Yesterday I went out and waited in line for the Cities 97 sampler.  It was pretty much the same as I remembered.  Cold, boring and cold.  This year I brought my ipod so I wasn't as bored as last year.  I showed up at 7 am for the 8 am release.  This year I was much farther from the door, but still easily got my two copies.  There were other little perks this year that made it well worth my time.  Here are some pictures from the morning.

Longer line this year at 7am.  Last year I was near the pine tree closest to the door.

Here's the line behind me at 745 am, wrapping around on the street.  Last year it was only at the edge of the parking lot.

Caribou came around and gave out free coffee.  Only difference was the mode of transportation... Last year Caribou Camper, this year pickup truck.

Being so cold, the coffee was exactly what I needed.

Caribou also gave out coupons and a granola bar.  Then Edina Grill came around and gave out lil breakfast burritos with a $10 coupon.  Sweet.

Here is how it all worked out... I paid $60 for the two copies.  Two co-workers paid me $10 each to rip it into iTunes.  I sold the extra copy on ebay for $60.    So for standing in the cold for 1 hour I made $20, have the CD, plus the coupons, and I have another friend who wants a copy and is going to make me a batch of cookies.  Score!