Friday, January 1, 2010

January 1, 2010

It was a good night for learning. But an even better night for eating caramel apple pie.

Eric kicked off the night once again. He discussed an organization called Clean Needles Now, and the impact dirty needles have, not only on drug users, but on the community as a whole. I have to admit, it took me a while before I realized that when he talked about "CNN" and what they intended to do for users, he wasn't talking about a news network. Am I the only one? Probably. We were given just a taste of what organizations like this offer, but that sample was enough to get me hooked on more aggressive research on the topic. My elaborate metaphor for drug use is falling flat, so I'm moving on.

Deanne shared her report next, and offered her knowledge of Arts and Crafts Architecture and Prairie style design. I feel way smarter now, knowing that when someone talks about an Arts and Craft house, they aren't talking about something made of popsicle sticks. I've decided my next house is going to be a bungalow, because they are adorable. Deanne also shared some places of interest in the valley that we can visit to get a better look at the style she talked about. One of the coolest things about Report Night is that one person's passion becomes contagious. I know I'm not the only one hoping Deanne becomes a regular attendee.

Sarah gave us a little background on the island of Guernsey, in the English Channels. It was the kind of report that makes you wish we took field trips. We learned a little about the German occupation, and even more about the Guernsey cow, which we learned makes spectacular milk. Eric's dad Bill offered a testimonial to the fact. I think we need to find us a Guernsey cow. We also all need to just go with the obvious choice, and call ourselves The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society already.

Jack then provided a report on the history and development of the game of Tetris. If you played the game in the 80's, at all, you may be called in for questioning if we have another Red Scare. Just so you know. It was a great report, because I don't think I'm the only one who now feels justified in the time spent with The Blocks. I should also mention, Jack's the one who brought the pie.

I closed the night with my report on Steve Wynn. I forgot to mention that I titled my report, "For The Wynn: The Steve Wynn Story, Starring Steve Wynn" alternate title, "At Least It's Not A Picasso." I'm pretty excited about my visual aid, which was drawn with crayola markers about five minutes before the night began. I'm thinking of going into Art Reproduction for profit.

We had a delicious penne pasta, salad, and garlic bread this evening, and I think turning report night into a full on potluck dinner was the best decision we made all year. (New Year's humor).

Looking forward to February 5.