DEAR ABBY: I can top "Mystified in Fort Worth," who was shocked at an offering basket put out to defray the cost of an anniversary party.
Last year, a neighbor went door-to-door inviting people to a "Millennium New Year's Eve party." She and her husband were charging $230 per couple. She said that was a fair price to ask, since it was less than some of the fancy hotels were charging for a New Year's Eve party.
As it turned out, they had a dozen guests or so, some inexpensive entertainment and decor, and a catered meal. But nothing could top the look on those paying "guests'" faces when in walked a bride and groom -- and those poor souls realized they had been duped into paying for a wedding reception for the host's son! While it's the rudest thing I've ever heard of, it's so outrageous we're still laughing about it. I swear this is a true story. -- ALMOST SCAMMED IN SCOTTSDALE
DEAR SCAMMED: Your letter qualifies for Ripley's Believe It or Not. I applaud you for laughing at the outrageous situation.