FTB - First and Last Impressions

I really, really enjoy movies. I love going to the theatres, plonking down $25 for a ticket, some popcorn, and a large pop and suspending belief for a couple of hours. Come to think of it that might explain why I cheer for the Leafs. Sadly, this weekend one of the best actors ever passed away. I wasn't a Newman-phile per se but I can watch The Sting at the drop of the hat and I will never forget the first time that I watched Slap Shot. Denis Lemieux, Ned Braden, and the Hanson Brothers are all great characters but Reggie Dunlop makes the movie. Here are some reflections on his passing:

• Mike W remembers one of the classic lines of the movie.
• Wyshynski! laments our current dearth of Reggie Dunlops.
• Eric McErlain catches us up on what Dunlop had been up to since the Charlestown Chiefs folded./

After the first half of the preseason schedule Leaf fans have started to make some preliminary observations based on the first impressions of so many new players:

• The Meatriarchy (his tagline is bang on), among other observations, is not so sure about the newest Soviet Satellites.
• Gus wonders if Leafers will be able to hold on to their newfound faith in the patient rebuild if the team keeps up its current pace.
• Steve and Michael think that we are starting to see this season's team shape up.
• Godd takes a look at the initial returns in the new season and comes to a startling conclusion about a few local writers.
• Do your best to not alternate between loud laughter and panicked thoughts of injuries when you read this breaking story./