Archives for January 3, 2003

Dumont, paired with Barnes and Ales Kotalik for the first time, finished with two goals and an assist. Barnes added a goal and an assist and Kotalik had two assists.

They registered at least five goals in a game for the first time since November 22, when they snapped their winless streak at a team record-tying 12 games (0-9-2-1) against Columbus.

'Assemblyman Robin Schimminger (D) 140th District: “When a business is endangered in New York State, a business which brings benefit to the economy of the state — it is entirely appropriate for government to come forward. It is almost expected." What is Hamister's big ask? Thirty million dollars in state loans — and loan extensions — to pay for improvements at the arena, including a new sound system, a special curtain for smaller performances, and electronic ribbon advertising.'

'Bill Daly, the league's chief legal officer, said the NHL granted Hamister more time because progress was being made in talks with state, county and city officials. The bid is contingent on support from New York state, Erie County and the city of Buffalo to cover debts related to six-year-old HSBC Arena. Without help, Hamister said he would withdraw his bid.'

'Critical in getting the politicians on board was Hamister's explanation that he is not seeking public money to help purchase the team. Instead, Hamister asked for the state to refinance a $22.9 million loan on the construction of HSBC Arena, the Sabres' home, and $10 million in capital improvements to the six-year-old facility. He also stressed that no public funds would go toward the reported $70 million purchase of the franchise.'

'The labor federation, consisting of five AFL-CIO councils representing more than 150,000 workers, said they jointly favor public aid to the arena in order to retain some 1,100 jobs related to the arena and hockey team. Labor officials place the economic impact of those jobs at $65 million annually.'

'Ruff insisted Thursday that Martin Biron is still the team's No. 1 goalie despite recent shaky moments. But the coach added Miller will start as long as he continues to impress. Miller nearly earned his first NHL shutout in a 1-0 overtime loss to the New York Islanders on Tuesday.'

'"There's concern around the league," Sabres coach Lindy Ruff said. "It's not just focused on one city. But I think it says a whole lot of the game and the amount the players make now. The game isn't in as good a shape as it was years ago. You hope to get it back to where it was."'

'D Alexei Zhitnik hasn't scored a goal since Nov. 24, 2001.'

'The two-tiered parking deck would be county-owned and would not be built solely for the Sabres' benefit, he said. The Sabres, however, are likely to gain revenue from the facility for team-related events.'