Rink

T he saying goes, "all good things must come to an end." Maybe that doesn't apply to this column, but for the dedicated Knife Nation readers over the past 18 months, this column is… done. If you jumped to the last page before you perused the pre- ceding pages of NARCE 2011 wrap-up and pictures, you might not be aware, but The Knife has officially joined the STAR staff and is hanging up the sarcasm and obnoxious witticisms and turning them in for rainbows, unicorns, and membership development! No longer will man vs. man, man vs. himself, or man vs. Customer with 2-digit IQ plot lines play out on this page. No longer will The Knife rant on your behalf, writing the things that you think to yourself in a darkened room late at night, but had the common sense to not share with others. No longer will The Knife verbally spar with "The Editor" on innuendoes, language, context, or if a word doesn't clear spell check, if it's actually a word. The Knife will however, continue to refer to himself in third person. He will continue to fight the good fight, and he will continue to serve the masses. By the time you're reading this, Mrs. The Knife, Knife Jr., and The Littlest Knife will have completed our journey to Colorado Springs from Michigan. The Knife will have a new e-mail address, something cool I hope; like krack-a- lackin@starrinks.com, and a new busi- ness phone line that has the potential to spell out something that no one had possibly anticipated. Keep your fingers crossed for me! After seeing many of the fine people that have attended NARCE over the past 9 years, and seeing even more new faces at this year's NARCE, I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to join a staff that is so committed and dedicated to the ice arena industry. On that note, it's time for the free and unsolicited advice for The Knife Nation. Come September, elections will be in full swing for the STAR Board of Directors. It's a great way to get involved and to have an impact on our industry. If you're not planning on seeking a term, take the time to read the bios on those that are. Make it a point to vote for a candidate that you feel might represent your interests. It has truly been my pleasure and privilege! Cue the music. The Knife … has… left… the… building… ★ Editor's Note: As a gesture of appreciation to "The Knife" for his tireless work with this publi- cation, we will do as he has asked of us every time he has submitted a column: that being, this final contribution has not been edited in any way, shape, or form for spelling, punctuation, offensive language, politically incorrect opinions, statements or hamburglers. the final cut by Johnny "The Knife" Monteleone STARrinks.com ■ Just livin' the rink life. 54 R INK MAGAZ INE july/August 2011 The Final, Final Cut Stick a knife fork in him. After a fun run, "The Knife" is done. RINK PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

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