2011 Summer Project(s)

With summer upon us in the hockey world, there is a definite void that needs to be filled between now and September. Once again, HBIC is going to set his sights on accomplishing a summer project where I will become a more rounded individual when it comes to my hockey acumen. To do this, I will be scouring thrift stores and used bookstores for books that catch my eye as I embark on the "Hockey Literacy" project this summer. Teebz's Book Club should grow by leaps and bounds in this effort, and i really hope that TBC is a feature you are enjoying. I know that I enjoy it, and this summer's project should go a long way in making me a smarter hockey person as well as a more well-read person.

With that in mind, I'm open to suggestions when it comes to titles of books I should be reading. I have a number of books ready to go, and I pledge to read one per week at a minimum, but I'm always on the hunt for new, interesting reads. That also means a new TBC entry once per week in the summer, so be sure to check the TBC drop-down list on the right side when making suggestions! Some of the authors I currently have waiting for me including Bruce Dowbiggin, Howie Meeker, Don Cherry, and C. Michael Hiam. I'm anxious to get started! Reviews will be posted every Wednesday starting next week!

Also, I plan on bringing you as much coverage as I can of the new Winnipeg NHL franchise when things happen. Tomorrow, the NHL Board of Governors convene, and one of the major topics will be the vote to approve the sale and move of the Atlanta Thrashers to Winnipeg's True North Sports and Entertainment. While it is simply academic at this time for the Board of Governors, I can tell you that I'm excited that the Winnipeg NHLers will soon be coming to a rink near you!

I'll still be dealing in all topics of hockey, so I'll have reports on the AHL's annual movement of teams, and there is already one team on the move as the Manitoba Moose will take up residence in St. John's, Newfoundland next season. I'll have more coverage on this during the summer, and we'll check out other moves in the rest of the professional hockey world as well.

Also, if you're an aspiring writer or a former Atlanta Thrashers blogger who would still like to write for a blog, HBIC is the place for you. I'm accepting any and all stories and story ideas from writers who may want to explore a specific hockey topic or who would like to see me tackle a topic. If you want to submit anything for HBIC's consideration, please send it to me at your earliest convenience! Not only will I feature your work, but you'll get a place where you can be published regularly without prejudice!

Lastly, for those of you who took part in the HBIC Playoff Pool, the mail strike continues in Canada which means that no mail is being moved unless you are receiving a Federal Government-issued cheque. While I have yet to contact anyone because of the strike, if back-to-work legislation isn't tabled by Thursday, I'll start shipping with another company. You have my word. Dan F. should have his choice already made, and we'll get that show on the road and finalized.

As a final note: this week's book will be Hockey Dad by Bob McKenzie.

Until next time, keep your sticks on the ice!