I checked ACPI in the BIOS and I have the option of setting the ACPI suspend type to one of two things: S1 poweron-suspend and S3 suspend-to-ram. I have the latter, S3 suspend-to-ram, selected.
As for programs, this is a fresh install. I just went through the same motions as I always go through installing the very same drivers even and I noticed this before I even got around to installing a program or two.
As for the link, I appreciate it, but just glancing through it I think you and I have similar, but different problems. My computer doesn't hang up it all. After clicking shutdown, it saves and quickly goes to the "It is now safe to turn off your computer" and I have to turn it off on my own each time. I don't remember having to do that since elementary school in the 90s.
edit: And I forgot to mention that I don't think I have an "event viewer" is that a Vista feature? I'm running windows XP.