Archives---December, 2005
December 28, 2005
...Nicholson's Funeral Home of Front Street in Statesville, NC will provide arrangements for the funeral of Mrs. Lois Carson. The family will receive friends at Nicholson's from 12:30-1:30 Saturday afternoon followed by a short graveside service at 2:00. Obituaries at this writing are incomplete and have yet to be published.
December 28, 2005
...It is with deep regret that I announce the death of maternal grandmother Lois "Tootie" Carson overnight from complications of cancer. She was 90. No final arrangements have been made at this time, but services and burial will be in Statesville, NC. She is survived by daughter Pat Carson, son John Carson and 5 grandchildren.
December 27, 2005
...It truly was a most pleasant Christmas trip in spite of a seemingly endless string of infirmities that attempted to interfere First, props once again to the good folks at the Northlake Regional Medical Center. Ended up in their ER Saturday morning (all the doc in a boxes were closed) where I was quickly processed, appropriately treated and released by an MD who got it: geezers have better things to do than hang around ERs on Christmas Eve to try to Jones drugs. "Doc: my back is killing me, and I gotta get out of town for the holidays." MD: "here, have a chest x-ray and some narcotics." Well done, as has been our previous experiences with this community urgent care/ER facility. Turned out to be overkill, but that beats being in the middle of nowhere on Christmas morning paralyzed by pain and no one to call or see. In the interim, the ouch factor has declined as the pill eating and rest protocol continues.
...Suttle's big Christmas haul, presented Saturday so that it might be enjoyed on the trip up, was Sirius Radio. My bride who was kind enough to be the giver misinterpreted remarks last week on this page regarding the viability of satellite radio to be synonymous with opinion about programming content. Not at all---not sure its going to be commercially successful, but its fun nonetheless---like Putt Putt or duckpins. Caught Manitoba last night. Should continue to be lots o fun. And yes, its fully transportable---from home to car, etc...---utilizing a low end FM frequency for broadcast (as in: "hey good looking, we'll be back to pick you up later."). Also obvious from our brief exposure is that Sirius needs to hire me. I come a lot cheaper than Stern and bring more personality than many of the drones heard so far. Alas, need to launch radio GINO first---the rest will take care of itself.
...A delayed visit is expected today by niece Jessica who comes through for a day or two en route back to school in Savannah. No word if nephew Ridge is going to make the trip as well, but hope to see him too. Regardless, the school year starts January 3 where radio RIDGE is going to begin broadcasting on channel 13---all edumacation all the time.
...Three graphs---not bad for just getting back into the swing with the continuing onset of debilitating circumstances, but the takes should become clearer as the hydrocodone runs out over the next several days. Hey, its the freakin' holidays anyway, and I don't see you publishing any brilliant takes anywhere.
December 25, 2005
...Closed for the holidays. Updates as necessary. Merry Christmas. Be me cheesy.
December 24, 2005
...Merry Christmas and all that---unfortunately just cursory updates as Mr. Back has decided to be most disagreeable this morning. Timing is everything: require medical attention on a Christmas Eve Saturday. "Brilliant!"
December 23, 2005
...The holiday grind continues at stately Roberts/Suttle Manor with loins in their full upright and girded positions in preparation for the arrival for Christmas. If not mentioned, there will be a weekend jaunt to the western North Carolina satellite headquarters of Suttle World. Props to those who have volunteered to service the petting zoo in our absence.
...Mac daddy TV's have fallen in price further than we had expected---having speculated prices would truly begin to bottom out at the end of '05-Super Bowl '06 and would appear to have another 25-30% to go before reaching bottom. No hurry here at stately Roberts/Suttle Manor, but maybe this time next year. The wait will also allow the VHS/Betamax wars to be settled.
...Dats it for now...without objection, permission to revise and extend my remarks. Without objection, so ordered.
December 22, 2005
...Two Tamiflu resistant cases of the avian flu have been diagnosed in Vietnam. A bug being resistant to an anti viral regime is one thing, but a virus mutating to get around the drug this quickly could well be cause for concern. I'll take respiratory pathologies for $600 please, Alex.
...Just in case it may have begun to fade from your memory over the past several weeks, the fish tank is still open---its right next to the World of Coke Ant Farm, you can't miss it.
...If I were a taller, faster person with superior skating skills and greater athletic ability, I could have had one hell of a non-descript career in the NHL.
...What if the EU, U.S., China, India and Russia shut down the bulk of government operations for a few years? What sort of economy would a truly unfettered market create by 2010? One that is not frozen by hesitation---of that Suttle World is fairly certain. One that is not preoccupied by the weather forecast for Philadelphia next week.
...Suttle World sends its condolences and shares the grief of the gentle surfer who having purchased a big ole throbbing earth mover of an automobile two years ago that gets 4 gallons to the mile who is now hating life. Yes, $2/gallon gas is here to stay, and, no, I didn't see it coming either, but I never have felt compelled to own a vehicle that can transport half of Lawrence, Kansas in any given trip either. True, there were the Plymouth Fury years, but that was an issue of necessity. The good news is that for those who can take the gasoline hit, the market is flush with late model SUVs at great prices.
...Online poker is just more fun than the law should allow. Oh yeah, the law doesn't allow online poker, but that's exactly the point. It is Suttle World's considered opinion that the poker craze has already peaked, but imagine if the growth and interest continued. Imagine if poker clubs began springing up---running straight up operations in flagrant violation of the law? Could a stupid card game be the impetuous for American's taking back control of their own affairs? Sure, its a stretch, but wild fantasy beats a shot of grape Kool-Aid most any day.
December 21, 2005
...This is quite a coincidence...just as was the case over the Thanksgiving holiday, the Department of Transportation has just announced that Interstate 85 will be closed north bound between Atlanta and Greenville, SC, as will be northbound US-25 between Greenville and Hendersonville, NC this Saturday/Christmas Eve. The southbound route will be closed in similar fashion on the 26th.
...It has been the considered opinion of Suttle World for several years that an entire Major League franchise could be built around Johnny Damon, and the Yankees have no such dramatic needs.
...Below normal temps but plenty of sunshine during the shortest day of the year. Perhaps Anne Blythe can dust off her nice, easy, wimpy, 140 yard 7 iron later depending on the compass point at which various practice facilities are aimed---anything remotely southwest and its bring your own welder's mask. Is it just the ATL's whole longitude and latitude thing or is it impossible to see anything everywhere this time of year?
...Going PATCO on New York transit workers has its romantic appeal, but would seem a bit problematic in the logistics department. That's a lot of Ralph Cramdens to replace in a 100+ year old system. Cook a goat and burn anuder fatty, mon. "Don't worry./Start hoofin'."
...Suttle World is still digesting the whole executive surveillance thing. Obviously there's a degree of covert Spy v. Spy that must and is carried out, but a sober review of such policies, including any and all checks and balances, would appear to of equal merit before we give Maxwell Smart his marching orders. Plus, never forget: as long a you're not doing anything wrong, you have nothing to fear, and there's no reason why the government can't kiss my ass.
...Props to Joe Pa and Penn State, as he becomes the first man in history to win the AP and AARP Coach of the Year awards in the same season.
December 20, 2005
...Well, its on. Let the record show that Suttle World did not sign up and pay for the privilege of a confrontation (ala the Argument Clinic), but it would appear that is what is on the bill. An arrogant academician is hardly noteworthy, perhaps even obligatory, but egregious ethical lapses by those in positions of authority are. Ergo, Dr. Aliff, your behavior will not stand without protest. And just because I'm a hell of a guy (as opposed to yourself), as part of the "discovery" process, I shall gladly furnish a laundry list of those with great expertise in a particular area of study who found themselves to be mere mortals in a fair open forum to resolve disputes with Suttle. So my Christmas wish for you good doctor (in more than five words) is that you enjoy your smug demeanor. No doubt you will find it helpful in your future job search endeavors. Or, with a greater economy of words, Aliff has moved to the top of the shit list with a bullet.
...Christmas I came off without a hitch last night at stately Roberts/Suttle Manor, as nephew Ridge and buddy Alex joined Yolanda and yours truly to swap some stuff and gorge on well prepared obligatory holiday fare. All seemed pleased with their various hauls, especially Suttle who now has the comfort of a 2006 World Almanac within easy reaching distance along the the entire Thin Man film collection and 194 Charlie Chan flicks: Charlie Chan at the Races, Charlie Chan in Hong Kong, Charlie Chan Eating a Hot Dog at Nathan's, Charlie Chan Says Pull My Finger...it just don't get no better.
...Both top seeds at stately Roberts/Suttle Manor take a header in the first round of DUFFLE playoffs and are summarily eliminated from the 2005 season. At least making the post season makes it cheaper this year, as the Lovvorn brothers battle for the big bucks in DUFFLE Bowl IV Christmas weekend.
...No doubt a bite in the bag for our New York brothers and sisters, but Bob Marley and the transit workers are making for great amusement elsewhere in the country. Dude negotiates 18 hours a day before going to his "other job at the flower shop."
...Noteworthy of the deja vu commentary here and elsewhere regarding the market and 11,000 as 2005 comes to a close seems to ignore the fact that it is deja vu in that the market hasn't budged in the past 12 months.
...Will the Redskins make the playoffs? No, but Suttle gets his wish in that Saturday's game against the Giants has more significance than New York's home field status for the post season; and stranger things have been know to happen. Ask Clint Longley.
December 19, 2005
...Well at least the Redskins won, beating hated Dallas by 28 big throbbing Cat points in the shadow of our nation's Capitol. That was the lone highlight for the first extended NFL weekend, as DUFFLE teams at stately Roberts/Suttle Manor did not fare well. Though not official, its looking like a battle of the Lovvorn brothers in DUFFLE Bowl IV. A seventh source now confirms the Falcons are a mediocre ball club in a below average conference. In fact, given the opportunities afforded by the Eagles implosion and the other glaring weaknesses in the NFC, the Falcons failure to take advantage of the situation is that much more glaring. Yes, boys and girls we could well be on the leading edge of an Atlanta pro sports nostalgia binge---reliving the 70's and 80's with franchises of equal or lesser abilities.
...Without the advantage of analysis, the President appeared to comport himself as well as could be expected in his televised address to the nation from the White House last night. Favor the war effort or not, Bush took full responsibility, continued to make his case for the war and acknowledged thoughtful folks who disagree with the administration. No word on federal spending increasing over 25% on his watch, but that's a different story.
...Props to CNBC on their new "look"---featuring graphics that incorporate a clock with hundredths of seconds. Its the little things like that that can make or break one's retirement plans.
...For our brothers and sisters of the United States Postal Service, this is the big one, Elizabeth. The good folks at the old PO will handle 900 million pieces of mail today. If 99.9% of those pieces are processed and delivered correctly, that will still leave 1 million envelopes and/or parcels wandering aimlessly out there. The same rate of accuracy means Northside Hospital would send home approximately 100 babies with the wrong parents during any given calendar year. Just a little holiday math for your computing pleasure.
December 18, 2005
...The good old fashion tease. Gotta admit the broadcast journalists at Channel 2 Action News Sunday got me this morning with promised details of a bus full of Japanese tourists rolling down a thirty foot embankment in Australia, but per usual: the payoff was unfulfilling---a few dents and dings, and, of course, authorities have detained the driver as they investigate as to whether alcohol played any role in the incident. Japanese tourists, Australian bus drivers (Crocodile Cramden)---well, we'll just let the investigation move forward. Joke: two Irish guys walk out of a bar. Hey, it could happen.
...A most civilized Saturday around stately Roberts/Manor that afforded rest and comfort, excepting Tiki (I'm the Martian twin) Barber's performance which more than mitigated Corey Dillon's stellar effort on the part of The Dictators. Still the semifinal score with the Great Falconi remains close at an eye-popping 24-21 following 3 players being involved in Saturday's three games. Yolanda and Brent remain close---with a marginal number of points on the board. And the hits just keep on coming, with DUFFLE action continuing and the Redskins/Cowboys at 4:00. Such a deal.
...That's it boys and girls. Minor updates, football, periodic naps, food consumption, base hygienic and bodily function need fulfillment and tidal respiration are about all that can be expected from one man in such circumstances. Excelsior! Carpe Little Debbie!
December 17, 2005
...It all cranks up at 1:00 this afternoon with a key match up of New England and Tampa Bay in Foxboro. That's followed by the Chiefs and Giants at 4:00 and the nightcap features Denver at Buffalo. Mix in a Colonials bitch slap of perennial whipping boys Maryland Eastern Shore, and you've got all the ingredients for a fine cold rainy sports watching Saturday.
...Well the verdict is in and its a standard, government issue, garden variety B for Suttle in the second half of A&P. Disappointing, but great to finally find a purpose for "instructor" Aliff. Evidently his lack of interaction of students can now be explained with the preoccupation of reading supposedly confidential evaluations. You sir, may be well deserving of your doctoral credentials, but remain a human budget cut.
...On this day in history: December 17, 1977---Roberts and Suttle enjoy their first date. Play that doubling gamey thing and your get back to second Truman administration.
...Another winter weather event is trying to make up its mind as moisture and cold engulf the southeast for the weekend. Doesn't appear to be a major event at this point, but the last time we thought that, stately Roberts/Suttle Manor was sans power for over 72 hours.
...Two days remain in the current semester for nephew Ridge as he wraps up his studies Tuesday at lovely Tucker High School. Per usual: survival has become the operating mode as so often seems to be the case at this point in any given academic year. Fortunately things lighten up next year, as Ridge transitions to Latin, Biology and Euclidean geometry. "Jebus save me." And yes, the opening of the well respected Suttle Academy of Manitoba has been discussed. "Factor polynomials in three easy lessons, or die." Catchy, no?
...Shout out to good buddy IV Waring of Montpelier. The eldest of the multitudinous Warings authored this year's family newsletter (that accompanied this year's lovely Christmas card) highlighting the events of 2005 for the aforementioned multitude. A bitter sweet year indeed, but given it ends with no salt water, man-eating crocodiles in the front yard, things must be running pretty well. Can't say I'm familiar with Clarkson, but I'm also the one still mulling over the Grant's tomb riddle. Regardless, mom and dad must already be welling up with tears of pride as they anticipate writing that first of many checks to come.
...Can't wait. Real nice of you guys to get together and finally humor Suttle, grab a couple rolls of quarters, and show up for the long desired poker game today. And sharing your precious Hickory Farms spring sausage to boot---well, let's just say it makes all these long early morning hours spent slaving over the keyboard worthwhile. Actually, cards or not, the menu is featuring a repeat of the very popular white chicken chili prepared for the SEC Championship game. The scents of the seasons are not that of cinnamon, cloves or frankincense (an odor I wouldn't recognize from a scratch and sniff issue of The Lighthouse); rather it is that of garlic and onion and other such savory aromas wafting about that make the hearth a home.
...Happy holidays, and may the season's greetings really piss you off.
December 16, 2005
...Yes, SOTD is genius, and you really love that tune too. No need to thank me. Just doing my job.
...Speaking of SOTD, its originator and the inspiration for its revival, one Matt Bruner of parts unknown at this writing (he and the missus are transitioning from the ATL to Texas), forwards the following artifact for our viewing pleasure---here. Yep, that's the infamous first Ramones gig witnessed by Suttle and his then to be 16 year old bride. Cruis-O-Matic was also on the bill---another first. The bad old Municipal Auditorium. Hey, its all we had til the Omni was built in '72. Up til then the Ice Capades and Globetrotters all played the Auditorium along with most big touring bands cause the Civic Center wasn't used back then either. Saw my first concert there: Peter Frampton (the week following release of the double live album) warmed up for Black Sabbath. Saw my first and only prize fights there too. Great lobby with that true urbane bus station feel.
..."The Party Starts Now." Having survived the tedium that has been the past few weeks of academia, collaborated on a fine biography of Ulysses S. Grant, erected an 8 foot Santa, shlepped nephew Ridge to complete his Christmas shopping and fiendishly finished my own buying, I'm through. Closed. Finis. Out to lunch. On another line. Gone Fishin'. Betty, hold my calls.
...It is indeed the "most wonderful time of the year;" or at least that will be the case tomorrow afternoon as the NFL begins its traditional late season Saturday play---games that coincide with semifinal action from the 2005 DUFFLE Cup Playoffs. Suttle World's Dictators make the post season for the first time ever in the league's fourth season, and looks to bring Elvis back to stately Roberts/Suttle Manor over the course of the next couple weeks.
December 15, 2005
...On rare occasion, the ATL actually enjoys a Hallmark moment in the winter weather department. You know, the kind where you gather the kids around the hearth, pour another glass of Lancer's Rose and pack the old Dr. Graybow with some Borgum Riff to enjoy the falling snow. More frequently, winter precipitation comes in the form of ice---a lovely sight in and of itself until such time as the glazed limbs collapse onto power lines leaving no ambient light nor winter wonderland with which to observe same. This morning the northern and eastern burbs are on the verge of the latter. Memo to Jebus: All I gotta do is motor to Larryville this later this morning to take my final. Big interstate highways and 37 sleet pellets make the current line 5:2 in Vegas.
...Many thanks to neighbor Cindy for her all too kind remarks regarding yesterday's briefing. Obviously she was not aware of the Virginia Gunn home and would certainly be shocked to learn it sits next door to a place run by Don Kennedy: The Officer Don Home for ATL radio geezers. Its recently opened with suites still available in the Gary McKee and Bobby Harper wings. That's Katie Kylie in the rocking chair on the porch regaling passersby with the same stories she shared with Atlanta radio audiences for over 6 decades: "I met these guys at the Omni, and they were so cool. Here's Foreigner on 96 rock." Ah yes, the Atlanta broadcast media market or, Incest City, as folks in the biz like to call it. It is indeed a phenomenon. In Chicago, if you get fired, you move to Detroit. In Atlanta, if you get fired, you move down the dial---as many times as it takes until you're dead or everyone wishes you were or you're Freddie Mertz.
...Down goes Santa! Down goes Santa! In addition to once again giving pause to what Dr. Freud might think of the term, the minor icing has felled the 8' sucker, and hopefully is keeping a few Classic Village parents on their toes early in the morning. "No, sweetheart, Santa isn't sick like Uncle Ned always gets at Christmas after the eggnog (a candidate for the suck hall of fame; but that's a different rant). He's just taking a nap. He's going to be real busy next week you know? So, he's just getting a little sleep." Ok, so I shouldn't have outlined the body in chalk. It can be difficult to entertain oneself at 5:00 am.
December 14, 2005
...Sometimes in fantasy I wish I were a television character in a world where all of life and its problems are solved in 22 minutes, but then I get to thinking about how cramped it would be living even in a big screen, and quickly change my mind.
...Suttle World can remind the gentle surfer just so many times. The Andy Williams Christmas show is this Sunday at the Civic Center. Buy your ducats now, so you don't get shut out! Rumor has it, Andy, sweater and all, joins the King Family and Joseph Stalin for the big finish of Silent Night. Do Buddhists circle town markets in their sport utility rickshaws (SURs) at some point during the year?
...Yes, we have no yuletide pics---a deficit which demands attention given last night's addition of the 8 foot, fully illuminated, mini Macy's parade baloonesque Santa deal that made its triumphant inaugural inflation on the grounds of stately Roberts/Suttle Manor. Suttle World is unsure what Freud would make of a slowly engorging 8 foot red Santa, but it is a spectacle to behold.
..."Significant icing event" is the term being tossed around for folks to the north and east of stately Roberts/Suttle Manor; and while no frozen precip if forecast for the immediate surrounds, the hand writing would appear to be on the wall for a messy winter.
...Alert the Milk Carton Production Board! Pam Martin is alive and well and on a television near you---if you happen to dial in WSB at 5:00 am. Is there no room at the Virginia Gunn Retirement Home? Atlanta broadcast personalities are not fixtures, witness the new toilet just purchased for stately Roberts/Suttle Manor. Instead, they're geological features of the ATL landscape---they've always been there and they're not going anywhere soon. Hell, Stuart Culpepper has recorded 60 years of radio copy to run after he assumes room temperature. Ken Cook on line one---gotta go.
December 13, 2005
...Iraqis stream to the polls Thursday, but some voting was done yesterday---an absentee deal for police and military folks who are going to be busy on Election Day. Regardless, that made exactly 1000 days between this invasion and the start parliamentary elections. A Martian reading that single USA Todayesque graph might well think things are going pretty well. Perhaps they are.
...With the final gun of last night's Falcons win over the lowly Saints, so ended the 2005 DUFFLE Regular Season, and Suttle makes the post season for the first time in this, the league's, fourth year of operation. In finishing second, The Dictators draw 3rd seed The Great Facloni while Yolanda's perennial first place Mother Tuckers once again get the top seed and will face #4 Mean Machine in this weekends DUFFLE Cup semifinal playoff action. Run Shawn run! And brother Eli can ease up on the pick frenzy anytime now. No further word at this writing about Vick's bruised ribs, excepting Mora's statement that he should be able to go against the Bears this weekend.
...Think holding up my end of the bargain for Ridge and I to attend some Tucker High School basketball games this season may be easier than thought. The Tigers are 4-0 so far this campaign with a cumulative score of 244-143. And while it is non-ergional play, they're not playing Maryland Eastern Shore here. That doesn't include Saturday's game against Lakeside. Next up: traveling to North Springs tonight.
...Suttle World sheds no tears at the execution to Tookie Williams. Suttle World does continue to shake its head ruefully at the entire notion of capital punishment. Suttle World also extends its condolences for the disappointment suffered by the nut case right crowd that actually wanted riots to have more finger wagging fodder.
..."Every sperm is sacred." The average male produces 500 million of the swimmers each day. There are approximately 3 billion fertile men on the planet. Suttle World's math puts the grand total at 1,500,000,000,000,000,000 human sperm produced every 24 hours. God must be very busy.
...Promised pics of the Christmas light extravaganza at stately Roberts/Suttle Manor are forthcoming---both on the grounds and in the north and west wings.
December 12, 2005
...Could we just serve judicial notice that Gregor Mendel was a very smart guy and got it right, so I don't have to do the math to explain why you have blue eyes and hair on your palms? The 23 chromosomes line up and you is what you is. Any more knowledge would appear to be superfluous. Those with more or less than 23 can't read and understand this anyway, so what's the point?
...After careful consideration the decision has been made to sell stately Roberts/Suttle Manor. Well, not exactly sell---we're working on one of those tax free exchanges, and just move into a Lowe's. It'll save a lot of money on gas, not to mention the convenience. Folks in Haiti rummage through land fills for food, and I choose from among three dozen porcelain fixtures into which to deposit my feces. Sayeth Mr. Harvey: "it is not one world."
...Can we get Larry Munson a gig calling the action in Chicago at the commodities markets? "Our gas is up. Our oil is hurting, and they've got that freshman trader in Kuwait. Oh my God, we're gonna die! Look at the pork bellies falling from the sky!" Wouldn't make any more sense than his calls of ball games, but would be equally as entertaining.
...No doubt folks had the same dubious notions regarding cable TV 30 years ago, but Suttle World is less enthusiastic about satellite radio than is the market. Good radio, like politics, is all local, and sooner or later, the behemoths in the industry are going to rediscover the wheel and be governed accordingly. How often do you use those 45 music stations on your cable?
December 11, 2005
...Last Sunday of DUFFLE regular season with one of the four remaining post season spots still up for grabs. Follow all the scores and you're 2005 DUFFLE Bowl playoff brackets here.
...George Washington mashes Morgan State as Duke routes Texas and Indiana puts the wood to Tubby and Kentucky. Most excellent college hoops day. Sure would be a nice warm up for next week's quarterfinal Division I NCAA football playoff.
...Political leanings aside and all other things being equal, is there is single humanoid who would choose Howard Dean to be their doctor? Still, it would be a show of party unity if the good doctor would perform Hillary's next prostate exam.
...Being funny is hard. Being funny as a black guy in 1965 is much harder. Richard Pryor was one funny mother fucker. Yes, he put his pants on one leg at a time and could catch on fire just like the rest of us, but he never shied from his shortcomings. Richard Pryor died yesterday of a heart attack following a lengthy battle with multiple sclerosis. He was 65. He was funny.
...Suttle World has long sworn off any negative reference to the Braves organization, and personnel moves by John Shuerholz especially. Still, the dirty little secret of the Braves success over the past 13 years has been a ball club that is consistently strong up the middle. Half of that equation has departed in the form of Furcal and Estrada. Both moves are understandable, but Andruw can't catch everything---not to mention those 8-6-3 double plays can be tough.
...Where to go. There's an outside shot at a short vacation after the first of the year, and no place particularly inspiring to which to travel. No, the Caribbean/Florida and similar sorts are out. If I want to get warm and wet, I can do so in the shower much more cheaply and conveniently. New York's always fun---well as much fun as January can muster. Vegas? Long way to shlep to play black jack that can be done from this PC. Phoenix City, AL is looking better all the time. How about a week at South of the Border?
...And God said, "Let there be online shopping." And it was good. It was better than good---a few points, clicks with free shipping from several major retail sites yesterday. Yes, apparel, much like produce, is best examined by the buyer prior to purchase, but I never bought any stinking apparel. Suttle World holiday shopping is fully functional from the internet perspective, and UPS dude has to circle stately Roberts/Suttle Manor for a parking space to deliver the stuff here as opposed to...
...It is hoped that nephew Ridge's weekend with buddy Nathan in the northern burbs is every bit as rewarding for him as has been the case with the other residents of stately Roberts/Suttle Manor.
...Hawks win! Hawks win!---beating the Spurs of all folks last night at Philips. The quest for 10 victories continues its triumphant march. The ATL has had a good run in various arenas over the past decade, so there's no whining here. Still, as much as Tech and Georgia appear to be on the right path with their major programs, the Atlanta pro scene is a wasteland. A competitive ball club at what I deem to be a reasonable price is all I ask, but one, if not both, criteria remain elusive. Meanwhile, the Gwinnett Gladiators are one point out of first place in the Southern Division of the ECHL's American Conference with a 11-5-3 mark.
December 10, 2005
...As President and co-Founder of the Hillbilly Dictators Jihad, it is my high honor and distinct privilege to announce the induction of yet another cyber member to the clan. Congratulations to Joel DeCaro of Santa Barbara, CA---a great guy, as is the case with all Dictators folks. The next order of business is to find something to do. Yolanda and I watched the entirety of the Spaceland gig in L.A. in '03 last night for the first time. We long for more. Intellectual/creative efforts are underway to affect same, but how bout saving us a few ergs here and just book a show guys? And to show leadership by example, I shall make every effort to post my profile as requested from each member in the email announcement of Joel's membership sent this morning.
...Rumor has it that many folks actually fight traffic and crowds to do their holiday shopping---an amazing phenomenon given the ease of the point and click method of hunting and gathering.
...The holiday seasons has distracted Suttle World from giving any attention to two of the most tedious events to soon be played out on the world stage: the Winter Olympics and World Cup. Its an insomniac's dream come true. And just who is the favorite in the bi-athalon this year? Is Cameroon a force with which to be dealt? The answers to these and even more tedious questions as the hideous spectacles become more proximate.
...Belated props to the Dawg nation on their hoops win earlier this week over Tech in Athens (yall know yall play basketball, right?). Regardless, the fate of each of the football and basketball programs of both schools appear to be on the best mutual footing as can ever be recalled.
December 9, 2005
..."Luther, how many times do I have to tell you to slow down at that intersection! And watch out for that 737 on the left!"
...Why is Mariah Carey relevant? Yeah, she was a hottie BITD, now having swapped all that for the Brett Butler look, but the pages of "men's magazines" (and local shopping malls for that matter) are filled with attractive young ladies. She sings reasonably well, but your local church or fine arts department can fetch talent of an equal if not greater value. Must be that stellar song writing career, or her musicianship. Well, OK, maybe there's another reason, but Suttle World has just yet to discover it---an understandable circumstance, given the search for the relevance of Celine Dion has yet to be found. It is a testosterone challenged world in which we dwell.
...Pops Mensah-Bonsu puts in 15 while grabbing 8 boards in limited action and the mighty fighting George Washington Colonials push their record to a perfect 6-0 with a 70-45 blowout of Florida International last night at the Smith Center in DC. Suttle World signed up for the pay for view/listen service, but then was unable to sign on. Alas, wasn't terribly concerned about last night's match up, and should be techno savvy enough to get this sucker up and running by Saturday when GW takes on dreaded Morgan State.
...The trees are still dead---their now shredded fibrous matter scattered about a distant location. Suffer you ugly suckers! See you in hell sweat gum.
...Its Friday, so it must be time for that new game show sweeping the nation: In-law Roulette. Yes, this week the big wheel spins as our contestants vie to see who can be the first to pull the last hair from their head. Big prizes, including a bushel basket full of anxiety and angst await our players on this week's episode. Stay tuned.
...For those keeping score at home: excellent news from dear old dad in Chapel Hill this week. It would appear that his stem cell transplant from earlier this year is finally beginning to "take"---holding out great hope for a full and complete recovery. Props to the pencil necked geeks at Duke for their superior care and efforts through these most trying of times.
December 8, 2005
...As feared, when nephew Ridge was asked if at anytime during the school day Wednesday did anyone mention Pearl Harbor, his answer was: "Pearl Harbor?" A brief explanation ensued, but the implications are staggering on a staggering number of levels. And yes, Suttle World fully appreciates that the academic expectations of its own secondary and higher education were much lower than those of just a generation prior.
...Sun has yet to rise, so we'll do the best with what we've got (pics taken yesterday with awful lighting and a camera that Suttle World has yet to master, if, indeed that is an achievable status). THE TREES ARE GONE! Yes, props to Mr. McCurry and Mountain Tree Service who once again made stellar and quick work of 3 huge pines and and equally distasteful sweet gum in the backyard/doggieland. Again, a few pics here with more to come.
...Really very little on which to rant in a more relaxed albeit active mode in and around stately Roberts/Suttle Manor. Only four days until DUFFLE destiny is cast for 2006.
...Suttle World is currently proudly flying the Austrian flag with great success in its current Diplomacy effort. Its been a seamless game, starting October 20, and now in 1908. Austria stands tallest among the survivors, and while outright victory is doubtful, its been a stellar effort. This is among the coolest free activities the net has to offer.
...The 6:30 bewitching mark strikes. Actual extensions and revisions possible as the morning passes. Gird your loins as best possible in the interim,
December 7, 2005
...On this day 64 years ago, a cowardly unprovoked attack by Japan on the United Sates' naval base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii resulted in the murder in over 2400 Americans. Their sacrifice and that of countless others to follow is not and will never be forgotten.
...Yesterday's haste did not allow time to ponder what stellar tee times the Eagles must have made last week. One also ponders if anyone in Philadelphia has regained their voice or use of their arms after the incumbent booing and battery chucking involved in a 42-0 MNF loss. Mailed in without sufficient postage.
...Can't look by a formidable Florida International foe for 19th ranked GW tomorrow night.
...The clock strikes: time to get my ass moving and begin the onus that is opening stately Roberts/Suttle Manor for yet another day's business. Permission to revise and extend....
December 6, 2005
...Mighty fighting Colonials indeed. Though I must confess to nodding off during the second half following a rather hectic day, George Washington took the lead mid way through an ugly first half and held on to beat #23 Maryland 78-70 in the finals of the BB&T Classic at the MCI Center in DC. Three other patsies on the schedule leading up to another televised game New Year's Eve (afternoon) in Raleigh against NC State. Suttle Adventure Travel is still looking into the possibility of attending and mixing that in with some familial business with which must be dealt. I'm buying (ticket and lodging) for anyone who wishes to make the trip. Suttle needs to be sans automobile in North Carolina---long story.
...One need not be Dick Morris to make his obvious observation regarding Secretary Rice and that she may well be the only American who can beat Hillary in '08. Again, his book repeats the theme in 4700 different flavors over the span of 150 pages. But mesh that if you will with a heard on the street comment yesterday. Actually, it was while standing in the check out line at the local grocer, that I engaged in small talk with a middle aged black man who made most complimentary remarks about Secretary Rice whose face graced a boldly displayed tabloid. Now this fellow may well have a big "W" bumper sticker on his ride, but in a Congressional district that re-elected Cynthia McKinney, one doubts it. It was a stark object lesson in Morris' premise. Condi could win, and we could do a lot worse----Hillary, for example.
...Almost forgot to send out props to the Hawks. You just don't get many NBA games featuring teams with a combined 3-27 records, but such was the case Friday as the Hawks lost to Toronto at home. One suspects the Hawks will not make the conference finals this season, keeping their 37 year record in tact. Suttle World wants no excuses. Take em and trade em in for a $50 ticket to sit among 4200 of your closest friends and enjoy the entertainment of "big league" basketball. Meanwhile, the Thrashers are improving, going 3-5-2 in their last 10 games. Another $50 ticket on which I believe I shall pass. Quick, name one Montreal Canadian. See?
...Three of the four DUFFLE playoff positions are set, including both residents of stately Roberts/Suttle Manor. The DUFFLE Cup (we still need a better name) has been appropriately decorated for the season and viewable here courtesy of reigning champion Deidre and s/o Cindy.
December 5, 2005
...Word has it the remainder of what was once a throng of folks waiting at the Greyhound Station for the Falcons Playoff Shuttle to arrive are getting a little testy. Not that one should be surprised that a team that could manage to lose to Green Bay at home should have trouble with an improving Carolina club, but the pre-season NFC co-favorites look like an also ran in a mediocre conference. Just have to keep reminding myself that this is just an off year for the new Falcons, as opposed to a repeat of the Clampetts' folly. A continuing mystery for Suttle World (who "never played the game, did you") is that in both good years and bad how inside linebacker Keith Brooking could go an entire vaunted career without ever making a play between the hash marks. Dude can knock a guy out of bounds like no other, but its those gosh darn passes over the middle that are tough to understand.
...Quiet weekend with the welcome return of nephew Ridge yesterday evening. A couple of hectic days, and then stately Roberts/Suttle Manor closes partially to the public to affect some much needed upgrade.
...First real test of the season tonight for the 19th ranked mighty fighting Colonials of George Washington University as they play #23 Maryland at the MCI Center in DC. The game will be available to many cable customers, including those in the ATL, on Fox Sports Network. Tip off at 9:00.
December 4, 2005
...And they said it would never last...Well two orbits of the sun later and they're still attached, legally and otherwise as the principals of stately Roberts/Suttle Manor celebrate the second anniversary of their second marriage to one another. It is also a stark reminder, that the aforementioned nuptials, performed on the run in Hanover, VA, were a part of the then to become Honeymoon Haj and marked the last occasion The Dictators played a full set together. That's two years guys!!!
..."Thank you sir, and would you like to be a face donor?"
...Props to cuzins Bill and Moke who made the pilgrimage to stately Roberts/Suttle Manor yesterday evening for a visit and what turned out to be a pretty damn good pot of white/green chicken chili. Unfortunately the accoutrements of football did not prove to be an equal of the good fellowship. As previously stated, there were several of yesterday's conference title games for which Suttle World had great anticipation, and each one chewed. The good news: BCS or not, we're going to get the game everyone wanted: USC v. Texas in the Rose Bowl, January 6.
...Props to the Tar Heels, for their impressive road win against a pretty good (and 10th ranked) Kentucky ball club yesterday in Lexington. Huge W for the young teams from Chapel Hill.
...Without a doubt, the best part about the holiday season (for which stately Roberts/Suttle Manor is increasingly prepared in the decor department) is reviewing all the various calendars to determine the dates of next year's big events. Where will the US Open(s) be played? The Professional Putters Association, the pro bowlers tour, the pro duckpin bowlers tour all must crown an Open champion in 2006. Suttle Adventure Travel stands at the ready to meet all your Championship needs in the coming year. And where will minor league baseball take us in 2006?---perhaps no farther than Augusta. They've got Putt Putt there, and hosted the '03 Championship.
...Were Tom Daschle still in the Senate, the good people of South Dakota would still be able to demolish silos with the respect and dignity to which they have become accustomed.
December 3, 2005
...Well, that was quite a week, and there's still Super Saturday with which to deal. Yes, Suttle World is actually all a tingle over at least three of today's offerings. Imagine how exciting each of the three weeks an eight team playoff would generate. MSNBC story linked on home page today indicates Congress looking into the whole BCS debacle. Hey, somebody's got to do it, and as long a they're determined to act in an extra-Constitutional manner, it may as well involve college football instead of something that actually matters. In fact, it is Suttle World's considered opinion that the Republic would be well served should Congress immediately suspend the majority of its activities at present and tend to issues such as bowl games, the baseball steroid scandal, boxing, the infield fly rule, etc...
...Its going to be real tough to let this face transplant thing go. On one hand you have a real flesh and blood patient, horribly disfigured by a dog attack; and on the other hand you have any of a number of Monty Python possibilities. Rejection is an issue, but one wonders as to whether a face rejects itself by detaching and running out of the room or some such. Were this procedure available in the 90's, Willie McGee could potentially be in the Hall of Fame. Scotty Pippin may have actually gotten some. Yes, its a wonderful medical breakthrough, and yes, a lot of people lose portions of their faces and/or scalps in industrial and farming accidents each year, but "how can you look yourself in the face?" This is simply too rich. OK---I'll stop. ".../Head, shoulders, knees and toes/Eyes and ears and mouth and nose/Head shoulders knees and toes/Knees and toes..." No really, I'll stop!
...So Pops Mensah-Bonsu makes his triumphant return and misses a dunk for his first shot... The 19th ranked mighty fighting Colonials move to a perfect 4-0 with a 75-62 win over Boston U. last night at the Smith Center in DC. Back off my man Pops. Hey, he had more sense than Yanki Dari (who does, in fact, have an IQ above that of a potted plant), and pulled out of the draft last summer, albeit not according to Hoyle, ergo, the three game suspension. Still giving consideration to the game against NC State in Raleigh on New Year's Eve. More to come.
...An academic paradox: I rarely, if ever, gave out 30 (perfect---30/30) speaker points to anyone in many rounds of interscholastic debate judged, but did toss out a decent number or 28s and 29s. Ergo, the clueless student shall not protest too much if perfect grades are not returned for subjective assignments, despite there being no discernable objection to any of the work performed.
...Who among the gentle surfers will join hands and show effort and resolve to gain Ernie Johnson the recognition he so rightly deserves as soon as possible so that he and his family may still enjoy same? There are two objectives in the view of Suttle World: first, the family is real keen on Mr. Johnson's induction into the broadcasters portion of Cooperstown. Ernie Johnson.org is the family site, where you can learn more about contacting committee members. The other item, is to get the Braves organization to retire his #24, Ernie's number. He is as deserving of being out there with Aaron, Spahn, Matthews, Murphy and Niekro just as much as are they. Common boys and girls: let us gather our torches and pitch forks and right this injustice here in our own backyards.
December 2, 2005
...Suttle World does not wish to be headquartered in any region in which the term "lake effect snow" is used in a local weather forecast.
...Shout out to our warm, close, personal friends, Cruis-O-Matic, on the launch of their new web site. Next scheduled gig is in February in Charlotte, but one suspects the boys may well come out and play prior to '06.
...Let's get this straight: the same folks who run the Post Office, IRS and DMV, government, are the same folks who "run" capital punishment. Enough said?
...No, you are not mistaken, the 19th ranked mighty fighting Colonials (3-0, 0-0) do play a rare Friday night game tonight against Boston U. at the Smith Center in DC. This may well be the evening to crank up the pay for view PC deal. And a glorious night it will be with the triumphant return of Pops Mensah-Bonsu. George Washington: First in war. First in peace. First in really neat names. And whatever happened to Dirk Searls?
December 1, 2005
...Yes, the tireless efforts of Suttle World continue with the holiday theme in place on the home page to commemorate the start of December.
...Doctors in France and here at the Cleveland Clinic are on the leading edge of the face transplant. No, it makes no sense to Suttle World, but it's regrettable that the breakthrough did not come in time for Ethyl Merman.
...Stand down Christian soldiers! One more complaint about naming Christmas trees or holiday greetings and I'm taking a hostage at a manger scene on the town square. Is it really necessary to explain that the timing of the holiday and its accouterments are thieved from the pagan celebrations of the winter solstice? The trees, pretty lights, maxed out credit cards, et al have nothing more to do with the birth of Jesus than does my sock drawer. Just calm down and go about your celebration in the matter you wish; and if a retailer using the term "happy holidays" offends you, spend your bucks elsewhere. Then shut up!
...Suttle World supported the war upon its onset and continues to support the President with regard to staying the course in Iraq. Still, Suttle World remains perplexed about the whole objective thing. If the premise is to whack down on terrorist's pee-pees then why not roll into Syria---the Club Med of the nut case Islamic crowd.
...Lebron James is all that, with chips. Too bad the league in which he plays is gaining quickly on soccer in the yawn department. And has Suttle World mentioned that the Hawks cannot suck enough?
...If Tech gets the Boise Bowl bid, will cuzin Bill be able to watch his beloved Yellow Jackets on the dreaded blue field?
...A mere two days left in a rather hectic week around stately Roberts/Suttle Manor. Just continue to play nicely among yourselves.
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