I really, really enjoy movies. I love going to the theatres, plonking down $25 for a ticket, some popcorn, and a large pop and suspending belief for a couple of hours. Come to think of it that might explain why I cheer for the Leafs. Sadly, this weekend one of the best actors ever passed away. I wasn't a Newman-phile per se but I can watch The Sting at the drop of the hat and I will never forget the first time that I watched Slap Shot. Denis Lemieux, Ned Braden, and the Hanson Brothers are all great characters but Reggie Dunlop makes the movie. Here are some reflections on his passing:

• Mike W remembers one of the classic lines of the movie.
• Wyshynski! laments our current dearth of Reggie Dunlops.
• Eric McErlain catches us up on what Dunlop had been up to since the Charlestown Chiefs folded.

After the first half of the preseason schedule Leaf fans have started to make some preliminary observations based on the first impressions of so many new players:

• The Meatriarchy (his tagline is bang on), among other observations, is not so sure about the newest Soviet Satellites.
• Gus wonders if Leafers will be able to hold on to their newfound faith in the patient rebuild if the team keeps up its current pace.
• Steve and Michael think that we are starting to see this season's team shape up.
• Godd takes a look at the initial returns in the new season and comes to a startling conclusion about a few local writers.
• Do your best to not alternate between loud laughter and panicked thoughts of injuries when you read this breaking story.