http://civ4players.proboards44.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&thread=1135360446 said:
Since my first post, and before reading these responses, I indeed DID call the Take2 support number (located in England) and they say the issues aren't with the patch, but are with the servers.
"Terribly overloaded and extra'ordinarily busy" was his quote (and apology).
he also said that, "they are working on getting more servers available in the next few hours and to please be patient with them."
So far, I think I'll "try" and trust his word as he asked, lol.