This morning Tim Benz had Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl as a guest on his morning show. Ravenstahl reiterated to Benz that he is in full support of the Isle of the Capri and believes IOC is the best plan for the city. Ravenstahl came out in full support of IOC as a city council member but since he took over for the late Bob O’Connor in September, he hasn’t been as supportive publically. Ravenstahl said he hopes the Isle Of Capri used his endorsement during the Pa Gaming Board hearing last month. One discouraging aspect that came out of the interview is he said the December 20th date of awarding the license can be pushed back but he has stressed to Gaming board how important this deadline is for the city. Ravenstahl also said Plan B is a backup plan but it is viable with no loop holes.

Pittsburgh Post Gazette hockey writer Dave Molinari was a guest on Mark Maddens ESPN1250 radio show this afternoon. Regarding Michel Therrien, Molinari feels Shero seems to be taking a patience approach with the entire organization and unless all of a sudden the Penguins hit rock bottom, he will be very surprised if Therrien is fired. He also stated do not expect a long relationship between Shero and Therrien. Molinari was asked why was Jordan Staal a healthy scratch? He feels he has sputtered as of late and plus his illness played a part in being scratched. Feels Staal has hit a wall and if that doesn’t change soon , he’ll be sent back juniors. As for Noah Welch, he states, the decision was tied into Shero’s philosophy of patience and feels he can develop better being a #1 in Wilkes Barre.