After living in Murray Hill for ten years, a neighborhood in NYC, I’ve come to learn all the best restaurants in the area. In this guide, I’ll share with you some of my favorites. One of the best parts about NYC is having so many different options in such a small area.

Japanese restaurants are all over the area. There are several blocks with more than one Japanese restaurant. My favorite place is Chado Sushi, which is fairly new. This place has an incredible Omakase (chef’s selection) and uses some of the best sauces around. The chef came from Sushi of Gari, so I’m not surprised it’s so tasty!

Everyone once in a while, we need to spoil ourselves with some junk food. Well, if it’s your time to do this, then take advantage of Carl’s Cheesesteaks. I’ve had many cheesesteaks in NY and in Philadelphia, but this is arguably one of the best in both cities. Go with the “whiz wit.”

Mexican food is one my favorites. I’m talkin’ high end Mexican food, like they make at Biblioteca on Third Avenue. They make amazing fish tacos and if I had to eat one thing everyday, it would be these tacos. This compliments their incredible list of high end Tequila as well.

Chinese food is extremely popular for delivery. Grand Sichuan has American Chinese food, but they also have some authentic dishes that are delicious. Hot Pot, which is a common dish during the Chinese New Year, is available there and it’s extremely affordable. It’s also very healthy and tasty, but make sure to get the sauces on the side.

If you want something more romantic, Barbes is a true gem in the area. It’s away from most of the action, so most people don’t know it. However, it’s always crowded for good reason. This French Moroccan cuisine is priced well, with main courses up to $30. The staff is also extremely accommodating.

For a family style meal, Patsy’s always does the job. Some of the best pizzas and pastas around and it’s also an affordable option. If you’re with a large party and into sharing, this meal will leave you very happy.

Now get out there and go eat! This list will leave your stomach very satisfied as I’ve been eating in the neighborhood for years. These are the best places you can eat in Murray Hill!

Check out more of this writer’s articles regarding things like the outdoor speaker wires and outdoor wireless speaker system.

Since rivers are better watercourses to catch salmon, there are many rivers in North America which flow to the Pacific Ocean and Atlantic Ocean carries travelled salmon which voyage back to where they originate, to raise once again.

Although trout are also found in abundance in the same rivers as the salmon and are much simpler to catch, but the excitement to grab a bigger and stronger fish can never match the fun of having a small and fragile one.

In these similar rivers, trout are plentiful plus are a great deal easier to grasp than the salmon, but isn’t it a great deal more enjoyable to have a full-size, aggressive salmon on your line, somewhat than the more calm trout?

Fishing is not that ordinary especially if it is done to the rivers. And additional skill and training is better suited for this kind of activity you would like to prefect.

Salmon are not that easy to catch as well because they are strong. They can grow between 1 to 10 kilograms especially the Chinook kinds. So, a very well built line or fishing net should be just the thing to use for catching these fishes.

Salmon eggs create in fact alluring lure for river fishing. They are the true shade plus if you can shed them satisfactorily, the salmon almost immediately give them a nibble furthermore away you go.

Baits can also be depending on what you prefer. But what makes good fishing bait especially for King Salmon are salmon eggs. These baits might be as effective as it seems particularly if casted perfectly but you also need to make sure that the area you are fishing to is not forbidden for live bait use. The Fish and Game department does not allow inhumane baits that may threat wildlife including those fishes.

It might seem unnecessary to mention but checking your toolbox before leaving for fishing is important because many fishermen become short of equipment while they are out to cast. Enough equipment is always needed for fishing.

The writer also frequently writes about things such as the steel plate and golf cart wheels and tires.

More and more people are finding fishing for salmon more alluring. What makes it more interesting is the excitement associated with hauling a huge struggling fish at the end of the net.

However, it is important to note that fishing for salmon is not like other types of fish. Laying our bait as well as reeling in the catch calls for skills and experience that only takes time to learn. To get you started, the article offers some insight on how to go about it.

First and foremost, you need to consider the tackle to buy. Due to the significant decline in tackle prices, it is easy to be deceived. As such be on the watch out for tackle prices that seem too good to be true. To get the best bargain and quality shop from a leading tackle store instead of a supermarket. Not only will you get the best bargain but also first hand professional help.

Secondly, of importance when shopping for gear, is the pole size and sensitivity of the tip. Go for poles that measure approximately nine to ten feet. Moreover, ensure that that the reel is strong and versatile to accommodate the salmon strength and to minimize the time wasted in untangling it.

Thirdly, be sure to lay your bait well deep in the water.

Since you will be wading deep in the waters, ensure that the waders you select are not susceptible to leaking.

Last but not definitely least take time to verse yourself with salmon fishing laws. In most parts of the US there guidelines and restrictions that you need to adhere to at all times to avoid arrest. For example, there are times of the year when salmon fishing is not allowed and the type and size you can haul at any given time. Information pertaining to these laws can easily be obtained from your nearest tackle shop.

Nonetheless, getting the best out of your fish gaming depends on how well you prepare for the expedition.

See various other writing pieces created by this very writer about items like heavy duty decorative shelf brackets and metal shelving.

Destin is named after Captain Leonard Destin, a New London Connecticut fishing master. He settled in the area around 1845 or 1850 and built a New England colonial home at the location of the Monroe Point military reservation. Destin and his descendants fished the area waters for decades. The first condominiums were built in the 1970′s, and Destin became a municipality in 1984. The city has experienced rapid growth since the 1980′s. Destin is a principal city of the Fort Walton Beach-Crestview-Destin Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Located in the northwestern tip of the Florida panhandle, Destin offers an ideal travel destination for Florida and Georgian residents, as well as vacation travelers throughout the United States. White sandy beaches and relaxing warm weather aren’t the only things that beckon, there are scenic golf courses, fine dining, marine life and multiple local attractions too.

The beaches are first and foremost the main attraction on many a vacation in Destin. For those who wish to do more than simply unwind and lay in the sun, there are other beach activities you can take part in. Rent a jet-ski, or venture a bit further out from shore with a kayak. Surfboards rentals and parasailing are also available and there are lessons for those who are first timers for either activity. There are numerous charters and cruises for hire, ranging from glass bottom boating tours to aerial birds eye views of the island.

For those seeking alternate forms of water based fun, there are two waterslide parks, Pleasure Island and Big Kahuna’s. Kahuna’s has the Tiki River Run and Honolulu Half-Pipe along with miniature golf and multiple adventure rides, while Pleasure Island offers huge slides and waverunner rentals, pontoon boats and jet boats. There are many locations for renting just about any kind of equipment for beach and ocean based activities. Many of the rental outlets also offer sightseeing cruises, scuba lessons and dolphin tours.

You can switch gears to something a bit more relaxing by getting in some fishing. The city styles itself “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village”, and claims to have the largest fishing vessel fleet in the state of Florida. Fishing in Destin does not require the use of a boat, many locals find good luck and great fish simply by fishing off the closest jetty or beach pier. Many species of sport fish are caught in the Emerald Coast waters. The inshore trolling season runs from March through November and the Choctawhatchee Bay and its bayous are good year-round.

Fruitful fishing waters around Okaloosa Island, Destin and South Walton provide local restaurants and eateries with some of the freshest and largest selections of seafood on the entire Gulf of Mexico, and local dining establishments flaunt it at its tastiest. At least two dozen types of fish are caught in local waters during any one season, providing a great diversity of savory fare. Red snapper, amber-jack, yellowfin tuna and triggerfish are some local favorites that come straight from the docks of the largest charter boat fleet in the state.

Destin is home to some of the finest year round golf courses in the country if not the world. Offering degrees of challenge suited for players of every level of ability and talent, from absolute beginner to seasoned expert, the local courses boast breathtaking scenery and outstanding facilities. With over a dozen different courses, the hardest part about playing golf on the Emerald Coast is choosing which courses to play!

Although Memorial Day through labor Day has long been considered the most popular season for beach-goers, savvy vacationers have come to enjoy the area in the so-called shoulder seasons. Ask any local, and they’ll tell you the best times of the year are spring and fall. The weather is more temperate and rates are lower. Golfers, shoppers and fisherman, in particular, find the shoulder seasons are great times to be at the beach.

The beautiful waters of the Emerald Coast beaches have given Destin a reputation as one of America’s premier vacation destinations, providing sunbathers, snorkelers and fisherman with a paradise beyond words. Whether you’re looking to spend your days laying on the beach or fishing, diving or sight seeing, Destin, Florida is the only choice for the ultimate beach vacation.

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An early goal gave the United States soccer team hope, but in the end the result of their World Cup Qualifier against Mexico at Azteca Stadium was a familiar loss. Mexico rallied for a 2-1 triumph in front of their home fans, sending the US to defeat for the 23rd time in 24 games at the venue.

The United States quickly silenced the raucous crowd of 100,000+ with a goal by Charlie Davies just eight minutes into the game. It was the first time in history that the US soccer team led a match at Azteca Stadium.

Mexico would pull even just ten minutes later when Israel Castro beat US goaltender Tim Howard with a blistering shot off the crossbar. That set the stage for Miguel Sabah’s goal in the 82nd minute which gave Mexico the 2-1 victory. Mexico coach Javier Aguirre sounded both elated and relived with his post match comments:

“Today is a day to celebrate, drink a few tequilas, and then get back to work. Everybody will go to bed tonight a bit more relaxed.”

His American counterpart, Bob Bradley noted:

“I think it’s a tight game and a fair score. It’s tough loss to have so many guys work so hard and then give up a late goal. The feeling inside is one of great disappointment.”

US forward Landon Donovan spoke of his teams performance:

“We did a good job starting the game well and scoring. They made one play at the end that made the difference. It’s hard to play here, man. It wears you out. It’s just exhausting.”

The Americans finish up qualifying on Oct 10 at Honduras and at home against Costa Rica on Oct. 14. Mexico will play at Costa Rica on Sept. 5 and host Honduras on Sept. 9. Mexico will wrap up qualifying on Oct. 10 at home with El Salvador and at Trinidad and Tobago on Oct. 14.

Ross Everett is a freelance sports writer and highly respected authority on football betting. His writing has appeared on a variety of sports sites including sports news and sportsbook directory sites. He lives in Las Vegas with three Jack Russell Terriers and a kangaroo. He is currently working on an autobiography of former energy secretary Donald Hodell.

Sports gambling is a popular pursuit because everyone understands the basics of how teams win and lose and why. Horses, meanwhile, are an entirely different animal”no pun intended. It is a complex discipline unto itself, and a sound background in handicapping sports doesn’t insure success, or even mediocrity in handicapping the ponies. In fact, the history of sports betting is replete with successful gamblers that had a weakness for horse betting, with an emphasis on the word weakness. Most notable, perhaps, is the former resident handicapper at CBS, Jimmy The Greek Snyder. The story goes that The Greek was a first rate sports handicapper, but he couldn’t pick the winner of a one horse race when playing the ponies. The bad news for The Greek is that he enjoyed playing the ponies nonetheless, and often frittered away the money he won at the other end of the sportsbook.

The information below is the bare bones basics of what you need to know to enjoy a day at the horse track. If you’re interested in becoming a serious horse handicapper, you’re best advice to start with one of the countless books or DVDs that deal specifically with the discipline.

Arm yourself with information: The first step for any horse handicapper is to pick up a copy of the Daily Racing Form (DRF) and the track program. The publications give the names of the horses, jockeys and trainers, the morning line odds, and the types of bets available for each race. You’ll also have past performance charts, which are crucial for serious horse handicappers. These charts reveal a lot about a horse and what they’ve done on the racetrack, including its record, where it ran, the quality of competition it ran against, and what position the horse was in at various points in the race.

You’re playing against other bettors, not the racetrack: A big difference between sports wagering and horse betting is the function of ‘the house’. In horse racing, you’re not playing against the track–instead, you’re betting against the other patrons. The track simply serves as a ‘banker’, accepting money and paying bets. For this service, they take a percentage of the money bet on each race (called the ‘takeout’). The odds on a horse aren’t set by the track, but rather by the amount of money bet on each entry.

So where do the odds in the newspaper or program come from? The so-called morning odds are basically educated guesses as to where the wagering will go. Its roughly analogous to overnight lines in sports gambling. They can be helpful as a guideline, but may or may not be indicative as to how the actual wagering will go.

The Basics of Handicapping: Even expert handicappers approach the sport differently and, like his sports gambling counterpart, may place greater emphasis on the importance of certain data than other handicappers. Some handicappers place a great deal of weight on a horses past performances, including the quality of opposition hes run against. Others place greater value on recent workouts, and still others go to the paddock to eyeball the horses and try to determine which ones are ready to run.

Once a bettor reaches a conclusion about what he thinks will happen in a given race, it is still subject to the odds that are available when betting. This is similar to sports gambling, where an underdog may be more attractive due to an excessively high payback potential than he would ordinary, or, conversely, a clear favorite becomes an unattractive wagering proposition due to a prohibitively high price. Its all a matter of the math–if I could speak to the teenagers of America, I’d try to impress upon them the importance of doing well in math for no other reason than its importance in all forms of gambling.

Training and bloodlines: Handicappers often focus on a horse’s breeding lineage, considering the quality of the bloodlines and the racing pedigree of his parents and grandparents. Others put great focus on a horse’s trainers. An ‘A-list’ trainer can often get the most out of a horse much in the same way an elite level NFL coach can cause a team to ‘over perform’.

The Jockeys: In the simplest terms, jockeys are independent contractors and thus to make money they need to do well. In theory, a jockey wants to get on the best horse possible in each race to maximize his chances of winning. That also results in sort of a chicken and the egg conundrum–are the horses winning because the best jockeys are aboard, or are the best jockeys merely adept at getting on the best horses? Most serious horse players look to the jockey as a secondary consideration. Its sort of a situation where a good jockey cant win with a bad horse, but a bad jockey can cause a good horse not to win.

Don’t Go Overboard, and Try to Find What Works For You: As with any new betting discipline, its always sound advice to not go overboard with the amount of money you wager. These are just the basics of how to bet a horse race and what some of the salient factors are in determining who will win or lose a race, and doesn’t even to begin to scratch the surface of successfully handicapping the sport. If you want to learn more, Id suggest starting with the Daily Racing Form website, after which a simple Google search can expand your options from there.

Ross Everett is a experienced freelance writer specializing in travel, poker and sports handicapping. He is a staff handicapper for Anatta Sports where he is responsible for providing daily free sports picks. In his spare time he enjoys fine dining, fencing and deep sea diving. He lives in Las Vegas with four dogs and a pet coyote.

Ingemar Johannson died in a Swedish nursing home in January 2009 at the age of 76. He’d lived in the nursing home in the Swedish coastal city of Kungsbacka since the mid’90′s when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and had suffered from a tough case of pneumonia immediately prior to his death.

Johannson rocketed to international fame and rock star like superstardom in Sweden by virtue of his 3rd round knockout victory over Floyd Patterson on June 26,’59 to become only the 5th heavyweight champion born outside of the US. Johannson was considered the underdog going into the matchup, and due to the perception that he wasn’t training particularly hard entered the bout a 5/1 underdog. Johansson was frequently seen in Catskill nightspots during his training camp with his attractive young secretary in stark contrast to Patterson’s disciplined regimen in preparation for his title defense.

His performance against the champ that night in Yankee Stadium shocked the boxing world”after a tentative first two rounds, Johannson floored Patterson with a short right early in the third. The champ never recovered and with no three knockdown rule in effect was knocked down a total of seven times before referee Ruby Goldstein called a halt to the proceedings and awarded the Swede the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world.

Johannson would hold the title for just under a year before he lost it back to Patterson in a rematch at the Polo Grounds in New York City. Patterson was the aggressor from the opening bell, and would eventually regain his title as he knocked Johannson out cold in the fifth round with a looping left hook. Displaying the class for which he became famous, Patterson was less concerned about celebrating his victory as he was for the well being of his opponent.

The two men would fight for a third time nine months later in Miami Beach, Florida. Though Johannson appeared to be out of shape entering the battle, he fought bravely in an exciting slugfest that saw both men taste the canvas at various points in the bout. The first round was particularly epic, with Patterson down twice and Johannson once. Soon after, however, it became apparent that Johannson knew an early assault was his only real chance at victory. The superior conditioning of Patterson took over, and he put his opponent away for good in the 6th round. Johannson would fight four more times , posting victories in Sweden before retiring from the ring in’63.

Not surprising given the mutual respect shown during their heavyweight championship trilogy, Patterson and Johannson remained close lifelong friends and would travel to visit each other every year until the American champion died in 2006. While it is commonplace today for former in-ring adversaries to become close personal friends, it was something of an anomaly in the’60s. Johannson made a number of film appearances in Sweden, and spent time in South Florida every year. He remained in good health well into his sixties, running in marathons yearly until his physical ailments took their toll.

Johannson was married and divorced twice, and is survived by five children. Ingemar Johannson enjoyed rock star like status in Sweden during his title reign and remained a widely respected and admired sportsman throughout his life. He’ll be remembered by the international boxing community for the vital role he played in popularizing the sport in Europe and Scandinavia.

Ross Everett is a freelance sports writer and respected authority on NFL football betting. His writing has appeared on a variety of sports sites including sports news and sportsbook directory sites. He lives in Las Vegas with three Jack Russell Terriers and a kangaroo. He is currently working on an autobiography of former energy secretary Donald Hodell.

In the muddy mess of a rain soaked Churchill Downs, jockey Calvin Borel continued his mastery of the track as he guided Super Saver to victory in the Kentucky Derby. Super Saver had gone off as an 8-1 choice behind 6-1 favorite Looking At Lucky, and Borel took the ‘Run For The Roses’ for the second consecutive year and an unprecedented third time in four years. Borel was aboard 50-1 longshot Mine That Bird in 2009 and rode Street Sense in 2007.

Borel became the ninth jockey to win the Kentucky Derby at least three times. Eddie Arcaro and Bill Hartack both won it five times while Bill Shoemaker has won it four times. Angel Cordero Jr., Kent Desormeaux, Gary Stevens, Issac Murphy and Earl Sande are the others to have won three Derbies.

After the race Bob Baffert, who watched race favorite Lookin At Lucky finish sixth, gave Borel his due credit:

“This Calvin Borel, you got to give him credit, he knows how to win this race. He gets right on top of that rail, takes advantage. Smart rider; he owns this track. The thing about Calvin is he takes control of the race. He’s great here. He’s a great rider and he can get it done.”

Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas concurred:

“Used to be Pat Day, now I think Calvin owns Churchill Downs. He’s got a great feel for it and they’re running for him and his confidence is sky high. He’s just a great rider, too, a great horseman in a lot of ways.”

Super Saver’s trainer Todd Pletcher also praised Borel:

“I said earlier in the week that Calvin Borel is a great rider anywhere he goes, but for some reason at Churchill Downs he’s even five lengths better. He’s just figured out Churchill Downs. He knows how to ride this track, he gets along with the colt really well.”

Super Saver won by 2 lengths over second place Ice Box. Paddy O’Prado finished third. Make Music for Me was fourth, followed by Noble’s Promise, Lookin At Lucky, Dublin, Stately Victor, Mission Impazible, Devil May Care, American Lion and Jackson Bend.Discreetly Mine was 13th, followed by Dean’s Kitten, Conveyance, Homeboykris, Sidney’s Candy, Line of David, Awesome Act and Backtalk.

Ross Everett is a freelance sports writer and respected authority on football betting. His writing has appeared on a variety of sports sites including sports news and sportsbook directory sites. He lives in Las Vegas with three Jack Russell Terriers and a kangaroo. He is currently working on an autobiography of former interior secretary James Watt.

Though it is sometimes overshadowed by more famous tracks back East like Churchill downs and Belmont Park, Del Mar Racetrack in Southern California has a rich and fascinating history. Located 20 miles north of San Diego and known for its iconic slogan “Where The Surf Meets the Turf”, Del Mar has not only hosted the best horses and jockeys on the planet but a ‘who’s who’ of show biz elite.

The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club was founded in the mid’30s, and they immediately turned their attention to building a world class horse racing venue. The names that were instrumental in the creation of Del Mar include a whos who of American entertainment–most notably Bing Crosby, Oliver Hardy (of Laurel and Hardy) and Jimmy Durante. At the time the facility opened thoroughbred horse racing was the second most popular sport in America behind major league baseball, and Del Mar’s show biz roots further helped secure its place as an important stop on the racing circuit.

Additionally, the star power involved with the project also provided a trendy cachet that the tonier race courses back East lacked. Bing Crosby himself greeted patrons at the gate on opening day, and during the late’30s and early’40s it became a place to be seen for Hollywood A-listers and those who aspired for celebrity. In addition to known gambling enthusiasts like W.C. Fields, Edgar Bergen and Red Skelton, the Del Mar patrons during that time also included some of the top female stars of the era including Ava Gardner, Paulette Goddard and Dorothy Lamour.

Del Mar was the site of the’38 match race between Seabiscuit and Ligaroti. Seabiscut won the $25,000 winner take all challenge by a nose, and this race set Del Mar betting and attendance records and remains one of the most famous races in history. The racing at Del Mar continued to flourish until the start of WWII, when the track went ‘dark’ for racing.

After the war, Del Mar reopened with a bang. The track reopened the day after Japan formally surrendered to Allied forces, and on that day Del Mar attracted over 20,000 fans through its gates who wagered what at the time was a record $958,476. The postwar prosperity was also a boon to Del Mar, which also benefitted from the Santa Fe Railroads daily Racetrack Special that brought bettors down from Los Angeles to enjoy a day at the track. During the latter part of the decade a new crop of Hollywood glitterati would flock to Del Mar, including Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, Mickey Rooney John Holmes, Frank Sinatra and Jimmy Durante. Durante would become such a regular that the turf course at Del Mar would later be renamed in his honor.

Even though the popularity of horse racing among the mainstream populace would ebb over the years, Del Mar remains a viable part of the thoroughbred community to this day. Theyve updated their facility, with a state of the art grand stand and most recently a synthetic polytrack surface that was installed in 2007. The racing season at Del Mar begins in mid July, and hosts crowds of 20,000+ on a daily basis throughout.

Ross Everett is a widely published freelance sports writer and respected authority on baseball betting. His writing has appeared on a variety of sports sites including sports news and sportsbook directory sites. He lives in Las Vegas with three Jack Russell Terriers and a kangaroo. He is currently working on an autobiography of former interior secretary James Watt.

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One of the few restaurants in the country to be immortalized in a Sinatra song, the Pump Room in Chicago is now a hot spot once again. The Pump Room was one of the first quality restaurants to open in Chicago after the end of Prohibition, and soon became a Windy City icon. In addition to Sinatra (who sang the praises of the place in the classic song Chicago), the place was a favorite hangout of a lot of famous people including Marilyn Monroe, Sammy Davis, Humphrey Bogart, Clark Gable, Ronald Reagan, Bette Davis and numerous others. The Pump Room, named after a spa in Bath, England, remained open long after the giants that once graced its premises had left. Unfortunately, time took its toll on the legendary establishment, and its culinary fare was soon surpassed by the fine dining scene exploding in Chicago and characterized by uber-chef Charlie Trotter.

Ernie Blyfield opened the Pump Room in the Ambassador East Hotel in late’38. He took the name from an 18th century London pub favored by celebrities and nobility, including Queen Anne. The original pub got its name from the hot drinks pumped into the cocktails of its stylish clientele.

The Chicago Pump Room was a smashing success from the time it opened. It’s most desired table reserved for ‘A list’ celebrities was Booth #1, which for a time may have been the most sought after table at any dining establishment in the country. Booth #1 at various times hosted Frank Sinatra and his associates, Bogart and Bacall, Judy Garland and daughter Liza Minnelli, John Barrymore and countless others.

Blyfield died in’50, but the Pump Room remained a Chicago hot spot and hosted a new era of superstars including Mel Brooks, Beverly Sills, Paul Newman, Robert Redford. More recently, Michael J. Fox, Eddie Murphy and Mick Jagger have made appearances. A funny story involves former Genesis drummer Phil Collins, who was refused entry for not wearing a jacket. The incident was commemorated in the title of his next solo album No Jacket Required which has since sold over– million copies worldwide and launched Collins into solo superstardom. Following its release, the Pump Room sent Collins an apology”and an appropriate jacket so that the incident wouldnt be repeated.

The Pump Room experienced a revitalization in the late’90′s when it was purchased by a large restaurant management group. They spent a lot of money to renovate the facility, overhaul the menu and hire a top flight staff. While the Pump Room’s golden era trade mark flaming food served on a sword was a tragedy of city fire codes, the menu is now on par with any in the city serving a sophisticated interpretation of classic American cuisine. In addition to the revamped cuisine, the Pump Room upgraded its wine offering and expanded the bar area.

Today, current Executive Chef Nick Sutton continues the restaurant’s tradition of culinary excellence. The most amazing thing about the restaurant, however, remains the almost palpable sense of history that the dining room affords. Sitting in the same room where icons of American culture from Sinatra to Bogart held court is an intoxicating experience in itself. Chef Sutton has maintained the quality of the Pump Room’s food and service to the high level worthy of the legends that have dined there.

Ross Everett is a widely published freelance sports writer and highly respected authority on sports betting odds comparison. He writing has appeared on a variety of sports sites including sports news and sportsbook directory sites. He lives in Las Vegas with three Jack Russell Terriers and a kangaroo. He is currently working on an autobiography of former interior secretary James Watt.

Do you like camping out in the winter? Have you ever tried camping in the Pocono Mountains with your tent on your back? Well, one thing is for certain, it is not a family type of holiday! It is definitely an extreme sport for the hardened outdoor type. Whether you go traipsing through the snow on skis langlaufen style, use huskies and a sled or go by snowmobile, it is still an arduous enterprise. Problems from the cold such as frost bite and hypothermia are very real dangers.

Holidays such as these must certainly not be undertaken lightly. The days in the Pocono Mountains during the winter are cold enough, but at night the temperature just nosedives. If you have never tried such a holiday before, then you are not ready to take one on your own now. You will have to have specialized knowledge either from the military or from other such institution.

Planning and research are the two most important aspects. You will need to be conscious at all times of where the nearest help centres are. Places such as mountain rescue, hospitals, towns, shops, garages and first aid centres. You should also be aware of the weather conditions and future weather forecasts.

Staying overnight on such an arduous trip only increases the chances of coming across danger. Besides the cold there are wolves and bears. Wolves are not normally dangerous unless they are famished, but bears can be a problem. You will have to know how to keep a clean camping site so as not to attract wild animals, but you will also have to know what to do if they do come poking about.

Thermal clothing are indispensable for any winter activity like snowmobiling and they are even more essential if you are going to sleep outdoors overnight. If you stay outdoors overnight you will also have to have a very warm sleeping bag. You will also need to take account of how long you will stay away and what provisions you will need to endure the length of time of your holiday. You will clearly need to eat, so suitable, nourishing food will have to be taken with you, unless you propose travelling from town to town.

Water will not be a problem with the snow available which is very handy for re-hydrating dried foodstuffs such as packet soups and drinking chocolate, both of which are very warming after travelling all day in sub-zero conditions.

Fuel will be a major concern for your snowmobile, but if you plan your journey carefully, you will be able to pick up a few containers of petrol every day. In this manner, ten to fifteen gallons should be enough to see you through every day.

Owen Jones, the writer of this article, writes on many topics, but is currently concerned with Poconos camping. If you are interested in a rental in the Poconos Mountains, please go to our website at Poconos Vacations

The BC Lions may have turned the corner after a disappointing 1-4 start to the CFL season. This past weekend, a clearly motivated Lions team defeated the Saskatchewan Roughriders 35-20 to improve to 2-4 in CFL play. The Roughriders dropped to 3-3 in the early going in the CFL season.

Lions defensive end Brent Johnson said that the motivation for this game was simple:

“We were sick of losing. That was our only option – to win tonight. This was the must wins of must wins.”

Johnson led a tenacious Lions defense with three QB sacks. Overall, the BC stop unit combined for five QB sacks and three interceptions in their best performance of the CFL season.

Lions running back Martell Mallett caught one touchdown pass, ran for another and generally made himself a thorn in the side of the Riders defense all night. After the game, he praised the play of his offensive line:

“We just went out there and executed. The offensive line blocked well. I was just hitting the holes. They opened it for me and I got in it.”

BC starting QB Buck Pierce had been hearing some criticism from the Vancouver media suggesting that he lose his starting spot. His solid play in the victory may have turned down the heat for now:

“I was very proud of our offence tonight. “The way we stayed poised, the way we moved the ball. Running and throwing the ball, we were very good.”

His Saskatchewan counterpart Darian Durrant blamed the loss on his teams lack of execution and failure to capitalize on opportunities:

“It was frustrating. B.C. gave us plenty of opportunities to put more points on the board. We just didn’t capitalize.”

Despite the victory, Lions coach Wally Buono realizes that his team still has plenty of work to do:

“We have to play much better football than what we did. I saw the intensity that you need, I see the resilience and I saw some guys make some plays.”

BC will travel east to play the struggling Toronto Argonauts. Saskatchewan will head home to face the Hamilton Tiger Cats.

Ross Everett is a freelance sports writer and respected authority on football betting. His writing has appeared on a variety of sports sites including sportsbooks and sportsbook directory sites. He lives in Southern Nevada with three Jack Russell Terriers and a kangaroo. He is currently working on an autobiography of former interior secretary James Watt.

Jean Makoun scored early in the second half to give Lyon a hard fought 1-0 victory in the first leg of their round of 16 Champions League matchup against Real Madrid. The Spanish champions lost for the third straight time on Lyon’s Stade Gerland home field and will now have an uphill battle when the teams meet at Bernabeu to advance to the next round. With the Champions League final slated to be held in their stadium, an exit this early in the competition would be nothing short of an embarrassment for Real Madrid.

Lyon controlled the play in the first half and held a decisive possession advantage. Unfortunately, they didn’t get many accurate scoring chances with a number of them going wide or high of the net. Despite Lyon’s time of possession advantage in the first half, Madrid actually got the best scoring chances in the first half. Following Makoun’s goal just 2 minutes from the start of the second half, Madrid controlled play but could not score the equalizer. For the game, Madrid held a 66% to 34% time of possession advantage. The shots on goal were even, but Madrid had the better chances despite not scoring on them.

Real Madrid has won the Champions League title 10 times, but now must rally from this 1-0 deficit when play resumes on their home field in May. Despite their tradition of success, Madrid hasn’t made it past the round of 16 for six straight years. Cristiano Ronaldo isn’t particularly worried heading into the home half of the matchup:

“In football anything is possible. We’ve lost here but we have a game at home in which we can repeat what they did here. I’m calm. In this competition you have to suffer. I’m sure that we will give a good answer in the return game and that we will win. The Bernabeu will help us. We will have to give to give it everything from the first minute until the last. The tie is not lost.”

Madrid General Director Jorge Valdano added:

“It’s been a bad night in general, especially the result. We had ups and downs during the match, but at no moment were we ourselves. The result means we have to really concentrate at the Bernabeu. Lyon barely stepped out of their half in the final minutes, but they made things very difficult for us for a long time, especially in midfield.”

Real Madrid will have to do without a couple of starters in the rematch. Marcelo and Xabi Alonso are suspending for the May contest due to bookings in previous contests. The team isn’t particularly concerned due to their deep and talented roster.

Ross Everett is a freelance writer and noted authority on football betting. His writing has appeared on a variety of sports sites including sportsbooks and sportsbook directory sites. He lives in Las Vegas with three Jack Russell Terriers and a kangaroo. He is currently working on an autobiography of former interior secretary James Watt.

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After a controversial no contest in their first matchup, there was no doubt as to the winner of the DREAM 2 rematch between Shina Aoki and JZ Calvan. Aoki controlled the fight from the opening bell and used a wide repertoire of submission attempts to keep his opponent off balance. Most impressive was Aokis dominance of the ground game, which many observers considered to be JZs edge in the contest.

Aoki scored early with a takedown and controlled Calvan on the ground, working a heel lock attempt before taking his opponents back and attempting a rear naked choke. He was never able to complete the hold, but maintained a bodylock on JZC for the rest of the round. In the second, Aoki put on a submission clinic and demonstrated his ungodly flexibility as he spun from an armbar to a triangle choke and back again. Calvan was able to counter or escape, but looked completely out of sync as he generated almost no offense whatsoever over the 15 minutes.

Aoki was very emotional in his postfight speech to the crowd. JZC had grumbled about the no-contest in their DREAM 1 matchup, and the one sided decision made him even more dejected in his postfight press interviews.

With the victory Aoki advances to the semifinals of the lightweight GP tournament. Thats the plan at least, as Aoki made some statements in the Japanese press leading up to the fight that win or lose there would be no way hed be ready for the next round with only half the preparation time as the rest of the field.

The rest of the card was devoted to the opening round of the middleweight GP tournament. Taiei Kin defeated Minowa-man Ikuhisa Minowa in a very closely contested and entertaining fight. Minowa was clearly tired in the 2nd, and that likely sealed the deal for Kin.

Korean judoka Yoon Dong-Sik also advanced with a unanimous decision victory over Shungo Oyama. Most of the damage in this fight came from Yoons ground and pound from full mount, and he controlled the tempo from the outset. Two one sided contests followed, with Zeleg Galesic submitting Magomed Sultanakhmadov via arm bar in a minute and a half of the first round. That was followed by the MMA debut of former Pac 10 wrestling standout Ian Murphy, who had a worst case scenario draw against BJJ specialist Ronaldo Jacare.

Ross Everett is a widely published freelance sports writer and respected authority on football betting. His writing has appeared on a variety of sports sites including sports news and sportsbook directory sites. He lives in Las Vegas with three Jack Russell Terriers and a kangaroo. He is currently working on an autobiography of former energy secretary Donald Hodell.

Seattle Slew died on May 7, 2002 at the age of 28. One of only 11 winners of horse racing’s prestigious ‘Triple Crown’ he is by default considered among the all time greats in thoroughbred racing. Of the eleven horses to win the Triple Crown, he is the only one to do so with an undefeated record. He was also notable due to his humble beginnings, and is the only Triple Crown winner to have been purchased at public auction. He retired to stud in’78 and sired over 100 stakes race winners including’84 Kentucky Derby champion, Swale. Slew’s offspring have earned a combined $76 million dollars at the race track. Slew wasn’t the most majestic looking creature by the lofty standards of race horses, but was possessed with the heart, toughness and courage of a professional prizefighter.

The Seattle Slew story started at a public auction in Kentucky–not exactly a venue expected to produce a future champion. Slew, in particular, was an unlikely heir to greatness. He was somewhat clumsy looking due to a front right forefoot splay and had a shuffling gait at trot. Slew wasn’t a beautifully majestic creature like his Triple Crown winning predecessor, Secretariat. In fact, he could have been considered borderline ugly–to the extent that he was nicknamed ‘Baby Huey’ by the Keeneland staff. What wasn’t apparent at the time was Slew’s mixture of championship intangibles–competitive desire, toughness, heart and enthusiasm. His owners had unwittingly stumbled onto an equine Muhammad Ali, and his competitive fire quickly became apparent to his trainers and jockeys. His first race came at Belmont Park in’76, and he entered–and won–three races as a two year old giving a glimpse as to what like ahead.

Slew became the Kentucky Derby favorite by winning his three prep races as a three year old, including prestigious Wood Memorial. In the Derby, Slew got off to a terrible start as he stumbled from the gate much like War Emblem did in the 2002 Belmont. Unlike 2002′s Triple Crown contender, however, Slew was able to recover from that miscue and basically force his way through a pack of other horses to position himself at the front of the field at the quarter mile pole. Slew would win the Derby by a length and 3 quarters. He took another tough victory at the Preakness before clinching the Triple Crown with a 4 length victory in the Belmont Stakes.

Slew continued to campaign as a four year old, but in the days before the Breeder’s Cup there weren’t many opportunities for an older horse. He retired to stud in’78, where he sired champions such as the aforementioned Swale and’92 Belmont Champ AP Indy. Slew stood at Three Chimneys Farm in Midway, Kentucky from’85 until early 2002 when he was moved to Hill ‘n’ Dale Farm in Lexington, KY following a spinal operation.

In some ways, Slew had much in common with the heavyweight championship reign of Larry Holmes. He came so quickly on the heels of such incredible excellence–Slew was forever in the shadow of’73 Triple Crown winner Secretariat, Holmes on the heels of Muhammad Ali–that he never gained the appreciation he deserved during his prime. In hindsight, however, it has finally been noted what an exceptional horse he really was. Jockey Angel Cordero, who rode Slew during the twilight of his career noted “If I had a chance to take any horse in the world, if someone said your life is depending on riding one horse to win, I would take (Slew). I rode 44,000 horses, but he was special, he was different. He was muscled, like a wrestler. He ran different than any other horse. It was like he came from another planet.”

Following his death in 2002, Slew was laid to rest at Hill ‘n’ Dale Farm in Kentucky under a statue memorializing his legacy.

Ross Everett is a freelance sports writer and noted authority on sports betting odds comparison. He writing has appeared on a variety of sports sites including sportsbooks and sportsbook directory sites. He lives in Southern Nevada with three Jack Russell Terriers and an emu. He is currently working on an autobiography of former interior secretary James Watt.