Bowling for bonuses and booby traps

Today, the first of two required holiday bowling parties is being held for a segment of the IT division of my company. Since someone has to be available to work on each production system in the event of an outage the division is split in two with half the group going on one Friday and the other half the following. Managers go to both, and attendance is mandatory. Management rents a bunch of lanes at a local bowling alley and give us two drink tickets per person. People generally drink, bowl a couple games, have a white elephant gift exchange, and call it a day around 5ish. Attendance is mandatory, and I think that casts a shadow over the proceedings. I enjoy getting out of work early. I enjoy bullshitting with co-workers, but when I'm told I must it feels a little strained. Last year I went through my two drink tickets before I had bowled my fifth frame... on a team with my boss who doesn't drink all that much. And the bar was most assuredly taking my money.

I'm attending next week as I'm oncall this week, and I'm actually looking forward to it. Last year I got drunk, played pool with a couple guys - one of whom asked me out even though I thought I was pretty clear I wasn't interested - and drove home drunkish during rush hour traffic on a Friday during the holidays on the North side. 'Tis the season, Officer Friendly! This year I'm not drinking so I think it will be pretty easy to maintain focus while I'm in the presence of the higher ups. Last year it was a little touch and go. Also I actually know people so I won't be spending a lot of time on the outside looking in. At least that's the plan.

I'd say I get along well with my co-workers, but we don't make plans together or anything. There was a time when I went out drinking with the guys some Fridays until everyone went home for dinner, but that time is gone. It's for the best. Once a co-worker lobbied heavily to attend the lingerie show at a nearby bar and I actually felt my resolve slipping. I have a simple personal rule: I shall engage in no salacious activities with co-workers even if we are eyeing the same candy. The lines blur too quickly. Furthermore, I've been to titty bars where I was pulled into the show against my will. Quite unexpectedly a stripper pulled my shirt up over my head. Believe me, if I had known that was a part of the deal I would have worn a different bra. And furthermore I didn't get a cut of the tips. Shenanigans, O'Flannigan!