for chatting/mingling, a house is better than a restaurant. i offered my place, but if someone closer to I40 wants to hold it that's fine (i live a little ways off I40... in Rio Rancho). so, i vote for a BBQ at a house. make it a potluck and bring a dish to pass, just like our meetings. it would be cheaper than eating out anyway.
I second. Much more comfortable and we can be as loud as we want.