Archives---December, 2004
December 31, 2004
...Buddy Swartzberg, my friend and the father of my best friend Bill, passed away Thursday. He was 80. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Swartzberg family as they face this most difficult of times. His loss is incalculable, but Buddy's legacy is firmly ensconced. He and his devoted spouse of 50 years, Lorinda who we lost last year, begat an entire MENSA chapter---one of whom who has enriched my life beyond explanation. He will be missed so very much---the old jokes, the curiosity of every aspect of the universe and knowing when Montana was admitted to the union. Rest well my friend---you done good. As of this writing, no formal arrangements have been determined.
December 30, 2004
...The home page lives! The only element lacking are the Google ads that have fetched an eye popping $1.18 to date. Needless to say, this incredible profit center should be up and running again soon.
...The 20th ranked mighty fighting Colonials winning streak is halted at eight, with a loss last night to undefeated West Virginia in Morgantown. Tough break, but a good warm up for A-10 play that begins next week---more specifically, La Salle January 5 at the Smith Center in DC.
...CORRECTION---Yolanda admonishes that President Bush did indeed refer to disaster aid as U.S. taxpayer money in a question during yesterday's news conference. Good for him, but the bigger point remains in play----government doesn't produce anything, it only takes wealth from individuals who earn/create it.
...It would appear as though my prognostication about baseball in DC will be proven correct. While I'm certain I would have more problems with the DC city council than that of Atlanta, I cannot disagree with the principle of not using tax payer dollars to build sports venues for private use. Regardless, baseball returns to nation's capital, which the prognostication said it would despite the infighting. Its the 8th largest media market in the country, dwarfing any other that is without a MLB franchise. But, of course, the big pay off will be the opportunity to catch a game at RFK 38 years after my first visit to a big league ball park (then DC Stadium).
...Falcon playoff tickets went on sale this morning.??? Given the greatly enlarged season ticket base and set asides for the league for a playoff game, I'm shocked that there are any seats available. Word has it some tickets remain for most of the Hawks remaining schedule.
...Surely there are some folks in Boston or Saskatchewan crying in their beer over the NHL lockout, but I've yet to hear from or about any. It will be missed when what would have been playoff time comes around, but excepting our manager/bartender buddy up the street at Sangria's, even my hockey crazed peers have had little to say or lament about the current situation. Again, I am not at all convinced that the NHL will ever return in a form with which we had become accustomed.
December 29, 2004
...A poor command of the language allows for no more cogent comment on the devastation visited upon the Pacific rim. For perspective, a quick review of recorded history's natural disasters will put this in the top ten all time. A flood in China in the 30's took nearly 4 million, so the record remains intact, and though the markets seem unfazed, the long term economic fall out from these very productive emerging markets will be years in the fixing. Also, while it seems like a poor time to quibble---memo to President Bush: the United States government isn't funding any relief. The taxpayers of the United States are funding the relief, and, in almost every instance, glad to do so. Just a friendly reminder that its not their money.
...Jerry Orbach spent almost as much time in my living room as those who dwell here. Consequently the unexpected announcement of his death this morning was most sobering indeed. First, my guess was that he was older than 69 and, second, the aggressive nature of his prostate cancer is most disturbing. He leaves a legacy of many things, but good TV should be near the top of the list. Few have such an entry on their resume.
...Still can't play with the homepage....The DUFFLE Bowl marquee notwithstanding, its a pretty static page and shows up just fine while surfing so there is little distress, just the need to hone my html skills.
...If using The Dictators meter, 2004 was not the best of years. We got one 5 song set in August (which of course we missed in the Haj Impossible/Abu, Dude, Where's My Car saga) and six sets by Master Plan near or above the Arctic Circle. But there is hope on the horizon, with my gracious spouse presenting me with tickets to see Elvis Costello at the Tabernacle in March---an event most worthy of great anticipation, given the dearth of talent that hits Atlanta. The MSA is over 5 million people and we get four Styx and an Eagles show. The only show on the horizon is Nashville Pussy at the Echo Lounge, but its New Year's Eve---making it a no go. We have venues. We have people. Could we please get a few decent acts through here? As to The Dictators in 2005, we do expect the live CD to be released this spring, but the chances of actually playing a gig appear dim at best.
December 27, 2004
...Work for Comair? Wanna get away? Wanna ask me again about my fear of flying? No, not the plane auguring into the ground kind of fear---rather the dread of getting to the freakin aircraft!
...My heart goes out to the lad whose Redskin loving heart was broken yesterday evening---the conclusion of a horrible weekend with hideous family, whose only saving grace was, though meaningless in the bigger scheme, the rivalry game with the hated Cowboys. You have now had your Clint Longley moment, and now my son, you are a man. Maybe we do have to take a hard look a Uncle Joe, noting Bobby Bethard is no where in sight. Redskin fans are much like the current owner and those who play golf---we'll buy anything in the hope of improvement---"tie these ropes around your legs and take five strokes off your game."
...Congratulations to Deidre Martin, whose Demandra-Dons, with two players yet to go tonight, has clinched DUFFLE Bowl III! Now everyone settle up with the champion/treasurer---including this household that owes a total of $10 or so. The engraving and transfer of the DUFFLE Cup/Elvis has yet to be arranged. Speaking of whom, Yo advises there is a pic of soon to be former neighbor (and current Cup holder) Bill and Allison's new place in the hills. Look forward to posting it and more info about the store soon.
...Instead of a list of the most... of 2004, some idle thoughts as they occur. Is it more than possible that the genuine public outpouring at the death and funeral of Ronald Reagan cemented the re-election of W? Its sort of like the story about John Connolly's trial, but the bottom line is that it solidified the "red" folk, and be it good, bad or indifferent (I'm partial to the latter) the red folk can whoop the blue folk every day of the week and twice on Sunday.
...The Dow has four days to jump 150 more points to reach 11,000. Much closer than I would have thought.
December 26, 2004
...For those who didn't catch the final score during the holiday rush GW prevailed over Florida International Thursday to push the winning streak to eight. Next stop Morgantown---not a hospitable venue to say the least.
...Given that I am home page impaired at present, I cannot affect changes to the marquee showing current DUFFLE Bowl III results. Deidre rode the Dante express to break out with 34 big Cat points and a 34-0 lead going into today's action. In the other Yahoo winners league, I'm holding my own in the finals, going with Aaron Brooks today over Greise or Carr. It could prove the deciding factor of whether I claim my fourth consecutive Yahoo public league title, the last three being winners leagues (open only to those who won their league the previous year).
December 25, 2006
...Completed, done, over, finished---its outta here for another year, sans some clean/put up. All seemed to do exceedingly well as best personal interaction of the telephone will provide in the intelligence department. More details later, not doubt, but hope your own particular ordeal went as you wished. And now the glory of Amateur Night I falling on a weekend, plus the looming meteorologically ominous first week of January and Suttle World moves proudly forward to close out 2004 and ring in the new year.
December 22, 2004
...Reckon its a good thing that there isn't any more editing I wish to affect on the home page. As noted, it looks pretty much like I planned (yeah, I know its slow---worth the wait), but adding the html code messed up the wyswyg FrontPage file. Alas...
...Second verse continues much as the first---like clockwork, Ridge's Christmas stuff arrived via the good folks at UPS shortly after his departure yesterday. Regardless, he made the journey and is firmly ensconced with Dad and family in Gordon County for the holidays. He also took advantage of the opportunity to pick up a few bucks working as we baby sat the law office while the denizens reveled at their seasonal soiree.
...While in the kin folk department, Suttle World is issuing an official Mel Tillis memorial Stammer Alert---The missing subject is one niece, a 19 year old white female, approximately five feet five inches tall, petite build, attractive with long blond hair. Last know sighting on or about the Hawaiian Islands. Christmas plans still unknown. Should you see this person, please immediately go up side her head then ask her to contact her aunt and/or email with details. That is all.
...Plans remain intact for a quick visit to the western North Carolina satellite office this afternoon--returning before dark tomorrow to commemorate Christmas eve at stately Roberts/Suttle Manor. An informal Atlanta area Roberts family gathering is planned for Christmas afternoon. Now the gentle surfer can relax in the knowledge of everyone's tedious schedule.
...GW gets Florida International tonight in Miami---seems like an awfully tough game for which to maintain focus, but wins like this keep one playing deep into March.
December 22, 2004
...Well, yea the home page is a rather pleasant seasonal change of pace. If the changes just hadn't completely ruined my Frontpage file on this end...Alas, a fairly quick fix I assume and since it still publishes (sans date), the gentle surfer need only indulge as Suttle World frantically attempts to return to our regularly scheduled programming.
...Nephew Ridge appeared to enjoy the assemblage and accoutrement of his pre-Christmas tidings of yesterday evening. Perhaps they would have been enhanced with a bit more timely shipping, but it gives the chap something to look forward upon his return from Gordon Country in early '05.
...Its the holidays and you've got some time on your hands. Email me and please advise as to how the decade is to be referred. I get the teens, seventies, roaring twenties, et al, but have no idea, nor anyone else I've asked as to how we are to refer the decade in which we presently find ourselves. The oh's? The oughts? The zeros? Its not as though the issue hasn't been confronted before. Any and all thoughts are welcome. Speaking of that whole space time continuum thing, we welcome the beginning of Mr. Sun's voyage home with yesterday's passing of the winter solstice. Feel free to stand eggs on end and dance naked in the moonlight in designated areas.
December 21, 2004
...Amazing the number of folks effected physically and fiscally by non steroidal anti inflammatory compounds. Suttle World is on the case, investigating what could prove to be lynch pin information---word has it there is no non pharmaceutical industry research indicating a statistically significant difference with regard to gastro-intestinal problems between Vioxx/Celebrex and over the counter meds (ibuprofen). If, in fact, these prescription meds aren't any easier on your gut than Advil, the possibility of long term cardiac problems become secondary to the bucks folks are forking out for these drugs.
...Most shipping duties completed yesterday without incident. Much to my surprise, the local UPS Store was sans customers to speak of. I then found myself the only one in line returning an item to a local mega merchant, while subsequently affecting a few last minute in-house purchases in similar fashion---amazing! The arrivals are coming fast and furious as well. Brown delivered couple to give items, while the good folks at the Post Office brought welcome cards and gifts from Carolina kin folk.
...Speaking of Carolina, Yolanda and I plan to make a brief visit to Suttle World's western North Carolina satellite office later this week. We're a bit surprised by the lack of traffic through the area, but have yet to hear any complaints regarding same. Christmas comes tonight here for Ridge as he returns to Calhoun Wednesday to spend the holidays with his dad. Various members of the Roberts clan are expected this evening for the festivities at stately Roberts/Suttle Manor.
December 20, 2004
... 
Bowl III is set: Deidre v. Brent. There are a couple
Monday night players still out, but they cannot affect the semi-final's
outcome. Nearly 300 big cat dollars on the table for the winner of NFL
Week 16, a four day affair over the holiday.
...The terms/concepts of Atlanta, December and 18 degrees are not congruent. Still here we have yet another blast of homemade cold, causing Mr. Gas Meter to whirl at a furious pace. Were I younger, better looking with good teeth and a really spiffy sport coat to match, I'd call it the "polar express" or "Siberian blow" or some other pithy term. But lacking those endearing qualities to any great degree, I shall settle on the original assessment of the ambient temperature being considerably lower than the desired level.
...While I have yet to fully evaluate the Braves move of last week, I remain certain that my phone continues silent with General Manager job offers. Uncle John has done a rather worthy job of moving folks around, if you count 12 straight division titles; so I reckon he done good per usual. Just hate to see Charles Thomas go. I really did want the kid to move into my house. He's a five skill guy with hustle and much greater insight into the game than the average bear. He should have a brilliant major league career.
...Jingle this.
December 19, 2004
semi final partial scores are tallied for one game that saw
considerable action during the Saturday NFL extravaganza. Clay takes the
early lead over Deidre 28-17 with 5 and six players to go,
respectively. Check the home page for regular updates through Sunday's
NFL action. Notable, is the Pittsburg defense bringing a single point to
the party---very different than one might have thought against the seemingly
lowly Giants.
...Having issued a pardon on my self imposed life sentence of ambivalence about the Falcons since the Blank era, I can cheerfully shown to be wrong my take on last nights contest. Though I never maintained consciousness to witness overtime, Atlanta found a way to win and continues to be a real playoff threat given the Vick factor on any given Sunday.
...19th ranked GW had little trouble in disposing of Townson State yesterday afternoon 85-69. The Colonials travel to Miami to take on Florida International Thursday. Then its a trip to Morgantown to face West Virginia (a very difficult place to win) Dec. 29 and A-10 play begins after the first of the year.
...Gee that Calgary/Ottawa game last night was compelling hockey. Just can't get enough of that great NHL action. Given the TV numbers, the general public would seem to agree.
...President Bush makes Time "Person of the Year." Not exactly a cause for debate, but rather a default judgment. The election was the story of the year, and W won, ergo... Given the president's agenda for his second term, it would be more gratifying were he to make the same cover in four years: George W. Bush, the man who stood before the IRS and said, "Mr. Congressman, tear down this building." The man who went before the American public and explained that Social Security is basically a Ponzi scheme . The man who recognized the economic hardship medical costs can place on some people, and that the best way to alleviate those hardships is to introduce greater market forces into the health care industry...OK its never going to happen, but if a little headway can be made on one of those fronts, there will remain the hope of long term economic viability in the generally pleasant nation state in which we now dwell.
December 18, 2004
...I'm just sitting here watching the ads go round and round...now I'm Dreidels R Us and pimping Sox gear. You folks are doing a mediocre job at best in visiting these fine sponsors, but its appreciated nonetheless. To date, Google is now in debt to me to the tune of 78¢ or so.
...For those not keeping score at home, the mighty fighting Colonials of GWU have moved up to #19 in the latest AP poll going into this weekend's thriller at home versus Townson. The really cool thing is that most of the remainder of the schedule features opponents of similar caliber, save Dayton, Xavier, St Joe's, Temple and Richmond on the road. If you can manage to split with each of these conference foes, the RPI should smile upon GW.
...Its typically pretty cool this time of year when the NFL tosses a few games your way on Saturday. Unfortunately, despite the addition of a third contest, this year offers little in entertainment value. Webster has now officially placed the New York Giants logo adjacent to the word "suck"; and as much as I love my Redskins, its going to be tough to hold my interest this afternoon as they battle the mighty 49ers. This is all a prelude for the never ready for prime time Falcons. Carolina is pretty awful (injuries and all), but they're kinda hot right now. Add that to having a division title locked up and federal regulations requiring the Falcons to choke in night games, and the predictable result is expected.
December 17, 2004
...Mostly quiet during the festive holiday season, Suttle World and the Tucker Stalag breaks radio silence to bring you this news alert. Paul Edward Parker Thomas Franklin Grant Newton Jefferson Napoleon Caesar Waring IV is quickly gaining the interest of scouts nationwide with swoops to the hoop as pictured here. In the photograph the young Waring, in a single jump, surpassed the lifetime cumulative vertical leap of his dear old dad. Amazing.
...
playoff action begins Saturday with two semi-final games leading
up to DUFFLE Bowl III Christmas weekend. Brent, Clay, Deidre and defending
champion Bill are the participants. With the coveted DUFFLE
Cup (still a shitty name) and, about $300 on the line for the winner,
expectations are for an exciting post season. Given no agreement was ever
made about assigning future draft positions, the "losers" bracket is
moot.
December 12, 2004
...So Matt Leinart wins the Heisman Trophy. No doubt folks in Utah, Boise and Auburn were on the edge of their seats awaiting the decision.
...#21GW started slow, but held on to defeat a formidable St Francis team 79-65 last night to push their record to 6-1.
...Congratulations to Valdosta State as they win the NCAA Division II championship over Pittsburg State yesterday afternoon. "Winnersville" can add another trophy to a fairly impressive collection. In addition to the high school football dynasty, VSU also has a women's basketball title and several baseball championships to their credit.
...Another shooting over night in Buckhead. Obviously, the city needs to close bars at 7:00pm and all this senseless violence can be vanquished. If the "victim" shares my mindset, he was thankful for the gunshot. If I found myself in Buckhead at 3:00am on Sunday morning I'd want to shoot myself.
...Only two weeks til the big day---December 26 and the end of Christmas for this year.
...Its the final day of the
regular season with only one meaningful game on the
schedule: Mother Tuckers v. Rudi08. Yolanda must win by at least 5
points to make the fourth and final playoff spot. Semi-finals are next
week and the third annual DUFFLE Bowl will play out over Christmas weekend.
December 11, 2004
...Armageddon is upon us. The Hawks beat the Pistons on the road last night, pushing their record to an impressive 4-15. A victory like this could well push the franchise over the twenty win mark for the season.
...Unmentioned but not at all unwelcome was email earlier this week from cousin Matt Bruner---fellow gulag inmate at Peachtree High School in a former life. His missive was prompted by my belated and inadequate tribute to those who were lost at Pearl Harbor and the resultant World War. Matt recounted the few times his dearly departed father would speak of his experiences---an almost universal situation that confirms the axiom that if you hear anyone talking about how or what they did in combat, they weren't there. Yes, war is sometimes a necessary evil, but a hell of a lot easier to discuss academically by middle aged folks in the sanitized comfort of their living rooms who complain about having to take the garbage out.
...The mighty fighting Colonials take their 21st AP ranking on the road to Loretto, PA this afternoon to take on dreaded St Francis. Hey, Georgia played Augusta State last night. Last weekend's wins over two ranked teams have motivated Suttle World to explore the possibility of catching the Colonials in Richmond next month---the farthest south they will venture during the regular season. Plus, Richmond has a minor league hockey team in the renowned United Hockey League, and duckpin bowling.
...Especially given the current price point, the Ipod has got to be the most overrated electronics gizmo on the market. Yea, I'm an old fart, but I don't need to carry around 20,000 tunes on my person, and fiddling with the little device for home applications seems to have little advantage over conventional CD play. Now if you can get some TV interface, whereby, one can use a remote to set up play lists, etc... from the comfort of the sofa you may have something worthwhile. Satellite radio also would appear to miss the mark. With the exception of Manitoba's show on Sirius, the programming would appear to be throwing in the towel with regard to the whole concept of radio. Many may not be old enough to recall that radio once was entertaining both for the music played but also for the personalities with the "stacks of wax---all designed with you in mind." Today, even in major markets, flunkies read from little 3 x 5 cards and then hit a button to play "ten tedious tunes in a row." Radio can/could be your friend, a music box can't.
December 10, 2004
...Here's an item to put on the President's agenda in his upcoming NATO meeting: we quit! If anyone can tell me one thing of value the United States gains from this alliance, aside from a bill, I'd love to hear it. Same deal with the UN. The latest scandal only confirms what anyone with higher than a room temperature IQ has known for years---the UN is the most corrupt and inefficient international organization in the history of the planet. At the very least, give our brothers and sisters in New York a break and get the traffic clogging idiots out of this country. Again, France would appear to be the logical choice, with the frogs picking up our tab.
...So the Rumsfeld question was a plant. Good. I've got a few other questions for the Secretary---namely why can't the United States military control a third world nation: Iraq?
...Tis the season for the obligatory fights over nativity displays and the like. Yes, it seems silly, but the thing is, the anti-religion nuts are right. Erect all the religious symbols you want at your home or church or any other private property with the consent of the owner, but keep the stuff off government property. If you require the government to validate your faith, then you've got a lot bigger issues with which to deal than whether a manger is displayed on the court house lawn.
...We continue to be impressed with the staff and faculty at Tucker Middle School. Yesterday, Yolanda and I had the pleasure of meeting with Ridge's teachers and counselor to discuss his progress. Everyone was upbeat, professional and most importantly, pleased with Ridge's progress. Only one week to go in the first semester and a 3.0 is not out of the questions---a cause for great celebration around these parts.
...Heisman Trophy to be awarded tomorrow in New York. Beau Bock has a vote---need I say more about how insignificant the event has become in a sport where every game is insignificant because no champion is ever determined.
...Word from the western North Carolina satellite office of Suttle World has the final touch ups being completed. We're uncertain when we'll return, but look forward to doing so and exploring the area---especially since I found a minor league hockey team in Asheville.
December 9, 2004
...Yeah, rock n roll is in a sad state---bad enough for one to contemplate eating the Egg McMagnum, but not so bad as to open fire on a band and its audience. Just say no to bad acts, and nobody gets hurt.
...After fielding questions from soldiers regarding extended duty and a lack of resources on the ground in Iraq, Defense Secretary Rumsfeld got in his armored limo to return to Washington. Wonder if undersecretary Wolfowitz knows how many American casualties have been suffered to date now. Here's a hint: its over 1000.
...Having actually put pen to paper with regard to the obligatory Christmas giving deal, I discovered, much to my pleasant surprise, that there isn't that much left to do. Many gifts have already been bought, with the only big hassle left being shipping the stuff around the southeast.
December 8, 2004
...In an outrageous oversight on my part, I neglected to recognized the 63rd anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor yesterday. American losses were roughly equal to the 2500+ lives lost in the September 11th attacks three years ago. Each year we share the collective loss of a shrinking list of survivors from the Pearl Harbor attack and other veterans of World War II. They are well deserving of our respect, admiration and recognition.
...Yesterday was also an excellent lesson in the health care problems that face our country---namely cost and who picks up the tab. Personally, when it comes to prescription drugs, I am self pay kind of guy. Consequently, I am never shy about asking if any prescribed medication has a cheaper or generic alternative. I neglected to follow said behavior yesterday after being written a scrip following a minor in-office procedure. The nice folks at Kroger said the price would be $79 for the 60 tabs. The nice folks at Kroger are now in contact with my doctor to arrange for a cheaper, generic alternative that should come in at about a third the cost. The bigger picture, is that those with drug and other medical insurance coverage never ask about cost because some third party is paying. The result is a lack of common market forces and escalating prices, the same way milk would cost $32 a gallon for the non-covered individual if everyone else had milk insurance. The milk insured could care less about the $32 price tag as long as they only had to pay their $3 co-pay. If folks had to shop for medical care the way they shopped for groceries, the price issue would be greatly abated. And while we're in the pharmacy, could we please take a deep breath before pulling every prescription NSIA off the market (i.e. Celebrex and Bextra in addition to the Viox ban). Long term cardiac problems deserve intense study, but millions of folks are able to live normal lives that would be otherwise impaired without these drugs. Me thinks this may be go under the aspirin couldn't gain FDA approval, much less for over the counter purchase, if it were to come down the pipeline today file.
...Final week of the regular
season and one game looms large on the schedule. The two previous
champions, Yo and neighbor Bill, meet in a game that will determine the fourth
and final playoff position. Yolanda has to win by a margin of more than 5
points to make it to the post season. Bill need only win, or lose by less
than 5 (total points is the first tie breaker). Clay, Diedra and Brent have
already secured the other three playoff spots. The Dictators had yet
another disappointing year. By my calculations, in a 14 game regular
season, 4 players would get a total of 52 starts (4 x 13 with bye week).
My first four draft picks have made at least 10 of those 50 plus starts.
Next year I'm just going to take Andy Messersmith in the first round.
December 7, 2004
...Colonials ranked! #21 in AP #25 in the USA Today/Coaches poll without another ranked opponent in sight, GW can now beat folks they should and move up and towards a return to the big dance come March. A-10 tourney is in Cinci March 9-12---who knows... In the GW Baseball department, the Colonials travel to play a three game series against niece Jessica's school, Georgia Southern, in Statesboro, Feb 18-20.
...At least 16 people must have been watching early this morning as the Cowboys became the only team in the 35 year history of Monday Night Football to come form more than ten points behind in the last two minutes to win, but one doubts if any of the group really cared.
...Sunrise will eclipse the 7:30 mark by Wednesday with another two weeks of diminishing daylight to go. Atmospheric conditions haven't helped the light deprivation---with heavy rain and fog persisting, but the 60-70 high temps are a welcome addition to the gas bill.
December 6, 2004
...Colonials win! Colonials win! After knocking off 11th ranked Michigan State on Saturday, George Washington went on to beat number 12 Maryland yesterday afternoon in the BB&T classic in D.C. That makes my alma mater 5-1, with the only loss coming to then #1 ranked Wake Forest. This should go a long way in the RPI rankings, and we certainly expect at least also ran status in both polls.
...Following an obligatory three yards, the cloud of dust that is this year's NFL season appears to be settling, excepting for those 4-7 NFC teams going into yesterday still jockeying for the last wild card slot. The AFC would appear to be a contest between New England and Pittsburgh where home field advantage could be the key. Same could be said of Philly, but being unsure as to which Falcons teams will show up on any given Sunday, the gentle surfer is reminded the playoff win in Green Bay in 2002. That plus the Eagle's failure to win the "big one" make the Falcons as likely as anyone to get to the Super Bowl. Regardless, the playoffs are a mere four weeks away, and the NFL playoffs come close to equaling March Madness in their intensity and interest, excepting there are fewer games and farther apart.
...Staying in the sports vein, we turn to the long awaited Giambi/steroid take (damn, I'm funny). Yes, athletes continue to grow faster and louder on their own as humanoids evolve, but a cursory examination of baseball cards of many players from year-to-year leave no doubt about Giambi, et al being on the juice. No doubt, baseball will deal with the issue reasonably well (they got tobacco out of the game for God's sake), but the greater concern seems to be with Barry and what to make of his numbers given the implications of his being juiced as well. Personally, its not an easy call. Assuming he ceased the use of whatever this past season, the non-juiced Bonds won his SIXTH MVP, while having the most impressive offensive season of the modern era at the age of 41! Some have suggested that at least a mental asterisk be put next to the last several years, but we don't do that for the 30's when the ball was juiced during the Depression to keep folks coming to the ball park---check your Baseball Almanac for the 1930 season, the Phillies scored 900 runs and finished in last place! It is a blight, but the greatest game ever invented by mankind will somehow survive and continue to flourish despite the stewardship of the very fallible mortals in whom baseball has been entrusted.
December 5, 2004
...Well Navy beats Army so we're ready for the NCAA Division I Football Championship playoffs. It should be interesting, what with five undefeated teams and all. Well, maybe not. Once again I shall cling to my new mantra that there is not a single significant game played during the entire season, because under the status-quo there is no manner of determining a champion, much less accommodating Auburn, Utah and Boise State in the equation. The lack of a playoff system is the most glaring pyre of stupidity glowing on the the country's cultural/sports horizon. And that's saying something when you have competition from Hollywood, Brittney Spears and the No Hockey League. And while I'm at it---isn't it fun to watch the folks in South Bend squirm? Is Jerry Faust still available? Or Jerry Glanville for that matter. WWJD? Probably laugh along with the rest of us. Poor Domers.
...Protestors in Atlanta and around the nation are organizing a boycott of Christmas shopping to end the war in Iraq. Participants appeared to be the usual suspects----the not so gracefully aging Kumbaya crowd. I can get on board with the means part, but while this page has expressed a number of misgivings about the war, before and during the operation, I would remind my Birkenstock wearing brothers and sisters that even during the most intense fighting, fewer people are being killed in Iraq now than on any average day during Saddam's reign of terror. The good news is only 20 more days to endure until Christmas is over.
...Got a big empty basement or warehouse sitting around and a lot of money to put into it for sheer pleasure?---here's a really neat idea. Bust off an email or phone call when you're ready to get started and I'll help install in exchange for a little stick time now and then. Actually, depending on liability issues, its a great entrepreneurial idea---haul a small rink around for town festivals, etc... My cursory conclusion is that it works out to about $10/sq ft, but at $8-10 a throw, plus skate rental, the initial capital outlay could be amortized rather quickly.
...About 18 trading days and 408 points to go for the Dow to finish the year at 11,000. Given the Microsoft dividend bonanza and Intel's earnings report, the chances look pretty good. Pass the national retail sales tax and get ready for 20,000. Fairtax.org boys and girls---I'm begging ya to give it a good read. Just another factoid for the gentle surfer: more man hours are spent in this country by individuals dealing with the tax code and complying with same than the total hours worked in the state of Indiana each year.
...Since he made no reference to it, I shall put off to coincidence the email received yesterday from Steve Tully. One year ago today, Steve was also in New York as the first flakes of what would become 18-24 inches of snow began to fall on the Big Apple. It was a welcome shout out that coincided with our first (this time) wedding anniversary---a day that passed quietly at Stately Roberts/Suttle Manor, acknowledged more by Dad and Mary than ourselves. We are most appreciative for the lovely flowers.
...The 
page update is coming along nicely, with all the pics in their
appropriate places. Now on the to member's bios, a few links and some
other clean up and the project is finished. Too bad there isn't a band
out there to go with it.
...Congratulations to Delta on their acquisition of a $1 billion line of credit. Where do I get in line? My balance sheet looks a lot better than does the airline's, so just mail the check our email for information about an electronic funds transfer. A billion bucks would come in handy here what with the holidays and all.
December 4, 2004
...OK---time for a little catch up...
...A lot more turnover at the White House than I would have expected, but I haven't kept the pulse of various cabinet members either, so it may be of little interest or concern. I admire Tom Ridge's position---basically, hey, I got kids to put through college, I gotta make some money. Unfortunately, the Pentagon will remain pretty much in tact and one has to wonder if that has anything to do with the exodus.
...Feel free to add Bill O'Reilly to the list of candidates for alien abduction.
...Like most of these takes, this is late in the commenting, but did anyone catch Meet the Press last Sunday (11/28)? Al Sharpton and Jerry Falwell discussing the "moral issues" that allegedly made the difference in the November elections---were Oral Roberts and Earnest Angley busy? Don't think I require my moral compass to be reset by guys who either incite riots or know God's thinking on U.S. foreign policy. But as clown colleges go, it did have a fairly high amusement factor.
...I caught Brokaw's last night Wednesday because it seemed like the thing to do, but having no recollection of when I last watched a network news cast prior to this week's "sign off", I can't testify to his retirement being that big a deal. Seems like a nice enough guy, but, again, I respectfully suggest the Greatest Generation come with an asterisk. Please consult the debt clock on the home page and cogitate on the matter for a while.
...It only took this country ten years to realize the folly of prohibition, with its repeal, through the passage of the 21st amendment, being led by many of the same people who had called for passage of the 19th amendment, making booze illegal. We are now 85 years into the prohibition of drugs and keep pressing forward in the epitome of insanity: continuing the same behavior and expecting different results. At present nearly 500,000 people are incarcerated in this country because of non-violent drug offenses. Concerned about crime or the threat of terrorism?---good for you, its a reasonable cause of angst. Here's a little object lesson for the gentle surfer, be he an urban, suburban or rural resident. Go to your local court house the next day criminal calendars are being called. In the lobby you will find a list of defendants, the court room in which they are to appear, the presiding judge and the offense with which they are charged. Note the offenses column---at least half will be "violation of (fill in your state's initials) CSA (controlled substances act)." Now imagine if all the resources used to investigate, arrest, prosecute, incarcerate, etc... these folks were used to combat crimes by individuals that directly violate another citizen's right to life, liberty or property.
...By week's end, Master Plan will have played six gigs in the past month, concluding with three shows in Canada. Uh, that's the wrong direction guys. Also of note, is another Charlotte gig for Cruis-O-Matic---this one February 19 with the Spongetones at the Double Door Inn. Edward advises that the venue is one of the band's favorites---a base from where they established themselves regionally after moving out of the sphere of Atlanta a few years back. Thanks to the Tanner brothers for the heads up. We hope to catch you guys again in the near future.
...The SEC championship game is set for tonight at the Georgia Dome as Tennessee takes on Auburn. My only request is that the city pass a temporary ordinance that allows one to bitch slap, with impunity, anyone who utters the words "war eagle" or starts in with Rocky Top. Of course, one has to pull for Auburn so that the BCS debacle can be made all the worse.
December 3, 2004
...As previously noted, takes are infrequent this weeks as other duties compromise publishing opportunities. Suffice to say the highlight of the week was a chance to get together with cousin Paul and the usual suspects for a lovely dining and socializing experience.
...The Darlington sign is nearing 5,000,000. That's about 3.5 million too many by my estimation.
November 30, 2004
...Yea, I know I have not been as dutiful as usual in the past week or so, but its not easy running Suttle World from the far flung nether regions of the universe---so sue me. Fact is that its just a bit tough to publish this week, so updates may well be few and far between.
...Big news is that cousin Paul is in town today and available for socializing. No doubt, we'll be in touch sometime this morning.
...A lot more thoughts about resignations, court decisions and Brokaw's retirement as time permits.
November 28, 2004
...Belated Thanksgiving wishes to all. On the "home" front, all went well with the Suttle World clan and our trek to and from the western North Carolina satellite office. Travel was a piece of cake (or pumpkin pie as the case may be). We departed early enough Wednesday (9:30 or so) to avoid traffic and rain, encountering some precip only during the last 25 miles or so. The return passage was equally smooth, excepting fifteen miles of bumper to bumper stuff on I-85 around the Great Mall of Georgia! Yes, I understand the American consumer drives two-thirds of our economy, so keep spending, but JUST SAY NO TO MALLS! Regardless, we had a Thanksgiving dinner that couldn't be beat courtesy of my bride. We schlepped all the stuff up there and assembled upon arrival. We remain convinced that brining the turkey is far and away the preferred method.
...The satellite office continues to near completion, with only a few nagging finishing touches to be completed. Again, reports have it that the area is lovely indeed, but to date, I can only testify about Lowe's and Ingle's. Future visits that are not strictly "work" or holiday related should end the mystery of Henderson County.
...Memo to Dawg Nation: I don't follow the college game that closely, but Georgia is not the 7th best team in the country. I can reel off nearly a dozen schools who could whoop 'em in a big way. And while we're in the reality check department, yesterday's "big game" was awful. Play was awful---coaching was worse (you punt on 4th and 6 with 6:00 left and a kicker who's pinned Georgia inside the 15 three times). The only folks who came away from Georgia/Georgia Tech happy were those who took Tech and the 15 points. But all this matters not, because without a playoff, all these games are meaningless, contrary to what proponents of the status-quo would lead you to believe. One can only hope for five undefeated teams---"Anarchy in the NCAA."
...Did Dan Rather submit a letter of resignation, and, if so, how do we know its authentic?
...Found an OXO machine on ebay, but its in partial repair in Michigan. Anyone traveling in the area in the next week or so, get in touch, in that it must be picked up by the winning bidder.
November 23, 2004
...Significant degeneration on a number of levels was the best info I could pry from any of the myriad of physicians seen this week, oh, and the kind offer of a referral to a surgeon. Thanks, but no thanks. Alas the joys of aging, but in the Faster and Louder mode, per usual.
...Advance thanks to brother Bill with his hound help as we gather niece Jessica in the hajmobile and head to Suttle World's western North Carolina satellite office this morning. As previously reported, Suttle World will go dark during the next several days. The smart money being on next publication being Sunday. Til then, go safely my children on thy interstate highways and rural routes. Word has it that some of our fellow drivers aint right. Please be governed accordingly. And Happy Thanksgiving to you too. Don't forget you've still got all those Cruis-O-Matic pics to wade through, plus if you've never quite finished the 2004 Summer Fun Extravaganza, there's no time like the holidays. Yes, the Hillbilly Dictators Jihad page remains under renovation, but the 2003 Spring Haj Final Report is still around for your perusal. It, plus The Dictators own words go a long way in explaining why a Hillbilly Dictators Jihad page would require updating to begin with. So there, you've got your work to do. Beats the hell out of watching the Lions.
...AMF Dan. And am I the only person who has noted that his resignation comes on the anniversary of the story that put him on the map---the Kennedy assassination 41 years ago?
November 23, 2004
...Little to bring as appointments must be met and jury summons answered and kids directed on their appropriate rounds prior to joining our celebratory brothers and sisters on the nation's highways and byways tomorrow. Now tell me again about how fun all of this is supposed to be? Perhaps Master Plan will schedule an impromptu gig at the Flat Rock Playhouse for the Thanksgiving weekend. Perhaps I'll catch an NHL game this weekend too.
November 22, 2004
...Well Ron Artest needn't worry about being conflicted about fulfilling his NBA duties and the grind of promoting his new album. I wish his "musical" efforts well. No, I really do. I hope the sucker goes platinum, with Artest collecting a check for $248.96 as is often the case with "artists" after record label accountants get through with the number crunching. Having now seen the ordeal 53 times I have come to the unmistakable conclusion that with the exception of Larry Brown, the sum IQ of everyone in the building at the time---players, fans, security, et al---is roughly equivalent to a dead flash light battery. My favorite part is still the fat white fan in the Detroit jersey taking a haymaker on the court. Orbit fractures make for very powerful object lessons. Authorities are still investigating if alcohol played a role in the incident.
...Like it or not Thanksgiving is this week---about four days away by my count. To that end, the gentle surfer is advised that Suttle World will take yet another hiatus for the holiday, as the crew shifts to the western North Carolina satellite office. While departing Tuesday evening would be great, we are much more likely to hit the road early Wednesday morning. This of course, assumes the cooperation of the good folks in DeKalb County, as Yolanda has conveniently been called for jury duty on Tuesday. Given she has greater than a third grade education, family in law enforcement and the victim of a violent crime, we reckon the chances of her being excluded via telephone tonight are pretty good.
...
is just too pitiful for words, and the fantasy world didn't get
any brighter with yet another injury (Aman Green last night)---just toss him on
the other pile of tattered bodies including Steven Davis and Randy Moss.
The Patriot defense has really got to step up tonight---not a huge request
against Kansas City.
...The Falcons are freakin 8-2! Getting six games against New Orleans, Carolina and Tampa doesn't hurt, but the thought of this team going into the Meadowlands in November and winning a game boggles the mind of the Falcon follower with a memory only a decade long---not to mention those with nearly 40 years. And before the complaints being, yes Fox did want Eli to have a big day. It was their marquee 4:00 game with the pedigreed rookie QB in the Big Apple. What did you expect? Keeping in the local tootsie ball department, Georgia is a 15.5 point favorite over Tech this Saturday. That's a lot of points, even in Athens, but Tech has shown the ability to be extraordinarily hideous this year, so no real feel at this point.
November 21, 2004
...OK so the progress is slow. Hell, I'm slow---what do you expect? And dear sir, if you are still with us and out there, our adolescent taunting was uncalled for, albeit in absentia. Nonetheless, Shlomo Lipshitz is still a damn funny name. Come to think of it, perhaps I can use my juice with Dirk Bremen to get him at least a part time gig. Stay tuned.
...Why not...I'll throw a bone out at the
neglected
. Again, no man is a failure. He can always serve as
a bad example. The fantasy game is not quite as insufferable. In
I pretty much have to run the table to get in the post season,
and this with all my studs and QBs hurt or benched. Playoffs seem probable
in the Yahoo winners league where I look for a fourth consecutive championship.
...Ironically, my notions about the college game would have proved much more profitable over the season. Auburn and Carolina were give aways yesterday as was Auburn -4 v. Georgia the week before. Perhaps some bowl action is in the future. Perhaps $2500 claimers at Charlestown. Perhaps Swedish midget sumo---whatever it takes to get somewhere close to sea level.
...Does anyone familiar with the long aired, locally produced, high school team quiz show HighQ being hosted by Chuck Dowdle to be like, well, HighQ being hosted by Chuck Dowdle?
...Ahh the power of the internet. The regular visitor will note that the tenor of the Google ads tends to change as the rants. For example, following the election it was all political ads. With the more recent Cruis-O-Matic references, the tone is music. So let's give this a try...
...The kangaroo took Viagra even though he knew it to be morally wrong. Skippy had learned this in a Scientology class he took at a Christian Science Reading Room just off Times Square. The morose marsupial sipped his Starbucks grande cappuccino and drifted into that common frustration. If only he could discover the thirteenth herb or spice, he would unlock the secret of Kentucky Fried Chicken/KFC and retire happily in sunny mountain acreage where he could merrily hop with his friends, the animals of Disney and The Council on Foreign Relations. Should be interesting.
