This Week's Anniversaries of Note

Photo: Channel Tunnel Loading/Unloading Platforms outside Folkestone, Kent. Folkestone & Cheriton are in the background. (Photo by Stephen Dawson/Wikimedia, CC-BY-SA.)

This week marks three anniversaries of note. Monday was the 30th anniversary of Margaret Thatcher becoming prime minister of the United Kingdom (and I can't get this well-prepared slideshow from the BBC out of my head – catchy soundtrack!) And today (well, yesterday now in Folkestone) marks the 15th anniversary of the opening of the Channel Tunnel between Coquelles, France and Folkestone, England. Contrary to popular belief, the chunnel's entrance is not in Dover, which is five miles northeast of Folkestone, nor Calais, also five miles northeast of Coquelles. (AP story on the anniversary)

Since its opening in 1994, the Chunnel has provided a ground link between Great Britain and Continental Europe, enhancing the arguments for and against greater integration into the European Union. Also, it's become a funnel for illegal immigrants to attempt entry into the UK. Upon my relocation to the area directly impacted by the Chunnel, expect a lot of commentary & anecdotes revolving around the Channel Tunnel.

Also, be sure to circle Friday on your calendars, as that will be Harry Truman's 125th birthday. Celebrations are planned in Lamar (his birthplace) and Independence, as well as a party of one on the wrong side of 36°30'.