this league. Bob Motzko is a great coach but there still isn’t enough talent on this team to make a run at the top spot. I think there is a chance your makes the playoffs I think the WCHA can put 5-6 teams in the big dance this season.
Hammy from the Gopher Hockey Blog Sums it up Best
Hammy's Blog
I think you tend to play the underdog/no respect card way too much. First of all, it really doesn't matter what people on this board say in terms of giving respect or where they rate your team. The people on this board don't suit up against SCSU so the lack of respect card that you use in referring to how people on here rate them is way overplayed. (btw, my early (and worthless) prognostication has them at #3)
Second, I think SCSU earned enough respect last year that teams won't take them lightly this year. SCSU may not have as high a talent level as half of the teams in the league but teams know SCSU has a good goalie that can keep them in games (and a solid defense returning) so SCSU opponents are unlikely to take a lackluster attitude against them. SCSU had somewhat of a luxury last year of being taken more lightly and flying under the radar for much of the year because of their multi year slump under Dahl. But I highly doubt that is going to happen this year. You seem to gloss over the fact that the competition is probably going to ratchet it up a notch too because they know SCSU won't be a pushover.
The other factor I would point out is your overly simplistic commentary on "chemistry". Team chemistry is not a given just because you had it the prior year. Every team has changed and even the teams with the fewest changes have to deal with new personalities, players shifting to new roles, guys having to face higher expectations, etc.
If chemistry was simply about returning key guys who played well together as a team the prior year, the Gophers would have won three titles in a row by default.... and the team that beat them in the NCAAs that year (UMD) wouldn't have flopped the next year. Both of those teams had a lot of returning talent that played well together the prior season. There are plenty of historical examples where teams simply don't pull together as well as they did the year prior even if the vast majority of the team stays the same. You seem to take it as a given. But it isn't.
Every team in the league is trying to build a new team chemistry over the summer and in captain's practices. It is something that is built again. It isn't something you save up from the past year and plug in as if it is simply a given to be there like the previous year.
In Conclusion
SCSU will not finish in the Top three like some are predicting, however, they will make some noise. Frankly, SCSU does not have the talent that Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Denver or Duluth have.
Monday, September 04, 2006
Goon's Ramblings 09-02-06: Mark Dobmeier on a role
Mark DobmeierLocal sprint car driver Mark Dobmeier has been on a roll all season. During the 2006 season Mark has won an unprecedented 19 feature races. That is good on any racing circuit. With picking up the win this past Sunday night at Husets Speedway in Brandon, South Dakota, Dobmeier now has 8 features during his career at the famed Huset’s speedway. Husets Speedway is known as one of the top dirt tracks in North America. With the win on Sunday night that puts Mark Dobmeier 2 wins ahead of current Huset’s point leader Jake Peters who has won 6 times during his career at Husets Speedway.
River Cities SpeedwayMark Dobmeier on Winning 19 races this season:
“Going into the year, our goal was to beat what we did last year. We won 14 features last season. We're sitting at 19 now and we have two chances to get 20.”
I guess we can say mission accomplished. Goon’s World predicts win 20 will come on Friday night at River Cities Speedway. Here is what the Argus Leader had to say on Dobmeier’s win Sunday night.
Argus Leader Story
BRANDON - Mark Dobmeier kept his title hopes alive with a dominating win in the outlaw sprint car feature Sunday night at Huset's Speedway.
The Grand Forks, N.D., driver entered the evening's action nine points back of leader Jake Peters of Sioux Falls, and his win unofficially kept him the same distance behind at the end of the night.
"We've had some bad luck lately, but that's all behind us now and we're moving forward," said a hopeful Dobmeier. "We're just going to do our best next week."Dobmeier started on the front row of the 25-lap event and was never challenged during the race. Dusty Zomer of Brandon moved to second early in the event but was unable to pressure Dobmeier and finished second. Peters moved through the field to take third ahead of Gary DeWall of Jackson, Minn., John Lambertz of Sioux Falls, Gregg Bakker of Sioux Falls and Micah Schliemann of Baltic.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Goon's Ramblings 9-02-06.
Minnesota is Being Invaded
While Camping at Itasca State Park this past June I saw a camper parked in the camp ground that caught my eye. Of course my evil and demented mind thought of many things. Here is my conclusion. Minnesota is being invaded. Look closer the liscense plate is from Florida. Does that make them a Red Neck Badger?
The New Fighting SueThe New Fighting Sue
I purchased this shirt on line. These shirts are from a Sioux fan that is also a little tweaked, miffed, flabbergasted and pissed off at the NCAA Nazis and their ridiculous stand against the Fighting Sioux name. I think UND should wear the Fighting Sue logo to the NCAA hockey playoffs next spring. I would love to see Miles Brand’s response to that.
Here is the problem, while it would be ok to wear a Central Michigan University Chippewa jersey or for the Florida State University Seminole's Mascot (a white guy) to ride a horse into the Alerus Center and throw a flaming spear into the turf at mid field. The NCAA has also deemed that the Fighting Sioux logo not welcome at NCAA playoff events. Where is the logic? That’s liberal education to the nth degree. Back to the shirt my wife hates this shirt, I guess she doesn’t see the humor in it. Also, for the other blogger’s out there, I suppose that this article could be construed as objectionable, I am sure it will offend someone. Personally I hope it does. Objectionable-I am offended by the NCAA stand on the Fighting Sioux name.
Web Link To Fighting Sue Web Page
Shirt
Monday, August 28, 2006
Goon's Ramblings 8-28-06.
Dane Jackson Picked as UND Next Assistant Coach
Apparently not all in town are happy with the selection of Dane Jackson as the next assistant coach of the Fighting Sioux. Below is a letter that was written to the editor of the Grand Forks Herald that was in this Sunday’s paper.
Goon’s World Perspective on the Matter
First off, Dave Hakstol is the head coach of the Fighting Sioux. It is his prerogative to hire whomever he wants to hire, it's his decision. Let's get over ourselves. Ok, so Hak is great coach, it's his decision to hire the best person suited for the job, that person in Hak’s mind is Dane Jackson. I am cool with that.
I think as Sioux fans our next response should be to welcome aboard Dane Jackson, glad you’re here and congratulations on getting the position, not whining from malcontents unhappy with the decision.
Apparently not all in town are happy with the selection of Dane Jackson as the next assistant coach of the Fighting Sioux. Below is a letter that was written to the editor of the Grand Forks Herald that was in this Sunday’s paper.
UND hockey misses great coaching candidate
GRAND FORKS - Taking nothing away from Dane Jackson, whom UND recently hired as men's assistant hockey coach, UND missed an excellent opportunity to promote a Grand Forks native. Steve Johnson (UND 1984-1988) also had applied for and vigorously pursued the position. Johnson not only won a national championship at UND, but also was a Hobey Baker runner-up, first team All American, Western Collegiate Hockey Association and national scoring leader and went on to become U.S. Hockey League coach of the year on three separate occasions. He also has international coaching experience, having coached three U.S. national teams. His USHL record consistently is among the league's best and includes five championships in 10 years in Lincoln, Neb.
Johnson also was instrumental in UND's recent success, having placed 20 Lincoln Stars players at UND, including eight players on the 2004-05 UND team that finished second in the NCAA Frozen Four. In addition to passing up the opportunity to hire Johnson, UND could jeopardize its recruiting of elite U.S.-born players. All three current UND coaches are Canadian-born players. UND has sent a message to U.S.-born players that its recruiting focus is elsewhere. This is unfortunate, because 16 of UND's players last year were U.S.-born, while 11 players came directly from the USHL. This is a number that potentially could shrink over the next few years.
Many USHL coaches vocally supported Johnson in his bid to become a UND assistant. His reputation within the league would have been a major asset to UND's recruiting efforts. Without that connection, UND will have more and more difficulty landing top U.S. players. USHL coaches will take this news as a negative reflection of their league's value to UND. It is truly unfortunate that UND athletics expects so much financially from students, businesses and others in this community but missed a prime opportunity to give something back. Jay LaDue
Goon’s World Perspective on the Matter
First off, Dave Hakstol is the head coach of the Fighting Sioux. It is his prerogative to hire whomever he wants to hire, it's his decision. Let's get over ourselves. Ok, so Hak is great coach, it's his decision to hire the best person suited for the job, that person in Hak’s mind is Dane Jackson. I am cool with that.
I think as Sioux fans our next response should be to welcome aboard Dane Jackson, glad you’re here and congratulations on getting the position, not whining from malcontents unhappy with the decision.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Bruin's Resign Patrice Bergeron. Whew...
The Boston Bruins got some good news today.
The Boston Bruins finally signed Super Star Patrice Bergeron today. This was a deal that had to get done and the Bruin's Management came through inking Patrice to a nice deal that will allow the Bruins to have their top forward in camp when training camp kicks off next month. The deal is reported to be some where in the 4.75 million dollar range. Whew...
Bergeron Signs Contract
The Boston Bruins finally signed Super Star Patrice Bergeron today. This was a deal that had to get done and the Bruin's Management came through inking Patrice to a nice deal that will allow the Bruins to have their top forward in camp when training camp kicks off next month. The deal is reported to be some where in the 4.75 million dollar range. Whew...
Bergeron Signs Contract
The Boston Bruins have re-signed center Patrice Bergeron to a multi-year contract, it was announced today by Bruins General Manager Peter Chiarelli.
"Patrice is an outstanding young player with a tremendous future," said Chiarelli. "He is an offensive threat every time he is on the ice, has great defensive instincts and he plays a physical game without taking a lot of penalties. With all that he has already accomplished, he will continue to grow as a player and we are very pleased that he will do so in a Bruins uniform."
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Goon's Ramblings 8-20-06.
Time for the River Cities Speedway Management to change things up.
I am a big race fan much to my wife’s displeasure and I attend the weekly program at River Cities Speedway on a regular basis (religiously). RCS I also think the NOSA sprint car division is NOSA a good touring club. However, currently I am not all that high on the River Cities Speedway management and the way the track has being run, in my opinion the track is slipping in quality of their weekly shows; I believe there is a list of problems many of us have pointed out on the various message boards (poor track prep, poor flagmen, rough driving, low car counts, too quick to cancel a race due to rain, low pay out to drivers, we know the list we may have our own additions).
I feel River Cities Speedway has a lot of room for improvement and its weekly race program, and as of late the weekly program is getting stale. That is my personal opinion. The RCS needs to change things up for the good of the fans or they risk losing the fans to another venue. One example is the Super Stocks a once competitive division have crashed and burned and will probably be dumped after the season, the weekly programs are marred with rough racing and low car counts. I can only imagine what kind of Junkers the Speedway will run in their place next season. Please don’t replace them with bombers or road hogs. I suggest something along the lines of the Midwest Mods. Heck if they are smart they should go to the DTRA Modified.
Incidentally DTRA has Streets Stocks, Super Stocks, Modified and Late Models. It seems like a no brainier if you asked me.
One question: Why not switch to the weekly program for sprints to ASCS? ASCS Racing Web Pages Why not get involved in a national points race? You could still have the NOSA touring points too. The Late Models switched to Dirt Track Racing Association, which I believe is a good thing. DTRAThe driver can still race in a National Points Race. I also believe that LM’s are the most competitive class at RCS right now.
Another argument is RCS is losing drivers that could have possibly raced at River Cities Speedway to the ASCS. A few of these drivers are; Wade Nygaard, Mike Sitzmanm, Natalie Sather, Lee Grosz. I might get slammed for this but some of these drivers are more exciting to watch than some of the current NOSA Sprint Car drivers currently filling the line up right now. Personally I would rather watch Natalie Sather than Tom Cummings or Stan Meyer.
Why not have an ASCS program here from week to week? The drivers that want to run 410’s could still compete with 410's when the Big Boys of the world like the NST come to town. Next year the World of Outlaws WoOwill only run to dates in ND. I am afraid they will dump us in North Dakota all together very soon for bigger venues that have bigger grand stands, Loews, Texas Motor speedway etc.
This is where I think RCS has gone down hill. The River Cities Speedway used to have many awesome weekly events. In years past there used to be all kinds of weekly specials: The NCRA used to come to town, then there was the Harvest Bowl, years past there was the Knoxville, Hussets, RCS challenge (I also think that the track prep of years past turned some of traveling drivers off). Now there are nothing but shows that cost $40.00 + and frankly the management might may have priced some of very fans they are trying to draw to the speedway (i.e. Nation Sprint Tour and World of Outlaws Late Model events). Personally I will be able to afford these events but I know there will be others that will say the hell with this I am staying home because no race at RCS is worth that type of price tag. I doubt my father would want to spend that much money to see a race. Then get back into his gas guzzling F-150 and spend 3.00+ a gallon to drive 140 miles back up to Williams, MN.
In fact this season the NST Show is really the only legitimate sprint car special of the year, they used to have the Harvest Bowl, NCRA and other events. Heck half of the drivers in NOSA race 360’s now. I think we limit the numbers of cars that come to RCS because it’s not a 360 track per say, when in reality it might be and we don’t know it. Except for the big shows where there is big money the speedway is really not drawing the big drivers like it used to. The NST show was awesome.
Local Drivers on a Roll.
Mark Dodmeier has been on a roll this season, I think that might actually be an under-statement. Mark Dobmeier has won an unprecedented 14 features this season. Mark Is leading the points at River Cities Speedway as well at Huset’s Speedway in Brandon South Dakota by two points. I wonder how long Mark will race locally before he makes a run at either the NST or the WoO, he definitely has the talent if he has the money to compete. If I were Mark, I be board with winning every race at RCS, the man can come from the back of the pack and win a race, just give him 10 laps. The time is now for Mark to step up to the big time.
Lou Kennedy is the hot at Nodak speedway in Minot this season. Lou has won both NOSA shows in Minot and was the highest finisher for the local drivers in last nights show finishing 8th and bringing home $2100.00. A nice payday for Lou, Goon’s world would like to congratulate Lou Kennedy Jr. on having a fine season this year. I have enjoyed watching him race whenever he has been in the River Cities field since Lou switched chassis this year he seemed to have a better a better car on a night to night basis.
I am a big race fan much to my wife’s displeasure and I attend the weekly program at River Cities Speedway on a regular basis (religiously). RCS I also think the NOSA sprint car division is NOSA a good touring club. However, currently I am not all that high on the River Cities Speedway management and the way the track has being run, in my opinion the track is slipping in quality of their weekly shows; I believe there is a list of problems many of us have pointed out on the various message boards (poor track prep, poor flagmen, rough driving, low car counts, too quick to cancel a race due to rain, low pay out to drivers, we know the list we may have our own additions).
I feel River Cities Speedway has a lot of room for improvement and its weekly race program, and as of late the weekly program is getting stale. That is my personal opinion. The RCS needs to change things up for the good of the fans or they risk losing the fans to another venue. One example is the Super Stocks a once competitive division have crashed and burned and will probably be dumped after the season, the weekly programs are marred with rough racing and low car counts. I can only imagine what kind of Junkers the Speedway will run in their place next season. Please don’t replace them with bombers or road hogs. I suggest something along the lines of the Midwest Mods. Heck if they are smart they should go to the DTRA Modified.
Incidentally DTRA has Streets Stocks, Super Stocks, Modified and Late Models. It seems like a no brainier if you asked me.
One question: Why not switch to the weekly program for sprints to ASCS? ASCS Racing Web Pages Why not get involved in a national points race? You could still have the NOSA touring points too. The Late Models switched to Dirt Track Racing Association, which I believe is a good thing. DTRAThe driver can still race in a National Points Race. I also believe that LM’s are the most competitive class at RCS right now.
Another argument is RCS is losing drivers that could have possibly raced at River Cities Speedway to the ASCS. A few of these drivers are; Wade Nygaard, Mike Sitzmanm, Natalie Sather, Lee Grosz. I might get slammed for this but some of these drivers are more exciting to watch than some of the current NOSA Sprint Car drivers currently filling the line up right now. Personally I would rather watch Natalie Sather than Tom Cummings or Stan Meyer.
Why not have an ASCS program here from week to week? The drivers that want to run 410’s could still compete with 410's when the Big Boys of the world like the NST come to town. Next year the World of Outlaws WoOwill only run to dates in ND. I am afraid they will dump us in North Dakota all together very soon for bigger venues that have bigger grand stands, Loews, Texas Motor speedway etc.
This is where I think RCS has gone down hill. The River Cities Speedway used to have many awesome weekly events. In years past there used to be all kinds of weekly specials: The NCRA used to come to town, then there was the Harvest Bowl, years past there was the Knoxville, Hussets, RCS challenge (I also think that the track prep of years past turned some of traveling drivers off). Now there are nothing but shows that cost $40.00 + and frankly the management might may have priced some of very fans they are trying to draw to the speedway (i.e. Nation Sprint Tour and World of Outlaws Late Model events). Personally I will be able to afford these events but I know there will be others that will say the hell with this I am staying home because no race at RCS is worth that type of price tag. I doubt my father would want to spend that much money to see a race. Then get back into his gas guzzling F-150 and spend 3.00+ a gallon to drive 140 miles back up to Williams, MN.
In fact this season the NST Show is really the only legitimate sprint car special of the year, they used to have the Harvest Bowl, NCRA and other events. Heck half of the drivers in NOSA race 360’s now. I think we limit the numbers of cars that come to RCS because it’s not a 360 track per say, when in reality it might be and we don’t know it. Except for the big shows where there is big money the speedway is really not drawing the big drivers like it used to. The NST show was awesome.
Local Drivers on a Roll.
Mark Dodmeier has been on a roll this season, I think that might actually be an under-statement. Mark Dobmeier has won an unprecedented 14 features this season. Mark Is leading the points at River Cities Speedway as well at Huset’s Speedway in Brandon South Dakota by two points. I wonder how long Mark will race locally before he makes a run at either the NST or the WoO, he definitely has the talent if he has the money to compete. If I were Mark, I be board with winning every race at RCS, the man can come from the back of the pack and win a race, just give him 10 laps. The time is now for Mark to step up to the big time.
Lou Kennedy is the hot at Nodak speedway in Minot this season. Lou has won both NOSA shows in Minot and was the highest finisher for the local drivers in last nights show finishing 8th and bringing home $2100.00. A nice payday for Lou, Goon’s world would like to congratulate Lou Kennedy Jr. on having a fine season this year. I have enjoyed watching him race whenever he has been in the River Cities field since Lou switched chassis this year he seemed to have a better a better car on a night to night basis.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Hero of West Regional Quesada Signs with Houston.
Tony QuesadaFormer Holy Cross Goalie Tony Quesada Sign AHL contract with Houston Areos.Quesada Signs
Another Goalie in the Mix
GDI
In case anyone has forgotten him: Go back March 24th, 2006 the goalie of record, the star of the 2006 West Regional game, the darling of the Grand Forks media, The goalie of record between the Minnesota Golden Gophers and the Holy Cross Crusaders Tony Quesada has signed a professional contract with the Houston Aero’s of the American Hockey League.
4-3July 31, 2006
HOUSTON, Texas. - Former Holy Cross goaltender Tony Quesada has signed a contract with the American Hockey leagues Houston Aeros, the team announced Monday. The Aeros are the affiliate of the NHL's Minnesota Wild.
A four-year member of the Holy Cross men's hockey team, Quesada ranks first all-time at Holy Cross in wins (61), save percentage (.915), goals against average (2.50), games played (105) and minutes played (6033:54), while he is second in saves (2700).
Thursday, August 17, 2006
The Mass Exodus Continues.
Players Leaving Early for the Pros Updated Version:
The list of players bolting for the pros keeps growing by the day. ItÂ’s getting to be sickening. Again Goon's world doesn't fault these kids for taking the money but I blame the hockey clubs plucking these kids out of school early. I predict there are going to be more and as I predicted there were more. Forunately UND hasn't lost anymore.
Complete list of underclassmen signings in the WCHA (so far):
Break Down of the List Per Sioux Extra
Brad's Blog
UND (5)
Travis Zajac, sophomore
Matt Smaby, junior
Drew Stafford, junior
Rastislav Spirko, sophomore
Jordan Parise, junior
Minnesota (4)
Phil Kessel , Freshman (signed with the Boston Bruins)
Kris Chucko, sophomore
Danny Irmen, junior
Ryan Potulny, junior
Mankato (3)
David Backes, junior
Kyle Peto, junior
Ryan Carter, sophomore
Wisconsin (2)
Robbie Earl, junior
Joe Pavelski, sophomore
Denver (2)
Matt Carle, junior
Paul Stastny, sophomore
Players that could leave.
Brian Elliot (BADgers) Staying with the Badgers.
Jack Skille (BADgers) Staying with the Badgers.
Jonathon Toews (Figthing Sioux) Staying with the Fighting Sioux
On a side note: Cornell Big Red Hit Hard by Defections also
Its well documented that Minnesota(4) and the Fighting Sioux (5) have suffered major loses this off season, the Big Red of Cornell has also been hit hard in the off season by defections. Here is a break down of the Cornell loses.
Cornell David McKee Jr. Signed with Anaheim (NHL)
Cornell Ryan O'Byrne Jr. Signed with Montreal (NHL)
Cornell Sasha Pololuk So. Signed with Washington (NHL)
The list of players bolting for the pros keeps growing by the day. ItÂ’s getting to be sickening. Again Goon's world doesn't fault these kids for taking the money but I blame the hockey clubs plucking these kids out of school early. I predict there are going to be more and as I predicted there were more. Forunately UND hasn't lost anymore.
Complete list of underclassmen signings in the WCHA (so far):
Break Down of the List Per Sioux Extra
Brad's Blog
UND (5)
Travis Zajac, sophomore
Matt Smaby, junior
Drew Stafford, junior
Rastislav Spirko, sophomore
Jordan Parise, junior
Minnesota (4)
Phil Kessel , Freshman (signed with the Boston Bruins)
Kris Chucko, sophomore
Danny Irmen, junior
Ryan Potulny, junior
Mankato (3)
David Backes, junior
Kyle Peto, junior
Ryan Carter, sophomore
Wisconsin (2)
Robbie Earl, junior
Joe Pavelski, sophomore
Denver (2)
Matt Carle, junior
Paul Stastny, sophomore
Players that could leave.
Brian Elliot (BADgers) Staying with the Badgers.
Jack Skille (BADgers) Staying with the Badgers.
Jonathon Toews (Figthing Sioux) Staying with the Fighting Sioux
On a side note: Cornell Big Red Hit Hard by Defections also
Its well documented that Minnesota(4) and the Fighting Sioux (5) have suffered major loses this off season, the Big Red of Cornell has also been hit hard in the off season by defections. Here is a break down of the Cornell loses.
Cornell David McKee Jr. Signed with Anaheim (NHL)
Cornell Ryan O'Byrne Jr. Signed with Montreal (NHL)
Cornell Sasha Pololuk So. Signed with Washington (NHL)
Goon's Ramblings 8-17-06.
Signing Imminent
All the pundits are now saying that Phil Kessel the highly talented Minnesota Golden Gopher’s forward is about to sign a professional contract the upstart Boston Bruins. Minnesota Coach Don Lucia is preparing for the bad news. Lucia Believes deal coming soon
The past week the Internet chatter has been fast and furious about the upcoming Kessel deal. It seems to be the story that everyone one is talking about: see links below. In a summer where there seems to be a never-ending list of defections of college hockey underclassmen to the NHL, the list keeps getting longer and longer. Fans nation wide are lining up on bridges in a town near you to make the leap (all kidding aside), the up coming college hockey season cannot come fast enough.
The Links to the Never Ending Story:
For all the people that want to see a link they are numerous.
ESPN Story on Kessel
Hammy’s Golden Gopher Blog
Ciskie Nation
Western College Hockey
Its now Offical Kessel A Boston Bruin.
Its Now Official
All the pundits are now saying that Phil Kessel the highly talented Minnesota Golden Gopher’s forward is about to sign a professional contract the upstart Boston Bruins. Minnesota Coach Don Lucia is preparing for the bad news. Lucia Believes deal coming soon
Who knows, it could all fall apart in the next 24 to 48 hours," Lucia told the Globe. "But I'd be surprised. Right now we're preparing for life after Phil. If he ends up back in college right now, I'd be very surprised."
The past week the Internet chatter has been fast and furious about the upcoming Kessel deal. It seems to be the story that everyone one is talking about: see links below. In a summer where there seems to be a never-ending list of defections of college hockey underclassmen to the NHL, the list keeps getting longer and longer. Fans nation wide are lining up on bridges in a town near you to make the leap (all kidding aside), the up coming college hockey season cannot come fast enough.
The Links to the Never Ending Story:
For all the people that want to see a link they are numerous.
ESPN Story on Kessel
Hammy’s Golden Gopher Blog
Ciskie Nation
Western College Hockey
Its now Offical Kessel A Boston Bruin.
Its Now Official
The Boston Bruins have signed center Phil Kessel to a multi-year contract, it was announced today by Bruins General Manager Peter Chiarelli. Terms of the contract were not released.
"Phil is a player with world-class speed and gifted offensive talents," said Chiarelli. "We feel he is ready to begin his professional development and we are looking forward to seeing him compete at training camp.”
Kessel, 18, was Boston’s first pick, fifth overall, in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft held on June 24, 2006 in Vancouver. He played one season of college hockey at the University of Minnesota in 2005-06, finishing second on the team and sixth overall in league scoring with 18 goals and 33 assists for 51 points in 34 games while also leading his club in plus/minus with a +22 rating. He was named the WCHA’s Rookie of the Year and earned a berth on the WCHA All-Rookie Team.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Goon's Ramblings 8-16-06
Phil KesselTime to make up your mind Kessel
There is a rumbling on the internet that Phil Kessel might in fact be signing a pro contract. There is no confirmaton of this as of yet. Yawn, this is getting boring, almost as boring as the suspense leading up to his press conference, where he announced which college team he was going to play with.
BostonBruins.COM poll on Kessel Staying in College or Going Pro
Here was an interesting poll on the Bruins web page.
Should Phil Kessel leave college early to turn pro?
Current Results:
51.85%
Yes, he should leave now
30.83%
He should wait one more year
17.33%
No, he should play all 4 years
Hammy from the Golden Gopher Blog is saying that it is about to happen.
Hammy's Blog
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Goon’s Ramblings 8-13-2006
Harry Sinden Steps Down as President of Boston Bruins
Sinden Steps Down
On could say that 8-09-2006 was a very good day for the Boston Bruins hockey team as well as for their beleaguered fans. Long time president and general manager Harry Sinden resigned as president of the Boston Bruins. Harry Sinden will stay on as advisor to the Bruins, but I can only hope that they use little if any of his advice unless team owner Jeremy Jacobs wants to continue being a mediocre hockey team.
Harry Sinden has been at the helm as the Boston Bruins a once proud hockey franchise have been systematically run into the ground and become the laughing stock of the NHL. It’s a good move because the Bruins can’t continue to be a horrible team in a very competitive Northeastern Division. Last season the Boston Bruins failed to make the playoffs finishing 13th in the East out of 15 teams, that folks is unacceptable.
Breaking down the numbers further: The last season the Bruins made the playoffs was 2004 when the Boston Bruins were taken out of the playoffs by the punch less Montreal Canadians in seven games. In fact the Bruins have failed to get past the second round (missing the playoffs three times including last season) since 1999 when they lost to the Buffalo Sabres in six games.
The last season was totally a disaster as the Bruins fired their head coach, General Manager and shipped two very good hockey players west. The last straw was probably sending Joe Thornton to the San Jose Sharks where he went on and won the league scoring title. I had a hard time stomaching the trade as the Bruins received little in return for Thornton.
the Future looks Bright?
There is some room for optimism based on trades the Bruins made in the off-season. The Bruins picked up a monster defensemen Zdeno Chara from the Ottawa Senators. Zdeno Chara is a mountain of a man and is also as mean as a cornered rattlesnake. They also picked up Marc Savard from the Atlanta Thrashers who scored 97 points last season.
On the other side of the coin the Boston Bruins have many holes their biggest hole is goaltending. Tim Thomas is brutal at best and I have no clue why the Bruins signed him to another contract but they are stuck with him unless they can find a good replacement. Frankly I would like to see more of Finnish Goalie Hannu Toivonen who came on last season until an ankle injury ended/shortened his season.
Sinden Steps Down
On could say that 8-09-2006 was a very good day for the Boston Bruins hockey team as well as for their beleaguered fans. Long time president and general manager Harry Sinden resigned as president of the Boston Bruins. Harry Sinden will stay on as advisor to the Bruins, but I can only hope that they use little if any of his advice unless team owner Jeremy Jacobs wants to continue being a mediocre hockey team.
Harry Sinden has been at the helm as the Boston Bruins a once proud hockey franchise have been systematically run into the ground and become the laughing stock of the NHL. It’s a good move because the Bruins can’t continue to be a horrible team in a very competitive Northeastern Division. Last season the Boston Bruins failed to make the playoffs finishing 13th in the East out of 15 teams, that folks is unacceptable.
Breaking down the numbers further: The last season the Bruins made the playoffs was 2004 when the Boston Bruins were taken out of the playoffs by the punch less Montreal Canadians in seven games. In fact the Bruins have failed to get past the second round (missing the playoffs three times including last season) since 1999 when they lost to the Buffalo Sabres in six games.
The last season was totally a disaster as the Bruins fired their head coach, General Manager and shipped two very good hockey players west. The last straw was probably sending Joe Thornton to the San Jose Sharks where he went on and won the league scoring title. I had a hard time stomaching the trade as the Bruins received little in return for Thornton.
the Future looks Bright?
There is some room for optimism based on trades the Bruins made in the off-season. The Bruins picked up a monster defensemen Zdeno Chara from the Ottawa Senators. Zdeno Chara is a mountain of a man and is also as mean as a cornered rattlesnake. They also picked up Marc Savard from the Atlanta Thrashers who scored 97 points last season.
On the other side of the coin the Boston Bruins have many holes their biggest hole is goaltending. Tim Thomas is brutal at best and I have no clue why the Bruins signed him to another contract but they are stuck with him unless they can find a good replacement. Frankly I would like to see more of Finnish Goalie Hannu Toivonen who came on last season until an ankle injury ended/shortened his season.
Sunday, August 06, 2006
Goon's Ramblings 8-6-2006.
The 2006 Hunting Regulations Laws have been posted.
Ducktober is just around the corner and there are some new rules that hunters need to be aware of. The North Dakota Waterfowl season opens for North Dakota residents on the 23rd of September. The following week the season opens for Non-Residents on September 30th. There are some subtle changes to the proclamation that hunters need to be aware of: this season you will be able to take 5 ducks in stead of 6, you can take 5 mallards but only one of them can be a mallard hen, one canvasback, or one pintail.
Mallard Drakes
This could be problematic and I predict there will be a lot of mallard hens stomped into the mud (as one poster mentioned on another web page) or left in the bulrushes for the coyotes to eat. Hunters are going to have to be careful to identify the ducks they are shooting at before they pull the trigger. I would also suggest getting a waterfowl identification guide and study it. You are going to want to make sure that your shooting a mallard drake. Shooting too many mallard hens only reduces the number of ducks that you will have to hunt next season. I once read in an article that for every mallard hen you shoot you potentially erase 15 ducks that could have been born next season.
Hen Mallard
The New Rules-Posted in the Grand Forks Herald
Service OKs liberal regulations; N.D. season likely to begin Sept. 23, Minnesota's on Sept. 30
By Brad Dokken
Herald Staff Writer
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has approved a "Hunter's Choice" aggregate duck limit for North Dakota and four other Central Flyway states during the 2006 waterfowl season.
The service also approved the "liberal" package of waterfowl regulations for the upcoming season. Federal waterfowl managers use a formula called Adaptive Harvest Management, which looks at spring mallard numbers and Canadian wetland conditions, to set fall hunting seasons.
Spring conditions were good enough to warrant the liberal package again this year, officials said. The other options are "moderate" and "restrictive" packages with shorter seasons and reduced bags.
Paul Schmidt, assistant director of migratory birds, made the announcement Friday during a conference call with outdoor writers from across the country. The liberal package means a maximum 74-day season in the Central Flyway and a 60-day season in the Mississippi Flyway, which includes Minnesota.
Three-year test
With approval of the Hunter's Choice regulations, North Dakota hunters will have a five-duck limit instead of the traditional six that liberal regulations traditionally allow. Basically an aggregate limit, Hunter's Choice eliminates the "season within a season" for less abundant species such as pintails and canvasbacks. Hunters can have one mallard hen, one pintail or one canvasback in their five-bird bag.
Other species restrictions include a two-bird limit on scaup and wood ducks. In the category of abundant ducks, hunters can shoot five birds of such species as teal, wigeon and mallards, but only one of those mallards can be a hen.
Other Central Flyway states offering Hunter's Choice regulations are South Dakota, Wyoming, Texas and Kansas. The goal of the three-year experiment is to reduce the harvest of pintails and canvasbacks.
The remaining Central Flyway states will be "control" states adhering to the traditional limited seasons for pintails and canvasbacks.
"That's going to be really exciting to see how that works," said Randy Kreil, wildlife division chief for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department in Bismarck.
Residents-only opener
Approval of liberal regulations clears the way for North Dakota to open its duck season Sept. 23. Kreil said the state again this year is recommending to set aside the first week of season for resident hunters only. Nonresident hunters could begin hunting waterfowl Sept. 30.
Despite drought conditions across North Dakota and other prairie pothole states, Kreil said he wasn't surprised the service opted for liberal regulations over the moderate or restrictive packages.
"What people need to realize is the factors that determine whether we're in a liberal package are the mallard population, which is still high, and the habitat on the Canadian prairies," Kreil said Friday. "Water conditions all across the prairies and boreal forest (of Canada) are excellent, so that is going to lend itself to very good duck production in Canada."
In Minnesota, the Department of Natural Resources again this year is expected to offer a 60-day season beginning Sept. 30, according to Steve Cordts, waterfowl staff specialist for the DNR in Bemidji. Bag limits have yet to be determined, Cordts said Friday, and the DNR likely will issue a news release with more information this week.
Minnesota last year had a four-duck limit, even though they could have offered six birds under the liberal package. That's likely to be the case this year, too, if spring population surveys are any indication. The DNR estimated spring mallard numbers in the state at 161,000 - 33 percent lower than 2005 and the lowest recorded since 1983.
Ducktober is just around the corner and there are some new rules that hunters need to be aware of. The North Dakota Waterfowl season opens for North Dakota residents on the 23rd of September. The following week the season opens for Non-Residents on September 30th. There are some subtle changes to the proclamation that hunters need to be aware of: this season you will be able to take 5 ducks in stead of 6, you can take 5 mallards but only one of them can be a mallard hen, one canvasback, or one pintail.
Mallard DrakesThis could be problematic and I predict there will be a lot of mallard hens stomped into the mud (as one poster mentioned on another web page) or left in the bulrushes for the coyotes to eat. Hunters are going to have to be careful to identify the ducks they are shooting at before they pull the trigger. I would also suggest getting a waterfowl identification guide and study it. You are going to want to make sure that your shooting a mallard drake. Shooting too many mallard hens only reduces the number of ducks that you will have to hunt next season. I once read in an article that for every mallard hen you shoot you potentially erase 15 ducks that could have been born next season.
Hen MallardThe New Rules-Posted in the Grand Forks Herald
Service OKs liberal regulations; N.D. season likely to begin Sept. 23, Minnesota's on Sept. 30
By Brad Dokken
Herald Staff Writer
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has approved a "Hunter's Choice" aggregate duck limit for North Dakota and four other Central Flyway states during the 2006 waterfowl season.
The service also approved the "liberal" package of waterfowl regulations for the upcoming season. Federal waterfowl managers use a formula called Adaptive Harvest Management, which looks at spring mallard numbers and Canadian wetland conditions, to set fall hunting seasons.
Spring conditions were good enough to warrant the liberal package again this year, officials said. The other options are "moderate" and "restrictive" packages with shorter seasons and reduced bags.
Paul Schmidt, assistant director of migratory birds, made the announcement Friday during a conference call with outdoor writers from across the country. The liberal package means a maximum 74-day season in the Central Flyway and a 60-day season in the Mississippi Flyway, which includes Minnesota.
Three-year test
With approval of the Hunter's Choice regulations, North Dakota hunters will have a five-duck limit instead of the traditional six that liberal regulations traditionally allow. Basically an aggregate limit, Hunter's Choice eliminates the "season within a season" for less abundant species such as pintails and canvasbacks. Hunters can have one mallard hen, one pintail or one canvasback in their five-bird bag.
Other species restrictions include a two-bird limit on scaup and wood ducks. In the category of abundant ducks, hunters can shoot five birds of such species as teal, wigeon and mallards, but only one of those mallards can be a hen.
Other Central Flyway states offering Hunter's Choice regulations are South Dakota, Wyoming, Texas and Kansas. The goal of the three-year experiment is to reduce the harvest of pintails and canvasbacks.
The remaining Central Flyway states will be "control" states adhering to the traditional limited seasons for pintails and canvasbacks.
"That's going to be really exciting to see how that works," said Randy Kreil, wildlife division chief for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department in Bismarck.
Residents-only opener
Approval of liberal regulations clears the way for North Dakota to open its duck season Sept. 23. Kreil said the state again this year is recommending to set aside the first week of season for resident hunters only. Nonresident hunters could begin hunting waterfowl Sept. 30.
Despite drought conditions across North Dakota and other prairie pothole states, Kreil said he wasn't surprised the service opted for liberal regulations over the moderate or restrictive packages.
"What people need to realize is the factors that determine whether we're in a liberal package are the mallard population, which is still high, and the habitat on the Canadian prairies," Kreil said Friday. "Water conditions all across the prairies and boreal forest (of Canada) are excellent, so that is going to lend itself to very good duck production in Canada."
In Minnesota, the Department of Natural Resources again this year is expected to offer a 60-day season beginning Sept. 30, according to Steve Cordts, waterfowl staff specialist for the DNR in Bemidji. Bag limits have yet to be determined, Cordts said Friday, and the DNR likely will issue a news release with more information this week.
Minnesota last year had a four-duck limit, even though they could have offered six birds under the liberal package. That's likely to be the case this year, too, if spring population surveys are any indication. The DNR estimated spring mallard numbers in the state at 161,000 - 33 percent lower than 2005 and the lowest recorded since 1983.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Goon’s Ramblings 8-03-2006
Fix Your Ball Marks Please
One of my personal pet peeves is golfers that don't fix their ball marks on the greens. Today while golfing I notice a lot of ball marks on thee greens. As a former golf course maintenance worker I know that ball marks on greens are a superintendents nightmare if a person doesn't fix their ball marks it will take at least 2 weeks or longer for that ball mark to heel, also when you don't fix your ball mark it the ball mark can further be damaged by the greens mower when they mow the greens I the morning. As I played my round of golf today I noticed that there are a lot of ball marks on the greens at my local course. Not fixing your ball mark seems to be a pattern that is prevalent in the Red River Valley.
Here is the is a perfect example on the proper way of fixing a ball mark. This is taken from a web page on good etiquette.
The Proper way to Fix a Ball Mark
Always repair your ball marks on the green, not to do so is really bad form. In fact, repair a second mark if a player before you has failed to repair theirs. The proper way to repair a ball mark is to use a repair tool, which many courses will gladly give you. Place the prongs of the tool at the edges of the mark and push in towards the center of the mark. Continue around the mark until the depression has been eliminated. Tap down on the repaired area with the bottom of your putter head to even out any bumps or rises that are left. Sometimes a small piece of turf will come out when the ball lands and leaves a mark. Do not replace this in to the depression. Toss it away from the green.
One of my personal pet peeves is golfers that don't fix their ball marks on the greens. Today while golfing I notice a lot of ball marks on thee greens. As a former golf course maintenance worker I know that ball marks on greens are a superintendents nightmare if a person doesn't fix their ball marks it will take at least 2 weeks or longer for that ball mark to heel, also when you don't fix your ball mark it the ball mark can further be damaged by the greens mower when they mow the greens I the morning. As I played my round of golf today I noticed that there are a lot of ball marks on the greens at my local course. Not fixing your ball mark seems to be a pattern that is prevalent in the Red River Valley.
Here is the is a perfect example on the proper way of fixing a ball mark. This is taken from a web page on good etiquette.
The Proper way to Fix a Ball Mark
Always repair your ball marks on the green, not to do so is really bad form. In fact, repair a second mark if a player before you has failed to repair theirs. The proper way to repair a ball mark is to use a repair tool, which many courses will gladly give you. Place the prongs of the tool at the edges of the mark and push in towards the center of the mark. Continue around the mark until the depression has been eliminated. Tap down on the repaired area with the bottom of your putter head to even out any bumps or rises that are left. Sometimes a small piece of turf will come out when the ball lands and leaves a mark. Do not replace this in to the depression. Toss it away from the green.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Goon’s Ramblings 8-02-2006
Another Big Loss for the Fighting Sioux Hockey Team.
Fighting Sioux assistant Coach Berry make the jump to the American Hockey League. This past week Fighting Sioux fans were greeted with more bad news (good for the coach and bad for the Sioux) Assistant Coach Brad Berry accepted a job with the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League.
Goon’s World is saddened by the loss of a good coach because he was a great mentor of young defensemen, and his work was evident by the play of our blue liners. Coach Brad Berry was instrumental in the development of former Fighting Sioux players Matt Greene, Matt Smaby and last seasons freshman defensemen. This is a major blow to UND because his services will be sorely missed. I would like to take this time to thank Coach Berry for his service to UND and wish him the best of luck in coaching in the pros. As clichés go one team’s lose is another’s gain.
Toews Staying Put at UND.
This past week Fighting Sioux forward Jonathon Toews announced that he was staying put and returning to the Fighting Sioux for another season. It would be an understatement if I said a lot of us are relieved as the latest good news (finally something positive after a summer of disappointments) that the Fighting Sioux will have the services of the highly skilled Toews for at least one more season, I wonder if we can talk him into staying one more season after that? If Toews had signed a professional contract with the Chicago Black Hawks it would have been a serious blow to UND chances this up coming season. Let it be known that Toews is a man of poise, It would have been hard for me to turn down the rookie max 850,000.00 and a 85,000 signing bonus.
I believe with Toews the Sioux will still have a dynamic group of skilled players coming back for the next season. Although UND will not score goals in bunches as they did last season Toews and Oshie will still put the fear in the opposition.
Jack Skille Staying Put in Madison
The Wisconsin Badgers also received some good news in July also. Up and coming super star freshman forward Jack Skille announced that he will in fact be returning for another season with the defending National Champions Wisconsin Badgers. It had been rumored that Chicago was interested in signing Skille along with Fighting Sioux forward Jonathon Toews.
Wisconsin like the other great teams in the WCHA did not go unscathed during the off season as the Badgers suffered some big time losses as well, leading scorer Sophomore Joe Pavelski (56 points) signed with the San Jose Sharks of the NHL and second leading scorer Junior Robbie Earl (50 points) signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs of the NHL. Both players were highly touted marquee players and their loss to their team is huge. Of course the Badgers are still loaded and sport one of colleges best goaltenders in Brian Elliot. The Badgers are still going to be the team to beat as teams are going to have to break through their defense to score. Elliot game teams fits last season.
Fighting Sioux assistant Coach Berry make the jump to the American Hockey League. This past week Fighting Sioux fans were greeted with more bad news (good for the coach and bad for the Sioux) Assistant Coach Brad Berry accepted a job with the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League.
Goon’s World is saddened by the loss of a good coach because he was a great mentor of young defensemen, and his work was evident by the play of our blue liners. Coach Brad Berry was instrumental in the development of former Fighting Sioux players Matt Greene, Matt Smaby and last seasons freshman defensemen. This is a major blow to UND because his services will be sorely missed. I would like to take this time to thank Coach Berry for his service to UND and wish him the best of luck in coaching in the pros. As clichés go one team’s lose is another’s gain.
Toews Staying Put at UND.
This past week Fighting Sioux forward Jonathon Toews announced that he was staying put and returning to the Fighting Sioux for another season. It would be an understatement if I said a lot of us are relieved as the latest good news (finally something positive after a summer of disappointments) that the Fighting Sioux will have the services of the highly skilled Toews for at least one more season, I wonder if we can talk him into staying one more season after that? If Toews had signed a professional contract with the Chicago Black Hawks it would have been a serious blow to UND chances this up coming season. Let it be known that Toews is a man of poise, It would have been hard for me to turn down the rookie max 850,000.00 and a 85,000 signing bonus.
I believe with Toews the Sioux will still have a dynamic group of skilled players coming back for the next season. Although UND will not score goals in bunches as they did last season Toews and Oshie will still put the fear in the opposition.
Jack Skille Staying Put in Madison
The Wisconsin Badgers also received some good news in July also. Up and coming super star freshman forward Jack Skille announced that he will in fact be returning for another season with the defending National Champions Wisconsin Badgers. It had been rumored that Chicago was interested in signing Skille along with Fighting Sioux forward Jonathon Toews.
Wisconsin like the other great teams in the WCHA did not go unscathed during the off season as the Badgers suffered some big time losses as well, leading scorer Sophomore Joe Pavelski (56 points) signed with the San Jose Sharks of the NHL and second leading scorer Junior Robbie Earl (50 points) signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs of the NHL. Both players were highly touted marquee players and their loss to their team is huge. Of course the Badgers are still loaded and sport one of colleges best goaltenders in Brian Elliot. The Badgers are still going to be the team to beat as teams are going to have to break through their defense to score. Elliot game teams fits last season.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
The Attrition must stop.
Players Leaving Early for the Pros:
The list of players bolting for the pros keeps growing by the day. Its getting to be sckening. Again Goon's world doesn't fault these kids for taking the money but I blame the hockey clubs plucking these kids out of school early. I predict there are going to be more.
Last week, Denver lost a top player in Paul Stastny, one of the bigger loses of the off season (by talent but not pur numbers). Paul Stastny was an explosive player that could light up the lamp. It will be interesting to see if Stastny makes the big club in Colorado. The Badgers suffered another huge lose when Joel Paveliski signed a professional contract with San Jose.
Complete list of underclassmen signings in the WCHA:
Break Down of the List Per Sioux Extra
UND (5)
Travis Zajac, sophomore
Matt Smaby, junior
Drew Stafford, junior
Rastislav Spirko, sophomore
Jordan Parise, junior
Minnesota (3)
Kris Chucko, sophomore
Danny Irmen, junior
Ryan Potulny, junior
Mankato (3)
David Backes, junior
Kyle Peto, junior
Ryan Carter, sophomore
Wisconsin (2)
Robbie Earl, junior
Joe Pavelski, sophomore
Denver (2)
Matt Carle, junior
Paul Stastny, sophomore
Players that could leave.
Phil Kessel (goofers)
Jack Skille (BADgers)
Jonathon Toews (Figthing Sioux)
The list of players bolting for the pros keeps growing by the day. Its getting to be sckening. Again Goon's world doesn't fault these kids for taking the money but I blame the hockey clubs plucking these kids out of school early. I predict there are going to be more.
Last week, Denver lost a top player in Paul Stastny, one of the bigger loses of the off season (by talent but not pur numbers). Paul Stastny was an explosive player that could light up the lamp. It will be interesting to see if Stastny makes the big club in Colorado. The Badgers suffered another huge lose when Joel Paveliski signed a professional contract with San Jose.
Complete list of underclassmen signings in the WCHA:
Break Down of the List Per Sioux Extra
UND (5)
Travis Zajac, sophomore
Matt Smaby, junior
Drew Stafford, junior
Rastislav Spirko, sophomore
Jordan Parise, junior
Minnesota (3)
Kris Chucko, sophomore
Danny Irmen, junior
Ryan Potulny, junior
Mankato (3)
David Backes, junior
Kyle Peto, junior
Ryan Carter, sophomore
Wisconsin (2)
Robbie Earl, junior
Joe Pavelski, sophomore
Denver (2)
Matt Carle, junior
Paul Stastny, sophomore
Players that could leave.
Phil Kessel (goofers)
Jack Skille (BADgers)
Jonathon Toews (Figthing Sioux)
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Best Kept Golf Secret in North Dakota.
Dakota Winds Golf Course
Check out this Golf Course
This past weekend I had the pleasure to golfing the Dakota Winds golf course in Hankinson, ND. This event has become a yearly thing, every summer during the third weekend of July I go golfing group of guys that I know, this years group numbered 20. This year the guy that sets up this weekend worked out a deal for us to play at the Dakota Winds golf course. The price tag for this golf weekend: three nights and five rounds of golf grand total $255.00.
The Course
If a person were to use one word to describe this golf course it would be unbelievable. Every hole is unique and has a different challenge facing you, there are huge deep bunkers lining each fairway and green. The Dakota Winds Sisseston golf course from the tips is a whooping 7000 yards long, but that doesn't end there. For the golfers that are less skilled like myself (I am a 17 USGA handicap) your challenge from the White tees is still a modest 6500 yards long. Basically this golf course is not a short course by anyone standards, some of the courses that I have golfed over the years are 6500 yards from the tips. The fairways on most holes are wide but a way ward shot will punish you and you are almost certain to card a double or triple bogey for misfired shots. You have to think your way around the golf course, and I advise playing the smart shot or your score will balloon quickly. Duff a shot and you will be hitting a long iron or a wood into the small greens that course has. Hitting long irons or woods to the greens only spells more trouble if you have the propensity push or pull your golf shots. I have been known to hit a gradual fade.
There is a lot of long fescue and there are many pot ponds posted all over the course, all of which seem to be where a bogey golfer hit their shots. Over the course of the weekend I lost at least a dozen golf balls, most of which were nice balls straight out my bag that had never been hit. I am sure they will end up in the recycled ball jar at the golf course later this season. The sand traps were just like I like them hard but if you hit your shot thin you might hit the lip of the bunker your trying to get out of. Here are a few of the holes that really caught my eye.
The Hole of the Course
Hole 2
The second hole is a 462 yard par four that has a invisible pond guarding the fairway. This is by far the longest par 4 that I have ever played. The first time I played this hole I launched a drive down the left side only to discover that I had the deposited my new ball into the pond. Now on your second shot if you are able to hit your approach shot to the green there is a bunker guarding the green on the left and another pond guarding the green on the left. Once you get to the green, that in its self is another challenge, the green is severely slopped green that can add more challenge if you go bombing past the hole. I was able to make a couple of bogies on this hole and one time ended up carding a tripple bogey seven after attempting a putt for par.
One Tough Par Three
Hole 6
This hole was a monster, and bogey is a good score. The hole is 137 yards long from the whites and if the wind is blowing it plays longer and harder. I hit an 8 iron to this green all 5 times that I played this hole and ended up with a different result each time. You either hit the green or end up in the water or if your lucky enough to miss the water you might end up in a very deep bunker on the left side of the green. Miss the green or the bunker and your dropping your ball, because there is no room for error. I lost a few balls on this hole. The green itself is another story and it slopes and funnels to the rear. I literally say one of my playing partners sink about a 45 foot par putt.
Monster Par Five
Hole 16
Hole number 16 is one of the hardest holes that I have ever played as far as par fives go. Its 548 yards long and seems longer, you literally could go driver three wood four iron into the green if the wind is blowing from the west. There is water on both sides of the fairway and the green is very small guarded by two bunkers. I did manage to birdie this hole the only one that I made all weekend. That time down the fairway I smashed my drive about 280, on my second shot hit a low screaming three wood and then hit a 8 iron to 2 feet on the approach. Yep I did have to putt this one.
Affordable Golf
The golf course is affordable the price is around $45.00 with a cart I do believe that there is a twilight rate and you can walk the course for $35.00. If you’re a person that likes to tip back a few while you golf the price of drinks is unbelievable. Mixed drinks were around 3 dollars and a six pack of beer was $15.00 a steal if you are used to golfing in the Red River Valley. The PGA Professional Nick Wimer is a class act and very easy to work with I recommend giving him a call. Call 1-800-325-6825, ext. 546 for all the Stay & Play Packages.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
A picture can paint a 1000 words.
4-3Even after 3 months the smile can not be removed from my face, the score board says it all. Actually, I may have to go to the Dr and have it surgically removed. Nah, I think I will leave it there for now. I will use it for motivation. Maybe when ever my golf game is in the crapper I will just pull out this picture from my golf bag. I mean really I have $1500.00 in golf club and I can't put together consecutive good golf shots back to back for 18 holes, make that 9 holes.
The memories of this day was like Christmas coming early. The Shock and pandamonia of 5,000 cocky Gopher fans being deflated all at once. Then a large cheer for Holy Cross. An opportunity lost. I would classify it as the loss of the century. The biggest thing to happen for Holy Cross in their short division one history.
Sieve, Sieve, Sieve
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Goon's Ramblings 7-18-2006
I had the opportunity to play in the 9th annual Galen Nagle Memorial Golf Tournament that was held at the beautiful Bemidji Town and Country. The golf tournament was a fundraiser for BSU hockey in honor of the late Former BSU Goalie Galen Nagle. The tournament was held at Castle Highlands in Turtle River until moving to the Bemidji Town and Country Club. I think this is a fabulous idea because there is no comparison between the two courses. BTCC is hands down a better course.
I had the honor of meeting this fine gentleman back in the early 1990's when I worked at Castle Highlands golf course during my college days. Galen was truly a great person.
I played with the Galen Nagle Memorial Golf Tournament with Scott “the Commish” Williams the television voice of the Beaver Hockey team, his brother-in-law Cole Jacobson, Eric Gilbertson and Scott Robbins. Even with me on the team; our team still finished in 5th place out of 39 teams. Two of our teammates Robbins and Gilbertson were great golfers and could flat out play, and were members at BTCC. The rest of us made some great shots and putts at key times.
History of the Galen Nagle Memorial Golf Tournament
The Galen Nagle Memorial Golf Tournament began in 1997 in an effort to build the Galen Nagle Endowment Fund.
Nagle, who was a goaltender for the Beavers from 1980-84, went on to serve as a coach and teacher in Minnesota for several years before losing his life to cancer Oct. 18, 1994 at the age of 34.
Nagle was a member of the historical 1984 national championship team at BSU. He earned an 8-1 victory between the pipes to cap off the perfect 31-0 season.
Galen exemplified Beaver hockey, said former BSU men’s hockey coach and athletic director R.H. Bob Peters. “Hard work, dedication and loyalty were inherent to his character, and through his efforts, he became a vital part of our team.
Nagle, a native of Baudette, Minn., graduated from BSU in 1984 and was a 1980 graduate of Bemidji High School.
Golf the Bemidji Town and Country Club
BTCC
I strongly advise anybody visiting the Bemidji to consider playing the Bemidji Town and Country Club, if you can afford dropping $50.00 bucks on a round of golf to go ahead and play this course, you will not be disappointed. Words just can't explain this course, and my description of this course will do it not justice, seriously this course is unbelievable and in awesome shape, in my opinion nothing in Grand Forks even comes close to this course and I play on Kings Walk (no Offense to Kings Walk). I am not kidding. The fairways at BTCC are like walking on carpet in a mansion. There isn't more than two greens that are flat on this course, the person that designed this course was an absolute genius. I know Joel Goldstrand made some improvements on it during the 1990’s but I am not sure if Goldstand is the one who should get the credit for the greens design. My only complaint on the whole course is that the greens are just a little slow after playing out at Kings Walk its hard to judge the speeds. I suppose with the hot weather the greens superintendent doesn't want to burn up his beautiful greens by cutting them any lower or with all the different slopes on the greens making them faster might make the course too hard to play for higher handicap players. Either way I can't fault them for that.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Toews to return to UND?
ToewsLong Off Season
I have to admit that I really hate the offseason, that voidd where there is no hockey for like another 3 months. The offseason that the various message boards turn into a giant moronathon. A classic example of what I am talking aboutThis offseason is especially tough causing me much angst and causing me to be on the cusp of a nervous wreck. This tough offseason started almost at the beginning of the last horn of UND's Frozen Four appearance. Since that horn the Fighting Sioux hockey team has looked more like a sinking ship with many players making the jump to the next level.
It seems like every available draft choice is heading for the exits with big money waiting in the wings. Now again I don't fault these kids for taking the money, I would do the same thing in a heart bea, but it really has been a tough offseason to take, its worse than the offseason when we lost Zach. Hockey Futures Article However, cross your fingers there may actually be some good news.
The Hawks have one of the top rated groups of future talent (ranked 4th by Hockey’s Future) and this class should help build on an already talented core.
Jonathan Toews, C/W – Univ of North Dakota (NCAA)
3rd overall, 6’1 195
In picking Jonathan Toews, the Hawks made a ‘safe’ pick of a player who was the most complete forward in the draft, eschewing the flashier Phil Kessel and Niklas Backstrom. The youngest player in college hockey (born April 29, 1988), the 6’1, 195 lb center was second among all college freshmen in scoring with 22 goals, including nine goals on the power play. He also finished third on the team with a plus/minus of +20. Before North Dakota, he played with the highly-regarded Shattuck-St. Mary’s program.
Toews’ stock skyrocketed in the second half of the season as he helped the Fighting Sioux capture the Broadmoor Cup (WCHA Playoff Championship) as well as earn a berth in the NCAA Tournament. He scored 27 points (15 goals, 12 assists) in his final 24 games of the season. Toews’ memorable performance in the NCAA Tournament West Regional earned MVP honors, as his two goals and three assists helped lead North Dakota to their second consecutive Frozen Four appearance.
In 2005, he captained Canada’s Team Western to a gold medal at the World U-17 Tournament in Lethbridge, AB as well as earned tournament’s MVP honor. In 2003, Toews was the top selection in the WHL Bantam Draft, taken by the Tri-City Americans. But he opted to go the NCAA route rather than the major junior route.
Toews will continue with North Dakota in 2006-07.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Local Driver Comes Close in NST Finale
NST Night TwoLocal Driver Comes Close in NST Finale
Local Driver Mark Dobmeier was going into the weekend trying to make a strong impression on the National Sprint Tour and probably walked away successfully doing that. Mark ran strong all weekend finishing 8th on Friday night and 4th on Saturday night. Mark was the local highest finisher all weekend.
Mark improved on Friday nights strong finish and again he trilled the hometown crowd by making multiple attempts at taking the lead from NST Veteran Danny Lasoski before giving way to 11K Driver Tim Kaeding and R-19 driver Jason Solwold. Dobmeier finished the feature in fourth place.
The rest of Mark Dobmeier's night was just as successful as Mark finished first in his heat race and second in the dash. Mark Dobmeier brought the River Cities crowd to their off their seats and to their feat with his strong finish in the dash.
Mark Dobmeier to the big time
My brother-in law asked me when I predicted that Mark Dobmeier would make the jump up and join one of the traveling circuits like the NST or the World of Outlaws racing circuits. I think Mark should or could make the jump next season, in the goon’s opinion the kid is ready, however its all about being able to afford it and getting the right financial backing. If Mark has someone step up and sponser him Mark can be successful on either circuit. Mark has run strong with the big boys all season and there is no reason he can’t be successful with a full time ride.
Some of the best racing I have ever seen
I have watched a lot of races at the action track (River Cities Speedway) in Grand Forks, ND and have seen a good number of races in Fargo, ND (Red River Valley Speedway); in my opinion this was the best sprint car driving I have ever watched, there is no debating it, Sorry RRVS. That being said RRVS is probably one of the fastest dirt track in the country, however, it just isn’t as racy as the track as RCS. On a bull ring like RCS you have to be able to drive and work your way through lap traffic. That was the major difference between Lasoski and Dobmeier on Saturday night, in time Mark will gain the edge that Lasoski has.
Local drivers missing from top 12 in final race.
Mark Dobmeier was the only non-traveler to make the top 12 as the NST driver took 11 of the 12 top spots. Greg Nititenko was the next highest finisher at 14th place followed by local youngster Casey Mack.
A-Feature Finish 7-8-06
1 DANNY LASOSKI 83
2 TIM KAEDING 11K
3 JASON SOLWOLD R19
4 Mark Dobmeier 13
5 SHANE STEWART 26
6 JASON MEYERS 14
7 STEVE KINSER 11
8 DEAN JACOBS 6
9 PAUL McMAHAN 20
10 JASON SIDES 7S
11 BRIAN PAULUS 28
12 KERRY MADSEN 11H
13 Bill Balog 1H
14 Greg Nititenko 6N
15 Casey Mack 8
16 Tim Mulvaney 3
17 Tom Egeland 14x
18 Lou Kennedy 21K
19 Jade Fredrickson 41
20 Scott Butz 34
21 Johnn Cressman 56
22 Dave Sobczak 17
23 Scott McDonald 33
24 Bob Martin 10TR
* Lap 23 caution : 34 is off the track in 3 & 4 (Restarts)
* Lap 24 caution: 56 off the track in 3 & 4 (Restarts)
* Lap 35 caution: 28 is off the track in 1 & 2 (Restarts)
Saturday, July 08, 2006
Goon's Ramblins 7-08-2006
This weeks Installment of Goon’s Ramblings
Goon's World Hits the Dirt Tracks
To some people’s shock: From time to time Goon's World will also cover racing during the summer. The off season can be very depressing, all there is to cover during this time transaction of former NCAA players and UND Fighting Sioux players leaving for greener pastures of professional hockey. The Goon enjoying dirt track racing and can be found many of Friday nights sitting in the stands at River Cities Speedway enjoying a Mike’s Hard Lemonade or a Miller Lite and watching racing. River Cities Speedway
Although River Cities Speedway is not Knoxville Raceway it does offer a good race program at an affordable price $12.00 a ticket if you buy them at one of the stores that sells race tickets. The El-Roco sells race tickets in its liquor store.
Player Leaving for the Pro’s
While it appears that Wisconsin up to this point had gone unscathed by players leaving early for the pros it is now being reported by the Wisconsin State Journal that Badger underclassman Joe Pavelski is considering a jump to the next level.
This development would be a serious blow to the Badgers hockey team, Pavelski scores big goals at big times and is one of the more talented underclassmen on the Badgers hockey team. While I hate to see players leaving college early I don’t fault these kids for taking the money or entertaining the idea of improving their lot in life.
Elliot staying at Wisconsin for now?
The same newspaper is reporting that Badger Goalie Brian Elliot will be staying put in Madison for his senior season.
While I earlier I had put Elliot on the Watch it was done so as more of a fishing expedition due to boredom. I was even quoted in Wisconsin Hockey Blog I personally predict that Elliot is still about 60/40. Elliot holds all the cards and I doubt that the Senators would risk losing Brain if he is not signed by August 15th of 2007. At that time Elliot could take offers as from any club if the Senators don’t sign him.
Golf Etiquette
Most of us are not scratch golfers or will we ever be. We play golf for the love of the game and as a way of killing time. It’s a hobby. Nothing makes me more upset than slow play and golfers with bad etiquette. I like to play quick and do not let the grass grow under my spikes.
Recently, I had the misfortune of following a very slow group of players. There were four older gentlemen all walking and all were having trouble staying the fairway, most of the time they were touring the fescue and taking forever on each hole. The course I play is Kings Walk Golf Course in Grand Forks, ND Kings Walk and on a windy day It can be very challenging and very long, its not for the faint of heart. When the wind blows the greens speed up and it can be possible to go driver, three wood eight iron to reach a 400 yard par 4. Using long irons and woods increases the possibility of a wayward shot and a high number. The grounds staff has smartly put red hazards stakes by the fescue on some of the harder longer holes, however, this doesn’t keep players from spending forever looking for their balls in the long grass of the courses various hazzards. My suggestion is when the course is busy and you can’t find your ball in a reasonable amount of time, take your drop and stroke and move on don’t continue looking for a ball that is not going to be found. The balls that go into the fescue grass become buried under the long grass and won’t be found unless you step on it. The difference between a bogey and a double bogey is not going to affect your score that much nor is it going to make much of a difference in the grand scheme of things.
When your playing group is slower than the group in front of you let them play through. Remember as each group stacks up behind you on the tee box your slow play is affecting others speed of play as well. In other words your throwing their games off too. Don’t glare at people when they hit into you, pick up your speed of play. Don’t take their balls or hit it back at them, its only going to cause more problems and cause more shots to be hit into your group. It should take no longer than 2 hours to play nine holes of golf.
Lastly when you finish putting, put the flag back in the cup and clear the green, don’t count strokes or put your score on the card, do that on the next tee. As soon as the green clears the group behind you will be ready to shoot their approach shot and the people on the tees behind them will be able to hit their tee shots.
Goon's World Hits the Dirt Tracks
To some people’s shock: From time to time Goon's World will also cover racing during the summer. The off season can be very depressing, all there is to cover during this time transaction of former NCAA players and UND Fighting Sioux players leaving for greener pastures of professional hockey. The Goon enjoying dirt track racing and can be found many of Friday nights sitting in the stands at River Cities Speedway enjoying a Mike’s Hard Lemonade or a Miller Lite and watching racing. River Cities Speedway
Although River Cities Speedway is not Knoxville Raceway it does offer a good race program at an affordable price $12.00 a ticket if you buy them at one of the stores that sells race tickets. The El-Roco sells race tickets in its liquor store.
Player Leaving for the Pro’s
While it appears that Wisconsin up to this point had gone unscathed by players leaving early for the pros it is now being reported by the Wisconsin State Journal that Badger underclassman Joe Pavelski is considering a jump to the next level.
Center Joe Pavelski, a junior-to-be who led the Badgers in scoring the last two seasons, is engaged in talks with the San Jose Sharks that could result in him signing an NHL contract this summer.
This development would be a serious blow to the Badgers hockey team, Pavelski scores big goals at big times and is one of the more talented underclassmen on the Badgers hockey team. While I hate to see players leaving college early I don’t fault these kids for taking the money or entertaining the idea of improving their lot in life.
Elliot staying at Wisconsin for now?
The same newspaper is reporting that Badger Goalie Brian Elliot will be staying put in Madison for his senior season.
There is further evidence that the University of Wisconsin men's hockey team will retain the services of record-setting goaltender Brian Elliott for the coming season. Elliott recently took part in a prospects camp sponsored by the Ottawa Senators, who picked Elliott in the ninth round (291st overall) of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.
Elliott, 21, was one of four goaltenders at the camp, which requires that U.S. college players or prospects pay their own way in order to retain their NCAA eligibility. A senior-to-be, Elliott showed Ottawa officials why he set UW records for goals-against average (1.55), save percentage (.938) and shutouts (eight) last season en route to being a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award. Bill Elliott, Brian's father, said he spoke with Senators officials during the camp, and they said they were happy with how his son was developing at UW. "He's going to be back there (at Wisconsin)," Bill Elliott said of his son.
While I earlier I had put Elliot on the Watch it was done so as more of a fishing expedition due to boredom. I was even quoted in Wisconsin Hockey Blog I personally predict that Elliot is still about 60/40. Elliot holds all the cards and I doubt that the Senators would risk losing Brain if he is not signed by August 15th of 2007. At that time Elliot could take offers as from any club if the Senators don’t sign him.
Golf Etiquette
Most of us are not scratch golfers or will we ever be. We play golf for the love of the game and as a way of killing time. It’s a hobby. Nothing makes me more upset than slow play and golfers with bad etiquette. I like to play quick and do not let the grass grow under my spikes.
Recently, I had the misfortune of following a very slow group of players. There were four older gentlemen all walking and all were having trouble staying the fairway, most of the time they were touring the fescue and taking forever on each hole. The course I play is Kings Walk Golf Course in Grand Forks, ND Kings Walk and on a windy day It can be very challenging and very long, its not for the faint of heart. When the wind blows the greens speed up and it can be possible to go driver, three wood eight iron to reach a 400 yard par 4. Using long irons and woods increases the possibility of a wayward shot and a high number. The grounds staff has smartly put red hazards stakes by the fescue on some of the harder longer holes, however, this doesn’t keep players from spending forever looking for their balls in the long grass of the courses various hazzards. My suggestion is when the course is busy and you can’t find your ball in a reasonable amount of time, take your drop and stroke and move on don’t continue looking for a ball that is not going to be found. The balls that go into the fescue grass become buried under the long grass and won’t be found unless you step on it. The difference between a bogey and a double bogey is not going to affect your score that much nor is it going to make much of a difference in the grand scheme of things.
When your playing group is slower than the group in front of you let them play through. Remember as each group stacks up behind you on the tee box your slow play is affecting others speed of play as well. In other words your throwing their games off too. Don’t glare at people when they hit into you, pick up your speed of play. Don’t take their balls or hit it back at them, its only going to cause more problems and cause more shots to be hit into your group. It should take no longer than 2 hours to play nine holes of golf.
Lastly when you finish putting, put the flag back in the cup and clear the green, don’t count strokes or put your score on the card, do that on the next tee. As soon as the green clears the group behind you will be ready to shoot their approach shot and the people on the tees behind them will be able to hit their tee shots.
Kaeding takes round one.
Tim Kaeding Drives Like a Genius to Win Night One.
Steve Kinser hired Tim Kaeding in the off season to drive the 11K Maxim and Tim Kaeding has not disappointed his new Boss Steve Kinser as Kaeding picked another feature win, winning the inaugural NST feature at River Cities Speedway on Friday night. This was the first time the NST has come to North Dakota and the only appearance that the NST will make this season in North Dakota (I hope a return trip is already being worked out by Donny Mack).
While it looked as if the feature event would be rained out, in the end the River Cities fans were not cheated. While watching the Late Models feature a light rain suddenly appeared at the River Cities Speedway (I swear a cloud always hangs over my head). At first it appeared as if the rain would never end, however, the light rain was short lived, causing a delay of about 30 minutes. Due to the quick thinking of the RCS grounds crew, as soon as the rain appeared the RCS pace truck driver motioned to the other trucks in the RCS infield to start driving around the track to pack in the much needed moisture. Due to the diligence and quick thinking of this track worker/official, the RCS crew was able to work the track into near perfect conditions, before the features the track had become a dry slick and need a serious drink of water. So mother-nature was good to RCS and luckily after the rain stopped falling the track was in near perfect conditions. In my opinion I would say the inaugural NST feature in North Dakota was an instant classic.
Night of Firsts
Last night was the first appearance of the NST North Dakota during the inaugural season. Last night was the first time the NST has raced in North Dakota (eat that Fargo, ND). This was also the first time the 20 time former World of Outlaws Champion has ever ran in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Steve Kinser’s first race in Grand Forks was a heat race, which Steve won. In Steve Kinser first feature at RCS he finished in third place.
Kinser is a Class Act
Kinser is definitely a favorite of the fans in Grand Forks, ND. On Thursday night Steve Kinser was present at the meet and great and stood out front of the River Cities Speedway in the in 90 degree weather to pose for numerous pictures, sign hundred of autographs on placards, hats, balls (no I am not kidding, Steve Kinser signed a soccer ball) and tee shirts. Steve Kinser is definitely a class act who is very approachable and pictures of Steve Kinser and his sprint car will be appearing soon on Goon’s World very soon.
How Kaeding ended up in the 11K
Tim Kaeding replaced Kraig Kinser used to drive the 11K Maxim but is now racing on the NASCAR Craftsman Truck SeriesKinser Craftsman Truck Stats. Kinser is 29th in series points and is currently 5 spots behind former WoO driver Erin Crocker.
Not New to the Winners Circle
Tim Kaeding is leading the NST sprint car series with 8 feature wins and is still only 31 points behind Danny “the Dude” Lasoski for the National Sprint Tour points standing lead. Kinser and Lasoski both have 4 feature wins each. Kinser is also leading the NST series with the most second place finishes.
NST Link
Mark Dobmeier is on a Tear
DobmeierIt is the Opinion of Goon’s World: Mark Dobmeier is by far the best sprint car driver at the River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks if not the best driver on the NOSA circuit. First off: Mark has won 5 features at River Cities Speedway this season, while no other driver has won more than one race at RCS this season. Second: At times Mark has been so dominating, blowing the competition away by multiple car lengths leaving the competition in the dirt looking for seconds, At times it hasn’t even been funny as Mark has made the others look like fillers or also rans. Lastly it’s not just a local thing: Mark has taken the good driving on the road and been consistent all season.
Huset’s Points Leaders
Mark is also leading the points race at Husets Speedway by 6 points ahead of Jake Peters and leads the Huset’s Speedway (Brandon South Dakota, 320 miles from Grand Forks on I-90) with three feature wins. Huset’s Speedway is one of the most competitive best tracks in the upper Midwest if not the nation. Mark also finished 7th recently at a World out Outlaws feature in Eagle Nebraska and is currently 34th on the World of Outlaws points standings. Marks WoO Standings
New Bleachers Rule
RCS added new bleachers to the east at the RCS speedway this past spring and I must say that these new bleachers are totally awesome. Sitting in these seats you can see the whole race without having to strain your neck. Also, I probably should be telling anybody about these seat because next thing you know they will be full and we will have end up sitting in our old seats. The new bleachers sit high about turn one of the RCS speedway and the only obstacle is when the its really sunny it can get very hot in the east bleachers. Of course you know this won’t be a problem long because the days get shorter in August and we lose about a half hour of light by the end of the month.
A-Feature Finish 7-7-06
Pos First Last No.
1 TIM KAEDING 11K
2 JASON SOLWOLD R19
3 STEVE KINSER 11
4 DANNY LASOSKI 83
5 JASON MEYERS 14
6 DEAN JACOBS 6
7 BRIAN PAULUS 28
8 Mark Dobmeier 13
9 Dave Sobczak 17
10 KERRY MADSEN 11H
11 SHANE STEWART 26
12 PAUL McMAHAN 20
13 JASON SIDES 7S
14 Casey Mack 8
15 Greg Nititenko 6N
16 Bob Martin 10TR
17 Wade Nygaard 9
18 Tim Mulvaney 3
19 Dave Glennon 5x
20 Chris Shirek 1
21 Johnn Cressman 56
22 Lou Kennedy 21K
23 Bill Balog 1H
24 Chris Burke 81
Lap Leaders:
Jason Solwald R19 -- Laps (1-7)
Steve Kinser 11 -- Laps (21-23)
Tim Kaeding 11K -- Laps (8-20), (24-30)
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Its Official Jordan Parise Signs with New Jersey.
Star Goalie foregoes his senior year of elgibility
It has been rummored for sometime now but it became official just in the past day or so. Jordan Parise has signed a professional contract to play with the New Jersey Devils system.
Press Release from GDI the Goaltender
Parise signs with Devils...GDI's Jordan Parise signed a two-year deal with the New Jersey Devils.
The New Jersey Devils signed GDI goaltender Jordan Parise to a two-year contract when the free agent market opened up on July 1.
Parise had another great season between the pipes for North Dakota. He guided the Sioux to the NCAA's final four for the second consecutive year.
Goon's Perspective on the Parise Signing
First off Jordan's signing a pro contract is a shock to no one because it had been rumored in the media for some time now, almost since the sesaon ended. That being said, Jordan's signing causes a big hole in the Fighting Sioux roster, Jordan was the cog in the Sioux defense. Jordan Parise has been a stalwart in UND's past two Frozen Four playoff runs and his leadership will be missed by the Sioux hockey team.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Lets get it on. The Big Boys are coming to town.
Tyler WalkerTyler doesn't show at NST Show
Apparently Tyler Walker forgot to show up for the NST show in Grand Forks on Friday night after telling the fans he planned on running the NST Show.
NST Makes it debut in Grand Forks on Friday
The 7th and 8th of July marks the debut of the National Sprint Tour. This is s must see show if you are a WoO fan or a dirt track racing fan. The National Sprint Tour formed last winter after a few of the WoO drivers broke away from WoO and formed their own Sprint Car racing league. Taking the King of the OutLaws Steve Kinser with them.
NST Kinser Last Hurrah
There is a rumor going around that this is going to be Steve Kinser last year racing full time in a Sprint Car. The latest is that Kinser is going to retire this winter and Run the newly formed NST. The promoter Fred Browsfield of the newly formed Sprint Car League was killed a few weeks ago during an on track incident in Grays Harbor Speedway Washington. Brownsfield was Killed while lining up cars for a D Feature. Brownsfield was only 53 years old.
NST
NST WEB Page
The Offical Press Release on the NST
Introducing the National Sprint Tour!
Brownfield Promotions, Inc. is pleased and excited to announce the formation of the National Sprint Tour with plans to promote dirt track Sprint Car racing nationally starting with the 2006 season.
The new National Sprint Tour will feature many of the best sprint car drivers and teams in the world and bring the best in 410 winged Sprint Car racing to tracks throughout the country.
Teams and drivers committed to racing with the National Sprint Tour in 2006 include Danny Lasoski (Roth Motorsports), Jason Meyers (Elite Racing), Brian Paulus (P and P Motorsports), Woodward Racing’s Volcano Joe’s #2, Steve Kinser (Steve Kinser Racing), Shane Stewart (Rudeen Racing), Tim Shaffer (Parsons Motorsports), Brandon Wimmer (Two Winners Racing), Jason Solwold (Lon Carnahan Motorsports), Jason Sides (Sides Motorsports) and Lucas Wolfe (David Helm/Selma Shell Racing).
When asked his opinion on the formation of the National Sprint Tour, race team representative attorney John Deckard commented, “These dozen or so teams and drivers represent the majority of the very best the sport has to offer. Some of them are like ‘fine wine’; others are young Turks ready to explode. The real winners are going to be the fans. The race program itself will be much more exciting, and of course, they’ll get to see the likes of The Dude, Jason Meyers, Shane, The King, Brian, Jason, Tim and all the rest that stand on 800 horsepower of dynamite to get to the front. I can’t wait. You wanted the best; here they are!”
“I’m excited that something’s finally going to happen here,” commented Steve “The King” Kinser. “I’ve had lots of ups and downs over what’s happened here this winter,” continued the Bloomington, IN driver, “and I feel very fortunate to be a part of starting the series although it is going to be a tough thing. But, I think overall it is the best for what is happening and we are going to make it work.”
“On behalf of myself and Dennis Roth Motorsports we’re really excited to take on this endeavor with this new series to come out,” said Danny “The Dude” Lasoski of Dover, MO. “I feel we are racing the best of the best in the United States and I’m sure we gotta crawl before we walk. I think all the fans out there are going to understand that we are trying to make this sport bigger and better and I support it wholeheartedly.”
"I think this will be good for the whole sport in getting Fred Brownfield behind the new group" commented Jason Sides of Bartlett, TN. “Everyone knows that Fred promotes good racing and we believe it will succeed. I’m really looking forward to the new season.”
Bixby, OK driver Shane Stewart commented, “Working with Fred has always been a privilege, and once they get the National Sprint Tour introduced to the tracks and fans everything should be fine. Maybe the Pettys dropping out of the other group was a good thing as it allows the Brownfield involvement. I know Rudeen Racing and myself are ready for a change and we are looking forward to what we think will be a success.”
“I think this is a really neat and pretty exciting deal,” said Tim Shaffer from Aliquippa, PA. “As a successful businessman, promoter and former driver, Fred has a great background to bring this new deal to the racers. Having been on both sides of the fence, he can understand the wants and desires of both the tracks and the drivers. I also think it is great the way the drivers and everyone is working together to make this a success.”
“There has obviously been a need for a change in the world of Sprint Car racing for the last couple of years,” said Brian Paulus of Mechanicsburg, PA. “Something needed to change. We needed somebody that had the passion about this that wanted to be as instrumental about it as the teams themselves. For Fred to get involved and step up to the plate at this stage of the game is pretty important to all of us teams. He is someone we all trust and respect and I think his rapport with the tracks and promoters will be a step in the right direction. One thing I hope the fans get out of this in the long run is that none of our teams, including Kinser and Lasoski, did this for the money. Look at our teams and all the time and effort we are putting in to this to make it successful; we’ve all pretty much laid our careers on the line with this when we all could have just signed on the line and gone back to race where we came from. We are all willing to do this to race for less money, less tow money and probably fewer dates. We are willing to do this to make the sport better in the long run and it might not be in the next year or two but if the tracks and fans support us in five or six years it could be huge.”
Monday, July 03, 2006
Elliot Watch is offically on.
Badger Goalie ElliotElliot Watch is officially on.
Because it is summer and I have nothing better to do and my golf game is already in midseason form I am offically starting the Elliot watch. Although Badger fans are assuring everyone that Elliot that he is safe and returning for his senior season I say B.S. Elliot is a top line goalie that has to have pro scouts drowling all over them selves. Elliot was by far the best goalie in college hockey this past season. In fact Elliot has nothing to gain by coming back for another season. Elliots stock also couldn't be higher. I know Badger fans are worried because Elliots backup Shane Connelly is brutal and with him as the starter the Badgers are not the same team.
The View of INCH
Brian Elliott, Wisconsin (Ottawa Senators)
The Senators don’t need to rush a goaltender to the NHL level – 23-year-old Ray Emery seems ready to take the reins from Dominik Hasek, who may or may not be back as an unrestricted free agent. Elliott has said the right things about coming back, but he doesn’t have anything to prove at the college level, and goalies almost always need a year or two of AHL seasoning. A change of heart wouldn’t be a shock
Friday, June 30, 2006
River Cities Speedway.
Natalie Sathers Sprint CarNatalie Sather: Not just a pretty Face.
Since Red River Valley Speedway dumped its sprints program this season, River Cities Speedway fans have been given a bigger field of sprint cars for their nightly Friday night show. One of the drivers making the trip from Fargo, ND has been Fargo’s up and coming female sprint car driver Natalie Sather. Natalie Sather is teamed up with
Hall of Fame Crew Chief and Car Owner Kenny Woodruff. Althought Natalie is an
Natalie attractive young lady the woman can flat out drive and has added another good sprint car driver to the River Cities line up. Natalie's strongest finish at River Cities Speedway was on May 30th when she finished 3rd in the feature, where 18 other guys can say hey I got beat by a woman. Natalie has also raced on the ASCS. ASCS
Thursday, June 29, 2006
The Jordan Parise Watch is On.
Jordan PariseThe Parise Watch is on
It has been reported that Fighting Sioux goalie Jordan Parise will be signing a Professional contract at the free agent signing date that is on July 1st. This is a huge loss for the Fighting Sioux hockey team. Parise has been stellar leading UND to two consecutive frozen fours. Jordan will be missed if he does in fact forgo his final year.
Parise Career Stats: A Hard Act to Follow.
Jordan Parise posted some pretty impressive numbers over his three season.
Parise this past season elevated himself to one of UND's best all-time goaltenders.
GP Save% GAA Record Win%
1 Jordan Parise JR 83 .921 2.14 55-20- 7 .713
1st - Career save percentage (.921)
1st - Career goals against average (2.14)
2nd - Career wins (55)
2nd - Career shutouts (10)
3rd - Career winning percentage (.713)
6th - Career games played (83)
(as posted on Fighting Sioux Sports)
Jordan's Leaving, hurts UND's Chances
If Jordan leaves the Fighting Sioux hockey team it is a huge loss to UND's Chances of Making it to the Frozen Four for a third year in a row. That being said I still have confidence in the Fighting Sioux defense and the players they have returning.
Elliot Watch officially on.
Badger fans are hoping that their star shut down goalie is not leaving to go pro. Personally I think Elliot has nothing to gain and should go pro. So offically Goon's world has put Elliot on the list. THE ELLIOT WATCH is Officially on.
For Old Time Sake
Goon's World would like to take this oportunity to say one more time for old time sake that Jordan Parise is by far a better goaltender than Kellin Briggs, in fact Philippe Lamoureux is a better goaltender that Kellin Briggs.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Mike Commodore on Wikipedia.
Mike in a Calgary UniformCommodore on Wikipedia
I found this will surfing the web tonight. It actually very interesting.
Mike's Link
Sprint Car Racing at its best. The NST comes to Grand Forks.
The Dude Lasoski's CarNST Tour Hits Grand Forks July 7th and 8th.
Next weekend the National Sprint tour makes its inaugural trip to River Cities Speedway. The NST was created this past winter after a few drivers from the World of Outlaws broke away from dirt motorsports to form a separate sprint car tour. The race will feature some of the countries top sprint car drivers known to dirt track nationally. Recently during June the The River Cities Speedway had a non-sanctioned sprint car race. Tyler Walker, Danny Lasoski and Greg Wilson (All Stars Circuit of Champions Points leader)
Greg Wilson's Car and crew ChiefAt the end of the Night former NASCAR BUSCH Series driver Tyler Walker won the race and ended up taking home $5000.00 for the victory. Tyler has been driving the Guy Forbrook car (Mark Kinser old car) and said he plans to be back for the National Sprint Tour event in July. People might ask me where I got this information? I heard this when a fan asked him in the pits after the race at River Cities Speedway if he was going to be back in July? Tyler said, that he would be back.
Tyler Walker's Sprint Car
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Bruins Dump Mike Sullivan as coach of Bruins.
Bruins relieve Mike Sullivan of coaching duties
The Boston Bruins announced today that Mike Sullivan has been relieved of his duties as Head Coach of the team. The announcement was made by Bruins Interim General Manager Jeff Gorton.
"Peter had not met Mike prior to coming to Boston and he felt that it was incumbent upon him to get to know Mike before making a decision on the coaching situation," said Gorton. "Mike went to Ottawa a couple of weeks ago and they had a good discussion about the game and how it needed to be played in order to have success. Peter advised Mike that he would be talking to other candidates. He went through that process and his decision was that at this time we are better served to have a clean slate."
"Peter communicated to us that he has talked to candidates and expects to give us his decision on a new head coach in the near future," continued Gorton.
Goon's World Opinion on the matter.
As a Bruins fan it was frustrating watching the Bruins play this past season. They were competitive but made some bone headed moves during the season. Trading Joe Thornton broke my heart and had me rethinking my allegiance to the Bruins franchise. I think dumping Sullivan was the right call, the Bruins a once proud franchise can not afford to be finishing in the cellar every season, losing is unacceptable. The Bruin's have not won a Stanley Cup since the 1970's and need to make some big changes if they are to once again make a run at Lord Stanley Cup.
The Boston Bruins announced today that Mike Sullivan has been relieved of his duties as Head Coach of the team. The announcement was made by Bruins Interim General Manager Jeff Gorton.
"Peter had not met Mike prior to coming to Boston and he felt that it was incumbent upon him to get to know Mike before making a decision on the coaching situation," said Gorton. "Mike went to Ottawa a couple of weeks ago and they had a good discussion about the game and how it needed to be played in order to have success. Peter advised Mike that he would be talking to other candidates. He went through that process and his decision was that at this time we are better served to have a clean slate."
"Peter communicated to us that he has talked to candidates and expects to give us his decision on a new head coach in the near future," continued Gorton.
Goon's World Opinion on the matter.
As a Bruins fan it was frustrating watching the Bruins play this past season. They were competitive but made some bone headed moves during the season. Trading Joe Thornton broke my heart and had me rethinking my allegiance to the Bruins franchise. I think dumping Sullivan was the right call, the Bruins a once proud franchise can not afford to be finishing in the cellar every season, losing is unacceptable. The Bruin's have not won a Stanley Cup since the 1970's and need to make some big changes if they are to once again make a run at Lord Stanley Cup.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Roli give Peca a Break.
Link to Roli's great play
Wether you like Roli or Pecca or not, this is a good play.
Check out this play this is an awesome play by Roli the goalie. When asked if Roli was going to resign with the Oilers in the off season Dwayne Roloson was non-comital. I will wait and see what free agency brings me. Add to this that Chris Pronger has asked to be traded. I suppose he wants to go back to St Louis and play with Erik Johnson.
Wether you like Roli or Pecca or not, this is a good play.
Check out this play this is an awesome play by Roli the goalie. When asked if Roli was going to resign with the Oilers in the off season Dwayne Roloson was non-comital. I will wait and see what free agency brings me. Add to this that Chris Pronger has asked to be traded. I suppose he wants to go back to St Louis and play with Erik Johnson.
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