Each year, the beginning of the NHL season is a gift that I eagerly open. Each year brings a new hope that the Philadelphia Flyers will actually win a Cup during my lifetime. The Flyers won back-to-back titles in 1974 and 1975.
I was born in South Jersey in 1976, and the Flyers have not won since that time. I blame myself!
So, as the Flyers get ready to start the season against the hated New York Rangers, I have a new reason to feel beaten up by a team that has caused so much emotional damage for me throughout the years.
Sarah Palin is dropping the puck at the Flyers home opener.
That's right, America's favorite Hockey Mom is dropping the puck to start the Flyers season.
No, really.
Like we need another curse or bad omen.
This could go badly for her. It's the home opener of the Flyers season so the crowd will be absolutely jacked up, not to mention the Philadelphia Phillies will be two games into the NLCS and the Eagles are coming off two straight loses.
Those fans will be locked in.
Nathan Gorenstein of the Inquirer wonders how Philadelphia fans will receive the governor of Alaska: "This is Philly, and we, don't forget, boo Santa Claus. Will the GOP buy up all the seats? Are hockey fans all Reagan Democrats? And are the Flyers taking a risk by doing what appears to be a political endorsement?"
I figure she'll get loud applause, but there is a very real chance of something not going according to script for her. Now that this is out, the sports radio station, 610-WIP, will have two days to have fans chant whatever they want or welcome her however they want.
This is the city that brings you Wing Bowl, where an Korean American contestant was booed as everyone chanted, "USA! USA!" Don't get me wrong, I love the fans there, but this has the chance to become a national story in some ways.
You've been warned.
I will no go beat myself over the head to forget this happened.