Many kindly folks responded to our appeals these past few days, and NR’s 2019 Spring Webathon now enters the last few days still some $25,000 short of its $175,000 goal (which, given our needs, could really have been double that amount). If we could hit that, and even surpass that . . . ah, one can dream. But then with such wonderful supporters as these, why shouldn’t we?


• Larry kindly gives NR $100 and expresses a sentiment that reflects that of many others: “I have come to appreciate your journalistic stance against the political and economic extremes that those of a socialist mindset endeavor to create in our great republic. Keep going.”

• In line with that is Carl, who also drops $100 into the collection basket, and a common sentiment: “I thank you for your diversity of conservative thought; it is refreshing that we can disagree without rancor among ourselves; that we remain respectful of those with whom we may have disagreements. We all share the same basic philosophy and that keeps us united. Thank you, National Review.” Back at you, and double!

• Another $100, this time from Robert, who pats our back: “Thanks for the thoughtful and always well-written arguments and analyses. Our society desperately needs your voices, and I’m glad to contribute my little bit to that worthy cause.” Nothing little about this. Thanks.


• Sammy does likewise because he digs the Apostle Kat: “Because of all the great writers and the audience this magazine reaches. In particular, Kat Timpf and the other writers bringing the message to the millennial generation.”


• Daniel was moved to donate $400 thusly: “In response to Rich Lowry’s request to support the excellent work of Alexandra DeSanctis and your other fine writers on the issue of abortion.” Humbled by this.

• Natalie gives $50 and admits to a dark secret: “I enjoy Fowler.” A very acquired taste.

• John spots us $25 and for good reason: “NR is a world class force for free speech and journalistic integrity.” Thanks for having our back in this fight.

• Maxim sends $100 and shares an important personal warning: “I grew up in the Soviet Union and have seen first-hand the devastating effect of communism on a nation. Most troublesome is not the economic impact on the standards of living, but the moral decay, apathy, and cynicism that traps its citizens. I came here hoping that my kids will never get to experience this kind of life. Please accept this modest contribution to help spread the word of common sense and freedom.” Love this! Thanks.


• Pavel puts $50 into the tip cup and gives a hint as to how much NR has meant to so many, the world over: “Reading the NR since 1965. At that time it was only available at the U.S. Embassy in Prague, Czechoslovakia.”


• Robin tenders 200 smackers and gives thanks to NR’s ever-thereness: “After three decades out of college, living in South America and befriending many expats, I returned to NR as to a lighthouse from the rough seas!” We bet you saw Bill Buckley sailing them!

• Len sends a grand. Yeah, $1,000. And get this: “National Review is an essential institution. I am honored that I am allowed and respected for commenting here. To me it’s just showing the flag. To the people who are stationed at this defensive redoubt against the barbarism of hijacked solidarity, I offer this humble donation because your efforts are worth it, and because I can.”


• Ditto: Chris makes with the $1,000 gift. Zounds! “From J. R. R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings: ‘What can man do against so much reckless hate?’ ‘Contribute to National Review!’ (Actually, Aragorn said, ‘Ride out with me,’ but we all know what he meant.)” Hoping everyone follows your inspiration and makes donating to NR a regular . . . hobbit.

• Wow, wow, wow: Cynthia. Five Grand. Wow again. It comes with orders: “Keep up the good work. Please stay civil, decent, and open-minded! I sincerely appreciate the range of conservative opinion in National Review.” We don’t doubt that, but your appreciation cannot come close to ours. Thanks.

• Pavel puts $50 into the tip cup and gives a hint as to how much NR has meant to so many, the world over: “Reading the NR since 1965. At that time it was only available at the US Embassy in Prague, Czechoslovakia.”

We hope these good people, just a handful of the 1,300 who has so far responded to our appeals, will inspire another 1,300 to do likewise in these final days. Please give what you can, knowing that we know your (deeply appreciated!) generosity is selfless. Help us reach, and even surpass, our goal of $175,000 by donating to the 2019 Spring Webathon here. If you wish to send a check, here’s the drill: Make it payable to “National Review” and mail it to National Review, ATTN: Spring 2019 Webathon, 19 West 44th Street, New York, NY 10036. Thank you very much.