#nedlamont

[mitchbeck]

XL CENTER IN FULL CRISIS MODE PART 1

By: Gerry Cantlon, Howlings HARTFORD, CT - The XL Center seems to be finally reaching an outcome. Last Thursday, at its monthly meeting, the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) unveiled a cost estimate of $107.2M to update the nearly 50-year-old building. But this is by no means a done deal. This estimate was presented to the entire board of the CRDA by two estimators and the design team, SCI Architects, of the yet-still unopened sports betting facility at the XL Center and Construction Manager, Dimeo of Providence, RI. Unfortunately, they now have to marry the theory they presented with real-world economics, which is not a sure bet with rampant inflation in the marketplace. "It does have a 25% contingency built in (to the proposal) and it's based on the construction cost and material required, that's why the contingency is so fat and now it goes out for bid," remarked CRDA Executive Director Mike Freimuth. The CRDA oversees the XL Center and contracts with a private operator to manage it. They're on their sixth in 26 years. Currently, it's the Oak View Group (OVG), a Los Angeles-based conglomerate that bought Spectra out of all its building operations (more than 300 in North America) last November. They assumed the remaining terms contract that expires in 2025 to operate the XL Center, a deal "grandfathered" by a pandemic extension. The mantra now coming from the halls of the CT Convention Center, where the offices of the CRDA are located, and the state Capitol building is as well, is "land the budget." "If (the estimates) go $107M or below, we'll go forward. If the bids come in higher than $107M, then we'll have a different conversation and various questions before us. Can we find more money? Do we have done more engineering (studies)? Can we put off certain things until a future phase? Can we leave stuff on the table? "In that case, neither party, the state or OVG, would be obligated to go forward. So if we can't find a solution above $107M, we don't execute the agreement. "If we get below $107M, we can execute the agreement, which allows OVG to come in and manage the building under terms negotiated with them and investments in the building that will be constructed over a two-year window," Freimuth said. "And if it goes forward the next two summers, the XL Center will go dark during that time period, then re-open in the fall for basketball and hockey." The CRDA, the quasi-public state agency that oversees the 48-year-old arena that, 's owned by the city because of the water pipes that come into the building that help make the ice for the brand-new chiller system and flooring installed over the past three years. This spring and summer will determine the actual costs of a significant, necessary upgrade, which is the estimated above of $107.2 million. But the question lingers if that can be done for that money. The effort is an attempt to move beyond years of thick folders of drawings, colorful renderings, open public hearings, grand plans, and ideas coupled with inexact, wildly optimistic cost projections (a powerful feature of CT construction projects - never on time or under budget) that have changed over time and in the last ten years. The decision also comes as the CRDA is hip-deep in negotiations with OVG for an ambitious, yet not agreed to, millions of dollars in private investment required for this project and a new lease of potentially up to 20 years. However, OVG appears to be unfazed by the number. "We've been talking with (them) about the $100M range for two years now. The scope of the work we are putting out to bid and what OVG has wanted and expects, that helps them accomplish their building plans includes the stage reconfiguration (to a price point of 13,500 fans facing the stage), the loading dock issue (they did a study on last summer and made the necessary physical changes last year) all are important to OVG and our models," commented Freimuth. Accomplishing the 13,500 facing the stage can be tricky but is doable, according to Freimuth. "You can put 15-16 thousand people in there, but move the stage forward the seats behind the stage. You can recess the stage; you can get 270 degrees of eyeballs. The closer you bring the stage forward the more seasting you lose. OVG came up with 13.5 number," commented Freimuth. The renovations have focused on the lower half of the arena, known as the "Lower Bowl Strategy." It's an enormous task aimed at making the XL Center more competitive with new arenas in the marketplace for events in the 21st century on a regional and national scale. The idea is to help the venue turn a profit (which it never has during the CRDA term) and carry it through another two decades of functionality. A major renovation would target the necessary addition of premium seating to command MUCH higher ticket prices to match the market and new amenities and features they wish to install. There are also much-needed upgrades to the concourse needed for the building, which is inadequate in the 21st century, and becomes a glorified sandbox during large crowds. "We're responsible for the operating subsidy (and) in turn we pay them a simple, straight forward management fee. The deal includes an incentive mechanism and in the ten years I have been here, we've never triggered it." But are they making the building profitable? Has it ever been? "Maybe in the magical, halcyon days of the (Hartford) Whalers, they did. That's ancient history. Since I've been here, none." The technology systems presently are archaic. For example, its WIFI system would become priority number one. This is partly to accommodate the heavy social media posting and texting done during events and event seat food ordering. The CRDA will complete the full scope of designs in the coming months and seek bids for the different renovation components to see if the actual costs are close to the $107.2 million estimate and projections. "The deal is designed at a certain number. When they make a profit, we split it with them as they realize from their initial investment. At the same time, they would be responsible for negative losses, deficits, or cash flow. There are no guarantees in any of this. "The idea is that by reconfiguring the building for specific events, they can make a profit on, especially concerts. That's the big payday in these buildings. "We haven't been able to secure concerts for two reasons. "One, the building is technically (deficient) and physically tired. The second is the casinos (in Western MA and eastern CT) that can underwrite these shows to drive people to the casinos. You can't compete with that. "All we can do to compete is have a building that produces better revenue and operating expense profile and the ability to sell tickets in multiple, variable pricing and style of seats, and that's the concert business," said Freimuth. The CRDA and OVG want the numbers to come in line together. A ballooning of renovation costs will doom this project if returned bids are higher than expected. "The losses, pre-pandemic, were in the $2.5-3 range and during the pandemic was above $4M. We're coming back to the general $2.5-3M range," said Freimuth. The funding mechanism, a sunset of federal COVID funding known by its acronym of ARPA, will end after this budget year as it will be retired. Governor Ned Lamont has maintained two benchmarks he has not wavered or changed on that must be met before he will put the expense on the bond agenda. First, the operating subsidy must go away. Who will pay for it? As Freimuth stated, it rose to $4M during the pandemic. It was covered with federal funds, but with that money now being retired, it will be back around in the $2M range. Secondly, a private entity (i.e., OVG) must be found to invest in the building kicking in at least half the cash needed for the long overdue renovation when it finally does commence. The state isn't going in alone, and finally, the public-private laws will need to be rewritten, a most likely tortuous exercise to come. XL CENTER HOME Read the full article

[petnews2day]

Gov. Lamont signs law banning dog racing in CT

New Post has been published on https://petn.ws/pEnuc

Gov. Lamont signs law banning dog racing in CT

Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he signed legislation repealing state laws and regulation allowing for dog racetracks to operate in Connecticut and has enacted a new law prohibiting dog racing in the state, according to a statement. While there are currently no active dog racetracks in the state, Connecticut has had dog racetracks in […]

See full article at https://petn.ws/pEnuc #DogNews #ConnecticutNews, #CtNews, #DogRacetrack, #DogRacing, #HartfordCourant, #Legislation, #LocalNews, #NedLamont

[orbemnews]

Fallen New Haven firefighter laid to rest on Thursday NEW HAVEN, CT (WFSB) – A firefighter who died while battling a fire in New Haven was laid to rest on Thursday. New Haven firefighter Ricardo Torres was killed fighting a house fire on Valley Street on May 12. Thousands turned out on Thursday to pay their respects at his funeral. A firefighter who died while battling a fire in New Haven was laid to rest on Thursday. A morning procession left the New Haven Fire Department and arrived at St. Mary’s Church on Hillhouse Avenue  just after 10 a.m. “You have no idea, no matter how big the call or small, what God is calling you to do; but God needs you, but on May 12 on Valley Street, God needed Ricardo to answer the call, he needed Ricardo to do what firefighters do, and he did, no greater love,” said Deacon Martin O’Connor, who is a retired New Haven fire chief. The procession for fallen firefighter Ricardo Torres heads from the New Haven Fire Department to St. Mary’s Church. Torres was 30 years old, and leaves behind his wife Erica, his soon-to-be 1-year-old son Oliver, and another baby boy due in August, along with a legacy of service and sacrifice. Now, a family and fire department are left to support one another, while dealing with unimaginable pain. “Ever since I’ve lost you, I wake up every single day with guilt and sadness and pain over all the things I didn’t get to say,” his wife Erica said during the service on Thursday. Family and fellow firefighters described Torres as driven, compassionate, motivated, and someone who was always smiling. Adding he fulfilled a childhood dream when he became a firefighter just two years ago. “I may never understand why it happens. The world is in chaos; the world needed a hero and God picked you, rest in eternal peace my beautiful son,” said Torres’ mother Cathy Foster-Mendez. Family, friends, and firefighters from around the country gathered to honor his memory. Ricardo Torres, a firefighter who lost his life while battling a fire early Wednesday morning, always wanted to be a firefighter. The many people who love him said they will make sure that while he is gone, his memory will carry forward. “Ricardo will be amongst us and a part of us forever. Rest in peace. We’ll take it from here,” New Haven Fire Chief John Alston said during the service. After the service ended, several fire departments across the state honored Rico with a rolling tribute, lining each overpass from New Haven to Hartford, saluting the procession all the way to Hartford where Torres will be buried. Gov. Ned Lamont and Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz called firefighting a brotherhood. They said they were struck by the number of firefighters in attendance. Gov. Ned Lamont and Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz were among the dignitaries who attended firefighter Ricardo Torres’ services. New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker said he expected there to be between 3,000 and 8,000 people in New Haven on Thursday in support of Torres and his family. “We have seen an outpouring of support from the community around Connecticut and across the nation,” Elicker said. New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker spoke about Thursday’s services for fallen firefighter Ricardo Torres. Donations are still being collected for the Torres family. Learn more here. Copyright 2021 WFSB (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '471524917159477'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link Orbem News #Christianity #country #ethnology #fallen #firedepartment #Firefighter #Hartford #Haven #justinelicker #laid #lovedone #martino #mathematics #memory #nedlamont #newhaven #Politics #Rest #ricardotorres #Rico #socialservices #Software #state #susanbysiewicz #Thursday #Work

[ryanreporting]

Ryan Janek Wolowski State of Connecticut flag MTA Metro North Train from Union Station in New Haven CT to Grand Central Station NYC USA October 17th 2020 Connecticut state in the New England region of USA Origin of the Name Connecticut - The name Connecticut is from a Mohican/Algonquin Indian word quonehtacut which means long tidal river State Nickname - Constitution State Connecticut unofficial nickname Nutmeg State State Motto - Qui Transtulit Sustinet - Latin for - He who transplanted sustains Hartford is the capital city of Connecticut Bridgeport is the largest city of Connecticut New Haven is the second largest city of Connecticut Metro-North Railroad operates its New Haven Line from Union Station to Grand Central Terminal in New York City #Connecticut #CT #NewEngland #NewEnglandCT #NewEnglandConnecticut #NewEnglandUSA #VisitConnecticut #CTvisit #VisitCT #ConnecticutTourism #ThisIsCT #ConnecticutStillRevolutionary #StillRevolutionary #TheConstitutionState #ConstitutionState #TheNutmegState #NutmegState #Connecticuter #Connecticutian #ILoveConnecticut #ILoveCT #GovernorNedLamont #NedLamont #HartfordCT - Riverfest #NewHavenCT - Wooster Square Cherry Blossom Festival #BridgeportCT - Barnum Festival #StamfordCT - Thanksgiving Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular #MysticCT - Festival of Lights at Olde Mistick Village #NewLondonCT - Sailfest #BristolCT - Lake Compounce BristolCT - Mum Festival MeridenCT - Daffodil Festival (at Union Station, New Haven, CT) https://www.instagram.com/p/CKcsSy9hB-K/?igshid=1jrk3col5ubys

[mitchelkvedar]

#Repost @sunrise_connecticut with @kimcy929_repost • • • • • • Co-Comms Director's @mitchelkvedar and @senawazer a few weeks ago met with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to discuss a number of objectives ranging from expanding Energy Efficiency, like the Lead By Example program and the Conservation and Load Management plan, to gaining youth representatives on the Governor's GC3 Council (part of @nedlamont executive order #3) so that the youth are represented when it comes to the climate crisis. Sunrise Connecticut continues to look forward to working together with #@ctdeeppix and our allies in making CT lead on climate action. Thanks for having us! (at Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP)) https://www.instagram.com/p/B5A43_dBOe4/?igshid=1vu9dynh4fn9g

[ltlredx]

via Twitter https://twitter.com/LiberalFenix

[loconservative]

Tweeted

I asked @NedLamont to STOP using our family’s loss in Sandy Hook to wrongly attack @bobforgovernor. He responded by doubling down and saying he is “proud” of exploiting the tragedy. Vote Bob Stephanowski for #CTGov if you support school safety and Connecticut values! pic.twitter.com/zpU1FvHTV6

— JT Lewis (@thejtlewis) October 31, 2018

[betterlivingonabudget]

Don’t be surprised if u see this cutie in the next @nedlamont commercial! #vote @ctdems #nedlamont #education #womensrights #supportwomen https://www.instagram.com/p/Boz0DI-AaXEyHOAxAObhdI0fI1ZGsXn7vLJZFY0/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=afwkavd75jmj

[mitchbeck]

CANTLON: XL CENTER FUTURE DRAGS ON

BY: Gerry Cantlon, Howlings HARTFORD, CT - Like the oppressive heat wave we have been enduring, so rolls along the XL Center progress or lack thereof. Eight years have flown by, and yet still the future of the building’s future, who all agree is working on its past due date, pick your phrase. “We're down to two main points OVG is wrestling with. One, can we arrange concert seating for 13,500 facing the stage? It’s a price point priority in attracting future concerts," remarked CRDA Executive Director Michael W. Freimuth. He and OVG have seen Bruce Springsteen, who has played Hart City every year since his career began, is now off to play at Mohegan Sun instead. His last visit to the XL Center led to a profanity-laced tirade between his people and XL event staff on the night of his concert. SHIPPING AREA "The second issue is the shipping and receiving area, the new construction of the new sports betting facility, and how trucks for concerts and event shows can be adequately useful in handling cargo in both size and in quality to help calculate the costs. "HVAC systems are a big, cooling and heating the building. There are bills that need to be paid; it’s all a major component we're dealing with. We just spent a week in this blazing weather, coned off Ann Street, and brought in rigs of all sizes to work on various scenarios in thirteen different formulas we have. "We met with OVG and had discussions that are ongoing. We presented what we think is a fair proposal with our trucking results which I'm not at liberty to discuss. Once they get their figures from their engineers back, combined with ours, they can digest and crunch them on the load-in/load-out issue. Again, I can’t comment at this point. We don’t have a timeframe,” Freimuth said. He's dealt with trucks getting stuck in the elephant doors, damaging them over the years. It’s not a minor matter but a critical part of dealing with the aging, antiquated shipping receiving area cruising in on 50 years old in two years' time. LUKKO Peter Lukko, an Essex resident and co-Chairman of OVG, is very familiar with the building, the numbers, and the various contracts in the facility. He is a good poker player and keeps his and the company’s counsel close to his vest. When queried further, he would not commit to a yes or a no on OVG Hartford’s long-term strategy and thinking on the XL Center. “We're awaiting a report from structural engineers on what can and can’t be done. Till we receive that, we can’t put together our final numbers. I can only say, its weeks not months, for that,” remarked Lukko. Another piece of this jigsaw puzzle is the state (i.e., Governor Ned Lamont), which has yet to place on the state bond agenda the $64 million. Still, it was approved by the legislature a week before the pandemic hit over two years ago, but it has since been put on the shelf. There is no movement to bond out the money necessary in the legislation. Still, the preferred route is a PPP (Public-Private Partnership) that has failed every chance it’s been tried so far, first with a private company in Chicago and then with the Indian casinos. A PPP is needed to be done, and in theory, it will trigger another set of dynamics if OVG can get to the altar with the CRDA and its Venue committee and consummate this union between them. “Should we get a favorable read on this and know what OVG will invest toward the $65 million, and we get an agreement in principle, then the Governor’s office would be amenable to some form of a proposal going forth to send to the Bond Commission, it's fair to say, in what form, I have no idea. FREIMUTH COMMENTS "I don’t know much of anything at this point. We have so many moving pieces that have to come together. We don’t have a full read out on this thing yet, a positive outcome. It might still require legislative action to make everything as per a PPP relationship legal because the state’s laws in regards to PPPs are so old,” commented Freimuth. To no one's surprise, talks with the CRDA and Northland remain at an impasse/stalemate, and no resolution on the vexing Atrium/Trumbull block issue is on the horizon. The UCONN contract portion of the XL has not been finalized either. However, both men’s and women’s hockey or basketball will be practicing soon, with games coming in October. Stafford Sports is the third party handling the negotiations. How many games and which opponents will be there is yet to be determined. WHERE THINGS STAND AT THE XL CENTER Freimuth remained cautiously optimistic. “I think we can count on at least thirty events across the spectrum of teams. I think hockey won’t be in their new building till next year. It’s not ready yet, and I expect seven to ten of the thirty events will be UCONN hockey, but nothing is finalized yet. "The (Hartford) Wolf Pack are all set. The new schedule is out, and ice will likely be laid down in mid-September just before training camp begins,” commented Freimuth. The schedule with two fewer home dates is set, and the team is marketing with a noticeable presence on billboards. The sports betting facility component has turned out to be far more complicated than originally planned because of the supply chain issue has proven to be quite onerous. “It changes from week to week. I'll give you an example. We're still waiting on the videoboards. They're on a ship somewhere in the Pacific. We're not sure when they’ll get here to the port area. We’re facing delays of up to and over six to fifty weeks! This won’t be done till sometime next year in the spring. I really have no completion date right now.” The clock on the building’s functionality and sustainability, however, keeps ticking away as each day passes and is one major “catastrophic failure” away. "As was talked about happening eight years ago in the original building evaluation by HOK of Kansas City, MO and we could have a whole new ballgame to deal with." HARTFORD WOLF PACK HOME Read the full article

[mitchbeck]

CANTLON: CT HOCKEY OFF SEASON VOLUME 2

BY: Gerry Cantlon, Howlings HARTFORD, CT - With the completion of the 2020-21 AHL season,  it's time for hockey teams to begin the process of summer reflection, accounting, and planning for the future at all levels of the sport. The accounting ledger will be plenty red across the board from the NHL to Junior A hockey. How each organization and league will adjust to the post-pandemic world, one thing is for certain; it will contain more reduced staffing organization-wide. At the junior level, the Everett Silvertips' (WHL) Garry Davidson was relieved of his GM position strictly for financial concerns and not from any hockey issues. In addition, the Robert Morris University Colonials (AHA) canceled its men’s and women’s programs last week unexpectedly.

AHL GETTING YOUNGER

The AHL will become even younger than it ever has and likely will have a more homogenized schedule, a goal since the Pacific Division was born. The likely scenario is a regular season in the 70-72 range. Also, the number of independently-owned AHL teams will continue to shrink with the sale of the Rockford Ice Hogs to the Chicago Blackhawks just before the end of the regular season.

SPORTS GAMBLING IN CONNECTICUT

In Hartford, the hope for the recently signed sports gambling law by Governor Ned Lamont is that it is a savior of the XL Center preserving AHL and college hockey in Hart City, but the devil is the details of the law. What percentage of the new sports gambling entity, which will be run by the Indian casinos, sub-contracted to the CT Lottery division, and licensed to 15 individual contractors, will be responsible for the 64 million dollar installment? A quarter, half, or all of it? The new sports betting entity will have five entities to deal with the State of Connecticut. the Indian casino’s, Connecticut Lottery, the independent licensee’s, and Spectra/Northland, who have operational responsibility at the XL Center plus the CRDA, which oversees the building owned the city of Hartford. What are the chances of conflicts with that many chefs in the kitchen?

BONDING

This comes despite the bonding of $64 million, $10 million more than was asked for, passed by the General Assembly just a week before the shutdown caused by the pandemic. The Governor controls the Bond Commission, and he has been clearly reluctant to grant it, not putting it on the bond agenda since January. Moreover, there is no real sign that he will do so before the General Assembly session ends in June. The reasons seem obvious. The long-term state borrowing is running against the Governor’s “debt diet” and the significant legislative opposition, despite its passage to keep pouring money into the XL Center. Despite all the hurdles over the last eight years and the interminable negotiations with Northland Corporation regarding the title to the atrium at the XL Center, they still hold and acquire the Trumbull block for three years resolution in sight.

FREIMUTH

Could the proposed sports betting setup at the XL Center be a part of the recent discussions with Northland to resolve their impasse? Maybe. CRDA Executive Director Mike Freimuth stated two weeks ago, the effort to get the XL Center re-boot across the finish line was ongoing, but time was working against them. “This all is critical to the future of the XL. Right now, there is a lot of re-write going on in the legislature, but we're nearing the end of the session. I’m confident something will get done, what that will be; I really don’t have an answer right now. We’re monitoring things right now, so much of it is out of our control." When asked if any deal has to be approved by the casinos and the General Assembly and then signed by the Governor, Freimuth replied, "I’ve said it before, the longer this goes on, the harder the stresses will be on the overall systems of the building as time goes by.” It's doubtful, however, that sports betting will be the Hail Mary that will finally get the more than obviously needed re-boot of the XL done.

HOCKEY DRAFT

This summer, hockey will be an adventure post-COVID. The NHL Entry Draft will see the selection process be much more complicated with truncated seasons or no seasons altogether, so players' rankings are essentially a major crapshoot this year. Of the 228 North American skaters listed and ranked, just four come from the US college ranks, and they primarily played conference-only regular season schedules. Among the first six players, three are from Michigan, and one from the Vermont Catamounts (HE). The Central Scouting Bureau (CSB) released their last list before the July 23-24 event, which will be held remotely via video-conferencing, and a month later than usual.

CONNECTICUT NAMES

A few Connecticut names are among the list of eligible skaters and goalies. Cole Sillinger, the son of ex-Bridgeport Sound Tiger, Mike Sillinger, is in the CSB tenth spot. He played this year for Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL) and was slated to play for the Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) this year, but dual citizenship allowed him to play US junior hockey. Matthew “Mackie” Samoskevich (Newtown), who played for the Chicago Steel (USHL), is slotted by CSB at #26. He is a University Michigan Wolverines (Big 10) commit for the fall. Chase Stillman, the grandson of former Hew Haven Nighthawk, Bud Stefanski, is ranked 35th by CSB. He was to skate for the Sudbury Wolves (OHL), but their season was canceled. So instead, he skated for Esbjerg (Denmark-DHL) and Esbjerg-2 (Denmark second division) on loan this season. He also skated for Canada at the World Under-18 tourney in Plymouth, Michigan. Darien defenseman Scott Morrow, who played for the Shattuck’s St. Mary’s Sabres (MNPREP), one of the top prep programs in the nation, de-committed from North Dakota (NCHC) and instead will be attending UMASS-Amherst (HE), the defending national champions, in the fall. He is ranked 39th on the CSB list.

MORE NAMES

Matt Fusco, the son of former Hartford Whaler, Mark Fusco, finished up at Dexter School (MAPREP) and joined his brother John in the fall at Harvard University (ECACHL). His entire family, including uncles and cousins, are Harvard alumni. He is ranked 97th on the CSB list. Shane LaChance. The son of Bristol-raised former NHL’er, Scott LaChance, and his uncle ex-Sound Tiger/Danbury Trasher Bob LaChance, played for the Boston Junior Bruins (NCDC) and is ranked 110th by CSB. His grandfather is former BU coach Jack Parker. Ryan St. Louis (Riverside/Brunswick School), the eldest son of NHL Hall-of-Famer and former New York Ranger, Marty St. Louis, is heading to Northeastern (HE) in the fall. He was ranked 125th by CSB. He played for the USNDTP (USHL) team and the U-18 team this year. Matt McGroarty, (Westport/Brunswick School) and a Quinnipiac University (ECACHL) commit in the fall is ranked 205th.

GOALIES

Just 32 North American goalies are listed. One of them is incoming UCONN (HE) Husky freshmen Logan Terness from the Trail Smoke Eaters (BCHL). His CSB ranking is 13th. Among the 150 skaters internationally includes Simon Robertsson, the son of former Hartford Wolf Pack, Bert Robertsson. He skated for the recent Swedish World U-18 team. During the season, he split time playing for Skelleftea AIK (J-20/SHL) and is ranked 11th by CSB. Oliver Kapanen is the nephew of former Whaler, Sami Kapanen. He ranked 22nd by CSB and skated for KalPa Kuopio (Finland U-20) and joKP (Finland- Mestis Division-2). He also played for the Finnish U-18 team in the recent tournament. David Spacek, the son of former Beast of New Haven player Jaroslav Spacek, is ranked 75th by CSB and played for the HC Plzen (Czech Republic U-20).

INTERNATIONAL

In international goalies, there are just 13 players ranked. Nick Malik, the son of former Whaler, Ranger, and Beast of New Haven defenseman, Marek Malik, is in the tenth spot by CSB. He was slated to return to play with the Sault Ste. Marie (OHL) Greyhounds this season. Instead, he skated for the team his father is an assistant coach for, HC Frydek-Mistek (Czech Republic Division-2) and the Czech Republic WJC team. He has signed a provisional contract with KooKoo (Finland-FEL) for the upcoming season.

AHL PACIFIC DIVISION

The championship series went to a third and decisive game. A late third-period wrister by the Bakersfield Condors' Tyler Benson went through to the short-side on Henderson goalie Logan Thompson ended it. The win allowed the Condors to knock off the Henderson Silver Knights at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas 3-2 before a crowd of 7,420 fans. The Condors won the John Chick trophy as the Pacific Division winner and concluding the truncated 2020-21 AHL season. Bakersfield featured Luke Esposito (Greenwich/Brunswick School), the nephew of former Rangers and NHL great Mark Messier. It also featured former Yale defenseman Phil Kemp, who scored in Game 3, and ex-Wolf Pack, Adam Cracknell. Henderson's roster included ex-Wolf Pack Danny O’Regan and Jake Leschshyn, the son of former Hartford Whaler Curtis Leschyshyn.

AHL ATLANTIC DIVISION ALL-STARS

Morgan Barron and Tarmo Reunanen were named to the Atlantic Division All-Star squad. The pair were among the most consistent performers in the shortened season, and both earned some NHL time at the end of the season. Barron was among the top rookie scorers, and Reunanen top rookie defenseman in scoring.

2020-21 AHL Atlantic Division All-Stars

G - Jeremy Swayman, Providence Bruins (8-1-0, 1.89 GAA, .933 save %, 1 SO) D - Samuel Bolduc, Bridgeport Sound Tigers (24gp, 6+8=14pts., +5, 1 PPG) D - Tarmo Reunanen, Hartford Wolf Pack (21gp, 4+13=17pts., 2 PPG) F - Morgan Barron, Hartford Wolf Pack (21gp, 10+11=21pts., +8, 6 PPG) F - Cameron Hughes, Providence Bruins (25gp, 5+16=21pts., 1 PPG, 1 SHG) F - Jakub Lauko, Providence Bruins (23gp, 5+14=19pts., +11, 2 PPG)

PLAYER & COACHING MOVEMENT

Scott Pooley leaves the Toronto Marlies and signs with Lukko Rauma (Finland-FEL). His father, Paul, and his twin brother Perry played for five years in minor pro hockey between Sherbrooke (AHL) and Ft. Wayne (IHL). Former Wolf Pack, Hubert Labrie, leaves Belleville (AHL) and signs with Iserlohn (Germany-DEL). His last AHL goal was scored in Hartford three years ago. He is the 14th player to sign for Europe, with 10 of the league's 31 teams have seen a player leave. Ex-CT Whale, Casey Wellman, departs Kunlun (China-KHL) for Kärpät Oulu (Finland-FEL). Another CT Whale, Blake Parlett, departs Tappara (Finland-FEL) to Nuremberg (Germany-DEL). Former Wolf Pack and Ranger Dale Weise signs a one-year contract with IK Oskarshamn (Sweden-Allsvenskan). It was officially announced Monday by the team. Former Wolf Pack/Sound Tiger, Chris Langkow, signs with  Fehérvár (White Castle) AV19 (Hungary-IceHL). -Former Sound Tiger Mark Louis, after a year with HK Dukla Michalovice (Slovakia-SLEL), returns to play with the Cardiff Devils (Wales-EIHL), who resume playing in the fall. According to Swedish hockey media, Ex-Wolf Pack Carl Klingberg is close to signing a deal with Örebro HK (Sweden-SHL) departing EV Zug (Switzerland-LNA). The contract being offered is said to be 300K Swedish Kroner, a month or over a six-month regular season period that’s 1.8M Swedish Kroner, which is about $215K in US currency for the season.

URQUHART RETURNS TO HIS ALMA MATER

Ex-Pack defenseman, David Urquhart, leaves the San Diego Gulls after three seasons and returns to Montreal to become the head coach of his alma mater, the McGill University Redbirds (OUAA). He is ninth in all-time for a defenseman in points in school history. He's tied with former NHL head coach Mike Babcock. Drayson Pears of Alaska-Anchorage (WCHA) signs with HC Cholet (France FFHG Division-2), making 74 collegians signed in Europe and 87 total collegians to sign pro deals in North America and Europe. Goalie Dixon Grimes, the son of former New Haven Senators center Jake Grimes, signs his junior contract with the Guelph Storm (OHL), who drafted him two years ago. He played with the Listowel Cyclones (GOJHL). The ECHL Coralville, Iowa expansion team, affiliated with the Minnesota & Iowa Wild, announced its nickname as the Heartlanders. The Trois-Rivieres team is likely waiting for the end of the Canadiens playoff run before making the announcement. HARTFORD WOLF PACK HOME Read the full article

[orbemnews]

Gov. Lamont plans to extend state's eviction moratorium (WFSB) – Good news for Connecticut renters. Gov. Ned Lamont intends to extend the state’s moratorium on evictions until Connecticut’s public health emergency ends, according to the governor’s office. The moratorium was set to expire on April 19 and was designed to help renters impacted by the pandemic. The governor’s office did not state specifically when the state’s public health emergency ends. Landlords Eyewitness News recently spoke with have expressed their recent frustrations with the moratorium. The announcement comes on the heels of a decision that was made by the CDC to extend the moratorium on evictions until June 30. Copyright 2021 WFSB (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '471524917159477'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link Orbem News #civillaw #emergency #eviction #extend #Gov #healthboard #Lamont #Law #Moratorium #nedlamont #news #plans #publichealth #renter #States

[orbemnews]

Gov. signs bill banning natural hair discrimination HARTFORD, CT (WFSB) – A law that bans natural hair discrimination was signed by Connecticut’s governor on Wednesday. WFSB Gov. Ned Lamont put his signature on the CROWN Act just after 10:30 a.m. The ceremony at the state capitol kicked off a half hour beforehand. The legislation was House Bill 6515, An Act Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair. RELATED: Law banning natural hair discrimination in the workplace expected to be signed by Gov. Lamont The bill, which recently was approved by both chambers of the Connecticut General Assembly, expands civil rights protections by prohibiting discrimination based on hairstyles that are commonly associated with Black people, Hispanic people and others. Lamont was joined by a group of state legislators and advocates. Copyright 2021 WFSB (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '471524917159477'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link Orbem News #Banning #Bill #civilrights #Connecticut #discrimination #Gov #hair #hairstyle #Law #legislation #Natural #nedlamont #signs

[orbemnews]

Appointment delays reported as ages 55+, teachers now eligible for vaccine EAST HARTFORD, CT (WFSB) – More people in Connecticut are now eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Eligibility expanded to people aged 55 and older on Monday, along with educators and childcare workers. “Beginning [Monday], all Connecticut residents between the ages of 55-64 can make appointments and receive COVID-19 vaccinations,” said Gov. Ned Lamont. “PreK-12 school staff and childcare professionals in Connecticut are also eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccinations beginning [Monday]. Individuals in these groups will receive information from their school administrators and employers on where/when they can be vaccinated.” Lamont acknowledged that the newly eligible may not be able to make appointments immediately due to limited supplies. “We know people are eager, but it will take time to get everyone scheduled,” he said. “More appointments will be added each week.” As CT’s vaccination program continues to expand, those who’ve become newly eligible may not be able to make appointments immediately due to limited supplies.We know people are eager, but it will take time to get everyone scheduled.More appointments will be added each week. — Governor Ned Lamont (@GovNedLamont) March 1, 2021 Channel 3 heard from viewers who reported appointment-making trouble. Some said appointments weren’t available until next month. Lamont said the 30,000 doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which was recently approved for emergency authorization by the Food and Drug Administration, should arrive in Connecticut this week. He said that should help a bit. Despite the third vaccine, Channel 3 saw demand staying way ahead of the supply, at least as of Monday. That’s why people experienced appointment scheduling delays. Lamont called that unsurprising. “For people 55 plus, it was opened up to that group [Monday],” Lamont said. “It was about 600,000 people and we don’t have that many vaccines. [But] we’re getting [then] on a weekly basis.” Lamont said he believed that the state would be able to take care of the vast majority of the 55 and up age bracket over the course of the next three-plus weeks. Mass vaccination clinics continue to pop up all over the state. Hartford Healthcare on Monday launched its second mass vaccination site in the last two weeks. The site is at the Oakdale Theatre in Wallingford. Vaccinations started there at 9 a.m. on Monday. RELATED: Mass vaccine site at Wallingford’s Oakdale Theatre up and running Trinity Health also planned to open a mass vaccination site at the Vernon Annex on Monday. Other cities and towns said they’re coming up with plans for vaccinating school staff. The New Haven Health Department will offer vaccine clinics to their school staff members starting on Wednesday. “Also a lot of our nurses are in the schools already, so they’ll be setting up special days in many of the schools to make sure our school staff get vaccinated,” said New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker. New Haven partnered with the Fair Haven Community Health Center to operate a school staff mass vaccination site every Tuesday through Friday at Wilbur Cross High School. How long it takes to get the staff vaccinated depend on the vaccine supply, according to Elicker. Vaccination sites for everyone have been popping up across the state. Last week, Hartford Healthcare opened a mega vaccination site at Liberty Square and the healthcare provider said it isn’t finished yet. RELATED: CT Vaccine Rollout: Where to register for a vaccine if you’re eligible Under the governor’s age-based vaccination plan, more and more people will be allowed to get vaccinated in the next one to two months, and even more are expected to be vaccinated starting in May as the 16 to 34 age group will be allowed to sign up to get their COVID vaccines. Copyright 2021 WFSB (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '471524917159477'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link Orbem News #Ages #appointment #clinic #Delays #Eligible #Hartford #healthcare #immunology #justinelicker #Medicine #nedlamont #newhaven #Reported #resident #school #site #Staff #teachers #Vaccination #Vaccine #Wallingford #Work

[orbemnews]

Connecticut restaurant homeowners fear about modifications in Massachusetts SPRINGFIELD, MA (WFSB) — Connecticut eating places fear {that a} change in Massachusetts coronavirus insurance policies will lower into their backside line. Gov. Charlie Baker introduced on Thursday that he’ll rescind his state’s Obligatory Early Closure of Companies Order, in addition to an in a single day Keep at House Advisory. Baker mentioned each will come to an finish as of 5 a.m. on Jan. 25. The rescinded orders imply companies similar to eating places, casinos, and film theaters will as soon as once more be allowed to remain open previous 9:30 p.m. Baker mentioned Part 3, Step 2 companies should nonetheless stay closed and the momentary 25 p.c capability and gathering limits stay in impact till Feb. 8. Connecticut companies pleaded with Gov. Ned Lamont to make the identical change so they do not have much more hassle making an attempt to show a revenue. “Our faculties are simply reopening, our highschool sports activities is simply coming again, schools are simply coming again. We had a few the extraordinarily contagious strains of the virus, so I feel it is actually prudent to have a look within the subsequent couple of weeks, however I admire the development,” Lamont mentioned.  Beginning subsequent week, it will likely be considerably of an uneven taking part in subject and eating places which might be on the Massachusetts border are hoping they’re going to be capable to compete.  It has been almost a yr because the coronavirus hit Connecticut. Angelina’s in Enfield isn’t any completely different than some other trade. Connie Mendoza mentioned working the household owned restaurant has by no means been tougher.  “Completely different hours, not having a lot enterprise,” Mendoza mentioned.  Angelina’s has the plastic partitions, sanitizer, and on-line menus, all making an attempt to earn the belief of consumers whereas additionally proving to the state they’ll keep open later than 9:30 p.m.  “We observe all the principles, gloves, masks within the kitchen, use the right sanitation,” Mendoza mentioned.  Angelina’s is only a five-minute drive to Massachusetts and so they concern they might be on the shedding facet of this function reversal.  “We have seen individuals from Massachusetts come to Connecticut once we had the indoor eating and after they had been closed additionally with open air, so I imagine that folks will exit and attempt to discover a place the place they’ll keep out later,” Mendoza mentioned.  So, till Connecticut drops the restrictions, border companies like Angelina’s will lean closely on loyal prospects made during the last decade.  “I wish to help the city companies and the locations we go to quite a bit,” mentioned Nick LaFleur.  Lamont mentioned he’ll revisit lifting these restrictions within the subsequent couple of weeks. All alongside he says he’ll observe the science.  On Thursday, Dr. Anthony Fauci did say the vaccines have been efficient, however the nation continues to be in a really critical scenario.  Copyright 2021 WFSB (Meredith Company). All rights reserved. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '471524917159477'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Supply hyperlink #advisory #angelina #catering #charliebaker #closure #commerce #company #Connecticut #conniemendoza #coronavirus #highschool #Limit #mass #Massachusetts #Medicine #movietheater #nedlamont #news #owners #Politics #restaurant #school #sport #Springfield #Worry

[mitchelkvedar]

I was very stoked to see Climate Change activists bearing Green New Deal banners, and warning banners of a coming climate emergency outside of the Harford Armory last Wednesday at Governor Lamont's inaguration. These we're members of the public who came out to show their support for a Green New Deal for the state. I talked to these groups and they were excited to hear that I was Chief of Staff of Ned Lamont's Transition Committee on Energy Policy and Climate Change, and informed them of our policy recommendations (now made public). I told them that I believe that the Governor @nedlamont and Lt. Governor @susanbysiewicz seemed to take our recommendations seriously and seem to be on board with making Connecticut the first state to implement the Green New Deal, championed by @ocasio2018 @berniesanders . The protesters we're a mix of CT Sierra Club members and 350CT members, two important groups fighting the good fight. @ctsierra @350CT I was interviewed by @hartfordcourant correspondent Michael Hamad about my role as Chief of Staff of the Energy and Climate Change Transition Committee and I expressed my concern, and hopes for the future. I only saw two groups protesting. The "typical" anti-tax protesters present at any Democrat inaguration - and I was very surprised/pleased to see two separate groups of climate change protesters. It gives me hope for our future. People are starting to get active here in CT, and I hope to be a spark to help lead it all. Together we can do this! Following the Governor's State of the State address, I got to catch up with the Lt.Governor @susanbysiewicz , in which she shook my hand, I congratulated her, and then she looked at me, pointed and snapped her hands, and said something along the lines as "I'm excited to get working on the Green New Deal!". (at Hartford, Connecticut) https://www.instagram.com/p/BsqykNonBdr/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1mmtdlxzjs78x