BUSINESS COMMUNITY FORMS GROUP TO SUPPORT OTTAWA SENATORS
Silver Sticks will have a permanent presence

In the tenth anniversary year of the modern Ottawa Senators National Hockey League franchise, the Club has announced the formation of the "Silver Sticks", a coalition of local business leaders working to promote the business of and with the Senators.

"The purpose of the Silver Sticks will be to link the Ottawa Senators to its business constituency and, through its vast network of business connections, convey the message that the Senators are a vital element in our communities' prospects for growth and prosperity," said Silver Sticks co-chair and former mayor of Ottawa Jim Durrell, the President of Capital Dodge Chrysler.

"With a name reminiscent of the original Stanley Cup winning team, the Silver Seven, our group represents a broad cross-section of Ottawa and Outaouais businesses," added lawyer David Scott of Borden Ladner Gervais and the group's other co-chair. "The Silver Sticks will create a powerful ally for the Club in its quest to make the Senators a strong, permanent presence in our community."

All key business and industrial segments in the greater Ottawa and Outaouais areas will be represented, including the service industries, a full complement of large and small businesses, real estate, construction and the financial community.

"Business leaders are committed to the idea that a thriving NHL franchise, permanently forged with the larger community, can make the Nation's Capital a more attractive, prosperous and dynamic presence on the North American continent," added Mr. Durrell.

Two key elements of the formation of the Silver Sticks are that it has been formed as a permanent fixture providing a leadership role, and it intends to unite the business community in partnership with the Club to broadcast the message that NHL hockey is good for business and business is good for the Club.

The Silver Sticks initial structure will see a complement of approximately 25 leaders who will rotate over fixed terms so that, over time, a broad base of business men and women will be invited to participate in a unique and dynamic new organization.

"Expect to see and hear from the Silver Sticks on a year-round basis," concluded Mr. Scott. "We will be working for you and for your community by working with the Senators."

SILVER STICKS TEAM