Rumple 2008: New Beginnings

Garland Resort
Lewiston, MI

Done and done. Can you imagine that we have been at this six years now?

We are diverse enough to include Seniors, Half-wits and Hipsters (Sherman, you are on the clock) and depraved enough to engage in acts of indignity that get you on a list somewhere.

The Flying Dutchman Huttenga pulled off the trophy trifecta in 2008, taking the Raw title (2004, 2008) for the 2nd time in addition to his Grand title (2005).

Mike, Gun Range Jesus, Grigg continued his climb up the Raw leader board (5th) by dropping strokes for yet another year. And, on his way, he grabbed the Grand title and a spot on the trophy.

If history serves us well, that would be Sowash's two finger salute to all things photo. And, any more hair and Grigg is going to need a Tramp Clamp (see Bitch Clip).

The Smooveskin title, once again, went unclaimed. Being one of the many 'marrieds', I'll refrain from comment on you single dudes.

One more year and we are going to spot check your hetero cards. It's not as though 2008 didn't have its share of surprises. Looking back, perhaps the most surprising was that Hetzel took this long to take the Knuckleskin honors. (I can't believe it even now...)

How'd he do it? Well, you'll have to read on. Sometimes the Knuckleskin is known the moment it happens, a singular event that leaves no doubt. This time, it's a lifestyle. And, putting the pieces together, it defines the essence of what the Rumple was last year and is every year. Also, and perhaps more importantly, what it is not.

Lesson 1: Thus quoth Oleta Adams "I don't care how you get here, just get here if you can."

Rumplers once again poured in from the four corners to make the magic happen; New York, St. Louis, Las Vegas, North Dakota and all points Michigan. Most distinctly, the North Dakotan 1 turned into the North Dakota 5. Brace yourself youngins, early indications point to a 6th in '09.

Following in the footsteps of Rumples past, the ND5 (boy band anyone?) piled into stink on wheels... more