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NiteOwl Needs Your Help

44
Vote

by Tyrone Briggs

From NiteOwl's blog posted today :

Notice Yesterday we were served with an eviction notice with 48 hours to pay or move out of our apartment. Just in case we can't come up with the money I wanted to let the readers know what happened if there are no more posts forthcoming from Baseball Etcetera.

If we cannot come up with the money by tomorrow we may be forced to move out with only the barest necessities. If there are no more posts I want to thank everyone for reading Baseball Etcetera which started in May of 2004.

May God bless each reader if we are unable to write again. There is still a slim chance of not being evicted but as of today the future looks very bleak.

Thank you for understanding,

Andrew

It is my belief that a purpose of ArmchairGM was to help nurture and cultivate new writers with the hopes and aspirations of one day becoming a professional journalist.

For some of us, including myself, that is not a reality. However, Andrew Godfrey has an ability to concisely articulate the current sports' scene (especially towards baseball) with statistical supporting evidence along with drawing upon a lifetime of experience.

In his time here at ArmchairGM, Andrew has been an invaluable member to our community. He needs our help now. Yes, it is Thanksgiving and perhaps not the most convenient timing for our own personal family celebrations and holiday festivities. But take a moment and just imagine yourself in his position right now facing a 48 hour eviction notice just received the day before Thanksgiving.

We can help.

The following link provides all of Andrew's work here at the 'Chair: http://www.armchairgm.com/Category:Opinions_by_User_Niteowl049

As you can well see, it is quite impressive in quantity and quality. Andrew would be an asset for any sports blog looking for a columnist to provide its readership an accurate recap of the previous day's sporting activities along with insightful commentary.

For those curious about his past, please read the following:

Served in Hawaii and Vietnam with the 25th Administration Company of the 25th Infantry Division from June 1963 till May 1966 as a postal clerk. Retired newspaper production worker having worked 36 years for Alexandria, Louisiana Town Talk. Have been fortunate enough to see Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris, Ted Williams in baseball games in Kansas City back in the 60's.Also have seen Elvis Presley, Beach Boys,Righteous Brothers, Ernest Tubb and Loretta Lynn,Merle Haggard, Buck Owens,Johnny Cash and seen Julie Newmar, Stefanie Powers and Sue Thompson in person. Enjoy southern gospel music especially the Dove Brothers Quartet. Like listening to old time radio shows from the 30's, 40's and 50's and like easy listening music by Diana Krall and Frank Sinatra. Emails can be sent to Niteowl049@msn.com

When his country called upon him, Andrew gladly served his country. For some of the younger readers here at the ArmchairGM (and Cyberspace in general), that may or may not be fully appreciated. However to some of us older folks, that selfless act of courage and bravery will never be forgotten nor unappreciated. Plain and simple, Mr. Godfrey deserves a shot. If you are reading this message (because many of us here at the 'Chair are hopeful that this message will reach several message boards, sports blogs and websites) and are in a position to make a difference for a person overdue for an opportunity, Andrew is your man.

In the following comment section below, please post why Andrew Godfrey (aka Niteowl049) deserves his moment to shine. Think carefully before you type. Your words will have a dramatic impact upon a reader deciding whether or not to provide Andrew his rightful opportunity. And be fully aware that this is not a trite matter of fulfilling some personal quest. The man is in need of emergency assistance of real life financial difficulties with a consequence of not even having a roof over his head tonight.

Think about it. And do the right thing.

Note to Admins: Please, please, please do not move this to the Locker Room. It is my hope that enough people will vote for this article, so it gets on the front page and out there on the web so others can take notice. This is most definitely an issue that transcends "sports". Also, I am begging Will Leitch to get this on Deadspin. If the article is moved then any redirects will not come back here


Enable Comment Auto-Refresher
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 10+-
Your ideas, suggestions, advice, edits (if it improves the above), comments, anything makes a difference versus doing nothing at all.
Permalink | Reply
Oh No RomoDraft Pick
324 days ago
Score 12+-
Niteowl is without a doubt one of the best writers on this site and the fact that his idiot landlord would evict him on Thanksgiving is a load of monkey crap.
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 10+-
Would you mind posting this article on your blog? The more people that reads this message, the more we are helping NiteOwl.
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Oh No RomoDraft Pick
324 days ago
Score 10+-
Yeah I usually don't get a lot of readers, but I'm a sneaky bastard. I can figure something out.
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RomiezzoLegend
324 days ago
Score 9+-
That's a good idea.
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Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 10+-
I am asking everyone out there with a blog to please consider posting/linking/commenting/anything about this article concerning NiteOwl. I'm willing to forgo my family time today to help NiteOwl.
Permalink
Oh No RomoDraft Pick
324 days ago
Score 9+-
That's very admirable of you TB
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Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 8+-
We can help him. But we need to act now. I've already written to Will. I hope somebody over at Deadspin is checking email today.
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CoreyisarealboyMajor Leaguer
324 days ago
Score 10+-
I don't feel that I've done enough by simply voting for this article. Please, Niteowl, if you need any more assistance, let us know.
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 7+-
Corey - if you have a blog, please, please post something about this article (Niteowl's situation) Also to anyone here on the 'Chair - please email the link to Will over at Deadspin. (tips@deadspin.com) The more requests the greater the chance we have to getting Niteowl's story out there.
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Oh No RomoDraft Pick
324 days ago
Score 8+-
I'm e-mailing TBL now
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Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 7+-
Any lawyers/members on the 'Chair now?
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 8+-
Is DNL here? Is it possible to set up a Palpal account for NiteOwl? I think everyone here would have no problem if Dan might help us setting that up here?
Permalink | Reply
LASportsblogAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 7+-
I don't have much pull other then re-posting this on my own blog and helping it to get cross published. This is a noble jesture for a good writer. I'd hire him myself if I made money writing.
Permalink | Reply
Manny StilesAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 5+-
Times are tough at Casa de Stiles, too. BUT NOT THAT TOUGH. I'll gladly help, but I haven't touched any of my blogs in months - no one has complained so I know they're not getting read. I can't do much (count me in for at least $50) but we can raise more money some how. The question is - how do we get it to him in time?
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 7+-
I was thinking about opening a paypal account but have no idea how to do so. Maybe DNL could set that up?
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 7+-
Hey fellow bloggers, if you post the story, please put the link on this comment page. BTW - http://angry...ing-weekend/
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Oh No RomoDraft Pick
324 days ago
Score 7+-
Noted
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TehLokiVarsity
324 days ago
Score 8+-
Man, I'm currently unemployed myself and broke. If I had any money I would gladly give it to help. I feel really bad I'm unable to help at all. The best I can offer is my prayers for you niteOwl. I'd give my last dollar to you if I had one. I hope you can get the money someway, I have read your articles and do agree you are one of the best writers I have seen on here in my short time.
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 8+-
Hey dude, you are helping by commenting and offering prayers. If you have a blog, would you mind posting this article or its link? Every little bit helps.
Permalink
TehLokiVarsity
324 days ago
Score 7+-
I could post this via my myspace. And anyone who can help would respond to me and I can let you know.
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Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 6+-
That would be great. Please put the link here when you get a chance. And thank you.
Permalink
TehLokiVarsity
324 days ago
Score 7+-
It's been posted. I'll be home till about 3 pm. When I get back from my dinner with my dad, I will see how many replies I received. I'll also ask some friends/family throughout the day as well.
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Oh No RomoDraft Pick
324 days ago
Score 7+-
I've been pretty active. I posted on ONR, a forum that I frequent and I've e-mailed Deadspin and TBL. I know you already e-mailed Deadspin, TB, but I figure the more e-mails they get about this situation, the more likely they are to write about it.
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 7+-
Yes, that is great that you also sent the link to Deadspin. I encourage everyone here to do this as well. Will is a good guy and I think he will try to help.
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TehLokiVarsity
324 days ago
Score 8+-
http://blog....ID=330990641 There you go
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 5+-
Terrific! Thanks again.
Permalink
TehLokiVarsity
324 days ago
Score 6+-
I didn't know he enjoyed Sinatra as well. I'm young and enjoy Sinatra. I'mma go see what money I can scrape up.
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 5+-
I cannot help but wonder if ONE PHONE CALL from an attorney could help at least stall the eviction notice. It can be miraculous when the right communication is delivered by the right person with the right expertise at the right time.
Permalink | Reply
TehLokiVarsity
324 days ago
Score 6+-
I've now posted it as my AIM away message and on the Steam Community(I cant post a link because you must have steam for it, which is a gaming platform for Counterstrike, I have about 40 friends, they'll read it.) I must get ready for thanksgiving though. I will be checking periodically for info.
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
Thanks dude - great idea! Have a good holiday!
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 6+-
Thanks for the votes. Keep it going. And please, if you have not already done so, please comment/offer support for NiteOwl.
Permalink | Reply
OneflydudeAll-American
324 days ago
Score 7+-
This is ridiculous. I been praying ever since I heard about this. I posted links in a few Facebook groups already and I am def willing to give money. This happened to me when I was 5 years old and me and my mom was forced to move out with nowhere to go. It sucks and I suggest that everybody try to help out in any way, whether its giving money, emailing people or just even taking a second to pray for him.
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 6+-
Thanks for the comment and support! Please post your link here. I think (might be wrong) but the more URLs reciprocated, the greater the chances for more search engines to find the story and help circulate the news.
Permalink
Oh No RomoDraft Pick
324 days ago
Score 5+-
Yeah, I have to go and get ready to head home. I'll check in later if I can. Take care guys
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
Thanks for help ONR - have a great dinner and enjoy your time with the family!
Permalink
Oh No RomoDraft Pick
324 days ago
Score 5+-
Take care TB, and huge props to you for doing this
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
If it makes a difference, that is all that matters. This is about NiteOwl.
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
Anyone else out there with new ideas/suggestions?
Permalink | Reply
LASportsblogAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 4+-
Okay TB I sent an e-mail to everyone at the local News TV station in his area. I'm going to post their e-mail addresses in the Locker Room so that we can all e-mail them.
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
Thanks! You are the best LA! I wanna put together a "press release" for NiteOwl so that maybe others can "copy&paste" and send to other media outlets. Keep up the great work!
Permalink
Hit By a PitchVarsity
324 days ago
Score 5+-
I see from his blog that he's in TN. I'll see if I can find any legal resources there that might be helpful.
Permalink | Reply
Hit By a PitchVarsity
324 days ago
Score 5+-
The UT College of Law has a pro bono program, but I doubt anybody would be around today. Here's the contact information:

Professor Dean Hill Rivkin Chair, Pro Bono and Public Interest Law Committee (865) 974-1481 rivkin@libra.law.utk.edu

Professor Doug Blaze Associate Dean & UT Pro Bono Advisor (865) 974-2252

blaze@utk.edu
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
Awesome info - I hope NiteOwl is able to read your information.
Permalink
OneflydudeAll-American
324 days ago
Score 5+-
http://www.f...d=5785499237

That was a note I posted on Facebook

Ill try to email radio stations and tv stations
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
Great work!
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
BTW gang:

This article is now on the front page of Jay the Joke:

http://www.j...omments/383/
Permalink | Reply
CoreyisarealboyMajor Leaguer
324 days ago
Score 5+-
Is he in Louisiana or Tennessee, his profile says La. and his blog says Tenn.
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 3+-
I thought he was in Louisiana. Pretty sure his blog is older (probably not updated) than his profile here at the 'Chair.
Permalink
Hit By a PitchVarsity
324 days ago
Score 4+-
This site provides a summary of the eviction process in LA: http://tinyurl.com/2ujx99. I don't know if it's accurate, but hopefully it might be helpful. It says:

If the reason for the eviction is for non-payment of rent or a violation of the lease, the tenant has no less than five (5) days after receiving the notice to vacate. Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays are not counted in these five (5) days....

If the Notice to Quit has been served, the required number of days have passed, and the tenant and/or his belongings still occupy the premises, the landlord must then file with the court (District Court, City Court, Justice of the Peace) a Rule to Show Cause. A court date, not earlier than the third day after service, is scheduled and the tenant is served notice to appear. Again, if the tenant cannot be found, the notice is posted on a door.
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 3+-
This is awesome info HBP.

Geez, are there any of our attorney friends here?

Perhaps simply providing this info to this jackass of a landlord along with an understanding that NiteOwl has some type of representation might help prevent him from potentially illegally being forced out of his home?
Permalink
JuTMSY4Legend
324 days ago
Score 4+-
my understanding of eviction laws is that its terribly difficult to evict someone...and in fact generally not done because its so hard... baffling that someone would do this...
Permalink
LASportsblogAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 3+-
Do your part to help NiteOwl: http://www.a...._Here's_How!
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 3+-
Text is not yet showing.
Permalink
LASportsblogAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 3+-
It works if you go to it through the Locker Room, I don't know why it won't work through the link
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 3+-
No problem-o. I find it and followed your advice. It is a great idea and hope others do the same.
Permalink
Manny StilesAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 8+-
Check this out:

Figure out how they can get to Phoenix and they can live with us for a while.

I thought about it, threw it out there and Wifey said he's more than welcome! He'll have to share the computer with me and the kids, but... come on out!

I told him this when he first joined, I'll share it - My nickname in college (Temple Univ. Owls) was "THE Night Owl". I swear to you, my first word was "owl" - because my Mom collected owl figurines, pictures, and paraphernalia of all varieties. I've enjoyed this guys contributions from day one, I got no problem lending some of my extra space.
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 5+-
You got a big heart. Kudos.
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LASportsblogAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 4+-
Manny what a noble gesture! Not just by you, but by the wife as well. Mrs. Stiles must be some kinda lady to be so giving, understanding and kind. I'm going to keep the pressure on with the news station because obviously moving across the country for someone who is already broke can't be easy. But your generosity is far greater then anyone else has been able (or willing) to provide. Thank you Manny, god bless! NG
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
Agreed. An absolutely huge and terrific gesture from the Stiles family.
Permalink
Manny StilesAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 4+-
It's not totally out of charity, I need a babysitter! (cheesy smile emoticon here)

Seriously, I love adventures like these...

If I could work it out with the kids and wifey's work, I'd drive to LA. and get them... (I love roadtrips and I haven't been to Weesyanna since Summer 2005!)
Permalink
Manny StilesAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 4+-
Plus I could use a quality "sidekick/photographer" in the Press Boxes I scam my way into...
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 3+-
You and NiteOwl traveling back to Phoenix in the same car. Wow, I'm just trying to picture the non-stop baseball stories!  :)
Permalink
Manny StilesAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 3+-
It would be like Easy Rider meets Field of Dreams with slightly less coke...
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LASportsblogAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 3+-
if by less you mean more
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Manny StilesAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 3+-
... and going West instead of East. But that way we won't get blasted by hicks! (Downside: we'll have to rendez vous with Phil Specter at the airport)
Permalink
PleatsnCleatsVarsity
324 days ago
Score 5+-
Aww, I'm going to tear up. That is so sweet of you.
Permalink
Manny StilesAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 4+-
It's not sweet if he's allergic to cats - I have two.
Permalink
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
Update: A good friend of mine "BigBadBill" has a connection with the VA who can try and help. Please read here: http://www.j...thread/2051/
Permalink | Reply
LASportsblogAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 3+-
Nice, we're building a network of support quickly for this cause
Permalink
PleatsnCleatsVarsity
324 days ago
Score 6+-
I am an attorney and I actually have practiced a little landlord/tenant law in the past. I can't give advice on the laws of Tennessee since I don't practice there and am not barred there, but I do know that in most jurisdictions, someone cannot be forcibly evicted without a court order. I don't know if they have had prior court proceedings that would allow for such a short time period, because 48 hours to vacate sounds like there were some prior events.

If you can communicate with NiteOwl, I would tell him to try to go to landlord/tenant court tomorrow to fight it. There should be volunteer tenant attorneys there, but if not, the clerk's office should be able to provide him with the name of a pro bono attorney who might be able to assist him.

I will keep him and his family in my prayers. Thanks for doing this Tyrone.
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 3+-
Thanks for taking the time to respond PNC. I am hoping that NiteOwl is still able to check out this information or in the very least can respond.
Permalink
False ProphetAll-Star
324 days ago
Score 3+-
For the record Tyrone something like this breaks the rules on opinions/lockerrooms, meaning that while technically it belongs in the lockerroom, cirucmstances dictate otherwise. If I could help at all, I could, but alas, I don't think that I can
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 3+-
If you have a blog or post on message boards, mentioning this matter about NiteOwl would be greatly helpful.
Permalink
Manny StilesAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 3+-
How many times do I have to tell you? Rules are for people who follow rules.

This has TONS of sports opinion in it!

Go Owl!!!!

see?
Permalink
Alex HolowczakHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
I think this is fantastic. Great work everyone.
Permalink | Reply
PleatsnCleatsVarsity
324 days ago
Score 4+-
I have posted it on my blog as well: http://pleat...est-for.html
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 5+-
Very nicely done PCN - gang check out her post about NiteOwl. It is terrific!
Permalink
PleatsnCleatsVarsity
324 days ago
Score 5+-
I am happy to do my small part. I'm headed to the fam's house to eat, but I'll log on later. If there's info about giving money through PayPal, you can e-mail me at pleatsncleats@gmail.com and I'll do it.
Permalink
Alex HolowczakHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 6+-
Time for some inspirational music! I tried to find the Mr Burns thing where he played this song, but Smithers taped over it with Waterloo by ABBA. So instead, I had to settle for this. Enjoy!
Permalink | Reply
Tyrone BriggsHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 5+-
Alex - any word yet from the Beckhams donating to this worthy cause? After all, they only took millions from the LA Galaxy for doing next to nothing. This would be a nice way to give back!
Permalink
Alex HolowczakHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 3+-
I think David is still recovering from losing to Croatia, and hence being eliminated from Euro2008. And his wife has joined the "Spice Girls", who have reformed, so she'll be over here for a while. Are you suggesting that the Spice Girls should have been the inspirational music? I hope not - you can't be that insane...
Permalink
Manny StilesAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 3+-
I liked that song better in Apocalypse Now Whenever I need inspiration, I watch this guy - after about a minute in...
Permalink
Alex HolowczakHall of Famer
324 days ago
Score 4+-
On this topic - this is my other "pump me up" favourite.
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Manny StilesAAA-er
324 days ago
Score 4+-
That's Garbage!
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