Posted on November 20 at 10:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This story is disturbing in several ways. Accusations will be made that may be unfounded, reputations may be ruined, professional opportunities may be lost. I pity most the young men; they are passionate about hockey and each aspires to be rewarded for their efforts. Most dream of earning a college scholarship or capturing the attention of a profession scout. Each dreams of fulfilling their passion to play hockey. We were billet parents last year and can attest to the character of the two young men we hosted as well as to the character of many of their team mates who visited our home. Without a doubt, there were a few pranks pulled along the way but nothing more or less serious than poor choices made by our own children on their way to adulthood. We viewed it as our responsibility to afford these two men a "home away from home" a safe haven and room enough to spread their wings without crossing the line. We found both to be respectful to us and to our family and guests. Our time as billet parents was short term yet we became acquainted with both young men as well as their families; all were upstanding individuals. They were a blessing to us and we were saddened when they left.

For those parents who chose to participate in the "pay to play" I can only imagine it was with consideration of attempting to fill their son's dream of playing hockey. It is misguided but which of us as parents can deny at the very least, the temptation to act similarly. It is what it is; the parties involved will need to deal with the decisions that have been made. It is a teaching moment for all and just how the situation is resolved will leave the greatest impression on these young men. In the meantime, let's set aside our bias and judgment, table the accusations and slanderous remarks and let the parties involved set an example by rectifying a wrong and moving forward with integrity.

On League finds Thunder allowed ‘pay-to-play’

Posted on November 11 at 4:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I was touched by this poignant story as it brought to life the magnitude of sacrifice our veterans make. Some sacrifices are visible and tangible and others are not - they are sacrifices nonetheless which must be acknowledged. THANK YOU veterans (and families) for the sacrifices each has made to protect the freedoms we enjoy.

On One soldier’s story