LITTLE SYMPATHY

Before starting with today's subject matter, I would like to call your attention to our "title the photo" contest announced in the January 28 posting.
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Linden really enjoys his regularly held Thursday morning breakfast meeting. It is a mixture of idle chatter, issue discussion, and religious moments, which include prayer. At today's meeting, Chuck, Jack and Linden were present: Bill and Paul were absent. More apprehension than discussion was evident in regard to our normal political comments.
In my (Linden's) monents on the floor I made some subdued references to facing a deadline in regard to filing my State sales tax report - this drew absolutely no sympathy. And, secondly, I mentioned having a badly bruised sore spot on my right leg - which came from running into the corner of a table which occupies the only available spot between my living area and the kitchen. Instead of the well deserved sympathy which would have been fitting to express, I heard, "maybe you could fasten a sponge over the bruise and that way it wouldn't hurt so bad when you next run into the table" and "has it ever occurred to you to move the table?" These are my Christian brothers: Pray for them.
I had just barely returned home when my good friend, Joyce, called from South Florida - she didn't say but I really believe that the primary reason for the call was to make me aware of the temperature differential between Central Indiana and South Florida: It is considerable. It may have been in this conversation that I became aware that, for the 296th consecutive month, none of my books had been mentioned by a celebrity. This time, it was Oprah who ignored me. I suppose it is fair, I don't watch her show.
Linden would have preferred to talk a little about politics today. But, after the Florida primary, in now appears the end result will be a contest between the Empress of Evil and The Champion of Courseness, I just am not in the mood to talk about it. Maybe tomorrow.
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
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LINDEN’S BOOKS

“BOUT FIRTEEN COUNTRY CHILDERN RIMES” is a group of 20 poems written in a style reminiscent of James Whitcomb Riley and 20 accompanying illustrations. This book is little more expensive than a greeting card. Since both the author and the illustrator are now deceased, use Linden Swift as the author name when inquiring online.

“OUTSTANDING NATIONAL LEAGUE BASEBALL PITCHERS OF THE LAST 42 YEARS” Published in 1987, this book could be of interest to older baseball fans. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

New Jersey 1 Camden and Gloucester Counties
New Jersey 10 Essex, Hudson and Orion Counties

New York 5 Queens and Nassau Counties
New York 6 Queens
New York 9 Brooklyn and Queens
New York 22 Delaware and seven other Counties (1-24-08 WE HAVE A CANDIDATE)

North Carolina 1 Roanoke Rapids, Rocky Mount and other areas

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.
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WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
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Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

IMPORTANT MATTERS

Before starting with today's subject matter, I would like to call your attention to our "title the photo" contest announced in the January 28 posting.
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Linden had a few minutes to spare before driving to the elementary school where he was scheduled to serve as a "study buddy." Since it was freezing cold outside, he went out to start the car, using the keys that had an inoperative remote door lock/unlock jobby attached, he didn't need the keys at all: All four doors were frozen shut. He went back in, dropped the set of keys that had auto and other keys on it and it came apart on the floor. He filled the teakettle with water, went out and poured the water over the frozen doors until he was able to open one and not too long after started (late) to the school.
Later, Linden went to the jewelry department of Wal-Mart to have a battery put in the inoperative door opener and the nice lady there put what had been his good door unlock thingy back together and told him that the screw that held it together was missing. She put tape on it to hold it together and, after another stop or two, Linden was back home.
Picture an old man with creaking joints, very bad eyesight and one knee that can be somewhat painful in those rare instances when he is on the floor on his hands and knees. He, in pain, searches diligently but the missing screw refuses to be found. You think the retirement years are easy? Get real, sonny!!
Oh, yes - there was a matter of some importance that occurred in Florida yesterday. John McCain won the Republican primary election there. As you know, much to Linden's disappointment, Fred Thompson is no longer actively seeking the Presidency. Yet, his vote total surpassed that of democrats Dodd, Gravel and Kucinich combined.
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
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BUY ME?

“BIBLE BASED PUZZLES” is a group of 78 cryptograms, one or more from each Book of the Bible, with the answers provided at the end of the book. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha
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HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

Illinois 12 East St. Louis – One Found?

Massachusetts 1 Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire and other Counties
Massachusetts 2 Springfield area
Massachusetts 3 Bristol area – One Found?
Massachusetts 4 Bristol area – One Found?
Massachusetts 5 Essex, Middlesex and Worcester Counties
Massachusetts 7 Middlesex and Suffolk Counties
Massachusetts 8 Middlesex and Suffolk Counties

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.
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WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
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Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

STATE OF THE UNION

Before starting with today's subject matter, I would like to call your attention to our "title the photo" contest announced in yesterday's posting.
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Linden believes that President Bush appeared very presidential in his report last night. In spite of serious disagreements with several approaches he has taken, there has never been a doubt about his honesty, sincerity, decency or love of Country. His accomplishments overshadow his shortcomings.
What I found most striking about the speech and the surrounding events was the dour appearance of the democrats attending. They all sat on their hands when the following items were presented:
Make tax relief permanent.
Will veto a tax increase.
Earmark curtailment.
Consumer choice not Government control of health care.
Up or down votes on appointments.
Addressing entitlement problems.
Immigration control.
Fully funding our troops.
The time to act to safeguard intelligence is now.

The speech was a good one but what made me most proud to be a Republican was the attitude of the democrats. Rarely have I seen those I found to appear less impressive than Pelosi, Rangel, Kennedy, Obama, Clinton and Reid. You supporters of this group and this party - what are you thinking? Or perhaps better, are you THINKING?

In closing, Linden thought he heard a "newscaster" refer to Bush's "tax cuts for the rich." Linden is not rich; Linden received a very welcome tax cut. "Newscaster?"
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
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LINDEN’S BOOKS

“LETTERS TO GOD” is a group of over 50 individual prayer requests made to God. The answer, if known, to the individual prayers is also shown. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha
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HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

California 20 Fresno area – One Found?
California 31 Los Angeles County
California 33 Los Angeles County – One Found?

Georgia 5 Atlanta area

Maryland 5 Calvert, Charles & St. Mary’s Counties – Three Found?
Maryland 7 Baltimore & adjacent Counties – Two Found?

Michigan 13 Wayne County area
Michigan 15 Detroit area

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.
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WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

CONTEST #1

If this were a strictly political Blog, Linden's posting today would address the South Carolina democrat results. Since he thinks that the election of any of these candidates would be a disaster for America, he will select another subject. How about a caption Linden's photo contest? At a recent Thursday morning meeting, Linden told Bill and Chuck (Jack and Paul were absent) about his idea for a contest. They pooh-poohed his idea and suggested the photo caption contest. They won. So, caption the picture of the old man shown in the picture on the upper right of this page. The best image of this picture is at our 10-23-07 posting.
Rules and limitations follow.
Five words maximum caption length.
Send your entry to LWDcomment@aol.com
No objectional language permitted.
One entry per person.
Judges decision final.
First entry determines duplicate entry winner.
Prize (inexpensive) not yet determined.
Contest ends 2-26-08.
Additional rules may be added.
Contest may be canceled.
Winner will be notified by email.
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
-----
LINDEN’S BOOKS

“AN OLD MAN ON THE ST. JAMES WAY” recounts the pilgrimage across Northern Spain by this 75-year-old man. Author Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha
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HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts.

Alabama 5 Huntsville – One Found?
Alabama 7 Birmingham

Florida 2 Tallahassee – One Found?
Florida 3 Jacksonville
Florida 17 North Miami
Florida 19 Boca Raton
Florida 20 Pembroke Pines
Florida 23 Fort Lauderdale – One Found?

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste Considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.
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WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

COLD & CRANKY

It was a perfect example of reverse global warming before dawn this morning as Linden headed for Men's Prayer Breakfast at his church. It was COLD. Having had a water line freeze recently on another night when the temperature had been COLD, he tends to not sleep well on such nights: thus the allusion to CRANKY in the title.
Having titled yesterday's posting "GOOD DAY" because of being pleased that Republicans had candidates in some of the Congressional Districts where they had no candidate in the last election. Now CRANKY fits because of having more recently scanned filings in all congressional Districts.
It is early in the process but you should know and be concerned that now 115 Districts scattered throughout 31 States no Republican has yet filed in a District where a democrat has filed. If you think about that just a bit, you may become CRANKY too.
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
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BUY ME?

“MIND OVER FATTER” written in 1983 as a contrast to a Jane Fonda book. She had a better publisher so sales languished. It, written in calligraphy, was the first to present the concept of vicarious exercise. “An approach to weight control and physical conditioning which provides solace for the sedentary – includes recipes and statistical political commentary.”

Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha
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HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

Pennsylvania 1 Philadelphia area
Pennsylvania 14 Pittsburgh area

Rhode Island 2 Warwick area

Texas 9 Houston area
Texas 16 El Paso
Texas 20 San Antonio
Texas 28 Laredo

Virginia 3 Newport News area

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.
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WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

GOOD DAY

Probably the primary reason Linden started this Blogging effort almost three months ago was to call attention to those Congressional Districts which had not fielded a Republican candidate in 2006. Yesterday, he just barely started an effort to increase his readership (and thereby attention to the problem noted above) when (like a light coming on) he realized that he should first check for any Republicans filing in the affected (or infected) Districts. He is very happy to report that there have been some.

Linden's "HELP WANTED" posting of three months ago mentioned starting salary of about $170,000.00, frequent raises, great benefits, working hours, support staff and retirement benefits. He also mentioned the qualifications his ideal candidate would possess. He also mentioned the mediocre rating The Council for Citizens Against Government Waste and The National Taxpayers Union had awarded the democrat officeholders.

Linden is happy to report that Now there is at least one Republican candidate in Alabama 5; California 20 & 33; Florida 2 & 23; Illinois 12; Maryland 5 & 7;Massachusetts 3 & 4; New York 22: and Texas 9. This means that the original 39 Districts Of Concern have been reduced to 27. This is truly a good day. Rest assured, Linden will now check the lists of candidate filings more frequently.
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
-----
BUY ME?

“BOUT FIRTEEN COUNTRY CHILDERN RIMES” is a group of 20 poems written in a style reminiscent of James Whitcomb Riley and 20 accompanying illustrations. This book is little more expensive than a greeting card. Since both the author and the illustrator are now deceased, use Linden Swift as the author name when inquiring online.

“OUTSTANDING NATIONAL LEAGUE BASEBALL PITCHERS OF THE LAST 42 YEARS” Published in 1987, this book could be of interest to older baseball fans. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha


HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

New Jersey 1 Camden and Gloucester Counties
New Jersey 10 Essex, Hudson and Orion Counties

New York 5 Queens and Nassau Counties
New York 6 Queens
New York 9 Brooklyn and Queens
New York 22 Delaware and seven other Counties (1-24-08 WE HAVE A CANDIDATE)

North Carolina 1 Roanoke Rapids, Rocky Mount and other areas

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

DISASTER?

DISASTER! This is the first word that came to Linden's mind when he heard the unwelcome news that Fred Thompson was abandoning his campaign for the Presidency.
Because the problems associated with the WAR (which regardless of your hopes will not end until there is a winner,) IMMIGRATION (the attack on the U. S. rule of law, which to this point has been addressed with a wink and a nod,) UNRESTRAINED GOVERNMENT SPENDING (which to this point has not been addressed at all,) UNFUNDED GOVERNMENT LIABILITIES (President Bush made a much derided feeble effort to address this looming financial catastrophe,) and many other smaller problems, could, in Linden's eyes, be best addressed by Fred Thompson as President. Linden views Fred's decision as a potential DISASTER for America.
Now that Linden's top two choices (Thompson and Duncan Hunter) are no longer candidates, his third choice, Mitt Romney is now his hope. It would be interesting to hear the thoughts (if any) of a democrat in regard to how their preferred candidate would address the four serious problems mentioned above. Linden is apprehensive about the future of his beloved, once great, country. Visualize wartime defeat; visualize your country occupied by an invader who intends to kill YOU.
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
-----
BUY ME?

“BIBLE BASED PUZZLES” is a group of 78 cryptograms, one or more from each Book of the Bible, with the answers provided at the end of the book. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha
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HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

Illinois 12 East St. Louis

Massachusetts 1 Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire and other Counties
Massachusetts 2 Springfield area
Massachusetts 3 Bristol and three other Counties
Massachusetts 4 Bristol and three other Counties
Massachusetts 5 Essex, Middlesex and Worcester Counties
Massachusetts 7 Middlesex and Suffolk Counties
Massachusetts 8 Middlesex and Suffolk Counties

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?
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Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

A GIFTED WRITER

Linden thinks that he would like to be such a writer. Some 25 years ago, in an effort to provide amusement for himself (not necessairily for those who care most about him,) in his future retirement years, he wrote and published his first book. Five more books have followed and about three months ago, posting this blog became a reality. During all this time, the word "masterpiece" has never been associated with his name. Linden blames his parents. But, since his Dad has been gone for over 40 years and his Mother close to 60 years, it is probably too late for them to further his education.
Linden has never been much of a hero worshipper. Of course, there has always been his Dad; Jack Elam, the actor in Westerns came along in 1953 and Ronald Reagan joined the group in about 1975. There have been no inductees since Reagan. Now, there is another, in the gifted writer category, who is becoming most worthy of consideration.
Kyle-Anne Shiver (Linden has previously mentioned her) contributed "War? What War?" to American Thinker January 21. It calls attention to the media's selective coverage (or non-coverage) of current events. Within the article are links to her "Living Room Warriors" of 4-3-07 and "Anti-War Protestors" of 8-25-07 - both great products of an active mind. Here, I may as well also recommend "Saving the Trees and Killing the Children" which was posted today.
Linden knew his Dad quite well, had one conversation with Ronald Reagan and never met Jack Elam. Since he will probably never meet Kyle-Anne, it is fortunate that it has already been estalished that meeting in person is not a requirement for achieving hero status in his mind.
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
-----
BUY ME?

“LETTERS TO GOD” is a group of over 50 individual prayer requests made to God. The answer, if known, to the individual prayers is also shown. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha
-----

HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

California 20 Fresno general area
California 31 Part of Los Angeles County
California 33 Part of Los Angeles County

Georgia 5 Atlanta area

Maryland 5 Calvert, Charles & St. Mary’s Counties
Maryland 7 Baltimore & adjacent Counties

Michigan 13 Wayne County area
Michigan 15 Detroit area

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

NEVADA, S. CAROLINA & REVISIONS

With Mitt Romney and John McCain picking up expected wins in Nevada and South Carolina, we now have our first six Republican Presidential candidate selection processes in the record books. Unfortunately, in many instances, those other than Republicans were engaged in the process.

As voters become more aware that we live in a very dangerous world, that the situation in Pakistan, possessor of nuclear capabilities, is very worrysome, as it is in much of the rest of the world, couple these situations with the position of all the democrat Presidential candidates (and at least one of the Republicans) in regard to keeping America safe, is how to word our surrender document, perhaps more thought will be given to candidate selection.

With this concern in mind, Linden will now post his current preference listing: The rating of December 1 is bracketed.

1. Fred Thompson (4) With one second place finish and a couple of thirds, he can still catch fire.
2. Mitt Romney (4) Has very impressive credentials.
3. Rudy Giuliani (3) He and Romney were essentially tied in December.
4. John McCain (6) Would also promote a strong America but has proven to be less desirable in other areas.
5. Ron Paul (8) Makes Linden very nervous.
6. Mike Huckabee (7) Makes Linden even more nervous.
Duncan Hunter (2) and Tom Tancredo (5) have discontinued their efforts.

The upcoming contests, particularly in Florida, will be very important. It is still likely that the top four will fight it out in the convention.
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
-----

BUY ME?

“AN OLD MAN ON THE ST. JAMES WAY” recounts the pilgrimage across Northern Spain by this 75-year-old man. Author Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha


HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts.

Alabama 5 Huntsville
Alabama 7 Birmingham

Florida 2 Tallahassee
Florida 3 Jacksonville
Florida 17 North Miami
Florida 19 Boca Raton
Florida 20 Pembroke Pines
Florida 23 Fort Lauderdale

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste Considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

STILL FRED!

Now, with four contests (or jokes, if you prefer) behind us, Linden remains convinced that Fred Thompson is still the best candidate to be our next President. He remains hopeful that this will come to pass. If any other candidate had finished third in three out of the four selection processes (Iowa, New Hampshire, Wyoming and Michigan) the mainstream media would be full of references to this candidate being ready to pounce. Is it possible that they do not prefer a conservative?

If Fred can continue to finish in a respectable position, the coverage will increase as will vote totals. Or, more likely, if it should go to convention to be settled, it is easy to see him becoming the Republican candidate.

When time is available, I enjoy reading what other more gifted and perhaps equally conservative writers present. I enjoyed the following:
January 17, American Thinker, Kyle-Anne Shiver's "Obama, Hillary and Alinsky's Tactics"; January 18, Townhall, David Limbaugh's "Answering Fred's Call"; and January 18 National Review, Thomas Sowell's "Primary dilemmas."

PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
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BUY ME?

“MIND OVER FATTER” written in 1983 as a contrast to a Jane Fonda book. She had a better publisher so sales languished. It, written in calligraphy, was the first to present the concept of vicarious exercise. “An approach to weight control and physical conditioning which provides solace for the sedentary – includes recipes and statistical political commentary.”

Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha
-----
HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

Pennsylvania 1 Philadelphia area
Pennsylvania 14 Pittsburgh area

Rhode Island 2 Warwick area

Texas 9 Houston area
Texas 16 El Paso
Texas 20 San Antonio
Texas 28 Laredo

Virginia 3 Newport News area

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.
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WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

GUILT SALVE

Perhaps it is Linden's altruistic nature or possibly it is due to hearing of the smothering smog in a certain area in China that caused this idea to germinate. Hopefully, it will lead to an opportunity being made available to you, gentle reader, to address a pollution problem that is being ignored by so many who are less caring than us. Since we are in the early stages of planning this project, do not send financial assistance - yet, unless you are absolutely and terribly guilt ridden.

The ACTION PLAN to date, is to identify the worst polluters, on a country by country basis, from among those who have been exempted from taking any control action by the Kyoto Protocol. After identification and when funding becomes available, contacts will be established in these countries by the GUILT SALVE GROUP and seedlings will be sent to these working contacts for planting where appropriate.

FUND RAISING: Finding willing contributors is sometimes difficult. So, in this regard we will attempt to identify those with a history of giving - such as those who contributed to the Presidential campaigns of Biden, Dodd and/or Richardson. The resulting flood of money will enable us to influence Congress to identify those in the Department of Energy who were influential in providing millions of dollars to somewhat similar projects. Congress will then cause a significant portion of the salaries of those identified to be diverted to our funding need.

CONTROLS: Guilt Salve monies will be handled as a part of Linden's personal wealth. In return, Linden will promise to never have a new home constructed of a size greater that 5,000 square feet and, further, will agree to not go jetting all over the world more than four times per year.
When a few more organizational matters are resolved, we will have the kick-off announcement.

PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
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BUY ME?

“MIND OVER FATTER” written in 1983 as a contrast to a Jane Fonda book. She had a better publisher so sales languished. It, written in calligraphy, was the first to present the concept of vicarious exercise. “An approach to weight control and physical conditioning which provides solace for the sedentary – includes recipes and statistical political commentary.”

Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha
-----
HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

Pennsylvania 1 Philadelphia area
Pennsylvania 14 Pittsburgh area

Rhode Island 2 Warwick area

Texas 9 Houston area
Texas 16 El Paso
Texas 20 San Antonio
Texas 28 Laredo

Virginia 3 Newport News area

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.
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WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

MICHIGAN PRIMARY

Linden has not changed his Republican preference ranking for the top two preferred Republican candidates (Thompson and Hunter) since releasing his rankings on December 1, 2007. Rankings have changed only slightly for those others listed at that time.

In regard to the democrat candidates, his ranking them all as being highly undesirable has not changed.

His belief remains strong that the Iowa, New Hampshire and Michigan contests are structurally flawed and mean little.

His belief that the media, despite recent setbacks and wrong guesses, remains opposed to any who hold conservative positions (see Thompson and Hunter) and will remain committed to any democrat on the one side and Huckabee and McCain on the other. Now, to the Michigan results.

Mitt Romney disappointed the media by handily winning this mostly meaningless contest. It probably will not be mentioned but Fred Thompson finished fourth without actively campaigning.

On the democrat side, "uncommitted" (meaning a majority of blacks) did better than expected against Hillary Clinton.

Linden is glad that the first three "contests" are behind us!
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
-----
BUY ME?

“BIBLE BASED PUZZLES” is a group of 78 cryptograms, one or more from each Book of the Bible, with the answers provided at the end of the book. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha
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HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

Illinois 12 East St. Louis

Massachusetts 1 Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire and other Counties
Massachusetts 2 Springfield area
Massachusetts 3 Bristol and three other Counties
Massachusetts 4 Bristol and three other Counties
Massachusetts 5 Essex, Middlesex and Worcester Counties
Massachusetts 7 Middlesex and Suffolk Counties
Massachusetts 8 Middlesex and Suffolk Counties

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?
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Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

CURRENT EVENTS

Linden would prefer to post something reflecting deep thought regarding the Michigan primary. But, since he regards it as possibly even more of a sham than the Iowa and New Hampshire shows, it would be difficult to apply "deep thought" to anything that may be said. As a Republican, Linden resents the allowance of non party members to have any influence in the selection of his Presidential candidate.



So, with politics being off the table for today, Linden settled on writing about the Golden Globe awards: A subject he could hardly have less interest in. Of the 14 winners in the motion pictures category, Linden had heard of the name of the animated film and had possibly heard of Julie Christie. So much for the movies.



Of the 11 television categories, Linden had heard of Glenn Close (he believed she was a man) and, just today in the cardiologists office, became aware of Tina Fey: She was featured in an advertisement in a magazine he was leafing through while a television program in the background was recounting some tale of woe. Daytime television! Does any person capable of reading watch it? It is possible that the same question could be asked of nightime television as well. Happily, the report from the cardiologist was somewhat encouraging.

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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
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BUY ME?

“LETTERS TO GOD” is a group of over 50 individual prayer requests made to God. The answer, if known, to the individual prayers is also shown. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha
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HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

California 20 Fresno general area
California 31 Part of Los Angeles County
California 33 Part of Los Angeles County

Georgia 5 Atlanta area

Maryland 5 Calvert, Charles & St. Mary’s Counties
Maryland 7 Baltimore & adjacent Counties

Michigan 13 Wayne County area
Michigan 15 Detroit area

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.
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WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.

PERSONAL PLUS POLITICAL

PERSONAL: My birthday celebration season is now officially over for 2008: Son, Brian, and two of his children, Jake and Alison, made the long trip from their home on Saturday and we had a few happy hours together. (No unhappy minutes!) He brought a huge bag of pistachios (which I love) and DVDs of the first season of "24." This is my favorite TV show and I have not yet seen the episodes he brought. I am so blest.

Sunday brought morning church services, Sunday school, and an evening ordination service for two new Deacons. Some pretty good food followed the ordination. Brian called from near the Ohio line shortly after I arrived home from morning services and called again a few hours later to let me know that he arrived home safely.

Sometime over the weekend I read that an air powered car was going into production: About 25 years ago I intended to try to put one of those together - it would have been difficult with neither money or skill. But, I had a brother-in-law with skills and probably could have put a prototype together. Do I care? NO. Also the weekend brought me the unwelcome news that the effort to bring some of my music to market will not be as soon as I had hoped. Do I care? Not a great deal.

POLITICAL: As I was attempting to find something worth posting in regard to the Michigan Primary, I read that Michigan has the highest unemployment rate in the nation: Bad things happen when democrats are elected! Frankly, Linden thinks that the Iowa, New Hampshire and Michigan candidate selection efforts are a waste: Surely a better system could easily be developed. In reading the totals mentioned in one reported poll, McCain and Romney combined for 53% and Huckabee accounted for another 14%: No other candidate was mentioned. Linden will assume that Fred Thompson has the other 33%.
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS BELOW: YOU MAY FIND AN INEXPENSIVE GIFT, A WORTHWHILE POLITICAL ENDEAVOR OR A MEANS OF HAVING FUN WITH THE MEDIA.
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BUY ME?

“AN OLD MAN ON THE ST. JAMES WAY” recounts the pilgrimage across Northern Spain by this 75-year-old man. Author Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha


HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts.

Alabama 5 Huntsville
Alabama 7 Birmingham

Florida 2 Tallahassee
Florida 3 Jacksonville
Florida 17 North Miami
Florida 19 Boca Raton
Florida 20 Pembroke Pines
Florida 23 Fort Lauderdale

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste Considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on “comments” below will not result in your comment being forwarded.
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BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Upon arriving home and stepping out of the car into the cold North wind, it came to me - the birthday celebrations are over for this year: I loved them.

As I have already posted, Julie and Kenneth were here for a combination Christmas and birthday celebration last Sunday. My birthday had been on the preceding Friday. I expect to be eating various snacks that they brought for at least another three months. This should have been celebration enough.

On Wednesday, my friend, formerly a Vietnamese, arranged a birthday luncheon for me at a Vietnamese restaurant. Three other friends from my days of employment by the Indiana Dept. of Correction joined us. I had pepper steak and it was delicious. The conversation was good and made even better by the fact that Bob had forgotten to bring my birthday cake. Which, I'm sure, he had been carefully instructed to do. Great celebration.

Today, a week after my birthday, the third celebration was held: Just Sam and myself were present. This type of meeting was originally started well over 20 years ago as four members of the Indiana Dept. of Public Welfare workforce would celebrate birthdays together. These meetings were modified to become a Dissolution Committee wherein we strove to dissolve the affairs of the "birthday club." We are still working at it. One of the original members is now deceased and Bob, now in Florida, will not pay his dues.

I had soup and half of a very good Italian sausage sandwich: The other half will be dinner. The primary focus of our discussions today was our introduction to and continuation of our military service. This started well over fifty years ago. Another good celebration.
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As I completed this posting, my son, Brian, called and it now appears that the celebrations may resume this weekend with him and two of his children. GOD IS GOOD.
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Since postings by Linden usually contain something of a political nature and this one does not, He would encourage you to read Sharon's posting of Jan. 10 entitled FRED!!! http://sherbitter.livejournal.com/
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PLEASE SCAN THE ITEMS APPEARING BELOW.
-----

BUY ME?

“MIND OVER FATTER” written in 1983 as a contrast to a Jane Fonda book. She had a better publisher so sales languished. It, written in calligraphy, was the first to present the concept of vicarious exercise. “An approach to weight control and physical conditioning which provides solace for the sedentary – includes recipes and statistical political commentary.”

Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha


HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

Pennsylvania 1 Philadelphia area
Pennsylvania 14 Pittsburgh area

Rhode Island 2 Warwick area

Texas 9 Houston area
Texas 16 El Paso
Texas 20 San Antonio
Texas 28 Laredo

Virginia 3 Newport News area

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----
Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please be aware that clicking on "comments" below will not result in your comment being forwarded.
-----

BREAKFAST BUDDIES

This slightly changed format is due entirely to our breakfast meeting. Previous postings used the BUY ME, HELP WANTED and WHAT IF format followed by the subject of the daily posting. Chuck suggested that the daily subject be first and the other sections follow. Linden, because he respects Chuck's judgment, followed the suggestion and now expects book sales to mushroom, the neglected political positions to be filled and the media to become vastly superior to what it is at present.

Our group, consisting of Bill, Chuck, Jack, Paul and Linden, has met for years for breakfast and conversation. The conversation has no guidelines whatever but usually includes something relating to politics, morality and religious matters. We, after greetings, ordering, and being served, open with prayer and close with a reading. Poking fun at each other in the time between the prayer and the reading is a staple of our meetings.

Today, we joined in a critique of the various aspects of the Presidential candidate selection process, the recent heavy rains, Bill spoke on high property taxes, Paul on his upcoming trip, Chuck on my blog and Jack, a friend of over 50 years, recounted his difficult service as Treasurer of a political campaign Linden was involved in about 15 years ago. Linden, as usual, spoke little: Well, he may have made some mention of President Clinton"s outstanding ability to fake emotion, as he did in the time of the Ron Brown funeral.

Maybe soon we will return to politically oriented Postings. Please scan the items appearing below.
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BUY ME?

“BOUT FIRTEEN COUNTRY CHILDERN RIMES” is a group of 20 poems written in a style reminiscent of James Whitcomb Riley and 20 accompanying illustrations. This book is little more expensive than a greeting card. Since both the author and the illustrator are now deceased, use Linden Swift as the author name when inquiring online.

“OUTSTANDING NATIONAL LEAGUE BASEBALL PITCHERS OF THE LAST 42 YEARS” Published in 1987, this book could be of interest to older baseball fans. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha


HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

New Jersey 1 Camden and Gloucester Counties
New Jersey 10 Essex, Hudson and Orion Counties

New York 5 Queens and Nassau Counties
New York 6 Queens
New York 9 Brooklyn and Queens
New York 22 Delaware and seven other Counties

North Carolina 1 Roanoke Rapids, Rocky Mount and other areas

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.
-----

Send comments to: LWDcomment@aol.com

Please note that clicking on "comments" below will not cause your comment to be forwarded.

FIRST TWO???

BUY ME?

“BIBLE BASED PUZZLES” is a group of 78 cryptograms, one or more from each Book of the Bible, with the answers provided at the end of the book. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha


HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

Illinois 12 East St. Louis

Massachusetts 1 Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire and other Counties
Massachusetts 2 Springfield area
Massachusetts 3 Bristol and three other Counties
Massachusetts 4 Bristol and three other Counties
Massachusetts 5 Essex, Middlesex and Worcester Counties
Massachusetts 7 Middlesex and Suffolk Counties
Massachusetts 8 Middlesex and Suffolk Counties

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.

FIRST TWO???

The title of this posting is for the purpose of raising the question regarding exactly what the first two efforts to seclect Presidential candidate has proven. First, let us consider what this selection process is within Iowa and New Hampshire. A problem , from Linden's view, with the Iowa caucus is that voting is not a private matter, as it is in a real election. For New Hampshire, it is the acceptance of the vote of "independents," as if they ascribe to the foundational party beliefs.

The truth is, neither of these first two States are very significant in the actual selection of our next President. They are granted untold reams of newsprint and hours upon hours of media attention and millions upon millions of dollars accrue to the possible benefit of the taxpayers within these States. There appears to be no reason why this is true.

Going forward to next Tuesday's Michigan primary (which may have it's own flaws,) it will still be too early, after these results, to have a clear view of whom the Presidental candidates will be. This will not dampen in the slightest the flow of words. Based upon an evidenced need: GOD BLESS AMERICA.
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BACK TO THE CAMPAIGN

BUY ME?

“LETTERS TO GOD” is a group of over 50 individual prayer requests made to God. The answer, if known, to the individual prayers is also shown. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha


HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

California 20 Fresno general area
California 31 Part of Los Angeles County
California 33 Part of Los Angeles County

Georgia 5 Atlanta area

Maryland 5 Calvert, Charles & St. Mary’s Counties
Maryland 7 Baltimore & adjacent Counties

Michigan 13 Wayne County area
Michigan 15 Detroit area

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.

BACK TO THE CAMPAIGN

Linden was not a bit surprised when a quick scan of the election related article on the front page of the local paper contained not a single word about Fred Thompson. This particular article originated with Washington Post writers. In this regard, it was remarkably similar to yesterday's front page Gannett News Service article: Not a word about Fred Thompson. Do you think this is accidental? Linden does not think so.

Talk radio, which has emerged as perhaps the only honest news source, reported that Fred Thompson was having up to seven events a day. The print media, when it mentioned him at all, reported that he was without energy or some such negative. The truth is, the largely liberal print media is actively opposed to Fred Thompson. Television reporting is hardly better.

The ABC January 5 "debate" airing reported that Thompson and McCain tied for third in the Iowa caucus. WRONG! Linden watched all of the Republican portion of the presentation and maybe half of the democrat part. He rated, as follows, the Republicans: plus, minus, or not at all in regard to their responses. OIL: plus Thompson. STRONG AMERICA: plus Thompson, McCain, Romney. Minus Paul. ECONOMICS/POLLS: plus Thompson, Giuliana. minus Paul. MEDICAL: plus Thompson, Giuliani, McCain, Romney. minus Paul. IMMIGRATION: Thompson, Romney, Paul. WHY NOT OBAMA: Thompson, Giuliani McCain, Romney.

The democrats were all WEAK on OSAMA ben LADEN, A NUCLEAR ATTACK ON AMERICA, and APPROVAL OF THE IRAQ "SURGE." When asked about SPENDING, they all talked about healthcare. Anyone ever heard of "EARMARKS?"

Linden can see no reason to discontinue support for Fred Thompson.
-----

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CHRISTMAS SNACKS FROM JULIE

BUY ME?

“AN OLD MAN ON THE ST. JAMES WAY” recounts the pilgrimage
across Northern Spain by this 75-year-old man. Author Linden Swift.
Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or
Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha


HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican
candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions
offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed
below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help
find a Republican candidate in these districts.

Alabama 5 Huntsville
Alabama 7 Birmingham

Florida 2 Tallahassee
Florida 3 Jacksonville
Florida 17 North Miami
Florida 19 Boca Raton
Florida 20 Pembroke Pines
Florida 23 Fort Lauderdale

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste
Considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile,
6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers
Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose
to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.

CHRISTMAS SNACKS FROM JULIE

First, a recommendation that you read Randall Hoven's Jan. 7 posting in American Thinker of "HEY GOP: CHEER UP, CHIN UP!

For the first time in this campaign season, I watched all of the Republican section and part of that of the democrats on TV Saturday night. I thought Fred Thompson was the "winner" and McCain was the best of the rest. As usual, what I watched of the democrats caused me to worry slightly about any person who would support any of that lackluster bunch.

I intended to write today in greater detail about the "debate" but Julie and Kenneth came to see me after Church and Sunday School and few things, at this point in my life, could be more important than that. They had been in England to see Kenneth's family at Christmastime so this trip here was a combination of Christmas in Indiana and celebration of my Friday birthday.

God has so blessed my life with Julie and Brian, my daughter and son, that I have to wonder how I could have been blessed with children that I love, admire and am incredibly proud of. I am blessed, indeed.

As usual Julie brought me an immense store of snack foods - over 20 separate items. Kenneth and I sampled (generously) the wasabi peas, banana chips, and sesame sticks. That girl surely knows what is the way to her Father's heart. She had also ordered me some boots (which are yet to be delivered) and brought me some heavy socks to wear with the boots when they arrive.

This year was an even more generous replay of Christmas 2006 at which time I wrote a poem in celebration. I believe the poem is scheduled to be included with my writings in the soon to be delievered book of writings by members of the Avon Writers Group. It is not great but I like it. Here it is:

CHRISTMAS SNACKS FROM JULIE

With never a thought of all the calories
or calls of "there goes the fat man" from the galleries
I sample them all in utmost haste
never a morsel will I waste
first a crinkly gourmet chip
slathered with tasty onion dip
next a cracker flavored with sesame
then some hot dried peas called wasabi
Polish chocolate and other candy
I must describe as simply dandy
hot wasabi beans in a jar
cans of nuts the best there are
caramel corn and other treats
I'll sample each and then the meats
happy am I, her old Dad
she's the best daughter I ever had.
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SELECTION VS IOWA CAUCUS

BUY ME?

“MIND OVER FATTER” written in 1983 as a contrast to a Jane Fonda book. She had a better publisher so sales languished. It, written in calligraphy, was the first to present the concept of vicarious exercise. “An approach to weight control and physical conditioning which provides solace for the sedentary – includes recipes and statistical political commentary.”

Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha


HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

Pennsylvania 1 Philadelphia area
Pennsylvania 14 Pittsburgh area

Rhode Island 2 Warwick area

Texas 9 Houston area
Texas 16 El Paso
Texas 20 San Antonio
Texas 28 Laredo

Virginia 3 Newport News area

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.

SELECTION VS IOWA CAUCUS

Maybe two weeks ago Linden listed his selection ratings at that time for the candidates participating in the Iowa caucus. Since his feeling is that all of the democrats engaged in this contest are second rate, at best, he will not mention any of them now. The Republicans shown below are arranged in his then order of preference. Other than the first two listed, his feelings for any single candidate is not strong but any would be vastly superior to the competition from the other side of the aisle.

Thompson: It is strange that the major media only seemed to mention his lack of interest or energy - this while he was hosting more events than many of his competitors. Analysis: The media really does not want Thompson. He finished third in Iowa.

Hunter: Linden had little hope for success because he is not adequately funded and received little press coverage. He finished seventh in Iowa.

Giuliani: Mentioned frequently and with many strong points, he finished sixth in Iowa.

Romney: Well funded and articulate he finished second in Iowa.

McCain: A war hero he finished fourth in Iowa.

Huckabee: Very well spoken he finished first in Iowa.

Paul: Not mentioned often he finished fifth in Iowa.

Linden has not, as yet, changed his preference list. He suspects that the voters will change their sequence in the next contest.
-----

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JOB SECURITY?

BUY ME?

“BOUT FIRTEEN COUNTRY CHILDERN RIMES” is a group of 20 poems written in a style reminiscent of James Whitcomb Riley and 20 accompanying illustrations. This book is little more expensive than a greeting card. Since both the author and the illustrator are now deceased, use Linden Swift as the author name when inquiring online.

“OUTSTANDING NATIONAL LEAGUE BASEBALL PITCHERS OF THE LAST 42 YEARS” Published in 1987, this book could be of interest to older baseball fans. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha


HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

New Jersey 1 Camden and Gloucester Counties
New Jersey 10 Essex, Hudson and Orion Counties

New York 5 Queens and Nassau Counties
New York 6 Queens
New York 9 Brooklyn and Queens
New York 22 Delaware and seven other Counties

North Carolina 1 Roanake Rapids, rocky Mount and other areas

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.

JOB SECURITY?

You can believe Linden when he says that it has been really cold in Plainfield, IN the last couple of nights. He understood why this morning when he read the January 1 American Thinker posting by James Lewis entitled "Happy End of Global Warming" which presented the thinking of a British scientist. This reading was followed by a January 3 AT posting by Randall Hoven, "Top Russian scientist: global cooling coming. Now, Linden is not a scientist, he bases his disbelief on global warming solely on his conviction that Al Gore is always wrong. Regardless, it appears that his December 17 posting, "Global Cooling" may yet result in Linden being a Nobel prize winner.

The above is presented in order for you to start considering what should happen, in the employment security area, to those thousands of "scientists" who have been busily pooh-poohing any who would dare to disagree with their thoughts. If thought is what we may call it. If their 'belief" is discredited should not they and their sponsoring organizations also be discredited?

-----

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IS IT TRUE?

BUY ME?

“BIBLE BASED PUZZLES” is a group of 78 cryptograms, one or more from each Book of the Bible, with the answers provided at the end of the book. Author: Linden Swift. Available locally at Uncommon Corner in downtown Plainfield, IN or Secondhand Stories on Raceway road. Also online:

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories

www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha


HELP WANTED

It appears that in the last general election there were no Republican candidates in 39 districts scattered across 15 states. These positions offer much more than just good pay. Some of these districts are listed below in State, District and general location sequence. Please help find a Republican candidate in these districts. Even if these districts can reasonably be considered “lost causes,” the effected taxpayers need to have a choice.

Illinois 12 East St. Louis

Massachusetts 1 Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire and other Counties
Massachusetts 2 Springfield area
Massachusetts 3 Bristol and three other Counties
Massachusetts 4 Bristol and three other Counties
Massachusetts 5 Essex, Middlesex and Worcester Counties
Massachusetts 7 Middlesex and Suffolk Counties
Massachusetts 8 Middlesex and Suffolk Counties

In recent ratings, the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste considered 32 of the present officeholders (democrats) to be hostile, 6 unfriendly, and 1 lukewarm to taxpayers. The National Taxpayers Union granted a grade of “F” to 36 of this group while 3 of them rose to a “D”.

WHAT IF?

Surely you believe that the liberal dominated news media is very, very selective in what “news” they will print or report. Have you noticed the absence of reporting about the improved situation in Iraq? There are, of course, other examples but Linden will assume that you can think. WHAT IF, you complained to the lackluster “news” provider and, if satisfaction is not obtained you then call those who advertise in that medium? Your message could be something like: “ I am disappointed that you choose to advertise in or on …. Who will not report…. Perhaps this approach would pay dividends in the form of less biased news coverage.

IS IT TRUE?

While listening to Greg Garrison's local radio talk show this morning, I think that I heard something that is just unbelievable: Surely my hearing was defective! I believe Greg's guest at that time was Chris Horner. If I truly heard what I think I heard, either my thought processes or those of the majority of voters in a California Ditrict are not what they should be.

I think that I heard that Henry Waxman (not nearly one of Linden's favorites) had inserted a provision in a House Bill which was approved by Nancy Pelosi's House and later removed by the Senate. The provision would allow any person to sue the U. S. Government for contributing to global warming. The Government could, as one means of making retribution, buy carbon credits. HAS THE WHOLE WORLD GONE CRAZY? Or, is it just restricted to those Districts such as the one in California?

-----

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