A Voz dos Caniacs

Peter Karmanos Jr. Wrote
To the best fans anywhere:
Yesterday the National Hockey League Board of Governors confirmed that a work stoppage would take effect today with the expiration of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NHL and the NHL Players' Association. As a result, Commissioner Gary Bettman announced that the opening of training camp and the start of the 2004-05 NHL regular season will be delayed.
The Board of Governors unanimously voted to lend our full support to Commissioner Bettman's efforts to work to reach an agreement with the NHLPA. We have confidence that he will ultimately provide a solution that is in the very best interest of the game.
I realize this is frustrating for you. But I am confident that the NHL will reach an agreement with the Players' Association that is not only fair to both the teams and the players, but more importantly, one that serves the long-term interests of our game and our loyal fans. The League is absolutely committed to achieving a new agreement that will provide economic stability for all 30 NHL franchises in their current markets, maximum value for your entertainment dollar and a confidence that the Hurricanes can be as comperecognize that our fans, partners and supporters throughout the Triangle and beyond are the most important assets we have. We will do our best to communicate with you and make every effort to keep you informed during this process. As a reminder, the NHL provides up-to-date information about the status of the Collective Bargaining negotiations on a special website, http://www.nhlcbanews.com. If you haven't already, you should check it out.
I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this necessary action will cause our fans and business partners. We remain steadfast that in time the right agreement will be reached, and our team will take the ice once again to thrill our Caniacs!
Thank you again for your tremendous support.
Sincerely,
Peter Karmanos Jr.titive, each season, as any other team.

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Gary Bettman Wrote

September 15, 2004Dear Hockey Fans:The National Hockey League enjoys and appreciates the support of the greatest fans in the world. We acknowledge that by not starting the 2004-05 season as scheduled due to the lack of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement, we are disappointing this loyal and passionate group –- and for that, we sincerely apologize.This is a situation that we hoped would not occur and, in fact, have been working very hard to avoid. I want you to know that I am committed to fixing the problems that face our League and to delivering an economic system that will bring you exciting, world-class NHL hockey at ticket prices you can afford.The CBA that just expired made it very difficult for most teams to be competitive, both economically and on the ice, as approximately 75% of all the dollars generated went to player salaries and benefits –- by far the highest such percentage in all of professional sports. Our objective is to negotiate a CBA that will provide a partnership with our players, will provide them with more than 50% of every dollar of revenue, including an average salary of $1.3 million (U.S.) and will assure a stable business while giving your team the opportunity to compete for the Stanley Cup every season.Our mandate at the League is to do everything possible to reflect our respect for your connection to NHL hockey and the commitment you make to your favorite Club. We thank you for your continued support and understanding. While there is no way to know how long it will take to conclude this negotiation, we sincerely hope your team will be back in action soon.