Happy New Year!

The Hat Trick wants to take a moment to wish all my readers a joyous and Happy New Year. May 2009 be a wonderful year for you.

The Hat Trick has taken a bit of a hiatus since the Election Day post...unfortunately the Hat Trick's day job became very hectic and stressful with the election results, post election Senate hysteria (Senate races in Minnesota and Georgia) and just general work-related issues resulting from the continued bad economy.

Unfortunately the Hat Trick also got his pink slip two weeks ago and had his last day today so two things might happen with regard to this blog...either daily, or multi-daily posts as I will have a lot of time on my hands or no posts at all as I work to find new employment. Only the future will tell...

Finally, on a happier note, the Hat Trick is VERY excited for the 2009 NHL Winter Classic featuring the Chicago Blackhawks hosting the Detroit Red Wings at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois (the former second home for Mrs. East Coast Wing during her 20s!). This will be the third year that a regular NHL game will be played outdoors (last year the Pittsburgh Penguins squared off against the Buffalo Sabres in Ralph Wilson Stadium during a snowstorm) and it has been a hit. I'm glad to see two Original Six teams get a chance to participate in this fun and innovative idea from the National Hockey League.

The game starts at 1:00 PM Eastern time so take a break from all of those bowl games and tune in...it should be a great game after the Red Wings pounded the Blackhawks in Detroit last night (December 30)!

Regardless, have a safe and happy New Years Eve and the Hat Trick's best wishes to you all for 2009.