Opening The A

The 2012-13 Connecticut season started with a stumble, as the Whale blew a 2-0 lead to lose 6-4 to half of the New York Islanders.

In ridiculously-close-to-Ranger fashion, the Whale were handed opportunities to win and simply couldn't convert. But that does belie the fact that Connecticut was outclassed and outright dominated for the majority of the night. Two power play goals (on five opportunities!) in the third period made this one look competitive but, really, it wasn't. Given the lack of intensity by the home team, one would think they were still in preseason ... guess the lack of Camp Tortorella took its toll.

Not going to wrap all the Whale games, but I went to this one so why not? On to the Late Hits:

*The baby Blueshirts survived an early onslaught and actually appeared to get out of the first period not just unscathed but up 2-0. That was, until Micheal Haley got hammered by Blair Riley. Riley wanted to fight off the drop, Haley appeared to say no so Riley went to, I believe, Sean Collins. Collins, in his only smart decision of the night, declined the dance. Puck dropped, play went behind the Whale net, Riley laid a light hit and Haley lost his cool - and ultimately the game. The Sound Scum went into their room on the heels of Riley's decimation of Haley, surely enjoyed the intermission, came out for the second period and pounced upon the little Rangers to the tune of five straight goals. Textbook. Terrible.

*Gilroy was del zastrous: his shots were inaccurate, he couldn't hold the blue line to save his life and his passes helped no one. It is of little wonder he isn't playing top flight hockey overseas - surely no one wanted him. Sure he didn't have a full training camp and is still getting in the swing of things but, let's face it, he wasn't very good when fit - a healthy scratch for that poor Ottawa team in the playoffs.

*Kyle Jean was the top Whale player but that's not saying much because they were quite terrible. He has good hands, decent smarts and a TON of work to do with his skating. Kris Newbury had his moments but the AAAA player always does at this level.

*As @mavanco observed, the Whale forced their offense to go through Chris Kreider when the kid was on the ice - a philosophy that failed. On a team largely devoid of talent, Kreider will at least learn how to handle being 'the man.'

*J.T. Miller did virtually nothing, his highlight was having a Sound Tiger try to hit him and end up taking the worse of it. Although, that is more than Andrew Yogan or Christian Thomas had happen to them, so good on the first round pick.

*Missaen was stellar the first period, square to the shooters. But from then on his lack of rebound control and work-in-progress footwork severely hurt him, as did the team in front of him. It must be remembered that he is a project, one that is far, far from completion. And, man, is he tall.

*Wonder if they intentionally have terrible ice at the XL Center, just to prepare the guys for the notoriously rutted Garden.

*Not sure which bothers me more: that they sell a poorly printed replica puck for $9 or that I paid $9 for it. What can I say? I collect a puck from every arena I go to. I feel shame.

*The much-publicized $2 beer, $1 hot dog promotion was legit, although you certainly got what you paid for: two bucks for Bud Select headache water and a greenback for a poorly-cooked hot dog your grade school cafeteria served.

*Can cross out hearing Brass Bonanza in Hartford off the bucket list. Granted, I heard it at the Whale Bowl two years back, but that was outdoors and didn't count.

*Hartford hockey fans can cross out ever getting NHL hockey again. For the home opener - the home opener - they announced a crowd of just over 8,000 in a building that holds 15,635; and if there were 6,000 folks who actually showed up, that would be a surprise. Despite seeing some MSG regulars, it was clearly not a New York crowd.

*Three Stars:
3- Casey Cizikas - two goals.
2- Nino Niederreiter - one goal and two assists.
1- Kris Newbury - two goals.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3- Kyle Jean - the one consistent Whale threat.
2- Brock Nelson - one seriously talented kid, with (hopefully) one seriously miserable career ahead of him if he stays in the Isles organization.
1- Blair Riley - one fight by Riley, one win by Bridgeport.

 Opening the A: A Deep Dive into the New Art Gallery

The world of art is a rich tapestry, constantly evolving and adapting to reflect the ever-changing landscapes of culture, society, and human creativity. In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the opening of a brand-new art gallery, aptly named "The A." As we venture into this artistic endeavor, we will delve into its significance, the artists featured, the gallery's architecture, and answer some frequently asked questions to offer a comprehensive understanding of this exciting new addition to the art world.

The Significance of "The A"

The opening of a new art gallery is always a cause for celebration and reflection. Art galleries serve as cultural touchstones, places where artists' visions come to life and viewers are invited to engage with and interpret the art. "The A" represents not just the physical space where art is displayed, but a concept—a commitment to fostering creativity, dialogue, and appreciation for the arts.

"The A" is not just an art gallery; it is a canvas for imagination, a stage for expression, and a hub for artists, collectors, and enthusiasts to connect and collaborate. Its significance lies not only in the individual artworks it houses but in the collective impact it has on the art world and the community it serves.

The Artists Behind "The A"

A vital aspect of any art gallery is the artists it features. "The A" has curated a diverse and dynamic collection of artists from various backgrounds and disciplines. From emerging talents to established names, each artist brings a unique perspective to the gallery's offerings.

Contemporary Artists: "The A" showcases contemporary artists whose work challenges convention and pushes the boundaries of artistic expression. These artists employ a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and multimedia installations.

Local and Global Perspectives: The gallery is committed to representing local artists, providing them with a platform to share their visions with a global audience. It also features artists from around the world, fostering a rich tapestry of cultural diversity within its walls.

Emerging Voices: "The A" is dedicated to nurturing emerging artists, providing them with the support and exposure needed to thrive in the art world. Emerging voices often bring fresh perspectives and innovative techniques to the gallery.

Established Masters: The gallery also pays homage to established artists who have made significant contributions to the art world. Their works serve as a bridge between the past and the future, linking tradition with innovation.

The Architecture and Design of "The A"

The physical space of an art gallery plays a crucial role in shaping the viewer's experience. "The A" is no exception, as its architecture and design have been meticulously crafted to enhance the appreciation of the art it houses.

Architectural Harmony: The gallery's architectural design is a blend of modernity and tradition, providing a harmonious backdrop for the art. Natural light, open spaces, and carefully selected materials create an inviting and immersive environment.

Exhibition Spaces: "The A" boasts a variety of exhibition spaces, from intimate galleries for solo shows to expansive areas for thematic exhibitions. This diversity allows for a wide range of artistic expressions and installations.

Interactive Installations: The gallery incorporates interactive installations that invite viewers to engage with the art in new and innovative ways. These interactive elements bridge the gap between artist and audience, fostering deeper connections.

Environmental Sustainability: "The A" is committed to environmental sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly features into its design. Energy-efficient lighting, recycled materials, and sustainable landscaping contribute to its eco-conscious ethos.

Frequently Asked Questions about "The A"

How can I visit "The A"?

To visit "The A," you can check the gallery's official website for opening hours, ticketing information, and any special exhibitions or events. Many galleries offer guided tours and educational programs for visitors.

Is photography allowed in the gallery?

Photography policies vary from gallery to gallery. It is advisable to check the specific photography guidelines of "The A" before your visit. Some galleries may allow photography without flash, while others may have restrictions.

Are there admission fees for "The A"?

Admission fees, if any, are typically listed on the gallery's website or at the entrance. Some galleries offer free admission on certain days or for specific exhibitions. Memberships and annual passes may also be available.

Does "The A" have a permanent collection?

Some art galleries maintain a permanent collection, while others focus on rotating exhibitions. "The A" may have a combination of both, with permanent artworks complemented by changing exhibitions that feature different artists and themes.

How can I submit my artwork to "The A"?

Many galleries have a submission process for artists interested in showcasing their work. You can typically find information on submission guidelines and criteria on the gallery's website. It's advisable to follow these guidelines carefully and provide all required materials for consideration.

"The A" is not just an art gallery; it is a testament to