At surface and rink side the Arctic Burrs might at first seem like any other team, antsy to compete and ready to give a go at HockeyFest. However, the moniker they play under is an unusual bit of Buffalo. The team name "Arctic Burrs" can be traced directly back to the Buffalo Legend, " My Antarctica". The legend, which includes the entire 2007 Buffalo Sabres team, is included in the book "Hockey Legend Myth & Verse", by Artica Burr, and published by Trafford Publishing out of British Columbia.

According to the legend, the upstart Goalie King of Antarctica invites Lindy Ruff and his Buffalo Sabres team on a quest for the Frozen Cup. Fine print in the challenge launches the Sabres, with Martin Biron in net, against the youthful King of Antarctica and his team who employ the names of the Pittsburgh Penguins. A lively contest of wits, pucks and sticks ensues. Shreds of truth, local hockey heroes, and Buffalo ties add hometown interest for youthful hockey players and fans alike.

Our "Arctic Burrs" have had a great time practicing and getting ready for the August 17 th event. They are all ice hockey players from Clarence, Buffalo and Niagara Falls Canada, who cannot resist taking to the street. Hockey forms many lasting friendships. As of last practice our Burrs exhibit the same grit as the penguins in the written tale. The goalie pads speak loud and clear that many a street game has been played out enthusiastically.

Coach, Michael Fusani, provided fresh, creative, enthusiastic coaching despite his ongoing commitments as a Head Coach for a Depew Saints Hockey Team, and as a "D" for the Depew Wildcats. Several of the HockeyFest Arctic Burr team members provided hockey fodder along the way while the book was being written. Youth have quick perception and a good deal to say concerning their love of the game. The donning of the shirts is well deserved. Signed books, shirts, and the author, who enjoys being invited to schools, will be available rink side where the team is playing at HockeyFest.

The author's desire to encourage young hockey fans and players to increase their reading had everything to do with the selection of the publisher. Trafford's connection insures the book is available to both American and Canadian libraries and schools may use their normal purchase channels. The author if invited, makes visits to Buffalo and surrounding middle schools to encourage writing. Information can be found at www.articaburr.com or by calling 716 984 8900. The book may be purchased at www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, many other internet sources, as well as Crossroads Books in Clarence NY, and it may be purchased directly from the author.