No problem, thanks for the compliment. Yea, I do not like the idea of
taping into block either. I think you would be OK if there isn't water
present. I do not think you will lose structural integrity just because
of a few holes.

As far as electrical - Around here, IIRC, code is an outlet every 6' or
so along a wall. The idea is to minimize extension cords. Studs make
this easy to do. If you keep them back away from the wall 1/2" then you
can even avoid drilling holes (Probably not code though).

-B