Thomas Jefferson said in 1809, "Nature intended me for the tranquil pursuits of science by rendering them my supreme delight," I heartily agree. The accumulation of knowledge is a wonderful thing. In my life I have enjoyed an interest in science and a curiosity about nature. For me it is profoundly gratifying to look at images of galaxies some 14 billion light years away and be able to perceive and understand how vastly large and complex the cosmos is. It is also gratifying to have some understanding of the infinitely small, and how matter works. All of the other sciences, from geology to biology are equally fascinating in their own way.

As Carl Sagan put it, "we are a way for the cosmos to know itself." With just a little thinking and curiosity, we can, in a conscious way, look around and perceive the universe the way it is. Wondering, asking questions, and seeking answers is very satisfying to me.

Darwin Day with Humanists of Utah is fast approaching (February 12), and things are coming together. The members of the Darwin Day Committee and I are quite excited about our first annual event. As you can see from the schedule in this issue, we have planned what will be an enjoyable and enlightening day.

I believe that this event will accomplish a number of objectives. For our chapter, it is a way for us to get out and be more "in the public" to advocate for humanism. We hope it will not only attract interested people in general, but young people in particular to humanism and the world of freethinkers (one reason the event will be held at the University of Utah.) The world desperately needs to promote science and by disseminating factual, scientific information we can assist in this important endeavor.

These things, along with the enjoyment of getting together, meeting new freethinkers (we hope!) and celebrating Charles Darwin's birthday and his contributions to science (and the celebration of science in general) will make for a great day. Please come and join us-I don't think you will be disappointed.

I am having one problem with Darwin Day, though. We have purchased a variety of "Evolve Fish" merchandise to sell (magnets, stickers, T-shirts, caps and much more-about 35 different items) and I want one of each. I'll just have to cool it for now so that others can have a chance to shop, although you might see me in a new T-shirt. And I will see you on February 12.

--Robert Lane
President, HoU