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GMs of Stanley Cup Finalists “Duck Up” to the Table 
Burke and Muckler place a waterfowler’s wager on final series outcome
Ottawa, Ont., May 28, 2007—Some might consider them lucky ducks to make it this far in the National Hockey League playoffs, but no one can accuse Anaheim Ducks general manager Brian Burke of ducking an opportunity to promote wetland and waterfowl conservation.
In fact, driven by his deep appreciation for Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) and the work they do for the continent’s waterfowl populations, Burke proposed a friendly wager to John Muckler, his counterpart with the Ottawa Senators.
The stakes?
A fully prepared wild duck dinner for the winning GM as hosted, prepared and cooked by the losing GM.
“This makes perfect sense as a wager,” remarked Burke, a longtime waterfowler. “A first-class wild duck dinner is something that those that have experienced will agree is as fine of a gentleman’s wager as can be had. Besides, everyone knows that the roasting of Senators is best left to the media.”
Muckler, for his part, clearly understood the value to conservation of the wager. However, he left no bones about where his thoughts were.
“The meal is a great idea but getting the ring is the thing,” said Muckler, who already owns five Stanley Cup rings from his time with the Edmonton Oilers.
So while it remains to be seen whether it will be Muckler or Burke donning the apron and eating duck-laced humble pie, one DUC official who calls Ottawa home is clearly rooting for the home team.
“The 1916 Migratory Bird Convention clearly stipulated that waterfowl hunting take place in the fall,” said Barry Turner, DUC’s director of government relations. “But right now in Ottawa, it is open season on Anaheim Ducks.”
The dinner will be held in the off-season at the location of choice of the winner. One thing for certain, DUC will be there to thank all involved.
For more information, contact:
Leigh Patterson
Corporate Media Relations Specialist
Ducks Unlimited Canada
Phone: (204) 467-3306
Email: l_patterson@ducks.ca
Barry Turner
Director of Government Relations
Ducks Unlimited Canada
E-mail:
b_turner@ducks.ca
Office Phone: (613) 565-5294
