Hockey Talk with Alex Formenton and Josh Norris
Ottawa Senators players Alex Formenton, 19, and Josh Norris, 20, showed up to the KiSS Studios this morning (for an interview with our smarter station, 1310News’ ‘Ottawa Today’ with Mark Sutcliffe).
They generously gave me a couple minutes of their time to answer some questions about being drafted, playing at such a competitive level and how it all came to be.
“Keep believing and working hard... chase your dream!”
To read their official NHL bios, click on their names: Josh Norris, #37 centre, and Alex Formenton, #59 left wing.
Watch 'em showcase their skills with a 3 on 3 tournament TOMORROW a the Bell Sensplex starting at 3:10 p.m. Complete details online now at OttawaSenators.com.
What Would Get YOU to a Sens Game?
Brooklyn’s Barclays Center just went public with their desire to end their relationship with the New York Islanders. The Islanders have the third worst attendance this year according to NHL statistics and the arena’s owner says it makes more money off of concerts and other events (they do have an NBA team, too).
At home, our Ottawa Senators rank 10th from the bottom when it comes to attendance which isn’t great. You’ve heard we’re in a “seat slump” from various news outlets and sports bloggers. The National Post has a great article on this topic: “Ottawa Senators could be in trouble if attendance doesn’t rise for big games in January” – CLICK HERE to see what they had to say.
US Embassy Canada
“I’m a big sens fan but [it’s] not worth a month of groceries for one game.”
The big question on Facebook today: What would get YOU out to a Sens game?
Some people voiced their concern with the lack of metal detectors creating longer wait times for entry and confusion at the gates, some didn't like the heavy restrictions placed on smokers while others have changed their sport related routines opting for the RedBlacks or 67s.
Over one hundred comments shared between my personal and professional posts indicated two main causes for a slump in the stands: prices (admission, parking and concessions) and location.
Quick Hits: Gomez, Sheeran & Bieber
Ed Sheeran's new album Divide comes out March 3rd. After releasing two (soon-to-be) hit singles simultaneously with Shape of You and Castle On The Hill he's teasing even more new music.
See this Instagram photo by @teddysphotos * 521.8k likes
I think it's safe to assume we'll be getting some new music from Sheeran on Monday... The only question is: how many songs will he put out this time?
Selena Gomez and The Weeknd in Italy
Gomez, 24, and Tesfaye, 26, were spotted being tourists in Florence on Friday. They took in the sights at the Accademia Gallery Museum, home to Michelangelo's David.
Photo: AKM-GSI
Their relationship has only been "public" for a few weeks now but rumor has it the two had chemistry when they first met at the Victoria's Secret Fashion show back in 2015. Huh... wasn't he in a relationship with model Bella Hadid sometime between then and now?
Yes. For eighteen months.
Multiple sources close to Gomez have said:
“She is friendly with them [Gigi and Bella Hadid], but not friends with them... Selena and Gigi were never fond of each other, so Selena definitely doesn’t have any stipulations about hooking up with, or dating, Bella’s ex.”
Meanwhile, a source close to Bella says she is not over The Weeknd, so this Selena stuff is hitting her hard. She still thinks there is a connection between her and her Starboy ex.
Bieber Shoots & Scores at NHL All Star Game
Justin Bieber did Canada proud at the NHL Celebrity All Star Game honouring Alan Thicke. Thicke's son, Carter, was also in attendance during Saturday's star-studded game at LA's Staples Centre. Robin Thicke was supposed to be there but cancelled last minute due to issues surrounding a family situation/custody battle with ex-wife, Paula Patton.
Bieber took some hits but held his own earning compliments from his Team Gretzky teammates. He managed to get a goal but was beaten by the buzzer.
Other stars that laced up for the event include Cuba Gooding Jr., Jerry Bruckheimer, David Boreanaz, Tim Robbins with performances by Snoop Dogg, Carly Rae Jepsen, Fifth Harmony and Nick Jonas.