Saturday, January 1, 2011

AMERICANS - CHIEFS GAME POSTPONED

Press Release

KENNEWICK, WA – Due to unsafe playing conditions on the ice surface, the December 31 contest between the Spokane Chiefs and Tri-City Americans was postponed with 17:25 remaining in the second period and the game tied at 1.

Following a collision at the Americans’ player’s bench, an approximately one-foot long hole developed in the playing surface. After a substantial amount of effort between the on-ice officials and the Toyota Center operations staff to patch the hole using various techniques, it was determined that the playing surface did not meet Western Hockey League standards, forcing the game to be postponed. The decision was reached in cooperation between Americans’ Governor and General Manager Bob Tory, Spokane General Manger Tim Speltz, and WHL Commissioner Ron Robison.

The Western Hockey League is working with both clubs and Toyota Center manager, VenuWorks, to determine a potential date for rescheduling the game. Details of that game will be announced early next week.

“It’s an unfortunate situation that has caused us to cancel tonight’s game,” said WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. “But, given the situation, we had no choice.”

All fans that purchased tickets for the December 31 game, including those that purchased ‘standing room only’ tickets, will be able to utilize those tickets for the make-up game. Additional ticket information will be available once the make-up game date has been announced.

With regards to tonight’s 50/50 raffle drawing, a lucky number was selected and announced. If you held ticket number 827239, please contact the Tri-City Hockey Booster Club at becki@kengaub.com for information on how you can claim your prize.

With regards to tonight’s Ranch & Home Chuck-A-Puck promotion, fans that purchased a Chuck-A-Puck can return their puck to the Americans’ office and will be refunded their money starting on Monday, January 3 at 9:00 a.m.

On behalf of the Tri-City Americans, Spokane Chiefs and VenuWorks, we apologize for the severe inconvenience that was caused by the cancellation and we appreciate everyone’s understanding and support in this matter.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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