Friday, December 13, 1996

Cowboys take it on the chin at home

By the Associated Press (Dec. 13, 1996)

DALLAS (AP) - If the Dallas Cowboys can somehow manage another Super Bowl victory, the City Council has OK'd another downtown victory celebration.

But not without some serious grumbling that reflects how drug suspensions and other off-the-field problems have drained enthusiasm for America's Team - even in its home city.

Council members on Wednesday authorized "a major sports celebration" between Jan. 27 and Feb. 9 should the Cowboys bring home their fourth Super Bowl title in five years.

For last year's parade, the city kicked in about $15,000 of the total $300,000 tab. Corporate sponsors paid the majority.

Council member Max Wells, citing the Cowboys' well-documented troubles with the law and the NFL, said that money would be better spent fighting crime or fixing streets.

"A parade for the Irving Cowboys, with its current reputation ... I don't care if they win two Super Bowls this year, I don't want us to spend any money on another parade," Wells said.

The Cowboys have been hit with NFL drug suspensions seven times over the past two years. No other team has had more than two suspensions in that time.

Leon Lett, the team's best defensive player, was suspended for a year last week after testing positive for cocaine. Earlier this year, star receiver Michael Irvin served a suspension after pleading no contest to cocaine possession.

"We may have to have the Police Department help us with some of the floats," said council member Craig McDaniel. "Because some of the players and dignitaries may be riding in paddy wagons."

Such planning is likely premature. The Cowboys are leading the NFC East with a 9-5 record, but lackluster play has left some fans doubtful of another championship.

Said Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk: "I don't know that I'm real worried about us having to plan a parade."