I got an email yesterday from Austin's own Bill Norris, who is representing this area at the Cocktail World Cup in New Zealand. Bill said that the organizers have been running the contestants ragged--the Cup has as much to do with extreme sports and adventures as it does about cocktails--but that the talent was incredible, with teams from the US, UK, Australia, and " some crazy folks from Japan who garnish like sushi chefs." I can't wait to hear more details when he returns (for the Tipsy Texan exclusive interview!)

Bill's team advanced to the final round which takes place today.