Circling Buzzards

Jose Alencar - March 29, 2011

2011-12-23T21:53:00.001-05:00

Former Brazilian Vice President Jose Alencar died on March 29th after a long battle with abdominal cancer. He was 79. The textile magnate shared eight years of government with Brazil's first working-class president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

NY Times Obit

Christopher Hitchens - Dec 15, 2011

2011-12-23T21:36:00.002-05:00

A great thinker has passed. Some of his better thoughts:

ON RELIGION: “ To ‘choose’ dogma and faith over doubt and experience is to throw out the ripening vintage and to reach greedily for the Kool-Aid.” —God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything, 2007

ON HYPOCRITES: “Nothing optional—from homosexuality to adultery—is ever made punishable unless those who do the prohibiting (and exact the fierce punishment) have a repressed desire to participate.” —God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything, 2007

ON THE AMERICAN LEFT: “One of the many problems with the American left, and indeed of the American left, has been its image and self-image as something rather too solemn, mirthless, herbivorous, dull, monochrome, righteous, and boring.” —Frontpagemag.com, 2004

NY TIme Obit

Eleanor Mondale - Sept 17, 2011

2011-12-23T21:16:00.003-05:00

Eleanor began her broadcasting career in the late 1980s as a radio D.J. in Chicago. In 1989, she became an entertainment reporter at WCCO-TV in Minneapolis. She later worked as a D.J. at WLOL-FM, a Minneapolis radio station, and as an on-air personality at the E! Online cable channel, ESPN and “This Morning” on CBS.

She was only 51, but she had a full life. Over the years, she was romantically linked to various celebrities, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Warren Zevon and Don Henley, as well as the financier Ronald O. Perelman. She was married three times, first to Keith Van Horne, a former tackle for the Chicago Bears, in 1988; then to Greg Malban, a D.J. known as Greg Thunder, in 1991. In 2005 she married Chan Poling, a musician and composer, and took his last name. Nice Job!

Ny Time Obit

iDead

2011-10-06T11:58:00.000-04:00

Apple founder and all-around cool businessman Steven Jobs died on Wednesday. He was 56 years old. Those 44 points are the first for me this year. And while he was no 'Amy Winehouse' we are getting near the end of 2011. Either way, at least I don't get blanked.

Another Update!!

2011-07-23T15:31:00.000-04:00

I missed Jeff Conaway which puts Greg in the lead so far. BTW - It was easy to miss him as he was easily the least famous actor on Taxi.

Update!!!

2011-07-23T14:16:00.000-04:00

We have not done a very good job updating this year's death pool. But as of July 23 it looks like we have had 6 deaths - Gerry Rafferty, Elizabeth Taylor, Harmon Killebrew, Betty Ford, Jack Kevorkian and now Amy Winehouse. The famous young, troubled singer gives Jacob 73 points and vaults him into the lead!!!

The first lingerer of the year - Elizabeth Taylor

2011-03-23T13:02:00.002-04:00

Finally (respectfully). I believe she has been in the buzzards pool since the inception. I can't relly say much about her as I have seen none of her movies and never married her (she had a few from my understanding).

21 points for me which moves me in to 2nd place.

P.S. - Thanks to the Buzzards #1 fan for alerting me of this.

RIP - Captain

2010-12-17T21:34:00.002-05:00

Don Van Vliet, aka Captain Beefheart, died from complication from MS. He was 69 and worth 31 points. No where near enough to win the pool but hopefully late enough for me to get the last death money.

Death on the Pile

2010-10-23T15:07:00.003-04:00

Simon MacCorkindale,the dashing British actor who turned heads in the star-studded 1978 film Death on the Nile and went on to play villains and charming Englishmen on numerous television shows in Britain and the United States, died on Thursday in London. He was 58.

His big break came at age 25 when he was cast in Death on the Nile, a big-budget screen adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel, in which he played the trophy husband of the heiress, played by Lois Chiles, who is murdered aboard a Nile River cruiser. His co-stars included Peter Ustinov, Maggie Smith and Bette Davis.

He later had a recurring role as the conniving lawyer to Jane Wyman’s equally conniving Angela Channing in the prime-time CBS soap opera Falcon Crest. He also appeared on Dynasty, Hart to Hart and The Dukes of Hazzard, on which he played the snobby British cousin to the country bumpkin Duke brothers.

Here is the NY Times obit for Simon Charles Pendered MacCorkindale.

Some Don't Like it Hot

2010-09-30T07:12:00.002-04:00

On Wednesday evening actor Tony Curtis died at his home in Las Vegas. He was 85 years old. Curtis was known for such movies as "The Defiant Ones", "Sweet Smell of Success" and "Some Like it Hot." His death gives Jim three on the year and adds 15 points to his second place total.

It also needs to be pointed out that a death was missed this summer. Senator Robert Byrd passed on June 28 at the age of 92. His death gives Jacob another eight points and gives him three on the year as well.

8 Seconds - 50 Points

2010-09-02T08:55:00.002-04:00

Laurent Fignon, the Frenchman who won the Tour de France in 1983 and 1984 and lost to American Greg LeMond in 1989 in the race's closest finish, died Tuesday of cancer. He was 50.

In 1989, Fignon lost to LeMond by eight seconds. The two dogged each other for weeks, the leader's yellow jersey passing back and forth. Finally, with only the last-day time trial left, Fignon had a 50-second lead that appeared decisive.

But LeMond, riding with an aerodynamic helmet and new triathlon handlebars that Fignon maintained were illegal, set a blistering pace. It was the fastest full-length time-trial stage ever ridden at the time.

To read more about Fignon's career see:
Fignon the Champion

Fignon in Photos

Lead Change

2010-07-13T11:13:00.001-04:00

Long-time Yankees owner George Steinbrenner died of a massive heart attack on Monday night. He was 80 years old. The 20 points gives Jim the lead in this year's pool. There is also a three-way tie for most deaths at two a piece with the passing of John Wooden that was missed here recently.

Not So Golden

2010-06-03T14:43:00.002-04:00

Actress Rue McClanahan has died at the age of 76. McClanahan was best known for her role as Blanche on the 80's sitcom "The Golden Girls". She is the third 'Golden Girl' to pass in recent years leaving only Betty White.

This is the first death for Jacob in 2010 and the 24 points puts him in a close third place.

A Black Day

2010-05-16T19:35:00.002-04:00

Legendary heavy metal rocker Ronnie James Dio has died. Dio took over for Ozzy Osbourne as lead singer for Black Sabbath in 1980. He also enjoyed a successful solo career. Last summer he was diagnosed with stomach cancer. Dio was 67 years old.

This is just the third death of the year in the Circling Buzzards. But the 33 points from Dio's death makes things all tied up as we near the halfway mark.

Links & Stats

2010-01-30T11:36:00.002-05:00

I have linked all of our selections to their Wikipedia page. I have also calculated the average age of each Buzzard's draftees. Much like last year, Jim went for the aged and decrepit, whereas I went with a younger, cancer-ridden strategy. Beware the lingerer!

Famous Enough?

2010-01-29T09:05:00.004-05:00

When people learn that I am in a death pool, they are oddly fascinated by this "sick" behavior. While most people seem to think that my participation demonstrates an obvious moral flaw in my character, they usually alert me to famous deaths. I wish that they would tell me about people who are really really sick and about to die - but no, just deaths.

The most common question that I get is, "How do you decide if a person is famous enough?" I usually have two answers: 1) My fellow buzzards and I vote during the Reaper's selection (i.e., the December draft); and 2) My personal rule is - if a person gets an obituary in the NY Times, then they are famous enough for me.

Hence, I present the following NY Times obituaries:

Zelda Rubinstein, Clairvoyant in 'Poltergeist,' Dies at 76
Zelda Rubinstein, a 4-foot-3-inch character actress best known for playing the indomitable ghost-purging psychic in “Poltergeist,” died on Wednesday in Los Angeles...

J. D. Salinger, Literary Recluse, Dies at 91
J. D. Salinger, who was thought at one time to be the most important American writer to emerge since World War II but who then turned his back on success and adulation, becoming the Garbo of letters, famous for not wanting to be famous, died on Wednesday...

Typical Izzy

2010-01-28T15:35:00.002-05:00

In typical fashion, Izzy has quickly jumped into the lead with back-to-back deaths. The first was his top pick Zelda Rubinstein. She was best known as the psychic in the movie Poltergeist. Rubinstein was 76 years when she died on Wednesday.

On Thursday author J.D. Salinger died. He was best known for for the novel Catcher in the Rye. Salinger was 91.

The two deaths give Izzy a combined 33 points for the early lead this year. He also gets the side bet for the first death.

The Lists Are Now Available

2010-01-14T10:01:00.002-05:00

It is a little late but I finally got everything entered. Please scroll down to see the results of the 2010 Death Draft! You may notice that only four players entered this year - Dave was not able to make the draft and dropped out (for now.) The draft took place on January 1 and as of yet, no one has died. But Teddy Pendergrass would have been a nice choice!

2010

2010-01-05T22:38:00.001-05:00

I've run into a snag putting up the draft results for the 2010 season. Please stand by.

Helter Skelter - Greg is on a Streak

2009-09-25T11:45:00.002-04:00

Famed Manson family member Susan Atkins died after a VERY VERY LONG bout with brain cancer. While we know what she was famous for she did help at-risk youth, victims of violent crimes and homeless children during her incarcerated years. (Your not supposed to talk ill of the dead. Right?

Her passing gives Greg 39 points and moves him in to 3rd place. Now he only needs Jeff Conaway, Muhammed Ali, and Elanor Mondale to catch Izzy for first.

Greg is finally on the board

2009-09-16T21:57:00.002-04:00

Mary Travers of Peter, Paul, and Mary goes to the land of Honah Lee after a lengthy battle with cancer.

May she enjoy frolicking in the autumn mist.

Patrick Swayze - truly a ghost

2009-09-14T21:26:00.002-04:00

Actor Patrick Swayze died on Monday after a long battle with Pancreatic cancer. Swayze made it big in Hollywood with his performance in Dirty Dancing. He then went over-the-top with the smash hit Ghost. And then, well, there was Road House.

Swayze was just 57 years old.

His death gives Jacob 43 points and jumps him up to second place. Honestly, I'm just happy Izzy didn't get the points.

Getting Ridiculous

2009-08-26T09:38:00.001-04:00

As you probably know by now, Senator Edward Kennedy died at the age of 77. And as you probably have guessed, Izzy gets 23 more points. It's turning into a rout!

Izzy Rules

2009-08-18T13:08:00.003-04:00

Conservative political journalist Robert Novak died on Tuesday. He had been battling brain cancer. He was 78 years old.

That gives Izzy another 22 points - like he needs it! But it also puts him in the lead for the 'most deaths' side-bet.

One More for Jim

2009-08-11T07:47:00.002-04:00

Another member of the famed Kennedy family has passed away. Eunice Kennedy Shriver died at the age of 88. She was the sister of President John Kennedy. She was known for her charitable work including the creation of the Special Olympics.

Her death is the third for me this year and puts me back into second place. However, the way things have been going lately, don't be surprised if there's another post by the end of the day!

Another Two-Death Day

2009-07-31T21:52:00.003-04:00

For the second time this year we have two deaths in the Circling Buzzards on the same day. Earlier in the day famed footballer Bobby Robson died. Now comes news of the death of former Phillipine President Corazon Aquino. She was the first female president of the island nation and although her reign was not very successful, it ended the tyranny of Ferdinand Marcos. Aquino had been battling cancer for some time. She was 76 years old.

Her death is the second for Jacob this year and now puts him in second place with 32 points.

Sorry Dave.

Dave Scores a Goal

2009-07-31T15:26:00.003-04:00

Well known footballer and coach Bobby Robson died today. He had a 20-year playing career as well as success as a manager. A year he ago he was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Sir Robson was 76 years old.

The death is the first for Dave in 2009 and actually vaults him into second place overall.

A request has been made for another Farrah photo but I think I'll put one up of our Grim Reaper friend Rene!!!

(okay, not really Rene)

Jacob on the Board

2009-07-17T20:52:00.003-04:00

Legendary news anchor Walter Cronkite has died at the age of 92. Cronkite was a pioneer in broadcast news covering such events as the assassinations of JFK and MLK as well as the Vietnam War, the Iran Hostage Crisis and numerous Presidential Elections.

His death gives Jacob a whopping 8 points for his first death of the year. And if he can find a way to pull an 'Izzy' he may have a chance at claiming some cash by the years end.

Oh, and what the hell, here's one more picture of Farrah (would you rather see Walter?)

.

The Trifecta

2009-06-25T20:17:00.003-04:00

It's been a good time for Izzy as he grabs his third death of the week with the passing of Michael Jackson. The pop icon's death gives Izzy a whopping 50 points to go with the 38 from Farrah and 14 from Ed. That may be all he needs to ride out the year as it easily tops last year's best total of 85.

I'll show my respects for Ed McMahon and truly miss the gorgeous Farrah Fawcett but the world may actually be a better place without the child molesting, one glove freak show named Michael Jackson. And he certainly isn't getting his picture on this blog. So here's another one of Farrah:

_

Izzy Jumps Ahead

2009-06-25T15:08:00.002-04:00

After a lengthy battle with cancer Farrah Fawcett died on Thursday. She was 62 years old. That gives Izzy another 38 points to go with the 14 he got just a couple of days ago thank to Ed McMahon. And it also gives him the lead!

H-e-e-e-e-e-e-r-e's Izzy

2009-06-23T12:45:00.002-04:00

Former Johnny Carson sidekick Ed McMahon died on Tuesday. McMahon has suffered numerous ailments in recent years including bone cancer. He was also a recovering alcoholic, something Johnny often joked about on the air. He was 86 years old.

McMahon's death gives Izzy 14 points, his first points of the year. It is only the third death in the Circling Buzzards as we near the halfway point. Apparently it's a bad year to die.

The Rest of the Story

2009-03-01T09:41:00.002-05:00

On Saturday evening radio announcer and pioneer Paul Harvey died at the age of 90. Harvey had been heard nationally since 1951 with commentaries and interviews. In 1976 he created a feature known as "The Rest of the Story" featuring anecdotes of the famous and infamous.

This is just the second death for the Circling Buzzards in 2009 and both are for the same owner. While Harvey was worth just 10 points it is nice to be up by two on everyone.

Jim Strikes First

2009-01-15T11:05:00.002-05:00

Actor Ricardo Montalban died Thursday at the age of 88. Montalban was an actor on the big screen through the 50's and 60's and later played Mr. Rourke on the hit show Fantasy Island.

This is the first death in the Circling Buzzards for 2009. It not only starts me out with 12 points for the year, I win the prize money for the first death. It is also the first time I have won any money in this damned death pool - and I'll take it!

A New Year

2009-01-02T10:25:00.000-05:00

The 2008 season is over and Dave walked away the Champion. He not only had the most points but the added bonus of the final death. The 2009 draft took place on New Years Day. Be sure to check - and double-check - the picks below.

Missed One

2008-12-28T10:30:00.001-05:00

It was just realized that Bettie Paige died on December 11th. While her death is worth just 15 points, it begins to give me a respectable total for the year. And, of course, there's still a few more days for someone to kick it!

Merry Christmas Dave

2008-12-25T11:09:00.001-05:00

On Wednesday author and playwright Harold Pinter died of cancer. Pinter was a Nobel-winning author as well as outspoken critic of Tony Blair and George Bush. He was 78 years old.

Pinter's death is huge for Dave. Not only does he jump into the lead with 85 points, it is quite likely that this will be final death for 2008. Our draft this year is scheduled for Jan 1, 2009.

Studs Terkel

2008-11-01T09:50:00.002-04:00

On Friday October 31, legendary author Studs Terkel died peacefully at his home. He was 96 years old. Although most remember Terkel as a sports writer, particularly for his role in Eight Men Out, he was a serious activist and historian. He won the Pulitzer Prize in 1985 for his book The Good War which contained stories from World War II.

Terkel's death gives Jacob his third for the year and puts him in second place with 66 points. Although there are two months remaining there is a decent chance that this could be the last of the year giving Jacob the super-scoop on first and last deaths.

Sherrill "Psycho" Headrick Dead

2008-10-11T12:39:00.001-04:00

Linebacker Sherrill Headrick was an AFL original. Teammates called him “Psycho” because of his fearless style of play and reckless style off the field. And his ability to play through pain was legendary. But Headrick, one of the most colorful characters during the formative years of the Chiefs franchise, died Wednesday, September 10th after a long battle with cancer. He was 71.

Headrick, inducted into the Chiefs Hall of Fame in 1993, was a five-time AFL All-Star and the franchise’s starting middle linebacker in the 1962 and 1966 AFL championship games and the first Super Bowl.

http://www.kansascity.com/sports/chiefs/story/791186.html

NY Times Obit

Not So Golden

2008-07-22T16:00:00.002-04:00

Actress Estelle Getty has died at the age of 84. After struggling in Hollywood for many years, Getty finally got her break as Sopia on the Golden Girls. She had been suffering from dementia for the past few years.

Getty has been a regular in death pools for the past few years. This year our newest member Jacob snagged her in the fourth round. It is his second death of the year and gives him 62 points. That is just one behind Dave and three behind our leader Greg.

It appears that this year's pool is far from over.

Princeton High Grad Passes at 53

2008-07-13T04:22:00.006-04:00

Former Fox Newsman and White House Press Secretary Tony Snow died Saturday from colon cancer. Snow was born in Berea, Kentucky and raised in Cincinnati. He graduated from Princeton High School in 1973.

He was 53 years old, giving Dave 47 points and moving him just 2 points out of the lead.

Since Snow died at 2am and Murcer died in the afternoon...sorry Izzy.

Izzy Goes Back-to-Back

2008-07-12T22:14:00.002-04:00

On Saturday former baseball player Bobby Murcer died of a brain tumor. Murcer spent most of his playing career with the Yankees and worked in the New York booth as an announcer for a number of years. He was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2006 and briefly returned to the booth last season before falling ill once again. He was 62 years old.

Murcer's death was the second for Izzy and jumps him up to second place on the season.

Izzy's on the Board!

2008-07-04T11:23:00.002-04:00

Former Senator Jesse Helms died overnight at the age of 86. Although his death was said to be of natural causes, he had battled various illnesses over the years. Helms served in Congress for 30 years.

The death of the Senator gives Izzy his first points of the 2008 season. His 14 points keep him in last place but for now he has the last death of the year. It could hold up!

Nah!

Holy Fucking Shit! George Carlin died!

2008-06-23T07:45:00.002-04:00

On Sunday afternoon comedian/actor George Carlin died of heart failure. No one in this death pool had him but if they did he would have been worth 29 points. I just wanted to make a post with that title and give my respect to a man that I am sure would appreciate the absurdity of a death pool.

Bo knows....

2008-06-02T14:16:00.003-04:00

Legendary guitarist Bo Diddly died on monday. He had been quite ill since suffering a heart attack and stroke last year. He was 79.

After nearly two months without a death it is the second in our pool in two days. The passing gives Greg the lead with 65 points and three deaths. Bo is the ninth person chosen by Greg to die in the last year and a half. The other members have a combined total of 13 deaths in that same span.

Fashionable Pick Dies

2008-06-02T07:53:00.002-04:00

One of the most prominent fashion designers of the 20th century, Yves Saint Laurent, died in Paris on Sunday. Laurent had been battling brain cancer for nearly a year. He was 71.

Laurent is the first of my picks to pass this year. And while I may be late in joining the party it is nice to be here. The 29 points are not only my first of 2008 they jump me into third place. That's not as good as the Mt. Pilot Moonshine in fantasy baseball, but I'll take it.

Pry The Gun

2008-04-06T08:53:00.002-04:00

Moses is dead. So is Michaelangelo, El Cid, Ben-Hur and the guy from the Planet of the Apes. That's right, Charlton Heston has died at the age of 84. Heston earned numerous accolades for his (over-) acting throughout his career as he portrayed some of the most glorious figures in history. Along with acting he also served as the head of the NRA for a number of years. It was his work that has protected the rights of those individuals who wish to shoot innocent squirrels in their backyards. Our forefathers would be proud.

Heston's death is the first of the year for Dave and puts him on the board with 16 points.

Rug keeps Rolling

2008-01-27T08:19:00.001-05:00

After nearly sweeping the 2007 death pool, Greg has now already landed his second death of 2008. Former Indonesian president Suharto died on Saturday. He had been very ill for quite some time and his death is being listed as multiple organ failure. That'll do it. He was 86 years old.

That gives Greg a total of 44 on the young season. He still trails Jacob by two but with eight deaths in the last 13 months or so, I sure wouldn't want to be on Greg's list.

Good Night Bob

2008-01-20T08:24:00.000-05:00

On Saturday evening actress Suzanne Pleshette died of lung cancer. She was 70 years old.

Although Pleshette appeared in numerous movies and broadway shows, she is best known for her role as Bob's wife on The Bob Newhart Show in the 1970's. In 2001 she married another Bob Newhart regular, Tom Poston. He died in April of last year.

Pleshette moved up in the recent draft. Last year she was a third round pick for Izzy. This year she was chosen by Greg as his first pick. Her death is just the second in the Circling Buzzards this year and gives Greg 30 points.

First Death

2007-12-27T11:22:00.000-05:00

For the second year in a row we have a death in our pool without even having the lists complete. On Thursday morning, Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto was killed in a suicide attack along with at least 20 other people. While the death may be tragic and cause serious problems in an already troubled country, it was one hell of a pick. Bhutto was just 54 years old. That gives our newest member, Jacob, an early lead and also the side bet for first death.

The Bets - 2008

2007-12-23T13:52:00.000-05:00

Although some interesting new bets were proposed, we agreed to keep the same bets from last year.

Bet 1 - cost $20 each: Highest number of points accumulated by the start of the next draft.
Bet 2 - cost $5 each: First death of the year, highlighted in green.
Bet 3 - cost $5 each: Last death of the year, highlighted in yellow.
Bet 4 - cost $5 each: Highest number of deaths during the year, no payout for ties.

The Leader of the Band has... DIED

2007-12-16T21:21:00.000-05:00

The leader of the band is tired
And his eyes are growing old
But his blood runs through My instrument
And his song is in my soul --
My life has been a poor attempt
To imitate the man
I WAS just a living legacy
To the leader of the band

Dan Fogelberg, the singer and songwriter whose hits "Leader of the Band" and "Same Old Lang Syne" helped define the soft-rock era, died Sunday at his home in Maine after battling prostate cancer. He was 56.

This is worth 44 points for Greg and gives him a late lead and a possible late comeback to overcome Izzy. If this death is the last of the year in the pool, it could be a complete sweep for Greg getting the first and last deaths along total points.

Not So Evel

2007-11-30T23:29:00.000-05:00

The legendary stunt man Evel Knievel died on Friday at the age of 69. That gives Greg 31 points and solidifies his second place status. Of course in this game second place gets you nowhere. But he is now just one good death away from catching Izzy. And, Evel's death could very well be the last of the year, giving Greg the SuperScoop on the first and last death bonus.

Pavawho? is Dead

2007-09-06T07:47:00.000-04:00

The New York Times reports that Luciano Pavarotti, Italian tenor, is dead at 71

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/06/arts/music/06pavarotti.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin

Luciano Pavarotti, the Italian singer whose ringing, pristine sound set a standard for operatic tenors of the postwar era, died on Sept. 6, 2007. He was 71. The cause was pancreatic cancer. In July 2006 he underwent surgery for the cancer in New York and had made no public appearances since then.

Like Enrico Caruso and Jenny Lind before him, Mr. Pavarotti extended his presence far beyond the limits of Italian opera. He became a titan of pop culture. Millions saw him on television and found in his expansive personality, childlike charm and generous figure a link to an art form with which many had only a glancing familiarity.

Early in his career and into the 1970s he devoted himself with single-mindedness to his serious opera and recital career, quickly establishing his rich sound as the great male operatic voice of his generation -- the "King of the High Cs," as his popular nickname had it.

A Post-Mortem Boo-Boo

2007-08-20T23:33:00.000-04:00

Apparently those of us involved in the Circling Buzzards missed an important death. Tommy Makem died on August 1 at the age of 74. He was chosen by Izzy and as I recall there were some questions regarding who in the hell Tommy Makem was!!! However, we allowed the pick and now we find out the he has died. Makem was an Irish folk singer who sang with the Clancy Brothers. In 1999 he was listed among the top 100 Irish-Americans of the 20th Century.

Yeah, whatever.

I feel we may be narrowing our criteria in the future.

Still, Tommy Makem died and is worth 26 points to Izzy. He is now on his way to a major victory. Unfortunately, he doesn't even know half the people he has chosen!!!

Really, who in the hell is Gloria Arroyo? Bronson's mom?

Another Lead Change

2007-08-14T14:01:00.000-04:00

Former Yankee great Phil Rizzuto died on Tuesday. Rizzuto was a big part of the Yankees dynasty in the 1940's and 50's. He was a part of seven World Series Championship teams and won the AL MVP in 1950. After playing baseball he became a broadcaster for New York and coined the phrase "Holy Cow!" At the age of 89, he was the oldest living member of the Hall of Fame.

Rizzuto's death gives Izzy another 11 points and puts him back in the lead. This year's competition may not be decided until the end of December!

Bill Walsh Dies, Greg Takes the Lead

2007-07-30T16:23:00.001-04:00

Former San Francisco 49er coaching great Bill Walsh died on Monday. He had been battling Leukemia.

Walsh led the 49ers to three Superbowl victories, two of them over the Bengals. Although he was credited as an offense genius, on his deathbed he wanted to be sure to thank Louis Breeden for the Superbowl XXIII victory.

His death gives Greg the lead in the Circling Buzzards. Would he trade another Death Pool victory for a Bengals Championship?

Greg Gets Close

2007-07-22T11:25:00.000-04:00

Tammy Faye Messner (Baker) died on Friday. The former wife of televangelist Jim Baker had been battling colon cancer for years. She was 65.

At the announcement of her death, several cosmetic companies saw a severe drop in the price of their stocks.

Her death is worth 35 points for Greg. He is now only one good death away from taking the lead away from Izzy.

SON OF A BI**

2007-07-11T22:24:00.000-04:00

The wife of President Lyndon Johnson died on Wednesday. Ladybird, who has been a death pool favorite for years, passed at home amongst family members. She died of natural causes, but had suffered a stroke in 2002. She was 94.

Her death increases Izzy's total to 89. Although the lead is not insurmountable, it is definitely strong.

Izzy pads his lead

2007-06-14T20:58:00.000-04:00

Ruth Graham died on Thursday. She was the wife of famous (infamous?) preacher Billy Graham. She had been bedridden with osteoarthirtis for months, and contracted pneumonia a few weeks ago. She had requested, in agreement with her family, to stop receiving nutrients from a feeding tube several days ago. She was 87 years old.

The additional 13 points gives Izzy a total of 83 points at nearly the half-way mark of the season. While anything is possible, his lead may prevail.

Although I'm hoping her husband can't live without her, his measly 11 points would still leave me in last place.

The Great State of Wyoming Cast 26 Votes for Izzy

2007-06-05T22:46:00.000-04:00

Wyoming Sen. Craig Thomas, a three-term conservative Republican died Monday. He was 74.

Thomas entered Congress in a special election in 1989 to replace Dick Cheney when the future vice president was named defense secretary by the first President Bush. Thomas won that race with 52 percent of the vote.

The senator's family issued a statement saying he died Monday evening at National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. He had been receiving chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia.

Just before the 2006 election, Thomas was hospitalized with pneumonia and had to cancel his last campaign stops. He nonetheless won with 70 percent of the vote, monitoring the election from his hospital bed. Two days after the election, Thomas announced that he had just been diagnosed with leukemia.

A Letter From the #1 pick

2007-05-16T20:11:00.000-04:00

I have highlighted the health notes for those who are too lazy to read it all? Its not a matter of if, but when. Anyone want to make an over/under bet? Thanks for teh link Dave.

My Dear Faithful Friends,

Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, 4th of July and several birthdays of family and friends. Envelopes have become separated, or they are still in piles all over the place to send as yet. I have been on so much medication, so many have been trying to help with thank-you notes......I don't know.

Thank you for the rooms full of flowers, the tables full of cards, and beautiful little gifts laying everywhere. Thank you so much! I know I have missed so many gifts I should have sent for these special occasions. And then, trusting God to heal my sick stomach. Please try to understand.

The doctors have stopped trying to treat the cancer and so now it's up to God and my faith. And that's enough! But please continue to pray for the pain and sick stomach.My precious daughter, Tammy Sue, and her wonderful friends are staying with me while Roe builds churches. They don't want me falling down the stairs. I am down weight wise to 65 pounds, and look like a scarecrow. I need God's miracle to swallow.

To those of you who are suffering as I....."don't give up"!! Make up your mind you're going to LIVE !! That is NOT EASY! The path gets so long. I look at young people and wish with all my heart for just one day of "feeling great". You see, God gives out his promises, they do not lie, they do not fail. We do not have to BEG him for them, they are FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You CAN make it!

Greg leaps out of last

2007-05-15T14:37:00.000-04:00

The Rev. Jerry Falwell has died at the age of 73. Not only does his passing put a touch of joy in Larry Flint's heart, it gives Greg 27 points. He is now in third place with a total of 34.

Dave Takes the Lead

2007-04-23T12:01:00.000-04:00

Former Russian President Boris Yeltsin died early Monday morning. He was 76 years old.

His death gives Dave a total of 48 points as we near the half-way point of the year. Hopefully, these recent deaths for Dave will ease his bitterness much in the same way Yeltsin helped to bring down the Soviet Union.

Ho, Ho, Ho - Dave Jumps into 2nd Place

2007-04-15T09:26:00.000-04:00

Do Ho died yesterday and left Dave 24 tiny points.

Thanks to all of you for your supportive words during this difficult time of uncertainty.

-Dave

P.S. Eat Shit

Falling Behind

2007-02-05T16:04:00.000-05:00

By this time last year, there had been four deaths in the Circling Buzzards - Lou Rawls, Shelly Winters, Coretta King and Al Lewis. This year we only have three deaths so far. Of course I am sure Greg would like to point out that it is Dave that is holding the Buzzards back. I prefer to remain neutral. But next year I'm putting both Dave and Greg on my list as there could be a duel in the near future.

Hey, they'll both be worth 60 points!

A Wasted #5 Pick for Jim

2007-02-04T15:37:00.000-05:00

DETROIT -- A recovering Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan will visit Detroit next month as part of the group's annual "Saviour's Day" observance.
Farrakhan, who last visited Detroit in November 2005, will speak at Ford Field on Feb. 25.

A Wasted #1 Pick for Greg

2007-02-04T15:27:00.000-05:00

Tammy Faye Bakker reports in a December 2006 Christmas note on tammyfaye.com that:

"I'm doin' okay"

A Wasted #1 Pick for Jim

2007-02-04T15:22:00.000-05:00

Castro health improves, regains weight.

Cuban President Fidel Castro is well enough to get out of his hospital bed and has started putting on weight again, according to an interview published in an Argentine newspaper yesterday.

The 80-year-old leader has not appeared in public since undergoing emergency intestinal surgery in late July, handing power temporarily to his brother Raul.

Photos in leftist daily Pagina 12 showed a thin-looking Castro wearing a dressing gown. He told Argentine journalist and lawmaker Miguel Bonasso: "I lost 41 pounds (20 kilograms), but I'm putting weight back on already almost half of what I lost."

In his first media interview since the surgery, Castro said he was still able to give orders. "I can still talk pretty loudly if I want to," he was quoted as saying.

A Wasted #3 Pick for Dave

2007-02-02T21:29:00.000-05:00

The consensus of the weakness of Dave's picks are only supported by the following story from CNN:

Farrah Fawcett's doctor says she is cancer-free
http://www.cnn.com/2007/SHOWBIZ/Movies/02/02/people.farrahfawcett.ap/index.html

Izzy Takes a Lead on Betrand's Death

2007-01-28T17:04:00.000-05:00

Marcheline Bertrand (May 9, 1950 - January 27, 2007)

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Bertrand married Jon Voight on December 12, 1971. The couple had two children, actress Angelina Jolie and director James Haven. Bertrand and Voight separated in 1976 and divorced in 1978.

Jim takes the lead

2007-01-18T11:03:00.000-05:00

Writer Art Buchwald died at the age of 81 on Wednesday. The long-time columnist had checked into a hospice last February due to kidney failure. However, his health improved and he managed to write another book last summer. His death is worth 19 points for Jim.

That gives Jim the early lead and it may grow in short time with the fading health of Fidel Castro.

Not Enough Research

2007-01-06T22:49:00.000-05:00

Momofuku Ando, the inventor of Ramen Noodles died at the age of 96 on Saturday. And while none of the Buzzards drafted him, he deserves recognition. Few of us would have gotten through college without heating up his straw noodles in a styrofoam cup.

Ando would have been worth just four points if someone would have chosen him. But instead he is worth much more than that in late-night munchies.

The Bets

2006-12-29T23:14:00.000-05:00

We have a new bet this year, and I thought it would be good to list everything in case we forget by next Christmas or were drunk when we agreed to this.

Bet 1 - cost $20 each: Highest number of points accumulated by the start of the next draft.
Bet 2 - cost $5 each: First death of the year, highlighted in green.
Bet 3 - cost $5 each: Last death of the year, highlighted in yellow.
Bet 4 - cost $5 each: Highest number of deaths during the year, no payout for ties.

I've already sealed my $35 in an envelope, I just don't know if it needs to go to Minnesota or Maineville (it's certainly not going to Mandy).

Hail to the Chief

2006-12-27T09:26:00.000-05:00

Although the draft is over, the lists are still not complete on the site. And we have not hit 2007! Yet, we have the first death of the '07 season. Last year Dave picked President Ford to pass on - this year Greg takes an early lead. At 93 years old, Ford only gives him seven points, but he wins $5 for the first death of the year.

Trpohy??

2006-12-21T17:09:00.000-05:00

I think we need a trophy for first place each year. Something we can proudly display at work (or home for some of us).

The pic is something I found that can serve as inspiration. I'm thinking maybe a stuffed buzzard in flight might be good.

Just a thought.

Does 5 point = $5

2006-12-20T15:54:00.000-05:00

Joseph Barbara died earlier this week. Not enough for Dave to win but looks like enough to win the $5 side bet for last death.

(Although there is someone chosen on their deathbed that could hit before Saturday. I hope not though, its a great #1 pick)

Congrats on hitting the side bet Dave.

Good News for Izzy - Bad news for Dave- Neutral news for Jim- Still no news for Greg

2006-12-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

Seems that one of Izzy's 'Unkowns' died back in October.- Paul Hunter the snooker player

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/6035879.stm

This gives Izzy the lead and probably the win. But Jim still has last death because he died in October.

While congratulations is given to Izzy, I personally feel this pick really stretched the meaning of "famous". I think we need to discuss some parameters for this (agreement among players or mentioned major news source) because snooker players and assistant minor league hockey coaches are borderline famous at best.

No offense intended Izzy, just think this needs to be brought up. Congrats on the win.

So close, yet.....

2006-12-10T20:10:00.000-05:00

Augusto Pinochet died today giving Jim 9 points and bringing his total to 42 points.

Jim only needs 7 more people on his list to die before he will be in contention for the title.

Best of luck, Jim.

Red Is Dead Baby, Red is Dead

2006-10-29T17:05:00.000-05:00

A sad day in Boston as Red Aurebach, coach and owner of the Celtics Died at the age of 89.

Some of his accomplishments:

• Coached Boston Celtics from 1950 to 1966 winning nine championships, including a stretch from 1959 to 1966 when the Celtics won eight straight NBA championships.
• In 20 years as a coach, he won 938 regular season games, a record that would stand until Lenny Wilkens broke it in the 1994-95 season.
• Led Boston to 99 playoff victories, fourth all-time behind Phil Jackson, Pat Riley and Larry Brown.
• Finished with nine NBA championship rings, later tied by Phil Jackson
• NBA Coach of the Year in 1965.
• Coached 11 Hall of Famers.

Congats to Jim and his 11 points

'tis the Season?

2006-10-29T10:15:00.000-05:00

Could it be? Is it really true? After 4 months of circling the buzzards were getting tired and hungry. Thanks to the unselfishness of Celtics coaching legend Red Auerbach, who died yesterday at the age of 89, the buzzards now go into the holiday season with full bellies, and Jim with an additional 11 points.

In the spirit of Christmas, The Great Pumpkin, and the brotherhood of mankind, let's hope and pray for no additional deaths from our list this year. Of course if such a tragic event should occur, let them all be on my list.

Death Pool Dilemma

2006-06-28T14:44:00.000-04:00

A famous television star died recently and although he was not chosen by anyone in the Circling Buzzards, his death brings up an interesting point. The star I am referring to is named Moose but you know him best as 'Eddie', the Jack Russell terrier from the hit show Frasier.

Moose was 16 years old at the time of his death - that's 112 in dog years. And that is the potential dilemma. In the future is it okay to draft famous animals and if so how do we calculate the points?

Moose died last week and he could have been worth 84 or -12 points for someone.

Thanks for the lead, Aaron!

2006-06-24T09:46:00.000-04:00

Aaron Spelling died today at the age of 83. Spelling was the richest man in Hollywood, and is credited with producing pretty much everything we watched on television in our younger years. While he will be remembered for shows such as Charlie's Angels, Dynasty, Beverly Hills 90210, Melrose Place, Love Boat, Fantasy Island, The Mod Squad, Starsky and Hutch, T.J. Hooker and Hart to Hart, I will remember him most as the man with the ugliest daughter in show business.

Abu Musab Al-Zarqawi (don't call me Kareem) Killed in Air Raid

2006-06-08T07:00:00.000-04:00

Is he really dead, or just hanging out with Jimmy Hoffa and Elvis? Either way the 61 points Dave gets for his reported death are the greatest number of points received from any one death in the entire history of our death pool (a whopping 1.5 years).

BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) -- Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, al-Qaida's leader in Iraq who led a bloody campaign of suicide bombings and kidnappings, has been killed in an air strike, U.S. and Iraqi officials said Thursday, adding that his identity was confirmed by fingerprints and a look at his face. It was a major victory in the U.S.-led war in Iraq and the broader war on terror.

Dave Reaches the Leaderboard

2006-05-03T16:16:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday Earl Woods, father to golfing great Tiger Woods, died after a long battle with cancer. Earl was vital to the lifelong career of perhaps the greatest golfer ever.

Although we at Circling Buzzards had previously been unable to determine the birthdate of Woods, reports indicate he died at the age of 74. That gives Dave 26 points and vaults him from last to second place. Nice putt Dave!

Dana Reeve adds to big lead

2006-03-07T10:52:00.000-05:00

Actress Dana Reeve died on Monday at the age 44. After spending years fighting for possible cures to paralysis with her husband Christopher, she was diagnosed with lung cancer last summer. She was not a regular smoker.

It is the third death for league leader Izzy who now has a whopping 102 points. And Ariel Sharon is still hanging on!

Ciao Grampa and Thanks for the Bonus Points

2006-02-05T08:38:00.000-05:00

Grampa Al Lewis has died. While it is always good to see a one of your picks give it up, this one comes with an added bonus - The family of Al is reporting that he was 82 and not 95 as had been widely reported. Below is a short obituary excerpted from Larry McShane of the Associated Press:

Al Lewis, the cigar-chomping patriarch of "The Munsters" whose work as a basketball scout, restaurateur and political candidate never eclipsed his role as Grandpa from the television sitcom, died after years of failing health. He was 82. The actor was widely reported to have been born in 1910, but his son Ted Lewis said Saturday that his father was born in 1923.

Lewis, sporting a somewhat cheesy Dracula outfit, became a pop culture icon playing the irascible father-in-law to Fred Gwynne's ever-bumbling Herman Munster on the 1964-66 television show. He was also one of the stars of another classic TV comedy, playing Officer Leo Schnauzer on "Car 54, Where Are You?" He operated a successful Greenwich Village restaurant, Grandpa's, where he was a regular presence — chatting with customers, posing for pictures, signing autographs.

In 1998, a ponytailed Lewis ran as the Green Party candidate against incumbent Gov. George Pataki. Lewis campaigned against what he said were draconian drug laws and the death penalty, while going to court in a losing battle to have his name appear on the ballot as "Grandpa Al Lewis." He didn't defeat Pataki, but managed to collect more than 52,000 votes.

But in 2003, Lewis was hospitalized for an angioplasty. Complications during surgery led to an emergency bypass and the amputation of his right leg below the knee and all the toes on his left foot. Lewis spent the next month in a coma.

How old was Al Lewis really?

2006-02-04T22:59:00.000-05:00

Al Lewis, Grandpa on "The Munsters" and also starring in "Car 54 Where Are You?" died Friday at the age of 82 giving Izzy another 18 points.

There is some substantial amount of debate as to the true year of birth for Al Lewis. Some sources say 1910, some say 1923. According to an interview with his family members, the 1910 date is a "story" and the real date is 1923, which is apparently backed up by official paperwork.

http://www.wa-wd.com/h_intro.asp#allewis

Q. Wasn't Al Lewis really born in 1910?
A. No, he was born on 23 April 1923. This has been documented on his birth certificate and college application. These documents were shown on an episode of "A&E Biography" in 2000. I know, he claims to have been in the circus in the 1920s and in the merchant marine in the 1930s, but he wasn't really. He lied about his age to get the part of Grandpa, and he's been lying about it ever since.

Jim is on the Board

2006-01-31T09:16:00.000-05:00

Coretta Scott King died Monday evening at the age of 78. She had been ill the past few months after suffering a stroke in the autumn of 2005. King spent her life fighting for equality alongside her husband, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. After his assassination she continued the fight for equal rights while raising their four children.

Her death is the first of the year for Jim but the third for the Circling Buzzards. In 2005 the first death occurred on February 11 (Arthur Miller).

With 22 points Jim is in second place, six behind Izzy.

Birthday: Dana Reeve

2006-01-19T20:04:00.000-05:00

Although she has acted on numerous television programs, Dana Reeve is best known as the widow of actor Christopher Reeve. The former Superman star was paralyzed in 1995 in a horse riding accident. Since that time he and his wife worked to raise funding for paralysis research. After Christopher died in October of 2004, Dana has continued their work. However, in August of last year Dana was diagnosed with lung cancer. At the age 45 she has never smoked.

If Dana Reeve died today she would be worth 55 points for Izzy.

Birthday: Mohammed Ali

2006-01-17T10:04:00.000-05:00

Born Cassius Clay in 1942, Ali started boxing at the age of twelve. As an amateur he won Gold Glove Championships in 1959 and 1960 before winning a gold medal in the 1960 Rome Olympics. Shortly after the Olympics he turned professional and in 1964 he won the heavyweight title by beating the highly favored Sonny Liston. Two days after the fight Ali announced his conversion to Islam. He would defend his title eight times before being called into military service in 1967. He refused the call-up and was stripped of his world title.

Ali returned to the ring in 1971 and lost a tough battle against current World Champ Joe Frazier. Three years later he fought George Foreman in one of the best publicized boxing matches ever - the ‘Rumble in the Jungle.’ Ali knocked out Foreman and regained the heavyweight title. In 1975 Ali defended his title versus Joe Frazier in the ‘Thrilla in Manila.’ After ten more defenses of his title, Ali lost to Leon Spinks but again won it back from him in 1978. His final title loss was to Larry Holmes and shortly afterward Ali retired for good.

Outside of the ring Ali always fought social injustices, including war and civil rights. But in 1982 he began fighting a different kind of opponent – Parkinson’s disease. More specifically, Ali suffers from Pugilistic Parkinsonism, brought on by repetitive trauma to the head. Although the disease has slowed him down, he still remains active in world politics.

If Ali died today he would be worth 36 points for Izzy.

The Soothsayer Strikes Back

2006-01-14T17:56:00.000-05:00

Shelley Winters died today giving Greg 15 points.

I can just hear him reflecting from his Maineville estate, "darn...I miseed $15 by 8 days."

Don't worry, Greg. After the punishment we received last year, I think we would have been wise to have just bet on how badly you will school us again in this year's Death Pool. I wonder how that over/under would have looked...

Lou Rawls Dead at 72

2006-01-06T12:09:00.000-05:00

Grammy Award winner Lou Rawls died early friday morning. Rawls had been hospitalized for more than a month for treatmnent of lung and brain cancer.

It is the first death in the Circling Buzzards 2006 death pool. Izzy used the top pick wisely with his choice of Rawls. Along with an early 28 point lead, Izzy wins the $5 side bet for having the first death.

Izzy could increase his lead significantly as the world watches the fate of Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon.

Sharon Not Looking Good, But Could Linger

2006-01-04T18:38:00.000-05:00

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon suffered a massive stroke Wednesday and was on a respirator after falling ill at his ranch. Doctors operated to drain excess blood from his brain. Dr. Shlomo Mor-Yosef, director of Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem, said Sharon suffered "a significant stroke," adding that he was "under anesthetic and receiving breathing assistance." A few minutes later, Mor-Yosef emerged to say that initial tests showed Sharon had suffered a cerebral hemorrhage, or bleeding in his brain. Mor-Yosef said Sharon, 77 and overweight, had "massive bleeding and was being transferred to an operating theater."

"The fact that he's on a respirator means its extremely serious," said Dr. Philip Steig, chair of neurosurgery at Weill-Cornell Medical Center in New York. However, he said that depending on the severity of the stroke, doctors may be able to sustain Sharon on a respirator for weeks.

Details

2006 Death List Posted

2005-12-31T23:16:00.000-05:00

The 2005 Death Pool ended with Greg winning with 77 points, Jim with 31 points, Dave with 20 points and Izzy with 15 points.

Tonight we gathered at a semi secret location in Hyde Park to pick our lists for 2006 which is posted below. This year we chose 20 names instead of 15 because that allowed us more time to drink beer. After our lists were completed we played poker for a few more hours, again for more beer.

9 minutes into the draft a side wager was proposed and accepted. $5 each to the player whose list contains the first casualty this year. Another $5 for the person whose list contains the last casualty of the year.

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas Greg - From Ariel?

2005-12-18T17:36:00.000-05:00

Ariel Sharon was rushed to the hospital today after suffering what appears to be a "non life threatening" mild stroke.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4540550.stm

Because we can trust everything we hear from that Sharon camp....

Greg has pretty much achieved soothsayer status in my book. The $20 I was going to pay to participate in the 2006 death pool is now going directly to Greg in return for some lottery numbers.

We're Not Worthy

2005-12-10T16:44:00.000-05:00

As tempting as it is to comment on the life and times of Richard Pryor, given the circumstances, and the $20 I will soon part with, I feel obligated to recognize Mr. Guthrie and his amazing feat of 4 out of the top 5 people on his list cashing in. Quite impressive.

And yes, there is still time for Ladybird to fly the coop for the perfect 5/5.

Maybe Peterson or 50 Cent will send me a nice present this year.

But that's not nice to wish for.

Certainly Greg will pick last in the 2006 draft?

Birthday: Walter Cronkite

2005-11-04T09:46:00.000-05:00

Born in St. Joseph's, Missouri in 1916, Walter Cronkite is one of the most influential TV journalists of the 20th Century. Cronkite began his career covering World War II for the United Press. He landed with troops on D-Day, flew bombing missions over Germany and covered the Nuremberg trials. He also opened the first post-war Moscow news bureau.

In 1950 he joined CBS and first made a name for himslef covering the 1952 presidential nominating conventions. After numerous assignments with CBS, Cronkite took over the position of news anchor in April of 1962. Within a year the program was expanded from 15 to 30 minutes and his first half-hour show included an interview with President Kennedy. A few months later Cronkite made television history by announcing, with tears in his eyes, the assassination of the President.

Cronkite's career would continue to be marked by significant moments in American and World history. Upon his return from Vietnam, he declared the war to be a "stalemate" and encouraged the eventual peace talks. During the Apollo XI mission he remained on the air for nearly 30 hours. In 1972 he encouraged CBS News to continue the investigation of the Watergate scandal. In an interview with Anwar Sadat in 1977 he asked if the Egyptian President would be willing to meet with Israel - resulting in the Camp David peace accords.

In 1981 Cronkite retired from CBS. However he has remained active in television. In his retirement he has hosted numerous television shows and documentaries for CBS, PBS, the Discovery Channel and The Learning Channel.

If Walter Cronkite died today he would be worth 11 points for Izzy.

Greg pads his lead

2005-10-25T09:27:00.000-04:00

With the passing of Rosa Parks, Greg now has a total of 42 points. That gives him an 11 point lead and with only a few months left that amount may very well hold up. Here's the breakdown:

Greg - 42 points
Jim - 31 points
Dave - 20 points
Izzy - 15 points

"I did not get on that bus to get arrested. I got on the bus to go home."
- Rosa Parks

Birthday: Bob Geldof

2005-10-05T19:25:00.000-04:00

Born in 1951 in Dublin, Ireland, Robert Frederick Zenon Geldof first came to fame as the front man for the 70's new wave band The Boomtown Rats. The group had a string of hits in the U.K. including the song "I Don't Like Mondays." In 1982 Geldof took on the role of Pink in the movie Pink Floyd's: The Wall.

In 1984 Geldof organized over 40 British singers and musicians to record the song "Do They Know It's Christmas." The group, known as Band Aid, raised money to help prevent starvation in Africa. The project led to an even big endeavor, Live Aid. Geldof organized the all-day, two-continent charity concert with great success.

Geldof is divorced but has three children. He continues to make music as well as raise awareness of the plight of the African people.

If Bob Geldof died today he would be worth 49 points for Dave.

Birthday: Charlton Heston

2005-10-04T20:28:00.000-04:00

Charlton 'Chuck' Heston is known as one of the greatest and most politically controversial actors of the 20th century. Although he began his career on broadway and in television, he made a name for himself in the epic mega-productions of the 1950's. His career took off with a role in The Greatest Show on Earth and skyrocketed with The Ten Commandments. He won his first oscar in 1959 for Ben-Hur.

In the late 1960's Heston turned to science fiction. He starred in Plant of the Apes and followed that with roles in The Omega Man and Soylent Green.

In the 1980's Heston began taking a greater interest in politics. He was named co-chairman of President Reagan's Task Force on the Arts and Humanities. He served on the National Council for the Arts and served four terms as President of the National Rifle Association of America.

Charlton has been married to his wife Lydia for 51 years. They have two children and two grandchildren. He has recently overcome prostate cancer and has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

If Charlton Heston was shot down with a machine gun today, he would be worth 19 points for Greg.

Circling Buzzards

Jose Alencar - March 29, 2011

Christopher Hitchens - Dec 15, 2011

Eleanor Mondale - Sept 17, 2011

iDead

Another Update!!

Update!!!

The first lingerer of the year - Elizabeth Taylor

RIP - Captain

Death on the Pile

Some Don't Like it Hot

8 Seconds - 50 Points

Lead Change

Not So Golden

A Black Day

Links & Stats

Famous Enough?

Typical Izzy

The Lists Are Now Available

2010

Helter Skelter - Greg is on a Streak

Greg is finally on the board

Patrick Swayze - truly a ghost

Getting Ridiculous

Izzy Rules

One More for Jim

Another Two-Death Day

Dave Scores a Goal

Jacob on the Board

The Trifecta

Izzy Jumps Ahead

H-e-e-e-e-e-e-r-e's Izzy

The Rest of the Story

Jim Strikes First

A New Year

Missed One

Merry Christmas Dave

Studs Terkel

Sherrill "Psycho" Headrick Dead

Not So Golden

Princeton High Grad Passes at 53

Izzy Goes Back-to-Back

Izzy's on the Board!

Holy Fucking Shit! George Carlin died!

Bo knows....

Fashionable Pick Dies

Pry The Gun

Rug keeps Rolling

Good Night Bob

First Death

The Bets - 2008

The Leader of the Band has... DIED

Not So Evel

Pavawho? is Dead

A Post-Mortem Boo-Boo

Another Lead Change

Bill Walsh Dies, Greg Takes the Lead

Greg Gets Close

SON OF A BI**

Izzy pads his lead

The Great State of Wyoming Cast 26 Votes for Izzy

A Letter From the #1 pick

Greg leaps out of last

Dave Takes the Lead

Ho, Ho, Ho - Dave Jumps into 2nd Place

Falling Behind

A Wasted #5 Pick for Jim

DETROIT -- A recovering Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan will visit Detroit next month as part of the group's annual "Saviour's Day" observance.Farrakhan, who last visited Detroit in November 2005, will speak at Ford Field on Feb. 25.

A Wasted #1 Pick for Greg

A Wasted #1 Pick for Jim

A Wasted #3 Pick for Dave

Izzy Takes a Lead on Betrand's Death

Jim takes the lead

Not Enough Research

The Bets

Hail to the Chief

Trpohy??

Does 5 point = $5

Good News for Izzy - Bad news for Dave- Neutral news for Jim- Still no news for Greg

So close, yet.....

DETROIT -- A recovering Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan will visit Detroit next month as part of the group's annual "Saviour's Day" observance.
Farrakhan, who last visited Detroit in November 2005, will speak at Ford Field on Feb. 25.