Betting Besides the Bowl

Super Bowl XL is, of course, the talk of the town, but sports bettors have other events on which to wager leading up to the big day.

Basketball, college and pro, and golf are among the biggies, but the horses and buggies are in action -- or soon will be -- too.

Thoroughbred racing already has kicked off its run to the Triple Crown, but the 3-year-old campaign will share the spotlight this weekend with a fairly new offering called the Sunshine Millions, a $3.6 million eight-race card that's designed for Florida and California-breds and alternates events between Gulfstream and Santa Anita Parks.

Run for the Roses devotees will have the opportunity to wager on the first of three Kentucky Derby pools, being offered earlier than usual this year.

Two others will coincide with big races in March and April.

The key for those who participate in Derby pools is to pick the right one on which to wager, as odds fluctuate and horses move in and out of the picture.

Pools list odds, made by Churchill Downs handicapper Mike Battaglia, on 23 horses, plus a field bet that encompasses all other 3-year-olds.

Juvenile champion Stevie Wonderboy opened as the 8/1 choice, followed by Brother Derek, the horse that beat him in the San Rafael Stakes earlier this month, and First Samurai -- son of Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus -- at 10/1.

Other odds and horses are:

15/1 -- Dr. Decherd, Private Vow, Your Tent or Mine.

20/1 -- Bluegrass Cat, AP Warrior, Bob and John, Henny Hughes, Lawyer Ron, Itsallaboutthechase, High Cotton, Barbaro, Halfhours, Cause to Believe.

30/1 -- Barbican, Achilles of Troy, Point Determined, Sorcerers Stone, Flashy Bull, Blazing Rate, Keyed Entry.

The field is 4/1.

Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Hilton has posted odds on 214 Derby potentials.

Many of the Thoroughbreds in the initial Derby pool have higher numbers than those available in the Churchill Downs pool.

Stevie Wonderboy is 12/1, for example, while First Samurai is 25/1 and Henny Hughes is 40/1.

*****

Auto racing has become a big-time sport in the last half-dozen years or so, but NASCAR still has some major throwbacks to the 20th Century.

Love him or hate him driver Jeff Gordon won his first two Daytona 500s in the 1990s, added his third last year and is Las Vegas oddsmakers' choice to hit victory lane again in 2006 at the 2 1/2-mile oval.

Sam's Town, host for NASCAR's annual Las Vegas stop, has Gordon listed at 4/1 while the Las Vegas Hilton has him at 9/2 along with Tony Stewart, the 2005 Nextel Cup Champion.

Dale Earnhardt Jr., scion of a prominent racing family, is 5/1 at both bet shops.

"Looking at his record from last year, I don't see how," mused Stratophere Race and Sports Director Robert Jaynes.

Sam's Town has Stewart, who recently was involved in a minor mishap with his car, and Jimmie Johnson, the defending Las Vegas champion, at 7/1.

"Personally, I like Greg Biffle at 12/1," said Jack Snyder, the assistant race and sports book manager at Sam's Town.

Biffle, a multople winner in 2005, was 25/1 at the Hilton.

Snyder expects Daytona wagering to step up once Super Bowl crowds hit Vegas.

"We've had smaller wagers, but nothing big yet," he said.

"My question is, "Whatever happened to Dale Jarrett?' We have him out there at 40/1. I guess age really catches up to you."

Jarrett is 30/1 at the Hilton, where racing numbers are made by NASCAR enthusiast/expert Ed Salmons.

The Hilton lists Gordon. Dtewart, Biffle, Johnson and Carl Edwards as 6/1 co-favorites to nab the 2006 Nextel Cup.

Hometown favorites Kurt and Kyle Busch of Las Vegas, are 15/1 and 25/1 respectively.

Lynda Collins is a documented member of the Professional Handicappers League. Read all of her articles at [http://www.procappers.com/Lynda_Collins.htm]

Why You Should be a Non - Stop Learning Machine

Webster's defines learning as "To gain knowledge comprehension or mastery through experience or study."
I have a question that I would like you to consider. The answer has to be very honest. How many books have you read in the last month? The last three months? The last year? To show you that I practice what I preach - I can tell you that I read four books per month, twelve books a quarter and about 48 to 50 books a year. It may not seem like much but in a twenty-year period that is over 800 books! Here is the point- some of that knowledge has to sink into my brain.
Unfortunately, many people in our society once they have graduated from high school or college just quit learning. They say to themselves "no more homework" and "I never have to read another book again!" They are done. Interestingly, commencement doesn't mean "finished" it means "to start." At some point these people get stagnant and eventually may lose motivation. Why? They aren't staying fresh and giving the brain of theirs the old workout.

What is a Learner?

What is a learner? To me a learner is someone who has an incredible thirst for knowledge. I think that learners can be identified by the following activities and characteristics:
oThey read books As a continuous learner, you must read constantly. I have a rule that I have made for myself. During the year I only read books which are non-fiction, mainly "how to" books and books on motivation and success. When I am on vacation or during time off and holidays, I read fictional novels and enjoy the "mind candy" they provide. As a suggestion, you may want to set up a plan for your reading. Decide on how many books you are going to read every month and mark them in your planner. At the end of each month take out the planner (or P.D.A.) and check your progress. Part of your plan should also be to decide on a reading strategy. Decide what areas you need to improve in and then create a list of books that could possibly help in those areas. If you don't know of any books on that topic, go to Amazon.com and do a search, or search the computer at your local library by topic.

oThey ask others Ask other people that you know and respect about what books they are reading or have read that have had an impact on them. Write down their suggestion and head to your nearest local bookstore.

One of the barriers to reading a large amount of books, is the fact that they are just so darned expensive. There are some creative ways around that:
oBudget for it I am sure that you budget for other items- it would be reasonable to budget for your own self improvement.

oGet a library card Most towns have a local library where books can be checked out, for little or no cost. You will then have the ability to check out books by the dozen.
oWatch for sales My local "big chain" bookstore has a whole "bargain book area", where books can be bought for amazingly low prices.

oFind your local used book store Most communities have a local used book store, In my area there are two great used book stores and I can buy 5-6 books for the price of one new hardcover. One other bonus these stores have, character that the big book chain store can't create.

oFlea Markets and Thrift Shops I have found many great titles for my library at Flea Markets and thrift shops. I have bought many classic books for ridiculously low prices.

oBuying Online There are several great web sites where you can buy books. Sites like Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com are easy to use and the best feature are their search capabilities. You can search for books by subject, title and author. Lastly the prices are fairly competitive and shipping is fairly quick.

We have determined that learners read, but there are other activities that learners embrace on a regular basis:

o They Search the Net You can use the Internet as a source of information and research. By using many of the search engines and meta-search engines, you can locate tons of valuable information on the net. The Net is an amazing mix of websites, research, magazine articles, and commercial services that you can subscribe to for a fee. The only frustration that I have found with the Net, is knowing exactly where to find the information. Because of the overwhelming amount of information, it makes sense to learn how to search the web as efficiently as possible. There are many great books on the market, which teach you Internet search strategies. For example the way a topic is entered on a search engine can change the results. The topic with quotation marks around it can change the results from the search, with no quotation marks. The rules are different with each search engine. Crazy isn't it?
oAsk Questions I want you to think of A.S.K. Ask So you will Know. When a subject comes up and you don't understand something, ask! I have worked with many people in the world who will not ask a question and will pretend that they know. The only way that you can get smarter is by seeking out information, which you do not understand. Seek out S.M.E.'s (subject matter experts) and tap into their expertise. My uncle, Scott Camp is the consummate "asker." He is always asking questions. We don't see each other often, but when we do he wants to know what is going on in my life and work. When I tell him about my work and life, he then asks tons of questions. He is a human sponge who soaks up information at a rapid rate, and he is very smart. Why? Because he is a non-stop continuous learning machine. He understands that the more questions he asks, the more he will learn.

oRead Periodicals and Magazines Continuous learners subscribe to and read many different magazines every month, on many diverse topics. I highly recommend reading the magazines of your industry, magazines about business and magazines that are about success and motivation. I also would encourage you to read magazines that relate to topics that are hobbies, or you are passionate about. You should be reading about what cutting edge companies are doing and what leading thinkers are thinking about. Reading about other people's success stories is very uplifting and motivating because when you read about people like you who have accomplished amazing things, it confirms the belief that anything is possible. You will read it and then say to yourself, "If they can do that why can't I?"

oWatch Videos/CD ROM's I don't think there are many topics available that don't have CD/ROM's, that can help you learn about a topic or even gain new skills. For example if you want to learn how to type or even how to type faster, there are many computer programs and CD/ROM's that are on the market. These programs work well because they allow you to practice and even give you feedback. I hear people say at times "well I couldn't do that I don't know how to ..." well come on wake up world! If you don't know LEARN NOW. You cannot allow the limitations of the knowledge you have now to stand in your way.

oListen to tapes Every year in our country, people drive thousands of miles, literally hundreds of hours and they listen to the radio. I have a question. How much will you learn by listening to one hundred hours of your favorite radio "shock jock"? I would say not much. I also think radio won't help you get motivated, or stay motivated because radio can be the opposite; negative, mean spirited, and depressing. The old garbage in, garbage out, formula applies. As much as your local morning DJ is entertaining, in my opinion you are wasting precious learning time. Decide what topics you want to learn about and find audiotapes on that topic. Some people have referred to their cars as their "rolling classroom." There are many different types of audiotapes. There are "how to" audios, motivational titles featuring well known speakers and biographies, just to name a few categories. Maximize your time by taking advantage of your driving time.

oSeminars There are many great companies that travel around the country. They conduct one, two, and three day seminars. Keep an eye out for these seminars as they are offered publicly. The seminars are generally high quality and reasonable in price.

oTraining Programs Many corporations and organizations offer training programs as part of employee development. If your company offers training, sign up for as many courses as you can. In general these programs are well developed, tested and are conducted by training professionals. Take advantage of these great programs.

oEmployee Education Assistance Many corporations also offer educational benefits for employees. These programs often offer reimbursement for educational courses and often will pay for a percentage up to 100%. Find out if your employer offers this benefit.

oCommunity Schools There are many schools in various communities that offer many non degree classes. They have a great variety of classes in many subjects. Find out what is offered in your town and find out how to enroll. The other advantage of these kinds of programs, is that they are often very inexpensive.

Why You Should Keep Learning

The bottom line is that the world is going through rapid change and you should be willing to reinvent yourself every year. Because the world will not stay the same, you can't stay the same.
Let's take the example of Warren Sapp, a defensive lineman for the world champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In the 2002 season, Warren Sapp was the sharpest that he had ever been and helped take his team to the playoffs. The year before Warren had had a bad season, he was trying to figure out why. He studied tapes in the off season and made a determination, that he had gotten "fat and lazy" (his words) and apathetic. He decided that he had to get better. In the off season he dieted, worked out, lost weight, and was in the best shape of his life. If a Pro Bowl quality level player is willing to reinvent himself each year, shouldn't you?
Every year you have to be a better, faster, smarter version of yourself. Just like new computer software, every year you have to upgrade to a better version of you. You have to be a You 1.0, and then a You 2.0 and then a You 3.0. be willing to upgrade!

Remember if you are not growing you are slowing!

Shawn Doyle is the President of New Light Learning and Development (www.newlightlearning.com) a company specializing in Leadership Development. He has also authored five books on leadership sales and motivation. His latest book The Manager’s Pocket Guide to Training has just been published by HRD Press. Sldoyle1@aol.com

How to Fine Dine Like a Pro

For many people, myself included, dining at an upscale restaurant is something reserved for special occasions or celebrations: anniversaries, birthdays, Valentine's Day, or even a wedding proposal. As such, we may find ourselves a bit rusty on proper dining etiquette. The following tips will help you ensure your fine dining plans go smoothly.

Reservations

Many fine dining establishments, if not most, require a reservation. How far in advance largely depends on the popularity of the restaurant and the time of year you will be going. Do not wait until two days before Valentine's Day to reserve a spot for you and your sweetheart at the city's finest restaurant. Fine dining establishments in some larger cities like New York, may be booked weeks--even months in advance. When it comes to upscale dining, planning is key.

Dress Code

While making your reservation, be sure to ask if the restaurant has a dress code. Some restaurants still require gentlemen to wear sports jackets and/or ties. With the frequent changes in fashion, however, even some of the most upscale restaurants have relaxed their dress codes.

Napkins

Upon arrival and once seated, it is customary to place your napkin in your lap. If your napkin is a large one, you can fold it in half as you lay it across your lap. When excusing yourself from the table for a moment and once the meal is over, simply fold your napkin loosely and place it either to the left or right of your plate.

Utensils and Place Settings

Don't let the silverware and drinking glass arsenal intimidate you. Most fine dining establishments serve more than one course. The selection can vary by restaurant, but typically you can expect to see something like soup, bread, salad, your main entree, and a dessert. This assortment of food requires more silverware, plates, and glasses than your typical casual dining setting.

In general, where silverware is concerned, you will work from the outside inward as each new course is brought to the table. As you finish each course, leave the silverware neatly on your dish. Used silverware should never be laid back on the tablecloth. Your wait staff will remove your utensil and serving dish when you finish that course.

Other Pointers

• Pass food from the left to the right.


• If someone asks you to pass salt or pepper, pass them both together and place them on the table within reach of the person. Do not pass them hand-to-hand.


• Butters and dips should be transferred from the serving dish to your own plate before you spread them onto your food.


• Bread should not be cut with a knife; it should be broken instead.


• When eating soup, dip the soupspoon into the bowl at the edge closest to you and move it away from you into the center. To avoid spilling the soup in your spoon, fill it only 2/3 full. Sip from the edge of your spoon. Don't slurp. When finishing the soup you may tip the bowl slightly away from you to scoop up the remainder.


• When cutting meat or fish, only cut two bites at a time.


• If eating something difficult to pierce, like peas, you can use a piece of bread or your knife to help push the items onto your fork, but do not use your fingers.

By planning ahead, following good manners, and keeping the above pointers in mind, you will enjoy a more relaxed and memorable fine dining experience.

Jason Collmorgen operates a guide to Eureka Springs, AR providing information on Eureka Springs, Arkansas restaurants [http://www.dineeurekasprings.com/restaurants] For more information visit: DineEurekaSprings.com

Copyright 2008 all rights reserved. You are free to republish this article as long as the author information and hyperlinks remain intact and active.

Elementary Football Team Routines

Basics to football hand offs

Handoff skills can secure yardage on the field and increase your overall success. Let's look at a simple hand off between a quarterback and a running back to point out the fundamentals of this skill. The running back starts the hand off running towards the quarterback with his arms open creating a pocket for the quarterback to slide the football right into the running back's chest. Once the quarterback has placed the ball in the pocket, or opening, the running back immediately clamps down on the ball protecting it and holding on to it. As the running back leaves from the handoff he needs to stay low to react quickly and again to protect the ball.

Catching the ball low

Good receivers and even running backs know how to make the great plays. This means that quarterbacks, running backs, receivers, etc have gone through the motions several times and know how to react to situations on the field. One situation that happens a lot in a game is catching the low passes. Here are some secrets to making this catch. First keep the pinkies together down low to make a shovel. This ensures that the ball will not slip through your fingers. Locking your pinkies prevents the football from falling through your hands. Second, bend your knees and get low. Remember, the cardinal rule of catching is to use your hands and not your body. Always watch the ball through from the first time you see it in the air until it is in a secure ball carrying position. And always see the ball through, meaning that you are watching it into the tuck.

Water on and off the field

Dehydration should never appear on the football field if both the players and coaches have good habits. Every player should have a water bottle close so that they can take quick water breaks or at least a swallow here and there. Water should never be used as a motivational or reward type basis. These safe practices will help keep players energized and healthy.

Building your muscles and endurance through Weightlifting

No practice regime would be complete without lifting weights. The benefits of lifting weights are found in added strength, but more importantly it will increase your maximum power. Maximum power differs in importance to strength due to the fact that it is exertion during play and not just muscle mass. It is the quickness and exertion that will enable a football player to accomplish their plays with skill on the field. As you continue in your weightlifting program, we highly recommend that you get a personal coach to push you in your goals, teach you proper techniques, and ensure that you are doing the right work for your position.

Looking for Official New York Giants Gear. Giants Pro Shop.com is the official online store for the New York Giants. You will find Giants Jackets [http://www.giantsproshop.com/index.cfm/New_York_Giants_Ultra_Fan_Full-Zip_Pleather_Jacket/Ultra_Fan_Full-Zip_Pleather_Jacket/prd/Ultra-Fan-Full-Zip-Pleather-Jacket/item/31974], collectibles and gear. Its products include jerseys, authentic Giants Hats, Apparel, and More! Even players Jerseys like the Eli Manning Jersey.

A Bowling Alley Can Be A Great Bonding Place For Families

When it comes to a sport that provides lots of family fun, few can match a quick trip to a local bowling alley. Although it might take years to reach "pro" status, almost anyone of any age can play this game. The game can be altered for young children and it is one even teens tend to enjoy, as well.

There are plenty of reasons why a family trip to a bowling alley can be a great idea. They include:

* Bonding. If the idea is to find an activity everyone can enjoy and do together, this beats the television hands down. A quick game at a local bowling alley provides plenty of opportunity for family time that happens to equal fun time, too. Unlike watching television or movies, this particular activity provides lots of opportunity for talking, bonding and respect building.

* Affordable. Bowling is one of those sports that can be very cost effective. Those on a budget can take advantage of lower-priced day trips and rentals of balls and shoes. Families that really get into the action can splurge and buy their own equipment. This can really be a shoestring operation if a family wants or needs it to be.

* Weather isn't a concern. Some other family sports might require ideal weather conditions to enjoy. Rainy days, snowy days and even really, really hot days have no impact on this family activity.

* Self-esteem building. Bowling can actually be a pretty big self-esteem builder. As children and families get better at the game, the improvements will be evident. As long as parents don't put too much pressure on the score and work to make a trip to the bowling alley fun, the confidence booster can be fantastic. It also provides parents an opportunity to teach youngsters to be good sports.

Going to the bowling alley with young children might take a little patience, but there are some things parents can do to help ensure the venture is a great one. These include:

* Exercise patience. Whether it's teenagers or younger children going to the bowling alley, it is very important to remember the game is just that. Children will likely need some good instruction and they might not be all that great starting out. Remember, you are all there to have fun, not bowl a perfect 300.

* Make it a personal competition. Rather than make it a game against each other, try bowling to beat your own personal scores. This can help give kids the leeway they need to learn and take the pressure off.

* Pick the right equipment. Make sure the shoes fit right and the balls aren't too heavy or too light. If these things are in place, the game is a whole lot more fun. Consider using gutter bumpers for really small bowlers. Don't forget to forego them as soon as they are ready. This in itself can be a great confidence builder.

A trip to a bowling alley can provide all the right ingredients for a great family outing. Generally quite affordable and typically very enjoyable, this particular sport is one that can be enjoyed by almost anyone.

Get all the latest in bowling know how from the one and only true source at http://www.bowlingquestions.com Be sure to check our our bowling alley page.

Bowling for Bucks! How to Improve Your Bowling Skills and Make it to the Pros

Several years ago I was counseling a professional bowler who was having a tough time with his game and needing to get back on track. Having heard about me from a friend, he agreed to come in for some hypno-therapy sessions.

After discussing his personal traits, angers, fears, and other details surrounding his slump, I wrote a session designed specifically for him. The words that I used were precisely to help him overcome some bad habits in his form, his anxiety about poor performance, his fears surrounding getting older, and his feeling of weakening after the second game.

He taught me alot about what "perfect form" meant. We discussed in detail all of the errors bowlers generally make regarding their choices of where to stand, how to set up, changing balls, taking too long or too short to begin their approach, the number of perfect steps and footing before release, poor hand release form and improperly swinging their arm during the backswing. He told me that he could usually perform well without much preparation, but for some unknown reason he was twisting his arm and hand just before release. He told me in detail about many of his 300 games, the perfect score for a bowler. He was passionate about the sport he had been playing since he was a child. Now in his 60s and still part of the tour it was tough to compete with the younger stronger players and he lost his confidence.

We went over his entire set-up, how he wanted to look, how he wanted to feel, what the ball should look like, what he mentally needed in order to be perfect. He gave details about the lanes, if they were oiled or dry, wood or laminate, and comments that were pertinent to his successful performance.

I explained what he should expect from hypno-therapy. I would first put him into a relaxed state of being and his mind would begin to calm from the stresses of the day. He would listen to the sound of my voice and that alone. Deep inhalations and exhalations to slow his breathing began. He learned what tension in his muscles felt like. He became aware of his own heart rate and breathing, whether he was breathing from his chest or his diaphragm. He tightened every muscle in his body so that he completely understood the complete opposite, or the feeling of physical relaxation.

We then began his personalized program. "Continue with your deep breathing. Fix your eyes of a spot across the room." He chose to focus on a butterfly in one of my pictures on the wall. He breathed in the essence of the butterfly and breathed out all tension first from his mind, then from each part of his body. As he inhaled he chose to breathe in the freedom of the butterfly.

As we continued, the muscles of his face relaxed and I noticed him cooperating more and more with each phrase. "Now concentrate only on the freedom of the butterfly. The butterfly has the ability to fly above of all of the earthly problems you are experiencing. It doesn't have to think about HOW to fly, it just flies easily and smoothly over all obstacles." He gently smiled as he continued to relax more and more deeply.

I brought him back to a time in his life when he performed perfectly, when he bowled a 300 game that he remembered in detail. Leading him into a deeper state of relaxation, he was completely relaxed and immersed in a true state of hypnosis. Then each detail became more and more important as he was absorbing both in mental imagery and by memory and post hypnotic suggestion each word that I was saying.

As I got to the negative habit he had somehow acquired, I repeated the following words over and over again to strongly imprint his mind and reset his technique:

"I am completely relaxed and confident each time I step into a bowling alley. I love to bowl and I am the very best bowler in the country. Each time I take out my bowling balls I know exactly which ball is best for the lane I am going to play. It doesn't matter if the lanes are oily or dry, I have exactly what I need to play a perfect game each time. My form is perfect, my clothing feels comfortable, my shoes feel comfortable, the crowd supports me, my mind plays this tape over and over again as soon as I walk into a bowling alley. My only option is success. I remain strong and energized during and after each game I play. I can easily play ten games and feel great.

My form is perfect. My fingers fit easily and comfortably into the holes in my bowling balls. My hand and the the ball are a perfect fit. I love the feeling of holding my bowling ball, almost as much as I love to watch it roll perfectly down the aisle to the sweet spot, the pocket. The pins always cooperate as my ball comes towards them. I see the strike before my ball reaches the pins. My arm and hand remain perfectly straight in my backswing. I swing effortlessly back and follow through as my hand passes my ear my eyes remain fixed on the pocket. I hit the pocket every time I roll the ball down the alley. As soon as I set up I focus only on the pocket and my mind sees the strike happen before the ball leaves my hand. I am mentally ready, mentally strong, nothing distracts me.

As soon as I pick up my ball, I set my feet in the same spot each time. Two boards from the first dot on the right. As I look at the pins, I focus only on the pocket, no other pins exist. As I set my ball down quietly it rolls down the aisle with a memory of where to hook. The ball has a memory imprint from my hands and it knows exactly what to do. All I have to do is lay it down in the same spot. I easily hit the same spot every time, because my hand, my arm, my shoulder and my release are perfect in delivery. My muscles lock into place, straight on the back swing and the perfect and powerful release. Over and over again, one strike after the next. As simple as walking.... I love the feeling of winning. I feel happy. I am confident. I am a winner. I bowl a perfect game easily!"

After a one hour session of repeating this paragraph over and over and over again, I had apparently programmed myself unknowingly. The next evening I was participating for fun in a Pro-Am tournament at our local bowling alley. The gentleman who I was working with was also participating. Although my average was just 150, I was the surprise of the entire tournament!

Without thinking, I picked up my 12 pound ball confidently with a new relaxed sense about the game. Even my practice balls were strikes. The teams were chosen at random. Each team had one pro bowler. Mine was smiling widely as I continued throwing one strike after the next. The tournament ended with me rolling the very best games of my career; a high game of 260! My other games that night were 190 and 210, both far beyond my regular average. It was a thrill of a lifetime! Only the pro bowler and I realized what had happened and we had a good laugh about it later. He asked that I not turn pro!

If you are interested in improving your performance in any sport, or competition of any kind, you might want to research hypno-therapy and other forms of mental retainment. It could be very worth your while! This is certainly proof that success is first a THOUGHT. If you think you will...you will. If you think you can't...you won't. Here's to your next success!

Janet Angel is a sought-after wellness expert with advanced degrees in nutritional biochemistry and psychology. She believes that everyone needs to educate themselves on the wellness opportunities available around the world. Dr. Angel has counseled many prominent citizens across the United States and has participated in several international research programs surrounding health. She has been a guest on many radio programs, is a public speaker, author and seminar leader. Dr. Angel believes that the body has the innate ability to heal itself in most circumstances, given the right environment, the right elements and the opportunity. For further information on her drive to help others reach their fullest potential, please go to http://www.Totallywell.com For financial wellness ideas go to http://www.LinkToCashNow.com

How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets Like A Pro

Painting your kitchens cabinets is very simple and affordable. The great part is that your kitchen will look completely changed without having to remodel. You do not have to be a professional to paint. Anyone can do it. There are things you should know beforehand, though. Such as, some cabinets can not even be painted.

Three common tools that you can use when painting are:

• brush


• spray gun


• roller

It is your preference on what would work best for you. Brushes can leave marks on larger areas. Spray guns are expensive and can overspray so you will need an area to enclose it. Possibly the best option is using a roller. It is the quickest and least expensive choice. It can cover areas with a single stroke.

Before you begin painting you will want to remove all hardware which includes knobs, hinges, and pulls. Taking the doors off the cabinets will make painting much easier. Remember to label each door so they will be easy to put back once it has dried. Cleaning the cabinets is important to assure the paint coat will look its best.

When painting the face frames it may drip, so covering the counter tops and whatever other items might get splattered is a good idea. After completing the frames, start on the doors and drawers. Start with the door insides. Once those are drying, do the drawer fronts. Have a pattern and paint that way until they are all completed. You may need to do other coats depending out what type of paint you used.

Once every item is dry you should look over them in the light to make sure you have not missed a spot. If everything is perfect, they are ready to be carefully installed. Do not forget to add the pulls or knobs. Another easy and quick cabinet makeover is by changing the knobs. Update them to match the design you are going for. When doing so you will begin to see your kitchen transforms its style and appearance.

Painted cabinets do not have to end with one color. You can experiment with different finishes such as crackle, and splatter. Stencils are also a unique addition and a fun project. After your work is done, you will be able to enjoy your new kitchen.

Deciding to paint your kitchen cabinets could be one of the best decisions you can make when it comes to your home. It can benefit your homes value and change your overall mood. Imagine cooking a meal while having bright colored cabinets around you. It will make you feel lively and in a fantastic mood. You will also feel great knowing your hard work of painting them has paid off.

For more information on the benefits of using an design your dream kitchen on line by visiting http://www.remodelingkitchenguide.com, a popular website that offers kitchen remodeling tips, resources and on Virgina kitchen remodeling mistakes to avoid.

In the NFL, Pick on Defense and Quarterbacks

We all love to be on the NFL... that's why we're here. But a lot of us still pick NFL games based on our hearts or based with our fan instincts. As a fan, we all love to watch high scoring games. Lots of offense, deep passes, touchdowns, it's all great fun. So it's easy to pick a team with a great offense when it's time to place your bet online. But if one thing ever holds true in the NFL, each and every season, it's that defense wins championships and defense wins games every single week. The other deciding factor is always whether or not you have a top notch quarterback steering the ship.

How about we take a look some of the best teams of the still young NFL season and see if that analysis holds up.

o The New York Giants are undefeated through the first few weeks of the season and they are still led by a pressure defense. They sack the quarterback and create big plays, which leaves the offense in better position and puts less pressure on Eli Manning to try to do it all by himself, who is himself turning into a top level quarterback.

o Moving to a team that actually plays in the state of New York, the Buffalo Bills are also undefeated in the early part of the season. The team has a solid and improving offense, and Trent Edwards may just be a star. He's led several big, late comebacks already. They are also stout on defense. They brought in a Giants player from last season, Kawika Mitchell, and young Paul Posluszny is developing into a throwback, all-purpose, tough guy in the middle.

o The Tennessee Titans have a terrorizing tower of tough guys on the defensive line. They hardly give up any points and they are extremely tough against the run.

o The Pittsburgh Steelers are led by Pro Bowl quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who only knows one thing: how to win football games. On defense, guys like Troy Polamalu and James Harrison always step up in big games and big moments.

Now let's prove the point a bit further:

o The New England Patriots lost Tom Brady, and all of the sudden they are just a good team, not a great team. Brady was protecting an old defense with his ability, but that's a luxury they don't have any longer.

o The Jets and the Dolphins are both improved this season. Nobody mistakes them for world beaters, but both improved their quarterback situation due to the tangled mess of Brett Favre. Pennington can be a solid producer and Favre is an all time great.

o Looking at the bottom rung of the league... what do we see? Typically, a mess at quarterback. 0-4 St. Louis benched starter Marc Bugler, 0-4 Detroit has no franchise quarterback, 0-3 Houston has seen bad performances from Matt Schaub, 1-3 Oakland has a quarterback with no experience, 1-3 Kansas City has lots of quarterbacks with no experience.. and the list goes on.

Add one part strong defense + one part strong quarterback and you have a winning formula in the NFL, bet on it. Never trust a team that's scraping by with a weak defense or with bad quarterback performances.

Simon M Skinner has worked in the online gaming industry since 2000. He has worked for some of the top online sportsbooks and now runs http://www.sportsbook-watch.com which reviews and recommends gambling companies online. He can be reached at info@sportsbook-watch.com

Joe Phillips AFC Notes

Through Week #3 in the AFC it looks like the Colts and Bengals are the front runners with Baltimore, Denver and San Diego close behind.

In the AFC South

Indy has to start running the ball more effectively with Dominic Rhodes. 114 yards and Joseph Addai - 123 yards - as well, as better blocking between the two. Payton Manning has been sacked 5 times so far.

In the AFC - North

Baltimore's defense is solid, #1 vs. the rush led by MLB - Ray Lewis, D.E. Trevor Price, and CB Samari Rolle. Defensive Coordinator Rex Ryan's team has registered 16 sacks. The offense has to open it up more with Steve Mc Nair to wide outs Mason, Clayton and T.E. Todd Heap.

The Cincinnati Bengals have to keep playing aggressive defense - 8 fumble recoveries and 6 interceptions. Carlson Palmer needs to stay healthy, and the Bengals need to stop getting arrested.

In the AFC West

The Denver Broncos have to get the offense going starting with Q.B. Jake Plummer - 51% completions, 2 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. Jake needs to avoid mistakes.

The San Diego Chargers could be a Super Bowl contender if H.C. Marty Schottenheimer takes the leash off QB Phillip Rivers and lets him swim or sink. They need to open it up more to Pro Bowl T.E. Antonio Gates, wide outs - Keenan Mc Cardell and Eric Parker. They have to be more aggressive.

Christopher Harris is a featured writer for the Professional Handicappers League. Read all of his articles at http://www.procappers.com

Super Bowl IV

Recently, I had the privilege of being the MC at a business breakfast. Our guest speaker was Len Dawson, who is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and was the quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs in the very first Super Bowl. Mr. Dawson spoke about three keys for success.

Prior to the meeting, I got to spend a few minutes talking with Len. He is a wonderful man. He told me that he doesn't do very many of these events, so I knew it was real treat to have him speak. Following a video presentation about his life, I brought him up to the lectern.

He talked about his childhood leading up to his pro football career as well as his sports broadcasting career afterward. (He still does the radio broadcast for the Chiefs.) He then went on to give us three keys for success: fundamentals, teamwork and a winning attitude.

Fundamentals: Mr. Dawson talked about how import fundamentals are for success. He told us that he practiced his drills faithfully for 20 years. He also talked about being prepared.

In the video presentation there was actually footage of Len throwing an interception in Super Bowl I. Not too many people would want to show that as an example to anybody! But he included it to make a point about being prepared.

He told us that on that particular play, he was not prepared for a blitz from the Green Bay Packers defense. Because of that, he tried to throw a pass when he shouldn't have. He made his point well that part of fundamentals is being prepared.

Teamwork: Mr. Dawson went on to discuss teamwork as another great key for success. "If everyone on the team does their best, then that's teamwork," Len said, "and you can be successful."

He told us that you have to be open to listen to other people's opinions. In Super Bowl IV, Len was sitting on the bench next to his receiver, Otis Taylor. The Chief's defense was doing a great job against the Minnesota Vikings' offense. Otis told Len of a play he knew would be effective against the Viking defense. "Back then," Len said, "the quarterback would call most of the plays."

He went on to tell us that Otis proceeded to write out the play in the dirt just like kids do. Otis told him that if he tried the play he knew he could beat the defender. A few minutes later it was time for the offense to take the field. Otis asked Len if he was going to call that play. "No," was Len's reply. "Not 'till we get in the huddle. Hell yeah, I'm going to call that play!"

The play worked great, leading the Chiefs to a touchdown. Len Dawson and Kansas City Chiefs then went on to win Super Bowl IV. And even though Len was named the MVP of the game, he stressed that the Chiefs won because of their teamwork.

A Winning Attitude: The final point Len talked about was having a winning attitude. Len said that the difference between Super Bowl I and Super Bowl IV was a winning attitude. In Super Bowl IV, they knew they could beat the Vikings. Their fundamentals were in tune, and they were prepared. They utilized teamwork, and they had a winning attitude.

A winning attitude is not only important, it is critical for success. And yet it is so often overlooked.

Fundamentals, teamwork and a winning attitude are three important keys to success. Having that determination, conviction, and an absolute assurance that you are going to succeed, will produce great results. It doesn't matter if it's football or sales, or whatever - having a positive winning attitude will bring you success.

Michael A. Verdicchio is a husband, father, minister, author,and broadcaster. He has been the voice on numerous productions over the years. Michael has a free newsletter called, THE PEP LETTER, at http://www.christianinspirationalgifts.com/pepletter.html

The Legacy Of The Detroit Lions

Love 'em or hate 'em, the Detroit Lions are the city's only professional football franchise. The team currently resides just a luxury sedan or limo ride away at Ford Field, located in downtown Detroit. Here are some team historical highlights:

The Lions weren't Detroit's first pro football team. In 1920, the Detroit Heralds were a charter member of the American Professional Football Association, but the franchise folded after two years. Then the Detroit Panthers formed in 1925, but that team also folded after two seasons. In 1928, the Detroit Wolverines were formed, but they failed after only one year. Finally, Detroit welcomed the Lions in 1934. The team originated in Ohio and was purchased for $7,952.08 by a group headed by Detroit radio executive George A. Richards and then moved to Motown.

The Lions played in the University of Detroit Stadium before average crowds of 16,000 people. The new Detroit Lions won the NFL Championship in only their second year in 1935. Under Coach "Potsy" Clark and stars like Hall of Famer "Dutch" Clark, Ernie Caddel, George Christensen, "Ace" Gutowsky,
Glenn Presnell and "Ox" Emerson, the early Lions established pro football in Detroit.

In 1940, Chicagoan Fred Mandel bought the club. The team was sold eight years later to a group of local businessmen under the leadership of Edwin J. Anderson. The Detroit syndicate controlled the club until 1964, when William Clay Ford became sole owner for a price of $4.5 million...

The Lions dominated in the 1950s with four division titles and three league championships. Under head coach Buddy Parker, the team won back-to-back world crowns in 1952-53, defeating Cleveland on both occasions. The Detroit-Cleveland battles of the era were classic confrontations between two giants of the blossoming NFL.

In 1967, Schmidt began the first of six seasons as head coach of the Lions. His 1970 team made the playoffs, (first post-season trip since '57) but lost in the first round to Dallas by the baseball-like score of 5-0.

During the 1974 season, the Lions moved into a new, domed stadium, the Silverdome, in Pontiac, Michigan, a suburb located 30 miles north of Detroit. It remains the world's largest air-supported domed structure and seats over 80,000 spectators under a fiberglass roof.

Monte Clark took control of all football operations as head coach in 1978. Under Clark's direction, the Lions narrowly missed playoff berths in 1980-81, before qualifying in 1982 -- the Lions' first playoff appearance since 1970.
Darryl Rogers replaced Clark in 1985 but was replaced on an interim basis by his defensive coordinator, Wayne Fontes, in November 1988, after Rogers' teams had posted a combined 18-40 record. Fontes officially was named the 17th head coach of the Detroit Lions on December 22, 1988.

The Lions "Restored the Roar" in 1991, winning a franchise-record 12 regular season games. Riding a tide of emotion after guard Mike Utley's paralyzing neck injury, Detroit defeated Dallas, 38-6, in the Lions' first Silverdome playoff contest. The victory gave the Lions a berth in the NFC Championship Game, where they were defeated Super Bowl Champion Washington Redskins.

The Lions finished 10-6 in 1993 en route to capturing the NFC Central Division title, and earned a wild-card playoff bid in 1994. The 1995 Lions featured the NFL's top-rated offense and won their final seven games to earn a third straight playoff berth.

In 1996, running back Barry Sanders captured his third NFL rushing title with a dramatic 175-yard outburst on the final Monday night of the season in San Francisco.

Bobby Ross was named the 18th head coach in team history January 13, 1997, and led the club back to the playoffs in his inaugural year at the helm with a 9-7 record. That season, Sanders continued his storybook career by becoming only the third player in league history to record 2,000 yards rushing in a single-season (2,053) and he reeled off an NFL record 14 consecutive 100-yard outings to finish the season.

After nine games into the 2002 season and compiling a 5-4 record, Bobby Ross abruptly resigned as head coach November 6 and was immediately replaced by Gary Moeller. Moeller guided the team to a 4-3 record over the last seven games, but narrowly missed the playoffs with a loss to the Chicago Bears in the season finale. Following the season, William Clay Ford named Matt Millen President and CEO and he assumed control of team operations. On January 25, 2001, Gary Moeller was replaced as head coach by former San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg.

In 2002, Detroit opened Ford Field, the $500 million downtown stadium. Following the two worst back-to-back seasons in Lions' history, team management fired Marty Mornhinweg, who compiled a 5-27 mark over the two years. The Lions then hired former San Francisco 49ers head coach and Michigan native Steve Mariucci as their 22nd head coach.

During his third season in Detroit, Mariucci and his Lions held a 4-7 record after their Thanksgiving Day loss against Atlanta. Millen then released Mariucci and named defensive coordinator Dick Jauron as the interim head coach. Detroit finished the season 5-11 and former Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive line/assistant head coach Rod Marinelli was named the 24th Lions' coach in franchise history on January 19, 2006.

Checker Sedan is a premier mode of transportation that Detroit Lions fans use to take them back and forth to Ford Field. Checker, [http://www.checkersedan.com], was established in March 2000 and has become the fastest growing chauffeur-driven licensed luxury sedan company in Metropolitan Detroit. Checker Sedan is an affiliate of Soave Enterprises, a privately held management and investment company founded by Detroit businessman Anthony L. Soave. Checker Sedan is the official curbside luxury sedan provider for Detroit Metro Airport.

Wherever you're going, Checker Sedan [http://www.checkersedan.com] is a better way to get there. Our vehicles and drivers will spoil you with luxury. And our little extras make us the obvious choice for people who are going places.

Should Cats Drink Milk

In the movies, cats love a bowl of cold milk. In the real world, giving a cat milk can do more harm than good.

While milk might seem like a natural choice for your cat, the truth is that cow's milk offers no nutritional value for cats, and it can cause digestive problems in many. The reason is that most cats develop intolerance to lactose shortly after they are weaned. This means that they are unable to digest the sugars that occur naturally in milk. This causes problems that include diarrhea and other unpleasant digestive problems.

Some people think that cats need to have milk in order to get all the necessary nutrients. This is not true. In fact, cow's milk does nothing to meet a cat's nutritional needs. If a cat was fed only milk, it would not be able to survive. Feral cats provide proof that cats do not need milk to be healthy, as wild cats do not usually have the opportunity to drink cow's milk.

As long as your cat is eating a high quality food, and has access to clean fresh water, she is getting all that she needs. Milk alone is not a sufficient diet for any cat, and should never be given in place of food OR in place of water. Replacing a cat's food or water with milk can cause your cat to become malnourished.

Many cats do seem to enjoy milk, and this causes a dilemma for many cat owners who love to give their cat treats that they enjoy. While most cats are lactose intolerant, some are not. For these cats, milk as an occasional treat is fine. The only way to know how your cat will react to milk is to feed her some. If she does not develop diarrhea then it is safe to assume that she is not lactose intolerant, and you can continue to give her the treat she loves. Again, milk should never be given in place of food, but as a treat.

If your cat IS lactose intolerant, but still seems to crave a bowl of milk now and then, there is a way to satisfy her without upsetting her digestive system. Milk substitute that is specially formulated for cats is sold in most pet food stores. Like regular milk, it should only be given as a treat and not as a replacement for meals. Even if you feed this "cats milk" on a regular basis, a high quality cat food and fresh water should always be available. Another option for lactose intolerant cats is to give lactose-free milk. This milk is available in the same aisle as regular milk in most grocery stores.

In addition to cat's milk, there are a lot of other ways to treat your cats to special food.

If your cat normally eats dry food, give her some wet food once or twice a week as a special treat. Many makers of dry cat food also make wet food, so you can stick with your favorite brand if that is important to you.

Another way to treat your cats is to find ways to make their dry food special. Pet stores sell special gravy that can be poured over dry food. Several flavors are available, so you can offer your cat a variety to keep her from becoming bored with her food. Another version of this is to pour the water from a can of tuna over the dry food. You can also feed your cat some tuna, in place of wet food, as an occasional treat.

Take a trip down the treat aisle at the pet store, and you will see row after row of treats. While most of them are fine for your cat, keep in mind that treats should be given as such, and should not be fed to your cat in excess as this can cause an unhealthy weight gain.

Kittens, unlike full grown cats, DO need milk, but the milk they need is their mother's. The mother's milk is full of all the fat, protein and antibodies that a kitten needs to grow and survive. Until a kitten is weaned, approximately four weeks after birth, a kitten should have only milk. NEVER give a kitten cow's milk. Obviously, the ideal milk is that from the kitten's mother. If this is not possible due the kitten being abandoned or orphaned, you will need to feed a substitute that should be available at your local pet store. The kitten will need to be fed this milk substitute several times a day. While the pet store personnel can probably answer most of your questions about caring for abandoned kitten, you should consult a veterinarian to be sure that the kitten is getting exactly what it needs.

The bottom line is that milk is not necessary for a cat, but as long as she seems able to tolerate it, an occasional bowl isn't going to hurt.

David Beart is the owner of www.professorshouse.com [http://www.professorshouse.com]. Our site covers cat information [http://www.professorshouse.com/pets/cats/cats.aspx], household finances, family forums [http://www.professorshouse.com/forum], recipes and other household issues.

AJ Hawk : Green Bay Packers Linebacker

A native of Centerville, Ohio, Aaron James Hawk was born on January 6, 1984. This two-time All-American earned his title at Ohio State University and is currently a linebacker for the NFL’s Green Bay Packers. After being drafted in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft on April 29, Hawk joined Wisconsin’s professional football team.

Standing 6'1" and weighing in at 240 pounds, AJ Hawk is an undeniable powerhouse. In addition, he has the speed and agility that will prove beneficial in the world of pro football. After running the 40 in 4.5 seconds and the shuttle in 3.96 seconds, AJ Hawk proves that he has the right stuff on the field.

Every star has a story, however, and it isn’t always one of smooth sailing. AJ Hawk is no different. After spending most of his senior year in high school injured, Hawk managed to hold onto his determination that ultimately lead to his finishing the season with 82 tackles. Following high school, Hawk enrolled at Ohio State where he led the team against Kansas State University and Notre Dame in both the 2004 and 2006 Fiesta Bowls. After being recognized as the Defensive MVP during both competitions, Hawk made his move to the big leagues of football when he joined the NFL Draft in 2006. Just one year prior, in 2005, AJ Hawk was presented with the Lombardi Award, which added further credence to his abilities on the field.

NFL fans, especially those who are loyal to the Green Bay Packers, will anxiously await to see what AJ Hawk brings to the team. With much anticipation regarding his status as the team’s new linebacker, fans around the nation will be tuned in to see if he can continue his competitive nature and winning ways when it comes to the NFL. As the new season draws near, fans are sure to find out just what AJ Hawk has to offer.

Bob writes for fanfrenzyzone.com and EZTicketSearch.com Where you can purchase a AJ Hawk Jersey [http://www.fanfrenzyzone.com/nfl/aj_hawk.html] or NFL Tickets

Memorable Matchups Highlight NFL's 2008 Schedule

The NFL's 2007 season ended with the New York Giants on top for their first Super Bowl victory since 1991, capping off a tremendously entertaining season that featured more twists and turns than a NASCAR race. When the 2008 pro football schedule was announced on April 15th, NFL fans around the country immediately began anticipating what could be one of the most exciting seasons in NFL history.

The Stories

Once the new season kicks off on Thursday, September 4th, numerous questions about a number of storylines will be asked, such as:

- Can the New York Giants recapture the spirit from their miracle season and join the New England Patriots as the second team to repeat as Super Bowl champs this decade?
- Will the New England Patriots make another run at an undefeated season?
- Can the Indianapolis Colts and Peyton Manning bounce back and win the AFC?
- Will Tony Romo mature into the next great NFL quarterback and take the Dallas Cowboys back to the glory days of the 1990s?
- Can Brett Favre rejuvenate the once proud New York Jets franchise?

The Games

Although loyal fans have already made plans for where they'll be for each of their favorite team's sixteen games, hardcore and casual fans alike should circle their calendars for these marquee match ups from the upcoming pro football schedule:

- New York Jets vs. Miami Dolphins, September 7th: Brett Favre's Jets debut. Favre will be pumped up to prove to the Green Bay Packers that he still has an MVP year left in him.
- Oakland Raiders vs. Kansas City Chiefs, September 14th: Neither team is expected to challenge the Chargers in the AFC West, but when these two bitter rivals play each other, records are tossed aside.
- New England Patriots vs. San Diego Chargers, October 12th: This battle features two NFL powerhouses that could be a preview of January's AFC championship game. Tom Brady and Randy Moss versus LaDainian Tomlinson.
- San Diego Chargers vs. New Orleans Saints, October 26th: The NFL goes to Wembley Stadium in London, where the United Kingdom will get a first-hand look at emerging star, Reggie Bush.
- Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants, November 2nd: The 2008 Super Bowl winner takes on one of the leading contenders for the 2009 title in an NFC East battle. The big question: will Jessica Simpson be there, too?
- Cleveland Browns vs. Pittsburgh Steelers, December 28th: This Week 17 game could decide the AFC North and have major playoff implications.

These must-see games and many others will showcase some of the most exciting football the NFL has to offer. And once the season ends with the crowning of the Super Bowl champion on February 1st, 2009, NFL fans will begin looking toward the announcement of the next pro football schedule.

Ian Pennington is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about memorable matchups highlight NFLs 2008 schedule, please visit The Football Guide for current articles and discussions.

Tibetan Singing Bowl in Meditation

Tibetan singing bowls originated in the Himalayan regions of Tibet, Northern China, India, Bhutan, and Nepal. Historians are unable to pinpoint exactly when singing bowls came into being, but the technique to build similar instruments existed in Asia as long as 2,500 years ago. Some sources believe that singing bowls were first used in India 3,000 years ago, and in Tibet 1,000 years ago. It is believed that the "Bon" sect of shamans often used singing bowls in their rituals.

Singing bowls were originally comprised of five, seven, or nine different metals including gold, silver, mercury, copper, tin, and iron. Some also believe that meteorite was used in making the original bowls. But most bowls were made using five metals or less.

Today, singing bowls are often made by pouring metal into a cast. These singing bowls are smoother and are generally easier to play. There are also hand-hammered singing bowls on the market. Hand-hammered bowls are more difficult to play, and even though they are often passed off as old or antique, few of them are. Antique bowls are still around, but they are very rare and high-priced.

Playing a singing bowl is very simple, and you will be able to play most bowls in less than five minutes. Simply circle the stick around the outside of the bowl very slowly in a steady rhythm. You might have to circle for a while before you actually hear anything. You will begin to hear a slight hum, and this hum will increase as you continue circling the stick around the bowl.

Singing bowls are often used for meditation, and you can play your bowl while meditating yourself. You can also ask someone else to play the bowl while you are meditating. Singing bowls are often used in yoga classes as well. In a yoga class someone would sit in the class to play the bowl while the students go through the asanas. This is a nice addition to any yoga class, and is more soothing than the recorded music that many yoga classes use.

Singing bowls are wonderful to use in outside environments and for yourself at home. They are becoming more and more popular in the west, along with yoga and Buddhism. When you are not playing your singing bowl, it still serves as a beautiful decoration for your home. In Tibet singing bowls are often used for other purposes, such as offering bowls, as well as for playing.

Sylvia is the co-owner of Hinky Import, which offers singing bowls and Chinese gifts. She has been a frequent traveler to Tibet and China.

The Evolution of the Bowling Ball - From House Ball to Your Strike Making Rocket

.Bowling balls have really come a long way, from the round stones that may have been thrown at pin like stones by the caveman, and most assuredly be the ancient Egyptians, to the "resin particle cover stocks" with unimaginable weight block shapes that are driving up averages today.

The Dutch introduced a game similar to what we play today to America during the colonial period, possibly. This game evolved into the game of "nine pin" which became a very popular gambling game, the authorities of the time eventually banned the sport of "nine Pin". In order to skirt the ban on "nine Pin" it is popularly believed that a tenth pin was added to the deck, thus the game we know as "ten pin bowling". The ball used for these games and up to the very early 20th century was made of a very dense hardwood, lignum vitae. In 1905 the first rubber ball, named the "Evertrue" was introduced, about this time the 16-pound maximum weight limit was imposed. Then in 1914 the "Mineralite" ball was introduced by the Brunswick Corporation, then a maker of billiards balls, and was successfully promoted, touting its "mysterious rubber compound". These types of bowling ball, and variations of it, were the mainstays until about the 1970's.

During the early 1970's polyester/plastic bowling balls were introduced. The characteristics of these bowling balls are low production costs, which allows lower costs for bowlers buying their own equipment, durability, many color or design choices. The disadvantages are that these balls do not "grip" the lane very well and usually go very straight, however the tendency to go straight does make them very popular as a spare ball, and many are used today just for that purpose. Most bowling center have a selection of house balls for the patrons to use, most of those balls are either hard rubber or polyester bowling ball.

In 1981 Ebonite developed the technology to produce a polyurethane cover stock, however this was a higher cost process, and Ebonite, fearing that the bowler would not pay the estimated $80 sale price, sold the manufacturing rights the AMF. The result was the production of the "Angle", and the modern era of bowling balls was born. This new cover stock allowed more friction or "grip on the lane, resulting in a ball that was more controllable, predictable, smoother roll, and was easy to hook or curve into the strike pocket. The cover stock was also "adjustable" as to how aggressive the hook or curve was, by varying how it was finished, need less hook, polish the ball, need more hook, sand the surface. The "urethane balls are durable, last a long time, require less maintenance and still perform well, especially on "dry" lane conditions.

The 1990,s saw the introduction of the "reactive resin cover stock" bowling ball, and the stampede to higher scoring began. This group of cover stocks have a sort of "tackiness" that seems to grip the lane, this allows for greatly increased hook potential, and a ball that seems to deliver more energy and hitting power to a larger strike pocket. These bowling balls won't bowl for you, however they will make a good bowler a lot better. You no longer have to be exactly precise, but rather bowl in an area.

Building on the huge success of reactive resin cover stocks are the newer "particle reactive resin cover stocks" which are even more aggressive on the lanes.

To take advantage of these new high tech bowling balls you need to check out the pro shop at your bowling center, or find out where the good bowlers in your area buy their equipment, you need to buy from someone who really knows how to fit a ball to you and your particular style of play, and then drill that ball to match.

Jim Newell is the publisher of http://www.BowlingInfo101.com "Start Here... To Improve Your Game!"

NFL Owners To Vote On New Hair Rule for NFL Players - Hair Must Be Under Their Helmet

Self expression is something that us Americans cherish and hold dear because frankly, we are one of the few country in the world that allow you to do what you want, wear what you want and have your hair as long as you damn well please.

This whole long hair controversy started last year when Chiefs running back superstar Larry Johnson tackled Pittsburgh Steelers safety Pro Bowler Troy Polamalu (who has probably the most recognizable hair in the NFL) by yanking on his hair and pulling him out of bounds, it was a sight to see and looked pretty damn painful, but you could make the argument that Larry Johnson was doing everything he could to make the tackle. On the other hand, it was pretty brutal and unnecessary in most people's eyes.

Well, next week all the NFL owners are getting together to discuss what rules they would like to enforce this season and the hair tackle will be one of them. This rule will not require to any football player like Polamalu to actually cut his hair (God knows how much trouble that would cause), but it will require him and all the other NFL players that have hair that cover the name on the back of their jersey to keep their hair in their helmet in what ever means possible.

If this rule does get votes from all or the majority of the NFL owners and get put into affect, you can expect some very mad NFL players like Troy Polamalu of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Maurice Jones-Drew over in Jacksonville and Robert Gallery with the Oakland Raiders. There will be a lot of unhappy players and may be even protests or some players even sitting out (doubt it, but very possible).

Get all the latest Oakland Raiders news, highlights, rumors and more at my blog Raidernation4Life

"Dandy Don" Meredith - A Great Dallas Cowboys Quarterback

The Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League are a fan favorite franchise. They have been a success on the field, playing at a consistently high level, since joining the league as an expansion team in 1960. In addition to their great success on the field, "America's Team" has been just as successful off the field and is considered to be one of the most valuable sports teams in North America. At the heart of the Cowboys great success on the field are the individuals who have contributed to the play. Endless players have donned the single star and blue and white jerseys of the Dallas Cowboys and taken to the field at Texas Stadium. Through its franchise history, the Dallas Cowboys have had a number of all-stars whose skills and achievements have contributed to Dallas Cowboys history. In the process some of them, such as Bob Lilly, Roger Staubach, Troy Aikman, and Emmitt Smith have become legends of the game. One of the most successful teams in the history of the National Football League, the Dallas Cowboys hold numerous league records, thanks to these players and countless others over the years. The Cowboys hold the league record for most consecutive winning seasons - 20 in all - from 1966 to 1985, as well as the record for most seasons with at least 10 wins (24). Additionally, they have been Superbowl Champions five times a record they share with the San Francisco 49ers and the Pittsburgh Steelers. The list of team records, a part of Dallas Cowboys history, goes on and on. A formidable team with an exceptional past, Cowboys football was particularly successful during the 30 year span from 1966 to 1996 during which time the team qualified for the playoffs 24 times, played in 14 NFC Championship games, won 19 division titles, and took to the field for 8 Super Bowls, becoming Super Bowl Champions five times. Quarterback Don Meredith was one man who contributed greatly to the early years of Cowboys football success. A student at Southern Methodist University, University Park, Texas, Meredith played college ball, starting as quarterback for three years. He was selected as an All-American in 1958 and 1959 and lead the Southwest Conference in passing completion percentage during his three starting years.

Drafted by the Chicago Bears in the third round of the 1960 NFL Draft, Meredith was traded to the new Dallas Cowboys franchise for future draft picks where he spent the first five years as backup to Dallas Cowboys quarterback, Eddie LeBaron. In 1965 legendary Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry named Meredith as the team's starting quarterback. That same year "Dandy Don" Meredith lead the Cowboys to the NFL Playoffs. For the next four years Meredith would continue to lead his team to the playoffs with his toughness and determination. He was named to the Pro Bowl twice during his career and in 1966 was named the the NFL Player of the year. Unexpectedly, Don Meredith retired from professional football in 1969. Meredith is fondly remembered by Cowboys fans and in 1976 he was inducted into the Dallas Cowboy's Ring of Honour at Texas Stadium along with fellow Cowboy, running back Don Perkins.

Following his football career Meredith turned to TV where he worked as a colour commentator for ABC's Monday Night Football. After a three year departure to work at NBC, he returned to ABC Monday Night Football where he worked as a colour commentator, alongside Howard Cosell and Frank Gifford, until 1984. Meredith was known for his relaxed and light-hearted commentary on the game.

In his five years as starting Dallas Cowboys quarterback, Don Meredith left a mark on the team and the game. Thanks to many outstanding all-stars, the NFL Dallas Cowboys have been an exceptional team through the years. Don Meredith who played at the start of those years is fondly remembered by Cowboys fans and is an integral part of Dallas Cowboys history.

Rick Bedard, a lifetime fan of the Dallas Cowboys, has decided to take his love for "America’s team" to the next level. Visit Rick’s online creation Dallas-Cowboys-Apparel.com

This site filled with Dallas Cowboys Merchandise and Information is a dream comes true for Rick….

http://www.dallas-cowboys-apparel.com

Dallas Cowboys - Why You Gotta Love 'em

One of the best reasons to love the Cowboys is simply because they are "our" team. Dubbed "America's Team" by NFL Films editor-in-chief Bob Ryan in 1979, the nickname caught on quickly with adoring fans and has held its place with the team across the US. Whether you actually do love the Cowboys or not, anyone who knows their colorful history will have to agree that they are one of the most "romantic" and flamboyant of all the Professional teams out there, and we are talking about ALL professional teams, not just football.

Just the name "Cowboys" pretty much sums up what the Dallas team means to the USA. If you have ever met a real live cowboy (not the drug-store kind), then you immediately understand the significance of their name. A real cowboy is tough, independent, proud, resilient, smart, and environmentally savvy. (That means he knows what is happening in the immediate area.) These are qualities that are pretty much mirrored by the professional football team out of Irving, Texas. Even when they have a not-so-sterling season, it seems as though their fans are not the fair-weather kind. True Dallas fans stick in there with their team come rain or shine. Not very many sports teams can claim that kind of loyal support. And another thing, Dallas can boast of a fan base that is not just from Texas, but is nationwide.

Another big reason to love the Cowboys is because of the very players that have graced the narrow corridors leading in to the Texas Stadium locker rooms. The first one that steps into mind is the legendary Roger Staubach. Granted, there have been so many football greats; that Dallas has called part of the team, so it really isn't fair to pick just one. However, in many of the fans' minds still, the phrase "Roger Staubach and the Dallas Cowboys" can bring a tingle to the spine and an overall feeling of good will.

Many feel now that the gutsy 1964 draft of the Naval Academy graduate, Roger Thomas Staubach, was simply brilliant. In 1964, the then 4 year old expansion team immediately needed help and at that time, Staubach was graduating from a military institution with 4 years to go to serve his country. Also, the USA was in the middle of a war and the future Super Bowl quarterback was called to a tour of duty in Vietnam. Following his stint in the Navy, the 27 year old rookie came home and got down to the business of becoming "America's Team" Quarterback. The fact that Roger Staubach never played professional football for any other team than the Dallas Cowboys speaks volumes. His famous career spans 10 years and during that time he was Pro Bowl selection 6 times, All-NLF selection 5 times, Super Bowl champion quarterback 2 times, and Super Bowl VI Most Valuable Player. On top of what he did with his Dallas team, he took to Texas the legacy of being the 1963 Heisman Trophy winner.

Indeed, anyone can write volumes about why the Dallas Cowboys are loved and beloved by throngs of dedicated fans. They play football with a total dedication and purity of devotion that is rarely matched by any other team in the professional football league. These are traits that are being passed down by each generation of Cowboy owners, coaches, players, and staff. Of course, by adding true American heroes to the team roster on a regular basis, the job of passing on their great legacy has just been made easier.

On any given day, one can simply state that The Dallas Cowboys is one of the most outstanding professional sport teams ever put together. That is stating an obvious truth. But if you really want to describe the Texas team, they are "our" team, they are "America's Team", and they are the "team you gotta love".

Writer and editor, Freddie Brister, is a former high school football coach of 25 years. His love of the game of football is reflected in his words and memories of growing up in the South and playing football in the back yard with his brother, cousins and neighborhood friends. His biggest thrill is watching former high school players he has coached play at the college level. His favorite pastime is watching NFL football on tv and attending the games in person every chance he gets. Freddie Brister is a huge fan of the NFL and the Dallas Cowboys. Check out his Dallas Cowboys Money Clip or his Indianapolis Colts Watch.

2008 New York Giants

The New York Giants 2007 season was their 83rd season overall. Their 84th season still puts the Giants as a strong contender; as they have improved upon their previous records and finished last season 10-6, finally winning the Super Bowl Championship against the New England Patriots. They also garnered some impressive wins last season, by defeating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the winning-streak Dallas Cowboys, and Green Bay Packers. The team became the 9th wild card team in NFL history to reach the Super Bowl and the 5th wild card team to win the Super Bowl.

In 2008 the team will attempt to defend their Super Bowl title and improve their personal best 11 consecutive wins. What should you be aware of as the Giants head into their new season? There have been some losses that should be taken into account. Linebacker Kawika Mitchell left to join the Buffalo Bills, while safety Gibril Wilson joined the Oakland Raiders, along with defensive tackle William Joseph. Even Linebacker Reggie Torbor went to the Miami Dolphins.

However, the team has some happier news in signings and re-signings. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo stayed loyal to New York over Washington and signed a lucrative six million dollar contract to remain the defensive mastermind of the team. Other re-signings included punter Jeff Feagles, kicker Lawrence Tynes and halfback Derrick Ward. How about new talent? The New York Giants managed to snatch away Pro Bowl safety Sammy Knight, as well as former Carolina Panthers quarterback David Carr and linebacker Danny Clark from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

More exciting news came from the NFL draft, as the team scored six college standouts. Kenny Phillips was signed for a safety position from the University of Miami, while Terrell Thomas from the University of Southern California agreed to be a cornerback. Wide Receiver Mario Manningham heard good things all the way from the University of Michigan, while Bryan Kehl and Jonathan Goff were both signed as linebackers, from Brigham Young University and Vanderbilt University respectively. Other draft picks included Andre' Woodson from the University of Kentucky as a quarterback and defensive end Robert Henderson from the University of Southern Mississippi.

The return of the Super Bowl Champion New York Giants will happen on August 7, 2008 at Ford Field, against the Detroit Lions in the first pre-season game and then on September 4, 2008 at the Giants Stadium, as the team starts the season against the Washington Redskins. How does the future look for the New York Giants? Will they repeat this year?

Fans and experts remain divided on the team's chances, suggesting that last year's win was unexpected. They are currently listed as #4th or #5th according to some gambling odds, behind the Colts, Cowboys and Patriots. However, don't count the Giants out yet, as they do have multiple conference wins and Super Bowl wins on their overall record, and, as history states, were still the best team of 2007. It could well take a David to slaughter these New York Giants in 2008.

Catch every New York Giant game and every NFL game on Direct TV NFL Sunday Ticket. The NFL Network will air live games along with replays and in depth commentary about whats happening around the league (only guarenteed with Satellite TV). NFL Superfan on Direct TV will replay each game in 30 minutes commercial free for those die hard fans on a limited schedule. NFL Superfan also allows you to watch live football games from your PC or laptop. Visit DirectStarTV today for the best Direct TV Deals. Direct TV has the exclusive rights to the NFL Sunday Ticket. If you need to catch all of the New York Giants games, this is where you need to be.

Cleveland Browns Hire Wes Chandler As WR Coach

This time Browns' management has made some serious changes in their coach staff. Wes Chandler, a 50 year old enormously experienced league professional player and coach, has been appointed as Browns' receivers coach. He is an experienced campaigner and will perform his duties along with offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski, offensive line coach Steve Marshall and special teams coordinator Ted Daisher.

Wes Chandler started his professional career in NFL in 1978. He initially played for the Saints and then moved to the Chargers and stayed with them from 1981 to 1988. He had an impressive career record with 559 career receptions and 8,966 yards with 56 touchdowns that earned him Pro Bowl selections four times.

After retiring from professional football, Chandler took up coaching as a career. His first coaching assignment was in 1991 with Orlando Thunder of the World Football League. Later, in 1994-95, he moved as the wide receivers coach to Central Florida. Chandler has also coached in the NFL Europe and in 1999, he was the head coach of the Berlin Thunder. Apart from this, Chandler was wide receivers coach from 2001 to 2002 with the Dallas Cowboys and in 2005 he was with the Vikings.

Browns' also made another significant change in their coaching staff. The management announced that Cory Undlin, who was earlier defensive quality control coach, had been promoted and assigned the task of being secondary coach / assistant special teams coach. Now the Browns are looking for a suitable candidate to take over the position vacated by Undlin.

About the writer: Nigel Kerry is an American free lance writer born in Los Angeles, California. Kerry writes among others for Sportus.com - sports betting Odds and sportsbook, as well as Filmzone.com, a site dedicated to texas holdem poker

How to Get Rid of Toilet Stains

Nothing is quite as nice as a clean, white, and sparkly toilet, as anyone who has ever used a public restroom can attest to. But what happens when that gleaming white porcelain gets stained, or worse, has an unsightly ring? Face it, everyone has had a toilet that was embarrassing because it was stained, scratched or unsightly. Save yourself the embarrassment and the frustration of a stained toilet by using some simple techniques to keep your toilet clean, attractive, and stain-free.

Whatever chemicals you use, please be sure to follow directions thoroughly before using any strong chemicals and follow them exactly. Most importantly, never mix chemicals together or you could unwittingly create a bomb in your toilet and hurt yourself. Lastly, make sure you have adequate ventilation, eye protection, and skin protection.

The tips below will help to get your commode in tip-top toilet shape!

Basic Toilet Stain Removal

While cleaning the bathroom may never be your favorite household chore, it is one of the most important and toilets, in particular, can cause a great deal of embarrassment if they are not visions of gleaming white porcelain. But with a few simple precautions and effective cleaning methods, you can have a gleaming bathroom you can be proud of.

* The first thing to do is to empty as much water from the bowl as possible; not only does this enable you to work directly on stains, it also means that there is less water to dilute the cleaning agents you are using.

You can lower the water level by first turning off the water source and then either pouring a large bucket of water into the bowl as a sort of "manual flush" or just flushing the toilet, in both cases driving as much water down the pipes as possible.

* Next, give the inside of the bowl a general clean, using liberal amounts of cleaning agent or disinfectant and a bowl brush. If the toilet is still stained after cleaning, use some stronger cleaning agents or stain removers to tackle the marks.

Whatever chemicals you use, remember to respect the directions given and follow them exactly; in particular; never mix chemicals as this can be extremely hazardous. Make sure there is sufficient ventilation while you are working and ideally, wear eye and skin protection.

* In addition, always use an all-plastic scrubbing brush; avoid the toilet brushes with metal wires as these can scratch and permanently damage a toilet. Pumice stones have sometimes been recommended for tackling hard water or mineral deposits and while they can be very effective (although physically, they're hard work!), there is a risk they could scratch the porcelain, so be careful if you decide to use this method.

Toilet Stain Removal Agents

There are alternative methods using chemicals that run less risk of scratching the porcelain.

* Vinegar is a great all-purpose stain remover and cleaning agent. Vinegar works well on toilet stains, particularly hard water deposits or lime scale. Simply pour a large amount into the toilet bowl and leave it overnight, then clean again as usual in the morning, flushing thoroughly.

* Borrowed from your laundry cupboard, bleach is stronger than vinegar and so works on tougher stains and rings. Again, simply add to the toilet bowl (half a cup should be sufficient) and then leave for as long as possible before cleaning and flushing away.

Want to know more? You can read more tips on How to get rid of Toilet Stains, plus information to get rid of practically anything else that ails you - from bad breath to telemarketers to cellulite - at http://www.howtogetridofstuff.com

Peyton Manning - Indianapolis Colts

We've done comparisons to Dan Marino and Tom Brady the past weeks, we've praised their efforts in and out of the field and while analyzing them, we have also mentioned Peyton Manning in a 2-3 brief sentence; so now, let's focus on Peyton Manning. Again, we will try to concentrate on Peyton Manning only, so pardon us if by chance we mention someone else on the way.

Our beloved Manning has been to 7 Pro Bowls, including 6 straight from 2002 to 2007, he owns two MVP awards in 03-04, and he also has many awards and honors that could fill several NFL history books. Now, how much does this matter for us writers and you fans? Are we wondering what he had done to deserve such luck?

For years, Peyton had tried without success to win the game, the big game! Tom Brady had already won three Super Bowls, wounding Manning and the Colts multiple times in the process. After years of getting to the postseason, but disappointing, many started to wonder if Manning would ever once finish what Brady had done 3 times already.

In our stat book, he broke the mark for passing touchdowns, passer rating and consecutive games with at least four touchdown passes in a single season in 2004, but none of that seemed to matter to those in most NFL limits (in particular fans)...until he lifted the Lombardi Trophy.

In the early months of 2007, Peyton Manning led the Colts to Super Bowl XLI vs. the Chicago Bears. During the game, Chicago's Devin Hester returned the early kickoff 92 yards into the touchdown zone; Manning without delay, threw an interception on the Colts' opening offensive series. For those who witnessed that play and the game, on the sidelines, it appeared that fear started to grasp the quarterback's shoulder pads. For those who know the game, this play has always been avoided on any type of division football, especially pro.

So, for sports fans, article writers and critics, Manning was missing yet another break for prominence. Why does Manning always suffocate in big situations? Was he going to blow his chance like all the years before, was this a plan or strategy?

As soon as he threw the pick, Manning saw his mistake and immediately responded with a touchdown pass to Reggie Wayne after Chicago's secondary lost the receiver in coverage. The game seemed close through on both sides and the final score could have been much inferior, but again Manning put in a brilliant 25 of 38 for 247 yards, two touchdown passer performance in the Colts' 29-17 victory. Manning was named MVP for the game, but even better was the overseen Super Bowl curse he got off his back.

The big and deserved smile could not be better and after such a long time of being battered by the critics, the Patriots and even fans, Peyton Manning was at last a Super Bowl champion.

They say you can loose a single battle, but nobody can take the honor away and for Peyton Manning, going into combat for the 08-09 campaign, he will be aiming up this time and things will look achievable, from a positive point of view.

Cindy Ferguson is a high-ranking sports writer, currently writing reviews on the NFL Season 2008-09 for the sports betting industry. Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety on your site, make sure to leave all links in place and do not modify any of the content.

The Rich History of America's Team

The Dallas Cowboys are "America's Team". Year after year their popularity soars. They are known the world over as a great National Football League franchise and as the team that is cheered on by "America's Sweethearts", the world famous Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders. It is due to their success on and off the field that the team has such a legion of loyal fans and that the Dallas Cowboys history is so rich and storied.

The city of Dallas, Texas, was granted an NFL franchise on January 28, 1960. The start of a sports dynasty had begun. The team, first known as the Dallas Steers, then the Dallas Rangers, settled on the nickname the Cowboys. The formation of the Texas NFL expansion team didn't get off to a very smooth start. The owner of the Washington Redskins had, for several decades, enjoyed a monopoly in the Southern States of the US a monopoly he wasn't ready to give up. So the soon to be owners of the Texas expansion team went out and bought the rights to the Redskins fight song, "Hail to the Redskins". The Redskins owner quickly changed his mind and the Texas expansion team came into being. This early confrontation sparked a rivalry between the two franchises which continues to this day.

Tom Landry was hired as the first Dallas Cowboys coach of the the new team which ended their first season winless. The following year, the Cowboys selected Bob Lilly in their first NFL draft selection and in this year as well the the Cowboys' tasted their first victory. The Dallas Cowboys continued to improve and by 1966 they had their first winning season and their first playoff appearance, the first of eight straight playoff appearances (which they would later surpass with nine straight appearances in 1983). By the mid point of their first decade the Dalls Cowboys had become a powerful force in the NFL and sent eight players to the Pro Bowl. For the next 30 years the Cowboys would show their dominance in the NFL.

The 1970s got off to a great start as the Cowboys made it to their first Super Bowl, Super Bowl V. Unfortunately their first appearance ended in defeat. The 1971 season marked the teams move from the Cotton Bowl, in Dallas to their newly built home, Texas Stadium in Irving, Texas. The legendary Roger Staubach was named starting quarterback for the Cowboys midway through the season and the team found themselves making their second Super Bowl appearance. Super Bowl VI would be different as the team led by an MVP performance by Dallas Cowboys quarterback Staubach would become Superbowl Champions for the first time.The Cowboys were now beginning to grow in popularity not just in Dallas, but nationwide.

In 1974 the Cowboys stumbled and missed the playoffs for the first time in eight years. The next year they made some good draft choices and with their new talent found themselves in Super Bowl X. They went down to defeat at the hands of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Super Bowl victory would come again to the Dallas Cowboys in 1977 as they defeated the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XII to once again become Superbowl Champions. It was at this point in Dallas Cowboys history that the team was dubbed "America's Team" by an NFL films editor. It is a title that has stuck through all the team's ups and downs despite opposition from non-Cowboys fans. The 1970s glory days for the Cowboys would end with one final trip to the Super Bowl, Super Bowl XIII. . Again the team would lose to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

In the 1980's the Dallas Cowboys returned to the playoffs 5 times and won 2 Division Championships. The team however failed to claim a single Conference Championship in the 1980s, despite playing in the NFC championship game 3 consecutive years. They did not return to the Super Bowl in this decade. As the decade came to a close the ownership of the Cowboys changed, Tom Landry the only coach in Cowboys history was fired, Jimmy Johnson became the new Dallas Cowboys coach and Troy Aikman was drafted.

The Cowboys drafted running back, Emmitt Smith in 1990, and the trifecta of Dallas Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman, running back Emmitt Smith, and wide receiver Michael Irvin was set. In 1991, the Cowboys made the playoffs for the first time in six years. In 1992, the Dallas Cowboys went on to victory in Super Bowl XXVII and the following year were Superbowl Champions again in Super Bowl XXVIII.The Cowboys sent an NFL record 11 players to the Pro Bowl in 1993. After a falling out, Jimmy Jones was fired and the days of glory would soon draw to a close but not before one more Super Bowl victory. The Cowboys would get their revenge and defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XXX.

In the new millenium the woes of the Dallas Cowboys were being attributed to its owner Jerry Jones and his refusal to hire a strong coach. In 2003, however, he did just that as Bill Parcells was lured out of retirement to coach the Cowboys. November 2004 saw a vote that determined the Dallas Cowboys new stadium in Arlington, Texas would be built and ready for play in 2009. The Cowboys finished an up-and-down 2005 season in 3rd place in the NFC East. After five games into the 2006 season Tony Romo took over as the starter Dallas Cowboys quarterback. The team made it to a wild card matchup but their efforts fell short in a crushing loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
At the conclusion of the Cowboys' season Bill Parcells resigned.Wade Phillips, former San Diego defensive coordinator will take over the coaching duties for the Cowboys as they put this season behind them and strive to move forward. Based on the Dallas Cowboys history they will no doubt rise again to glory, they are afterall, America's Team.

Rick Bedard, a lifetime fan of the Dallas Cowboys, has decided to take his love for "America’s team" to the next level. Visit Rick’s online creation Dallas-Cowboys-Apparel.com

This site filled with Dallas Cowboys Merchandise and Information is a dream comes true for Rick… http://www.dallas-cowboys-apparel.com