Archive for November, 2010

Students take up fictional sport

Thursday, November 11th, 2010

HarryPotter1

For anyone who was mesmerized by the game of quidditch in the Harry Potter series, now you can see a match in real-life. The fourth annual Quidditch World Cup is this weekend in New York City, and according to a NPR news story,  more than 60 different high school and college teams will participate.

I only just heard of this muggle madness yesterday while listening to a segment on NPR’s “All Things Considered,” “A Muggle’s Dream: Quidditch As a NCAA Sport.”

Several colleges have fielded teams, and it sounds like the game is played much like it is in the book. The obvious difference is that the muggle version is played on the ground, while Potter and his teammates take to the air.

Check out the above link for all the details.

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Images of America: Bridgeport

Tuesday, November 9th, 2010

ImagesofAmerica

The Bridgeport Historical Society is declaring Nov. 11, 2010, Ken Sprecher Day. Sprecher wrote “Bridgeport,” a book filled with more than 200 vintage images of the town and anecdotes about its history.

Sprecher grew up visiting his grandparents in Bridgeport, and after retiring from law enforcement, he and his wife, Cheryle, moved here. He’s been active in the historical society, and he will be honored with a reception 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the Bridgeport Heritage Museum, 812B Halsell St.

“Bridgeport” is part of Arcadia Publishing’s Images of America series, and it was released Sept. 27. Looking at the book is like turning the pages of a family album. Readers will likely see locations and last names that are familiar, and Sprecher says in the acknowledgements that he hopes the book will encourage others to collect their photos and tell the stories associated with them.

Profits from the sale of the book are being donated to the operation of the Bridgeport Heritage Museum. It can be purchased at the museum, the Bridgeport Visitors Center and at online retailers, like Barnes and Noble.

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Local literary events

Monday, November 8th, 2010

There are several events in Wise County and the Metroplex this week for the literary-minded. If you plan to go to any of these events, let me know!

DECATUR

A free resume workshop is 1 to 3 p.m. tomorrow at the library. Call (940) 627-5512 to register.

The library’s book club meets at 11:45 a.m. Thursday. The group will be discussing “The Professor and the Madman,” by Simon Winchester.

RHOME

The library is having an open house 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at its new location, 265 BC. The library has been in operation 50 years and is the oldest in the county.

DALLAS

Former President George W. Bush will be signing his new book, “Decision Points,” at 8:30 a.m. tomorrow at Borders at Preston Road and Royal Lane, 10720 Preston Road. Customers are asked to arrive early because everyone will be required to go through a security checkpoint. Leave all bags, coats and cameras in the car. Wristbands will be given out on a first-come, first-serve basis when the store opens the day of the event. Call the store at (214) 263-1977 for details.

Lori Ann Stephens will read excerpts, discuss and sign her book, “Song of the Orange Moons” 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the SMU Barnes & Noble Bookstore, 3060 Mockingbird Lane.

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A scary good time

Monday, November 1st, 2010

The Decatur Public Library hosted Halloween parties for kids of all ages last week. Below are a few photos from the events. Thanks for sharing, Cecilia!

Merrick and Kellen

Library volunteer Sam Armitage gives treats to Kellen and Merrick Roberts.

Group 1

Little fairies, witches, ghosts and goblins enjoyed the children’s Halloween party at the library.

Group2

This scary bunch had a good time at the Paranormal Activities party.


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