Saturday, April 30, 2011

It's Saturday













It's Saturday. Here's what's going on....

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Today is April 30th, the 120th day of 2011. There are 245 days left in the year.

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Lightning stun Caps in Game 1.

Sharks win opener by beating Wings in OT.

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Today is Bob Wills Day. (Linky Link)

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USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – First Round

Eastern Conference

Indiana Ice (#3) vs. Waterloo Black Hawks (#6)

Indiana wins series 2-0.

Team USA (#4) vs. Muskegon Lumberjacks (#5)

Muskegon wins series 2-0.

Western Conference

Sioux Falls Stampede (#3) vs. Sioux City Musketeers (#6)

Sioux Falls wins series 2-1.

Fargo Force (#4) vs. Lincoln Stars (#5)

Fargo wins series 2-0.

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – Second Round

Eastern Conference

Cedar Rapids RoughRiders (#1) vs. Muskegon Lumberjacks (#5)
Cedar Rapids wins series 3-1.

Green Bay Gamblers (#2) vs. Indiana Ice (#3)
Green Bay wins series 3-0.

Western Conference

Dubuque Fighting Saints (#1) vs. Fargo Force (#4)
Dubuque wins series 3-0.

Omaha Lancers (#2) vs. Sioux Falls Stampede (#3)
Sioux Falls wins series 3-0.

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – Eastern Conference Final
Cedar Rapids RoughRiders (#1) vs. Green Bay Gamblers (#2)
Game 1: Friday, April 29th – Green Bay 3 @ Cedar Rapids 2
Game 2: Saturday, April 30th, 7:05 PM – Green Bay @ Cedar Rapids
Game 3: Friday, May 6th, 7:05 PM – Cedar Rapids @ Green Bay
Game 4: Sunday, May 8th, 3:05 PM – Cedar Rapids @ Green Bay**
Game 5: Tuesday, May 10th, 7:05 PM – Green Bay @ Cedar Rapids **
** if necessary
(all times reflect local start time)

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – Western Conference Final
Dubuque Fighting Saints (#1) vs. Sioux Falls Stampede (#3)
Game 1: Friday, April 29th– Sioux Falls 2 @ Dubuque 5
Game 2: Saturday, April 30th, 7:00 PM – Sioux Falls @ Dubuque
Game 3: Friday, May 6th, 7:05 PM – Dubuque @ Sioux Falls
Game 4: Sunday, May 8th, 6:05 PM – Dubuque @ Sioux Falls**
Game 5: Tuesday, May 10th, 7:00 PM – Sioux Falls @ Dubuque **
** if necessary
(all times reflect local start time)

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Jesus of Nazareth was crucified on this date in 0030.

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The Eastern Junior Hockey League (EJHL) is pleased to announce the completion of an historic affiliation agreement with the Southern Atlantic Hockey League (formerly SEJHL), to allow the SAHL and its respective teams to participate as an affiliate of the EJHL as the “EJHL South” for the upcoming season, 2011-2012.

The EJHL South encompasses a working partnership with the seven teams (listed below) that encompass the existing junior hockey footprint of the Southeastern United States, from Virginia to Florida and the fourteen teams that comprise the EJHL in the north.

The purpose of this affiliation is to extend to the rapidly growing southern hockey marketplace, the EJHL advanced player development and academic based junior hockey model that has been so successful in the advancement of student-athletes over the past twenty years.

“This is a great day for the sport of junior hockey and for players involved in this affiliation. We believe in the promise and potential of the southern hockey footprint, and we have total confidence that with the implemention of our player development model and with the EJHL branding and product extended to this region, that junior hockey players from the south can reach their ultimate goals and dreams”, commented EJHL Commissioner Bob Mainhardt.

Since its inception, the EJHL has directly placed more than 1,000 players in the NCAA. Considered the top academic advancement league in Tier III Junior hockey, the EJHL’s focus on college advancement and academic achievement is unmatched. The affilation is designed to substantially raise the standard of play in the south, provide improved league infrastructure, player development, college promotion, and increased visibility through an expanded league schedule that includes both regional competition and showcase competition at EJHL events.

SAHL Vice President David Falkenstein stated, “For our famlies and players here in the south, this is a historic day. Though there are many junior hockey leagues and products, but there is no confusion of the enormous value that the EJHL offers to all its players in terms of complete player development. We are humbled by the opportunity to participate as an affiliate of the EJHL and this is the culmination of a dream for most of us. Finally, players from our region can play closer to home and have similar player development and collegiate advancement opportunites afforded the vast number of successful players that have been associated with the EJHL.”

Details of the respective and intergrated league schedules are still being finalized, but will include crossover games in showcase events in the EJHL as well as a full EJHL South schedule. The EJHL South will commence operations immediately and will operate under the control and adminstrative guidelines of the EJHL.

The agreement is subject to final USAH approval but has been approved by the respective USAH commitees.

2011-2012 EJHL-SOUTH Organizations:
Atlanta Knights Junior Hockey Club
East Coast Eagles Junior Hockey
Florida Eels Juniors
Hampton Roads Junior Whalers
Palm Beach Junior Hawks
Space Coast Junior Hurricances
Tampa Bay Juniors


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This is Bugs Bunny Day.


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Argo QBs hit field for Mini-Camp.

TSN and TSN2 to broadcast CFL pre-season.

2011 CFL Schedule is here.

Donate to the Tony Proudfoot Fund.

Visit the leagues' official website, http://www.cfl.ca/.

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Jimmy finds another egg.

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Today is Eeyore's Birthday Day. 

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ST PETERSBURG -- David Price wasn't David Price Friday night, which added up to an outing the stylish Rays left-hander would like to forget.
By the time the 3 hour and 23 minute contest had run its course, Angels hitters had accrued 17 hits in an 8-5 win over the Rays with 21,791 watching at Tropicana Field.
Read the rest here.
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Today is National Go Birding Day.
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WASHINGTON -- Unlike most cliches, the one Bruce Bochy used Friday to describe the Giants' ongoing woes didn't sound tired. Given the Giants' confounding offensive struggles and fading status as World Series champions, the manager's words instead were packed with urgency.
"Hitting is contagious, and so is not hitting," Bochy said after the Giants' 3-0 loss to the Washington Nationals. "Right now we have a serious virus in the lineup."
Read the rest here.
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Today in Elvis History:

1957 - Elvis Presley began recording the soundtrack to his forthcoming film "Jailhouse Rock." Elvis met song writers Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller for the first time during the session.

1960 - Elvis Presley's single "Stuck On You" hit #1 in the U.S. It was his first single to be released in stereo.

1966 - Elvis Presley's single "Frankie And Johnny" hit #25 in the U.S.

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Today is National Honesty Day. 

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Today in Beatles History:

1964The Beatles received a $140,000 royalty check for the use of their name on Beatles Chewing Gum.

1969 - The Beatles recorded the lead guitar solo for the single "Let It Be." On January 4, 1970 George Harrison recorded the solo for the album version.

1969 - John Lennon and Paul McCartney put down their vocals for "You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)."

1987 - The Beatles' "Help!", "Rubber Soul" and "Revolver" were released on compact disc.

1988 - Paul McCartney announced that the Soviet record company Melodiya would release an album of his songs entitled "Chob B CCCP."

2002 - Two tape recordings of John Lennon improvising songs and telling stories to his stepdaughter sold for $195,000 at an auction by Christie's.

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This is Hairstylists Appreciation Day.

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Today in Sports History:

1922 - Charlie Robertson (Chicago White Sox) threw a perfect game against the Detroit Tigers.

1939 - Lou Gehrig played his last game with the New York Yankees. He had played in 2,130 consecutive games.

1940 - Belle Martell was licensed in California by state boxing officials. She was the first American woman, prizefight referee.

1961 - Willie Mays (San Francisco) hit four home runs against the Milwaukee Braves.

1970 - Billy Williams (Chicago Cubs) became the first National League player to play in 1,000 straight games.

1971 - The Milwaukee Bucks beat the Baltimore Bullets in the fourth straight game of a championship series. They were only the second team in major league history to take another team out in four straight games.

1989 - Bill Shoemaker won his 1,000th stakes race.

1993 - Monica Seles was stabbed by Gunter Porsche. Porsche had run out onto the court after her match and stabbed Seles in the upper back.

1996 - The New York Yankees and the Baltimore Orioles played the longest nine-inning game in major league baseball history. The game took four hours and 21 minutes.

1997 - Riddick Bowe announced his retirement from boxing to pursue a career with the HBO cable network. His career record was 40-1 with 32 knockouts.

1997 - The Atlanta Braves set a major league record when the got their 19th win in the month of April.

2002 - Alex Rodriguez became the second youngest major league player to reach 250 home runs. He was 26 years and 277 days old.

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Casey Jones was killed while trying to save the runaway train "Cannonball Express" on this date in 1900

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Coming Up: 

Tonight --

MLB -- Tampa Bay Rays vs Los Angeles Angels 1:10pm EDT

MLB -- San Francisco Giants at Washington Nationals 4:05pm EDT

Nascar Sprint Cup Series -- Crown Royal presents the Matthew and Daniel Hansen 400 at Richmond International Raceway 7:30pm EDT

Sunday --


Indy Car -- Itiapava Sao Paolo Indy 300 at Sao Paolo, Brazil 12:00pm EDT


MLB -- San Francisco Giants at Washington Nationals 1:35pm EDT

MLB -- Tampa Bay Rays vs Los Angeles Angels 1:40pm EDT

NHL Playoff Hockey -- Tampa Bay Lightning at Washington Capitals 7:00pm EDT

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That's all for today. Thanks for stopping by, see you tomorrow.           

Friday, April 29, 2011

It's Friday













It's Friday. Here's what's happening....

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Today is April 29th, the 119th day of 2011. There are 246 days left in the year.

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Canucks blank Predators in opener.

No suspension for Bruins' Ference.

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Today is the first day of National Dream Hotline Week.

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USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – First Round

Eastern Conference

Indiana Ice (#3) vs. Waterloo Black Hawks (#6)

Indiana wins series 2-0.

Team USA (#4) vs. Muskegon Lumberjacks (#5)

Muskegon wins series 2-0.

Western Conference

Sioux Falls Stampede (#3) vs. Sioux City Musketeers (#6)

Sioux Falls wins series 2-1.

Fargo Force (#4) vs. Lincoln Stars (#5)

Fargo wins series 2-0.

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – Second Round

Eastern Conference

Cedar Rapids RoughRiders (#1) vs. Muskegon Lumberjacks (#5)
Cedar Rapids wins series 3-1.

Green Bay Gamblers (#2) vs. Indiana Ice (#3)
Green Bay wins series 3-0.

Western Conference

Dubuque Fighting Saints (#1) vs. Fargo Force (#4)
Dubuque wins series 3-0.

Omaha Lancers (#2) vs. Sioux Falls Stampede (#3)
Sioux Falls wins series 3-0.

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – Eastern Conference Final
Cedar Rapids RoughRiders (#1) vs. Green Bay Gamblers (#2)
Game 1: Friday, April 29th, 7:05 PM – Green Bay @ Cedar Rapids
Game 2: Saturday, April 30th, 7:05 PM – Green Bay @ Cedar Rapids
Game 3: Friday, May 6th, 7:05 PM – Cedar Rapids @ Green Bay
Game 4: Sunday, May 8th, 3:05 PM – Cedar Rapids @ Green Bay**
Game 5: Tuesday, May 10th, 7:05 PM – Green Bay @ Cedar Rapids **
** if necessary
(all times reflect local start time)

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – Western Conference Final
Dubuque Fighting Saints (#1) vs. Sioux Falls Stampede (#3)
Game 1: Friday, April 29th, 7:00 PM – Sioux Falls @ Dubuque
Game 2: Saturday, April 30th, 7:00 PM – Sioux Falls @ Dubuque
Game 3: Friday, May 6th, 7:05 PM – Dubuque @ Sioux Falls
Game 4: Sunday, May 8th, 6:05 PM – Dubuque @ Sioux Falls**
Game 5: Tuesday, May 10th, 7:00 PM – Sioux Falls @ Dubuque **
** if necessary
(all times reflect local start time)

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Interstate Mullet Toss Days start today.


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Stamps extend promising DB Issac.

Riders profile: Coach Mike Walker.

2011 CFL Schedule is here.

Donate to the Tony Proudfoot Fund.

Visit the leagues' official website, http://www.cfl.ca/.

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Jimmy finds another egg.

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Today is National Dance Day. 

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MINNEAPOLIS -- Ben Zobrist's good week only got better on Thursday afternoon.
Entering Thursday's Game 1, Zobrist had 15 RBIs for the season, eight of which had come in the Rays' previous three games. With four hits, including a three-run home run, Zobrist put up a club-record eight RBIs in the first game of a day-night twin bill as the Rays rolled to a 15-3 victory over the Twins.
Zobrist's eight RBIs broke the previous club record of seven, set by Carlos Pena in 2007.
Read the rest here.


MINNEAPOLIS -- He may not have gotten the no-hitter, or the shutout, but Jeff Niemann pitched his best game of the season Thursday night against the Twins.
Niemann held the Twins hitless through six innings while facing the minimum until Denard Span singled on a soft liner just beyond the reach of Elliot Johnson at shortstop to lead off the seventh. Span would come around to score on a single later in the inning, but those two hits would be the only ones of the night for the Twins as the Rays won, 6-1, at Target Field.
"It was a great game and everything was clicking," Niemann said. "This is a huge confidence boost. It's something that I needed. The team's been playing so well and I felt like I was that guy that was kind of stopping the momentum the whole time.

Read the rest here.
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Today is National Hairball Awareness Day.
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PITTSBURGH -- If Thursday represented Ryan Vogelsong's destiny, he had to wait an extremely long time to reach it.
Vogelsong finally received a chance to fill the role he initially was groomed for as a professional -- starting on the mound for the Giants -- and excelled in it. His 5 2/3 solid innings complemented Aaron Rowand's three RBIs Thursday and helped San Francisco subdue the Pittsburgh Pirates, 5-2.
Read the rest here.
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Today in Elvis History:

1957 - Elvis Presley's "Peace In The Valley" hit #39 in the U.S.

1964 - Elvis Presley recorded the vocals to the second version of "Roustabout" after the principal photography was shot. This version of "Roustabout" was written by Bill Giant, Bernie Baum and Florence Kaye.

1976 - Bruce Springsteen climbed the wall of Graceland to meet Elvis Presley. Elvis wasn't home.

2003 - The Elvis Presley album "Live At The Louisiana Hayride" was released.

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Today is Save the Frogs Day. (Linky Link)

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Today in Beatles History:

1970George Harrison announced the forthcoming release of his first solo album, "All Things Must Pass." He also said that he expected the Beatles would one day re-form.

2002 - Paul McCartney won a court order to prevent the auction house Christie's from selling his handwritten lyrics to the song "Hey Jude." McCartney claimed that the sheet of note paper had disappeared from his house. The sheet of paper was expected to sell for around $116,000.

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Qala'un, the Sultan of Egypt, captured Tripoli on this date in 1289.

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Today in Sports History:

1941 - The Boston Bees agreed to change their name to the Braves.

1961 - ABC’s "Wide World of Sports" premiered.

1981 - Steve Carlton, of the Philadelphia Phillies, became the first left-handed pitcher in the major leagues to get 3,000 career strikeouts.

1985 - Billy Martin was brought back, for the fourth time, to the position of manager for the New York Yankees.

1986 - Roger Clemens of the Boston Red Sox set a major-league baseball record by striking out 20 Seattle Mariner batters.

1988 - The Baltimore Orioles set a new major league baseball record by losing their first 21 games of the season.

1997 - Craig MacTavish announced his retirement from the NHL after 17 seasons.

2002 - Darryl Strawberry was sentenced to 18 months in prison for violating his probation on a 1999 conviction on drug and solicitation of prostitution charges.

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The Maryland House of Delegates voted against seceding from Union on this date in 1861.

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Coming Up: 

Tonight --

NHL Playoff Hockey -- Tampa Bay Lightning at Washington Capitals 7:00pm EDT

MLB -- San Francisco Giants at Washington Nationals 7:05pm EDT

MLB -- Tampa Bay Rays vs Los Angeles Angels 7:10pm EDT

Nascar Nationwide Series -- Bubba Burger 250 at Richmond International Raceway 7:30pm EDT

Saturday --

MLB -- Tampa Bay Rays vs Los Angeles Angels 1:10pm EDT

MLB -- San Francisco Giants at Washington Nationals 4:05pm EDT

Nascar Sprint Cup Series -- Crown Royal presents the Matthew and Daniel Hansen 400 at Richmond International Raceway 7:30pm EDT

Sunday --

NHL Playoff Hockey -- Tampa Bay Lightning at Washington Capitals Time TBD

MLB -- San Francisco Giants at Washington Nationals 1:35pm EDT

MLB -- Tampa Bay Rays vs Los Angeles Angels 1:40pm EDT

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That's all for today. Thanks for stopping by, see you tomorrow.            

Thursday, April 28, 2011

It's Thursday













It's Thursday. Here's what's happening....

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Today is April 28th, the 118th day of 2011. There are 247 days left in the year.

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Bruins beat Habs in OT to take game seven.

Lightning complete comeback by beating Pens.

Here's the First Round playoff schedule.

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Today is the first day of the Gathering of the Nations Pow Wow. (Linky Link)

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USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – First Round

Eastern Conference

Indiana Ice (#3) vs. Waterloo Black Hawks (#6)

Indiana wins series 2-0.

Team USA (#4) vs. Muskegon Lumberjacks (#5)

Muskegon wins series 2-0.

Western Conference

Sioux Falls Stampede (#3) vs. Sioux City Musketeers (#6)

Sioux Falls wins series 2-1.

Fargo Force (#4) vs. Lincoln Stars (#5)

Fargo wins series 2-0.

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – Second Round

Eastern Conference

Cedar Rapids RoughRiders (#1) vs. Muskegon Lumberjacks (#5)
Cedar Rapids wins series 3-1.

Green Bay Gamblers (#2) vs. Indiana Ice (#3)
Green Bay wins series 3-0.

Western Conference

Dubuque Fighting Saints (#1) vs. Fargo Force (#4)
Dubuque wins series 3-0.

Omaha Lancers (#2) vs. Sioux Falls Stampede (#3)
Sioux Falls wins series 3-0.

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – Eastern Conference Final
Cedar Rapids RoughRiders (#1) vs. Green Bay Gamblers (#2)
Game 1: Friday, April 29th, 7:05 PM – Green Bay @ Cedar Rapids
Game 2: Saturday, April 30th, 7:05 PM – Green Bay @ Cedar Rapids
Game 3: Friday, May 6th, 7:05 PM – Cedar Rapids @ Green Bay
Game 4: Sunday, May 8th, 3:05 PM – Cedar Rapids @ Green Bay**
Game 5: Tuesday, May 10th, 7:05 PM – Green Bay @ Cedar Rapids **
** if necessary
(all times reflect local start time)

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs – Western Conference Final
Dubuque Fighting Saints (#1) vs. Sioux Falls Stampede (#3)
Game 1: Friday, April 29th, 7:00 PM – Sioux Falls @ Dubuque
Game 2: Saturday, April 30th, 7:00 PM – Sioux Falls @ Dubuque
Game 3: Friday, May 6th, 7:05 PM – Dubuque @ Sioux Falls
Game 4: Sunday, May 8th, 6:05 PM – Dubuque @ Sioux Falls**
Game 5: Tuesday, May 10th, 7:00 PM – Sioux Falls @ Dubuque **
** if necessary
(all times reflect local start time)

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Today is Take Our Sons and Daughters To Work Day. (Linky Link)


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DiFilippo Named USA Hockey's 2011-12 Brian Fishman Intern


COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - USA Hockey announced that Alex DiFilippo (East Tawas, Mich.) has been named the recipient of the 2011-12 Brian Fishman Internship. DiFilippo will work in the communications department at USA Hockey's national office in Colorado Springs, Colo., beginning in June.

"Being selected for this internship is a dream come true, and I'd like to thank USA Hockey and the Fishman family for giving me this amazing opportunity to grow professionally and personally," DiFilippo said. "Hockey is my passion, and it's a privilege to work in Brian's honor as I chase my dream of working within the game."

The Brian Fishman Internship is awarded annually to an outstanding college graduate pursuing a career in athletic communications. It was established in 1999 in honor of the late Brian Fishman, who served as the manager of communications and marketing for USA Hockey's National Team Development Program. He died unexpectedly on Jan. 7, 1999, at age 28.

DiFilippo's responsibilities will include assisting with various communication projects, event promotions and publishing initiatives, including working with USA Hockey Magazine.

DiFilippo, a 2010 graduate of Michigan State University, currently works for the Central Collegiate Hockey Association. As a communications intern, his duties include composing game recaps, assisting with marketing initiatives, writing press releases and maintaining the league's website.

DiFilippo has also completed internships with MajorLeagueBaseball.com and the San Diego Union-Tribune. The Michigan native has also freelanced for the Lansing State Journal, Michigan Hockey and Patch.com.

While at Michigan State, DiFilippo was a sports reporter for the daily student-run campus publication, The State News. As the beat reporter for the hockey and men's soccer teams for two years, DiFilippo wrote game and feature stories, produced video content, maintained a sports blog and participated in podcasts.

NOTES: DiFilippo will become the 13th Brian Fishman Intern. Previous Brian Fishman Interns include (most recent listed first): Caryn Switaj (Farmington Hills, Mich./Boston College), Matt Caracappa (Randolph, N.J./Penn State University), Carly Peters (Bloomington, Minn./Syracuse University), Chris Peters (Chicago, Ill./Iowa State University), Craig Stancher (Calumet, Mich./Michigan Tech University), Alex Clark (Glenview, Ill./Colgate University), Christy Jeffries (White Lake, Mich./Boston University), Caitlin Lazaro (Effingham, N.H./University of New Hampshire), Seth Cole (Blue Hill, Maine/St. Michael's College), Yariv Amir (Plainsboro, N.J./Colgate University), Cassy Maxton (Vandalia, Ohio/Miami University) and Jennifer Dame (St. Louis Park, Minn./St. Cloud State University).

U.S. Men's National Team Edges Austria, 3-2,
in Tune-Up Prior to 2011 IIHF World Men's Championship

Stapleton Notches Game-Winner in Third Period

INNSBRUCK, Austria – Clay Wilson (Sturgeon Lake, Minn./Florida Panthers/Michigan Tech University) recorded a goal and an assist, and Tim Stapleton (Forest Park, Ill./Atlanta Thrashers/University of Minnesota Duluth) notched the game-winner at 7:27 of the third period, as the U.S. Men's National Team scored three unanswered goals to defeat Austria, 3-2, in a pre-tournament game prior to the 2011 International Ice Hockey Federation World Men's Championship. The tournament will run from April 29 - May 15, in Kosice and Bratislava, Slovakia.

"We had a slow start, but played much better as the game went on," said Scott Gordon, head coach of the U.S. Men's National Team. "I was pleased with our speed and special teams play. It was a good preparation game and we look forward to the start of the championship."

Austria took a 1-0 lead 8:35 into the first period after putting a rebound past U.S. goaltender Ty Conklin (Anchorage, Alaska/St. Louis Blues/University of New Hampshire). Just over four minutes later, Austria extended its lead to 2-0 when Thomas Raffl scored from the high slot.

Team USA killed off a penalty to begin the second period before Wilson put the U.S. on the board at the 13:04 mark. While on the power play, Kevin Shattenkirk (New Rochelle, N.Y./St. Louis Blues/Boston Univ.) fed Wilson at the top of the offensive zone, where he fired a one-timer that beat Austrian goatlender Jurgen Penker high to the glove side.

Just under four minutes into the third period, Chris Kreider (Boxford, Mass./Boston College) tied the game when he stole the puck from an Austrian defender and sent a shot from the front of the net low to the stick side.

Then, less than four minutes later, Stapleton gave the U.S. the lead. With Penker screened, Wilson fired a shot that was blocked in front, where Stapleton poked in the loose puck for the eventual game-winner.

Austria had three power plays in the final 8:09 of regulation, but Team USA and goalie Al Montoya (Glenview, Ill./New York Islanders/Univ. of Michigan), who replaced Conklin near the midway point of the game, held on for the 3-2 win.

Conklin and Montoya combined for 24 saves in the U.S. victory, while Penker stopped 25 shots in the loss for Austria.

The U.S. Men's National Team will face Austria again on Saturday (April 30), at 10:15 a.m. EDT, in its opening game of the 2011 IIHF World Men's Championship. The game will be broadcast live on Versus and scoring updates will be available on Twitter by following #2011WMC.

NOTES: Team USA went 1-for-5 on the power play, while Austria was 0-for-6 with the man advantage ... Clay Wilson was named the U.S. Player of the Game ... The 2011 U.S. Men's National Team roster can be found here and the media guide can be downloaded here ... The U.S. Men's National Team's fourth-place finish at the 2009 IIHF World Men's Championship was Team USA's best finish at the tournament since capturing the bronze medal in 2004 ... The 2011 U.S. Men’s National Team is under the direction of the U.S. Men’s National Team Advisory Group, including NHL general managers Brian Burke (Toronto), Paul Holmgren (Philadelphia), Dean Lombardi (Los Angeles), David Poile (Nashville), Ray Shero (Pittsburgh) and Dale Tallon (Florida); Atlanta Thrashers president Don Waddell; and Jim Johannson, USA Hockey's assistant executive director for hockey operations. Paul Fenton, assistant general manager of the Nashville Predators and general manager of the American Hockey League's Milwaukee Admirals, is serving as associate general manager of the 2011 U.S. Men's National Team ... Scott Gordon is head coach for the second consecutive year after leading the 2010 U.S. Men's National Team, while Greg Cronin, Phil Housley and Barry Smith are serving as assistants ... USA Hockey's international council, chaired by Tony Rossi, vice president of USA Hockey, has oversight responsibilities for all U.S. national teams ... Versus will provide live television coverage of all Team USA games at the 2011 IIHF World Men's Championship. For more information, visit USAHockey.com.

GAME SUMMARY

Scoring By Period

USA 0 - 1 - 2 - 3
AUS 2 - 0 - 0 - 2

First Period - Scoring: 1, AUS, Latusa (Welser, Trattnig), 8:35; 2, AUS, Raffl (Unterluggauer, Raffl), 12:48. Penalties: USA, Stapleton (high-sticking), 2:52; AUS, Werenka (hooking), 15:35; USA, Komisarek (cross-checking), 17:20.

Second Period - Scoring: 3, USA, Wilson (Shattenkirk, Miele), 13:04 (pp). Penalties: USA, Stuart (checking to head and neck area), 3:24; USA, Stuart (10-minute misconduct), 3:24; AUS, Unterluggauer (tripping), 10:22; AUS, Hundertpfund (hooking), 12:13; AUS, Lakos (hooking), 17:34.

Third Period - Scoring: 4, USA, Kreider (unassisted), 3:58; 5, USA, Stapleton (Wilson, Porter), 7:27. Penalties: AUS, Philippe (interference), 8:37; USA, Fayne (interference), 11:51; USA, Fayne (tripping), 11:51; USA, Stuart (interference), 18:04.

Shots by Period
1 2 3 Total
USA 6 10 12 28
AUS 11 7 8 26

Goaltenders (SH/SV) 1 2 3 Total
USA, Conklin, 29:37 11-9 3-3 -- 14-12
USA, Montoya, 30:23 -- 4-4 8-8 12-12
AUS, Penker , 60:00 6-6 10-9 12-10 28-25

Power Play: USA 1-5; AUS 0-6
Penalties: USA 7-22; AUS 5-10

Team USA 2011 IIHF World Men's Championship Schedule
April 29 - May 15 • Kosice & Bratislava, Slovakia

Date Opponent Location
Time (Local/EDT)/
Results

Wed., April 27 Austria* Innsbruck W, 3-2
Sat., April 30 Austria Kosice 4:15 p.m./10:15 a.m.
Mon., May 2 Norway Kosice 4:15 p.m./10:15 a.m.
Wed., May 4 Sweden Kosice 8:15 p.m./2:15 p.m.
Thurs., May 5-Mon., May 9 Qualification Round Kosice/Bratislava TBD
Thurs., May 5-Sun., May 8 Relegation Round Kosice/Bratislava TBD
Wed., May 11-Thurs., May 12 Quarterfinals Bratislava TBD
Fri., May 13 Semifinals Bratislava TBD
Sun., May 15 Bronze-Medal Game Bratislava 4:00 p.m./10:00 a.m.
Gold-Medal Game Bratislava 8:30 p.m./2:30 p.m.

Arenas: Orange Arena (Bratislava); Steel Arena (Kosice)
*Pre-tournament game at Tiroler Wasserkraft Arena in Innsbruck, Austria

Jack Johnson Added to 2011 U.S. Men's National Team

Defenseman Joins 22 Players Previously Announced

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - USA Hockey today announced that defenseman Jack Johnson (Ann Arbor, Mich./Los Angeles Kings/University of Michigan) has been added to the 2011 U.S. Men's National Team that will compete at the International Ice Hockey Federation World Men's Championship, April 29 - May 15, in Kosice and Bratislava, Slovakia.

Johnson currently plays for the National Hockey League's Los Angeles Kings and will be making his ninth Team USA apperance. Most recently, he was a member of the 2010 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team that earned the silver medal at the Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver, B.C. He has also competed for two U.S. Men's National Teams (2007, 2009), two U.S. National Junior Teams (2006, 2007) and two U.S. Men's National Under-18 Teams (2004, 2005).

Johnson spent two seasons (2003-05) with USA Hockey's National Team Development Program.

The first 16 players for the U.S. Men's National team were announced on April 13, three players were added on April 15 and an additional three players were announced on April 26. Overall, 16 players have U.S. national team experience, having competed in a combined six IIHF World Men's Championships (2004-06, 2008-10), 10 IIHF World Junior Championships (2001-07, 2009-11) and seven IIHF World Men's U18 Championships (2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2009).

For Team USA's roster, click here.

The U.S. will open tournament play against Austria on Saturday (April 30) at 10:15 a.m. EDT at Steel Arena in Kosice, Slovakia. The game will be broadcast live on Versus and scoring updates will be available on Twitter by following #2011WMC.

NOTES: Eight players on the roster are alumni of USA Hockey's National Team Development Program, including Mike Brown (2001-03), Cam Fowler (2007-09), Jack Johnson (2003-05), Mike Komisarek (1999-2000), Al Montoya (2001-02), Kevin Shattenkirk (2005-07), Jack Skille (2003-05) and Mark Stuart (2000-02) ... Twenty-one members of Team USA played U.S. college hockey, including two current college players ... The average age of the 23 players is 24.3 ... The NHL's Atlanta Thrashers and St. Louis Blues each have three players on the roster, while the Florida Panthers and New York Rangers have two ... The U.S. Men's National Team's fourth-place finish at the 2009 IIHF World Men's Championship was Team USA's best finish at the tournament since capturing the bronze medal in 2004 ... The 2011 U.S. Men’s National Team is under the direction of the U.S. Men’s National Team Advisory Group, including NHL general managers Brian Burke (Toronto), Paul Holmgren (Philadelphia), Dean Lombardi (Los Angeles), David Poile (Nashville), Ray Shero (Pittsburgh) and Dale Tallon (Florida); Atlanta Thrashers president Don Waddell; and Jim Johannson, USA Hockey's assistant executive director for hockey operations. Paul Fenton, assistant general manager of the Nashville Predators and general manager of the American Hockey League's Milwaukee Admirals, will serve as associate general manager of the 2011 U.S. Men's National Team ... Scott Gordon will serve as head coach for the second consecutive year after leading the 2010 U.S. Men's National Team, while Greg Cronin, Phil Housley and Barry Smith will serve as assistants ... USA Hockey's international council, chaired by Tony Rossi, vice president of USA Hockey, has oversight responsibilities for all U.S. national teams ... Versus will provide live television coverage of all Team USA games at the 2011 IIHF World Men's Championship. For more information, visit USAHockey.com.


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Today is Workers Memorial Day.

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Glenn a fan of football in Atlantic Canada.

QB among Lions roster signings.

2011 CFL Schedule is here.

Donate to the Tony Proudfoot Fund.

Visit the leagues' official website, http://www.cfl.ca/.

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Jimmy finds an egg.

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Today is Poem In Your Pocket Day. 

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MINNEAPOLIS -- It was like a winter wonderland Wednesday at Target Field, complete with snow, Santa Claus and Christmas carols.
Baseball is not typically played in snow globe-like conditions and "Let It Snow" usually is not played over the loudspeaker. But none of that stopped the Rays from heating up at the plate and taking the series opener, 8-2, from the Twins.
Read the rest here.
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Constantius II visited Rome for the first time on this date in 0357.
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PITTSBURGH -- The Giants couldn't unleash their primary offensive force on Wednesday night. After all, they didn't put runners on base often enough to use Darren Ford at the opportune time.
Basepath mastery such as Ford's isn't as effective a run-scoring tool as hitting consistently. Hitting occasionally generates the type of performance the Giants delivered in a 2-0 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Read the rest here.
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Today in Elvis History:

1956 - Elvis Presley's recording of "Heartbreak Hotel" hit #1 on the Billboard pop singles chart.

1956 - In Las Vegas, Elvis Presley performed a Saturday matinee for teenagers at The New Frontier Hotel.

1958 - The Elvis Presley compilation album "Elvis' Golden Records" hit #3 in the U.S.

1994 - Lisa Marie Presley announced that her marriage to musician Danny Keough was over.

1998 - The Reader's Digest compilation album "Elvis! His Greatest Hits" was certified platinum by the RIAA.

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Virginia Governor John Harvey was accused of treason and removed from office on this date in 1635

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Today in Beatles History:

1975John Lennon appeared on "The Tonight Show."

1975 - Ringo Starr performed "No No Song" on "The Smothers Brothers Show."

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The first volume of Isaac Newton's "Principia Mathamatic" was published on this date in 1686.

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Today in Sports History:

1930 - The first organized night baseball game was played in Independence, Kansas.

1961 - The NFL chose Canton, Ohio, as the site for the Professional Football Hall of Fame.

1967 - Muhammad Ali refused induction into the U.S. Army and was stripped of his boxing title. He cited religious grounds for his refusal.

1971 - Hank Aaron hit his 600th career home run.

1985 - Billy Martin was named the manager of the New York Yankees for the fourth time.

1987 - It was announced that the NBA expansion teams would be in Charlotte and Miami in 1988.

1988 - The Baltimore Orioles lost for the 21st consecutive time. It was the longest streak to start a season in major league baseball.

1993 - Dale Hunter (Washington Capitals) executed a blindside check on Pierre Turgeon (New York Islanders). On May 4 Hunter was given a 21 game suspension.

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First night air flight was performed by Claude Grahame-White in England on this date in 1910.

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Coming Up: 

Tonight --

MLB -- San Francisco Giants at Pittsburgh Pirates 12:35pm EDT

MLB -- Tampa Bay Rays vs Minnesota Twins 1:10pm EDT

MLB -- Tampa Bay Rays at Minnesota Twins 8:10pm EDT

Friday --

NHL Playoff Hockey -- Tampa Bay Lightning at Washington Capitals 7:00pm EDT

MLB -- San Francisco Giants at Washington Nationals 7:05pm EDT

MLB -- Tampa Bay Rays vs Los Angeles Angels 7:10pm EDT

Nascar Nationwide Series -- Bubba Burger 250 at Richmond International Raceway 7:30pm EDT

Saturday --

MLB -- Tampa Bay Rays vs Los Angeles Angels 1:10pm EDT

MLB -- San Francisco Giants at Washington Nationals 4:05pm EDT

Nascar Sprint Cup Series -- Crown Royal presents the Matthew and Daniel Hansen 400 at Richmond International Raceway 7:30pm EDT

Sunday --

NHL Playoff Hockey -- Tampa Bay Lightning at Washington Capitals Time TBD

MLB -- San Francisco Giants at Washington Nationals 1:35pm EDT

MLB -- Tampa Bay Rays vs Los Angeles Angels 1:40pm EDT

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That's all for today. Thanks for stopping by, see you tomorrow.            

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