A mix of politics and Lincoln for August cartoon caption contest

U.S. Stamp Notes by John M. Hotchner

Serious politicking is the order of the day as we proceed toward election day on Nov. 5 with the presidential race in play as well as control of the House of Representatives, Senate, governors’ mansions and thousands of down-ballot races.

It is fair to say that the average voter has been left with mouths agape as the last year has unfolded, and each day brings more of the same. Perspective is hard to generate when the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train. And that’s where we seem to be.

Through the cartoon caption contest stamp this month, I would like to ask Linn’s readers to look at today through a 160-year-old lens. To do this, the stamp for the contest is the 2009 42¢ Lincoln as Politician stamp (Scott 4382) from the set of four (Scott 4380-4383). commemorating the 200th anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln.

Lincoln was known and is remembered for his principled wisdom and his practical nature, perhaps best represented by the text of his Gettysburg Address. So the question is, how would he interpret the situation today in light of the principles he stood for?

I normally ask for a humorous approach for cartoon caption contest entries, and today is no exception. The political situation is serious, but not without its moments in which candidates may joke and try to lighten the atmosphere.

So I ask you to put on Lincoln’s stovepipe hat and deliver a Lincolnesque comment on today’s goings-on.

If you prefer to avoid politics, that is not a problem. You can address other things in Lincoln’s voice, such as stamp collecting, modern technology, pop culture or anything else that inspires you.

There will be two prizes given to the winners: one for the best philatelic line and one for the best nonphilatelic line.

Put your entry (or entries) on a postcard if possible and send it to me, John Hotchner, Cartoon Contest, Box 1125, Falls Church, VA 22041-0125; or email it to jmhstamp@verizon.net. If you send an email, it is essential that you include your postal mailing address.

For each winner, the prize will be a 13-week subscription to Linn’s (a new subscription or an extension). Entries must reach me no later than Aug. 23.

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