It's been quite a year. And it looks like the 2008 cycle is starting to heat up in a big way. So I'm taking this opportunity to sign off for a week, spend some time with my family, hopefully recharge my engines and generally clear my head. The tried and true and excellent TPM Team will be here to keep you up to date with the very latest news, commentary and revelations.

And one small request. We've already gotten a number of great nominations for this year's first annual Golden Duke awards. So take a look at the rules and directions for the contest and then send in nominations for who you think are the most deserving crooks, scofflaws and evildoers in the various categories.

I'll see you in a week.