I have to take the opportunity to send a shout out and a great big thank you to Fat Head's Brewery in North Olmsted, OH for supporting the Marines in this area and, by extension, U.S. Marines everywhere.

The local reserve unit (3rd Bn. 25th Marine Regiment) will be deploying to Afghanistan in May. As many of you know, 11/10 is the Marine Corps Birthday. This year, the Birthday Ball (a black tie even which I'll be attending in full Highland attire) will be held on 11/14 and we (the local chapter of the Marine Corps League) will be joining the Marines of 3/25 for the festivities.

The hotel where we are holding the ball has graciously agreed to give us a hospitality suite and is allowing us to bring our own alcohol for the Marines.

Fat Head's brewery opened this year in April and I've become a regular there. I approached the general manager about acquiring some of their fine product for the Marines and before I was more than 5 sentences into explaining what the League is and the significance of the Ball, he enthusiastically agreed to donate (yes, as in free beer) a keg of their brew for the Marines enjoyment.

If you live in or are passing through the area, please consider dropping in and sampling their wares. I can't think of a better way to thank them. Drop me a line if you'll be around. I'll be more than happy to run up and join you for a kilted pint there.