Archives---July, 2005
July 31, 2005
...It just don't get better than this boys and girls. July goes out like a lion! First up is the 2:00 Texas steel cage death match that is the Braves v. Gorf Rats epic battle for uncontested possession of first place in Wiffle Atlanta. The old man takes his 1-0 record to the hill this afternoon against the young flat bellies who visited a south Georgia ass whooping on the Gorf Rats in their first game of the season. Its been all uphill from their and the Dirt Square club finished the first half of the season at 4-1.
...Following the clash of the titans, a short shower and change and Suttle World HQ adeptly segues to the north side to rub elbows (play hanger on) with the legendary Ross the Boss and catch the Brain Surgeons gig at Alpharetta's The North End this evening. Yo is supposed to catch up with Ross this afternoon and we'll take it from there. Then we'll probably return home for a round table discussion with the Pope, Dali Lama and Steven Hawking before calling it a night. Wiffle Ball and Ross the Boss---a definite pegging of the old fun o meter.
...It didn't exactly take Kreskin to pick the Braves to be in first place in the National League East a week or so ago, but Suttle World's longing for some sort of pennant race would appear be out the window as the home team takes a 5 game lead headed into this afternoon's game against Pittsburg. 14th verse not exactly same as the first, but they're running out of room at the Ted to hang all the damn pennants.
...The First Annual Peachtree Old Fart Golf Classic page has been update; including the newly devised, kinder, simpler scoring system. And, yes, I did have visions of lime green or fuchsia dancing in my head, but also believe the Pimp Daddy look works for the obligatory champion's ugly sport coat obtained yesterday at Value Village for $6.29. Pics on the Classic page.
July 30, 2005
...So much cyber housekeeping to do. It leaves one overwhelmed with where to start and what minutiae to cover. Just try to cover a few bases and catch up as time and acumen allow.
...Stately Roberts/Suttle Manor was privileged to enjoy the all to uncommon visit of niece Jessica yesterday evening. In town with buddy Hogan for baseball and other doings, their appearance was most welcome, and we hope to catch up with them again prior to departure this weekend.
..."just give me a summer for a [this] weekend:" two big items on the agenda---both rather significant in their own spheres of influence. First there's the omnipresent matter of Wiffle Atlanta. The little league that could continues to putter along with a "big game" set for tomorrow afternoon: Braves (3-1) v. Gorf Rats (4-1). Box score for last Sunday's Pirates/Gorf Rats game finally completed, forwarded to league headquarters and available for your viewing pleasure here. Going out on a limb here, but the 20 run Gorf Rat 6th inning may stand atop the record book in several categories for some time to come. Still awaiting some word from the Braves organization regarding the clash of the titans, given my need to bid an early retreat Sunday afternoon. Also of note, is the anticipated lovely addition of a goal post to our current center field. TMS has been kind enough to paint those neat straight lines for our use, so we won't complain, but may well have to make some rather radical accommodations.
...The other big event of the weekend is, of course, the long anticipated Brain Surgeons gig Sunday night at The North End in Alpharetta. As previously noted, the world's greatest wife made phone contact with the world's greatest guitarist, Ross the Boss, earlier this week and plans are to attend their sound check and have a chance to meet and greet, presumably including introduction to the legendary Albert Bouchard---founding member of Blue Oyster Cult. What's not to like? Those interested in tagging along are welcome to the best of my knowledge. Email for further details.
...And then the hits just keep on coming, as the seminal Peachtree Old Fart Golf Classic gets underway Friday in lovely Flat Rock, NC. An exact schedule is still up in the air, but it would appear as though the Putt Putt and par 3 competitions will be affected Friday, with a more leisurely pace for a round of real golf both Saturday and Sunday. More details to follow---working on the scoring system at this writing.
July 29, 2005
...Mission accomplished. Recovery underway. Details to follow with the approach of happenings o plenty through next week.
July 27, 2005
...Who has sole possession of first place in the National League Eastern Division? Who has sole possession of first place in Wiffle Atlanta? Who's the cat that won't cop out when there's danger all about?
...Once again, time is in short supply this morning and will remain so for the next 48 hours or so, but stay tuned. Yet to come is the build up for Sunday's big Brain Surgeons show in Alpharetta, and Ms. Yolanda's telephone conversation Tuesday with one Ross the Boss in anticipation of his visit. The chat with one of the greatest guitarists in the history of the genre led to a great deal of insight as to the current workings in Dictatorsland. Details forthcoming.
July 26, 2005
...Pressed again for time this morning as the efforts to distinguish elbows from assholes continues in full force. The Gorf Rats have done their part, now its on the Richmond Braves to take sole possession of first place in the National League Eastern Division. Nationals in town for a three game series beginning tonight.
July 25, 2005
...Though armed with more juicy info than the past several months combined, the clock on the wall prevents the necessary dissemination. Fortunately, it is not time sensitive info and can be disclosed as time allows. Stay tuned and play nicely among yourselves.
...Quick note of thanks for the email shout outs from the Cruis-O-Matic gang, Edward Tanner especially. Last Saturday was a blast, and Yolanda and I do greatly look forward to more face time in the future, as well as amplification on an act that is simply a great entertainment value, especially for those who, for the most part, have moved past the elbow to elbow, 23 year old girl ralphing on your shoes phase of their lives.
...Oh yeah, while analysts still are pouring over statistical read outs, there are many who speculate it was the 19 run 6th inning that proved crucial in the Gorf Rats 4th CONSECUTIVE WIN TO MOVE THE DIRT SQUARE CLUB INTO SOLE POSSESSION OF FIRST PLACE!
July 24, 2005
...Light Sunday reading for the most part. Cruis-O-Matic was great per usual, the now four piece turned in a spirited hour long 15-18 song set. The former Dottie's, that is now Lenny's Bar on Memorial Drive has changed very little in terms of lay out, and current ownership is giving it a good shot a creating a dive, live music bar. Nothing unique, in fact, if anything, following a pseudo model for such venues. Dropping some bucks into getting the house sound right would go a long way. Mazeltov Lenny's! Once again the Cherry Splits were the headliner, and once again we have failed to catch em. It would have necessitated enduring the intervening act---three, no doubt, very nice young men, who through a synergistic phenomenon took awful to a new level. Cortez. We found it to be more akin to Montezuma's Revenge and bid our retreat. Next scheduled Atlanta gig for Cruis-O-Matic is September 17 at Houck's Steak House in east Cobb.
...Wiffle on for today right about the time the heat index reaches 105°, but the mighty fighting Gorf Rats carry on as the Dirt Square club looks to push its winning streak to 4 and take sole possession of first place. So if you should just happen to be in need of a potential heat stroke victim this afternoon, game time is 4:00 at Tucker Middle School. 5:00-5:15 you should have a pretty fair population from which to pick. Just look for the bright red fellows on their hands and knees shivering and vomiting (on the football field near the tennis court should everyone be prostrate/low visibility).
July 23, 2005
...Gorf Rats Win! The Gorf Rats Win! (OK everybody deserves a second chance, so we'll just leave the weak John Sterling take laying flatly where she is, but a second reference and the gentle surfer is granted permission to shoot on sight) In what all agreed was a well played ball game, Lynn, Rocketman, Lee cemented his role as staff ace by picking up his second win in relief, surrendering a lone run in three innings of work. But the first star has to go to newly appearing phenom Dean Marten. He and Scott provided stellar defense behind the old man starter---getting him out of two out third inning trouble and limiting the Expos to only four runs over their first three trips to the plate. Dino (will drop upon request) followed up with crucial run scoring hits that sparked the Gorf Rat outburst of 8 runs in the bottom of the fifth---cementing a 10-5 victory to move the Dirt Square ball club into a tie with the Braves for first place. Game on for an expected blistering Sunday afternoon. Commissioner Jordan has dutifully updated stats (yesterday's not included---I doubt) at the Wiffle Atlanta official site.
...Word has it the Tour de Please God Make It Stop is nearing an end. We are thankful for our many blessings.
...Cruis-O-Matic gig in town TONIGHT! The venue is Lenny's Bar on Memorial Dr, in/near Cabbage Town, about half a mile west of Boulevard/across from the west end of Oakland Cemetery. Telephone confirmation yesterday is that this is indeed formerly the infamous Dottie's---not a bad small room for our heroes. And ITPphobes can rest more easily in the knowledge that the area has undergone breathtaking gentrification over the past 24 months or so. Music starts at 8:00. Cruis-O-Matic at 9:00 along with the Cherry Splits. $5 at the door---such a deal. This is bang for the buck.
...A little bit of down time this morning before bracing for the final week of what has proved to more challenging than expected academic endeavors. Not real pleased with GPC with regard to a specific issue, but will address that at a more appropriate time. Still, given ongoing external issues and a steeper than expected curve, all would seem to be going reasonably well.
July 22, 2005
...Real quick...Suttle is on a roll as the Braves move into the penthouse of the National League East as predicted, courtesy of the nose diving Nats. THE RED LINE IS GONE! THE RED LINE IS GONE! Well worth a missed season if for no other reason than to affect a rule change that has been needed (especially on smaller North American ice) for over 30 years...Gorf Rat action this evening at Tucker Middle School. Game time tentatively set for 6:00. Wiffle Atlanta site to have been updated, but no evidence of same at this early writing....Cruis-O-Matic tomorrow night with the Cherry Splits and a couple other acts at Lenny's Bar in town...If Lance wins again, does he promise to retire and with it retire any further mention of bicycle racing at any time in the future---a sport that makes soccer look as though played by ADD patients on crack. Suttle World is pulling for Rosie Ruiz.
July 21, 2005
...And the nominee is Jurdge John Roberts of the DC Circuit. Toss in Karl Rove and you've got more than usual with which the news media can play during the very dull dog days of August in DC, especially a non-election year. The contortion of the language for the next few weeks will be worth the price of admission in and of itself. Those of us who do not find a safe harbor in either Republican or Democratic ports of call and often have difficulty distinguishing between the two find both amusement and satisfactions in such goings on in that they preoccupy the literal powers to be from doing more stuff to us. Sure there are those nagging issues like securing the nation's borders, a war half way around the world set on indefinite until such time as rather unclear objectives are achieved and the like, but its not a big deal. Just ask any London subway rider.
...Despite an ugly effort last night on the west coast against the Giants, I'm sticking with the Braves taking permanent control of first place on or before the Nationals departure next Thursday, preceded this weekend by a series against an awful Arizona team that is only four games under .500 because they get to play Frisco and the Rockies so regularly.
July 19, 2005
...Just enough time to update the usual suspects, and move merrily along this morning. Place nicely among yourselves. Suttle World expects a Supreme Court nominee before nightfall, and predicts the Richmond Braves will be in sole possession of first place in the National League East if not by week's end, then certainly by this time next week when the Nationals come calling.
July 18, 2005
...72 holes of Championship golf was decided in a sixty second span yesterday morning (EDT) as the top of the leader board engaged in a simultaneous demonstration of the Tiger two swing boogie. And didn't some idiot with his own tedious web site say something about -14? Regardless, completing one's second career grand slam at the age of 29 is simply incomprehensible. Absent being hit by the proverbial celestial Buick, there's no reason not to believe he'll ring up his 20th major by age 35. Theoretically, that's 10 out of the next 24 majors---that would bring scorn from many a writer for not having won a majority of the 24. Also worthy of mention, while I often harmonize with the whining of the problems of various sports, consider if you will that these are the good old days. Gretzky, Jordan and Woods---the greatest at their particular craft all right there in the comfort of your living room over the past couple decades. I'd toss in Aaron, but that's 30 years, and opens another can of worms with regard to my minority take on Henry being the greatest at his own endeavor.
...Wiffle Atlanta played on yesterday afternoon, albeit with a limited schedule that excluded the Gorf Rats. On a day that could serve as the poster child for sultry, the Braves continued their winning ways with a 9-4 win over the Pirates. The Gorf Rats represented, but our opponents did not (excepting Mr. Ben) and so the Dirt Square Wiffle club remains at 2-1, with a make up game possible this Wednesday or Friday afternoon. Commissioner Jordan reports some technical problems resulting in a lack of league site updates. Resolution is promised soon.
...Reaction from The Dictators underground do not express the same bewilderment shown by stately Roberts/Suttle Manor regarding the recently released "live" CD. I shall attempt to refine my take in the days to come into a more cogent form. For now, suffice to say, its difficult to believe the end product was what was envisioned at the beginning of the project over 3 years ago. More to come.
...Though no confirmation from vacationing cuzin Bubs, the first annual Peachtree Old Fart Golf Classic has been rescheduled for the first weekend of August.
July 17, 2005 (Fifth and final 2005 High Holy Day of Sport---British Open Final Round)
...Dueling lead stories today in Suttle World, and given that one is unfolding at this writing, I shall reserve permission to revise and extend my remarks for the record at a future point. Suffice to say the Championship is not "Tiger's to lose" as will not doubt be the take of the majority on the upcoming Sports Reporters, but one that can be won by any of several able players with experience on the big stage. The only question is if someone will put up a 66 or such with the conditions holding up well. If Woods finishes -14 and doesn't win, he will not have choked or given it away. Leaders even after 2.
...¡Viva Dictators! arrived as promised and is dumbfoundingly disappointing on many levels. The good news is that the sound is pretty good, and if you were looking for a compilation of Dictators songs that just happened to be performed live, this is the CD for you. If it was a well produced snapshot of The Dictators experience you were after, especially those who have not had the pleasure of witnessing same for themselves, well, sucks for you. To date, Ms. Roberts and I find the answer to the whys to be as ugly as the opportunity lost in this "effort." More later.
...Wiffle Atlanta action resumes this afternoon at 2:00 weather permitting in this the wettest July since Atlanta put out the official rain bucket some 150 years ago. My guess is that there was an official bucket prior to that, but that it was lost in what became the first Federal urban renewal project in history orchestrated by brother Tecumseh about 150 years ago.
...Off to watch the open...Montie birdies No. 3 to go 10 under tied with Olazabal, two behind Tiger---both of whom are even after two. You go watch now!
July 16, 2005
...Jack Nicklaus, arguably the greatest the player in the storied history of the game of golf died today in his Ohio home. Nicklaus was ______. That's how Jack's obit will start, and despite a stellar career that basically paralleled my time on the planet, there's little else to write. Devoted husband and father and the other usual attributes, but beyond the phenomenal numbers there's still precious little to sink one's teeth into. Yes, Suttle World has a bias: basically Jack is not a very likeable guy, but one doubts as to whether this take is of any consequence to Jack, in that his job was to win golf tournaments, and he did so at a pace unseen to date. One will hope there is personality redemption in retirement (Bill Russell, Ted Williams and George Foreman come to mind). Suttle World would very much like to report a 180 on Jack in the coming years.
...Those in the Charlotte area will want to stop by the Double Door Inn tonight to catch Atlanta's dynamic Cruis-O-Matic. Atlanta gig at Lenny's Bar next Saturday.
...Publication truncated this morning due to computer maintenance---the high tech version of "my grandmother died," but actually true in this case. Comcast expected soon to change out modems.
...Its should be here this afternoon----¡VIVA DICTATORS!
July 15, 2005
...Story of the day is Jack Nicklaus, but we'll let his second round play out before writing the obit. At this writing, his chances for making the cut don't look good.
...Our dear friends at the United States Postal Service now advise that the highly coveted Dictators live CD to be in Atlanta. Stately Roberts/Suttle Manor is hopeful of a delivery this afternoon or tomorrow at the latest.
...Today may well be the day the network newscasts lead with "12,000 commercial airline flights successfully took off and landed today..." Mighty quiet out there, with only the rather shocking statement of Justice Rehnquist that he wasn't stepping down anytime soon to savor. This does raise a rather interesting Constitutional question. If a Justice is in a decidedly diminished state of mental acuity, what happens? Impeachment for the failure to execute one's oath office is the only remedy that comes to mind. This is not to say Rehnquist is nuts. It just raises an interesting question: if dude shows up for the first day of the Court's next session dressed in a striking Channel pant suit, with matching pumps and insisting everyone address him as Admiral, whatcha gonna do? But given the odd behavior of the Court of late, one also must wonder if it would truly make any difference.
July 14, 2005
...And they're off at St. Andrews in the 134th British Open Championship. Didn't think to check the on line bookies last night to see where the money settled and as to how much a favorite Tiger is. I'm willing to bet its too prohibitive to attract any wager from me. Not to mention that wagering on golf has always seemed very similar to the a small scale lottery---somewhere between Power Ball and dog racing. Very fortunate to be able to take in some of all four rounds this year, and greatly anticipate the last of the five High Holy Days on the sports calendar Sunday morning when the final round begins. Both a great event and time shift---one akin to the greatest advantage Suttle World can see for living on the west coast: early football games start at 10:00 Sunday mornings.
...After two years of negotiations hockey players and management have come to agree that not playing games and not getting paid is, generally speaking, not good for business. Having established this premise, the genius parties in question have further agreed to play games later this year in order to ameliorate the problem. The whacky happenings between now and when they drop the puck should be infinitely more entertaining than any mid season Anaheim/Edmonton match up. Some considerations are not whacky---in taking a good long look at the nature of the game itself. Here's the chance to rid ourselves of either the red or both blue lines (pick a line any line) and perhaps make the goals larger. Hockey survived and thrived after the forward pass was "legalized" some 80 years ago. Fundamental changes such as this could well be part of regaining what little stature the NHL held prior to the work stoppage. Finally, its worthy of mention that this is one Suttle World had right, as opposed to the many calls gone wrong in the past. I declared last season a no go in late 2003, and further held that there was no certainty the coming season would be played. This would seem to give standing to make a suggestion: if its cost saving measures and the lowering of ticket prices you're after, feel free to ixnay the pseudo Kiss production for every freakin game. Buy a used organ and hire an old lady. Hell, hire Waring. He'd do it gratis and all you guys have to do is trade out the first class shipping and handling charge. Meanwhile, the Gladiators will continue to play decent hockey, offer free parking, and a $10 ticket.
...Our friends at the United States Postal Service report Suttle World's copy of ¡Viva Dictators! to have been received and processed in their Philly station on Tuesday. No further updates, but there is hope of a late week arrival, though the delivery date is shown as the 28th. Experience shows media rate stuff usually moves quicker than promised. The gentle surfer may have noticed that The Dictators have taken over SOTD for the time being as each of the twelve tunes on the new live CD are relived in all their glory. We've already had New York New York where I showed a date of "circa 1980." Those with a more specific/correct date (and how the hell could you tell) are welcome to set the record straight.
...No big Gorf Rat news this week, nor any certainty if there will be any Friday action. Suffice to say, we're reasonably pleased with the 2-1 record and await future marching orders. Though finally up and running, Wiffle Atlanta, is still very much a work in progress, but one that has a chance to mature into a fixture in these here parts. And can we get some data entry please? Standings, stats, etc... Hell, I'll do it---just lob me some score sheets and log in info.
...Looking for a cause with which to get involved? You may want to look into the newly created DTN Project (Duct Tape for NASA). Its a simple way to have a direct impact on the space program. Just pick up a roll, and put in the mail to: NASA, DTN Project, Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, FL. Tough break about the aborted launch, especially considering the Glass Doctor showed in record time after the windshield fell out; but then the gas gauge got stuck, and given the last crew is still vacationing ALL OVER the southwest... Well let's just say discretion is indeed the better part of valor, so they'll try it again at a time to be determined. And exactly what is this mission supposed to accomplish? I know the folks on the space station are getting hungry, but exactly what the hell are they doing up there in the first place. If a national security issue can be cited then fine, but otherwise there would appear to be a lot of sizzle and little steak to date. And spare me the litany of day to day items the "space program has produced." Yes, technologies where discovered and/or refined, but ultimately brought into our homes by the private sector. This is all fine and good, but its not the government's job to develop technology for the private sector so I can buy a microwave for $40. Science for science's sake is a noble concept, but let the advocates and benefactors pick up the tab. And if you're not feeling old enough today, consider this little time/space ditty: my guess is roughly 30% of MD's currently practicing medicine have no recollection of a man on the moon, or that for the entering collegiate freshman class, the last moon mission was completed roughly 15 years before their birth.
July 13, 2005
...Every year about this time the news doldrums set in, especially in a non-election year; but equally as predictable as the dead zone of items about which to dwell, is the desperate grasp at any possible story. Currently, there is Carl Rove to beat about the head and shoulders. Though doubtful he committed any crime, the White House would be well served to accept a resignation and send him home with some lovely parting gifts, such as a PC, fax machine and phone system. An RNC patron funnels him some money every month and its business as usual with the administration looking good for taking "the moral high road." Further consulting services are available on an appointment basis only.
...Charles Krauthammer nails the Sandra Day O'Connor resignation/replacement ordeal in a column last week. Those on the left demanding a carbon copy of Justice O'Connor are going to have a tough time, given that no one had any idea what she thought about anything until decisions where handed down. It is curious that Justice Rehnquist hasn't stepped down. The chances of him sitting for the court's next term are roughly equal to the odds of me running the next Boston Marathon. Perhaps its just taking longer than expected for him to get to the microphone.
...No doubt about it: the All Star Game was much more compelling when the National League won all the time.
...There would appear to be consensus on the date surrounding the inaugural Peachtree Old Fart Golf Classic---the weekend of August 13. Details to follow. Meanwhile less than 24 hours before the first group sticks a tee in the ground the start the British Open at St. Andrews.
July 12, 2005
...Today's big headline, of course, is the long awaited release of The Dictators live CD ¡VIVA DICTATORS! Order from Amazon here or check with your local music outlet. Nothing on The Dictators site, but the usual suspects/on line retailers all seem to be pedaling the sucker. The pre ordered copy's arrival at stately Roberts/Suttle Manor is expected by week's end, with a window rattlin' good time to ensue shortly thereafter.
...Heading into the turn of this 6 furlong sprint that is A&P I finds the Suttle Stables entry solidly with the pack and prepared to save some ground on the rail over the next week in preparation for the stretch run that is the week of the 25th.
...Bobby Abreu's showing in last nights pre All Star Game Home Run Derby was nothing short of unbelievable. We thought it was neat when a then juiced Sosa hit six or seven in a row few years back, but TWENTY FOUR?!! Just as fun was true love of the game of baseball and the source of national pride it brings so many Latin and South American players. Time was when the same could be said of the United States, but that was before Survivor and American Idol, et al provided superior offerings to the greatest game invented by human kind. All Star Game tonight, and no I can't say that I'm exactly on the edge of my seat, and will probably only catch the last few innings after returning home around 10:30 or so. And for all the griping that goes into how, when and where this exhibition is played is energy that could be much better spent on true crimes against nature: the DH and inter league play.
July 11, 2005
...Beginning of yet another hectic week, or at least the first half thereof, so once again, I must leave the gentle surfer unsupervised for the time being...Losses Saturday and yesterday afternoon notwithstanding, one has to like where the Braves sit at the break considering the bad breaks they've received to date...Yeah she needs to go somewhere and win, but does anybody seriously doubt Michelle Wie will compete successfully of the the PGA tour over the next ten years?..May your sphenoid bone and coronal suture be blessed...Wiffle Atlanta rained out as predicted, probable make up games this Friday...Best wishes to dear old dad who checks in at Duke this morning for another five day infusion of a therapeutic cocktail of drain cleaners.
July 10, 2005
...Climate would appear to be the guiding force today. Actually, I reckon its a rather dominating variable in determining any given day. If its a nice sunny day, dispatches with one's appointed rounds as one sees fit. This opposed to blinding blizzard like conditions, for which there is anecdotal historical evidence that such conditions can be an impediment to daily activity. Ergo, the big finish of this digression of the ages is that beginning a paragraph with "Climate would appear to be the guiding force today," is dumber than dirt in that every freakin day is climate dominated. This is working out well so far. I write one sentence and then spend the lifetime of a fruit fly critiquing same. And I wonder why I never get things done.
...Its gonna rain, OK. In fact forecasts call for rainfall akin to the urinary discharge of the proverbial Russian race horse (though Suttle World remains befuddled at the Russian part and again asks if Russian horses have a larger bladder capacity than say Mr. Ed). In addition, the wind is expected to blow at a rather high rate of speed. No, I am not Johnny Beckman, and I count that among my numerous blessings, but bring you the meteorological update because it will most likely cancel Wiffle Atlanta action today. Its also uncanny in the sense that there has been precipitation six of the last eight Sundays or the primary game day for the league. Despite these setbacks from mother nature, the league forges ahead, with three games played by nearly every team. A rainy Sunday would also afford Commissioner Jordan the opportunity to complete some data entry so that the league's stats and standings are current. There's a certain old, marginally ambulatory, toothless country boy who has a particular interest in how the RBI race is shaping up.
...Not going to make a big deal about the exacts where's and when's of last night's activities, as I don't want to give away one of the great entertainment secrets the city has to offer, especially given the price---free. I shall, however, relate that our brief appearance, that included the entire Cruis-O-Matic set, last night in Avondale Estates was tons of fun. Some warehouse space has been cleaned up and a live sound stage set up, with ceiling mounted PA, where five or six bands gather monthly. No charge. BYOB and lawn chair. Family friendly (lots of kids and early mid-teens)---maybe 50-75 folks on hand. Reckon it affords the chance for acts to work on new material or new acts to get some live stage time, but its a ton of fun, for which we will be better prepared in the future and linger longer. Ms. Yolanda and I will certainly spread the word among the usual suspects, but others that we may fail to speak with or that have greater curiosity about the event (again, sorry to be cryptic, but whoever runs this sucker may not want a lot of promotion/folks just showing up) can either 1) Do the math backwards---reading the previous mentions on this page (or HINT HINT: the Cherry Splits site). Great to speak with Edward Tanner, if only briefly. Brother Blair has unfortunately left the group, moving to the Raleigh area, but the band carries on quite well as a four piece and turned in an impressive no-frills set last night, that was lacking only due to a house issue/sound mix deal. Sounded great guys. We look forward to the next gig in town July 23---a very public event at Lenny's Bar on Memorial Drive---just west of Boulevard/across from Oakland Cemetery or just passed it. Well worth the outing if for no other reason the see how Cabbagetown has changed in just a couple years.
...Perhaps a rerun but not too dated, Kinky Friedman did the hour with Russert last night. Come on boys and girls and get with the "dewussification" of the Lone Star state. This governors race deal is for real, despite the draconian Texas ballot access laws for independents. Get on board at the campaign web site. Get Kinky in 2006. Why the hell not? (thieving Suttle's write in campaign slogan of over a year ago).
...Two days and counting until the release of ¡Viva Dictators! Pre order info listed below for those so inclined.
...Those keeping score at home will be glad to know the my Dad has also returned home if only for a long weekend. When last we spoke, he was getting ready to get cut loose from Duke Friday around noon. He will return Monday to begin another five days of in patient chemotherapy. A bite in the old IV bag, but rather encouraging in the sense that the pulmonary edema crisis has not halted or significantly altered the treatment protocol for the underlying issue. Ergo, all remain confident that this round will produce much more favorable results and that all will move forward with the stem cell transplant in August. Thanks again to everyone for their most welcome good wishes.
...Talking heads---outa here.
July 9, 2005
...With all the hectic down days of late, a small detail may have well have gone unmentioned: THE VERY VERY LONG AWAITED LIVE CD FROM THE DICTATORS, ¡VIVA DICTATORS!, WILL FINALLY BE RELEASED TUESDAY, JULY 12! Those who are really jonsing for a copy on the date of release have probably already contacted retailers as to whether they have it in stock or to order same. Those willing to wait a couple of days, can still pre-order the CD from the usual suspects (Amazon, Barnes and Noble, et al), and its the route taken by stately Roberts/Suttle Manor (we've heard these songs before a few times). One would assume that the CD will show up at some point on the band's web site, but at present, and though no fault of dear friend Karen, the band doesn't seem to really care if you buy it or not---given there is no current link on the site to affect the sale of same. Many in The Dictators underground remain hopeful that this release will be the catalyst for a bit kiss and make up at least to the point of playing a few gigs in promotion of same, but we shall see. For the uninitiated, should you think this a silly exercise, you are especially encouraged to drop the $15-20 and check it out. This has been a work in progress for four years or more, and while there may be some fair criticisms of Mr. Shernoff, no one can disagree that Adny is a brilliant producer. The product should sound great, and if so, in my humble view will be the prototypical rock n roll show---the way in which God intended the genre to be, or at least predominated by. Winning hearts and minds one by one, that is from where the converts and future Hillbilly Dictators Jihadists come. Having The Dictators around would help too.
...Gorf Rats Win! Gorf Rats Win! Lynn Rocketman Lee turned in a stellar evening. The game's first star, the Rocketman pitched a complete game win surrendering only 5(?), made several spiffy defensive plays---including two unassisted double plays and drove in 7 runs with two moon shots, the first a grand salami. Great to meet teammate Scott who assisted well in covering for a highly immobile Skipper Suttle. Really cool thing is that with the aid of the A & P stuff I can now specifically identify what hurts like hell. Regardless, happy to chip in a few RBIs and move our record to 2-1. Sunday's status is questionable. Mr. Bill, the Gorf Rats need you. Please report for duty---a comrade has fallen on the battle field. Nice to meet Grant of Expos fame, and continuing props to Commissioner Jordan for his good works. It is safe to say that Wiffle Atlanta can now be said to be officially up and running. The weather cooperating Sunday would help, and at this writing, things are looking pretty good for Wiffle fans---aside for the omnipresent summer pop up thunderstorm.
...Major entertainment opportunity tonight and the price is buyer friendly, as in free. As noted Atlanta's own dynamic Cruis-O-Matic play tonight in a six band extravaganza. Details here---the link is on the web site of the Cherry Splits, the headliner of tonight's shindig. The site is highly recommeded. The action starts at 6:00. Sounds like a real groovy happening. And speaking of Curis-O-Matic, Edward Tanner emails this morning to inform of another scheduled gig, as the band returns to Houck's Steak House in east Cobb on September 12. And, of course, there's the July 22 gig at Lenny's Bar, again featuring the Cherry Splits.
...Those darn Richmond Braves---win, win win. Watching rookies getting it done in late inning pressure situations with one eye on the Nationals score is what its all about, "BABY" (Vital, 1982). The All Star break seemed to come so soon this year, and a real pennant/wild card race is gonna happen in the NL East. Should be fun, especially because no one of any level of knowledge can offer more than mere speculation as to the likely outcome. "Let's [let them] play two."
July 8, 2005
...Rather disquieting to awaken around 5:30 yesterday morning to watch London exploding--- a true haggis churning experience, but one that I am genuinely surprised has not been played out at shopping malls and other public places around the globe over the past four years. My take had always been that attacks on the scale of the September 11th murders would be difficult to pull off with any frequency, and that "soft" targets (i.e. London mass transit) would be struck with regularity in an attempt reinforce the "terror" factor. Fortunately I've been proven wrong with the events of yesterday and those of Bali being few and far between. Memo to perpetrators: you will note the Brits behavior over the next several days. If history is a guide, they shall mourn the senseless murders of nearly 100 of their countrymen and then carry on. If its capitulation you want, look across the Channel where the fortitude of the French rivals president Sheerack's take regarding England's lack of culinary acumen.
...Wiffle Atlanta carries on this afternoon with a rare Friday twi-night doubleheader. The Gorf Rats are up second and look to move above the .500 mark, capitalizing on our one game winning streak. Delighted to report that the soreness from last Sunday's twin bill has abated just in time for this afternoon's action. Mr. Swartzberg. Mr. Bill Swartzberg, please pick up the white courtesy phone. Washing the cat is no longer a valid excuse. How freakin clean can you get a cat anyway?
...Reminder the the dynamic Atlanta Cruis-O-Matic will be making an Atlanta appearance tomorrow evening at the Mystery Inn in nearby Avondale Estates. Headlining this 5-6 band experience is the Cherry Splits. Edward Tanner explains it as a BBQ type event---sounds like a hoot and is highly recommended as a weekend happening. Next weekend our heroes return to the Double Door Inn in Charlotte before taking Cabbage Town by storm in late July (the 23rd at Lenny's Bar---Memorial Dr.).
July 6, 2005
...Late and lame have been the hallmarks of Suttle World the past several days and should reamian in such a status until further notice. No crisis of the day, rather other more pressing demands. Worthy of a passing mention is my confusion regarding the announced retirement of Justice O'Connor. First, why was anyone surprised? Her resignation, largely due to health issues, has been a slam dunk since the election was over in 2004. Second why is her resignation distinguished from that of the Chief Justice that is also forthcoming? Obviously, the Chief Justice position is open, but the left cautions us about a "moderate" replacement for O'Connor as though they'll roll over and play dead on the Rehnquist stand in. Some explanation can be found in the summer time media blues. Did I mention that I attended sixth grade with Nancy Rehnquist?
...Mark your calendars now boys and girls. The Cruis-O-Matic bash along with a bunch of other swinging bands is set for Saturday in Avondale Estates. Some details linked above in the Continuing Features, with more to come.
July 5, 2005
...After being down a couple days, Suttle World must now invoke a mulligan given the day's demands. The most salient news of the day being for those partially in the know: I am delighted to report a dramatic improvement in the status of my dad, following something of a scare over the weekend. Though still hospitalized, he is now in stable and improving condition, following an emergency admission after developing pulmonary edema. Yolanda and I greatly appreciate to care and concern expressed by those privy to the events as they unfolded Sunday and yesterday.
July 4, 2005 INDEPENDENCE DAY
...Suttle World takes yet another day off in celebration of the 229th anniversary of the birth of this potentially great nation and to tend to more pressing personal matters. You get off easy today---only another 1997 words: The Declaration of Independence.
July 3, 2005
...Play among yourselves nicely, as Suttle World takes a well deserved day off. Thanks to former neighbor and current Morganton, NC resident Peggy for stopping by yesterday, and duly admonishing me that in fact its 50,000 (not 25k) folks who will rise at 3:00 this morning to move 6.2 miles in stifling humidity. I still don't get it, but perhaps if I weren't so preoccupied with Wiffle Ball, there would be time to absorb the interest. Reports on today's Wiffle and informal soiree to come.
July 2, 2005
...Happy Birthday United States of America and brother (literally in this case) John who begins to enjoy the last year being thirty something. Should the cosmic odometer be of concern to you my friend you will find little consolation here in that I must be the much older brother whose sibling is turning 40. As to the good old U.S. of A., Suttle World goes through this every year. The Declaration was actually adopted on July 2. As to why the document is prominently dated July 4 and the happenings of the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776 remain something of a mystery. Despite very studious note taking by several of the members, there is little if any record of the body doing anything on the fourth. Regardless, it was 229 years ago today that those guys: "pledge[d] to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor." Don't recall being asked to do such any time lately, and seriously doubt that those who have not strapped on a uniform recently can claim differently. Instead I am preoccupied with paying an extra 50¢ for a gallon of gas and as to whether the cable signal goes down. Much obliged, gentlemen.
...As a veteran like John Smoltz is well aware, last night was something akin to making a thirty foot putt, in that he'd like to give back a few runs for future use. In what was a pretty decent wagering opportunity (ATL -138), the Braves got a win that you just had to figure was well over due and get a bushel basket full of runs for brother John---a realistically marginal Hall of Fame candidate and class act. The latter is noteworthy because the continuing fascination Suttle World has with with the positive correlation that exists in baseball between great players and AHF (ass hole factor). Presently or BITD, it seems odd that the greats of their eras or of all time are, for the most part, not really nice folks. Bonds, Mays, Rose, Aaron (reformed), Carlton, Clemmons: all slam dunk HOF inductees. All ass holes. Cobb, Foxx, Williams, DiMaggio: same deal, and the list could be a hell of a lot longer. And what makes it stand out even more is that the legends of the other major sports are all beloved: Michael, Namath, Unitas, Russell, Gretzky, Walt Frazier; hell, Joe Frazer. Why baseball? Just a rambling muse.
...Whew...As anticipated, the sciences offer a bit more of an academic challenge than do the liberal arts, especially in a condensed "summer" format. Southeast Asian policy is a bit easier to keep up with in a six week semester than the first half of A&P, but you pays your money and takes your chances. Held up reasonably well the first week, but hopping back on the merry go round in such abrupt fashion is bit tougher than anticipated. Just thankful for the long weekend for a chance to play catch up.
...Wiffle Atlanta plans are to push forward beginning at 2:00 Sunday afternoon. The Gorf Rats situation remains uncertain, but despite his best efforts to avoid the subject, reliable sources report that cuzin Bill will be in town. Most recent signees remain MIA---failing to respond to email and a solicited phone call. Should they not appear, there is hope in that there is talk of a small neighborhood Independence Day soiree in which there may be a rare Larry and Peggy sighting. If not, or in addition we also can rely on...
...Looking forward to a visit from nephew Ridge for the Independence Day weekend. My understanding is that his arrival is slated for mid afternoon today, with a Tuesday departure.
July 1, 2005
...Welcome to the third quarter, which, courtesy of Greenspan and the gang of 12 (or however many damn chairs there are on the Fed Policy Board and Christmas part Committee), couldn't get here soon enough. Stomping once again the hallucinated cock roach, that is non gas pump related inflation, the Fed raises the overnight rate 25 basis points the DOW quickly sheds 100 points in less than two hours. Alas it is mere rant fodder to comment on daily swings, given that such moves are only significant to the speculator, but as long as we're playing look see, yes, us Bank of America backers feel pretty smart this morning having gone against the current/Citicorp in seeking a "financials" equity. Meanwhile, despite all the micro uncontrollable twitching, the bigger picture (as in the U.S. economy as a whole) continues to perk along quite nicely, thank you. Growth at a manageable 3.8%, falling unemployment and historically cheap money (with really weird yield curves at present---which could afford this administration a Clintonesque roll of the dice by converting long term obligations into short term instruments and declaring victory over deficits). Build a couple of damn refineries and its all good.
...The good old lazy, hazy days of summer memo has yet to reach Suttle World HQ, but whining about 4 tests in less than 4 hours would be, well like whining---a commodity perceived as unneeded and unwanted by the gentle surfer as the Independence Day weekend approaches. But there's good news, and it has nothing to do with my auto insurance. In exchange for your long weekend, Suttle World asks not that the gentle surfer disrupt their slumber at 3:00 on the morning of the fourth to amble 6+ miles on an oppressive July morning. Instead, Suttle World will only ask once again that the gentle surfer revisit the 1997 words written in 1776 collectively known as the Declaration of Independence. And while I cannot personally recommend 1776 (haven't gotten that far yet), I can highly recommend most anything written by McCullough, and by all accounts, this is as compelling as any work he's done to date. Traffic may be a bear today, but a somewhat preferable to fighting a war against the world's greatest superpower in the snow without food or shoes. More sappy notions regarding liberty and such as the weekend progresses.
