Hocktoberfest, 2008 - Windsor, Ontario. 80 Teams

It’s No Trick…
Windsor Is In For A Treat This Halloween!

This year, the international community trades in regular Halloween masks for hockey masks as athletes and spectators from across the globe converge on Windsor and Essex County for HOCKtoberfest 2008.

Some of the most talented female hockey players from Canada, Europe and the United States will come together to bring you “HOCKtoberfest” 2008--a celebration of female hockey! Teams will be traveling from Barrie, Toronto, Ottawa, Wisconsin, New York, Arizona, California and even the U.K., just to name a few.

“HOCKtoberfest is estimated to generate over $3.5 million to the local Windsor economy,” says Catherine Murphy, Director, Media & Public Relations for HOCKtoberfest 2008.

The ice heats up at South Windsor Arena, The Vollmer Complex, Forest Glade Arena, Tecumseh Arena and the new WFCU arena, as over 80 teams gather October 30th until November 2nd for four days of great hockey and cultural, educational and special events.

Link to Article

Old School Coaches by Drew Lane

Old School Coaches

In Play! Magazine
By Drew Lane

I love old school coaches. Maybe I’m showing my age as we all eventually pine for the way things used to be. Sometimes I worry that we’re spoiling our kids, but when you compare that to what is going on with today’s athletes it makes our kids look straight out of the Depression era.

Terrell Owens is an outstanding wideout, period, but surely I’m not the only one who experienced unfettered and unexplainable joy when the Eagles and Andy Reid (not the perfect “old school” model I’m talking about) said nobody will put themselves ahead of my team, so take your tired act somewhere else.

Naturally, Dallas grabbed him, “made it rain” with T.O. Dollars, and the self centered superstar has lived to enjoy another stage and spotlight.

Even on television pregame and post game shows, I love old schools shit-kickers like Mike Ditka calling out talented stars who take plays off or put themselves ahead of the team.

Right here in southeast Michigan we’ve had more than our share of “old school” coaches. Scotty Bowman struck fear in his players and the media as well. Lloyd Carr always stuck up for his “kids” but wasn’t afraid to pull the trigger when a Braylon Edwards type was phoning it in or not giving 100% in practice. While the Piston didn’t always do it with a smile, old school Larry Brown did get them to do it the “right way”, which brought consecutive finals appearances.

Link to article

A Separation Of Church And Sport

Publisher’s Note, October 2008
A Separation Of Church And Sport
By Jack Rosenberg

“Thank you Lord for letting me get around that cornerback and get open to score this touchdown...thank you Lord.”

“Lord grant me the wisdom to know which way the left guard is going to pull so I can go the other way.”

As he crosses himself stepping up to the plate, “Lord give me the strength to hit this ball over the right field fence and lead my team to victory.”

Well by now you probably know where I’m going with this or you are so offended you have turned the page.

Religion in sports --is there a place for it? Will somebody please put an end to this? If you can’t throw up signs to the camera in the NFL why is it ok to kneel down and pray?

What’s the difference between crossing yourself and throwing up a sign to the camera guy forcing tens of millions of people to witness? In principle they are both the same thing aren’t they; a ritual, a form of communication.

Link to article

TIGERS AND THE 68 HEROES by 31-6 Denny McLain

TIGERS AND THE 68 HEROES
In Play! Magzaine
By 31-6 Denny McLain

Allow me to first thank everyone for all of the great stories and memories that you have shared with me this year regarding our 1968 World Series Championship.
While I have not been invited to the Fantasy Camp, cruise ships and other Tigers events, I will be forever a guy more thankful than most to you and your memories of the past.
The 1968 club did more for the city of Detroit and the State of Michigan than any other team in history.
The fans are inspiring and their memories are incredible because most of the time I can’t recall what I had for breakfast (with the exception of my Twinkies!), let alone the memories you have shared with me from 40 years ago.
What I have missed this year is being able to visit with Norm Cash, our Manager Mayo Smith, Joe Sparma, Ray Oyler and others who are in the “Great Baseball Park in the Sky.”
What a great time the reunion would have been with those characters!
As for the rest of us, Bill Freehan still looks like he can play, and I ask you, how can a guy who was an All Star more than 10 times be denied the Hall Of Fame?
I have never understood that, they put in Phil Rizutto, Goose Gossage, Rollie Fingers, Bill Mazerowski and even some Managers who sit on their butts that hope and pray the 25 guys out there save their Manager’s job each year. I could name another 25 if given enough space here in this story.
Man if they would only let me change the system huh?
The Ovation that we received from fans at Comerica on June 24 for the Reunion Celebration was overwhelming for me and the fan turnout for autographs that night was just the greatest toast that you could have given any of us, it was truly wonderful.

Link to Article

Sean Baligian - OHL Edition

Sean Baligian - 1130 am WDFN
for In Play! Magazine

Guelph Storm
by Sean Baligian

As any fan of the OHL can tell you in the past few years, getting 2 points from Guelph is always going to take work. The Storm worked very hard on a night-by-night basis under Dave Barr, and it seems to continue under Jason Brooks so far this year. The Storm are off to a 4-0 start this year, and Detroit Red Wing first round draft choice Thomas McCollum had himself quite the weekend. McCollum played 3 games in 3 days and stopped 98 of 104 shots in picking up wins against Erie and London, and a road kill in Plymouth. The Storm have nice depth up front, and with a goaltender like McCollum, could be the type of team to pull a series win, or 3 come playoff time. Keep an eye on this squad in the next few weeks, I liked what I saw out of them on Saturday night.

Read more blogs by Sean Baligian...
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewforum.php?f=26

DETROIT SHOCK ADVANCE TO WNBA FINALS FOR FOURTH TIME

DETROIT SHOCK ADVANCE TO WNBA FINALS FOR FOURTH TIME

Shock to Host Game 3 at EMU and Game 4 at The Palace of Auburn Hills

Auburn Hills, MI - The Detroit Shock advanced to the WNBA finals for the fourth time in the team’s 11-year history Monday evening with an 75-73 win over the New York Liberty in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals.
The Shock will start the best of five series on the road with game 1 on Wednesday and game 2 on Friday in San Antonio. They will return home to Eastern Michigan University’s Convocation Center on Sunday, October 5, then back to the Palace of Auburn Hills for game 4 if necessary on Monday, October 6.
For game 3, Eastern Michigan University students, faculty and staff will be eligible for a limited amount of free general admission tickets by showing a valid I.D. at the Convocation Center box office.
Detroit Shock tickets for the WNBA Finals can be purchased at The Palace Box Office, online at www.detroitshock.com <http://www.detroitshock.com/>, by calling 248-377-0100 or at any TicketMaster outlet. In addition tickets will be available at Eastern Michigan University's Convocation Center box office. EMU box office hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to tip off on game days. Shock tickets can also be purchased over the phone through EMU by calling (734) 487-2282 Monday through Friday 10a.m. - 9 p.m.

The game schedule for the 2008 WNBA Finals is as follows (all times Eastern): Game Date Teams Location Time TV Game 1 Wed., Oct. 1 Detroit at San Antonio AT&T Center 7:30 p.m. ESPN2 Game 2 Fri., Oct. 3 Detroit at San Antonio AT&T Center 7:30 p.m. ESPN2 Game 3 Sun., Oct. 5 San Antonio at Detroit Eastern Michigan University 4:30 p.m. ESPN2 Game 4* Mon., Oct. 6 San Antonio at Detroit The Palace of Auburn Hills 7:30 p.m. ESPN2 Game 5* Thurs., Oct. 9 Detroit at San Antonio AT&T Center 7:30 p.m. ESPN2

TODD JONES ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

TODD JONES ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT
TIGERS TO HONOR ALL-TIME SAVES LEADER IN PRE-GAME CEREMONY ON SATURDAYDETROIT – Tigers pitcher Todd Jones today announced his retirement after 16 seasons at the major league level, including eight with the Detroit Tigers.“This is the culmination of 35 years in baseball for me,” Jones said. “Detroit was a big part of my career and I’ll be a Tiger through and through. From the bottom of my heart, I can’t express what it was like to be a Tiger.”

Read More...
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=255

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM LIONS ON THE MATT MILLEN FIRING

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM LIONS ON THE MATT MILLEN FIRING

MATT MILLEN RELIEVED OF DUTIES AS LIONS PRESIDENT AND CEO


Allen Park, Mich.—Detroit Lions Owner and Chairman William Clay Ford announced today that Matt Millen has been relieved of his duties as President and CEO effective immediately.

Executive Vice President and COO Tom Lewand will now report directly to Mr. Ford on all business, organizational and NFL matters.

Martin Mayhew will assume the role of General Manager and report directly to Mr. Ford on all football matters. Additionally, Cedric Saunders has been named the Vice President of Football Operations.

“I have relieved Matt Millen of his duties effective immediately,” said Lions Owner and Chairman William Clay Ford. “I believe that this decision is in the best interest of this organization. I appreciate Matt’s efforts. Matt worked tirelessly during his tenure to win, and he would be the first one to tell you that you have to win in this league. It just didn’t work out...

Read more...
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=250

WHEN YOU CHOP THE HEAD OFF A SNAKE IT STILL MOVES!

WHEN YOU CHOP THE HEAD OFF A SNAKE IT STILL MOVES!

Lions Insider
In Play! Magazine
Photo by Jack Rosenberg

Well Lions fans we got what we have wished for, now what?

I think the Lions can’t do any worse, but will it fix things? Well it’s a start.

Head Coach Rod Marinelli’s press conference this week seems to be a little more subdued than last week’s referring to the “Magic wand” comment.

When asked yesterday what he had to say about Ford Jr’s comments Head Coach Rod Marinelli had this to say "I just came out of meetings and he (spokesman Bill Keenist) just informed me of the article, and I have no comment on it, and I'll leave it at that."

Understandably what is he going to say about his boss?

Getting back to Marinelli; when asked if the franchise should stay the course he replied:"In terms of what I'm doing? Stay the course, yeah. Keep working at it. (I've been) meeting all day with these guys and had the chance to self evaluate."

That’s scary to me. The Lions are 0-3 so the coach thinks they should keep doing what we have been to get them to this point?

Last Sunday FOX Sports commentator Michael Strahan made a comment to the affect that the Lions lacked heart during the 49er’s game.
I don’t think you need a professional to point this out this observation. My girlfriend said the exact same thing while the game was on and she is only a part time observer.

Marinelli says this concerning the Strahan comment, "You know, I don't. There's perception and reality and the perceptions is what people see and look at, but I know what's up. I've just got to loosen them up a little bit. They've got to relax and just go play."


Here’s my “perception and reality” and it’s pretty simple so any coach or GM feel free to use it and turn the team around and claim it as your own idea.

Remember the episode of Seinfeld where George Kastanza decided to do the exact opposite of everything he believed to be the correct thing to do...

Read more...
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=249

What do we take from the first OHL weekend?

What do we take from the first OHL weekend?
Sean Baligian - Morning host 1130 AM, WDFN
For - In Play! Magazine

What do we take from the first weekend?
As any fan of the OHL knows, its tough to gauge "what might be" for many clubs for a very simple reason: Many teams are missing key components to their squad. With the NHL camps just recently getting under way, the guys whose draft rights are owned by NHL clubs are busy trying to make an impression for their respective NHL clubs to be. With that said, if a team gets off to a strong start with some key players missing in action, that could very well be a sign of a darn good team.

Read more...
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=26&t=240

Detroit Lions... The Saga Continues.

In Play! Magazine
Lions Insider

Photo By Michael Niziolek

These are sad days here in Detroit for Lions fans.

I have so many emails asking "Why does Matt Millen still have a job?"
To tell you the truth I don't know.

In most corporations any GM that can not produce a viable product would be out on the street in no time; let alone still walking around the hallways eight years later!

When will this train wreck end? I am literally befuddled at the lack of common sense and total disregard for everything!

Why is it so complicated, what is so hard to understand?
You have a losing team, you have losing coaches, you have losing players.
At this point I don't think the waterboy deserves a job!

It is well past the time to clean house!
Everyone, everybody in sight!
What is the worst that is going to happen? They lose.

Why do we continue to watch this crap!
This is not even worth wasting three hours of my Sunday anymore!

I compare a Lions football game to Evel Knievel's infamous 1967 jump over the fountains at Caesars Palace.

It looks good for the first 30 seconds...but you know what's going to happen in the end.
And when it does; you cringe every time. (Enter Knievel tumbling across the Sand's parking lot and bouncing off the wall, laying there motionless all busted up)

That's how I spend my Sunday afternoon. Yelling at the TV!
"STOP! DON'T DO IT!" " YOU'RE NOT GOING TO MAKE IT!...STOP!"

For the love of football fans, all creatures large and small.

Do something with this team!

Read more Lions Fans
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewforum.php?f=16&sid=f7b8e1933c6edfb68ac9b553da0d7aa7

OLD TIGER STADIUM CONSERVANCY ANNOUNCES FUNDRAISER SERIES

OLD TIGER STADIUM CONSERVANCY ANNOUNCES FUNDRAISER SERIES
Photo: David L. Malhalab M News Service

DETROIT – The Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy is announcing a series of fundraising events in support of their mission to preserve, restore and revitalize the beloved Michigan & Trumbull ballpark venue that played home to the National Pastime from 1896 to 1999. The project to re-develop Tiger Stadium is an unprecedented opportunity for historic preservation and will enable Detroit to become a destination for baseball fans from across the country.

Now that the City of Detroit has completed the demolition phase of the project, leaving intact the original Navin Field grandstand and playing grounds, the Conservancy seeks public support to help provide for the security of the site and other pre-development costs. To date, over $27,000 has been raised in online contributions toward the goal of reaching $69,000 in donations by mid-October.

Long term funding for the $15M project is ongoing, with an expected $4M in federal appropriations earmarked for urban development and community outreach in Corktown, Detroit’s oldest neighborhood.

Additionally, $5M in pledges in the form of historic preservation and economic stimulus tax credits is targeted while the balance is sought in community grants from regional philanthropic foundations and investments from commercial developers.

Read more
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=236

BACK TO BUSINESS FOR DEFENDING STANLEY CUP CHAMPION RED WINGS

BACK TO BUSINESS FOR DEFENDING STANLEY CUP CHAMPION RED WINGS
George Sipple
DETROIT FREE PRESS

"The Red Wings were supposed to watch home videos of Sylvester Stallone on Thursday’s bus ride to Traverse City. Instead, they had to settle for regular old movies. Chris Chelios planned to bring a video of the Stanley Cup party he threw in Malibu for teammates to watch on the five-hour trip to training camp. Chelios said the beach party was attended by several celebrities, including Stallone…After a summer of celebration with the Cup, the Wings get back to business this weekend."

More Red Wings...
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewforum.php?f=17

DEF LEPPARD TO ROCK THE FOX FOR WINGS OPENER!

DEF LEPPARD TO ROCK THE FOX FOR WINGS OPENER!

(DETROIT– September 19, 2008) — The National Hockey League (NHL) will launch the 2008-09 season with NHL Face-Off Rocks™ 2008, an opening day spectacular headlined by the world’s greatest arena rock band, Def Leppard, at the Fox Theatre at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 9. The multi-platinum selling rock band will open the night with a special performance of their arena-inspired hit single, “C’mon, C’mon” from the Fox Theatre in Detroit, followed by the raising of the Detroit Red Wings’ 2008 Stanley Cup™ Championship banner prior to the start of their sold-out home opener against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Joe Louis Arena. VERSUS and CBC will air portions of the performance as part of their broadcasts of the Red Wings game in the U.S. and Canada, respectively. NHL.com and CBCSports.ca will provide live streaming coverage of the concert, giving fans around the world the chance to take part in the season-opening festivities. Fans in attendance at Fox Theatre will be treated to a broadcast of the Red Wings game, including the championship banner-raising ceremony, an exclusive arena rock show performance from Def Leppard of the band’s smash hits and songs from their latest album, “Songs From The Sparkle Lounge,” and a performance from a soon-to-be-announced special guest. A deejay will entertain the audience throughout the event.

Read more...
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=17&t=235

RED WINGS DEPART FOR CAMP TODAY

RED WINGS DEPART FOR CAMP TODAY…
Defense of 11th Stanley Cup Begins With 11th Annual Traverse City Camp …Detroit, MI…The Detroit Red Wings begin preparations for the defense of the franchise’s 11th Stanley Cup this Thursday, Sept. 18 when the team departs for Training Camp from the Joe Louis Arena.

The following day (9/19), the entire Detroit team will hold a charity golf outing and dinner at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. On-ice workouts run from Saturday, Sept. 20 through Tuesday, Sept 23. Players will be divided into three teams named ABEL, DELVECCHIO and SAWCHUK, with the first group taking the ice at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Monday’s schedule includes a 4:00 pm practice followed by a Gold Medal game at 6:00 pm. On Tuesday, the Wings place a twist on the traditional “Red vs. White” game by renaming the Training Camp’s final two teams HOWE and LINDSAY. The TEAM HOWE vs. TEAM LINDSAY GAME will begin at 6:00 pm at the Center ICE Arena. The Red Wings will depart for Detroit immediately following the game.

Read More Red Wings
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewforum.php?f=17

TIGERS RELEASE 2009 HOME SCHEDULE

TIGERS RELEASE 2009 HOME SCHEDULE
Cubs, Red Sox and Yankees Visit Comerica Park

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today released their 2009 home schedule, which features 81 games at Comerica Park, including contests against American League Central Division rivals, Interleague games against the Chicago Cubs, Colorado Rockies, and Milwaukee Brewers, as well as a three-game series versus the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees.A charter member of the American League since 1901, the Tigers will begin their 108th season on the road as they visit the Toronto Blue Jays for a four-game series, April 6-9 at Rogers Centre.

Read more for home opener info
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=233&p=425#p425

RED WINGS AND FORWARD DARREN McCARTY AGREE TO ONE-YEAR DEAL

RED WINGS AND FORWARD DARREN McCARTY AGREE TO ONE-YEAR DEAL
…Veteran Winger Returns For His Thirteenth Season In Hockeytown…

Detroit, MI… Detroit Red Wings general manager Ken Holland announced today that the club has agreed to terms with forward Darren McCarty on a one-year contract. In keeping with team policy, additional terms of the deal were not disclosed.

McCarty, 36, re-joined the Red Wings organization in February of 2008 after spending two seasons with the Calgary Flames. A 15-year NHL veteran, he played in three games for Detroit last season registering 1 assist and 2 PIM. McCarty also appeared in 17 postseason games during the Red Wings’ 2008 Stanley Cup championship run. He finished the playoffs with 2 points (1 goal, 1 assist) and 19 PIM. McCarty spent the first 11 seasons of his NHL career in Detroit.

Read more Red Wings
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewforum.php?f=17

Windsor Spitfires Announce Captains for the Upcoming Season

Windsor Spitfires Announce Captains for the Upcoming Season

(Windsor) The Windsor Spitfires are proud to announce that the team has selected its captains for the upcoming season. The captains were selected by Spitfires General Manager Warren Rychel, Head Coach Bob Boughner, Associate Coach Bob Jones and Assistant Coach D.J. Smith. Spitfire forward Joshua Bailey will serve as the team captain with forwards Adam Henrique and Greg Nemisz as well as defenseman Harry Young being named assistant captains.

Read more
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=24&t=231

"It Is What It Is" by Sean Baligian

"It Is What It Is"
by Sean Baligian
WDFN 1130 AM
For - In Play! Magazine

Welcome!
First off, let me welcome all fans of the Ontario Hockey League to the site. If you are reading this far, then you know what I already know: The Ontario Hockey League just might be the best brand of hockey out there today! I have been blessed in the past few years to be involved with broadcasts for the Plymouth Whalers and the Saginaw Spirit. I currently do commentary for Whalers TV, and I am looking forward to another great season in the O for 2008-2009.

There are so many questions leading into the 2008-2009 campaign, questions that will start to be answered as the season starts Wednesday Night up in Saginaw as the Knights and Spirit open up the season. The past couple of years have seen the Western Conference take control of the OHL and go on to advance to the Memorial Cup. Hopes are high around the league for many teams, but might just be at their zenith in Belleville and in Windsor. The Bulls have the outstanding Mike Murphy in net, and look to take the next step in their progression, while the Spits have a hi-octane offense led by Josh Bailey and the dynamic young phenom, Taylor Hall.

As any OHL fan can tell you, there are no guarentees in this league, and the trade deadline can always change the balance of power across the league, but If I were a betting man, I would start with Belleville in the East and Windsor in the West. So lets just sit back and enjoy what is sure to be yet another great season of hockey in the OHL and see how it plays out. I am really looking forward to sharing my thoughts with other OHL fans here, and look forward to hearing from many of you as the season progresses as we will be here all the way to the Memorial Cup!

Thanks, Sean Baligian

Blog with Sean Baligian here!
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewforum.php?f=26

STANLEY CUP JOURNAL: BRAD STUART

STANLEY CUP JOURNAL
BRAD STUART

Kevin Shea writes on HHOF.COM, "Rocky Mountain House is a small but beautiful town in west-central Alberta. The historic spot served as an important trading post during Canada's rugged and rustic early development, and when a transcontinental railway was built in the late-19th century, the steam engines stopped at Rocky Mountain House on their trips further west. While Brad Stuart made the two-and-a-half hour drive from Calgary to Rocky Mountain House, he had arranged for the helicopter to make a scheduled stop at Upper Ram Falls, a stunning locale nestled in a canyon in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It's a spot that time seemingly has forgotten — beautiful and virtually untouched. The helicopter dropped down vertically onto a ledge near the Falls, and with the Stanley Cup in tow, looked out over a rainbow."

SPITFIRES “FINAL YEAR AT THE BARN” HOME OPENER PARTY

SPITFIRES “FINAL YEAR AT THE BARN” HOME OPENER PARTY

Spitfires “Final Year at the Barn” Home Opener Party in theWater World Parking Lot – Sep. 25, 2008(Windsor) The Windsor Spitfires, AM800 CKLW, McDonald’s, The Beach Sports Bar and Grill, Molson’s and Festival Tent & Party Rentals Inc. will be hosting the “Final Year at the Barn” pre-game party in the Water World parking lot located on the east side of Windsor Arena before the Spitfires home opening game on Thursday, September 25th from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

The party will feature a beer tent sponsored by Molson and the Beach Sports Bar and Grill, with 89X Radio on-site. The McDonald’s Sports Zone will also be part of the party and the Windsor Spitfires will host a family activity tent, providing complimentary tattoos to children. Steve Bell and Paul MacDonald of AM800 CKLW will also be hosting a special pre-game show from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. on-air.

Read more
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=24&t=227

DETROIT LIONS GAME 2 THOUGHTS

DETROIT LIONS GAME 2 THOUGHTS
In Play! Magazine
Lions Insider

Well after this Sunday’s loss against Green Bay and the Lions sitting at 0-2, I wanted to take a look at some notable quotes from the Lions press conference today.

When asked if he saw QB Jon Kitna take his helmet off and walk off the field while a play was still going on Marinelli says "No, I didn't see that. I'd like to see it before I respond to it."

In case you were wondering, Marinelli has no plans to make any changes at the QB position either, he says "I wouldn't do any of that right now" referring to benching Kitna.

Lions fans as far as this upcoming game against SF...It’s NOT a must win game. Yep you heard me; don’t kill the messenger. I know this sounds ridiculous but according to the head coach this Sunday's game is not a "must-win", Marinelli says "No. It's not. It's one game; we play 16. This is game No. 3."

If you are wondering why Lions GM Matt Millen has not chimed in to the media on the progress of the team Marinelli says "It's all on me. It starts right here, nobody else. I talk to that team, I coach that team; it all starts right here, and that's what leadership is about. It's on me. And we have a bad game, bad play, storm is brewing, it's my job to keep an even keel and move forward with it. It's all on me. It's not on anybody else. Me."

As far as roster changes go, Marinelli does not have the final say, Matt Millen does! Marinelli does say "Yeah, but I have input a lot; but every guy that's here, I've had a hand on that, and that's on me."

Read more
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=225

RED WINGS TO TOUR MICHIGAN SEPTEMBER 18TH

RED WINGS TO TOUR MICHIGAN SEPTEMBER 18TH...

Photo by Brian St. Pierre

Cleary, Draper, Lebda, Filppula, Osgood, Kronwall, Zetterberg To Headline…Special Stanley Cup Appearances Scheduled…Detroit… The Detroit Red Wings today announced an exclusive Red Wings tour will make its way through Michigan on Thursday, September 18th as Stanley Cup Champions Dan Cleary, Kris Draper, Valtteri Filppula, Niklas Kronwall, Brett Lebda, Chris Osgood and Henrik Zetterberg will join fans throughout Michigan for a day of Red Wings rallying and fun. Cleary, Draper, Lebda and Osgood will make stops in Clinton Township and Saginaw while Filppula, Kronwall and Zetterberg will greet fans in Lansing and Grand Rapids. The coveted Stanley Cup is scheduled to appear at select locations.

Times and locations...
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=17&t=224

A DIFFERENT STORY FOR EVERYONE AT MICHIGAN INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY’S SPIRIT OF AMERICA BLOOD DRIVE

A DIFFERENT STORY FOR EVERYONE AT MICHIGAN INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY’S SPIRIT OF AMERICA BLOOD DRIVE

BROOKLYN, Mich. (Sept. 11, 2008) – As over 1,000 people show up for their appointments for the Spirit of America Blood Drive at Michigan International Speedway on September 11, each person has a unique story about their history of donating blood.

While some people donate regularly and others for the first time, the Spirit of America Blood Drive brings everyone together for two common goals – to donate blood and honor the tragedies of 9-11. It is an event that has shown tremendous success since its inception in 2002 and grown to become one of the largest single-day 9-11 blood drives in the nation.

As the lines to donate grew throughout the day, many people got the opportunity to talk with their fellow donors as they wait for their number to be called. The stories that come from these conversations are inspiring, which makes the Spirit of America Blood Drive what it is – an inspiration for people to take time out of their busy schedules to donate blood.

“I started attending the Spirit of America Blood Drive three years ago and I really enjoy coming back every year,” Dennis Karlson of Farwell, Mich. said. “I am a regular donor [every 56 days] and it’s important for me to take part in this event. I’ve been giving blood since 1992 and I’ve never donated at a drive that brings so many people together like this one. It truly is a special day and a great way to honor 9-11.”

Read more...
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=212

DETROIT LIONS REACH SELLOUT FOR 2008 HOME OPENER

DETROIT LIONS REACH SELLOUT FOR 2008 HOME OPENER
SEPTEMBER 11, 2008
11:40 AM

Allen Park, Mich. - The Detroit Lions have reached a sellout for Sunday's 2008 home opener against NFC North rival Green Bay Packers. By reaching a sellout by today's 1 p.m. deadline, Sunday's game will air live in the local television markets (Metro Detroit, Lansing, Saginaw/Flint and Toledo markets), including WJBK-TV FOX 2.

"We appreciate our fans and their continued enthusiasm for this team," said Lions Executive Vice President and COO Tom Lewand. "Without their support in purchasing a large amount of the remaining tickets for Sunday, we would not have been in the position to partner with Gardner-White to reach a sellout. Many thanks go out to our fans and Gardner-White for this Sunday's game airing live in Metro Detroit."

Sunday's sellout marks the 50th consecutive sellout for the Lions, including every regular season home game since the Lions opened Ford Field in 2002. Sunday's game is the 49th regular season home game that reached a sellout at Ford Field.

GO LIONS!

RED WINGS RE-SIGN DEFENSEMEN CHRIS CHELIOS

RED WINGS RE-SIGN DEFENSEMEN CHRIS CHELIOS AND KYLE QUINCEY TO NEW DEALS
Tuesday Sept 9, 2008 - 5:28PM

…Detroit continues to bolster an already deep blue-line…

Detroit, MI… Detroit Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland announced today that the club has re-signed two defensemen, inking Chris Chelios to a one-year deal and Kyle Quincey to a two-year deal. In keeping with team policy, additional terms of each deal were not disclosed.
Chelios is entering his 25th season in the National Hockey League and 10th with the Red Wings. In 2007-08, Chelios became the oldest U.S. born player and second oldest player in NHL history (Gordie Howe). He moved into sixth place on the all-time games played list with 1,616. During the 2008 playoffs he passed Patrick Roy to become the all-time leader in postseason games played (260). Chelios leads all active NHL defensemen in assists (763) and points (948).
Read more in our Red Wings Fan Forum...

Read more...
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=17&t=219

SHOULD CHRIS CHELIOS STEP DOWN?
VOTE...
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=17&t=220

HONORING VETERANS: TRAVELING TRIBUTE WALL COMING TO MIS

HONORING VETERANS: TRAVELING TRIBUTE WALL COMING TO MIS

Wall on display in Motorsports Fan Plaza from Sept. 10-14; Special ceremony to be held on Sept. 11
BROOKLYN, Mich. (Sept. 9, 2008) ­— A special American Veterans Traveling Tribute Wall will make an appearance at Michigan International Speedway on Sept. 10-14, which will include a special 9-11 tribute ceremony on Thursday, September 11.The display opens at noon Wednesday and is free to the public. The wall is available for viewing each day until Sunday.“We’re excited and proud to have the American Veterans Traveling Tribute Wall on display here at MIS,” MIS Director of Government and Community Relations Alisha Cottrell said. “This is a wonderful opportunity for people to visit and pay respect to those who served and lost their lives fighting for the United States of America.”

Read more
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=218

LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN EMBARKS ON 750-MILE RUN FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN

LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN EMBARKS ON 750-MILE RUN FROM COPPER HARBOR TO STERLING HEIGHTS

(MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich.) Sept. 7, 2008 – The 27th Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run treks across Michigan Monday, Sept. 8 through Friday, Sept. 12 law enforcement and correctional facilities members team up to raise funds for Special Olympics Michigan.

The 750-mile run began noon Monday, Sept. 8 in Copper Harbor and will run down state to the Sterling Heights Fraternal Order of Police Lodge. The run is scheduled to arrive at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12.

Three teams will complete the 24-hour-a-day, five-day relay. Teams of six are from the Michigan State Police, Michigan Department of Corrections and Fraternal Order of Police.

“We are very excited to have such a dedicated group of individuals support Special Olympic Athletes,” said Lois Arnold, Chief Executive Officer of Special Olympics Michigan. “This event is an example of how one person can make a difference. Every dollar raised changes lives.”

Read more

http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=215

NEXT ROUND OF MIS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS APPROVED

NEXT ROUND OF MIS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS APPROVED

BROOKLYN, Mich. (Sept. 8, 2008) ­— With an additional $7 million approved for various capital improvement projects for the 2009 season, Michigan International Speedway is once again investing in its property to enhance the fans race experience.With the additional spending, MIS will have spent approximately $20 million total on improvements for fans since 2006.Projects scheduled for completion before the 2009 season will include “phase 3” of the improved grandstand seating in Turn 1, continued installation of way-finding signage around the MIS property and a new state-of-the-art sound system. All projects are a direct result of fan feedback and a progressive effort from the speedway to make the race experience better for its fans.“These projects are a continuation of what we’ve been trying to accomplish over the past three years, and that’s to give our fans the best experience possible when they visit with us each summer,” MIS President Roger Curtis said. “We are proud that we have been able to spend $20 million since 2006 to better enhance that experience. Fans choose to spend their vacation dollars with us every year, so it only makes sense to invest back into the facility to make it better for them.”

Read more
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=214

MAGGLIO ORDOÑEZ NAMED 2008 ROBERTO CLEMENTE AWARD WINNER

MAGGLIO ORDOÑEZ NAMED 2008 ROBERTO CLEMENTE AWARD WINNER

Photo by Jack Rosenberg

Magglio Ordoñez today (Sept 3) was named the Detroit Tigers’ recipient of the 2008 Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevy. He is one of 30 Major League Club nominees for the national 2008 Roberto Clemente Award, which is given annually to the Major League Baseball player who combines outstanding skills on the baseball field with devoted work in the community. Tomorrow will mark the seventh annual Roberto Clemente Day, which was established by Major League Baseball in 2002 to honor the legacy of Roberto Clemente. The Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevy, is part of Chevy’s official sponsorship of Major League Baseball, and recognizes those players who best represent the game of baseball through sportsmanship, community involvement and positive contributions to their teams. The award is named for Clemente, a 12-time All-Star and Hall of Famer who died on New Year’s Eve 1972 while attempting to deliver supplies to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. This award perpetuates Clemente’s legacy and character by recognizing current-day players who truly understand the value of helping others.

Read more

http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=213&p=397#p397

SPITFIRES PAY TRIBUTE TO MICKEY RENAUD BY RETIRING THE #18

Windsor Spitfires to Pay Tribute to #18 Mickey Renaud by Retiring the #18 at the September 25th, 2008 Home Opener

(Windsor) The Windsor Spitfires today announced that the team will retire Mickey Renaud’s #18 in a special pre-game ceremony prior to the commencement of the Spitfires regular season home opening game at Windsor Arena on Thursday, September 25th, 2008 versus the Sarnia Sting. Game time is set for 7:05 pm. The Windsor Spitfires encourage all fans attending the game to be in their seats for 6:50 p.m.

Read more

http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=24&t=117

HOW NOT TO UFC

BLACKHAWKS' BOWMAN WELCOMES AN OLD FRIEND

BLACKHAWKS' BOWMAN WELCOMES AN OLD FRIEND
Scott Burnside
ESPN.COM
Photo by Jack Rosenberg

"When the Stanley Cup arrives at Scotty Bowman's comfortable home outside Buffalo, the greatest coach of all time is in the shower after an early-morning round of golf with his son, Stan. Bowman's wife of 39 years, Suella, is in her work clothes trying to get the backyard ready for guests..."

Read more

http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=17&t=209

DETROIT LIONS SIGN RB RUDI JOHNSON; RELEASE RB TATUM BELL

DETROIT LIONS SIGN RB RUDI JOHNSON; RELEASE RB TATUM BELL

Detroit Lions announced today that they have signed free agent RB Rudi Johnson to a one-year deal and released RB Tatum Bell. No other contract terms were disclosed.Johnson (5-10, 225) joins the Lions offensive backfield after playing seven seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals. He was quite productive as the Bengals featured back for several years with a blend of speed and power. During his career, he has recorded 5,742 rushing yards on 1,441 attempts (4.0 avg.). He has 48 career rushing touchdowns, including 12 in 2004, 2005 and 2006. As a receiver out of the backfield, he has amassed 101 catches for 588 yards (5.8) and one touchdown. Johnson leaves Cincinnati third on the Bengals’ all-time rushing yards list (5,742) and second on the rushing attempts list (1,441). He also has recorded 19 career 100-yard rushing games.

Link to article
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=207

DETROIT BELLE ISLE GRAND PRIX WINNERS CIRCLE

Top

IRL Rookie Justin Wilson moments after pulling into the Winners Circle after winning the 2008 Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix.

Middle

Justin Wilson (c) Winner

Helio Castroneves (l) Second place

Tony Kanaan (r) Third place

Bottom

Wilson (c) receives the traditional champagne shower from fellow drivers Castroneves (l) and Kanaan

For more great behind the scenes photos from the 2008 Detroit Grand Prix check out our photo gallery here

http://www.michiganinplay.com/gallery.php?gallery_id=0048

DETROIT LIONS NAME 2008 TEAM CAPTAINS

DETROIT LIONS NAME 2008 TEAM CAPTAINS

Team selects Hanson, Kitna, Raiola, Redding and Sims
Detroit Lions Head Coach Rod Marinelli announced today the five team captains for the 2008 season. As selected by a team vote that included both players and coaches, the following players were named captains: K Jason Hanson (special teams), QB Jon Kitna (offense), C Dominic Raiola (offense), DT Cory Redding (defense) and LB Ernie Sims (defense). All five players also served as captains in 2007.

“It’s always a privilege and an honor to be elected and to have a role such as being a captain,” said defensive tackle Cory Redding. “That says a lot about the individuals here connecting their character and the way they play. When tough times arise, the team leans on us. We, as captains, have to take that responsibility.

“It’s not just a cakewalk responsibility. I’m going two years in a row now and obviously I just take pride in what I do. It feels good, and I’m going to do all of the duties that I have to do for this team to help us be better every day and win.”

Hanson, Kitna, Raiola, Redding and Sims will serve as team captains for the entire 2008 season. Each player will wear a team captain patch that includes a block “C” on the right shoulder of their game jerseys. Being named team captain in 2008 marked the third-straight season Kitna, Raiola and Redding have been named team captains.

Read more
http://mymsm.net/MIPForum/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=206