First Down

He said what?

"This means a lot to me because I did it the right way, and I've busted my butt since college. I always worked hard in that weight room to be strong." — Frank Thomas on his 500th home run

TONIGHT'S BEST BET ON TELEVISION

This isn't a punt, kick and pass competition. In the NFL Cheerleader Playoffs (NFL Network, 9 p.m.), each team's cheerleading squad will be represented by two members competing head-to-head.

TWT FIVE " THINGS TO DO ON JULY 4

1. AT&T National: Watch former President George H.W. Bush as he takes the ceremonial first shot at 11:30 a.m. tomorrow.

2. Nationals-Cubs at RFK Stadium at 12:05 p.m.: Who can resist a George Washington bobblehead? It's the best free thing you can get on Independence Day.

3. July 4 BBQ: Nothing is more embarrassing than seeing your dad attempt a belly flop in the swimming pool. But he will do it anyway. Make a contest out of whose dad performs the worst.

4. C&O Canal: Since 1971, this has been a great place for biking, canoeing or running.

5. Great Falls Park: A hike at this 800-acre park provides great views of the Potomac River.

TAKE YOUR PICK " BARRY BONDS, ALL-STAR?

1. Why he should be in next Tuesday's game: Apparently the fans have spoken. It is mystifying, however, given that most media polls say fans don't want him to break Hank Aaron's career home run record.

2. Why he shouldn't be: Bonds may not have been convicted in a court of law regarding steroid use, but public opinion and published reports have branded him. No one knows for sure, but if the league had cooperated more with George Mitchell's investigation, fans might not be in this predicament.

Best Choice: It would be neither productive nor democratic for Major League Baseball to prevent him from playing. And because the All-Star Game is in San Francisco, it obviously wouldn't go over well there.

What's your pick? E-mail mmedina@washingtontimes.com and we'll publish a response next week.