Serious Coffee's "Guest Barista Week" kicks off today with PEAK DAY!

It's guest Barista Week at Serious Coffee in the 10th Avenue Plaza....and 93.3 The Peak FM is taking over the store today to kick the week off....Peak staffers will be onsite all the way up to 5pm tonight (I'll be there from 3 to 5pm, so come see me) serving you while being put to work by the Serious Coffee staff....ALL in support of the RELAY FOR LIFE!



Hammer

On Location at Alberni Toyota!

Hello and Happy Saturday! If you are out and about today (or even if you aren't, its worth a trip) come see me at Alberni Toyota's FINAL CLEARANCE!

Opening Day at the new dealership is right around the corner, and they would rather sell them than move them so come get a great deal here at Alberni (still Echo) Toyota!

I am On-Location for 93.3 The Peak until 3pm, they are open until 5:30pm!

Hammer

Morning Show Host:
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
www.hammersdogs.blogspot.com

Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.

"The Way to San Jose" spoof! By request!

Tonnes of requests for this one after I played it on THE PEAK Morning show yesterday.

Big thanks to Bob Johnstone, Morning Man at our sister station 97.3 The Eagle, for sharing his creativity and talents!

Click the link below to listen to "The Way to San Jose" by Bob Johnstone!

Game 5 Review "The Way to San Jose"

AWESOME STUFF!

'Nucks to Finals, Christina Spence-Proteau to US Women's Open + Alberni Golf Update congrats to Eddie Gregory!

What a game. I don't know what was crazier, the Kesler tying goal, or the winner by Bieksa. At any length, it's off to the Stanley Cup Finals! Way to go Nucks. THE PEAK will keep you covered right through the Finals!

HUGE accomplishment by local golfer Christina Spence-Proteau over the weekend as she qualified for the U.S WOMENS OPEN July 4th to the 10th.  Way to go Christina!

Here's the Men's Club update - as always with thanks to Gerry Fagan

Fifty-eight players took part in the Alberni Chrysler/Toyota two man best ball held on Sunday, not a bad turnout considering it was a long weekend. After a one week rain delay the twosome of Brett Parhar and Ken Fong rose to the top to claim first prize on the gross side. Second low gross went to the team of Preban Rasmussen and Dennis Debolt, with third low gross going to Jacque Giovetti and Vic Carlton. On the net side first place went to old Smoothy himself Wolf Suhr and his partner George Defrane, second low net went to Mel Trelvik  and Gary Korven, third low net was won by Jerry White and Ron Clark,   fourth place went to Bill Kriwoken and Cliff O’Laney, fifth low net went to Bob Price and Doug Richmond and the final  net prize was won by Al Wright and Fred  Fredrickson.

Closest to the pin winners were George Defrane on #2, Mel Trelvik won $40 for the Charity closest to the pin on #4, Bret Parhar for his second shot on #6, Joe Baker for #13, Colin Hamilton for #17 and for the long drive on #5 it was Brett Parhar who won a gift certificate compliments of  the Westwind Pub. Dennis Frykas was the winner of the $50 Draw.

In the ball sweep Preban Rasmussen shot a gross 73 claiming 3 balls, Dennis Debolt came in with 74 to win 2 balls and Steve Acland won 1 ball for his 75.  On the net side, Ron Clark had the best score of the day shooting 64 to win 3 balls, Jerry White and Clint Wilson both shot 67 to win 2 balls each and Jacques Giovetti shot 68 to win 1 ball.

We had a couple of big money pot winners on Sunday, Jacques Giovetti won $20 for the only birdie on #2, Terry Rai playing in his first event of the season collected $121 for the only birdie on #13 and Doug Richmond Pocketed $56 for the only birdie on #4.

Next Sunday May 29^th. is the always popular Twin Travel Scramble, with a shotgun start at 8AM.  This is a four man computer picked event. Please register in the Pro. Shop with your handy cap ASAP.

The Rotary Club’s 3^rd annual hole-in-one competition Qualifying rounds will be held May 26,27,28 at the Alberni Golf Club. Qualifying will take place on the driving range from 11AM until 7PM each day with the final being held on Sunday May 29th. To Qualify all you do is hit balls to a designated hole on the driving range and the 5 closest to the pin each day, 15 in all, will be eligible to shoot for big prizes on the final day. You can purchase golf balls from the attendant on the driving range for $1 per ball or 12 balls for $10.There will be qualifying prizes awarded each day. On the final day there will be a shootout with all 15 finalists competing for some fabulous prizes. Men from 160 yards and Ladies from 140 yards.

If you get a hole-in-one on the first ball you win $100,000 If you sink your 2^nd ball on the first shot you win a brand new car or truck with a value up to $40,000, if you get it in on the third ball you win a $10,000 dream vacation. Golfers of all levels are invited to come out and try your luck, challenge your friends, make this a fun filled event with the possibility of cashing in big time. All funds raised will go to the Rotary’s Scholarship Fund and to Kidsport.

Huge congrats to my good friend Eddie Gregory, winner of this year's Team 1040 Award as Broadcaster of the Year! Sorry I missed this somehow at the end of last week...blame the long weekend!

May 19, 2011
For immediate release:

The British Columbia Hockey League is pleased to announce Coquitlam Express play-by-play broadcaster Eddie Gregory has been named the TEAM 1040 Broadcaster of the Year.

Gregory has been the voice of the Express for the past seven seasons and has been with the club in various capacities from scorekeeper to DJ since the club’s inception in 2001. He also maintains a blog called Coquitlam Expressions (www.expressvoice.blogspot.com).

This past season, the 29-year-old Vancouver native covered a young Express squad that qualified for the playoffs with a mad scramble to the finish but couldn’t get past a strong Surrey Eagles team in the opening round. In April, Gregory was in charge of media relations for Team Canada, a group of BCHL players that went to Russia for an invitational tournament and came away with a silver medal. It was an experience Gregory puts up with the 2005-06 season when he called games for the RBC Cup-winning Express team led by Kyle Turris.

“I’ve been on a couple of hockey trips over the course of my time and hockey has given me some unreal experiences,” said Gregory, who created a blog specifically for the Russia trip (www.thebchlinrussia.blogspot.com). “Going to Russia and seeing the team win second place is right up there with the trip to the RBC Cup. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I’d like to thank the BCHL for the chance to do it.”

Though pleased with the personal recognition, Gregory said he couldn’t have done it alone.
“I’d like to thank (broadcast partner) Gord Doerkson as well; we’ve worked together for six year and this is his award too.”

The BCHL believes Gregory’s unwavering dedication to the league and coverage of the Express through various forms of media made him an ideal choice.

“He’s long been a broadcaster in the BCHL and has gone above and beyond in promoting the league and Junior A hockey,” said league executive director Dave Sales. “The award is well-deserved for Eddie.”
Please contact the league office if you have any further questions.

Best regards,
Brent Mutis
Communications director
British Columbia Hockey League

So long Quesnel, welcome back Chilliwack

May 24, 2011

For immediate release:



After going to a vote by the league board of governors, the proposed sale and relocation of the
Quesnel Millionaires Hockey Club has been unanimously accepted subject to formal approval
from BC Hockey.


Chiefs Development Group (CDG), formerly the owners of the Langley Chiefs and consisting
mainly of Moray Keith and Jim Bond has purchased the franchise with the intent of moving it to
Chilliwack. Longtime Chiefs head coach and general manager Harvey Smyl has agreed to an
ownership position within the new group.



"I'm very happy to have the great support of the BCHL board of governors and that they'd vote
unanimously to bring Chilliwack back into our league," said board chairman Darcy Rota. "There
are still some points that need to be cleared up before it's official but we're sure that will happen
very soon."



CDG recently sold the Langley franchise but retain the rights to the "Chiefs" nickname. Nothing
has been made official yet as to a name for the relocating franchise though the last time the BCHL
had a team in Chilliwack, in the 2005-06 season, they were known as the Chiefs.



The Chilliwack team will play in the Interior Conference for the coming season and the league will
be realigned after that.



Due to the late timing of the application, BC Hockey will be holding an exceptional conference call of its executive committee in order to formalize, review and approve the sale and relocation of the club.



Please contact the league office if you have any further questions.





Brent Mutis
Communications director
British Columbia Hockey League
Morning Show Host:
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
www.hammersdogs.blogspot.com

Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.

A visitor...

The Holland America Statendam!

Morning Show Host:
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
www.hammersdogs.blogspot.com

Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.

Canucks/Sharks Game Day notes, courtesy Joey Kenward

‪

The Canucks will go looking for their 10th win of the 2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs tonight when they play host to the San Jose Sharks in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals.‬
‪
 

In Sunday's series opening 3-2 victory, Henrik Sedin (1g,1a), Kevin Bieksa (1g), and Maxim Lapierre (1g) had the goals for Vancouver while Joe Thorton (1g,1a), and Patrick Marleau (1g) replied for San Jose. It was the first time in this year's playoffs the Canucks won a game when trailing after two periods while it was San Jose's second loss in the post season when holding a lead after 40 minutes.

 

The Canucks are expected to make one roster move in preparation for tonight's game at Rogers Arena. While the team didn't take part in a full game day skate this morning, the club did hold a full practice yesterday at UBC's Father David Bauer Arena.

Jeff Tambellini took the place of Tanner Glass on the fourth line. If Tambellini draws in, it will be his second career playoff game and his first on home ice for the Canucks.

 

Manny Malhotra, who is celebrating his 31st birthday today, skated with full gear on for the first time yesterday since his eye surgery. However he did not take part in contact drills and is not expected back in game action any time soon.

 

Special teams definitely played a role in Game 1 for Vancouver. Even though they allowed the Sharks a power play goal, the Canucks were short-handed only once on the night. It was the second time in three games the Canucks gave their opponents one man advantage.

 

On the flip side, Vancouver finished the night 1-for-4 on the power play, with Henrik Sedin's game winning goal coming on the man advantage. The Canucks have gone just 2/22 on the power play at home in the playoffs, good enough for 14th out of 16 teams that qualified for the playoffs (9.1%).

 

Ryan Kesler enters tonight's action riding a six-game point scoring streak (5g,7a). His five goals and 11 assists have him tied for top spot in the NHL playoffs alongside Tampa Bay Lightning forwards Martin St. Louis (7g,9a) and Vincent Lecavalier (6g,10a).

 

Judging by yesterday's practice, the Sharks are not expected to make many, if any, changes to the line-up that was on the ice in Game 1. Despite making 35 saves in the loss, Sunday marked the ninth time in 14 playoff games this year where goalie Antti Niemi allowed a minimum of three goals against.

 

Joe Thorton scored just his third goal in 14 games on Sunday night. He was credited with a playoff-high five shots in the game.

Patrick Marleau has goals in back-to-back games for the first time in this year's playoffs. His next goal will be the 50th of his playoff career.

 

Here is how both teams may line-up against each other tonight at Rogers Arena:

 

Canucks:

 

D. Sedin – H. Sedin – Burrows

Higgins – Kesler – Raymond

Torres – Lapierre – Hansen

Tambellini – Hodgson – Oreskovich

 

Hamhuis – Bieksa

Edler – Salo

Rome – Ehrhoff 

Luongo

Schneider

 

Sharks:

 

Patrick Marleau – Joe Thorton – Devin Setoguchi

Ryane Clowe – Logan Couture – Dany Heatley

Torrey Mitchell – Joe Pavelski – Kyle Wellwood

Ben Eager – Scott Nichol – Jamal Mayers

 

Doug Murray – Dan Boyle

Niclas Wallin – Ian White

Marc-Edouard Vlasic – Kent Huskins/Jason Demers

 

Antti Niemi

Antero Nittymaki

 

‬
Joey

twitter.com/kenwardskorner
Morning Show Host:
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
www.hammersdogs.blogspot.com

Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.

Sharks @ Nucks, Game 2 tonight on THE PEAK, Gold in the Net Golf Classic, Alberni Golf Club Update....

The Canucks take a 1-0 lead into Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals tonight at Rogers Arena. Catch the pregame show tonight on THE PEAK at 5:30 with the puck drop and play-by-play to follow just after 6:00pm.

From the Canucks website, click to read the PREVIEW and the LINE UP

Special thanks to Perry, Deb and anyone and everyone else that took part in the Gold in the Net Golf Classic on Saturday to benefit the Aaron C. Cornwell Memorial Scholarship fund. Always a great time! Hopefully we will see you there next year! Someone commented about the price of the tournament - I certainly respect some things are too expensive for some people - keep in mind that if you went golfing at Morningstar 18 holes of Golf plus a cart would run you about $95.00. So $85.00 to golf in the tournament is actually a DEAL. Paying that much for golf isn't my style too often - but you really do get what you pay for at Morningstar - it's a great challenge and a very nice course that I enjoy playing on once or twice a year. The Alberni Golf Club is more my style in the end though!

Speaking of the Alberni Golf Club - here's the latest update from Gerry Fagan

What is going on with the weather? For the second time this season the Sunday Men’s Club was a washout. Not to worry the Alberni Chrysler/ Toyota two man best ball will be held this coming Sunday May 22^nd. It’s the long weekend but the weather promises to be much improved.

 The format is two man teams with the best net and best gross counting on each hole. The shotgun is set to go off at 8 AM. Please try to be there no later than 7:45. Register with your partner in the Pro Shop or as a single and Bruce will find you a partner. You can also sign up by phoning, 250-723-5422 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            250-723-5422      end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

Congratulations go out to Junior member, Greg Palmer playing at Arbutus Ridge May 13^th & 14^th. On the Friday he came in with an outstanding 73, followed on Saturday by a 68. The field consisted of 72 players from across Canada, including National Junior Team Members. Greg’s 4^th. place finish earned  him a spot on the Canadian Junior Boys Team. Way to go Greg. Jeffrey Dagg also playing in the event shot 80 & 73 to  place 33rd. in the field.

Due to soggy conditions the Stableford was cancelled on Monday, but will be held next Monday May 23. There will be a shotgun start at 8:30, although the early birds who wish to enter the competition may tee off earlier. If you compile 36 points which is right around your handicap you will automatically win $35 in club money.  The more points you rack up the more you can win. For those who may be off their game be sure to turn you score cards in as there will be several draws each day.

There will also be closest to the pin prizes of sleeves of balls, #2 will be for men with Handicap of 15 or higher, #4 will be for all the women, #13 for men with handicaps lower than 15 and #17 will be for all competitors. The cost remains the same as other years at $20.

The new score cards are working out well, thanks to Houle Printing for donating them.

Hammer

Major changes to BCHL for 2012.....

 Big changes to the BCHL for the 2011-2012 season....your thoughts?

Hammer

May 11, 2011

The British Columbia Hockey League has announced several significant changes with regards to its schedule, playoffs and team roster rules that are aimed at improving cost efficiency and player development for member clubs. The changes come about as a result of a recent meeting of the BCHL board of governors.

With respect to playoffs, the following changes are being made:

-       There will be eight teams that qualify for playoffs, four from each conference. This will accommodate the conclusion of the season being later and ensure a team is available when the Doyle Cup begins.

-       There will be just three rounds of playoffs as one round is being eliminated. This is meant to promote competitiveness in opening rounds though this change is on a trial basis and will be reviewed after the end of next season.

With respect to the schedule, the following changes are being made so BCHL games are more accessible for fans and teams can trim travel costs:

-       The 2011-12 season will begin later. Games will commence Sept. 23 and will conclude March 11 to coincide with the more traditional hockey season. Teams will be given an option to hold training camp starting in August as usual or push it back to September.

-       The league will be going back to a half-interlock schedule that will see each team play every other team but not necessarily visit all buildings. Regional rivalry games will be given more attention.

-       The BCHL office will be producing the schedule for the coming season. This will allow weekend dates to be maximized and may see occasional earlier start times on Saturdays to promote attendance by families. It will also ensure reduced travel for clubs with double-headers (i.e. playing the same opponent in their building Friday and Saturday) being incorporated.

With respect to team rosters, the following changes will be implemented for the coming season:

-       Roster will be reduced to 21 players from 23 as in past years. This will promote player development and ensure more players dress for more games.

-       Each team must carry at least one 16-year-old and one 17-year-old player. This is an effort to develop homegrown B.C. players as with the reduced roster size, these younger players are guaranteed to dress for games.

-       An October selection of affiliate players will be held. It is not a true draft and is meant to simply introduce 15-year-old players to the BCHL and keep them on affiliate rosters for the season. At the conclusion of the season, teams will not keep rights to these players.

“We’re confident these ideas will be embraced by our member clubs as we continue to work through our strategic plan,” said league commissioner John Grisdale. “The BCHL looks forward to implementing these changes and improving the product we put on the ice next season.”

Nucks off to Western Conference Final, Liam Darragh off to N.A.I.T GOLD IN THE NET GOLF CLASSIC, Alberni Golf Club update!

Vancouver, B.C. – The Vancouver Canucks released their 2011 Western Conference Final broadcast schedule today. Vancouver will host the winner of the Detroit/San Jose series in a best of seven series starting May 15, 2011 on CBC’s Hockey Night In Canada and Versus at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. All games will also be broadcast on Team Radio (AM 1040) and 93.3 The Peak FM, part of the Canucks Radio Network


Please note the following scenarios are dependent on the winner of the Detroit/San Jose series.


2011 WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL SCHEDULE IF DETROIT ADVANCES

#1 Vancouver vs. #3 Detroit 

Game 1: Sunday, May 15, 2011 5 p.m. Detroit at Vancouver CBC, RDS, VERSUS
Game 2: Wed., May 18, 2011 6 p.m. Detroit at Vancouver CBC, RDS, VERSUS
Game 3: Friday, May 20, 2011 5 p.m. Vancouver at Detroit CBC, RDS, VERSUS
Game 4: Sunday, May 22, 2011 12 p.m. Vancouver at Detroit CBC, RDS, NBC
*Game 5: Tuesday, May 24, 2011 6 p.m. Detroit at Vancouver CBC, RDS, VERSUS
*Game 6: Thursday, May 26, 2011 5 p.m. Vancouver at Detroit CBC, RDS, VERSUS
*Game 7: Saturday, May 28, 2011 5 p.m. Detroit at Vancouver CBC, RDS, VERSUS


2011 WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL SCHEDULE IF SAN JOSE ADVANCES

#1 Vancouver vs. #2 San Jose 


Game 1: Sunday, May 15, 2011 5 p.m. San Jose at Vancouver CBC, RDS, VERSUS
Game 2: Wed., May 18, 2011 6 p.m. San Jose at Vancouver CBC, RDS, VERSUS
Game 3: Friday, May 20, 2011 6 p.m. Vancouver at San Jose CBC, RDS, VERSUS
Game 4: Sunday, May 22, 2011 12 p.m. Vancouver at San Jose CBC, RDS, NBC
*Game 5: Tuesday, May 24, 2011 6 p.m. San Jose at Vancouver CBC, RDS, VERSUS
*Game 6: Thursday, May 26, 2011 6 p.m. Vancouver at San Jose CBC, RDS, VERSUS
*Game 7: Saturday, May 28, 2011 5 p.m. San Jose at Vancouver CBC, RDS, VERSUS
*If neccessary

Liam Darragh Commits to NAIT


PRESS RELEASE
May 11th, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


The Alberni Valley Bulldogs would like to announce 90 F Liam Darragh has committed to attend NAIT University for the 2011-2012 season. Darragh came to the Bulldogs midway through last season.


Darragh had a couple of other good opportunities with schools in Ontario and Alberta, but eventually decided on NAIT.

“I chose NAIT, because they have a very good business program, excellent coaching staff and hockey program. The familiarity of the Edmonton area and the people involved with the team also factored into the decision,” said Darragh.


“Liam impressed us with his work ethic, attention to details and his physical presence. We expect him to be a strong power forward for us in the ACAC,” states NAIT Head Coach Serge Lajoie. “I really enjoyed my time in Port Alberni. I met some great people and friends in my one season here and the fans were always awesome. I would like to thank my billets the Kailer-Dore's, the coaching staff, Tom McEvay, my teammates and everyone in the organization for all the memories,” states Darragh.


“We take pride in all our players moving on to the next level. I am excited and happy for Liam to continue his hockey and education at a great Canadian University,” said Head Coach/Assistant Director of Hockey Operations Paul Esdale.


The Alberni Valley Bulldogs would like to thank Liam Darragh for his contributions to the team and community last season and wish him the best in his hockey and education next season.



For more information please contact Head Coach/Assistant Director of hockey Operations Paul Esdale at 250.723.4412 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            250.723.4412      end_of_the_skype_highlighting

There's still time to get in on a very fun day this Saturday over in Parksville as Gold in the Net once again hosts their 6th Annual Golf Classic and Silent and Live Auction to benefit the Aaron C. Cornwell Memorial Scholarship Fund.

I'll be playing in the tournament, and also be the MC of the post-tourney proceedings. This is a GREAT time, and it's for a GREAT cause! Click the above image to enlarge for more info, visit GOLD IN THE NET on the web or call them 250-248-8143 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            250-248-8143      end_of_the_skype_highlighting

The last couple of years there has been a group of Port Alberni folks playing in the tournament, and they have always had a great time.

The big question around the Clubhouse was, where is Livio? Has anybody seen him? The rumor is he had a bad game on Sunday and went into hiding.

In the ball sweep Preban Rasmussen came in with 75 taking home 3 balls, followed by Tyler Ruel carding 76 winning 2 balls and Cory Nielson with a gross score on 78 to win 1 ball.

On the net side Dennis Debolt won 3 balls for shooting 67, Jerry white had  70 to win 2 balls with Darrell Van Os and Pat McKay each receiving 1 ball for coming in with net 71.

Closest to the pin winners were Tyler Ruel on #2, Cory Nielson won $25 for the charity closest to the pin on #4, Tyler Ruel for his second shot on #6, Steve Pointon on #13 and Darrell Van Os on  #17.

This coming Sunday May 15^th is the Alberni, Chrysler/Toyota, two man best ball. The format is two man teams with the best net and best gross counting on each hole. The shotgun is set to go off at 8 AM. Please try to be there no later than 7:45. Register with your partner in the Pro Shop or as a single and Bruce will find you a partner. You can also sign up by phoning, 250-723-5422 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            250-723-5422      end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

Once again thanks go out to our many sponsors, for their generous contributions this season.

In the blind  nine competition, Frank Hastings had the best 9 of the day coming in with a net 32, collecting $40, Tyler Ruel took home $30 for shooting 34 and Cal Davies also had a net 34 to win $15.

The Stableford competition for 2011 gets under way next Monday May 16, and is held on the third Monday of each Month until September. This event is open to both men and women. There will be a shotgun start at 8:30, although the early birds who wish to enter the competition may tee off earlier. If you compile 36 points which is right around your handicap you will automatically win $35 in club money.  The more points you rack up the more you can win. For those who may be off their game be sure to turn you score cards in as there will be several draws each day.

There will also be closest to the pin prizes of sleeves of balls, #2 will be for men with Handicap of 15 or higher, #4 will be for all the women, #13 for men with handicaps lower than 15 and #17 will be for all competitors.

Your points will be added together every Month with prizes given out for cumulative totals. The more times you play in this event the better chance you have of winning in September. At least 1 prize for the highest female total will be awarded. This may vary based upon the number of female participants. The cost remains the same as other years at $20.

Hammer

Nucks vs Predators Game 6 TONIGHT on The Peak, Pembroke tops Vernon for RBC Cup

Catch Game 6 tonight on 93.3 The Peak FM as the 'Nucks try to once again eliminate the Preds. The Canucks are 1 and 4 so far in these playoffs when they have a chance to finish a team off. Not a nice stat! Catch the pregame show tonight from Nashville at 4:30 with the puck drop and play-by-play to follow just after 5:00pm.

From the Canucks website, here's the PREVIEW and LINE UP

(image:hockeycanada.ca)

Congrats to the Pembroke Lumber Kings, 2011 RBC Cup Champions after a 2-0 win yesterday over the Vernon Vipers in Camrose, AB. The Lumber Kings win prevented history, (or hissssstory) as the Vipers were looking to become the first ever RBC three-peaters. I only saw the third period (come on, it was MOTHERS DAY!) but it looked like a pretty good game that either team could have won.

(image:hockeycanada.ca)

The Vipers had the advantage in shots and chances and territorial play, and from what I saw they were clearly the better team. However, in a game of this magnitude (one game winner take all) all it takes is a single moment to remain a memory etched in your mind forever. I feel for former Bulldog Ryan Renz as the moment in this game came on a Vernon faceoff win in the attacking zone that came back to Renz. He attempted a quick shot on net that was blocked by Jonathan Milley who raced up ice on a breakaway and wasn't caught before he slid one through Kirby Halcrow. Milley would later pick up a faceoff that was won forward at the Pembroke line, and then find the empty net for his second goal of the game to ice it. I have been with a team that went all the way to the RBC, and all the way to the late minutes of the Title game, only to fall a goal short, so I feel the Vipers pain. I still remember "that" play exactly to this day, and it was almost 10 years ago now.

In the end, a great season no matter the outcome in the final game. It may only seem like a failure because the Vipers have set the bar so incredibly high.

Hammer

Port Alberni Black Sheep in finals today, Canucks try to eliminate Predators, ON LOCATION today at Van Isle Ford

The Province League 1 final goes today as United takes on Port Alberni at the Brockton Oval at 1:30pm

Coquitlam based United RFC and the Port Alberni Black Sheep qualified for The Province League One final with matching 4-1 records. United led the table with 21 points having posted five bonus points during the regular season. Their one loss was to the Black Sheep on April 16 when they were edged 24-22. The Black Sheep punched their ticket to the dance in the final game of their regular season, defeating the Kelowna Crows 35-18. Port Alberni's only loss of the season was against the Surrey Beavers on April 2nd.

Good luck Sheep!!

The Canucks try to advance to the Western Conference final tonight as they take a 3-1 series lead onto home ice as they host the Nashville Predators. Catch all the action on 93.3 The Peak FM with the pregame show kicking off at 4:30 with the puck drop and play-by-play to follow just after 5:00.


From the Canucks website, click to read the PREVIEW and LINE UP

Don't forget that I'm On Location for THE PEAK today at Van Isle Ford from 10am to 2pm. Ford is trying to raise money for the Relay for Life today by giving away the three above Canucks jersey...from yesterday's blog post: 

WIN WIN WIN!!! Stop by Van Isle Ford between now and Saturday afternoon and make a donation to our Relay for Life Team and be entered to win one of three Canuck Home Jerseys, NO Donation TOO SMALL, NO Donation TOO LARGE. Luongo Jersey, Kesler Jersey, Henrik Sedin Jersey. if your donation is more than $25 you will receive a tax receipt.......

Hopefully we will see you there!

Last but not least, it's Semi-Final Saturday at the RBC Cup in Camrose as the Vernon Vipers take on the Wellington Dukes in the early game (2pm MOUNTAIN) followed by the Pembroke Lumber Kings taking on the host Camrose Kodiaks in the late semi at 6pm MT. Tomorrow's title game is set for 6pm.


 That's it for now! Go Sheep, Go Canucks, Go Vipes, and Go to Ford!



Hammer


Morning Show Host:
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
www.hammersdogs.blogspot.com
Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.

Quesnel to Chilliwack? Maybe..win Canucks stuff ON LOCATION at Van Isle Ford tomorrow, Dogs Jersey Auction...

Interesting read here regarding the future of the Mills, and the possibility of Chilliwack becoming a BCHL city again. 


http://www.bclocalnews.com/sports/121346919.html


It would be nice to have the 'Wack back in the league - they have some great supporters there, and a great facility. At the same time, I feel for the people of Quesnel - they are a big part of that community, and they also have some great supporters in the stands and behind the scenes that have given so much over the years to make the 'Mills go.


Question - which is worse - an old building in Quesnel that is in dire need of repairs and replacement...or an approximately 5000 seat rink in Chilliwack that will see I'd guess on average 1000 to 2000 fans a game in the seats?


There are arguments on both sides. I've called more than enough games over the last couple of years in Penticton, Langley, Vernon, etc - even Chilliwack when it was still in the league in the new building - to form an opinion...Even my thoughts go both ways. In the end, I'm just not a fan of rinks that are over 50% EMPTY. Which is the case more often than not in the rinks in question, at least when the Dogs paid a visit. I'm a fan for sure of the lighting, the broadcast facilities (except Penticton, a 25 cent press box in a 85 million dollar rink), and I know the teams love the dressing room and bench set ups, etc etc. In the end, its hard for me to pick shiny and new and half empty over old and dark and mostly full. The Coliseum in Chilliwack vs Prospera? No brainer. The old Penticton Memorial over the S.O.E.C? No question, I go with the old barn. I think I'm just going with the old barns for good ole' fashioned ATMOSPHERE. It's what makes a game! I've called enough games in the last couple of years in libraries to be turned off.


Unfortunately, old rinks don't pay the bills the way the new ones can. Wait a tick on that one though - how fine is the line between making money and losing money in a huge new rink vs an old one? Or possibly a more appropriately sized new one? While the newer bigger facilities certainly can bring in more money, they also certainly cost exponentially more to run, don't they? No matter how much you are saving with new energy efficient lighting and low-flow toilets and urinals.


New rinks are about PROGRESS and the like, right? Try telling that to the people of Chilliwack right now. Granted last year they would most likely still love the new rink, and love their Bruins, and love the WHL. Ask them today, and what's the answer? If the WHL comes back to the 'Wack in short order, I'm sure they still love the new rink? What if it's the BCHL back again? What if the BCHL says no - we want a committed team, and a committed market, and the PIJHL ends up playing there? What then? In the end these facilities aren't JUST about hockey, or Junior Hockey. They are mulit-use facilities. Concerts and conventions and trade shows. Minor hockey and other minor sports no doubt benefit from these facilities as well. So many ways to look at everything.I'll take the cozy friendly confines of the 1800+ capacity of the Dog Pound in the end, thanks!

I'll be LIVE ON LOCATION at Van Isle Ford tomorrow from 10am to 2pm on behalf of 93.3 The Peak FM. The folks at Ford have asked me to pass along some details on how you can support a great cause, AND win a beauty Canucks jersey....

WIN WIN WIN!!! Stop by Van Isle Ford between now and Saturday afternoon and make a donation to our Relay for Life Team and be entered to win one of three Canuck Home Jerseys, NO Donation TOO SMALL, NO Donation TOO LARGE. Luongo Jersey, Kesler Jersey, Henrik Sedin Jersey. if your donation is more than $25 you will receive a tax receipt.......

Hopefully we'll see you there tomorrow!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



Have a chance to own your favorite Bulldog players game worn jersey from the 2010-2011 season.
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are currently auctioning off their set of white jerseys by way of bidding online at www.albernivalleybulldogs.com. To bid, please click on the Jersey Auction tab located on the top right hand side of the webpage.





The Jersey Auction will end May 27th 2011 at 5:00 pm. Jersey’s will be available to pick up at the Bulldogs Office Tuesday May 31st starting at 10:00am



Visit the Bulldogs website at www.albernivalleybulldogs.com and follow the tab or contact the Bulldogs Office at 250-723-4412 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            250-723-4412      end_of_the_skype_highlighting  get your very own Bulldogs Game Worn Jersey.





Hammer

Earlier start - Game 4 tonight, Nucks @ Preds

It's a BIG one tonight, maybe made even bigger by the San Jose Shark win last night to take a 3-0 series lead over the Wings, as the Canucks take a 2-1 series lead into tonight's Game 4 in Nashville. NOTE THE EARLIER START TIME, as Game 4 starts half an hour earlier than Game 3. Catch the pregame show on 93.3 The Peak FM at 5:00, with the play-by-play to follow at 5:30

From the Canucks website, click to read the PREVIEW and  LINE UP


Hammer

Canucks @ Predators Game 3 tonight on THE PEAK...

Music City will be more about rock thank honky tonk tonight as the Predators host their first ever second round game. I predict that people who haven't watched a game from Nashville will be blown away by the noise and support the Preds get. Not an easy place at all to get a win, so here's hoping the Canucks show up en masse for this huge game tonight.

Catch the pregame show at 5:30 with the puck drop and play by play to follow just after 6:00 on 93.3 The Peak FM, part of the Canucks Radio Network.

From the Canucks website, click to read the PREVIEW and LINE UP

Preds fans. Loud. Passionate. Awesome.


Hammer