[DollarBill]

I never would have thought that an internet site that I stumbled across back in 1997, would play such a significant part in all our lives. And that significance was never as evident as it was this week. Sharing, with one another, our love and sorrow for our greatest President and his incredible friend and wife.

But, it wasn't just this week's events that I will forever associate Free Republic with. It was the other significant events of the past several years that are intertwined to this great forum: I remember seeing a post come across late at night that Princess Diana was in a car accident; I remember reading the early morning post, and following along, that the Space Shuttle was going to be coming into view on the west coast; I remember going to my computer on the morning of 9/11 after we heard the first plane had struck (and later that day, being able to see Air Force One, with it's fighters fly over the Northern Illinois sky because someone on Free Republic said you could see it - I ran outside just in time to see the contrails above in the clear blue sky); I remember being glued to FR during the elections; I found out everything, and more, that I needed to know about the real Bill & Hillary Clinton (thanks AlamoGirl); but most importantly, I found out that there are other people that have the same ideals, the same love of country, the same dedication to preserving our freedoms that I do. I found out that there is always a place that I can go (with the vast majority of my time on Free republic just lurking) to read, to learn, to feel, and to share.

In a few short years, Jim, you have created a living monument to conservatisim and to the love of this country. You have created a place that we can all go to share our views and our experiences. And, it is for that, that I thank you. Well, on the eve of another significant time, Ronald Reagan's funeral, Free Republic was a significant part of it. Every morning, every night, every day, Free Republic is a part of my life - to get my news, to research, or to just have a laugh; as I'm sure it is for so many other Freepers. So, I know this is long overdue, but I will be signing up for a monthly donation; a small investment on something that has already paid big returns in my life! I hope others with follow suit. Thank you Jim Robinson. Thank you.

[tet68]

I'll second that.
Thanks Jim.

[Socratic]

Grateful thanks, likewise offered.

[nuconvert]

You're right.
Thanks from me, too.

[theDentist]

Hat's off to you, Jim.

[ladyinred]

Another second that emotion.

Thanks Jim and all who help bring this wonderful place to life 24/7!

[groanup]

Yes it's a wonderful thing and FR is a wonderful place to be this week. I just want to chime in that as Ronald Reagan changed the world for the better FR is doing no less. Jim Robinson has been a significant part of a revolution in information. His name is more than a footnote in history. It is history. I feel honored to be a part of it. So should we all. I don't mean to distract from the moment but there IS a comparison.

[William Tell]

DollarBill said: In a few short years, Jim, you have created a living monument to conservatisim and to the love of this country.

Yes.

What little sanity I have remaining is due to the existence of FreeRepublic. Thank you, Jim.

[beethoven]

What a beautiful gesture. . .I concur.

[hocndoc]

Here's another.

I believe that my life has been changed by what I've learned and the skills I've honed directly because of involvement on FR.

Thank you, Mr. Robinson.

[Rocky]

Well said. You spoke for all of us, DollarBill.

[buccaneer81]

Jim, You Da Man!!

[southernnorthcarolina]

Thanks for posting this, $B. This sentiment should more often be expressed.

Free Republic has absolutely changed the way I watch major news events. I'm sure I haven't had the TV on for so many hours in a week since the 2000 elections, and almost the whole time, I was on line with FR; had I been unable to monitor both, I'd have ditched the TV and stayed with FR, the powerful visuals of the tube notwithstanding. Fortunately, I didn't have to make the choice.

Free Republic, as far as I'm concerned, FR has become the place to watch the news unfold. The memorial week to President Reagan reminded me, in a twisted sort of way, of the Wellstone "memorial" of 2002. Then, too, I watched TV and FR simultaneously. And when the "service" began, the FR board lit up like Tokyo by night. Watching the outraged comments come pouring in, hours before the conservative media picked up on it, and days before the media did, you could almost feel the political landscape shift.

I now can't imagine being without Free Republic, and I hope everyone who feels likewise will remember the next time one of those annoying fundraising orgies comes along.

[arjay]

Thank you for putting my own thoughts into words. Jim's work and forum have been a Godsend for me.

[Eastbound]

Speaks for me too, DollarBill.

JimRob: Salute!

[Jim Robinson]

Well, thank you all very much. God bless.
Jim

[skr]

Well said. Most appreciated, Mr. Robinson.

[Libertina]

And respects from the Puget Sound
Chapter as well! Thank you Jim & family!
We'll see you in August!

[ThePythonicCow]

bump

[DollarBill]

An appreciative bump!

[q_an_a]

I can't be second but I can always be grateful. Thanks Jim for your work and the space you provide for the sharing of ideas.