*There are eight teams split in two divisions - the Gretzky and the Howe. The Rangers are in the Great One's, as are Columbus, Carolina and Minnesota. Atlanta will not be back this year but Stevie Ys Bolts will take their place in the Howe alongside St. Louis, Dallas and Detroit. The Blueshirts finished third in '09, with Carolina beating Minnesota for the title. Other teams have yet to release their rosters but the likelihood of the Canes repeating is slim as Brandon Sutter and Jamie McBain are now NHLers. My guess is that the Blues, who the Rangers defeated for third, will be tough to beat as they have a lot of good, young talent yet to break their NHL roster.*Only a select few will be able to actually watch the games as the NHL Network has decided to cheap out and not cover the tournament. Because you need to watch the top 10 goals of 2001 or Game 3 of this season's Bruins/Sabres series again. The other sports networks cover their sports year round, why doesn't the NHL? Oh yeah, Gary's 7.2 million dollar salary has to come from somewhere.
*The 'big' names on the Ranger roster will be Derek Stepan, Evgeny Grachev, Ryan McDonagh and Dylan McIlrath. Grachev is one of seven Future Blue playing for the second straight year. Hopefully McIlrath will show signs of the play that I saw that made me the only one outside of Gordie Clark to select McIlrath for the Blueshirts.
*Sam Klassen is one of the eight returnees. He had a good showing last September and I'd love to see him star this time around. Goaltender Scott Stajcer split time with Chad DosNueve last time and was clearly the inferior goaltender. This time he will go against Cameron Talbot, a college kid the Rangers signed this spring. Stajcer needs a good showing so he can show he isn't another Antoine Lafleur. Ethan Werek and Roman Horak both return after having solid seasons. Jess at Prospect Park has raved about the development of both so Traverse City should be a good test of their progress.
*Five of the six players the Rangers selected at the draft will be in Michigan, only Jesper Fasth won't be making it. We will finally get a chance to hear about the virtually unknown Jason Wilson and see if Randy McNaught has any skill to go with his size (I doubt it). Christian Thomas can line up alongside returnee Ryan Bourque to see who is shorter, who is faster and who has the better sniping skills.
*There are, of course, a few undrafted free agents on the roster. Undersized at 5'10, 178, Brendan Shinnimin from Tri Cities will try to show off the skills and toughness that led him to pick up 107 points and 111 PIM over the Americans' 92 games last season (including playoffs). That is the kind of score line that has me drooling but he did that against kids, could he do it against men far bigger and stronger than himself? One of Dale Hunter's proteges in London, Colin Martin has decent size (6'1, 205) but questionable talent - he had 33 points in 62 regular season games but 11 in 10 postseason. Both Shinnimin and Martin are forwards, on the blueline will be Bruin Brandon Manning. Not Boston Bruin but Chilliwack. His numbers - 75 games, 60 points and 148 PIM - are fantastic for a defenseman, leading me to believe that there is a major flaw somewhere in his game as he went undrafted. Let's hope not and hope that the Rangers giving him a chance gives them a chance to sign a diamond in the rough.*Unless something significant happens - the Rangers don't sign Frolov after all, Sather pulls a trade out of his nether regions, a major injury bug sweeps Broadway - the likelihood that any of these kids will pull on Blueshirts this season is not particularly good. That means that Traverse City will be the lone spot where we can see whether this new "commitment to youth" by the Ranger brass is paying off. Fingers crossed!
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Traverse City Primer: A Gem of Northern Michigan
Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is a picturesque gem of Northern Michigan, known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and vibrant cultural scene. Often dubbed the "Cherry Capital of the World" for its abundant cherry orchards, Traverse City offers a unique blend of recreational activities, culinary delights, and a warm community spirit. In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive primer on Traverse City, exploring its history, attractions, outdoor adventures, and answering frequently asked questions about this charming destination.
A Brief History of Traverse City
Traverse City's history is as rich and diverse as its landscape. Originally inhabited by the Odawa and Ojibwa tribes, the area now known as Traverse City was a hub for fur trading in the 18th century. The city's name is derived from the French term "La Grande Traverse," which refers to the long bay formed by Lake Michigan.
Traverse City experienced significant growth in the mid-1800s when European settlers began to establish farms and businesses in the region. Its position as a bustling lumber town and port city contributed to its prosperity.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Traverse City's reputation as an ideal summer resort destination grew, thanks to its pristine lakes, lush forests, and a mild climate. The city's cultural and artistic scene flourished, and it became known for its cherry orchards, a reputation that endures to this day.
Top Attractions in Traverse City
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Voted "The Most Beautiful Place in America" by Good Morning America, this national lakeshore offers stunning vistas, hiking trails, and miles of sandy beaches.
Traverse City Beaches: Traverse City boasts several beautiful beaches, including Clinch Park Beach and Bryant Park Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports.
Cherry Festival: Traverse City is renowned for its National Cherry Festival, a week-long celebration of all things cherry-related, including parades, live music, and delicious cherry-themed treats.
Wineries and Breweries: The region is home to numerous wineries and breweries, offering tastings and tours. Don't miss the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail and the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail.
Downtown Traverse City: Explore the vibrant downtown area with its charming shops, art galleries, and a wide range of restaurants serving locally sourced cuisine.
Traverse City Film Festival: Founded by filmmaker Michael Moore, this annual festival showcases independent and foreign films, drawing cinephiles from around the world.
Outdoor Adventures
Traverse City's natural beauty provides a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some popular activities:
Hiking and Biking: Traverse City offers numerous trails for hiking and biking, including the TART Trail and the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle along the pristine waters of the Boardman River, Crystal Lake, or the Platte River for a serene experience.
Fishing: The area is a haven for anglers, with opportunities for both freshwater and fly fishing.
Winter Sports: In the winter, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice fishing in the surrounding areas.
Golf: Traverse City features several championship golf courses set amid picturesque landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is the best time to visit Traverse City?
Traverse City is a year-round destination. Summer offers warm weather and outdoor activities, while fall boasts beautiful foliage. Winter is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, and spring offers a quieter, more affordable experience.
2. Is Traverse City a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Traverse City is very family-friendly. There are numerous attractions and outdoor activities suitable for families, including beaches, hiking trails, and family-oriented events.
3. What is the local cuisine like in Traverse City?
Traverse City is known for its farm-to-table cuisine. You'll find a wide variety of restaurants serving fresh, locally sourced dishes, including cherry-inspired creations.
4. Are there cultural events and festivals throughout the year?
Yes, Traverse City hosts cultural events and festivals year-round, including the Traverse City Film Festival, Cherry Festival, and various arts and music events.
*5. Can I visit the cherry orchards and wineries?
Yes, you can visit cherry orchards and wineries. Many offer tours and tastings, allowing you to experience Traverse City's agricultural heritage.
Traverse City, with its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique Northern Michigan experience. Whether you're indulging in cherry treats at the Cherry Festival, exploring the dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, or savoring locally sourced cuisine, Traverse City has something to offer everyone. Its warm community spirit, outdoor adventures, and picturesque landscapes make it a memorable and cherished destination for visitors from around the world.
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