So, to keep up with tradition, I have something to add to this raffle as well.
I've started using PVC instead of wood. It is an exterior trim or molding product, which comes in various profiles but fortunately also comes in flat planks. It cuts on the lathe very easily an as you might guess, it also will dent when it hits sharp objects, but it won't check, warp, chip, or split like wood will, and it's weight is similar to that of plywood, nice and light, and UNIFORM, pretty easy to balance.
Anyway, this is the first top I made with it, it is a 4" diameter, 5-1/2" tall 232 gram top with a steel-reinforced HDPE tip. I've also changed the way I do the tips so that the steel shouldn't sink into the HDPE. The paint is the same paint that is on the front door of my house. As you can see in the picture it likes to collect marks form where it has been. Maybe you'd like to put a few marks on it yourself?