Hey there guys and gals - are you ready to PARTY? Do you need a "pick-me-up" to make it to Christmas? Well then, the MHBA has the perfect opportunity for you on Friday December 12. It's almost the 20th annual Christmas Extravaganza Pot Luck Party. If I knew the first year, I could do the math thank you very much. Doors open a little early and the whole shindig get's rocking and rolling around 6:00. If you have never attended before, this message is for you. Bring a dish to share, a beverage to share, and a few top shelf beverages to trade. Bring a prize to give away for the door prizes. What's in it for me? Hey Buster, thanks for asking. Many years ago our club had a pile (actually a pile folks) of club glasses. We provided a free glass for each year of club membership. It was sort of our way of thanking folks for becoming and maintaining their membership dues. Two things happened: the pile of glasses disappeared and the club funds decreased. After fully recognizing our shortcoming and producing various charts and graphs (over a few beers), we determined the best way to improve our standings was to attract new members, decrease annual expenses, and increase our annual dues. Although it was met with an intense initial negative reaction, most of us were able to afford the additional $5 per year. Some of our friends also agreed and also joined. We also reduced the hall rental expenses for the last year and segregated our expenses. This way expenses like road trips were processed through the club account using segregated funds raised by the sub-group of members that enjoyed the trip. General purchases were processed against general club funds. And the whole thing occurred with volunteer effort. Our funds recovered to the point that we felt it was appropriate and timely to purchase a second group of glasses and we searched the internet for an appropriate fit. We had weird-oh's in California that wanted us dudes to send money. We also found folks in Indiana but they didn't have the right glass. We wanted a medium size beer glass that looked cool and settled on a Nonic (that means no nick ok) bulge with an acid etched logo. It really isn't etched but we think you will like these. So anyhow making a short story even longer, come to the extravaganza, check your membership status. If you are current and on the list, you get a free glass. If you are behind, you have the opportunity to get your free glass by simply paying up your membership. Extra glasses will be available! These make great Christmas gifts. $3.50 each or 3 for $10. You gotta see these glasses folks. So you have the story. Bring trinkets, bring beer, bring food and bring extension cords. Show up next Friday at CSPS. Get your ticket (one per member) and hold on to your number. You need to be present to win! Vote early and vote often for your favorite food items, beer items. Trade beers and have a really great time. Did I mention a brief membership speech before the "main event?" A few exciting opportunities for next year and all you need to do is to step forward. Rick O