Welcome to Michael's Article Collection

Get your Band out of the Garage and Into a Gig. "Press Ki...

So you have your garage band and don’t know the next step to start performing for an audience. Maybe you are the parent or friend of a band member and feel the band is ready to play some shows. You may just be sick of all the noise coming from the basement where your son or daughters band practices. Well, its not easy to get out of the starting blocks, but with a little hard work, your band . . .

How to Practice

In a normal day of teaching golf I walk back and forth to the range numerous times. On this journey, I usually watch the different variations people have when they swing the golf club. Some of the swings are quite good and others need a lot of work. I usually think to myself that if only they could change the way they practiced they would become so much better so much faster. What do I mean. . .

Alignment - The Most Important Lesson in Golf

When I watch inexperienced golfers players hit the ball I find that they are usually mis-alinged to their target. Typically, they aim way too far out to the right. The reason they aim to the right is because the inexperienced player has the tendency to hit the ball with their arms which causes the ball to pull to the left. This means that they are compensating for a flaw in their swing by jus. . .

Move Your Head

I still remember years ago when I first started to play golf, the tip you heard the most was "keep your head still". My father used to say it to me at least 50 times a round. He thought he was doing me a favor, when really, he should have been telling me to do the exact opposite. He should have been saying "move your head a little on the way back".Why move your head as you take the club back. . .

Barone, Drexel and Harris

My life was always about playing ball, mostly baseball as I grew up. Therefore, I was always at the playground on Chancellor Avenue. This was a hotbed for sports activity in the Weequahic section of Newark, New Jersey in the 1960's. From Monday through Saturday there were countless games taking place. Baseball at Untermann Field and softball on the blacktop. Basketball games, and volley ball g. . .

Trico Time

Ahh, yes. Trico time, the time of year accomplished fly fisherman throw down their rods in disgust. Take up the golf clubs, repaint the house, design the ninth wonder of the world. Anything but test their patience and skill against the dreaded Tricos and the super selective trout that feed on them. Called the ‘White Winged Devils’ in the gentlest of circles, these tiny micro hatches can infu. . .

Horse Training: Who's Way Is The Right Way?

The more I listen to others, read books on the subject, look at different articles, and watch and listen to tapes, the more I discover how different people claim their methods of horse training are the correct ones.I often find one trainer will adamantly oppose a technique where another will adamantly swear by its effectiveness. Even more interesting, each has his or her own reasons why.On one . . .

Horse Training For Napping Horses

If you ever rode a horse that would stop and refuse to go forward then you would know how absolutely annoying it is. Why do they stop? Because that's their reaction to a worrisome or unpleasant situation. Even nervous and timid horses can stake themselves to the ground because they are apprehensive about leaving the herd or the barn. What other reasons are there for napping? One is the horse si. . .

Titanium 101… There is a Difference

Titanium has taken the world of golf by storm. Manufacturers of some of the world’s top golf clubheads have chosen to use titanium as their chief ingredient in assembling space age, state-of-the-art components. But why is this?There are many materials as strong if not stronger than titanium. So why is titanium the material of choice? Titanium is not only one of the “hardest” metals known to man. . .

Unusual Baseball Statistics

The ezine for baseball lovers...Statistics - I love ‘em I have been fascinated by some of the statistics that have been amassed by some of the major leaguers. Viewing some players numbers has amazed me. My Baseball memorabilia are these amazing stats.Here are a few achievements I thought might interest you.Rogers HornsbyFrom 1921 to 1925 he batted 2679 times - He hit safely 1078 times And avera. . .

My Daughter Manteee

My daughter Manteee (Samantha) has shown me a path that I like traveling. She has been and will continue to be an inspiration in my life. Her fearless nature and competitive qualities have swelled my heart. I am so lucky to have her as my daughter. She loves playing softball with the spirit that I had when I played. Her competitive nature shows up in many facets of the game. As a second baseman. . .

The Swing Plane

Throughout the years, the swing plane has always been one of the most difficult things to understand. Hopefully, I can simplify this difficult subject so you can achieve the proper swing plane in your golf swing.I like to use the image of a weight swinging on a piece of string to illustrate the swing plane. What would happen if you picked up a weight on a piece of string and started to twirl . . .

Satellite Radio Showdown: Sirius vs XM Radio

The advancement of technology has seen the introduction of many new and exciting gadgets and services over the years: video recorders have been replaced by DVDs; record players with CD players and MP3s; and terrestrial television channels have been expanded to include hundreds of satellite channels to suit all tastes and ages. And now consumers can enjoy the benefits of satellite radio as well.. . .

Top Ten Reasons to get Satellite Radio

Over the years we’ve seen all areas of entertainment change and improve in many ways. We’ve seen more and more channels appear on satellite television, we’ve seen the appearance of CDs and DVDs, and now we have access to satellite radio to complement our AM/FM service. Satellite radio is available through two providers, Sirius and XM, both of which offer a range of subscription packages and pro. . .

Satellite Radio & Shock Jocks: Howard Stern – Bad Boy of ...

The term “Shock Jock” has become well known since the 1980s. These bad boys of the airwaves have happily stomped on and disregarded the FCC regulations to the delight - and at times, disgust of their audiences. The rule of thumb in the “Shock Jock” entertainment form is, the more disturbing, shocking, and politically incorrect the show - the better. Howard Stern, one of the highest paid radio p. . .

Top Ten Ways To Get Better At Playing Pool

Billiards is an old and much loved game, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. This is a game that people of all ages play; even the younger kids can play now on special child-size tables that are widely available. It is also a game that, although once more popular with men, is now keenly played by both sexes. You can play pool in all sorts of environments, from restaurants . . .

Setting up the Perfect Billiards Room: Create the Ideal S...

If you enjoy relaxing over a game of billiards at the local bar, then what could be better than having your very own billiards table at home? Your home is the place in which you want to relax and enjoy life without having to think about work and other hassles, and if billiards is your thing then it makes sense to have your own table, which you can enjoy whenever you like. With your own billiard. . .

A Beginner's Guide to Billiards

Billiards is a universally popular indoor game that is enjoyed by people of all ages and both sexes. Traditionally, billiards is played in bars, clubs, pubs, and specials pool or billiard halls. However, more and more people are realizing the benefits and entertainment value of having a billiards table and games room within their very own home. This makes a great addition to any home, adding a . . .

Where can I find Discount Golf Balls

There are a number of websites that provide all the information on golfing products and services that one could possibly need. Any avid player craves for quality sport equipments and these websites are all flooded with quality information on how to purchase discount golf ball and other golf equipments and accessories. These sites provide excellent customer service and low prices on all golf equ. . .

2005 - The Year of Patience

2005 has me going into my 15th year teaching golf. From day one, I thought that if I could come up with a technique that was fast and easy to learn I would be a pretty popular guy. Well, I did ... and I am. So what is fast and easy? Does it mean that if you take one lesson with me I can get you to shoot 72? Well ... if I could get you to shoot 72 in 1 lesson I would charge $10,000 per less. . .

Taking It to the Next Level

Here is a quick guide to help you take it to the next level. If You Shoot Over 100If you currently shoot over 100 you are probably new to the game. Golf is game that takes plenty of practice and understanding. At your level, you're probably very excited to just get out to play. You always have a big grin on your face because you've found a new hobby that gives you a little exercise and gets. . .

Speed Kills

Would you say you have a fast looking swing or a slow swing? (If you don’t have a fast swing show this article to a playing partner who does). You would think that a recreational golfer’s fast swing would hit a golf ball a long way wouldn’t you? After all, it looks fast! Yet the ball doesn’t go as far as a slow swinging pro’s ball. I wonder why...If you think about your body for a minute, . . .

Why Difficulties In Horse Training A Good Thing

I'll never forget one of the first horses I trained by myself. I could not have picked a better horse to give me problems.This horse was slow to motivate. He was very much his own "person" so to speak and was going to do what he pleased...at least...that's how it seemed.There are plenty of horses in this world that will move when you want them to move. In fact, some horses can be so nervous . . .

10 High Powered Ways To Increase Your Traffic

1. Trade links with other web sites. They should be related to the subject of your web site. Instead of trading links, you could also trade banner ads, half page ads, classified ads, etc. 2. Start an e-zine for your web site. When people read each issue they'll be reminded to revisit your web site. They'll see your product ad more than just once which will increase your orders. 3. Form an onlin. . .

10 Hot Ways To Sell Your Products Like Crazy

1. Turn your ad copy into a story or article. Your visitors won't be as hesitant to read your ad and will become more interested in your product. 2. Give visitors a freebie for filling out your online survey or they usually won't. Surveys will give your business valuable intelligence for your business 3. Enhance the power of your ad copy benefits by using attention getting words, highlighting k. . .

Stag Night Ideas

It is believed that the concept of stag parties and the associated celebrations first began in Greece. Whenever any Spartan was to enter into wedlock his friends used that opportunity to celebrate the start of his new innings. There were nightlong celebrations that consisted of songs, dances and sumptuous feasts.Today, too this tradition continues. Both would be grooms and brides like to celebr. . .

Tips to Photographing Your Trophy Fish

When it comes to catch and release lakes, it is important for you to be ready to catch your fish, take a prize-winning shot and release your giant back into the water for others to enjoy. Before setting out on your trophy trout fishing trip with your fishing partner or guide, keep these few tips in mind. Bring along a good, reliable camera. It doesn't matter if it is digital or 35 mm, but make . . .

The 4 aspects of graphite shafts for golf clubs

Discount Golf Clubs - The 4 primary aspects of Graphite ShaftsIn the world of custom golf clubs, not every graphite shaft is created equal. In the pursuit of creating the ultimate tee weapon of mass construction, you can now spend anywhere from $5 to $500 on a new graphite shaft. But before you dole out these precious dollars, it is vitally important to know what you are buying. At TourPureGolf. . .

3 Easy Steps to Becoming a BackCountry Hero

Have you thought about helping to protect wildlife or wild flowers, but you don’t know how? Or maybe you want to protect your favorite camping site or that cool little stream nobody else knows about? Making a difference in the backcountry is easy for anyone – you don’t have to be Ted Turner. Not every one can fly to the Amazon delta to move bird nests or trek off to the Aleutian Islands to r. . .

Wooden Kayaks

Save money and look into building your own wooden kayaks.There are two major types of wooden kayaks: those you buy, and those you make for yourself. A lot of people have found that they enjoy the time spent working on their own wooden kayak. If you're one of those people, then you should definitely check online for how-to guides and other information about how to build your own kayak. If you're. . .

Sprint Kayaks

Sprint kayaks are harder to keep upright than regular kayaks.Sprint kayaks are the best type of kayaks for people who are intending to race. While you will probably not need to have your own kayak when you first start out (if you are racing on a school team of some type), eventually you will probably want to get your own sprint kayak that will highlight your particular skills and make it easier. . .

Inflatable Kayaks: Easy To Use And Light

Inflatable kayaks are generally a lot sturdier than most people would imagine. Generally the mental image that comes to mind when "inflatable kayak" is said is one that looks like an inflatable toy. However, this is far from the case and in fact, some of these inflatable kayaks can even be used for whitewater touring.There are a few benefits to inflatable kayaks that should probably be mentione. . .

New Year’s Resolutions for the BackCountry

The New Year has begun and you probably have a few New Year’s Resolutions under way. You’ll lose weight, lose a bad habit, add a good habit or even mend an old fence. But do you have any resolutions for the backcountry? Are you ready to make this year your best backcountry year? I’m ready. Here are a few of my backcountry New Year’s Resolutions; please adopt a couple of these for yourself.. . .

How A Piece Of Wood Changed World History

Many times someone doing something a little different and having his or her ideas catch on has changed history. The pasteurizing of milk to prevent spoiling and contamination is a perfect example. Snowboarding was also the result of someone doing something a little different. In a few short years we have taken a crazy idea and turned it into a household word and created a culture and language a. . .

Playing Ace-King in Texas Holdem

Everyone who plays Texas Holdem knows that Ace-King is one of the very best starting hands. But, it is just that, a starting hand. It’s only 2 cards of a 7 card equation. In nearly every situation, you want to come out firing with A-K as your hole cards. (The exception would be when faced with a big raise from an early position bettor.) When the flop comes, you need to reassess your hand and th. . .

Cold Water Diving

What to wear when practicing cold water diving.When practicing cold water diving, one of the main and most important things to have into account is which clothes to wear in order to keep warm. Keeping warm while diving in cold water is not as easy as it might sound since you must wear the proper clothes in order to be able not only to maintain your body temperature but at the same time keep you. . .

Camping Makes the Weekend Perfect

Do you have a weekend without anything to do or a weekend when you don’t want to do anything? I know what I’d do. I would pack up the truck and head for the woods. Sitting by a camp fire with your favorite people solves many problems, so you shouldn’t wait too long between fires. My favorite thing to do on a weekend is to camp. Are you looking for an easy way to camp? How about car campin. . .

Let There Be Light, Part 1 – The Camping Lantern

The only thing worse than setting up a tent in the rain is setting up a tent in the rain in the dark. That is a lesson I learned all too well while trying to set up camp in the middle of the night during a cold New England thunderstorm. Having the right camping lantern can be the difference between a camping trip you'll never forget and one you wish you could.A good camping lantern is usually o. . .

Alpine Snowboarding

Alpine snowboarding is for those of you who are a little more extreme about speed than most. Alpine snowboarding encompasses more than just speed. Other areas often included are racing and extreme carving. Alpine snowboards are uniquely designed for their purpose. An alpine snowboard has a longer, narrower and stiffer construction than any other snowboards. This design allows for higher speeds,. . .

Sony HD camcorder

The Sony HD camcorder, the Handycam HDR-FX1 is being marketed by the company as ‘world's first HDV 1080i consumer camcorder’. But at $3,700, it’s price tag is stretching the consumer label somewhat.However, there’s no doubt the the industry sees HD video as a consumer format and prices will come down over the next couple of years. This Sony HD camcorder is just the start of what is sure to be a. . .

A Choose Up Game - One of My Best Games

The teams were picked and the line ups were announced. I was batting third. I could not wait to hit. Hitting to me was like eating for a fat man with a tape worm. I lived for the experience. I knew even before I batted that I would get a hit. I was so young and cocky! After the first two guys on my team made outs, I strolled up to the plate, as confident as Babe Ruth - pointing to center field . . .

Oakland NJ - A Great Town For Kids

My children, my wife and I have been fortunate to have lived in the town of Oakland NJ, for the past 18 years. The commitment to kids sports programs, especially girls softball, I think would be hard to surpass by any other town this size. ( 14,000 - 15,000). I have seen many girls flourish in the Softball program, playing on traveling teams, and at the varsity level at our High School. Part of. . .

Four-Stroke Model Airplane Engines

The four-stroke glow or nitro engine is an elegant concept, though not as simple as its two-stroke counterpart. While there are many variations on the design, the basic elements remain unchanged. There is a piston moving back and forth in a cylinder, that turns a rotating crankshaft. There is a combustion event on every fourth stroke of the piston (at the beginning of every other down-stroke). . . .

An Easy Way to Become a Good Blackjack Player

Learning to play the game of casino Blackjack reasonably well is not rocket science, regardless of what the dozens of books on the subject would have you believe. Playing professionally at the expert level, as is true of any game, is indeed complex and takes years to perfect. But anyone can become a good recreational player and have a fighting chance against the casino simply by learning some v. . .

Who Invented The Game Of Golf ?

Well, who actually did invent the game of Golf? The question has been asked and argued for many years with no true winner. Many countries have a valid claim to an early game that resembles the game of golf. Some of the countries that make this claim are England. Scotland, China, Rome, France, The Netherlands, Belgium and Laos. The most heated debate over who invented golf definitely comes from . . .

Sports Betting as an Alternative Investment

Many will dismiss outright the ability to make good returns on your investment through the medium of sports betting. It is not really surprising as betting is hard work, solitary, and you have to grind out thousands of bets to get your returns. Of course to many members of society - betting also carries a great big "loser" tag. This is not without justification since the vast majority of sports. . .

Movie Poster Collecting

There is a great deal of history behind movie posters and movie poster collecting. Jules Cheret, who created 2 movie posters in the 1890’s, was the artist given credit for creating the first movie posters. By the end of the first decade of the 1900’s, movies had become a great source of public entertainment. In this time period, the movie poster would become a standard size known as the one she. . .

The Dead Drift

One of the most popular fly fishing techniques is called dead drift. Dead drifting is primarily done when fly fishing with nymphs, and are fishing slots, seams or smaller rivers. It is an effective technique that any fly fisher should have in their repotorie of fly fishing techniques. And is particularly effective, when nothing is happening on the surface of the water.When to Use ItDead driftin. . .

Coaching Sports For All The Right Reasons

The Glove It was during a March evening in 2002 that I received word that my grandfather was dying. I drove the four and a half hours to Ironwood, Michigan in a snowstorm to say goodbye. I was able to see my grandpa and he was able to recognize me and acknowledge that I was there.The next morning, he was gone. The doctors said that they were not sure how he had survived for so long. . . .

Sports Psychology and Performance Enhancement

Mental Game Coaching is that the segment of sports psychology that concentrates specifically on helping athletes break through the mental barriers that are keeping them from performing up to their peak potential. By focusing on the mental skills needed to be successful in any sporting competition, mental game coaching seeks to achieve the overall goal of performance improvement.Sports Psycholog. . .