Submitted by Timothy Price, Feb 28, 2008 04:02

I was all of 12 years old when my political education really began one Monday evening in 1970. My father and I were watching "Laugh-In" when Mr. Buckley made his first appearance. I had no idea who he was, although I remember I'd heard his name before. I recall that his appearance on the show seemed to be a big deal, but I couldn't figure out why. When he finally appeared on camera, it was like a news conference with the cast members as reporters. The last question was posed by Ruth Buzzi, I believe. She noted that there had been numerous prior attempts to get him on the show, all without success, and wondered what finally changed his mind. Mr. Buckley replied that the producers offered to fly him out to California on a plane with two right wings. My father erupted in laughter. I had no idea what the hell was so funny, and my Dad wasn't inclined to explain the joke at that moment. I felt cheated, so the next day I began to read about Left vs. Right in politics, which I found surprisingly fascinating. This, in turn, ignited an interest in politics and government and law and history which are my passions to this day. Thank you, Rowan and Martin and William F. Buckley (P.S.: I still laugh at that joke)

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