kingbill,
I don't understand this "hired gun" concept. Who is it that you think hired Joe C and why? If he was "hired" why hasn't he returned since I understand (from what others post) his ban has been lifted?
As for Mr MJ, anyone who thinks he's "hired" or a reincarnation of Joe C is coo coo. The guy is an exceptional handicapper, one of the best on this board. If you paid attention to his posts on the sports boards you would know that. From what I understand Joe C didn't know the difference between a basketball and a football.
But Joe C was an intelligent poster here. Whether or not you agreed with his political and philosophical perspectives you must admit that. He could construct a sentence, a paragraph, and could spell. More importantly, he could carry a thought to it's conclusion. These are certainly attributes of a good debater.
Yes, I concurred with most of his postings. I miss the guy, paid or unpaid.