Opinion

Barbara France

Managing Editor

bfrance@lassennews.com

Dec. 7, 2010 — Contests are constantly being added to social networking sites such as Facebook, and many of them are simply silly such as what super hero are you? But recently one was circling that I actually noticed because I am an avid reader. I always have a book or magazine with me, and with the addition of e-readers to the market, I have one of those nearby so I am never out of reading material.

Not too long ago I mentioned a non-fiction, biographical list I want to read, but I really love novels. If the novel is well written and intriguing, I like when the writer chooses to write a series. The Facebook survey suggests the BBC (British Broadcasting Company) said today readers have only read six out 100 of the following books. Because of my college major and some of my high school coursework, I did reach the total of 39. Watching the movie doesn’t count. Some of the books I never heard of and some of the books, I should read again. I remember they were great the first time around, but I probably didn’t enjoy them as much as I could have since I had to write papers about them.

Cindi Tamietti

Graphic Artist

ctamietti@lassennews.com

Nov. 30, 2010 — On Oct. 15 a hired dog walker lost an airedale service dog named Lily in the Leavitt Lake area. Apparently the dog walker was running with the dog and let go of the leash. The dog walker then chased after Lily but couldn’t catch her. Gone.

Lily is 8 years old, 85 pounds and has a thyroid problem that requires medication. She has brown curly hair and black markings like a saddle over her back. Her owner, Janie Reece, has been beside herself trying to find her companion. She has put countless flyers out, run ads in the newspaper and called Swap Shop.

Barbara France

Managing Editor

bfrance@lassennews.com

I’m pessimistic by nature. The saying about seeing the glass half empty definitely pertains to me. Try as I might, I can’t seem to sustain unspeakable joy and a thankful heart for long without giving into worry and gloom.

“Gloom, despair, and agony on me
Deep, dark depression, excessive misery
If it weren't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all
Gloom, despair, and agony on me.”

I hope someone reading those words can remember where the lyrics came from. If not, shall I remind you? They are from a weekly skit on the popular 1960s and 1970s syndicated TV hit “Hee Haw.” My parents watched the show religiously and I never forgot the words to that song. It’s not my theme song, but at times I could seriously relate, which is a sad state of affairs for anyone.

However, the truth of the matter is that most Americans, and let me emphasize, most, including pessimistic me can find something to be thankful for. Sure, I think we can all think of someone who has it rough or downright bad. Some of the readers of this paper probably have it bad right now and I am not discounting that. But, even on my worst day, I can still find something to be thankful for. I am just too stubborn at times to want to admit it.

Barb France

Managing Editor

bfrance@lassennews.com

Nov. 16, 2010 — I was recently asked the question, “Why do I always have to be the one to pay for my mistakes?” I answered, “Who do you expect to pay for them?” The reply was the person did not have a job. I didn’t feel like arguing about something that was irrelevant. Some how the person I was conversing with would have to pay for the mistake made. Figuring out how will be the hardest thing this person has done in a while, but in the long run, I think it will be beneficial.