Collateral Damage from the NHL Lockout

A few weeks ago, I suggested it's time for hockey fans voice their displeasure over the debacle known as the NHL lockout. Among my suggestions: send angry but polite letters to NHL teams, the league office and the Players' Association; stop wearing NHL sweaters and t-shirts; stop supporting merchants or charities that use NHL players as spokesmen; stop purchasing souvenirs and apparel.

The article prompted a response from one guy who counts on the support of hockey fans to earn his living. Chris Reilly is among the many helpless victims of the lost NHL season.

Chris writes:

I recently read your article pertaining to the NHL lockout. I am totally supportive of your position on the lockout and how each and every NHL Fan should voice their displeasure. Unfortunately, you are a jounalist stuck in tunnel vision and should think of all the innocent people affected by this. I for one cheer both personally and professionally. I own a licensed product store in Newmarket, Ontario, and have operated a successful store for 12 years. Unfortunately, myself and many of my colleagues are breathing by aid of life support. I don't blame you for your article. If I didn't have thousands of dollars tied up in inventory and my life supported to a large degree by the NHL, I would follow your advice. Unfortunately, I am a innocent victim in this labour dispute.

Regards,

Chris Reilly
Pro Image
Upper Canada Mall
Newmarket, Ontario