Welcome to this week’s Reno News & Review.
OK, so quick story. A couple of years ago, Dec. 9, 2010, we had this homeless guy living on our back porch, here at the world headquarters of the Reno News & Review. His name was Neal C. Kirk, and I interviewed him for our 15 Minutes feature, www.newsreview.com/reno/home-on-the-street/content?oid=1887330.
Anyway, fast forward to a week or two ago. I got a call from Neal’s sister-in-law. Through the miracle of the internet, some member of his family looked up his name, and there he was in all his glory, all bearded and toothless, but undeniably himself. His family hasn’t seen him in about 56 years, and they’d like to get in touch with him. His family includes his son, whom he has never met. Even his brother is still kicking. They all are, and since Neal was born on Dec. 21, 1931, that’s sort of surprising because Neal hasn’t lived the easiest life.
I haven’t seen the guy in a year and a half or so. I know he had a visit up to Parr Boulevard on May 19, 2011, but that’s where the trail gets cold for me. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if he headed somewhere else, like Las Vegas, Portland or maybe Sacramento. I’ve got my feelers out, but hey, I’m the editor of a freaking newspaper—let’s do some broadcast journalism.
And I know Neal would have my hide for this, but I also called the police, and they’re looking, too. Anyway, if you’ve seen Neal since May 19, 2011, please give me a call at 324-4440 ext. 3525. You can call anytime, but I’d really like to hear from you on this one. Putting Neal and his family back together might bring a winter thaw, if you know what I mean.