Lebron James Is Still King

Today when all the sports reporters, sports fans and others get together to celebrate the Orlando Magic’s win over the Cleveland Cavaliers, they should remember that Lebron is still the king. As I a fan, I sat at home and watched all the Cavaliers games this regular and post season. I remembered the losses especially for Lebron, because you could tell he was hungry for a better result. Fortunately for Lebron during the regular season, his teammates showed up and were productive when it counted. But the playoffs is a beast by itself and certainly made victims of the Cavaliers. In my opnion, Lebron will needs more supports next year, nothing against the current players, but you need to show up every single night whether it the regular or post season. I admired Lebron’s leadership through it all, he was a star who shined every game, and even his worst performance was better than his teammates’ best.
After all he was the leading scorer in the playoffs, but when he was asked about it, he made little of the fact, always lifting up his teammates. Even though he was averaging 44 minutes per game, he did not whine about it. He play offense, he played defense, he was a cheerleader, he was a motivator and he was the curtain call.
I think the most touching moment for me was in Game 4, when Lebron was seen wiping blood off of Mo Williams’ face, as a result of an injury Williams sustained during the game. Now that was a touching moment that gave us a peek into the soul of a champion.
So today when we play “Sunday Morning Head Coach,” lets take the loss for all its worth and give Lebron the merit he deserves, lets not speculate if he is going to leave Cleveland, just let the guy breathe and watch his highlights. And yes I was a witness that he is KING.

Her Royal Popness Lady Gaga Has Arrived

On the urging of my 16-year old daughter, I began listening to Lady Gaga a few weeks ago, and since then I have loaded her “Poker Face” song to my Zune, and now “rocks” this tune daily. Cool points for me. The song is very catchy and the singer/songwriter “Gaga” is pop music’s latest intrigue and phenom, more in the likes of Madonna and Gwen Stefani.

But its not Madonna or Gwen Stefani that Gaga has put on notice. She is indirectly gunning for Katy Perry’s “street cred,” so Katy Perry, you had better watch out, because Gaga is up and about. Lady Gaga is knocking on the door of pop stardom and looks like she is hitting real hard. Lady Gaga struts the streets pants-less, has everyone from Weezer to Justin Timberlake singing her songs and has racked up music sales of nearly 10 million digital singles. Gaga just made the cover of Rolling Stone’s annual Hot List.

In an interview with Brian Hiatt of Rolling Stone Gaga says she did not feel that she looks like the other perfect little pop singers. “I think I’m changing what people think is sexy.” Gaga is also changing what it means to be a 21st century pop star, and she’s doing it through 24 hours a day of fierce work — she’s a walking Gaga art project, known as much for her outrageous fashion sense as her Eighties-flavored dance hits. “The truth is, the psychotic woman that I truly am, comes out when I’m not working.” She is known for rocking the outrageous fashion in the likes of Cyndi Lauper. Her voice is fierce, her musical sound is amazing, and she seems here to stay. But the Rolling Stone cover says it all. Join me and my daughter for the rolling out of the new pop princess….”poker face” style…Lady Gaga.

Muchas Gracias Barca!!!

Former Barcelona player and now Coach, Pep Guardiola has joined the ranks of soccer legends, after his win yesterday over powerhouse Manchester United. The 38-year old Guardiola has swept the Spanish and Cup Championships, being the youngest coach to accomplish this achievement. Speaking as a diehard ManU fan, I tip my hat to Pep, as his players never missed a step. Guardiola who started a ball boy at Camp Nou has come a long way baby. Guardiola became the youngest coach to win European soccer’s top club competition since the European Cup became the Champions League in 1993. Barcelona also won the trophy in 1992 and 2006.
“No team has ever done the treble in Spain, and we’ll be remembered as the first team to do it,” Barcelona striker Thierry Henry said. “That’s amazing.”
Manchester United was chasing its fourth European Cup title and fourth trophy this season after winning the Premier League, FIFA Club World Cup and League Cup.
Samuel Eto’o put the Spanish champions ahead in the 10th minute and Messi’s 70th-minute goal – his ninth in the Champions League this season – sealed the victory over the defending champions at the Stadio Olimpico.
ManU was thoroughly outplayed by the Spanish side as Messi scored his 38th goal of an amazing year for Barcelona, which has 53 league and cup goals this season. Xavi floated a diagonal ball into the United area to find Messi unmarked, and the 5-fooot-7 (1.69 m) Argentina striker – renowned for his deft dribbling and shooting – used his head to loop the ball over United goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar and into the net.
Messi set off colorful celebrations at one end of the stadium, filled with 62,467 fans, and left English fans in silence. The loss left Man United manager Sir Alex Ferguson at 25 titles in 23 seasons. He failed to match Liverpool’s Bob Paisley’s three titles in the competition. “We started the game brightly. We were confident and we could have been in front,” Ferguson said. “We had the ball but didn’t use it very well. … We defended fantastically all season but they were two shoddy goals. South Korean winger Park Ji-sung became the first Asian to play in a Champions League final. He almost scored for United in the opening minute but his shot was deflected wide after Cristiano Ronaldo’s free kick had been blocked by the goalkeeper. It was the nearest United came to scoring all night.
The victory also marked the first Champions League title for Henry, the French striker who was on the losing side when Arsenal lost to Barcelona in 2006. “Finally, I’ve been waiting for so long to get this title and now finally today,” said Henry, who had been doubtful for the final because of a knee injury. “The last five minutes were the longest of my life.”
Sports analysts and other talking heads will be waging the battle in weeks to come as to whether Lionel Messi is the top player in the world or was it just a bad playing day for Cristiano Ronaldo. As a ManU fan who bleeds Manu pride I was a tot. There is always next year – thanks for the memories guys.

Countdown to Rome

The countdown to Rome begins with the Manchester United team at the airport, all decked in suits, but finishes with them in soccer uniforms that spells power and dominace Go Red!!!

Mike Tyson’s Daughter Dies

The four-year-old daughter of former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson died on Tuesday, less than a day after her neck accidentally was caught in a treadmill cord while playing at home.

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Coach Van Gundy Flaps His Mouth Again

Orlando’s head coach Stan Van Gundy was running off his mouth again on Monday, accusing Cavalier’s center Ben Wallace of flopping. Coach Van Gundy, who is famous for his loose-mouth comments on all topics basketball, no doubt was feeling excited after the game 3 win. Sadly for him that is no excuse to rant and disrepect players.

Van Gundy said Monday he was bothered by the number of times Cleveland guard Mo Williams and Wallace dropped to the floor in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals. He said the pair fell down more times than a baby. Ben Wallace, who used to be a forceful player is coming back from an injury and has seen less that usual playing time in Cleveland. When asked about Van Gundy’s comments during Tuesday’s shootaround before Game 4, Wallace said Van Gundy should shut up. I personally think Coach Van Gundy should grow up.

Pro Bowl Patient

Four time Pro Bowler tight end Jeremy Shockey was taken to the hospital after becoming dehydrated while attending a pool a party with several NFL players in Las Vegas.

According to spokesman Greg Bensel, Shockey was discharged from the hospital, and appears to be “in good shape now.”

The party apparently was at the Beach Club Pool at the Hard Rock Cafe Casino, another Saints official said.

Shockey made the Pro Bowl four times with the New York Giants but was traded to the Saints before last season. He caught 50 passes for career lows in yardage (483) and touchdowns (0) and missed five games with a sports hernia. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Girl Power For Indy 500

In a time when women are making a mark in sports and all the other boy dominated areas of life. We can only hope that we will see three top gun competitors in one sports game or match. We see this in the LPGA, NCAA Women’s Sports, by the NASCAR bid for a female winner is about as rare as they come. Danica Patrick was the first woman to break through in racing. Now we have Milka Duno and Sarah Fisher, who have come to join Patrick. They will debut today for the first time in history at the Indy 500 race. For me it a testiment of fighting for what you want, and it writes home a story for me. You see, when I was 16 years old, I wanted so much to become a pilot or a female race car driver. I was allowed to do the cross-country races in Jamaica, but not to pursue the ultimate, as my dad thought 4 years in college was much more important. So I was derailed, but I have always had a deep love for for flying and racing. So today when these three ladies go to the pit, I will try to live my life through them, imaging that I was racing out there. I will cheer for them loudly, and lose myself in the rapture a bit. Knowing that if I had followed my own voice they could have had stiff competition. So Sarah, Danica and Milka go kick some butt today. Keep hanging with the boys!!!

Lakers’ Andrew Bynum Is Lobbying For More Playing Time

Los Angeles Center Andrew Bynum says he is not getting enough playing time and I must say that I agree with his head coach’s response. Phil Jackson said that Bynum will get more minutes when he improves on defense.

Bynum criticized the Lakers’ defensive scheme after getting yanked from Game 2 early in the second half for his lackadaisical play that led to an easy bucket for Denver.

Jackson was displeased that Bynum didn’t hustle downcourt after failing to get a pass in the post, which allowed Nuggets center Nene to make a layup and draw a foul from Kobe Bryant. So, Bynum took a seat with 7:14 left in the third quarter and never returned, finishing with nine points, two rebounds, one foul and no turnovers in the Lakers’ 106-103 loss that evened the series at 1-1.

Bynum bristled Friday when asked about Denver’s frontcourt prowess in this series.

“They’re getting their stuff because of our defensive scheme. They’re just driving to the basket and nobody’s bumping them,” Bynum said, according to The Los Angeles Times.

Before Game 3, Bynum said he hadn’t discussed his criticism with his coach but he alternately stuck by his assertion and backed away from it.

“Yeah, and I think we went over some different things today, changed it up a little bit,” Bynum said of the defensive philosophies.

So, what exactly was wrong with the defensive scheme? “Not the scheme is the problem. We’re just not executing it,” Bynum said. “You’ve got to take away that middle pass. They’re throwing it into the middle and just getting too much penetration.”

Bynum is insisting that there is no friction between him and his head coach and now says the defensive scheme is just fine. I am wondering if his teammates sat him down and gave him a pep talk about team work, because he is not really execting as he should.

Still Unforgettable Is Natalie Cole

Grammy Award winner, Natalie Cole was released from the hospital just in time to attend a private family memorial service on Monday for her sister Carole “Cookie” Cole, who passed away following a battle with lung cancer the same day Natalie received her life-saving organ transplant.

Representatives for Cole says that she continues to do well under the circumstances.

In a tragic turn of events, Cole, who had been undergoing dialysis three times a week following complications from treatment for hepatitis C (now in remission), got the call that a donor organ was available while she was holding vigil at her ailing sister’s bedside.

Cole is expected to spend the next three to four months recuperating and will reschedule her summer tour dates in support of her album Still Unforgettable. Good luck to Natalie and her family. Stay strong!!!

Indy 500 Brickyard Triumph

On Sunday, Helio Castroneves became the ninth driver to win the historic Indy 500 race three times, and his timing couldn’t have been better. Just 5 1/2 weeks ago, he was acquitted of most charges at a federal tax evasion trial, and the remaining count was thrown out on Friday.

Instead of going to prison for six years, Castroneves pulled his red-and-white car into Victory Lane at the Brickyard. He was extremely emotional, and simply brought to tears when team owner Roger Penske leaned in to give him a hug. His mom, sister and girlfriend held hands in prayer as he was making the turn for the final lap. As he pulled into the brickyard, he could be heard lamenting and thanking God for his victory. “Thanks for giving my life back,” the 34-year-old Brazilian told his boss, who earned his record 15th win at Indy.

Castroneves completed a clean sweep of every Indy prize, also claiming the pole position and winning the pit-stop competition. Throw in the federal government’s decision to drop the last of the tax charges just minutes before he went out for the final practice, and “this is the best month of May ever,” said Castroneves, now only one win away from joining the most elite group of all: four-time Indy winners A.J. Foyt, Al Unser and Rick Mears.

Castroneves pulled away over the final laps to beat Dan Wheldon and Danica Patrick, who eclipsed her historic fourth-place finish as a rookie in 2005 by crossing the strip of bricks in third.
This day belonged to Castroneves, who pumped his fist all the way down the final straightaway. “I want to climb the fence,” said the driver known as “Spiderman,” referring to his signature celebration. Then he did just that, climbing out of his car after the victory lap and scaling the fence along the main grandstand with his pit crew. Someone tossed him a green-and-yellow Brazilian flag.

Catroneves’ victory was popular with the quarter million fans, who were on hand to witness this feel good story on the hot spring day. The fans were on their feet, cheering and waving their caps as Castroneves sped around the 2.5-mile oval for the final time. “You guys kept me strong,” Castroneves told the crowd. “You guys are the best. I’m honored to have fans like you. “Let’s celebrate now!”

Although Castroneves celebrated a big win, there were other big name contenders who were ousted prematurely as a result of crashes, among them Tony Kanaan, Marco Andretti and Graham Rahal. The most frightening wreck occurred on lap 173, when Brazilians Vitor Meira and Raphael Matos got together going into the first turn. Meira’s car went head-on into the padded outside wall. He was removed from the car, put on a stretcher and taken to a nearby hospital, complaining of severe lower-back pain.

The lengthy caution period ensured that everyone had enough fuel to get to the finish. When the race restarted with 17 laps to go, Castroneves got a great jump on Wheldon and Patrick and pulled away to win by nearly 2 seconds.

It was clear from the start that Team Penske and Chip Ganassi Racing had the strongest cars. Castroneves led 66 laps and teammate Ryan Briscoe ran out front for 11. On the Ganassi side, defending 500 champion Scott Dixon set the pace for a race-best 73 laps, while his teammate Dario Franchitti, who won in 2007 and returned to Indy this year after a disappointing foray into stock cars, led the other 50.

John Daly Showing His Softer Side

John Daly Go Pink For Amy Mickelson

Pro Golfer John Daly donned a pair of pink pants for his final round at the BMW Championships, in honor of Amy Mickelson, who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Amy is the wife of world number two pro golfer Phil Mickelson, who has suspended his tour schedule to be by Amy’s side. Although Daly says he is giving Phil and Amy room to breathe, he said that he was touched by the news and is rendering his support for Amy, as he has also been affected by cancer in his family. I thought that was a softer side of Daly that we never get to see, so I use this blog post to tip my hat to him. Thanks John, for caring about a cause that has affected so many women. Good luck out there today.

John Daly Newest Fashion Statement

John Daly reveals yet another colorful pair or trousers at the BMW Championships. The multi-colored pants must have given some more golf savvy, as he holed a shot out of the sand. Daly who is currently having fun and the European Tour recently finished second in the Italian Open.

Natalie Cole Pulls Out Of Capital Jazz Festival Due To Illness

Natalie Cole, originally scheduled to perform at the Capital Jazz Fest on Friday, June 5, has canceled her summer touring plans due to medical issues related to her recent kidney transplant.  We wish Natalie the best in her recovery and hope to have her back to perform at a future festival.

However, Chaka Khan has graciously offered to step in to replace Natalie at the festival. Khan, the ten-time Grammy-winner, known for her many hits including “Sweet Thing”, “Through The Fire”, “I’m Every Woman”, and “Tell Me Something Good”, will perform as part of the Friday, June 5 lineup. Chaka Khan will share the bill with Fourplay, which should make for an awesome kickoff to this three-day weekend of cool jazz and soul! We all wish Natalie Cole a speedy recovery and hope that the Capital Jazz Fest will be a stop on her next tour.

There Goes My Baby Charlie Wilson

When you have created a name by earning fame and recognition two decades ago, as the lead singer of “The Gap Band,” going as a solo act could be tough. So here we are, fast forward to 2009, one would ask if Charlie Wilson could make a come back, and still have the musical stamina and creative genius to compete with the latest “beats”, and music trends in the 21st century R&B. Charlie Wilson has risen to the occasion and managed to fit right in, with people like Robin Thicke, Justin Timberlake and Ne-Yo, extending his act of yesterday to a fresh new sound for today.

Charlie Wilson, in my humble opinion needs no introduction. But for the young music fans, I will go down memory lane for those wanting to know. Wilson has been upfront and personal in the Gap Band’s overwhelming success going back to the 1970s. As lead singer of the Gap Band they released tracks like “You Dropped The Bomb On Me”, Yearning For Your Love”, “Burn Rubber Burn” and the ever popular “Season No Reasons To Change”. Wilson who was dubbed “the de-facto” father of the new jack , was given credence by artist like Aaron Hall (formerly of Guy) and R Kelly.

Wilson who is currently enjoying success with his latest album entitled “Uncle Charlie”, made a musical entrance or should I say rebirth with the release of “Charlie Last Name Wilson” , about two years ago which made its way on the chart a certified gold. The single, “Charlie Last Name Wilson” was quite an anthem for single men everywhere, who were looking for fresh pick up lines to win the hearts of women. This single written and produced by label mate R Kelly. Wilson collaborated with pop sensation Justin Timberlake On “Signs’. Snoop Dogg and master producer Pharrell Williams teamed up with Wilson on the Grammy nominated “track “Beautiful”. Charlier Wilson is surely appreciating the trends in contempprary music as he ca no doubt compliment the lastest “beats” with his incredible voice and unique stylings. In a recent interview Wilson said he was truly honored to be able to work with todays hottest artists, and thrilled about the success of is music.

To be able to put an equally successful album in a follow up effort tells music critics as well as fans that Wilson cares about quality. A few weeks ago when I received a copy “Uncle Charlie” album, I was hoping that Wilson would deliver like he has in the past. After listening to the record over and over again. I wanted to be sure I was ready toput my pen to paper and tell you that Wilson delivered, and delivery he did.

Judging from the the buzz around town about the Uncle Charlie album, Wilson has got another hit on his hands. He has collaborated with label mate T-Pain on the Supa Sexy track, a truly a great dance tune with some catchy hooklines and the voice of Wilson tearing it up. Wilson was excited to work with T-Pain again. Pain worked with him on Charlie Last Name wilson album, and Wilson said that he was happy he di, as has been watching Pain grow up over the last few years. First of all the song titles on the Uncle Charlie album tells a story of a man who has been around the “love” game long enough and probably broken a few hearts. Also lending his vocals of the remix was Jamie Foxx.

Of course in the tru Charlie Wilson style, “There Goes My Baby is a monster hit from the Uncle harlie album. The lyrics tells a classic story of boy meets girls, but just when you think you have this type of lyrics before, insert Wilson’s baritone voice coupled it with Calvin Richardson and Kenny Babyface Edmonds penmanship and this song a hit you can not miss. After listening to this song, I was thrown way back to my high school days, and those famous summer time jams we all use to love playing on the bopombox at the beach. But gosh, this is also a song for the prom, a wedding song, or just a song hwich tells a story we can all relate to. Oh wait did I say I have a big crush on this track. Let It Out was produced br Gregg Pagani and is a funky joint that should make its way to the dance floors around the world. I am definitely feeling this beat and for sure Charlie…”this one one points me in the right direction”.

When Snoop Dogg listen to the demo for “Let It Out”, he immediately started “to spit’ rhymes and Wilson’ decided that the song was a prefect fit for a Snoop/Wilson collaborations. This joint is a hyper track with Wilson’s vocals reminiesient of his days with the Gap Band, where he was dynamic to sya this least. You wil definitely realize that Wilson is fast forward to 2009 when Snoop chimes in in this track kicking it up a notch. Lyrics on this track is great too, if you cna force yourself to stop dancing.
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After wearing out this Uncle Charlie record on my MP3 there is no doubt that you should have it in your collection too. Wilson aims to please, he hit this one out of the ballpark. On tour to promote the Uncle Charlie album. Wilson is scheduled to perform on the 2009 Essence Jazz Festival over the July 4th weekend In New Orleans.

All Hail The Chosen One Roger Goodell

Okay after reading this blog post, you might think that I am being hard on the NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell. But these days the Commish seems to be always in the line of my fire. His latest contribution for my target practice is the Mike Vick issue. The esteemed Commish has every right to meet with Mike Vick, and determine whether to let him back in the No Fun League. But his latest sound-bite from the owners meeting in my revered hometown is turning my stomach. Commissioner Roger Goodell, who suspended Vick indefinitely in August 2007, reiterated Wednesday he will review Vick’s status after his criminal case is concluded. He has said Vick will have to persuade him and the public that he is genuinely sorry for his crime, has been changed by his experience and that he’s committed to leading a different life. But excuse me Commissioner, as a member of the public at large, I thought Vick offered an apology of the sorts before he went to jail, I saw it for myself, and I was convinced that he seemed remorseful.

Commissioner Goodell said that Vick will have to meet with him and prove to him that he is reformed enough to play football and be reinstated, and that he the Commish, will have to then make a “judgment” to reinstate the embattled star QB. Come On Commissioner Goodell – who exactly do you think you are to make further “judgment” on Mike Vick?

Don’t get me wrong, Vick is deserving of full punishment for breaking the law and for the cruelty which resulted to those poor helpless animals. But he has also served his time behind bars. While football might be the furthest from his mind, the commissioner should focus more on programs to help the players reform themselves as good standings citizens. Mike Vick should not be held as the poster boy for all the other players in the league who knowingly and unknowingly committed or harbored criminal intents.

Commissioner Goodell should choose his words careful, as it does sound like he is standing way too high up thee with wings “judging” all of the players and in some way the fans. The Commissioner might want to enlighten us as to the checklist he will bring to the Mike Vick meeting in his quest to render judgment on someone who has already served time for a crime. It is my biggest hope that Mike Vick decides to play football in Canada and give fans there a bit of razzle dazzle leaving the NFL and all the drama behind.
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NFLPA Chief DeMaurice Smith Set Ground Work For New CBA Talks

Talks of a new collective bargaining agreement between the NFL and the players union are expected to begin next month, in an effort to avoid a lockout that could disrupt the 2011 season.

Jeff Pash, the NFL’s executive vice president and general counsel, said Tuesday at the NFL meetings he believes both the league and new NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith have laid the groundwork for these discussions to begin. Pash failed to elaborate on how long he projects these talks to last, adding that they would stay at it for as long as it takes.

NFL owners opted out of the collective bargaining agreement last year, meaning there could be a labor-related stoppage if a new deal isn’t struck for the 2011 season. Combined with the global economic downturn and the chance of a longer NFL schedule, it seems possible talks between the league and union could be, at best, contentious.

“The right place to start is a place where the players understand why the owners opted out,” Smith said. “We all know that the players didn’t opt out of this deal. We do know the NFL generated in excess of $8 billion last year. We know that the average team has grown by 400 percent in 10 years. … What we don’t understand is what is wrong with the current deal when those facts exist.”

Smith reiterated Tuesday that he’d like to obtain more details on the league’s revenues, only to have commissioner Roger Goodell counter by saying the union knows details of the books “to the penny.”

Pash said the league has not set a deadline for a new deal to be struck, saying that would be counterproductive. “I think fans should be confident that we’re going to be single-minded in our focus on this as we possibly can,” Pash said. “I think it’s in everyone’s interest. We’ve had a very healthy partnership … it’s clearly in everyone’s interest to try to maintain that.”

The CBA isn’t the only issue the NFL will discuss with its players in the coming weeks and months. The prospect of more NFL games apparently is going to require more talking as well.

The NFL extended its television deals with Fox and CBS on Tuesday for two years through the 2013 season, and Goodell acknowledged those pacts allow for “flexibility” if the league added a 17th or 18th regular-season game. But it now seems likely no decision will be made until talks are held with the players.

“We have tried to look at this from every different perspective because you want to know the intended consequences and the unintended consequences,” Goodell said. “Whenever you’re dealing with the quality of the game, that’s a key factor.”

Smith said players need to be aware of what’s at stake for additional games. “The players understand the cost to their bodies,” he said. “The players understand how tough it is to get through a regular season. They understand how hard it is to try to stand up on a Monday morning. They understand why they need a day off on Tuesday. Their families understand when they get out of football and they have arthritis before they’re 40. They understand the cost.”

A Pink Ribbon For Phil And Amy Mickelson

My father once told me to serve good food with bad news, but the news Phil Mickelson received today, was hard to digest. As a fan of all things golf, there has always been a bright spot for Phil, even if he was not in the winner’s circle on Sunday. Of course that one bright spot was his family, his wife Amy was always there with the kids for a warm embrace. So today, the golfer Phil switched roles to become a caregiver as he learnt of his wife Amy’s diagnosis of breast cancer. Phil has canceled his golf schedule indefinitely to be with Amy. We can only wish Amy all the best, and hope for a speedy recovery. I am so sure this will come as an even bigger shock to the PGA Wives, who are a close knit bunch. Tiger Woods in a statement on behalf of his family, wished the Mickelsons all the best, offering his support during the tough times ahead.

2013 Super Bowl Goes To The Bayou

In light of my most recent scribes regarding the NFL Commissioner’s intent to hold a Super Bowl Championship in London. It was a happy moment for me today, when I heard that the the NFL owners voted to play the 2013 Super Bowl in New Orleans.

The 2013 Super Bowl will be the first time, that the championship will be played in the Bayou since Hurricane Katrina. The Superdome was torn to pieces as a result of Hurricane Katrina, causing 1,600 deaths statewide and devastating the Gulf Coast four years ago. New Orleans beat out Miami, which sought to go for a record 11th Super Bowl, and 2008 host Glendale, Ariz. This is the 10th time New Orleans will play hostthe Super Bowl site.

“We’re just thrilled about what’s going on,” Saints owner Tom Benson said. “We’re getting a new Superdome. Now we’re going to get a Super Bowl on top of that. It couldn’t be any more exciting than that.” New Orleans last hosted in 2002, when Adam Viniateri’s 48-yard field goal as time expired lifted New England over St. Louis.

UNITED NATIONS APPOINTS FORMER PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON TO A NEW ROLE

The island nation of Haiti received some great news today, when the United Nations named former President Bill Clinton, as its special envoy. The UN is putting forward efforts to help the impoverished nation achieve some measure of stability, after devastating floods and other crises.

Former President Clinton will earn $1 annually for his effort, and will be travelling to Haiti several times per year. Clinton said he was honored to accept the post, further stating that he believes Haiti is better positioned to make progress, for all its people than at any time since I first visited in 1978.”

“Last year’s natural disasters took a great toll, but Haiti’s government and people have the determination and ability to ‘build back better,’ not just to repair the damage done but to lay the foundations for the long term sustainable development that has eluded them for so long,” the former president said.

Clinton is popular in Haiti, but the U.N.’s peacekeepers have been widely criticized despite providing the nation with its only real security for years. The peacekeepers have patrolled since 2004 and are training an under-equipped national police force to retake control, but some consider the blue helmets to be an unwanted occupation force.

Having Clinton as the U.N.’s public face in Haiti could temper such sentiment. Clinton is still well-regarded here for using the threat of U.S. military force to oust a dictatorship in 1994, then sending Army troops and Marines to pave the way for the return of elected President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, who had been deposed in a coup.

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton also praised the appointment of such “a high-profile envoy,” without mentioning their marriage or the requirement that State Department lawyers review Bill Clinton’s international activities to avoid conflicts of interest.
“It’s the kind of partnership we are looking for across the board,” she told reporters at the White House, explaining that she had already been preparing a team to help Haiti. “This is going to be an added bit of leverage and focus for us.”

“I am confident that President Clinton will bring energy, dynamism and focus to the task of mobilizing international support for Haiti’s economic recovery and reconstruction,” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said. Haiti does not currently have a special U.N. envoy, and it is not clear what Clinton’s duties will be. The Miami Herald, which first reported the appointment, said he will be expected to visit the Caribbean country — a two-hour flight from Miami — at least four times a year.

Clinton visited Haiti as president in 1995 and again in 2003. Hillary Clinton has also visited several times, most recently for an April meeting with President Rene Preval en route to the Summit of the Americas in Trinidad.

Eric De La Cruz Needs Your Help

Its not every day that you get to reach out and touch a family in need and make a difference. This time the De La Cruz family needs more than a word of advice, they need a heart for Eric. I was pulled to this story by my dear twitter buddy “@heykim” through our virtual friendship and I have been trying every since to do whatever I can, to help this gentle giant named “Eric De La Cruz. His sister Veronica De La Cruz is also my virtual “BFF”, and she is working tirelessly to get him help through all the red tape in Nevada. Below is a letter from Veronica soliciting donations as small as $1.00. Please give what you can, even words of encouragement for Eric.

Eric is a huger hockey fan and even a bigger Ducks fan. Let help him save the puck of his life.

So before I go, I want to thank Star Jones, Kathy Ireland, Demi Moore, and other for reaching out to the De La Cruz Family. I want to also thank my Sports Buddy and Virtual BFF @heykim (twitter) for all her energy in getting the “Ericathon” going.

My friends,
I am asking for your help. Please take a moment to petition Senator Harry Reid and Nevada’s Congress members for my brother Eric De La Cruz who is dying. He needs a heart transplant. Unfortunately, there is a lot of red tape involved, and getting on the list is not easy.

Eric has a preexisting medical condition and we can’t get him insurance. We have been fighting to get him Medicare disability.

Senator Reid needs to know that there should be a change in our flawed health care system. We are praying that in this instance Nevada and California will work together so that Eric can get on the transplant list.

We are also trying to raise money to assist in paying the massive expenses involved. Please donate anything you can! Even $1.00 would be appreciated!

–Veronica De La Cruz

MR. HARRISON WASHINGTON WILL DO JUST FINE WITHOUT YOU

Of all the sound bites to make its way to the airwaves, I wouldn’t have imagined to hear one from NFL Defensive Player Of The Year, James Harrison. As far as I am concerned, Harrison’s last attempt of fifteen minutes of fame, was that cheap shot he took at Aaron Francisco, in the last Super Bowl. But instead of quietly walking away from the spotlight, he decides to surface once again, with the award winning most moronic comment of the century.

Harrison recently told a news station that if the President wanted to see the Pittsburgh Steelers, he should invited them to the White House down the road, when they are not the champs. Unfortunately, for Harrison, he is insisting on shaking things up, as far as tradition is concerned. But failed to think about the historic moment for his team. Mike Tomlin and the Steelers achieved a historic milestone together, and will mark another milestone meeting the first African American President. Again, as far as I am concern, James Harrison does not get it.

Please James, forego being a moron for just one minute and be part of the team. But if you choose to do the “White House Hold-Out”, the show must go on with out you.

RIP Wayman!!!

Rest In Peace Wayman

Today we mourn the death of Wayman Lawrence Tisdale (June 9, 1964 – May 15, 2009). We pray for his family, and hope that we can all vow to continue the fight against cancer. Wayman, thanks for the sports highlights and the wonderful music you made. May Your soul rest in peace. Tisdale is survived by wife Regina and their four children.

PLEASE ROGER GOODELL DO NOT EXPORT THE NFL

Please Mr. Goodell Do Not Export American Football

After having posted my blog about the Super Bowl going to London in the very near future, for a “one night only” hit or miss presentation. It must have added fire the much publicized disgust of that idea. Taking no credit, for my scribe and its permanent place on Commissioner Goodell’s conscience. Goodell has now changed his mind about the Super Bowl and instead said that a second regular season game will be played in the city of Big Ben.

Commission Goodell don’t you get it, the two teams who get beat over the head with a goal post to show up, or essentially relocate to London last season, did not want to go. Note to self Roger, they hated it. Maybe you should go on a fact finding mission to London, take a double decker bus, interview the regular folks you will meet on that ride, ask them if they care whether Ray Lewis runs down the Tunnel and breaks out his Gladiator antics. Yes, ask them if they care about how Santonio Holmes caught that clutch TD in last Super Bowl, ask them if they knew any of the Players who played in NFLE. FYI, that league failed and cost its parent company the NFL, the league you are now in charge of, serious financial lost.

Roger, please give up this nonsense about worldwide fans, football will always be popular here and abroad, as there is a fan living just about anywhere around the globe. We will always find fans wearing NFL jerseys anywhere from Durban, South Africa to the moon, as there is sure to be a jersey toting diamond merchant or football loving astronaut who bleeds their favorite team colors. But forcing American Football down the throats of Europeans and other people worldwide is unsportsmanlike and a play that would have earned a fifteen yard penalty. Remember Roger, football is called “American Football” abroad, so lets go ahead and thank our friends across the pond and beyond for reminding us in a subtle way to keep it “American”.

What do you plan to gain from this latest marketing push, its still not working for the fans or players. However, my recommendation is to get Harrods Store to sponsor a stadium here, and we will decorate it appropriately British, so the so-called games in London could be played there. We could in the same way satisfy your fetish for all things “brit”. Until then lets change then the NFL to mean “NO FOOTBALL LONDON” – and I am running off to get my fish and chips.

Tony Romo Moonlighting As A Pro Golfer

Moonlighting As A Golfer

Dallas Cowboys quarterback, Tony Romo’s dream to compete in the US Open at Bethpage Black this June fell short on Monday, when he shot 80 during the sectional qualifier at Dallas National Golf Club.
Romo shot even par on the front nine amidst rainy conditions, but countered with a 44 on the back nine, falling short of the cut. Sources said that he had five bogeys and a triple for the round. He will however, try today, to qualify for the Byron Nelson Championship, a tournament he failed to qualify for in the past.

This year’s U.S. Open will be played from June 18-21 on Black Course at Bethpage State Park in New York, and the course is a test to even the seasoned and skilled golfer.
Good Luck Out There Tony!!

John Daly In Contention At The Italian Open

It Must Be The Pants Dude!!!!

When I found out that John Daly finished his final round tied for second place at the Italian Open, I was very relieved. I felt happy for him, simply because I would really love for him to silence his critics. The same critics who love him when he wins, loves him when he is in contention, but hates him when he makes a mistake of any kind. Whatever happened to giving credit where it is due? For what its worth I am not saying Daly has always been right, but he is human and chances are good incentives. So while it may seem ok for all the media types to thrash and kick him while he is down. As a fan, we should realize that John Daly is just like you and me, the only difference, he has better golf game.

Daly finished in a three-way tie for second place behind Daniel Vancsik at the Italian Open on Sunday, charging back from 11th place with a 5-under 66 in the final round. Playing in his second tournament on the European Tour since the break, Daly shot a 31 on the back nine with birdies at the 11th, 14th, 16th and 17th holes, and was six strokes off the lead. The 66 was the fifth consecutive round in which Daly has broken 70. Daly finished in a three-way tie for second place behind Daniel Vancsik at the Italian Open on Sunday, charging back from 11th place with a 5-under 66 in the final round.

Playing in his second tournament on the European Tour since the break, Daly shot a 31 on the back nine with birdies at the 11th, 14th, 16th and 17th holes, and was six strokes off the lead. The 66 was the fifth consecutive round in which Daly has broken 70. Daly finished in a three-way tie for second place behind Daniel Vancsik at the Italian Open on Sunday, charging back from 11th place with a 5-under 66 in the final round.

So lets all join in and congratulate Daly for his latest accomplishment. Continue to kick butt John and hang ,that silver lining maybe a putt away. Eye on the ball, mind on the game, and of course a few colorful pants won’t hurt.

NBA Basketball Offensive Guru Chuck Daly Passes Away

May His Soul Rest In Peace

On Saturday, May 9, 2009, Legendary NBA Coach Chuck Daly passed away at the age of 78 after battling pancreatic cancer. Coach Daly led the Detroit Pistons to back-to-back NBA Championships and was the driving force behind the first USA Olympics “dream team” in basketball. Daly’s Pistons made the playoffs in all nine seasons he coached the team, reaching the Eastern Conference finals in five straight years. At a ceremony to honor Daly, former player Rick Mahon summed up his importance to the franchise in six words: “Without you, there wouldn’t be us.” Magic Johnson, who was covering the Cleveland Cavaliers versus the Atlanta Hawks half time show on ABC, said that he had fond memories of Coach Daly and remembered especially how her managed the egos on the “dream team”. Magic Johnson paid tribute to the late Coach saying that he was a class act. Coach George Karl was seen during the Denver Nuggets versus Dallas Mavericks game warming a commemorative pin in the late Coach’s honor. Rest In Peace Coach Daly …you will be sadly missed.

Chrisette Michele Sharing Her Dream And Its An “Epiphany”

Its An Epiphany

The 7th Annual Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Orange Bowl “Field of Dreams” Scholarship Benefit, which be held on May 8, 2009, at the Broward County Convention Center, will be the perfect back drop for the performance of Grammy Award winning sultry singer Chrisette Michele. So much so, because Michele’s sophomore album entitled “Epiphany” was released on May 5, 2009. Michele who has always enjoyed the cultural vibe, that a visit to South Florida brings, will surely be in sync and right at home with the Field of Dreams concept, as she has certainly been living out her dream as artist.

Grammy Award winner and Def Jam recording artist, Chrisette Michele, was born in Central Islip, New York to parents who were deacons in the local church. Growing up in the church gave her the foundation and creativity she needed for her debut album “I Am”. Michele is a glamorous and sultry singer who employs the styling of some of the great female vocalists, such as Sarah Vaughn, Jill Scott, Macy Gray, Erykah Badu, and Ella Fitzgerald. Her first nomination for a Grammy came in 2008 in the category of Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for “If I Have My Way.”

The song “Be Ok” earned Michele her first Grammy in the category of Best Urban/Alternative Performance. Some of her success was brought through by her collaboration with famous producers and artists such as Ne-Yo, Nas, Jay-Z and Kanye West for her debut album. The 26 year old Michele is a singer/songwriter/ composer who was signed to Def Jam Record by Antonio “L.A.” Reid, who told her he had “goose bumps” after the first time he heard her sing. “When Chrisette Michele enters a room,” said Mr. Reid, “the room becomes a better place.”

On this album, Michele seems set for something bigger, both artistically and commercially – a combination that starts with “Epiphany’s” title track, which is also the first single. Epiphany’ is a song about a girl who is fed up with her boyfriend and decides to take matters in her own hands. I love the hook, which is rather catchy and the lyrics has some realistic advice to women of all ages. Her voice is amazing and is truly blended with the musical arrangement setting up Epiphany to be a hit for the summer.

Chrisette will surely be ready to provide her South Florida fans with nothing less than a stellar performance. Michele was last here in Miami, when she performed at the 3rd Annual Miami Gardens Jazz In The Gardens Two-Day Music Festival. We all look forward to hearing the new song from her new album as well as her old.

“Everything is in place for one of the more successful, star-studded and meritorious group of honorees since the Field of Dreams began. This promises to be one of the premiere events of the season. Now part of the Orange Bowl Committee’s 75 year legacy, our Field of Dreams offers a can’t miss night of entertainment, recognition and the generous spirit of South Florida,” comments Antonia “Toni” Williams-Gary, Co Chair of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Orange Bowl Field of Dreams Committee.

“The Orange Bowl Committee is dedicated to giving back to the community especially as it pertains to youth academic and athletic programs,” says Lynn Washington, co-chair of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Orange Bowl Field of Dreams Committee. “We invite the public to join us as we celebrate America’s future leaders, and continue the OBC’s legacy of 75 years of making our community better.”

The Field of Dreams Scholarship Benefit is an annual Orange Bowl Committee event with a purpose of providing college scholarship funding for deserving high school seniors. The program has awarded individual scholarships, and contributed over $300,000 for African-American scholarships to organizations such as the Tom Joyner Foundation, The Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund, Florida Memorial University’s Athletic Scholarship Fund and the UNCF.

The Orange Bowl Committee is a not-for-profit, 330-member, primarily-volunteer organization. It is a self-sustaining, independent organization that supports and produces activities and events that enhance the image, economy and culture of South Florida. The Orange Bowl Festival features a year-round schedule of events culminating with the FedEx Orange Bowl on January 5, 2010. In 2013, the OBC will again double-host both the FedEx Orange Bowl and the BCS National Championship. Other OBC core events include the MetroPCS Orange Bowl Basketball Classic, Orange Bowl Youth Football Alliance, Orange Bowl International Tennis Championships and Orange Bowl Sailing Regatta Series.

Orange Bowl Committee Honors Local Miami Hero

Up, Up And Away

On Friday May 8, 2009, The Orange Bowl Committee will hold its 7th annual Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Field Of Dreams Scholarship Benefit at the Broward County Convention Center in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The Committee will be honoring several home town heroes, among them will be uber-pilot Captain Barrington Irving.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Captain Irving moved to South Florida at the age of 6 and spent his youth in the inner-city Miami. He did well in high school, but saw a football scholarship as the only route to college. At the age of 15, his life changed when he met a Jamaican United Airlines Captain, Gary Robinson, who took an interest in the young man’s future. Captain Robinson’s mentoring and encouragement helped motivate Irving to earn his pilot’s licenses, as he worked toward a college degree.

On March 23, 2007, 23-year-old Barrington Irving embarked on a solo flight around the world, to show other youths that dreams are achieved through hard work and dedication. When he took off from Miami in a single-engine aircraft, some 3000 students and well-wishers cheered him on. Over the next three months, he flew 26,800 miles, crossing four continents and encountering snow, rain, sandstorms, and monsoons along the way. When he returned to Miami on June 27th, he secured his place in history as the first black pilot and the youngest person ever to fly solo around the globe. The flight route headed eastbound with stops in countries such as the Azores, Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Germany, Egypt, Dubai, India, Bangladesh, Thailand, China, Japan, and Russia.

.Captain was awarded with the Congressional Resolution Honor on Capital Hill for this outstanding achievement and for his pioneer work in the field of aviation education. He was also awarded the Florida State Medallion of Excellence – the state’s highest honor.

In 2003, Barrington founded the nonprofit organization, Experience Aviation Inc., to introduce other young people to the field of aviation. In November 2006, with the help of local and federal grants, he opened the first EA Learning Center in Miami. The Center offers aviation education and career guidance programs to middle and high school students.

There is no doubt that the Orange Bowl Committee was thrilled to bestow this honor on such a talented professional and community leader. Captain Irving is a trailblazer both locally and internationally. He has indeed established high standards for anyone to achieve when trying to break his record and accomplishments.

“Everything is in place for one of the more successful, star-studded and meritorious group of honorees since the Field of Dreams began. This promises to be one of the premiere events of the season. Now part of the Orange Bowl Committee’s 75 year legacy, our Field of Dreams offers a can’t miss night of entertainment, recognition and the generous spirit of South Florida,” comments Antonia “Toni” Williams-Gary, Co Chair of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Orange Bowl Field of Dreams Committee.

“The Orange Bowl Committee is dedicated to giving back to the community especially as it pertains to youth academic and athletic programs,” says Lynn Washington, co-chair of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Orange Bowl Field of Dreams Committee. “We invite the public to join us as we celebrate America’s future leaders, and continue the OBC’s legacy of 75 years of making our community better.”

The benefit will also include a special performance by two-time Grammy-nominated, soul songstress Chrisette Michele. Chrisette Michele has had an “Epiphany” with her Ne-Yo penned single. Aptly titled “Epiphany” Michele’s highly anticipated sophomore album follows her 2007 certified gold album I AM. This beautiful 23 year old is a singer songwriter and composer who is signed to Def Jam Record by Antonio “L.A.” Reid who told her he had “goose bumps” after the first time he heard her. “When Chrisette Michele enters a room,” said Mr. Reid, “the room becomes a better place.”

The Field of Dreams Scholarship Benefit is an annual Orange Bowl Committee event with a purpose of providing college scholarship funding for deserving high school seniors. The program has awarded individual scholarships, and contributed over $300,000 for African-American scholarships to organizations such as the Tom Joyner Foundation, The Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund, Florida Memorial University’s Athletic Scholarship Fund and the UNCF.

The Orange Bowl Committee is a not-for-profit, 330-member, primarily-volunteer organization. It is a self-sustaining, independent organization that supports and produces activities and events that enhance the image, economy and culture of South Florida. The Orange Bowl Festival features a year-round schedule of events culminating with the FedEx Orange Bowl on January 5, 2010. In 2013, the OBC will again double-host both the FedEx Orange Bowl and the BCS National Championship. Other OBC core events include the MetroPCS Orange Bowl Basketball Classic, Orange Bowl Youth Football Alliance, Orange Bowl International Tennis Championships and Orange Bowl Sailing Regatta Series.

A Super Bowl In London…Is A Super Bowl Lost!!

I am not playing Monday morning Commish here, but the news I received today about the NFL, considering moving an upcoming Super Bowl to London, was rather disheartening. You see I am a football fanatic and way before I became a sports writer, I was a football fan, and not just any old fan – I am a female fan. Years ago, I wanted to learn about football, in order to hang out with my then husband and his friends on Sundays, instead of making the drinks and asking questions about the plays. But after watching the 16 games over the 1992 season, I fell in love with the game of football and never looked back. Yes football got me cool points with my husband and his friends, but I realized now that the game became more valuable to me.

Before long, I was like a sports analyst knowing the terminologies, reading the scheme of the 4-3-Defense, crafting my own plays for the two-minute drills. I yell at the television just like the boys do, agreed with the penalties, as long they were not being assessed against my team. I even learned about the history of he game and knew players’ stats from memory.

So fast forward ten years later, divorced and a single mom of two sports loving teenagers. Football will always be apart of our lives as a family, and is one of the ways we spend most weekends from September through January.

After the 2009 NFL Draft, I began hearing rumors and rumblings, about the possibility of the Super Bowl going to London. Like any other post draft rumor, I went in search of the truth. I started digging deep trying to get facts from my friends in the business and even media sources. I began to weigh the pros and cons about the “novel” idea being presented by the Roger Goodell and his staff at the NFL office. But after all that deep thinking I came up with only one thought – plain and simple “the NFL must be stupid.”

The Super Bowl is an American product, an entertainment bloodline, a fan’s stress relief and a serious family staple that comes once per year. So today when a little birdie told me that the rumors were confirmed, as a fan I moved the fear and disappointment “Super Bowl yellow” to red alert. This devastating news will shock mostly all football fans who have watched this memorable event year after year – from media day to the commercials.

This relocation of this American iconic event is an insult to the average football fan that can not travel to London to witness “so-called history” in the making. It stinks for the fan that marks his or her calendar for this social event. Help me with this question Mr. Goodell, who wants to go to London to watch American football? Aren’t we all suppose to learn a lesson from this current recession and “buy American”. Well note to self Mr. Goodell – the Super Bowl is an all American.

We attend carnival in Rio, but have you ever heard of the organizers moving this Brazilian cornerstone to America? Speaking with true Caribbean pride, carnival in Trinidad is no way close to the clone of a show held every year in London town. The World Cup moves to different countries because it is the “World Cup”. So once again, I will pose the question “What Was Goodell and the Boys Thinking?” Football is not like soccer or cricket, where there is a great interest overseas because of successful teams stateside. A matter of fact the Toronto Raptors is popular in Canada because they are part of the NBA. Think about this NFL shift in location, didn’t the NFL try playing this tune before with the introduction of American football to the Europeans in the form of NFL Europe. NFLE as it was affectionately called was a brainchild of the former NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue. The Euro-NFL never quite took off as it failed to pay for itself and left the NFL with a financial burden, when the league was cancelled a few years ago.

Americans are firm believers in their sports teams, and the average sports fan follows at least two or three major league teams. Most of my friends and colleagues cheer for teams on the east and west coast – AFC and NFC. They are Eagles fans, Giants fans, Dolphins fans, Raider Nation (fans), and yes Jets fans. They bleed the colors of their teams all year round and especially September through January.

The National Football League has managed to establish themselves as a trendsetter in marketing, advertising and product placement. NFL games on Thanksgiving is a marquee date on most family calendar across the country, Christmas Day games have proven to be some hard fought battles, and the ESPN Documentaries recalls the great ones – hell they are great.

In fact, NFL the Product was nurtured by the Commish Paul Tagliabue. To me, Tagliabue understand what made fans tick, he knew what player development programs would be a hit, he knew about business and he cared a lot about the fan. Tagliabue put the fun in the “No Fun League.” I am not knocking the new Commish Goodell, but I can’t believe he got this stiff upper lip going about the Super Bowl. Yes I am all for branding and widening the demographics, but the Premier League would never, never have a thought of playing the Champions League in America.

Commissioner Goodell, let us set a level playing field for the American fans. Let us bring back, tailgating, media day, super bowl parties and not to forget the thousand of enthusiastic volunteers to our home land. Not knocking the Brits either, after all no sports fan can be compared to the soccer fans in Europe – hmmm…did I say Europe.

More Tragedy Strikes After Dallas Cowboys Practice Facility Collapse

The tragic events surrounding the collapse of the roof at the Cowboys training facilities in Irving, Texas got even worse today, when the team announced that Rich Behm, a scouting assistant was permanently paralyzed from the waist down after his spine was severed during the collapse of the team’s tent-like practice structure in a severe storm. Team representatives said that Behm was in a stable condition on Sunday after undergoing surgery to stabilize his fractured thoracic spine. The 33-year-old Behm was among a dozen people hurt in the accident Saturday, and was one of three Cowboys staffers who remained hospitalized. Joe DeCamillis, 43, the team’s special teams coach, sustained a fracture of one of his cervical vertebrae without paralysis. He was in stable condition and scheduled for surgery Monday. Assistant athletic trainer Greg Gaither, 35, had surgery Saturday night to repair a fracture to the tibia and fibula in his right leg. He is expected to be released from the hospital later this week.

“To the Behm family we extend our love, comfort, and the full support of every person and resource within the organization,” Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said in a statement. “Rich is a courageous member of our family and someone for whom we care deeply. We ask for all friends and fans of the Dallas Cowboys to join us in embracing him and his family with their thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time.” Behm has a brother who also works in the Cowboys organization.

Jones, who was attending the Kentucky Derby on Saturday when the accident occurred, didn’t stop to talk to media outside the team’s Valley Ranch headquarters when he arrived or left.

After arriving at the facility Sunday morning, Jones surveyed the mangled mess. He had a somber look on his face and his hands tucked in his pockets. Cowboys spokesman Rich Dalrymple said Jones spent “considerable time” Saturday night and Sunday visiting those in the hospital. We at Dasccop wish Behm and the other members of staff a speedy and safe recovery.

Winners’ Circle For Manny Pacquiao ’s Left Fist!!

Looks Like Another One Is TKOed

I am a huge boxing fan, but have never had the chance to watch a fight in Las Vegas, although I could have. But on Saturday, May 2, 2009, I decided to host a few friends for drinks and dinner to watch the fight billed as Many Pacquiao vs. Ricky Hatton. Rick Hatton is the native son of Britian whose fan base is as big as the Beatles. But Manny Pacquiao is the humble soft spoken man from the Phillipines, who in comparison to Hatton did not carry a big fanfare, nor does he have a theme song, but his fist packs a mean bunch. While we were all entertained with the celebrities sightings, the horn section brought in for Hatton and the reporters providing us with “need to know information”. We also got to watch the curtain teasers for the main event. But little did I know, that things were going to come to a head after 2:59 minutes in the main event. First of all, we all heard that Pretty Boy Floyd would come out of retire, of course we were all hoping that he would be in pace to fight with the “Pac-Man”, if he could edge Hatton. Fast forward to the main event and with a few combinations, jabs, upper cuts and a mean left hook, Hatton was knock down. Hatton got up, determined to carry on the fight, but the mean right and an even a bigger and meaner eft took the Brit down. It was a scary moment for Hatton as he remained on the floor for a minute or two. He managed to make his way back to his feet, but did not give a post fight interview. His camp stating that he need to make his way to the hospital for futher evaluation. At his post fight interview, Pacquiao was insisting that he just wanted to do his job, entertaning the fans. My take on the fight, it was a knock out to remember…next time I will be in Vegas.

Dallas We Have A Problem

This time of year rookies in the National Football League attend off season training (OTA) with their respective teams. But the post draft hype ended really abruptly today at the Dallas Cowboys training facilities. Special teams coach Joe DeCamillis was among 12 people injured when tornado like winds ripped through the roof of the team’s indoor practice facility during a rookie minicamp.

The storm hit while 27 players were going through workouts. There were about 70 people in the facility, counting coaches, other team personnel and media, officials said. Ten of the injured were taken by emergency vehicles. Two others went to hospitals on their own. “This worked out very, very well from a medical point of view,” said Dr. Paul Pepe, head of emergency medical services for Dallas County. “Right now, I think we don’t have anybody who is in a life-threatening situation.”

The white, tent-like building is large enough to be seen from miles away. It was built in 2003, for Bill Parcells’ first season as coach. Safety DeAngelo Smith and linebacker Brandon Williams were two of the heroes during this unfortunate occurence. According to news reports, players were seen walking through the debris looking to make sure that their teammates were okay. There were also reports of a camera man who got tangled into the debris, and had his equipment hurled about two football fields away. The giant blue star atop the building lay crumpled on the ground. The storm knocked out power at team headquarters and splintered trees across the property. Larry Rodriguez, a local television cameraman who was in the news several years ago after he was attacked by Kenny Rogers while filming the former Texas Rangers pitcher, was treated with six stitches for a cut on a hand.
The names and details of their injuries were not released due to privacy issues. The storm was producing winds measured at 64 mph just before it struck the Cowboys facility, said National Weather Service meteorologist Joe Harris in Fort Worth. A weak tornado is in the range of 65-110 mph, according to NWS guidelines. Power was knocked out for less than an hour. Head Coach Wade Phillips said that he was happy no one got electrocuted with all the water in the building. This was the second of three scheduled days of practices, but Sunday’s session has been canceled.