I opened up with a report on the Olympic Mascots. It was, I feel, one of my favorites so far, because of how much I learned while preparing. I also feel like we are all going to be in on the joke when it comes to inevitable pop culture references to the Olympic mascots in years to come. And now I know what Pedobear is.
Eric did our first investigative report. It was like John Stossel with a beard. He prepared his report on the pronunciation of a local road, Germann. I feel a Part 2 coming. I think Sarah was most impressed that he cold-called as part of the investigative process. I'm going to have to agree with her.
Kristin gave a report on water aerobics that I only heard half of, because Evan got stuck in a closet and Harrison needed a diaper change. Eric said it was an informative report on how water aerobics is not just for old ladies. I did hear her extend an invitation to join her the next time she goes, and I think I feel another field trip coming on. (Genuinely, Kristin, I'm interested. I hate exercise, but I'm sold.)
Bill went next. Incidentally, Bill was celebrating a birthday that night, which meant trifle for dessert, which was a BIG hit. It seemed appropriate that he would give his report on aging gracefully. Some highlights for me were his points about breathing and the questions we can be asking ourselves at any age. I don't think I was the only one moved by it. Seriously, if you're not coming to report night, I'm baffled.
Then Jared followed with a last-minute report that felt anything but. Jared is in pool maintenance, and provided us with just a small part of what his job entails. I was especially pleased with the question and answer portion of his report. It was everything I love about doing this, because I had no idea I would be even remotely interested in pool maintenance, but it was fascinating. Especially when he got into dead birds and green hair.
Sarah offered her report on PT Cruisers. I don't think it was meant to be as hilarious as it was, but when you're talking about PT Cruiser clubs and you bring in pictures of THESKULL, I don't know how she could have avoided the funny. Report Night isn't a contest, but if it were, Sarah would win every time for visual aids.
Jack talked about Lafayette (the man, not the city, although he did touch on that too), and the relationship America has had with the French. I had a joke in my head about how they should have called them 'Lafayette Fries' but it was really dumb. Sorry for even thinking it. Biographies are always a hit, and this was no exception.
Deanne closed out the night with a statistic on Insurance companies that sparked a healthy (*rimshot*) debate on healthcare. It was a great way to end the night, offering everyone a chance to weigh in on the issue, including Heather, a report night newbie who also happens to be an RN with an interesting perspective on the issue.
We also ate deli sandwiches, and despite the avocados, it was all so delicious. I was worried that March would be too close to February's Report Night, but I'm going to say: I don't think it'll come soon enough. We'll see you on the 5th.
