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Very early this morning, I awoke to the blaring of the radio (**Side Note: At this point if anyone were to call me a "glutton for punishment" I'd have to say nothing...other than agreeing with them.**). As I lay there in bed in a half-roused stupor, I caught the most important news I've heard in a month: Charles Wang has finally agreed to meet with Kate Murray and the Town of Hempstead Board to discuss scaling down the Lighthouse Project.
Ever since Charles' hard deadline of October 3rd, the outlook on the Project has been relatively gloomy. From the announcement on Opening Night that Charles was looking at all his options, including selling or moving the team, to the recent false report that the Lighthouse had gotten it's plug pulled, to Suffolk County Executive, Steve Levy, publicly announcing via Newsday (which is owned by Cablevision which owns MSG, who in turn also owns the Rangers) that Suffolk County would be more than happy to take the Islanders in if Nassau and specifically the Town of Hempstead failed to approve re-zoning, to even Sen. Dean Skelos (R-NY) trying to get the process going again. Now, at long last, there seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel.
We've said all along that the Project most likely would not look the same at the end as it did in the many rendered drawings of the site when planning first began. That's how real estate and property negotiations work. The developer, in this case Lighthouse Development Group, is expected to shoot for the moon and throw every possibility into the mix to see what they can get approved. On the flip-side, the local governments who approve the environmental review, in this case the Town of Hempstead, have the job of paring back what they deem to be unnecessary to the core of the property development and a compromise is reached.
Compromise. There's a word we haven't heard much over the course of this long, overdrawn process. It's time to sit down at the bargaining table and hash out the details boys and girls.
Now, there is finally something to rally around. The people of Long Island have done their part to keep the momentum going. Now it's up to the people in charge of the situation to step up to the plate and give the people what they want. It's time to "Meet Me at The Lighthouse!"
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Finally...Compromise
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Thank Goodness That's Over
****UPDATE 12:00PM: I just received the official Press Release from the Lighthouse Development Group. It appears below.****
October 15, 2009
For immediate release
This statement was issued by Charles B. Wang, Principal of Lighthouse Development Group and Owner of the New York Islanders, at 11:30 a.m. today.
“Yesterday’s report on the Lighthouse project which appeared in the Long Island Press is untrue. There are no plans to abandon this project which is so vital to the future of Nassau County and Long Island as a whole.
As far as the status of the Lighthouse project, we have submitted to The Town of Hempstead and Supervisor Kate Murray all the studies and required documents. A lease has been negotiated. Supervisor Murray and the Town Board need to make a decision on the zoning.
Long Island stands in this defining moment waiting for an answer. Yes or no.
Moving forward, we will not discuss any meetings in the media. Any reports of meetings should be considered untrue.
My heart is still on Long Island. I love Long Island. This is where the Islanders belong. Let's play hockey."
I apologize for over-reacting last night to the Long Island Press story on the potential end to the Lighthouse Project proposal.
Charles Wang has come out publicly through a more accredited news source: Newsday, which is owned by Cablevision, who owns Madison Square Garden, which in turn owns the NY Rangers, to state that the Lighthouse Project is still on!
I think the fact that there wasn't any kind of immediate response to the LI Press article is what worried many of us who believe in the Project and in turn maybe we took action too quickly in denouncing the possibility.
Stay up-to-date on every bit of Lighthouse news by keeping it locked here, going to the official blog site and reading my colleagues posts (from the BlogRoll on the left hand side of the screen) and Twitter feeds. We'll keep this situation as updated as possible and let you know if there are any other developments. Let's get the Lighthouse Project approved already!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
All That Blood, Sweat and Tears... And For What?
It's amazing how your personal life sometimes correlates with the goings on of the outside world. Tonight, I had my first Physics exam of the semester. While I was toiling away on said exam, thinking that my world might come crashing down around me if I did poorly, the world surrounding my life on Long Island fell flat on it's face with an audible "thud". The news came pouring in seconds after I had left the classroom: "The Lighthouse Project is dead."
Any one who has read this blog, knows my fervent support for a revitalization of the area surrounding the Nassau Coliseum. Not just to keep my beloved Islanders where they belong, but to give Long Island a new lease on life. Providing people of my generation an opportunity to live, work and grow in the place they've called home for the majority of their lives. All of that came to a possibly sudden conclusion this evening when we learned of Principle Developer Charles Wang's intention to pull the plug on the Lighthouse Project.
To say that I'm saddened and depressed about the subject is an understatement. This was the one chance for me and many like me, to stay here and grow old here. Now it seems, if the news is true, that the dream has faded. The beacon of hope has been shutdown by political squabbling and the inability to compromise. Is this the reason that I've given my blood, my sweat and my tears to see this Project through to approval? All so I could watch it get flushed down the drain like some failed plan for a strip mall that impinges on the landscape of the Island I call my home?
I've had enough. I've invested too much. I don't know how else to feel but betrayed, confused and unsure about when and how this saga will end...
Monday, October 12, 2009
Don't Leave the Kids Home Today!
The Islanders take the ice for their second home game of the season after finishing a disappointing and short road trip to Ontario and Boston. They came away with OT losses in each game and have yet to lose in regulation this season. Today, as Marty Biron gets his second start as an Islander, they look to reverse the trend of taking games the distance and come away with a win in front of a Kid's Day Crowd at Nassau Coliseum. Click the link below for updates throughout the game and for interviews later on this evening once I get home from class. LET'S GO ISLANDERS!
****UPDATE 12:20AM: Check out the rest of the post, which includes my interview with the newest Islander, Robbie Schremp, about how he is adjusting to life on the Isle and the Press Conference with Head Coach Scott Gordon.****
Also, don't miss the posts on today's game from my fellow Blog Box members:
- Dee Karl, the 7th woman who also happens to be on Hockeybuzz, was questioning how size doesn't matter...?
- Mike Schuerlein, Islesblogger, who had a Live Blog going during today's game.
- Ken Dick of Okposo Net recapped how the Isles don't really do too well during day games.
- My buddy Dom over at Lighthouse Hockey had his usual recap.
- Gary from Section 317 wonders if the NYI can finally put together a full 60 minutes of hockey.
...and lastly but certainly not least:
- So what normally brings new fans into hockey? Fighting, right? Well, the kids in the crowd got a taste of the hockey experience when Joel Rechlicz squared off with Raitis Ivanans about halfway through the 1st period. Not much of bout by any means but certainly a statement that Rechlicz is looking to establish himself as the de facto enforcer for the Islanders lineup.
- If you're in my position as an official, fighting is an enigma wrapped in a mystery. It is such an integral part of the game and yet has it's negatives that would almost drive it from the mainstream once someone is gravely injured. This will certainly be a topic that you'll see on here and on Lighthouse Hockey.
- Remember that guy...I think his name was Ryan Smyth? Apparently, Islanders fans haven't forgotten the tearful goodbye in Edmonton and then the "business decision" he made to leave the Island. He got his fair share of jeering when he touched the puck for the first time.
- The Islanders have really looked like a solid hockey club save for a couple periods and bad decisions so far this season. They're generating chances off the forecheck, cycling the puck down low and managing to be relatively defensively sound throughout the lineup.
- Has Rob Schremp made an impression on you, the fans? He certainly has opened my eyes to the possibilities and talent that he brings to the team every time he's on the ice. If he sticks with the team then I have to give major kudos to Garth Snow and the Pro Scouting Team for Schremp's waiver wire pickup. Very impressive.
Period 2
- Marty Biron really looking calm, collected and square to the shooter today. Yet another very good decision by Garth Snow. Not only does Marty bring a very good #1 goalie presence to the ice but a very friendly teammate in the locker room. He just seems like he wants to be here and a part of this team (whether he gets traded sometime during the season or not).
- Guess who is in the middle of quite a few good scoring chances? Rob Schremp. He's really making a great case to be included in the regular lineup on this Islanders squad. I love me some, Schremp! Butterfly Schremp, Schremp toast, Schremp with garlic and butter, Creole Schremp, Asian Schremp...Jeff Tambellini who?
- Dwanye Roloson turns 40 today! Happy Birthday, Dwayne!
- Just for the record, Tim Jackman is not John Tavares!
- With 1:27 remaining in the 2nd and with Blake Comeau in the box for hooking, Anze Kopitar rounded the net and buried one short-side through traffic. A really pretty powerplay goal. Kings take the lead 1-0 into the 3rd.
Period 3
- Drew Doughty shows why he was a Top 5 pick in 2008. He receives a feed at the top of the circle and blows a slapshot by Martin Biron with 14:29 remaining in the 3rd. Stoll and Purcell on the assists. Kings now lead 2-0.
- With the Kings still up with 3:32 left in the 3rd, I'm shutting down the operation for now. I'll try to check back with some interview tidbits after I get back from class tonight. Have a good one, folks!
- Hold the phone! The Isles just scored! With 1:55 left in the 3rd, Matt Moulson gets his second of the season. Okposo and Streit get the assists. The score is now 2-1 Kings. With 1:44 left. the Isles have pulled Marty Biron.
- The Isles put in the effort at the end but it just wasn't enough to overcome the two goal lead. The final score is Kings 2, Isles 1. The overall record for the Islanders season is 0-1-3.
Interviewing the newest Islander: Rob Schremp
There has been a lot of discussion on a couple of Islander blogs about the newest Islander, Rob Schremp. So, I just had to find out for myself how Rob is fitting in to the organization and Scott Gordon's system. Here is the short question and answer from my chat with Rob Schremp after today's game:
IslesOfficial: "How do you feel about Coach Gordon's decision to give you the minutes you were looking for in Edmonton and is it true that a 'change of scenery' really does work for a player?"
Rob Schremp: "Absolutely. It's obviously a privilege to be on the ice, so to get those extra minutes shows the trust from the coach. You obviously have to work to get those minutes so I came in with the mindset that I was gonna work as hard as I could and go from there. Things have been getting better and better and my minutes have been going up too. I'm getting some powerplay responsibility, so it's been really good. It's been really good change (for me)."
IslesOfficial: "What did you think of today's game?"
Rob Schremp: "I felt pretty good tonight. We had a lot of good chances. When you're getting that many chances it's a good sign of your line working together. It's getting better every game."
IslesOfficial: "Everyone knows you for your offensive talents and abilities, how do you think you're fitting in on the defensive end of the ice, away from the puck?"
Rob Schremp: "I feel good. We have a great D-corps here, a lot good veteran defensmen back there and having a good D-corps like that helps us forwards."
Head Coach Scott Gordon's Press Conference 10/12/09
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Closing One Chapter and the Beginning of Another: A Season Preview
Tonight is the night we've all been waiting for since April 14th. It's safe to say that Islander fans have been through the gambit of emotions and turmoil during last season and this subsequent offseason. Now, at the very least, we can finally see some vestiges of hope springing forth from the youthful exuberance of a young man who less than 4 months ago didn't know he would be playing in his first NHL game to a raucous Nassau Coliseum crowd. His name is John Tavares and he's an Islander...
Forwards
There were very few surprises that came out of Saskatoon's training camp. However, there was one that jumped out at everyone: Matt Moulson. Whether it's his childhood connection with John Tavares or him finally making good on the talent he's been given, we'll never know. Frankly, all I want him to do is what he did during the preseason: put the puck in the net.
Enough has been said about the talent of the OHL's all-time leading goal-getter, John Tavares. Now, is the time to make good on all that talent. He's dynamic and he will make mistakes. I urge Islander fans to not see him as a savior but as a very big piece of the whole. Remember, this is a game where if the team competes together they win. If they rely on one or two pieces to get them through, they'll most likely lose. Just ask yourself, "Who scored two of the Penguins goals in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals?" Max Talbot, a third-line player who scored when it counted most.
The rest of the forward corps is pretty much all returning from last year's squad.
Josh Bailey has especially impressed me by his work ethic and willingness to make good on the promises he made after the final game last season: "I want to get stronger, put on some weight and work on my shot", he said. After an offseason that has seen Josh put on nearly 20 pounds of muscle, I'd say he delivered and you will see a marked improvement in his play this year.
Kyle Okposo is yet another player who I'd like to spotlight in his continued efforts to not only show the league that he belongs in the elite power forward category but also display that there is very solid, young leadership on this Islanders squad. If he's able to stay healthy this season, it's not out of the question for Kyle to break the 60 point barrier.
The rest of the forwards are composed of wily veterans like Richard Park, Trent Hunter and newly anointed Captain, Doug Weight. Adding that kind of wisdom to a relatively young and inexperienced group of forwards will certainly be a welcome group of voices in the locker room.
Defense
Here's where the fewest changes were made and the most mystery lies. How will an aging blueline fare in Go-Go's system. Granted d-men like Martinek, Gervais and Streit (last season's point, ice-time and plus-minus leader) will be able to keep up and probably exceed expectations, but what of Brendan Witt. I would hate for him to repeat last year's extreme minus performance(-34). I doubt this will be the case. Brendan is too proud and too much of a warrior to let a season like that happen again.
However, I think the player to watch this season will be towering 6'6" 245lbs. defenseman, Andy Sutton. Last season, Andy came to camp in the best shape of his life and his skating was markedly better than ever. If he can manage to stay healthy, this might be his breakout year. Unfortunately, if he does play well, there is a very good chance that the behemoth will end up on the trading block when the trade deadline rolls around.
Goaltending
When Free Agency began on July 1st, it was a sure-bet guarantee that Garth Snow would be in the market for a goalie. Well, he got his man and more. Dwanye Roloson and Martin Biron (the most surprising free agent pick up of the offseason) will be your goaltenders for the 2009-10 season (or at least until Rick DiPietro gets his act together). Both are very capable #1 keepers and the competition for time between the pipes should be fierce.
This is in stark contrast to the goaltending situation of a year ago. I'm am a huge fan of both Joey MacDonald and Yann Danis. Please, don't get me wrong here. But this is a completely different situation. When a team knows, that the goalie they have in net will bail them out when they goof up, that confidence will influence every aspect of team play.
Not only do Biron and Roloson being the stalwarts in net help on the ice, but they also allow Rick DiPietro, the former face of the franchise, to heal at his own pace and without him having to risk his long-term health on coming back too early. The situation that happened last year with Rick's knee will not be repeated and that can only make Islander fans happy that their management team is taking steps to ensure the rebuild goes forward as planned.
Coaching
Nowhere in this organization has there been such a steady and educated group of coaches than the three taking the helm this season. Head Coach Scott Gordon and his two Assistants Scott Allen and former Islander Dean Chynoweth will be able to keep the system running at full speed all season. With his penchant for teaching younger players how to be professionals, Gordon was tailor-made for this job. Now that most of his core is intact, he can do less teaching of the system and more refining the on-ice product. I think this will be a very good season for these three men behind the bench.
Final Predictions
Yes, I know. The Lighthouse decision looms large on tonight's proceedings as today is Owner Charles Wang's date for "certainty" about the Project. However, I think if tonight, the fans show how passionate and supportive they are of this team and this organization, everything will take care of itself in the end. There is no reason to panic...yet.
As far as the season prediction goes, I believe there will be a healthy improvement over last year's, Last Place, finish (61 points). With the backstoppers to inspire a young group of forwards and a "D" corps that is eager to make up ground that they lost last season due to injury I believe that the final totals will be:
10th place in the Eastern Conference, 4th in the Atlantic Division and 81 points.
Now, let's go out and have some fun and get this 2009-10 season started off on the right foot by beating the Stanley Cup Champion "Flightless Birds"!
See you at the game!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Another "Potential" Lease on Life
I know that most of my content lately has been Lighthouse-centric and for good reason. It's simply the most important facet of anything going on in Islanders Country right now (and quite simply the most newsworthy story out there). So without further ado, I present to you the latest in the long line of small victories the Lighthouse Project has achieved in these past few months: a new "Lease on Life" as it were, from Nassau County!
It has been common knowledge for quite some time that the Lighthouse Development Group has been working with Nassau County on a new Lease Agreement for the Nassau Coliseum site in parallel to the SEQRA Environmental Review being conducted and voted on, by the Town of Hempstead. This is certainly not the end, however. Understand that the tentative Lease Agreement can only be approved once re-zoning and building permits are issued by the Town of Hempstead. That means that there is still work to be done. Here are some of the details of what the new lease will provide:80% of the ticket sales, all of the parking and concessions. The only pure profit the New York Islanders make is on their merchandise sales **UPDATE: My buddy NYIsles1/IslesTigers corrected my numbers: SMG at this time receives 11% of Isles gate receipts, all parking and concessions and 40% of all the team's advertising revenue. Thanks for the help. I could have sworn the gate receipts (tickets) were higher though...**). The LDG will also be responsible for all maintenance and repair costs on the site that the County has been shouldering throughout the current lease.Here are the advantages and benefits of IDA funding (directly from the Town of Brookhaven IDA website):
So what does this mean for the Lighthouse approval process? It basically puts the puck back in the Town of Hempstead's end. With a tentative Lease Agreement and re-zoning hearing that occurred on September 22nd, it's the Town's turn to send a counter-offer to the Lighthouse Project possibly scaling back some aspects of the construction. That's how negotiations work until both sides get the concessions they want and reach a compromise.
ADVANTAGES & BENEFITS OF IDA FUNDING
It's my belief that the LDG and Nassau County tried to accommodate some of the demands of the Town of Hempstead (granted we won't know the details of the Lease Agreement until noon today). It is known that the Lease Agreement will still provide the LDG access to tax-exempt money but another one of the important issues being addressed was that the Islanders stay for more than the original agreement of 2025.
**Side Note: In the Newsday article in today's edition regarding the Lighthouse Project, the reporters only state that the Islanders will be required to remain in the Coliseum for 15 years. This number is not accurate. What the authors did not take into account was that the Lease Agreement for the Lighthouse Project would terminate the current lease on the property. If the Lighthouse is approved for zoning and permits this year or next, then the new Lease Agreement will take effect in 2010 and will provide for 20 years.**
**Side Note 2: Nassau County legislative Minority Leader Peter Schmitt (R-Massapequa) was quoted in the same article saying that the numbers provided in the Lease Agreement will be inaccurate without knowing what the LDG will build on the site. The only question I have to ask in regards to this line of questioning is, "Why then, would the Town of Hempstead send an open letter of suggestions/demands to the County, the LDG and the citizens of Long Island for the Lease Agreement if there has been no decision on what will be constructed on the site?"**
Any way you slice it, this is a big step forward in the process of getting the Lighthouse Project approved. Now is the time for diplomacy and compromise. Let's look forward to October 3rd, not as date for "certainty" on the Project but as the start of the future on Long Island and the Islanders hockey season.
Be on the lookout for my Season Preview post tomorrow!
Friday, September 25, 2009
Is That A Light at the End of the Tunnel or a Freight Train?
I'm sure that you've been bombarded by analysis from Tuesday's Re-Zoning Hearing for the Lighthouse Project, but I figured that one more couldn't hurt. I apologize that it's now Friday and I'm finally getting around to this post (two jobs and going full-time to school can hinder some thought processes).
The Town Board was "cordial" and "polite"...for all of about 5 minutes. I have no idea how the writers from Newsday, which is owned by Cablevision, who owns MSG, which in turn owns the Rangers, got such a different perspective on the proceedings. It was clear from the get-go that those who supported the Lighthouse Project would be limited in their ability to speak their minds. However, on the flip side, those who were ardently opposed to the Project either due to concerns about the water, the traffic, the height of the buildings or what have you, were getting more than their fair share of time in front of the Board.
At one point during the morning session, it seemed that Garden City's representatives (the most outspoken opponent to the Lighthouse Project or any development for that matter) which included the Mayor, Trustee's, Eastern Property Association members and the like, were given ample time (and were grouped TOGETHER, one after the other for the better part of the morning session) to voice their opinions. However, when Nick from Let There Be Light(house) stepped to the podium (as was pointed out in Islanders Point Blank) he was held to a very strict 2 minutes of speaking time. What were the motives for that I wonder?
**Side Note**: It is only a small minority of citizens and civic leaders that are opposed to the Lighthouse Project in Garden City. Please don't take anything said in relation to Garden City's opposition to infer that the majority of citizens living there are against the Project. It is very much the opposite. Many in Garden City believe the Lighthouse Project to be a positive for all Long Island even in it's current iteration.
What struck me the most while I sat in silence in the back of the room was the absolute disdain that the Town Board exhibited toward Charles Wang, Scott Rechler and their consultants. Councilman Santino, in particular was downright belligerent at times with the Traffic Consultant for the Lighthouse Project, Bob Eschbacher. Meanwhile, the others on the Board simply sat indifferent to the proceedings although sometimes asking half-assed questions about hypothetical situations like people backing out of their driveway on a busy street (that's already choked with traffic during rush hour), what would happen if someone ran a red light that doesn't even exist yet or the that height and density of the buildings is a concern because it will seem too much like "The City". If they actually took the time, the Lighthouse Project provided those observations and data in with the voluminous 6,500+ pages of the DGEIS on February 24th!
Unfortunately, I was in class for the dramatic conclusion of the "Traffic Analysis" by the Town Board, so I didn't get to see Charles Wang lose his cool after several hours of interrogation of Bob Eschbacher. What I took away from the whole argument was that the traffic mitigation measures (which were approved by State DOT and DWP) were more geared to roadways leading to the site than actual roads in and around the proposed construction area. Improvements to the Meadowbrook Parkway and Hempstead Tpke. and the roads 1/2 mile from the site and beyond are the State and Town's responsibility and the Lighthouse is merely providing the data, analysis and suggestions to ease the traffic burden(public transportation) to better serve the area in which they're building. Only one Town Board member (I apologize, I didn't catch who it was) pointed out that it was more important to the process to discuss roadways that directly affected the Lighthouse site as opposed to mitigation measures on roadways that would lead to the site (think about the entrance ramp onto the Meadowbrook Pkwy. from the Southern State, which Councilman Santino espoused about for nearly half an hour).
Furthermore, I'd like to address the water and sewage concerns, which are not to be taken lightly at all. If I have my facts straight, the Lighthouse Development Group has entered into negotiations with Nassau Community College (where I'm presently enrolled) to build a well near the Hempstead Plains on the eastern edge of campus. Why exactly, would the lease need to be hammered out for that portion of construction BEFORE the Town Board has even approved the final scope of the Project as a whole? Councilman Santino seemed to think that the well needed to be approved ahead of the rest of the Project (somehow subverting the entire State mandated process). Nice of you to make that clear for us there Santino!
With that said, the consulting company for water distribution and sewage removal, H2M, which is contracted both by the Lighthouse Group AND the Town of Hempstead, went into some detail as to the most recent data concluded. Currently, the area is running at 1 million gallons surplus and the Lighthouse, once fully constructed in 10 years or so, would only draw 0.8% of the total water supply! Pretty damning stuff that the Board was more than a little irked about as they asked the same question of the consultant in about 20 different ways.
In my conclusion, as well as others, this hearing was nothing more than political grandstanding. The Town Board was clearly ticked about the very well-publicized and blatant "shot across the bow" that was the Kansas City pre-season game and they made sure to exact some public revenge. More than once, Board members seemed to be patting themselves on the back, smiling to themselves with an air of, "I just asked an intelligent question that will probably stump this analyst and make the LDG look like a bunch of fools". Not only only were some of the questions wreaking of ignorance, at times they bordered on immature banter to satisfy personal ego.
With all the public politics out of the way, it's time to get down to the real business. It has been a proper assumption since this process started that the Lighthouse would look nothing like the original plans once all was said and done. Now is the time for compromise. It's not unusual for a developer to shoot for the moon and then work out a deal with the municipality to scale back parts of a project. That's how real estate works.
Will the towers be 450ft. once they're completed? Probably not. Personally, I think they'll be just a bit taller or shorter than Nassau County Medical Center (2 miles to the East). Will the roadways be able to handle the increased daily traffic to and from the site? It's very likely that there will be initial growing pains. However, once completed, I believe that the measures being hashed out now will be a great help to mitigating traffic in the surrounding area and beyond. Will the Lighthouse be a destination for all those living on and visiting Long Island? Absolutely.
For all the politics, I still believe that the Town of Hempstead knows the kind of spot they're in. The public overwhelmingly supports the Project and they're jobs are on the line if they don't come through. On top of that, the Lighthouse Group submitted nearly 5,000 pages of FGEIS which was supposed to have been completed BY THE TOWN and their consultant FP Clark. However, due to the events earlier this month, the SEQRA mandated deadline of September 18th came and went. Now is the time to sit down and work out the details in a civil manner. Let's get down to the nitty-gritty and finally BUILD THE LIGHTHOUSE!
**Side Note #2**: It has come to my attention that the Lighthouse Group approached the Town of Hempstead following the Re-Zoning Hearing in an attempt to come to a compromise. As of yesterday, the Town of Hempstead had refused to sit down and discuss the options.
Today, however, reports filtered out of the Town of Hempstead that they were preparing to offer the Lighthouse Group a scaled-down version of the Project. I'm not totally convinced that this is the case but it seems logical from the standpoint that the Town of Hempstead certainly understands what kind of support the Project has and still is receiving. We shall see.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
The Re-Zoning Hearing Has Begun!
Catch all of my updates for this morning's Re-zoning Hearing's session on my Twitter at @NYIsles10. Everything will be on there. Enjoy the updates! Hopefully, things will move smoothly.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Time Yet Again to Savalge Our Hopes and Dreams
The horizon, that finish line in the distance, is finally upon us and we have to stand up yet again and fight for a new beginning. Tomorrow, Tuesday September 22nd at 9:00AM at the John Adams Playhouse on the Hofstra Campus, the Re-zoning Hearing for the Lighthouse Project (minus the all-crucial vote on the matter) will begin in earnest as the process creeps slowly forward. We need your help to advocate yet again for your future, your children's future and their children's future. We must stand up and fight for what we believe in: The Lighthouse Project and the Islanders remaining where they belong in Nassau County.
There have been many roadblocks and many small victories along the way. However, now as the Environmental Review Process starts to wrap up and the details of the Project hopefully will be put into place, reports have come to light that there may be those who truly do not want a stake in this future that Charles Wang and Scott Rechler are trying to build. It is imperative that we again show our support and prove to those in political positions of influence that this is a Project worth constructing. Let your voices be heard and your presence be felt.
Now is our time! Join me and many of your fellow supporters tomorrow in one united front to get this Project closer to being approved.
I hope to see you there tomorrow morning.
| Sessions | Morning Session | Break | Afternoon Session | Evening Session |
| Time | 9AM-1PM | 1PM-2PM | 2PM-5PM | 6PM-9PM |
Friday, September 18, 2009
Revisiting Hits to the Head
If you're an Islander fan, by now you've heard what happened last night when one of our bright young players was viciously hit in the head with little relevance to the play. Kyle Okposo was hit in open-ice by a very suspect impact initiated by Calgary Flames defenseman Dion Phaneuf. Here's my breakdown of the play (UPDATED):
Okposo skates up the middle of the ice with the puck barely hanging on to his blade. He’s covered by 2 Flames players, the forward who is properly back-checking and the the left defenseman who is in position to force Okposo to the outside.
Phaneuf conciously makes a decision to skate OUT OF HIS LANE as a right defenseman to come after Okposo.
Okposo loses the puck to a good back-check by the forward and is extending to regain control and if you’ve ever played the game in this situation you almost certainly have your head down (even at the NHL level) to spot the puck.
Phaneuf keeps his elbow IN, until the force of the impact drives his arm up and out. This was a shoulder check with an elbow follow through. Not uncommon but certainly not warranted in open-ice. What irks me about the hit is the total irrelevance to the play as a whole and the fact that he does LEAVE HIS FEET to deliver the hit. Phaneuf has no necessity to be on that side of the ice as proper defensive technique dictates that he stay on his side of the ice (again, if you’ve ever played, this was taught to you).
Frankly, IMHO this was a dirty hit. Regular season, pre-season, playoffs is irrelevant. As far as relevance to the play and the idea of fair-play and keeping an opponent’s well-being in mind in relation to the position he’s in at that moment, Phaneuf disregarded everything that makes this game great.
I ask those of you who think this is a clean hit, what happens at the end of a playoff series? The teams shake hands, right? Well, if this happened in the Western Conference Finals for example, I can guarantee you that there would be a bench clearing brawl. There is a certain etiquette that every hockey player lives and dies by:
Phaneuf stepped over the line and deserves a suspension. What should be 5 games minimum won’t even be a slap on the wrist but at least we know it should be that long.
What I really like about the Islanders response was that it wasn't the usual guys who came to Kyle's defense. Pascal Morency (although deserving of a suspension) should be praised for going after Phaneuf in retaliation
Whatever suspensions get handed down, be prepared for the contingency that only one player will receive anything (Pascal Morency). If Dion Phaneuf gets anything for this vicious hit to the head I'll be surprised.
Keep following Katie Strang and her blog Isles Files for the latest updates on Kyle's condition. As of right now, the PR dept. is saying it's a "mild concussion". I'm sure we'll find out more as the weekend gets underway.
Happy Friday, everyone!
Other Sites with News on Last Night's Hit
Link Updates 2:30PM
Monday, September 14, 2009
The Day We've All Been Waiting For...
It's been a rough time for Islanders fans since April 14th, 2009 when we first learned that we had won the Draft Lottery and the right to choose John Tavares. Since Draft Weekend where all our hopes and cries for sanity were answered, there really hasn't been much to talk about. At 10:30PM tonight, albeit on a 30-minute delay, we'll finally have something to discuss: IT'S TIME FOR SOME ISLANDERS HOCKEY, BABY!
So get those chips and dip ready, we've got some ACTUAL hockey to watch. I can't imagine how excited the residents of Terrace, B.C. are right now. They've had a few days to soak it all in with visits from Lord Stanley and former hockey greats, Bryan Trottier, Cliff Ronning, Dave Babych and Cassie Campbell. For a town of about 15,000 residents, this has to be the most exciting event that's ever happened for them.
As Ken Morrow stated in his interview with NHL.com in reference to the Islanders second appearance in the Kraft Hockeyville game:
"I think it's a fantastic idea -- one of the best marketing ideas I've ever seen, really. You've got all these towns across Canada who are involved in this. What a fantastic thing to be associated with. Everybody's excited."
My question here is: Why can't American hockey fans do something similar? Wouldn't it be great to have NHL hockey go to the small towns across the USA? You know, non-traditional markets? Oh wait, what's that? We're fighting to keep the Coyotes in...Phoenix? Oh, well. There goes that idea.
Don't forget to tune in tonight for our first taste of NHL hockey action since the beginning of April. I know I'll be up late tonight.
Catch the game between the Isles and Vancouver Canucks on MSG+ Channels 88 and 717 on Cablevision iO and/or on the NHL Network.
I'll be catching up on some Training Camp news as much as I can (school is keeping me really busy and it's only been 1 week). Keep checking Newsday's Katie Strang's Blog, Isles Files and her Twitter account @KatieStrangNYI for the latest and greatest from Saskatchewan and Islanders Training Camp.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Better Late than Never: Photos from Prospect Camp
With the big camp starting today, I figured I'd reach in to my photo archive and post the pictures from the Prospect Camp. Take a gander and hopefully this holds you over until I get some real material from camp and the recent Lighthouse Project mayhem. Have a great weekend!
If you have any questions about what players are what just let me know. I'll give you hint about the huge goalie in blue pads though: Mikko Koskinen.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Remembering a Day That Will Never Be Forgotten and Looking Toward the Future
I'm sorry that I haven't been around much this summer to write. Things in my life have turned from hectic to damn near apocalyptic as I've decided to go back to school full time, work at my current job, keep my reffing up (which consequently starts this weekend) and write for this blog. With all the hubbub going on, something had to fall to the wayside and unfortunately for my fans and avid readers, the blog took the biggest brunt of my inability to focus on one thing. For that I apologize.
As the season approaches and the Islanders prepare for Training Camp, which begins tomorrow, I'd like to take a solemn moment to remember the lives that were lost on that fateful day eight years ago:
September 11, 2001 will always be an indellible date in my mind for as long as I live. I will always remember where I was and what I was doing. I will mourn those lives that were lost and those families and friends that were plunged into darkness by the actions of those who filled their hearts with hate. Today is a day that will remain in my memory for those who have risked their lives for our country and our way of life. This is the day that will never be forgotten...
Islanders Related Material
I know things have begun to awaken as the season approaches and I just wanted to clue you in on what will be going on here at Official's Outlook as well as Lighthouse Hockey.
1) With the decision to dissolve the radio broadcasts for the Islanders and move to simulcast, the NYI Blog Box has decided to try and delve into the world of Podcasts. Be on the look out for an announcement from me on when this ball will get rolling. I can promise you that I will try my hardest to get the NYI Blog Box Radio Show off the ground before the season opener.
2) The Lighthouse Project has reached a tipping point in its ongoing political struggle with the Town of Hempstead. Things are still looking up, but your help is still needed to persuade the lawmakers to do what is right and necessary for the residents of Long Island. We still need to stand firm on our support for the Lighthouse.
3) Training Camp begins tomorrow. The season is upon us. John Tavares is about to finally step on the ice as an official member of the New York Islanders. The future looks bright. Let's hope that this year is another of building chemistry and progressing the rebuild.
Finally,
4) I will be splitting my time between this site and Lighthouse Hockey. I'm not sure exactly what I will be covering over there, but I urge you to check out the site and post your comments, thoughts and ideas. Dom runs a really cutting edge operation and I hope to provide him with even more ammunition as the season gets under way.
I know that I've been remiss over the summer and I'm looking to right the ship as my own future gets a fresh start. Keep your ears and eyes open. Things on just about every front are going to bust wide open...very soon. I hope everyone had a pleasant and relaxing summer, but now it's time to get down to business.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Welcome: We'll Leave the Light(house) On!
After all the posturing over the past two years, the anti-climatic nature of the Public Hearing on August 4th overshadowed the huge crossroads the Project has arrived at. Many a powerful voice came out in support of the Lighthouse including principal developer Charles Wang, former Islander greats Bobby Nystrom and Mike Bossy, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and local politicians and community leaders. However, I'm more concerned about those who have spoken out AGAINST the Project. What are the issues that they want examined?
After the jump, I have a special treat for you guys: A slide show of the pictures I took at the Rally and the Public Hearing. Be sure to check it out...
This was a comment I posted over at James Mirtle's From the Rink in response to a post about concerns that were being raised by those in opposition of the Lighthouse Project. You can read his whole article and the myriad of other comments here.
1) Environmental Concerns
Here’s the issue. The State mandated process for Environmental Impact Survey is to DETERMINE ANY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUE THAT WILL EFFECT THE OVERALL FOOTPRINT OF THE PROJECT. The reason that this process is so drawn out is due to the fact that many agencies, most importantly the Town of Hempstead, must review each and every area of concern before moving into the Final Environmental Impact Study. Water, sewage and conservation of the Hempstead Plains area are all included in the DGEIS that was submitted in February. Remember, THINGS ARE NOT FINALIZED! Nor will they be until the Town of Hempstead, Nassau County and the State of NY have done their due dilligence as far as reviewing each and every inch of the proposed site.
Another thing to note is that the proposed construction site, what amounts to an abandoned parking lot (at least during the summer), the surrounding buildings (RexCorp Plaza on the South side of Hempstead Tpke., the Omni Building to the North and the Marriott Hotel which sits on the extreme East of the site are ALL OWNED BY THE LIGHTHOUSE DEVELOPMENT GROUP! The only piece of land that is not owned by them is the 77 acres where the Coliseum sits.
2) Development in a County that doesn’t develop
No offense to anyone else who has commented so far on this topic, but you simply don’t have the same perspective that I do. I live here. I’m in the thick of it everyday. Nassau County has no available land to develop. It’s a simple fact that really hampers the status quo. Neighborhood after neighborhood of Suburbia has created more TRAFFIC, SEWAGE CONCERNS and ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT than the Lighthouse will in 25 years. The idea is to build to conform to environmental GREEN standards. The Lighthouse is needed to create a new status quo, a “New Suburbia”.
I’m 25 years old. Don’t I deserve a place to live? Finding an apartment on Long Island below $1000 is a challenge at best. What’s wrong with placing a series of “below-market housing”, not “welfare-housing” as someone stated before, next to luxury condos? These units will be utilized by people my age, between 25-34, to stay in a County that is only comprised of 8% of people in that age group. There are no jobs, no place to live and no where to go but off Long Island.
3) Who pays?
This is an issue that can’t even be a concern at this point. For the Lighthouse Development Group, yes. But not for the general public. Funding isn’t even going to be discussed until the Re-Zoning Hearing which is far off in the distance as far as the process goes. Whether the money comes from China or bank loans as I’ve heard directly from some inside in the LDG, it doesn’t matter. This is the ultimate Republican wet dream: A developer (big business) who’s willing to pay for 99% of a development project. You tell me where else you’ve heard that before? Please remember, this is not going to be built in a day. This is an 8-10 year build out process. The money will not be needed all at once. From what I know the $400 million for the Coliseum is the only guaranteed number right now.
Many of you ask: “What’s is Charles Wang’s motive for building this development project?” Allow me to answer that for you.
Charles is has been losing $20 million+ a year on a team since 2000. The lease that Nassau County has for the site is overseen by a third party company that maintains the building called SMG (the same people who take care of Nationwide Arena in Columbus). The lease is so restraining, that the only pure profit the Islanders receive is from their merchandise and their TV deal. Major percentages (in some cases up to 90%) of tickets, parking and concessions all go to SMG and the current lease extends until 2015. If the LDG builds the Project then the lease is re-negotiated to better favor keeping the team on Long Island.
Also of note, Nassau County which loses $1.5 million on the site a year, stands to gain $60-$70 million in fresh tax revenue annually. The Uniondale School District, which will end up enrolling a significant amount of new students just struck a deal with LDG that will pay them huge sums of money (somewhere in the range of $26 million) to fund revitalization of the District.
If you still think that Charles Wang is only the owner of the Islanders to build the Lighthouse then you are seriously mistaken. If you read any newspaper articles from when Wang bought the team in 2000, you’ll find that Nassau County was promising the new owner a new building in 5-7 years. Nassau Coliseum is in disrepair and is no longer viable to contain a major sports franchise.
Not only will this Project be a reason to keep the Islanders where they belong, but it will be a catalyst to the region. New tax revenues, jobs and the opportunity to keep the younger generation around long enough to utilize the tax dollars that are spent on them to educate them on Long Island will be a significant boon the the local economy. After the Lighthouse is constructed, these younger people (myself included) will be re-insert back into the work force and be a part of the “New Suburbia” the Lighthouse will create.
Things That Make You Go...Hmmm"I believe community outreach was really the key to the success of the hearing and rally today. But I realize, you can't reach everyone. I was very sad to hear from a woman who was 'horrified' by the project and how things were not on the up-and-up informing the community on its impacts. When I attempted to offer her an outreach meeting, or to even bring her in to discuss the project, she declined and refused to tell me who she was."
The Light Post: Official Blog of the Lighthouse Project
It's amazing to me how those opposed to the Lighthouse Project try to justify their claims of opposition with little to no information and then simply turn away from any attempt to help them understand the finer points involved in the Project.
Final Takeaway
This was a huge event in the process of getting the Lighthouse Project approved. If I'm not mistaken, about 90% of those who came to the Public Hearing were in favor of the Project. It's about time that people who are out of work and watch other towns around North America re-develop and start with a fresh slate, get their chance at a new beginning.
The fight is not over. Our resolve must stay as focused as ever. The Public Comment period ends on August 17th. Keep the pressure on. We need to see this through...
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Live Blog: August 4th, 2009 Lighthouse Public Hearing
9:37 Kate Murray is addressing the massive crowd of supporters. "Goalie" Don Clavin is in attendance.
9:38 The Hearing begins.
9:39 The Lighthouse is of course not the only Public Hearing topic this morning. Most of it is parking-related topics throughout the Town of Hempstead.
9:40 Joe Ra, Attorney for the ToH stated that the Meeting would go until 5PM. If the Lighthouse Project Hearing goes anywhere close to the speed of the Public Hearings now. Then we hopefully we'll get through this pretty easy.
9:43 The Lighthouse is brought forth as the main topic of business.
9:44 Kate Murray just went over the main points of the DGEIS and what the speaking points will be during the procedeeings.
9:45 Remember that August 17th is the last date for the Public Comment period.
9:46 Charles Wang begins his presentation to thunderous applause.
9:49 Video presentation begins with the latest information for the Lighthouse Project.
9:51 The message is simply: "What if it doesn't get constructed?"
9:53 The video has included video from the Marriott meeting and the June 11, 2009 meeting in the Nassau County Executive Building. It is stirring speech after stirring speech from residents of Long Island.
9:56 Mr. Wang thanks those who support the Project a huge massing of groups.
9:57 Over 15,000 letters were sent to the Lighthouse Project in support and those have been turned over to the Town.
10:01 Make sure to check out my Twitter feed where most of the quotes I get will be. My Twitter
10:05 Charles Wang finishes his address to the audience.
10:05 Hofstra President begins his speech to the Board. The President believes that that Hofstra is intertwined with the region (including the proposed Lighthouse site) and that the Board will find a way to compromise and get the Lighthouse done.
"This proposal is crucial to the future of Long Island"
"The benefits to Long Island are enormous"
"This is the time, this is the place and these are the developers to make it happen"
10:08 "We must stop the exodus of the young, professional workforce members"
10:13 Stu Rabinowitz, Hofstra President, ends his speech with a flourish about how the Town Board will get this right.
Nassau County Executive, Tom Suozzi steps up to the podium with "I am an Islander". Gotta love it.
10:15 Tom Suozzi: "50% of Americans live in suburbia"
"There was a large group of people much like this in 1947 that wanted a new way of life: Levittown"
10:16 4 Issues with Nassau County
"Property taxes are too high"
"Only 8% of young people are in Nassau County (23-35)"
"Pockets of poverty in one of the most segregated place in America"
"The final issue is Traffic"
"The Lighthouse Project is the model for 'New Suburbia'"
10:21 "I know that working together, we can resolve the issues of this Project"
Tom Suozzi ends his speech.
10:22 Bishop Bill Murray from the Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre steps to the podium.
10:24 "We need a new home, a new vision" --Bishop Murphy
10:26 Comissioner Gary Bettman steps to the podium "I grew up on Long Island"
10:27 "It is clear there is probably no worse Major League facility in North America except for the Nassau Coliseum"
10:30 John Kaiman steps to the podium in place of John Durso (speaking on behalf of the Labor Unions) Kate Murray asks those in the Labor Unions to stand be recognized.
10:33 Jim Castellane steps to the podium and states that "We all represent Long Island"
10:45 Look for a Gary Bettman interview up on IslesBlogger.com
10:46 A Sierra Club representative, a volunteer who made the journey here, speaks mainly about the issue of Water and it's use at the development site. She makes several good points about heavy metals and how much the Project will effect the aquifers of upstate NY.
11:00 Keep following my Twitter feed
I'm going to sign off the blog for now.
I'll be back tonight with pictures from the Public Hearing.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Our Time has Come...
It's been a hard month and half for me blogging-wise to really come up with new content. I'm not really one to just re-hash the news or try to tread on others turf. Let's just say that I hit a creative impasse as far as things to write about.
Well, now I can safely say: "I'M BACK!"
There are so many things that I've been thinking about for weeks to share with you. The Lighthouse Project, the Rookie Scrimmage, as well as recent signings and moves within the organization.
Let me touch on a these subjects beginning with the most important one: The Lighthouse.
It has been a long time coming that we've finally found ourselves on the precipice of a decision. Many of my fellow bloggers have written hundreds of posts about the issue we face and I'd like to acknowledge their efforts. Please, I urge you to visit The Light Post: The Lighthouse Project's Official Blog written by Katrina Doell whose tireless efforts to not only inform the public through the blog and Twitter have been so vital to the education of people interested in the project. Let There be Light(house) by Nick Giglia has also contributed his own brand of eloquent writing and extremely detailed factual information that has lead to explicit understanding of the project and participation throughout our communities. Last but certainly not least, my fellow Blog Boxers, Dee Karl, who writes for both her site, Unique Perspectives of the 7th Woman and for HockeyBuzz, Mike Schuerlein of Islesblogger and several others who have been proponents of the project as long as I can remember as well as mentors to me and an amazing force within Islander Country.
The time has come for YOU, the people of Long Island and around the world, to contribute your voices and your opinions to the building of the Lighthouse Project. Above this post, you'll find banners dedicated to the Rally and March, the Public Hearing and How to Send Comments to the Town of Hempstead regarding the Lighthouse Project. Let your voices be heard as well as your presence felt. Your contribution is vital to the process.
As I stated back in March, right here and now is an unprecedented time in our lives. Back then, as now, history is unfolding right in front of our eyes. What makes this kind of history so special is that we can mold it how we choose. People like you and I have the opportunity to use our voices to move mountains and change policies.
Now, is our time.
Tomorrow, August 4th, 2009 is the most important day that we can show our support for the Lighthouse Project. At 8AM a rally will gather in the Nassau Coliseum Parking Lot 8 to show the world our unwavering endorsement of a project that will help be the catalyst for our well-being as community well into the 21st century. Howie Rose will emcee the event and will introduce special guest speakers who will include NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and Lighthouse Project Principal and Islanders owner Charles Wang. Islanders Alumni, many local elected officials and current Islanders current Islanders Josh Bailey and Joel Rechlicz, will be on hand showing their support for the huge development project.
At 8:45AM, the "Just Build It!" march will begin towards the John Cranford Adams Playhouse on the Hofstra campus located across the street. The main hearing will begin at 9:30AM. So if you can't make it to the rally or the march, please try and show your support at the hearing as this will be our final chance to really give those charged with approval an idea of our passion towards the goal of getting a shovel in the ground.
I'm so excited to be a part of this momentous occasion. I've been waiting for this moment in history and can't imagine how this will change my future. If you haven't already, please read this post that I wrote back in February that showcases exactly how I felt then and as I still feel now. I can't begin to replicate the prose that I wrote in that post. It's a piece of writing that is very special to me and describes my passion and desire for this project to the best of my ability.
Isles Notes and Quotes
I have a bulk of material on last month's Rookie Scrimmage. I have plenty of pictures and insight to share and just simply didn't have the impetus to get it all on here. I promise you that you'll see it as soon as I can possibly get all the ideas out of my mind and on to the computer.
I'll also be including some insights into the recent RFA signings of Jack Hillen and Nate Thompson, the hiring of assistant coach Scott Allen, as well as the contract negotiations of Blake Comeau and Matt Martin. There have been plenty of rumors floating around the Isles as well but these need to be put on the back-burner for now.
It's gonna be hard to stay completely on hockey since the Lighthouse Project really deserves to dominate the news. Things are moving along but the work is not done. WE MUST STAY FOCUSED!. We must show up in force to prove to those in political power that the people desire a new economic engine on Long Island. Now is not the time to divert our attention elsewhere! This is the only issue that we as citizens of Long Island need to be concerned with. I hope to see you there tomorrow!
Cheers!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Islanders Sign Martin Biron!
The Isles sign former Islander-killer, Martin Biron From beating the ever-loving crap out of the Islanders on Buffalo and Philly to going with: "If you beat them that much, join them."
Here's a signing I definitely did not see coming. What this means is Rick DiPietro WILL NOT be ready for the season. It seems the Islanders will attempt to imitate the Bruins of 2008-09 by platooning their goalies. With 3 true NHL starters in the organization, it will certainly be an interesting season for former goalie and current Head Coach, Scott Gordon. How he manages the rotation and whether or not DiPietro should prove to be very telling over the next few months.
We've been hearing since the beginning of this year that "The Rick" would be ready to start skating in the first few weeks of next month. With the signing of Biron, that simply doesn't seem to be a possibility anymore. Could there be a major setback in his rehabilitation? It would seem so. Unfortunate. after so much postulating that Rick would be ready for training camp in Saskatoon.
ISLANDERS AGREE TO TERMS WITH MARTIN BIRON
Goalie Signs One-Year Contract
UNIONDALE, NY, July 22, 2009 – The New York Islanders today announced that they have agreed to terms on a one-year contract with goaltender, Martin Biron.
Biron appeared in 55 games with the Philadelphia Flyers last season, posting a 29-19-5 record and a 2.76 goals against average. The Lac St. Charles, QC native led the Flyers to the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2008 Stanley Cup Playoffs, recording a 9-8 record and a 2.97 goals against average.
“Adding Marty gives us three bona-fide number one goalies,” said Garth Snow, General Manager, New York Islanders. “We learned about the importance of stability in our line-up from last year and he now allows us to have another quality starter.”
Biron has played a total of 433 games in the NHL and comes to the Islanders with a career record of 199-162-25-20-25 (W-L-T-OT-SO), a goals against average of 2.59 and a save percentage of .912. The 6’3, 180 pound net-minder began his career with the Buffalo Sabres where he played parts of seven seasons with both the Sabres and the team’s American Hockey League affiliate at the time, the Rochester Americans. He currently ranks second on Buffalo’s All-Time List in shutouts (18) and third in game played (300) and wins (134).
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Confirmed: NHL Grants fans the Matchup of the Season for the Home Opener
Personally, I can't remember the last time the Isles had their Season Opener the same night as their Home Opener. It seems like it's been a really long time since they weren't on the road to kick things off in October. Nevertheless, on Oct. 3, 2009 the matchup that will generate the most hype around the Islanders since the 2002 Playoff series against the Maple Leafs is officially confirmed: John Tavares v. Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Bill Guerin and the rest of the 2009 Stanley Cup Champion Penguins. I really can't even think of a better contest to start the season. It's going to be insane with a packed house in the "Old Barn". I really can't wait for the season to start. How long do I have to wait again?
I can't imagine why the NHL would start JT's career against this guy. Do you?
Also, in more NHL related news, the Winter Classic was officially unveiled between the Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers at Fenway Park on January 1st. That had to be the worst kept secret in all of pro sports. I think the NHL League Office needs to start taking some notes from Garth Snow about how to keep a lid on things.
Catch the rest of the New York Islanders 2009-10 Regular Season Schedule here.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Tavares is Now Officially a New York Islander!
"Who's laughin' now, Burkie?"
Just got the Press Release from Isles PR. It's official. John Tavares is now officially a New York Islander!
2009 First Overall Pick Signs First Professional Contract
UNIONDALE, NY, July 15, 2009 – The New York Islanders announced today the signing of John Tavares to a three-year entry level contract. Tavares was selected by the Islanders first overall in the 2009 National Hockey League Draft.
Tavares, a native of Oakville, ON, played in 247 career Ontario Hockey League games over four seasons, compiling 215 goals and 218 assists for 433 points. His 215 tallies surpassed Peter Lee’s former OHL record of 214 goals, which Lee held for 33 years. In 2007, Tavares was named the Canadian Hockey League Player of the Year, after breaking the OHL record for goals in a season with 72, a milestone previously held by Wayne Gretzky. Tavares played in 38 career OHL playoff games, recording 20 goals and 36 assists for a total of 56 points.
“It’s an exciting time for the Islanders organization as we develop our young talent into a contender,” said Garth Snow, General Manager, New York Islanders. “John provides another important piece to help us achieve our ultimate goal of winning a Stanley Cup.”
Last season, the 19-year-old center, led the OHL in goals (58) and points (104). Tavares recorded 50 points (32 goals and 18 assists) in 24 games after he was traded to the London Knights about halfway through the 2008-09 season and tied for the league lead in power-play goals with 14. Tavares also finished ninth in OHL playoff scoring with 10 goals and 11 assists for 21 points.
“I’m excited to officially become a part of the New York Islanders organization and begin my professional career this upcoming season,” said Tavares. “I look forward to joining the Islanders and be part of a team that’s ultimate goal is to bring the Stanley Cup back to Long Island.”
Tavares won back-to-back gold medals with Team Canada at the 2008 and 2009 World Junior Championships. He was named the 2009 tournament MVP and World Junior Top Forward. Tavares tallied eight goals and seven assists for 15 points at the 2009 Tournament to complete his all-time tournament scoring marks at 12 goals and eight assists for 20 points. His career World Junior goal total of 12, ties him with fellow Canadians Eric Lindros and Jeff Carter for most goals in a career at the World Junior Championships.
Tavares is the fourth number one overall pick selected by the Islanders. In 2000, the Islanders selected goaltender Rick DiPietro first overall. Denis Potvin was picked first overall at the 1973 NHL Entry Draft and in 1972 the Islanders selected forward Billy Harris.
I'll be back later tonight with my impressions on the Day 3 scrimmage. To go with that coverage I have quite a few pictures and an interview with a player I think you'll see on the Bridgeport roster in the fall: Victor Bartley.
Friday, July 10, 2009
A Bout of Randomness
Update 12:40 PM: IMPORTANT ADVISORY: The Islanders announced on Friday that due to capacity limitations and the overwhelming level of interest, a limited number of wristbands will be issued to fans for admission into the Prospect Mini-Camp open practice at Islanders Iceworks in Syosset on July 12th. Wristbands will be issued starting at 9am and fans are encouraged to arrive early as admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Fans must have a wristband in order to gain access to the rink to watch the open practice. Additional parking is available at the Syosset Long Island Railroad station just east of the practice facility.
I've been meaning to get this post out for a couple days so I figured it was time to just throw down some of the random happenings in Islanders Country.
In case you missed it, the Lighthouse Project has moved into the Public Comments phase. The Town of Hempstead has setup an email address for people to send comments on the project: lighthousecomment@tohmail.org. You can also send any comments or concerns via snail mail to: Lighthouse Project Public Comment, One Washington Street, Hempstead, NY 11550
Remember, we have to keep up the pressure on the Town, County and State so our best interests are served during the approval process of the Lighthouse Project. Get involved through The Official Website of the Lighthouse Project and Let There Be Light(house).
The Islanders formally introduced John Tavares on Wednesday. Big whoop! I got to see him drafted in Montreal! Being there to watch and hear Garth Snow confidently announce, "The New York Islanders are proud to select...John Tavares" is definitely up there on my list of the best Islander moments (a close second to the Shawn Bates penalty shot goal in Game 4 of the '02 1st Round Playoff Series against the Leafs).
Now that the formalities are over, it's time to get down to business. As I'm writing this, the prospects are taking the ice for the first day of Prospect Camp. Things should get massively crazy on Sunday 7/12, when the practice session at Iceworks in Syosset, NY is open to the public starting at 10:45AM. I'll be there along with my fellow Blog Boxers, the Media and hopefully a whole bunch of jazzed up Isles fans who will get a chance to peer into the future of this team.
Names like Ness, Hamonic, Romano, Koskinen, Nilsson, de Haan, Cizikas, Rahkshani, DiBenedetto, Martin, Trivino and so many others that have a chance to make their mark on the Orange and Blue for this season and many to follow will be there. All will be on display before they part their separate ways to either head to the NHL/AHL or back to their respective college and junior teams. It should be a lot of fun. Be on the look out for some good quotes coming out on Sunday.
I've been hearing along the grapevine that the Isles are looking into signing Alex Tanguay who could turn into
their year's Mark Streit. I think having a top 6 forward who's currently 29 and has a ton of experience would benefit this team a lot. Here's to hoping that "Rolie the Goalie" isn't the only NHL-caliber player the Isles sign this summer.That's all I've got for you for now. If anything major happens between now and Sunday, I'll be sure to get it posted as soon as possible.
Cheers, folks!
