I've circumvented the issue by specifying a different NTP site.
I can't believe it would be that consistent from us.pool.ntp.org, since different servers are involved. However, it certainly could be something in the DNS response from the COX servers assigned to me.
No offense taken...I did a stint in development for a time so I'm aware of "priorities". I'm just glad it can be circumvented easily.
Thanks for the help in isolating it!