Preds' "Skate of the Union" panel to include Matt Lombardi

The Nashville Predators just released an updated schedule for Thursday's "Skate of the Union" activities down at Bridgestone Arena, and their newest addition, center Matthew Lombardi, has been added to the panel discussion which will address questions submitted by fans.

Matthew Lombardi

#15 / Center

Height: 5-11

Weight: 195

Born: Mar 18, 1982

Follow after the jump for the schedule of events and further details...

Here's the release from the team:

Fans in search of a mid-summer hockey fix need look no further than the Nashville Predators annual Skate of the Union event, held this Thursday, July 8 from 4-8 p.m. at Bridgestone Arena.

This free event will feature a "Skate of the Union" address on the present and future of the Nashville Predators by President of Hockey Operations David Poile, President of Business Operations Ed Lang, Head Coach Barry Trotz, and Chairman Tom Cigarran. Also included in the panel will be recent free agency signee Matthew Lombardi. The address will highlight the Predators 2010 draft picks, NHL free agency signings and an overview of the 2010-11 team and season schedule. The panel will speak with fans, answer questions and address issues on everything from hockey operations to business initiatives. The panel will be hosted by Nashville Predators Play-by-Play Announcer Pete Weber and fans may submit questions for the panel upon entering Bridgestone Arena.

The event boasts autograph opportunities with Predators forward Joel Ward, defenseman Ryan Parent and recent Predators first-round draft picks. A photo opportunity will be available with Predators prospect and Brentwood, Tenn. native Blake Geoffrion along with his 2010 Hobey Baker Award - given to the top National Collegiate Athletic Association men's ice hockey player.

The event also features a used-equipment sale, where fans will have the opportunity to purchase game and practice-worn equipment, as well as opportunities to purchase season tickets. Fans will be treated with free popcorn and sodas courtesy of DNC Sportservice. The Nashville Predators pro shop will also be open.

Schedule of Activities

4 p.m.	Doors Open
	Used Equipment Sale Begins
4:30 - 5:30 p.m.	Autograph Session with Joel Ward and Ryan Parent
6 p.m.	Skate of the Union Panel Discussion
	Used Equipment Sale Ends
7 p.m.	Autograph Session with recent Predators First Round Draft Picks
	Free Fan Photos with Blake Geoffrion and the Hobey Baker Award
8 p.m.	Event Ends

*Players subject to change without notice.

I highly recommend any and all Preds fans attend, it's a great chance to get your midsummer hockey fix in, and the used equipment sale is always popular. One note that I have heard often is that due to the flood earlier this year, there will not be quite as much equipment as usual this time around.