Alright ladies and gentlemen, your five contestants have been chosen. They've been contacted with instructions, and they have all week to compose something extra super exciting for you to read. One by one, their pieces will get posted next week and you'll have the opportunity to respond to their work. Then, next weekend I'll create a poll and we'll have a grand old vote, democracy-style.

I have given them the chance to back out, so the five dudes may not end up being five dudes, but hopefully you'll have a nice selection of work from which to choose. I didn't give them a specific topic- I want us all to see what these guys like to write about on their own terms. So get excited!! I know I am, as I just made apparent by the double exclamation points.

This is serious business, so think long and hard about what you want for the future of this blog. Gather your friends in two weekends so we have more than 12 people voting, ok? I've seen what you guys are capable of. Show up in force!