Current events aren't really the stuff of banter in the UK at least. It's good to have something pleasant to talk about.

I vote we continue to discuss pen's love life for a bit longer. All those in favour say 'Aye'.

Well, we could always talk about the weather instead. *doesn't*

[flerdle] It is a-raining-not in Brussels.

We could talk about Wimbledon. I will start the ball rolling by saying that is a pleasant SW London suburb, and in places rather expensive. The common is a useful place for a wee on the way home in the car though you may have to watch your back. The local football club won the FA Cup in 1988, to the delight of many.