In mundane news, Keith Aucoin's power-play goal makes the difference in the third period: Hershey leads the final 3-1, and the Bears can finish the job Tuesday night at home.

Thanks to the reliable correspondent who pointed out that Steve Stirling has a job in Trent, Italy, next year. Just a little surprised; he seemed ready to take a little time off from the coaching grind and scout. Guess the bug doesn't leave you. EDIT: Hate to disparage something that allows Fun With Babelfish and a messy pun in the header, but the man himself says that's not finalized. So we'll see where he lands. ObFWB: However the Canadian technician has caught up the maximum technical levels between june 2003 and January 2006 when it has been head coach of the New York Islanders, and Stirling has the merit of being be the last trainer to have carried the American exemption in 2006 to the play off of the NHL. In the occasion it was Tampa Bay to eliminate the Islanders in five separated ones. Among his charges would be Jean Desrochers.

Chris Botta says Jack Capuano "is not on the short list at this point" for a promotion to the Big Club.

And congratulations to our old buddy Rich Bocchini, CHL Communications Executive of the Year. We imagine Richie prefers this to the Montgomery Burns Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Excellence*. But we can't be sure.

*-8F23.