Body piercing is ancient and according to Ted Polhemus "arguably the most widespread of all the permanent (semi-permanent) body arts" (Polhemus 1996). The names and origins of all the types of piercings now practised is a subject covered in more depth in other publications such as Eye of the Needle or Modern Primitives. However, it is worth noting some facts to provide background.       more..

1. Leave the stick in your 150 degree car trunk, and all the glue joints fall apart and the inlays pop out.       more..

Practice each of the following steps as individual steps. Once you master each step, you will be on your way to playing pool      more..

What the hell is wrong with me? How did I miss that shot? Why do I always have a problem cutting a ball to the right and not the left? What"s wrong with my eyes? Does any of the above sound familiar? Has any on ever told you that you put English on the ball and you thought you were shooting center?       more..

As important as your bridge, grip and stance are, your game will ultimately be determined by the quality of your stroke. A winning pool stroke should be straight, smooth, fluid and consistent.      more..

The "Ladies" Aid." The "crutch." The mechanical bridge. The object of score and ridicule. When, in truth, the mechanical bridge is a very useful instrument. Using it is not a sign of "effeminate" weakness, but intelligence, self-assuredness and playing to win.      more..

Open Rail Bridge is the most effective bridge when the cue ball is frozen to, or less than three inches off the rail. In this bridge, the hand should be flattened, with the heel of the hand slightly raised.      more..

While the closed bridge can be used in about 90% of your shots, there are certain shots (i.e., shots close to the rail, stretch shots, shooting over an object ball) in which an open bridge is far more effective.      more..

The closed bridge is used by virtually every professional player. It allows superior control of the cue, which leads to better control of the cue ball. Any shot that requires something extra to be exerted on the cue ball (i.e., draw, follow, speed, etc.) is best served by a closed bridge.       more..

The difference between a good and an average pool player can often be traced to their respective hand bridges. When it comes to accuracy, nothing is more important than the firmness and steadiness of a player"s bridge.       more..