RAPTORS AND IHL DISCUSS EXPANSION

     The TORONTO SUN reports that "the Raptors and other
expansion groups were guest of the IHL two weeks ago."  The
meeting took place at The Palace in Auburn Hills, MI, and IHL
spokesman Tim Bryant confirmed there was a Raptors representative
present.  This comes on the heels of yesterday's announcement
that plans for an NBA facility in Toronto were scratched after
Raptors President John Bitove saw the economic viability of
adding a hockey franchise to the facility (Craig Daniels, TORONTO
SUN, 10/13).
     FIREPUCK HITS THE ICE IN MINNESOTA  The Firepuck made its
debut last night during the IHL Atlanta-Minnesota game.  The
puck, with a silver stripe on the outside, yellow reflective
material on the top and bottom and enhanced lighting from the TV,
is meant to make it easier for fans to follow (Tim Harper,
TORONTO STAR, 10/13)