1.25.2008

Friday, January 25, 2008

A CLASS ACT.....

Last night I had the privilege of attending BRIAN LEETCH night at Madison Square Garden (along with THE DON), to see his number retired to the Garden's rafters. As a hockey fan, attending an event such as a retirement ceremony makes for a special night; especially when the person being honored is the consummate professional, such as LEETCH.


As I arrived at MSG, the place was buzzing with electricity as die-hard Ranger fans were excited to get inside before the ceremony began. As we made our way to our seats, I couldn't help but to get chills up my spine as I knew that I was about to be a part of a special evening.

As the participants of the ceremony began coming out, the crowd was going crazy with anticipation for the guest of honor himself; and when he finally came out and spoke with the fans, the Garden faithful hung on his every word and showed their appreciation at every opportunity. It was really nice.

He was also reacquainted with former teammates, and given a beautiful Harley Davidson Motorcycle by the team. The Rangers also contributed $25,000 to a memorial foundation in honor of his best friend, who died in 9/11. A nice touch.

The best part of the ceremony (for me) was when LEETCH made a surprise announcement declaring that next year, the NY Rangers would honor his good friend and teammate, ADAM GRAVES by retiring his number. That announcement stunned the crowd as well as GRAVES himself; the crowd then erupted in applause and the poor guy practically broke down in tears of happiness. Good stuff.

Then came the moment everyone was waiting for: The raising of the #2 Banner.

Flashbulbs dominated the scene as the Garden lowered its lights and began to raise the banner, effectively retiring BRIAN LEETCH's number forever. The place went crazy and it was indeed a touching moment.

I have to say, I was impressed by the ceremony; it was tastefully done and hit all the proper notes. This moment couldn't have happened to a nicer guy, truly deserving of this honor and I was happy to be a part of it. Thanks to FIRE MARSHALL ED for covering for me so that I could attend. Giddy-up!

WEEKEND HAPPENINGS

FRIDAY: After-Work Happy Hour (5pm-10pm): $4.00 all Beers, Mixed Well Drinks and House Wines!

SATURDAY: "Kick the Keg" Saturday (12pm-8pm): $2.00 mugs, ALL BEERS ON TAP! Molson Canadian NHL All-Star Game Promo (8pm-10pm); $3.00 Molson Canadian drafts- Autographed Jersey Giveaways!!!

SUNDAY: SUNDAY-FUNDAY! $3.00 Bud/Bud Light drafts ALL DAY LONG! Board and card games available for use.


ONE FINAL NOTE: Is anyone actually going to see the new RAMBO movie this weekend? Seriously.....
I've met the man.... and I gotta say, I ain't that impressed.




Hope to see everyone this weekend!



NUFF said

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

You look so young in that picture, no white stubble in the beard, actually have some boyish charm to you!

I know Stallone is short, like really short. Swandad, I think you have to start wearing some high heels. Pink ones.