The public is welcome at a book signing for Minnesota North Stars: History And Memories With Lou Nanne from 4 to 7 p.m. October 1 at Barnes & Noble, 801 Nicollet Mall. Nanne and local author Bob Showers collaborated on the book that is a celebration of the Minnesota North Stars’ 40th anniversary. Showers, who once worked in sales for the North Stars, said writing the book has “been a dream” and that many former North Stars players are expected to attend the kickoff book signing. Legendary North Stars broadcaster Al Shaver, who wrote the foreword, will also be at the event. The North Stars, who moved to Dallas in 1993, came into existence as an NHL expansion franchise and played their first season in 1967.
The Vikings want a win in Kansas City on Sunday to improve their record to 2-1 before Green Bay comes to Minneapolis on September 30. The Chiefs, 0-2, play in San Diego on September 30 for their third road game in four starts. Viking coach Brad Childress acknowledged that Arrowhead Stadium is a difficult place to play and game day temps may be in the upper 80’s (warmer at field level). The Chiefs have an NFL best 102-34 (.750) record at Arrowhead since 1990.
Coach Tim Brewster said that despite the Gophers’ 1-2 record, recruits remain receptive and he’s optimistic about success.
A local source said he doesn’t expect the Big Ten TV Network to finalize its agreements with the various cable companies until this winter. Many Minnesotans and others in the Midwest can’t view Big Ten Conference football games because the network and cable companies have been unable to reach agreements.
The Gopher-Ohio State game in the Metrodome will start at 7 p.m. on September 29 and be televised on ESPN2.
Gopher coach Tubby Smith is impressing people with his basketball teaching.
Twins pitcher Johan Santana recently purchased a home in a Minneapolis suburb.
The MIAC will celebrate its 25th anniversary of women’s athletics during the 2007-2008 academic year. Commemorative events will take place on MIAC campuses. The MIAC website (www.miac-online.org) will have information about past MIAC and NCAA national champions, a timeline of major events, as well as feature stories on individuals. The conference sponsors women’s championships in 11 different sports. The MIAC has had 11 NCAA women’s national team championships and 85 individual student-athletes who have been NCAA champions.