After an appropriate mourning period for the Metros playoff loss to D.C. United, the First Row Idiots decided that it was time to convene a meeting. As expected with a group as passionate as the Idiots, these decisions are not made without certain conflicts. For example, one must tiptoe through the delicate minefield which is Jason's social calendar. Also, we wondered if Greg was still rotting in custody in the bowels of Giants Stadium. Eventually the kinks were worked out and the somewhat presumptuously monikered Metro Gala Event was held last Friday.

The Idiots arrived at an Irish bar located so far away from Ronen's office that he almost thought about putting his coat on in the 15 degree weather. All of the Idiots (including Greg!) showed up, with the notable exception of Joey, who was once again scuba diving in Mexico. Joey has spent so much time in Mexico that he may be signed by Chivas USA for next season. After a spirited debate, we decided to go with the "open bar and all of the horrible tasting appetizers you can eat in three hours" option. Proving to be a frugal bunch, we proceeded to drink up while the kitchen waited for the chickens to starve to death before making the wings and chicken fingers.

Much of the discussion focused on the Idiots plans to attend World Cup 2006. I suggested "Idiots Uber Alles" as our slogan, but that was quickly shot down. As our blood alcohol levels rose above the legal limit, our tight organization regarding our strategy to get tickets fell apart like the Metros defense in August. A free-for-all of ideas soon began, at which point Ronen, in his normal laid back style, began passing out Idiots resolutions like candy on Halloween. Among the resolutions proposed by the various Idiots:

The beer continued to flow, and we became more numbed to the inedible appetizers. Paul, John and Jason demonstrated questionable skills at the pool table, until they were kicked off by a couple of IRA rejects. As our three hours of open bar came to a close, Brian led the begging for one final free beer. After that request was turned down as soundly as an Amado Guevara appeal for a free kick, I departed. Although it was cold outside, I was warmed by the fact that the Idiots (and the Metros and the USMNT) would be stronger than ever in 2005.