Archives---June, 2005

June 30, 2005

...Friend, are you tired of your dead end, low paying job?  How would you like a chance to travel the country staying in the nation's finest hotels while earning over $300,000 a year plus generous perks and benefits?  Can you throw strikes past the 6th inning?  If so, call John, Bobby or Leo.  They're in the book---on Hank Aaron Drive downtown.  Persons currently impaired by injury or expecting the onset of one in the near future need not apply.

...The same knife used for hacking one's way through the onset of another Atlanta summer's atmosphere can be used to cut the building excitement (sort of a Swiss Army metaphor for those keeping score at home), as 25,000 warm close personal friends prepare to gather in their underwear before dawn to run six miles or so in early July.  Yes boys and girls, its Peachtree Road Race time---or Atlanta's modern day tribute to the St. Vidas dance.  But there is the big payoff:  the t-shirt; and rarely does a day pass when I am not incapacitated with worry over my selection of t-shirts---especially those that serve as loud indicators that I arose at 3:30 am on a holiday to run six miles in oppressive heat with 25,000 other psychologically impaired individuals. 

June 29, 2005

...Just enough time to comment that the President's speech last night was either singing to the choir or caterwauling to the back benchers.  Yeah, the linkage is pretty thin and it sure would be nice to know who "they" are, but, generally, President Bush was able to play the PR ball back into the center of the fairway with a well restated objective.  Again home run or can of corn depends entirely on which side of the grandstands one sits. 

June 28, 2005

...In his 2003 tome, Parliament of Whores, P. J. O'Rourke writes, "for all we know they [the Supreme Court] play naked Johnny on the Pony to decide cases."  I have yet to digest to 100+ pages of opinions regarding the two "10 Commandment" cases yesterday, but I am inclined to believe brother O'Rourke is onto something.  In addition to being a hideous mental image, it also makes for bad law and confirms another O'Rourke comment about Bob Woodward devoting an entire book to how we don't know what goes on behind closed doors on Saturdays behind the Capitol.  The 10 Commandments are nice.  Puppies are nice.  Neither belong in a court of law.  And spare me the "historical context" crap----its a freaking court house not an art gallery.  Worship who or what you want when, and I'll fight to defend your right to do so, but the potential prejudicial impact of such displays is wholly inappropriate, much like my coming to your house of worship to insist on lecturing on the merits of Miranda v. Arizona (1963).  Bring on the resignations, I'm anxious to see how the new Constitution reads.  Its real fun as it stands now what with a Parkinsons patient charged with possessing DEAD PLANTS cultivated on their own property that is being condemned because Wal-Mart thinks its a really cool location can shlep up to the court house and enjoy a multi media "religion around the world" exhibition before passing through the looking glass.  Only in America.

...The season may not bring a 14th consecutive division title, but the Richmond/Atlanta Braves are just plain fun to watch (except that bull pen thing, but that's another story).  LaRoche is on a pace to put up 100 RBIs in his rookie year, and the other farm hands seem capable of making most any evening interesting if nothing else.  Again, I'll gladly take a two game second place finish as opposed to an 18 game runaway.

...Changes continue to be discussed for Wiffle Atlanta and its season struggling to get off the canvas.  Actually that's a bad metaphor unless your talking about a fight in which one of the combatants starts unconscious in that the league has never been up to fall down and struggle to get back up yet.  No details, and uncertainty continues to swirl around Independence Day weekend and whether we can get this sucker off the ground or not.  The first edict from the newly appointed Vice President of Really Important Wiffle Stuff (GED), yours truly, is that while a more centrally located change of venues is acceptable, Chastain Park is not one of them.  Nice park (is it still air conditioned?), but a cluster fornication to navigate, especially on weekends.  More to come.

...The Suttle Index of Leading Economic Indicators is still uncertain about the $60 oil thing, excepting there is some certitude surrounding the $2+ gas deal---its a definite bite in the bag.  From a macro perspective, it appears more of a psychological barrier than any real impediment to continued growth.  There's still tons of cash laying around.  Buy equities you people!  Start with Johnson and Johnson and Bank of American and work your way down from there.  

June 27, 2005

...Cuzin Bill, duly impressed with his standing as the submitter of yesterday's SOTD follows up with a pithy revue of the somewhat obscure Yardbird's tune:

...Another Sunday of Wiffle Atlanta is washed down the storm sewer.  This time by rain that never fell and with it swept away about 60% of the Gorf Rat roster.  Normally this would be cause for concern, but that anxiety shall be reserved to such time as the league completes its third inning of play in its not so burgeoning season.

...Hi ho...How tough could three months of biology crammed into four weeks be?  Well we'll begin to find out starting at 8:00 this morning.  Let's see:  the foot bone is connected to the ankle bone...

...The weekend of August 13 is being circulated as possible dates for the First Annual Peachtree Old Fart Golf Classic.  Details to follow.

...Props to Birdie Kim first for her first tour win Andy North style:  The US Open.  Even greater props for her almost apologetic explanation that she had no thought of making making the thinly hit green side bunker shot on 18 that cemented her win.  Hey, the ball has to go somewhere.  May as well be in the bottom of the cup.  Also, props to cuzin Moke, who reports a swing epiphany and puts up a rather impressive 77 at Bobby Jones Saturday.   And as difficult as it is to imagine a 15 year old leading the Open after 54 holes, it is becoming even more difficult to imagine Michelle Wie leading after the end of any tournament,  Still I'm convinced she will successfully compete on the PGA tour before her career comes to a close.

...Quick update from the home of the University of North Carolina finds dear old dad recovering according to Hoyle following his week of chemo that ended Fathers Day.  Next step is another bone marrow biopsy and forward from there---probably into the stem cell transplant phase of his treatment.

...Our friends at the Internal Revenue Service will be pleased to know that our 2003 tax return has been completed, signed and will be posted today.  Just watch the mailbox guys.  It should be there by mid week latest.  Speaking of which, the Flat Tax book, authored by Neal Boortz and Congressman John Linder is set for release August 12 and has already reached to top of the charts on Amazon and Barnes and Noble's web sites.

June 26, 2005

...This just in.  Mama sells the farm, or something like that.  Details to come.

...Suppose a phone call at a more decent hour will reveal what I hope to be the inaugural outing for the Gorf Rats.  As of Friday the ball club added Lynn and Dean colleague Scott Bowen (I was hoping for Sidney Portiere of some such, but there's always a "Cap'n, I'm geeven her all she's got!" line to be had).  Brief rain fell in Tucker this morning, and there is a threat of showers throughout the day, but its been a dry week, so me thinks we may finally get some oh-ficile Wiffling in this afternoon.  Anxious spectators of the spectacle are welcome.  The venue is the athletic field at Tucker Middle School (the irony is obvious and requires no comment).  All good Bat Boys and Bat Girls are advised that having fun here is the prime directive from Bat Headquarters.  And all this give and take about rules is a moot point.  "This is my life, its not a phase.  They don't understand, I take it like a man....They're all going under the thunder of MANITOBA©."  ©---Copy write Handsome Dick Manitoba, Shernoff Music and anybody else that wants attribution in exchange for not initiating litigation.

...Speaking of the seemingly now defunct Dictators a couple of issues come to mind.  First, the band itself has fessed up the a release date of July 12 for the live CD.  The web site doesn't give us many clues as to how to purchase same, but I'm sure the distribution logistics will be worked out.  "See, what yoose do is take the number 4 train to Washington Heights.  Go to 487 Utica Avenue and ask for Mike.  Fifteen bucks take it or leave it, and bring exact fucking change for chrissake."   Now on to another somewhat related issue of great import.  Those rumors or stories your may or may not have heard over the past few months are true in the sense that CBGB could be forced to closed its doors at the end of August.  31 years of launching artists who I dare say have had as much impact as Julliard over the same period would seem a cause worthy of getting involved.  The link is here, but basically the lease on the club runs out August 31.  The owners are a "charitable" homeless group that uses the remainder of the building (the infamous Palace Hotel) as a shelter.  They want to expand the shelter into the club's space.  This, of course, is a crime against nature and should be stopped if at all possible.  Those who are of the same opinion may link to the save CBGBs here.  I would especially encourage snail mail correspondence with any elected officials they may mention.  A lot of letters from all over the world could indeed have a positive impact.  Losing a true shrine (nasty as it is) would be a shame, but I'm also mindful that the vaunted Madison Square Garden is currently sitting on its third different location.

June 25, 2005

...All this talk about replacements for retiring justices on the Supreme Court seems a bit premature, especially when we can savor the amusement as the Supremes play this term's version of Fuck the Constitution.  First, the genius nine gives the Feds the okay to squash medical marijuana.  The case involved a California woman who grew and the possessed the DEAD PLANT for her own personal use.  In a decision that would score a 10 in a Special Olympics mental gymnastics meet, the court decided the interstate commerce clause was involved, allowing Federal law to trump that of the several states even though the case involved one state and no commerce.  It gets better:  later in the term, the Court decided to administer a rectal thermometer to the western world to decide the issue of executing minors.  Great, the social norms of Lithuania now govern the interpretation of the Constitution.  Then we get to this week's coup d  gras or, the Honey, I shrunk the Personal Property Rights.  Eminent domain has always been a troubling issue.  A necessary evil if you will, but with the 5-4 decision this week all bets are off and no one owns any property as the government is welcome to condemn it for any reason.  Own a home on a couple acres of land?  Well, start packing, for all it takes is a developer to approach your local officials and explain that he can build 8 homes on the same piece of property and increase tax revenues 10 fold on the same plat.  That's math that even elected officials can factor, especially since they have long mastered the equation that more tax revenue = more votes to buy.  And we've still got the Ten Commandments case to decide.  My guess, the court will mandate (through the interstate commerce clause) that every citizen have a religious icon tattooed to their forehead.

...The NBA takes a deserved, albeit somewhat obligatory, beating about the head and shoulders from Suttle World, but the league put on a good show Thursday night---or at least the second half that I saw.  Props to the Spurs and Tim Duncan for his third playoff MVP.  Am I mistaken or wasn't Duncan the young man from the Atlantic Coast Conference school who stayed all four years to graduate?  Also, props to the Pistons---truly squeezing out every ounce of what by many measures are limited skills.  I'm squarely affixed to the Larry Brown bandwagon, and fully believe he is the reason the Pistons have gone as far as they have each of the past two years; but I must once again be mistaken, because I seem to recall he also graduated from an ACC school in Chapel Hill.  Yes, you can lob back with a Rasheed.  You can also do your Bobby Hurley/Iggy Pop impersonation and flop on your ass.

June 23, 2005

...The National Basketball Association will crown a new champion tomorrow morning sometime before 1:00.  Should you feel an uncanny excitement in the air, duck and cover or head for the nearest fire exit because its not being caused by anticipation of the Pistons/Spurs match up.

...With all sutures now removed, my mouth hole can finally embark on a full recovery and become more amenable to the new tooths that, as expected, have been of little use over the past week.

...Seems to me the president would be well served by booking some face time via a national address from the Oval Office.  The White House's agenda on issues both foreign and domestic  are being perceived as disjointed and/or successful, and a quick Al Haig "I'm in control here" type speech would seem to be in order.  It won't increase the limited skills of the Republican leadership on Capitol Hill nor decrease the number of twenty somethings returning to Edwards in flag draped coffins, but it might make folks feel better; and who doesn't want to feel better?  Just keep repeating to yourself (silently if you don't care for a 72 hour sabbatical on Grady's 8th floor):  "there's no $10 trillion debt.  There's no $10 trillion debt."

June 22, 2005

...So there will be a deciding game seven for the only piece of pro hardware handed out in early summer (what with the Stanley Cup on vacation and such---again, the Classic Village people stand at the ready to provide a nice home for the Cup while yall work things out).  Suttle World does care, but remains unsure as to whether that caring will extend to remembering to flip the TV over upon my return home Saturday night around 10:30 or so.  Like so many others, the NBA is selling a product with which I am not really in synch.  I was a much bigger pro hoops fan 30+ years ago than today, but this is their true showcase, so we'll try to remember to turn it on and pray for the strength to stay awake until the conclusion.  So far, the game is off the board at most sports books.  One is inclined to believe that the Spurs will win it given they are the superior team playing at home, but its tough to bet against Larry Brown, the defending champions and a chance for Carolina boy gone astray Rasheed Wallace to greatly improve his good citizenship status.

...I first wrote a mass emailing and then pulled back thinking it a bit too intimate, so I'll take this opportunity to set the record straight for the few who peruse this page on a regular basis.  In doing so, I can save many the tedium of having to go through this several dozen times with folks who may or may not be aware of any vague references I may make here, in email or conversation regarding my dad and his well being.  My father, Bill Suttle---a resident of the home of the 2005 NCAA Basketball Champion Chapel Hill, NC.,  is ill.  Dad was diagnosed with myelodysplasia several months ago following lab work from a routine physical.  This particular unsavory condition is a rather serious blood disorder akin to leukemia.  Fortunately the diagnosis was made in the crucial early onset stage of the disease and in the interim Dad and Mary have been working with the folks at Duke to map out his care which will include a stem cell transplant in July if all goes as planned.  Dad was released from Duke this past Sunday following a week of inpatient chemotherapy.  This treatment is a precursor to the stem cell procedure that will be done on an out patient basis (if at all possible) and is very similar to a bone marrow transplant in terms of the general protocol.  I had the pleasure of "visiting" this past weekend and tried to lend a little aid and comfort.  He's doing remarkably well for man who has just had a week's worth of high tech Draino run through him, and has shown few side effects excepting the anticipated fatigue and some bouts with nausea.  The next couple of months are going to be difficult to say the least, but everyone is confident of a successful outcome on the other side of this ordeal.

...Riddle me this fellow Hillbilly Dictators Jihadists (and you wannabes---you know who you are).  If The Dictators live CD is indeed released July 12, do I take my copy and get Ross to sign it at the Brain Surgeons ATL show?  Along the same lines, the benevolent still have plenty of time to buy a 7 day advance ticket for the poor, crippled, toothless boy to get to NYC and back for the MC5/DKT with (with special guest HDM) June 30.  Don't even need a hotel room.  Fly in that morning, catch the gig at the park, hang at Manitoba's til closing time.  Get some breakfast and head out to Newark for a early Sunday return flight.  The send me money link is still alive and well on the home page.  Frequent flyer miles also gladly accepted.

...Late to the party due the past weekend's doings, but our beloved Cubs go down in the third and final game of the Warrendale Little League semi-finals.  Congratulations on your post season win, and turning in a second half about which you can really be proud.  Special props to cuzin Sal and his ilk for their tireless efforts in preserving the game of baseball by passing it down to the next generation in a most appropriate manner.  Of course July is on the way, and though it will be most hectic, my schedule should allow for a fair amount of Little League World Series watching.  I enjoy it much more than the now ongoing NCAA World Series.

June 21, 2005

...Yep been away a few days boys and girls, and no, it has nothing to do with that parole thing.  Just got caught out of town a couple of extra days and happily so.  Of course, the time spent idling about the the Tar Heel state comes at the expense of playing catch up in a big way beginning at the conclusion of this paragraph.  In what would appear to becoming a thematic 2005, I had the pleasure of spending Fathers Day with my own dear old dad, much as I had the opportunity to perform a similar fete Mothers Day.  The trip to Plymouth Rock for Thanksgiving will be great in that we'll get to see cuzin Sal, but that shlep to the North Pole to hook with Santa at Christmas is going to be a bitch.  More updates on the goings, comings, and doings as time permits.  "The party starts now!"

...Speaking of which the morning's other noteworthy mention comes via Wisconsin from fellow Hillbilly Dictators Jihadist Steve Tully who reports via unnamed sources, that the very much anticipated Dictators live CD "Viva Dictators" is set for release July 12.  Cuzin Sal confirms the report from Boston via cuzin Rob who had seen a similar reference on another unnamed web site.  Of course, the band has failed to mention this to dutiful web maven Karen Lanza, but no need to hit the panic button or anything.  Well, I look forward to my copy, the visit of Ross later in July and many other fond memories and ongoing friendships, but me thinks it would not be premature to "call" the Dictators; or perhaps we're to be admonished by the sage advice provided by the "Holy Grail" in that "I'm not dead yet."

June 17, 2005

...Well the bad news:  our heroes, the Warrendale LL Cubs, dropped a heartbreaker 12-11 in 12 innings---resuming the game from Tuesday night when play was suspended at 10 all after 10 innings.  The good news is that the Cubbies took the nightcap 4-3 in 7 innings.  The deciding game three to earn a birth into the World Series is tomorrow (Sat) at 5:30.   Hang in there guys and gals---glory is but a short six innings away!

...9 players in red numbers after the first round of the US Open at Pinehurst should make for an interesting cut.  A cursory look at the leader board shows a lot of Andy North like folks along with current Suttle World fave KJ Choi! Today's TV coverage runs the same as yesterday---ESPN 10:00-3:00; then NBC takes over 3-5; and then back to ESPN at 5:00.  Today's last group tees off about 2:30.

...It would appear as though mother nature will finally cooperate with Wiffle Atlanta and allow play to begin this Sunday.  The league has now expanded to five teams---resulting in a bye week for the Gorf Rats---a welcome respite given the Open and Sunday being a High Holy Day on the sports calendar. 

June 16, 2005

...Little to bring today as the patient continues to recover from yesterday's little more than minor surgical procedure.  Today its off to the dentist to check out the work and make any necessary adjustment to my fine newly fabricated prosthetic teeth.  So, just play nice among yourselves as I take the day off from cyberland. 

...Sunday, the fourth of the five High Holy Days of the sports calendar approaches quickly as play is underway at Pinehurst No. 2 for the 2005 US Open.  Interesting and probably true, Phil Mickelson says he's hoping for a tricked up course where nobody can hit greens because of his superior short game.  Can't disagree and also couldn't disagree with Tiger winning this and making the British Open (the final round of which is the last High Holy Day of the year) that much more compelling.

...Lilburn, "the town that looks as ugly as it sounds," is now leading the metro area in amusing signage.  First we have the gas/quickie mart deal with a sign that says in part "dollar store and internet cafe."  But yesterday, at a strip center on Lawrenceville Highway to pick up a Rx there she was:  The big facade anchored sign read:   "Everything 89¢."  Below it hang a banner:  "Moving Sale---Everything 79¢."

June 15, 2005

...The National Association of Insomniacs reports that the Detroit Pistons won this morning's NBA Final game 3 and now trail the series with the Spurs two games to one.  Further intelligence indicates the game (a minor distraction from grand event itself) started somewhere around 10:30 following an hour and a half tribute to mayonnaise featuring Rula Lenska and Charles Nelson Riley.

...I have long related that I own well over a dozen radios and have no idea if the FM band works on any of them.  Yesterday confirmed why I have not ventured to flip the switch from the AM side.  Maneuvering the Hajmobile around the northern burbs yesterday evening, I was treated to an inadvertent  FM delight.  Did you know tickets are still available for the Stevie Nicks and Don Henley show at the Gwinnett Arena?  Hard to believe, but true, especially when one considers that Daffy Duck is also on the bill.  The "show" is tomorrow night and tickets are a mere $56, $76 and $101.  Obviously the ticket buying public just doesn't realize a bargain when its right under the nose (which would require the obligatory clothes pin if attending to diminish the stench).

...Not too long ago (or at least it seems that way) one couldn't swing a dead cat by the tail in this town without hitting a courier (or being hit by one---the courier, not a dead cat).  Anecdotal evidence this week would indicate there is now a shortage of folks running stuff around.  Yolanda reported Monday that the courier service she uses is short on folks and then yesterday, the good Dr. Harvey's office called explaining that my fine newly fabricated store bought teeth could not be delivered to the oral surgeon's office for today's procedure.  They could get the choppers to the good Dr. Harvey's office (DDS) who called to ask if I could possibly pick up the "teeth" and take them with me this morning.  No problem---they're only 5 minutes away.  So there I go yesterday afternoon to pick up my tooths and merrily carried them home in a bag similar to Chinese take-out (a rather complex metaphor if you give it some thought).

...Uncertain if it was time or weather, but the anxiety builds as the Warrendale Little League Cubbies and Pirates suspended the first game of their best of three playoff series tied at 10 last night.  Play is scheduled to resume Thursday.  Bartender, another round of Maalox for cuzin Sal.

...US Open coverage tee minus 24 hours and counting.

June 14, 2005

...At last a saving Grace from the Michael Jackson circus/trial in the form of Nancy Grace.  Watching her teeter on the verge of a stroke last night on CNN was about as entertaining as it gets.  Jackson is weird.  Grace is a maniac.  No doubt, she's a very nice lady who ensures her dog gets enough cheese in his diet. But thank god she's out of the prosecution business (crucifixion via TV is easier and pays better) in which she enjoyed a very successful career here in good old Fulton County.  Someone of the mindset that the means justify the ends---with the end being that anyone (at least males) accused of any crime by anyone is guilty and should be hanged behind the courthouse before sundown is a bit frightening.  Another possible positive outcome of this ordeal could emerge from the endless video of the crowds gathered outside the courthouse and La-La-Land.  With high-tech identification systems now in place, each of these folks can be ID'd and stricken from the voter registration rolls. 

...The Warrendale Little League Cubbies win their first post season game 10-2 over the Red Sox.  Advancing beyond this point will prove a more difficult task, but this is a team that has been to the World Series each of the last two seasons, falling one game shy of repeating as champions in 2004.  This evening the Cubbies take on the Pirates as the single elimination playoffs continue.

...Further intelligence from greater Boston indicates the Brain Surgeons inaugural gig of their US tour was less than ideal.  They've got six weeks to straighten things out before hitting the Italian restaurant in Alpharetta (The North End).  We will hope for more pleasing results and look forward to a meet and greet with Ross the Boss regardless.

June 13, 2005

...Just getting around to it, but it is indeed very unfortunate about the disappearances and apparent murders of two young Americans in the Caribbean in the past couple of weeks.  The story has all the headline grabbing elements in that it involves two separate incidents of young, white girls as victims.  We lose 20,000+ to murder in this country each year not to mention the scores of folks killed and maimed on the battlefield, but we can't be bothered with the details of those happenings---excepting perhaps Jessica Lynch who ironically also meets to profile---young, pretty, blond girl.

...Annika Sorenstam is far and away the biggest story in golf this year and perhaps the biggest story in sports, but is it fair to say the women actually have a grand slam when no one can call the name of one of the four events?  Yeah, bottom to top, its a thin field, but she just keeps beating everyone else who wants to stick the tee in the ground.  And yes, props to young Michelle Wie on her second place finish in the LPGA Championship, but she is quickly becoming an Anna Pornakova deal with more game and less looks----how about winning something first and then come play with the big boys and girls.

...Moving to the second tee, we have the US Open ready to crank up Thursday at Pinehurst No. 2.  Mike Lupica makes a good point when he calls out "the committee" and how they take such pride in making the course unplayable, but that is part of the Open.  We enjoy seeing the androids sweat a three footer, but at the same time an Open track shouldn't require a completely different game than that played the remainder of the year.  Different story with the British Open---goes with the territory---literally.

...Wiffle Atlanta is rained out once again.  Commissioner Jordan is attempting to make corrections and there should be play this weekend---weather permitting.  Its just not going to happen Sunday afternoon when the leaders are starting to tee it up in the final round of the previously mentioned Open Championship.

...Well if Howard Dean's recent remarks don't reveal the core of the Democrat's base, Barney Frank's comments on Meet the Press yesterday certainly do.  In a discussion about the current real estate "bubble" the Congressman says, "the free market isn't working...people are making stupid [real estate] investments..."  If that doesn't say it all in a nutshell.  Yeah, you've got the gumption to earn money, but you just don't have what it takes to handle the cash once its in your hands, so first the government puts you one an allowance (withholding taxes) and then tells you you're stupid in the manner with which you piddle away the rest.  And all this from the genius who says he was clueless about the gay prostitution ring being run out of the basement of his DC townhouse.  Meanwhile, Senator Clinton continues to furiously bake cookies for the next Yankees fan club meeting at the American Legion.

...Far from the greatest takes, but for a 5:30a-10:30p day starter.

June 12, 2005

...No word at this writing on the fate of Wiffle Atlanta's Opening Day II---ironically up in the air due to weather that mandated the do-over in the first place.  My own inspection of the playing surface this morning does not hold out much hope for play, but that's a decision for Commissioner Jordan.  A postponement would actually work in the Gorf Rats favor given last night's call from Mr. Bill in New Orleans.  Newly signed Dean Marten is out of town also, and Larry continues to wander in the great not so white north---yet to be found be searching troups of Boy Scouts and rescue dogs.

...Unveiled by Suttle World for God and everybody, its the previously cryptic mention of the First Annual Old Fart Golf Classic.  The link speaks for itself, but in overview, its the first in what is to become an autumnal tradition of at least four folks hooking up in western NC to mix in a plethora of little dimpled ball in the hole activities in the quest to determine the grand sweepstakes winner and wearer of the ugly thrift store sport coat.  The last piece of the puzzle is when in August or early September, and feelers are currently out among participants for times (a 3 day affair) that work into their own pressing schedules.

...Afleet Alex is obviously the superior three year old this year, showing an entirely different gear yesterday evening at Belmont as they headed around the last turn.  A very impressive showing, but not much of a wagering opportunity at 6:5.  No, I didn't get my picks in before post time, but be assured you would have lost your $20----guaranteed.

June 11, 2005

...The 136th Belmont Stakes is set for an approximate post of 6:38.  Suttle has yet to do his homework.  The past performances sit printed out next to me, but I have not found the motivation to ensure you can get some money losing advice.  Look for updates later today. 

...Due for a change in fortune, the fledgling Wiffle Atlanta will surely be able to get Opening Day II in as the expected pm thunderstorms dodge greater Tucker.

...Great to see the Richmond Braves getting such big coverage.  I'm too lazy to do the math would be more than willing to wager that the cumulative major league service of last night's starting lineup did not equal that of Julio Franco.  I always said I like minor league baseball, well looks like I'm gonna get my fair share for the time being.

...Game two of the NBA Finals tomorrow night at 9:00!  BITD the Finals were relegated to tape delay shown after the local 11:00 news.  Now the league is choosing a similar time slot.  Yeah, I know I have an east coast bias, but this is freakin Sunday!  The fourth quarter won't begin until after 11:30 (EDT).

...Word has the Lanza's hooking up with cuzin Sal this evening in New Haven for the first gig on the Brain Surgeons U.S. tour.  We wish them a festive evening, and greatly anticipate the July 31 Atlanta date.  Given the tepid response to a Memphis hookup, we'll probably mix in Nashville as well.

June 10, 2005

...In keeping with the mantra of "what we need is the handsomest man in rock n roll." what Wiffle Atlanta needs is tropical storm Arlene.  Yes, boys and girls, after a month of Sunday's that have included rain, mother nature is promising to keep up the good work by spritzing greater Tucker with showers for Opening Day II.  Recently signed Dean Marten will be unable to play due to travel, but Lynn, Rocketman, Lee has already committed as has cuzin Bill, so we'll field at least the minimum of three for our second seminal outing.

...Reminder that the mighty Cruis-O-Matic will be banging out the hits tonight at Houck's Steak House in east Cobb.  Music starts around 9:00.

...Another reminder of the Belmont tomorrow and that this time next week play will be well under way in the U.S. Open being played this year at Pinehurst.

...The call has gone forward to all members of the Hillbilly Dictators Jihad for a rendezvous in Memphis in early August to bask in the glory of Elvis and Ross the Boss, as the Brain Surgeons hit town on the Sunday the 12th.  It is indeed a mind numbing synergy that will require time to fully digest.  Updates as the responses file in. 

June 9, 2005

...First the big news: Cruis-O-Matic gig set for tomorrow, Friday, June 10 at Houck's in Marietta.  Edward Tanner advises the last minute pick up will run from 9:00-12:00 at the popular east Cobb eatery/watering hole.  Edward also advises a bunch of new numbers have been added to the set list.  My attendance is still uncertain, but definitely recommended to all.  There are two other Atlanta gigs---July 9 and 29---see above in "Continuing Features"

...Several loose ends to gather together this morning.

...Wiffle Atlanta, the official league of the Dirt Square Gorf Rats, has decided on a re-do of the entire embryonic season.  I think this is a good call on the part of Commissioner Jordan, given the difficulties with personnel and weather the past month.  So...Opening Day II is set for this Sunday, June 12.  The Gorf Rats take on the Expos in game one, with the Pirates and Avengers mixing it up in the night cap.  Play is at Tucker Middle School.

...Belated props to neighbor Jake Lovvorn and his fellow Scrappers for their Rehoboth Baptist Church baseball league championship---furthering the DUFFLE motto of "where champions just happen to live."  Team photo here.

...Speaking of DUFFLE---its six weeks or so until camps open and pre season play begins.  If the league is going to carry forth (and it is my expectation that it will), we may well need to recruit an owner or two.  I'll be trying to get a head count over the course of the next week or so.

...No travel this weekend which works out well for the parties on both ends.  The wonderful Chevrolet sedan snatch is delayed a couple of weeks, but such is the price one pays for fame and glory.

...Two days to the Belmont, and I'm as clueless about the final jewel of the Triple Crown at this point as was the case with the other two.  Still, I'll no doubt print the gratis past performances from the Daily Racing Form and give you great advice on how to lose $20.

June 8, 2005

...Welcome aboard Judge Brown.  For various reasons of great import at least forty members of the United States Senate have seen your confirmation to the bench as an affront to God and man, but today its all good and you get a nifty robe and gavel to bang.  And for anyone who has any question what constitutes "unusual circumstances" in the confirmation cluster fornication are advised it equals Supreme Court nominee.

...From bemoaning the Braves fate to great encouragement.  First, they bounce back to beat the Anaheim of southern California in the great Golden State near the New Mexican border, convenient to shopping, schools and Disneyland Angels 3-2 last night following the Estrada affair, but Horacio Ramirez throws behind Darin Erstad to begin the game.  This is direct forensic evidence of big nads---a critical factor for a ball club that is running thin in the talent department.

...Busy, busy, busy.  Play nice among yourselves.

June 7, 2005

...OK, so I forgot about game seven, but I'm awake now and have a fair degree of positive anticipation regarding the beginning of the NBA Finals Thursday.  The Pistons defend their championship?  Pretty long odds when viewing the landscape a couple of years ago.

...The Braves situation is not good.  Others have been admonished that certain problems (i.e. the bullpen) would take care of themselves as uncle John moved folks around in June; but now it would appear that the ball club will be without Chipper the rest of the season and the jury remains out on Estrada following last night's collision.  But if this puts some drama into the season, so be it.  After 13 in a row, I'd trade losing the division by a game or so over another 18 game runaway.

...The dog days of news appear to be starting early this year with little chortle fodder.  Perhaps it will cut a wide swath for some attention to the release of Linder and Boortz's Fair Tax book.  Release and subsequent tour set for early August.

...Brain Surgeons gig minus 55 days and counting.  More on the July 9 Cruis-O-Matic gig and its accoutrements as the time nears. 

June 6, 2005

...Once again mother nature failed to cooperate and Wiffle Atlanta's, ostensibly, fourth week was postponed due to weather.  Commissioner Jordan made the call via email shortly after 2:30 as a super cell pounded Tucker and Stone Mountain with an inch or more of rain.  On the scene reports from Tucker Middle School indicated the playing field to be in poor condition following the downpour, as I offered to meet up with my dutiful fellow Gorf Rats Lynn and Dean to at least knock it around given their stellar show-up efforts.  I was headed out the door when the rain started and then ready to depart when it had nearly quit for the 3 minute commute upon learning of the cancellation and informing others via cell phone.  Props again for Dean and Lynn for showing.  Logic would indicate that while physically possible, it is statistically improbable for heavy rain to fall each Sunday from here on out.

...60 Minutes is a great segue into the second longest running comedy on television:  The Simpson's.  Last night they stumble all over the prescription drug cost "issue," and never once touch on what is the basis for varying price points in varying parts of the world.  Country's other than the United States "negotiate" bulk pricing from drug companies and use funds from the general fund to do so.  Canada, for example demands that it buy drug X from Merck at a price of Y, or Canadians will not have access to drug X.  In addition, Merck may not sell drug X to any Canadian at any price in any private purchase arrangement.  This is called subsidizing drug prices with taxpayer dollars and extortion in some neighborhoods---much like you trying to drive a truck full of Georgia vine ripe tomatoes across the George Washington Bridge into Manhattan to sell for a tidy profit.  Be advised that several very persuasive men will wish to discuss the matter with you should you attempt any such endeavor.  The bottom line is that drugs are "cheaper" in other countries because they're subsidized on the wholesale level.  A point that seems to escape most folks including the 60 Minutes crowd.  So, the answer is to buy one's maintenance prescriptions from overseas.  That's fine.  If the taxpayers of Canada or Spain are stupid enough to subsidize your need for pharmaceuticals, no problem.  But here's where the drug industry becomes equally disingenuous.  They claim importation is unsafe.  The truth is that they can't afford the double hit of having their price manipulated twice---first by Canada on the wholesale level and then by Americans on the retail level by buying it from a subsidized source.  Its a legitimate concern, but doesn't sell well in this era of the "evil drug company."  Though a complex issue, it is one that on average, an individual will have an extra twenty years over which to worry due directly to the output of the pharmaceutical industry.

...Those who buy and/or rent detached single family dwellings in established quiet neighborhoods in a reasonable location need not pay attention to any of the babblings about a real estate bubble.  Those who are elbow deep in leveraged property attempting to beat the market deserve what your get.  Bust off a call to the Hunt brothers and ask them how that silver thing is working out.  Meanwhile, the market remains maddeningly stupid in its lack of direction.  Sure big Al and the Fed have to calm down (and would appear to be prepared to do so)---otherwise, there's not a bad economic indicator out there, save $2/gal gasoline (in an economy increasingly energy independent---as a % of GDP).

June 5, 2005

...How many writers for the Simpson's come to work tomorrow armed with a take on dragging a geriatric Wal-Mart greeter through the parking lot?  See, I can come up with the easy ones all by myself in that there are few from whom to thieve on a Sunday morning.

...Defacto opening day for the Dirt Square Gorf Rats.  Meteorological prognosticators indicate we should be able to get both games in without difficulty.  Though unsure of exactly who we play, I am pretty certain we're up second---allowing for a leisurely arrival.  Props to Lynn for showing at TMS yesterday afternoon.  Look forward to Mr. Bill and Dean mixing it in this afternoon as we make our move towards the championship.  CHOI!

...Chance to catch Commander Cody last night in Virginia-Highlands/Blind Willie's with Moke, Mr. Bill and buddy Lyndon.  This was Moke's baby, but he admitted to being a bit disappointed in what we all agreed to be a rather poor job of sound mixing.  Surprising and puzzling for a room that would seem to lend itself to a superior sound experience.  Still the band was very good, and dude is still selling it after more than a few gigs such as last night.  Good time had by all.

...Having proven ourselves through the studious procession of a coveted, priceless piece of hardware such as the DUFFLE Cup---erroneously engraved or not, when it gets to its destination---the mo fo stays there, undisturbed by any force of man or nature, save addle ness and laziness.  The point is that since no one is using the Stanley Cup so why don't they put it in our charge?  As stated, we're pretty good at looking after trophies and could pass it household to household---each to to hold a "dip of the week" party served in Lord Stanley's generous offering.  Just a thought.

...Somewhere on cable there's got to be an Andy Rooney Office Makeover show.  Let's get those cards and letters going boys and girls.  A re-do is definitely in order.

June 4, 2005

...Making progress---pics from the are up and ready for your viewing pleasure.  At this writing I have neglected to include the final stop on our leg home---The Big Ass/Peach in Gaffney, SC.  Will affect change ASAP.

...A bit late, but if you hadn't heard, the Trenton Titans are the holders of the coveted Kelly Cup this year, having defeated the Florida Everblades Wednesday night to win the best of seven game championship series 4-2.  And so ends hockey as we know it for another season.  The future to the NHL remains very much in doubt, but I'm fairly certain the Gladiators will be dropping the puck come October.

...Weather permitting, the Gorf Rats, or a goodly portion thereof, are supposed to hook up this afternoon at Tucker Middle School (we gotta come up with a name for the ballpark) for a meet and greet with new signees Linwood and Dean.  Tomorrow the Gorf Rats get the second game against the unknown commodity that is the Expos.

June 3, 2005

...Gone fishin'/insert lame excuse here.  Just obligatory updates for the present with a weekend rich with takes of all kinds expected.

June 2, 2005

...Most everybody appeared happy with that European Union thing until it came down to voting on same.   EU Constitution ratifiers are as scarce as French personal hygiene at this point in the game.  Yeah, some sort of economic federation makes sense, but its interesting to note human nature would seem to transcend even to more socialist environments than the U.S. when it comes to maintaining a high degree of sovereignty.

...Uncertain if Sunday is Opening Day II for Wiffle Atlanta or not, but the schedule is set and weather permitting the newly revamped Dirt Square Gorf Rats will take on the dreaded Avengers in the second game Sunday.  The venue is Tucker Middle School, with the first game set to begin at 3:00.  There is talk of a team meeting (literally) on Saturday.  Members of the Gorf Rat nation will be kept up to speed via email.  In the meantime, teams and/or players are still being solicited.  Contact Commissioner Jordan at Wiffle Atlanta for details.

June 1, 2005

...Big Gorf Rat News!!!!  The Dirt Square franchise is proud to announce the signing of Mr. Lynwood Lee and his associate Dean Martin.  This would seem apropos given we had to trade Dan'l Boon for a bat several weeks ago.  Attempts to contact Jerry Lewis have been unsuccessful to date.  With nephew Ridge being optioned to Calhoun earlier this week, this gives the Gorf Rats a regular five with which to represent on any given Sunday.  Weather permitting we intend to get together Saturday for a short team meeting and "work" out in preparation for Sunday's action, which, weather permitting, will be the first full week of play we've been able to achieve.

...No, pics for the 2005 Summer Fun Extravaganza have yet to be posted---hey, I've got doctors to see and academics with which to catch up.  Today should prove no different on the hectic scale as Suttle tries to get his Chemistry ducks in a row.

...So it was Mark Felt that was Deep Throat as suggested by Al Haig (himself rumored to be the source).  Sure the profile doesn't match what Woodward and Bernstein described, but we've got to keep in mind that Bob Woodward was the guy who got Bill Casey to come out of an end life coma to spill his guts about the evil US government.  Still it gives closure to the 30 year old secret and another person to toast come August 4---the 31st anniversary of Nixon's resignation.

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