There are so many things we take for granted ... like coal, gas and electricity heating our houses. We forget the people who work hard and dangerously to bring those things into our homes. The last few weeks have brought them to our attention when 29 miners in West Virginia died in an explosion, or when several miners in China were drowned recently. That's been followed by an earthquake there that has, no doubt, killed many more people.
With additional major quakes around the world, and a volcano erupting in Iceland, it makes you realize how precious life is (the Polish president and his wife and many others died in a recent plane crash), and how so many people work to keep our lives going relatively smoothly.
While we don't think this is the beginning of Armageddon, we do think you should take some time to appreciate what you do have, and thank the people who seem to disappear into the background. Thank our soldiers, garbage men, newspaper delivery people, clerks at the grocery store, nurses, etc. ... anyone without whom you would suffer if they were gone. We appreciate you all.
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Sister Marie McGloin celebrated the 52nd anniversary of taking her vows as a nun last Friday. Speaking of people who contribute to our community, she's definitely one of them. It's also been a year since "Ma" Tate died (she loved to see her name in the paper), and Carolyn misses her mom. Happy birthday to Kylie Schmid and Vicky Ellis ... may this be a great year for both of you.
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If you've seen the recent Denny's TV commercial, the guy is extolling the value of the meals there (and they are good) but he says, "I'm not no math whiz..." Apparently, he ain't no English whiz, either. Arrrrrrrgh.
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The Brewery Arts Center is currently presenting "The Laramie Project," the story of Matthew Shepard, who was so brutally killed in 1998 in Wyoming because he was gay. While it's a sad, sad story, it is also filled with hope and healing, and will be presented with a multimedia approach - acting, slides, and movies (on four screens). Co-sponsored by PFLAG, it is a wonderfully poignant story of a young man who deserved life. It will be at 7:30 p.m. April 23, 24, 30 and May 1 at the BAC (883-1976 for details and information).
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It is also not too late to see Wild Horse Theater's "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" at the Children's Museum (although it's NOT a children's show; is rated PG-13). The Tony- winning musical shows April 23 and 24 at 8 p.m., and is a good bet if you like to laugh. Call 887-0438 for tickets.
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The Bark, Wine & Dine fundraiser for Parks 4 Paws will be held on May 1, 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Fuji Park events building. The $25 per person cost will get you dancing to the Craig Fletcher band and a silent auction. Tacos and drinks will be available. This will benefit the new dog park out there, and you'll be helping "man's best friend," too. Call Ilona (721-4931) or Joyce (220-3154) for tickets and details.
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Ian Airlie sent us this from the Internet: "Two young men from Glasgow, Archie and Jock, were sitting in a pub discussing Jock's forthcoming marriage. 'Ach, it's all going like magic,' says Jock. 'I've got everything organized already ... the flowers, the church, the reception, the rings, the minister, ma stag night.' Archie nodded approvingly. 'Man, I've even bought a kilt to be married in,' continues Jock. 'A kilt?' exclaims Archie. 'That's great...you'll look pure smart in that. And what's the tartan?' 'Och,' says Jock, 'I'd imagine she'll be in white.'"
Tch, tch, tch ... have a great week.
• Carolyn Tate and Maizie Harris Jesse are longtime Carson City residents. They can be reached at editor@nevadaappeal.com.