Looks like McCain's handlers took him aside and said "skipping the debate would be a bad thing".  I guess my idea of sending in the VP's didn't get any traction.  Oh well...

It will be interesting to see if the guys actually answer questions:

Moderator:  What's the value of the US Debt?

Candidate:  I think the weather in Duluth is chilly.

Other Candidate:   But think of the children!

I remember debate in college.  They docked you if you didn't stay on task.

We shall see...