A few things:

SFMTA is inviting an exclusive number of Muni customers to take part of the TransLink trial group and help get the system up to snuff. "The TransLink system is a new, convenient way to pay for transit rides in the Bay Area," claims the SFMTA site.

Except that it is not new -- it's been around for nearly 20 years. Sadly, for exactly zero of those years has it been a convenient way to pay for transit rides. Also, they've been in a trial phase for well over a year now, but we're splitting hairs here.

But the almost exciting news is this: SFist has been invited to Wednesday's SFMTA kick off party for the Muni trial of TransLink. (Who how what in the hell?!) And so have you! In addition to the promise of free hors d'oeuvres, you can learn how to get a free TransLink card and schmooze with public transit overlords. And more!

It happens tomorrow, Wednesday, 5 p.m.-7 p.m. at the SFMTA headquarters, One South Van Ness (the atrium, 2nd floor). RSVP to TransLinkRSVP[at]SFMTA[dot]com.

Ideally, we'd send SFist Matt Baume over with an armed escort, but even bodyguards packing heat might not be protective enough.