NBA Lockout - Check Out What Is Next For NBA's Highest Paid Players

The Employment Outlook today is tough for many people. According to The United States Labor Department, the average medium yearly salary is anywhere from ,00 to ,000. Depending on where you live, and your occupation. With two adults working, it's just enough to pay the rent, cars, insurance etc. But what if you earned a multi-million dollar salary, like many of our professional athletes. The NBA Teams are in a battle, a game of tug of war. This battle is between The Owners, and The Players. There are no real rules, and neither side is budging, as the season is slowly slipping by. With pre-season games canceled, and no agreement, Commissioner Stern now has kept his promise to cancel the first two weeks of regular season play. All NBA games, now canceled until November 14. Los Angeles Lakers, Derek Fisher is the Players Union President, and has been quoted saying that, "the players are not playing basketball because we are on strike, we are not playing because, The Owners have locked us out." The 1998-1999 NBA season was reduced to only 50 games. This was a strike. An agreement was not reached until January 1999. This Lockout could be as long. Some are saying there may not be a season at all.

While most NBA players make million dollar salaries, not all can afford to go an entire year without a paycheck. Rashard Lewis, Kobe Bryant, Paul Gasol, are some of the highest paid players. Lewis has a contract that pays him 8 million over six years. While there are plenty of players that are close to the minimum salary of 3,000. With that said, NBA Players are still in a far better position than the thousands of hourly workers that depend on the NBA's 6-month season. They are the workers that are employed at the arenas. Security, ushers, parking lot attendants, and restaurant employees. Most arenas are surrounded by hotels and restaurants that depend upon the basketball patrons. Orlando Florida, may be home to Disney World, and a hot vacation spot, but Orlando will feel the pinch as well. Last minute details are stalled for the NBA's 2012 All Star Games. The Games, are set to be hosted by Orlando Magic in their new Amway Arena. The All Star Games cover an entire week of games and events mainly held at Amway. Final decisions may be on hold.

Nfl 2012

So what are some of the players doing? Le Bron James was spotted playing football at his old High School in Akron, St. Vincent-St. Mary's. James had been reported talking to The NFL. This is not true. Kobe Bryant has been linked to rumors that he may sign a contract in Italy. Many Fans really do not have much sympathy for the Players or Owners. Together they provide a great and exciting basketball season, but to be unable to come to an agreement may be a matter of greed. Many people are asking, How did the salaries of professional athletes get so out of hand?

The NBA players are employees of their respective teams, and owners. So why, you may ask, do they want 53% of all ticket revenues? A 50/50 split is not good enough. They want to make more than their bosses. Overpaid players cut into franchise profits, and hurt the basketball business as a whole. Wizard Rashard Lewis was quoted as saying that. " I'm willing to sacrifice my salary to get a fair deal". In summary, both parties do agree on one fact. Nobody will be making any money, if nobody is playing basketball. It will be interesting to see the final results, and if we will learn anything from this.

NBA Lockout - Check Out What Is Next For NBA's Highest Paid Players

Anita is a Professional Exercise Consultant, and Life Coach. A Certified Fitness Trainer, and a Former National Bodybuilding Champion, who has been in the Fitness Industry for over 20 years. She uses her expertise to conduct fitness clinics and seminars to assist others to work towards their healthy lifestyle goals.

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Did Wisconsin Voters Shoot Themselves In The Foot?

The trials and tribulations of the Badger State continue to grow as its chances for an economic recovery become less likely. A shift in politic power resulted from the November elections. The promise was to lift Wisconsin out of debt, not raise personal taxes and make it an attractive place for business; but this has turned into a disaster. The fallout from this situation is likely to hurt the taxpayers of the state for years to come.

The new administration in Madison was faced with a multi-billon dollar deficit. It took steps to address the short-term problem of attracting new business to the state and encourage existing companies to hire by offering them tax incentives. Concurrently, the long-term issue of public employee salaries, benefits and pensions was also addressed. Since Wisconsin has one of the country's most lucrative teacher compensation packages, that's where the legislators began.

Super Bowl 2012

Wisconsin quickly became national news, because it is seen as a battleground state in the 2012 elections and the unions see their power in the public sector being challenged, and their political influence diminished. Unions have already been marginalized in the private sector, with less than 7% of workers belonging to these organizations.

Unions, both private and public, shipped people to the state capital to demonstrate and disrupt the legislation process while state senators from the minority party fled to Illinois to avoid voting on what they believed to be controversial legislation. They returned to their jobs after the bill was adjusted and passed. But a judge ruled against the new law and it is on hold as the legislation makes its way through the state's legal system.

Fearing the legislation will ultimately be decided by the state Supreme Court, currently ruled by a 4-3 majority that may uphold the legislation, unions mounted an effort to oust an incumbent judge and change the balance of power. This coincided with a statewide election in early April. There was a record turnout, but only a narrow margin separated the two candidates. A recount is next. At the same time, 16 state senators from both parties are facing recall elections. There is no suggestion of stability in the state, which is not encouraging for business or the residents.

Activists are feeling triumphant though some may not realize their efforts just sabotaged the state's future. This may not bother the unions, because they have kept the anti-government union sentiment from spreading. Although Ohio has just passed more stringent legislation, Wisconsin has remained in the forefront of the news.

When Illinois raised taxes this prompted Wisconsin to claim it was the business friendly state. With the unions showing new-found power, this notion will fade away and companies may consider Indiana, Ohio and others as better places to build plants and hire workers. So the unions have won the battle but may well lose the war in Wisconsin. As businesses move on to other parts of the country, the people of the Cheese State will have little to be happy about aside from being the home of this year's Super Bowl winner.

Did Wisconsin Voters Shoot Themselves In The Foot?

Don Potter is a Philadelphia native and 50 year veteran of the advertising agency business. Now living in Los Angeles, he has written two novels in retirement and frequently writes and speaks on marketing issues. Potter is the founder and editor-in-chief of NewSeniors.com, the first online magazine dedicated to those 65+.

NewSeniors.com articles provide thoughts, comments and opinions designed to spark thinking, foster discussion and stimulate debate. The editorial content features general news and information as well as videos of interest to the burgeoning 65+ audience. A touch of nostalgia is also included. Learn more by logging on to http://www.NewSeniors.com

20/20 Cricket, Good for the Game

When 20/20 cricket was introduced by the ICC (International Cricket Council) to the cricketing world many a die-hard test match and one day cricket fan believed it would do more harm than good and it was not 'real cricket'.

Cricket is by nature a game of patience and endurance in test match form, but it is also a spectator sport. To many people test matches are boring, and although one day matches are fun they are just too long for some people. For this reason the new form of the game was developed.

Super Bowl 2012

20/20 cricket has revived the sport brining, perhaps, a more jubilant and younger crowd to watch a flurry of sixes and fours and run rates of seven to eight runs per over. Furthermore, with the advent of the ICC 20/20 world cup known as the 'ICC World 20/20', which was first held in 2007, and the Indian Premier League - sporting teams like the Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians with players from all around the world who normally play against each other playing as team mates (what a spectacle) - many people who had never before watched cricket are now fanatical supporters.

Despite the purists fears people still support test matches and one day games - now there is just more variety. Furthermore, it has brought in much-needed funds to the game and showed just how fast teams can score if they put their mind to it.

Stadiums are now normally packed to capacity for one day's and twenty-twenty games; and test matches are still seen as the purest form of the game.

The next ICC World 20/20 competition is to be held in 2012. Whether you are a religious cricket supporter or know nothing about the game, be sure not to miss it or at least give it a try. You will be bowled over for sure!

20/20 Cricket, Good for the Game

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Profiling Georgia State University's Inaugural Football Season

The Georgia State University Panthers kicked off their inaugural football season this fall. After more than two years of preparation, the Panthers played their first football game on September 2 against Shorter College. The hard work paid off as Georgia State easily won that game 41-7.

The Panther's head coach, Atlanta native Bill Curry, was hired in June 2008. He has spent the past two years developing and directing every aspect of the football program. Curry has a long history of successful coaching at the college level. He is the former head coach at Georgia Tech, Alabama, and Kentucky. In 1985 Curry was named the ACC Coach of the Year. In 1989 he was the SEC Coach of the Year. Curry was also named the Bobby Dodd National Coach of the Year in 1989. Curry had a distinguished professional football career, playing a total of ten years for Green Bay, Baltimore, Houston, and Los Angeles. He was an NFL All Pro center, and played in two Pro Bowls and three Super Bowls. He began his college coaching career in 1980 at his alma mater, Georgia Tech.

Super Bowl 2012

The Panthers are playing in NCAA Division I. Their home games are played at the Georgia Dome. In 2012 Georgia State expects to be admitted to the Colonial Athletic Association Conference. Their 2010 schedule includes seven home games and four away games.

The opening game win over Shorter College was impressive. The Panther's had 366 total offensive yards in the game. Their second game was a 14-23 loss to Lambuth. Two interceptions late in the game hurt the Panthers. The third game was a 27-34 loss to Jacksonville State in overtime. Their fourth game was an exciting 24-21 win over Campbell. A 30 yard field goal with one second left on the clock put the Panther's on top. Their record thus far is 2-2. The October 2 game is Homecoming. Their opponent, Morehead State, also has a 2-2 record.

Georgia State University's main campus is located in downtown Atlanta. The university was founded in 1913, and has a student enrollment of over 30,000 students. The university offers 55 degree programs at the bachelors, masters, specialist, and doctoral level. Georgia State is the leading urban research institution in the Southeast. Join with Panther fans and alumni as they cheer their new football team on to victory.

Profiling Georgia State University's Inaugural Football Season

About this Author

Debbie Wells is the Director of Sales for Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Airport North Hotel. This Atlanta Airport hotel is located only 1 mile north of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and provides complimentary 24-hour Atlanta airport hotel shuttle service. Guests will truly love this Atlanta airport hotel's amenities and their location.

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Top 2012 NFL Rookies That Will Make the Quickest Fantasy Impact

As always the NFL draft has come and gone and now its time to see which rookies will have a significant impact on fantasy football this year. At first glance the group doesn't seem as promising as usual, but if you delve a little deeper into the teams you might be surprised about the potential of this years rookie class. We've picked the top 5 rookies and even thrown a couple of sleepers in for those of you that like to take chances in the later rounds.

Julio Jones, WR - Atlanta Falcons

Nfl 2012

The Falcons traded up for Jones and for good reason, he is going to be a key piece to what is already a potent offense in Atlanta. With opposing defenses having to worry about Roddy White, Tong Gonzalez and Micheal Turner you can expect some big games out of Jones. The Alabama star is 6'4" and 200lb plus, but still has the speed to make game changing plays down the field.

Daniel Thomas, RB - Dolphins

The Dolphins have already made Thomas their starting running back for the 2011-2012 NFL season. With no other quality back on the team, you can expect him to pick up the majority of the carries. His running style fits perfectly with Miami's balanced offense, so you can expect to see some decent numbers out of Thomas. He did have nagging injuries in college but if can avoid the injury bug, you might be able to get yourself a number three back for a steal in the later rounds.

Austin Pettis, WR - Rams

Pettis was an integral part of those great Boise State teams over the past few years and should continue to be a difference maker in the very near future. The Rams were a much improved team last year without a true #1 wide receiver, so it makes sense that Pettis could develop into one of Bradford's favorite targets. Let's not forget that the Ram's play in the NFC West, which gives them 6 games against sub par teams. This fact alone potentially allows for some quality numbers throughout the season.

A.J. Green, WR - Bengals

Green is a tough pick here because no one is sure who is going to be throwing to him, with Carson Palmer more than likely done as a Bengal that leaves rookie QB Andy Dalton or Jordan Palmer. A.J. Green has the ability to be a big time receiver in the NFL but with two untested QB's throwing to him, it doesn't bode well for him. Though, if the Bengals can get any semblance of quarterback play this year, Green will be worth a good look.

Mark Ingram, RB - Saints

Ingram is another hard pick here because he will be in the mix with at least two other proven runners, Pierre Thomas and Chris Ivory. He will need to show that he is substantially better than those two if he is going to get a significant amount of carries in New Orleans. On the plus side both the backs that are in front of him are very injury prone and could open the door for Ingram to be the number one guy on a proven high octane offense.

Sleepers

Shane Vereen, RB - Patriots

New England would only have one decent option at running back in Danny Woodhead if Green-Ellis leaves like expected. If Vereen's quickness and receiving skills are up to snuff, fantasy owners might see some significant numbers out of him. Then again there is always the chance the Patriots sign 3 veteran running backs and you don't see Vereen all season.

Delone Carter, RB - Colts

The Colts have decided to work on their running game this off season in order to protect Manning. Last year teams abandoned their running attack because it was simply nonexistent when they tried. By drafting an offensive line early and getting Carter in what some people consider a steal, could prove well for fantasy owners that are willing to take a chance on the rookie. With Addai looking to walk and Donald Brown not exactly putting up the numbers the Colts want, Carter is likely to see the bulk of the carries. However if Addai stays or Brown proves more consistent, he might be regulated to the 3 back, taking away any fantasy value he might have.

Top 2012 NFL Rookies That Will Make the Quickest Fantasy Impact

Kurt Pugh II is the co-founder of http://XtremeFantasyLeagues.com LLC and http://MMAXtremeFantasy.com, a U.S. based fantasy Sports Company that provides leagues in Football, MMA, Baseball, and Basketball. They offer the first ever stat based fantasy MMA leagues as well as weekly and playoff football challenges. The leagues offer some of the largest cash prizes and quickest payouts on the web. Sign up for a league now at XtremeFantasyLeagues.com and MMAXtremeFantasy.com. You can also find them on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

About the Promenada Chiang Mai Mall

A third Chiang Mai Mall is planned to open in 2012 but will not be anything similar to the other existing malls. A team of property developers, designers and landscape artists has created one of the most unique and exciting resort malls in the world. The concept is unique; design an open-air environment where shopping, entertainment and dining are provided. Top it off with an anchor grocery super store and you have a great arena for area residents and tourists alike.

The Architecture

Super Bowl 2012

Merging an indoor facility with nature was challenging but the designers on this project were driven to make it happen. The open outdoor space flows naturally into an interior filled with waterfalls, trees and natural beauty. Separated with wide glass windows and skylights, the cultural décor represents a rich and earthy tone while highlighting the fantastic tropical value. Without the confines of straight, bleak walls, the open concept of sharing space with nature abounds in every corner.

What you will find

People of all ages will be benefit from the features of this new Chiang Mai mall. Children can play and learn in the kids centre, watch movies at the cinema or bowl with friends at the 20-lane Strike Bowl. Karaoke and a Skate Park will intrigue teens and the open-air theatre always has shows. The finest cuisine can be found for dining and the huge, wide-open spaces allow you to relax or visit with friends under the bright tropical skies. Shopping is an experience never before seen by residents with selections that were unavailable until now. Designer clothes, the latest in worldly fashions and accessories are turning Thailand into a paradise of modernization.

Chiang Mai Mall Layout

Three levels extend over 91,951 m2 and are organized into zones where interests are divided into their own specific section. The ground floor offers edutainment, food and drinks, home decoration, convenience and services and beauty and health areas. The first floor is filled with sports products, a gourmet market, fashion clothes, shoes and beauty products. On the top level you will find entertainment and multimedia, books and banking services. The Chiang Mai Mall is designed to make your visit uncomplicated while presenting an overall positive appeal.

The Promenada Chiang Mai Mall is directly located off of the 6-lane main road that links the 2nd Ring Road to the Super Highway. Two entrances with close U-turn availability make getting in and out of the Chiang Mai Mall smooth and convenient. Parking is never a problem with over 1200 slots for your vehicle. Set in an area that supports both residential and commercial interests, the grounds bring out the best in both. The team that put together this beautiful complex that seems a tropical aesthetic city of its own has hit on all facets of visitors. With Thailand becoming a booming country and the potential for even more growth, the intricate space and layout of the Chiang Mai Mall will easily accept growing needs in the future.

About the Promenada Chiang Mai Mall

For more information visit Chiang Mai Mall.

An Introduction to the 49ers SF

The San Francisco 49ers, also known as the 49ers SF, the Niners , The Red and Gold or Bay Bombers are a professional American football team based in California. The team is a part of the Western Division of the National Football Conference. The 49ers SF, who started playing as a charter team of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1946, became a member of the NFL with the merging of the AAFC into the NFL.

The team, which has had some of the best runs in football history, specially in the 1980s and 90s , has been going through a bad patch in its history since the year 2002, losing against weaker teams, having poor playing spells and being dogged by controversies both within and outside the club. However, the team still has a major fan following, owing to its past successes which include five Super Bowl victories, five NFC championships and seventeen Division championships wins. The San Francisco 49ers are the only NFL team, apart from the Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers to have won the Super Bowl a record five times. On top of this, the Niners have also been responsible for giving American football some of its greatest heroes like Steve Young, Joe Montana, Jerry Rice and Ronnie Lott.

Nfl 2012

Ever since their inception in 1946, the San Francisco 49ers have been based in San Francisco, playing all their home matches in San Francisco while having their club and practice sessions in Santa Clara. Unlike most football teams, the team has retained its first and only name, which is reminiscent of the California gold rush of 1849.

The 49ers had always been a mediocre team from the 40s till the end of the 70s, winning some matches while losing even more and their exploits were nothing much to either inspire a great fan following or to write home about. However, all this changed in the 1980s, when the team managed to win four Super Balls in one decade. Not only this, they missed the playoffs only twice during these ten years. It was during these golden years that the team also threw up a number of superbly talented players like receiver and quarterback Joe Montana, receiver Dwight Clark and running back Earl Cooper.

As of late, apart from being mired in a number of controversies ranging from long drawn out battles over ownership to leaking out of non public training videos, the team also has not been making any great waves in the championships arena. The last and most recent brick in the wall has been the team's proposed move to Santa Clara for playing their games also. Around the end of the year 2006, negotiations that were on between the 49ers SF and the city of San Francisco regarding the building of a privately funded stadium came to an end with the 49ers management pulling out of the deal due to undisclosed reasons and deciding to move to Santa Clara for good. Last heard, plans were afoot to build a state of the art playing facility in Santa Clara, to be completed by the year 2012. This decision of the team management has delivered a further blow to 49ers SF fans in San Francisco.

An Introduction to the 49ers SF

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