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"If it touches you, it touches me".
"What's on YOUR mind?"


RUDI'S FAVORITE IS INTERACTING WITH AN AUDIENCE
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Sharing is a good thing. And Now It's Your Turn to Express Yourself.


Your turn. This is the MAILBAG, where listener comments and emails are shared. Please note that some entries may be edited to correct spelling or format. I may respond to some comments, and will include links to referenced articles or items as appropriate. That said, "have at it." Send your comments to rudi@mainstreetoutloud.com Let me know: "What's on YOUR mind?".

July 3, 2010
Rudi K,
What a powerful commentary!!  Whewwwwwwwwwweeeee!!!

JR
East Valley, AZ

May 30, 2010
Hi Rudi K,

What an amazing program you presented on May 29, 2010. During times when people are relishing their plans for three day weekends and gatherings with family and friends you have taken the time to not only educate and inform your listening audience, but pay tribute to our fallen soldiers, those that passed later and those veterans of today. 


I find it utterly appalling that Mayor Gordon has recently had marriage difficulties while paying thousands of dollars to someone who now is his girlfriend, pretends to govern the city under one set of rules and regulations all the while using this "special fund" to pay and promote his own set of rules, agendas and plans to make Phoenix prosper.

If he is so bound to serve our community and promote Phoenix, why would he even consider to file a law suit against the state for SB1070? It seems to me to be some bizarre personal glorification program, and undoubtedly he would be tapping the city funds, even though he professes to "fund the lawsuit" out of his pocket, or rather the "special pocket money" fund. Completely appalling and disgusting to think that this is not only lawful but by doing so he is doing "the right thing".

Regarding your insight for SB1070, I feel that your passionate presentation was "spot on". We, as Americans, have no mud-slinging, detrimental thoughts or intentions against people that immigrate to our country; we were founded by immigrants from many lands. We are opposed and suffer harm from those who enter the country illegally, whether it's more subtitle in paying for their health care that they don't contribute to or more blatantly suffering by perishing under their gunfire or knives. SB1070 does not promote racial profiling, it just follows the law of our land and our constitution! Thank you for educating others and sharing a fresh, poignant point of view.

I must say that I could feel the goose bumps rise and my heart beat rise as you paid the honorable tribute to those we all should memorialize. Many of my family and friends have served our country, some fallen and some remain. How humbling and heart-warming to take a moment to pause, with you and our nation, to praise and glorify those who have given the ultimate sacrifices in order to preserve our nation and our Freedom. May we never forget that Freedom is not free and we will not remain in a society that promotes the American Dream and our incredible lifestyles if we do not take the steps to promote, preserve and defend it!

I completely agree with the gentleman that called in to the program to say that we should be posting your speech in our state libraries for all to read and absorb!


Thank you for all that you do, and I am looking forward to the next great program!

Louise M

Gilbert, AZ

Sometimes, it becomes very clear why I do what I do.  The following email brings out better than I could ever express.  Let me simply say:  Thank you to all who have served, to all who serve and thank you to the families of those that serve.  It is an honor to be among you.

May 29, 2010
Dear Rudi K,
I am writing this for my dad.  He doesn't use a computer, but he insisted this gets to you right away.  Both my mother and dad listen to your show each week.  Neither one of them have ever written to a radio or TV host or a newspaper reporter; you are the first.

Dad says he was applauding throughout the entire program that you did about the problems with our border, illegal immigration and the clear way you expressed your views.  He actually applauded you so much his hands got sore.  Honest. 

But, I am writing because he was brought to tears by your memorial.  Dad is a Viet Nam Army veteran, having served a total of 11 years before he was injured and sent home with a permanent disability.  Today, dad says he feels that people care about him and his buddies that didn't make it back.  Today, dad says you removed the scars and the bad memories of coming home.  Your tribute to all of us (I saw action in DS), fallen, veteran and still serving makes dad so proud to have served.  And I am proud to be his son and so happy to be able to write this for him.  Today, you've made a difference in some lives.  Thank you for what you do.  

You put a kick in my dad's step.  One last thing, he says he loves you.  Those are his actual words.

God bless you Rudi.
Darrell L for Douglas L.
Phoenix, AZ 
  

May 29, 2010
Dear Rudi,
I am in tears as I write this to thank you for an enlightening and altogether beautiful broadcast today.  The first part was intelligent and a learning experience.  I had been unaware of what was going on in Phoenix politics. Thank you for the education.

The second half was more of what I have come to expect from you -- in other words, it was informative and engaging. We share the same views on immigration and border protection.

The last part was moving almost beyond words, and I am so glad you chose Flander's Fields to recite in memorium of the Fallen Heroes.  What a beautiful, sad tribute it is.  I have never read it nor heard it read without a huge lump in my throat and tears in my eyes.  And to finish with Taps and radio silence was absolutely so emotion packed... I stood at attention with my hand over my heart and listened.

Thank you
Susan
Glendale, AZ

The following email was sent to us by one of the MSOL program sponsors.  We do not make it a practice to share the comments of a sponsor, positive or negative.  As a rule, broadcast stations and their programs only hear from a sponsor or their ad agency when there is a complaint about costs, exposure, competition, if an ad didn't run as scheduled or when they hear something they don't like and feel it may cost them business or image.  If a program gets a nod from a sponsor, it is generally a quick "atta boy". The president of EBX took the time to write the email expressing his pleasure.  I guess it shows just the character and integrity of this company.  As Rudi continues to remind us; our listeners and our sponsors are a cut above and this is just another example that proves him out. We thank EBX for its kind remarks.) Content was edited (but not altered) for length only.

April 5, 2010
Rudi

I wanted to tell you what a great show it was on Sat. I know I keep saying that this one was the best, but this was such a great follow-up to the previous Sat. show.  We commented on how organized you are and how nicely the show flows with the topics.

More so I really enjoyed the Easter commentary and the lack of embarrassment of the mention of a Christian Holiday tradition. How refreshing to hear someone verify the true meaning of Easter without the secular cover-ups.

Selfishly, I was so pleased with the commercial time and name recognition for EBX. Both on the commercial time and the air time during the discussion. 
All of us in this office could not be more pleased..........
 
We thank you very much for that as well as to be part of a show that stands for American Values. 
We are looking forward to your future show agenda’s.

Sincerely,
Phil B., President 
Employee Benefit Exchange, Inc. 
Mesa, AZ  

I contend that the listeners of MSOL are truly intellectual, knowing, clever and quite able to express themselves.   Many calls to the program and emails attest to my statement.  And the following email, from MBG, is no exception.   But, read it and decide for yourself.  While it is witty, the irony is that we need something to test the mental aptitude of those that represent us---based on recent programs and their performances. Edit Text

February 28, 2010 
Rudi K,
You have a great radio program, and I have been telling all my friends and family about MSOL!

Today, I am writing to comment on your recent commentary; "Mental-health overhaul clears Senate committee".  At first, I wondered where do you find these articles?!  

Then, after some musing, the thought to remove the members of the Senate who are "mentally" unsound may be a good idea.  Or better yet, to avoid future errors as the recent mistakes, there could be a daily "screening" similar to the metal detectors.. we could stay on top of things as they occur.  If you are mentally on track, you pass through. IF, for some reason, the beeper goes off, and the mental junk in the cerebral trunk is holding you back from making sound decisions, then "WAAAAAHHHHHNNNKKK" wrong answer, you can't enter.

How about a proposal (in place of money being spent against our wishes)  to develop something like the metal detectors, or something like MRI machines that our elected officials could put their heads into, to gain access to enter into OUR government halls.  If our elected officials needed to clear a test like that on a weekly or (to be safer) daily basis, instead of the popularity contests that win the elections; we might have a different set of rules.. and a different caliber of people making decisions for Main Street America.

Thank you for the fresh insight and brilliant points of view.
TGB
PV, AZ

February 10, 2010 
Rudi,
Thank you for the interesting program including the Tea Party Convention in Tennessee. You show is not only broad by spectrum, now you are covering events that are making history! I regret that we could not hear from Sarah Palin, but I suspect you will be interacting with more dignitaries in the future.

I would also like to comment on your recent essay, and the analogy of the "snow storm" in Congress and the actual blizzard conditions of the literal snow storm that indeed had been centered in the Baltimore, MD and Washington, DC area.

I must admit that I had felt that the quick departure of the legislators to be more like the Mad Hatter, from Alice in Wonderland. You can almost see the frantic conversations, looking at their watches, "I'm Late, I'm Late, for a very important date, I'm Late I'm Late I'm LATE!!" scampering about. all the while we can envision the junior legislators, like dear little Alice, aghast at the odd behavior and the strange creatures, finding out what Life through the looking glass is like!

How delightful your fresh and clever perspective on this crazy situation. Yes, even Mother Nature knows when there is a snow job afoot!

I look forward to your next program. Thank for all the engaging and refreshing perspective and great programs!

Michelle L
Arlington, Texas

February 1, 2010
Rudi, 
WOW and then WOW!  Talk about informative radio, your program really raises the bar.  While on our way to our daughter and son-in-laws house in the east valley, we were listening to your program.  We were so impressed that we called our daughter and asked them to tune in and also get ready to go to the Tea Party with us.  They were at first reluctant to go.

We went, we stayed for almost 3 hours.  We divided up, spoke to a few candidates and also caught your speech, about what our Founding Fathers had to say.  No wonder we like your program, you are a damn good speaker and you convinced us to get involved.  We will be more than just (as you put it) a 'for the people' person; we will be that part of government that is also of and by.  Thanks for the encouragement.  You really hit a chord with us.

Some may think this is a sappy email, so what.  We are impressed and it doesn't hurt to give kind remarks to those and about those that deserve it.  We have also subscribed for updates. 

Thanks for sharing, thanks for being on our side.
Al & Maria T.
Peoria, AZ

January 31, 2010
Hello Rudi, 
Thanks for bringing an excellent show to the airwaves Saturday!  I especially enjoyed listening to Lan and her take on immigration.  Many thanks to Kathy and the hosts of the Tea Party, and the political candidates who spoke on the air - it was refreshing to hear some sincere people indicate an interest in fixing some of our political problems. 

I hope America takes to heart how important it is to get out there and VOTE for conservative values.

All the best from your friend in the West
Susan

January 3, 2010
Dear Rudi K,
In regards to your recent essay on security, since when does our nation's security have to be "politically correct"? Is that not the main purpose for having Homeland Security and the TSA, to fight against and defend us from the people who are NOT politically correct in their words, actions and deeds?  

We, our country and our "defenses" here at home, have been acting as if our worldwide interaction is a tea party, a comfortable and casual gathering when all participants dress nicely, have congenial conversation and the theme of "it's a small world after all" is quieting playing in the background. How far from that reality do we have to get, i.e. the massacre at Fort Hood and the "explosive underwear" in Detroit, before the governmental representatives get a CLUE? Our protection, our security and our preservation of the American ideals and freedom IS their main job, and being politically correct may not play a role when the other participants do not follow the same rule book!  

We all need to voice our outrage and vocalize to our representatives to wake up, get some coffee and get down to business.. the business of protecting America and her people, yes, you, and me and those from sea to sea!  

Thank you for a great radio show, continuing into the New Year with vitality and vigor and for your insightful essays.
LM
Gilbert, AZ

December 31, 2009
Dear Rudi,
I just read your essay on Homeland Security. Great job. It is way past time to stop the political-correctness foolishness, and to actually look where the intelligence points us. Yes, that is profiling, and in the case of national security it is a smart and prudent thing to do. Patting down white-haired ladies in an airport when we have information that a certain Nigerian (whose NAME we even had!) posed a REAL risk, just doesn't make sense.  

We need to get rid of Napolitano and her lackeys and put people we can TRUST into key positions at Homeland Security. In describing her 'lackeys' I include her two latest appointees - two Arabs who are devout Muslims: Arif Alikhan and Kareem Shora. How in the world did we allow two self-proclaimed devout Muslim Arabs to be appointed by Napolitano to key posts in OUR homeland security??? Talk about handing the loaded gun to the burglar...  
Your faithful listener,
Susan W.
Glendale AZ

December 26, 2009

Rudi K

I might have just heard the best program I have heard in a long time.  And it might be so good because of the season we are celebrating.  Wahtever the reason, you can consider me one of your loyal listeners, as of today.  I will tell my friends about the show I just listened to.  I don't typically endorse programs or write to them, but I am making this exception today.


You opened my eyes and I will contact the 'Operation Homefront' in my area.  I have already looked it up on the web.  I also will contact my Salvation Army center to see if there is any volunteer work available.  I have a regular full time job and my wife and I have 3 children between 14 and 6, but I will make the effort to give of myself.  You are right, Americans are good and they do care, they just need a little shove from time to time.  Your words gave me that shove.

God bless you and your staff.  Keep up the good work.  My family and my friends; we will be listening EVERY Saturday.

Mike J
San Diego, CA

December 13, 2009

Dear Rudi

Poignant and refreshing and you bring it week after week.  Your discussion with our State

Treasurer, Dean Martin, was daunting, reconfirming that our state is "broke" but at the same

time amazing that he was straight-forward and without partisan bias.

 

Your discussion about allowing small businesses, our state's largest employer, to have tax

credits or at least relief from capital gains, etc would seem spot on to initiate immediately. When

businesses prosper, they keep employees, who can support themselves and their families,

who can contribute to the state's income instead of drawing from it in social welfare programs.

 

We need more action and programs like yours that reinforce positive initiatives and creative thinking!

Great job, well done! I can't wait to hear what is next on your program!

AM

EV, AZ

December 13, 2009

Rudi K,

What a great radio program yesterday! You have had such a variety of interesting and

timely guests, and the Honorable Dean Martin, Arizona State Treasurer, is a

perfect example!

I found his responses straight forward, and refreshing! Although the news was not

rosy, fabricated scenarios to dupe the public into a false sense of security, he came

straight to the point - our state is broke! As he replied that he is neither Republican

nor Democrat, but a neutral representative, our "banker" had none of the "mud-slinging"

"they said" or "they did" sort-of-excuses for the state of our financial affairs.

How quickly the hour passed and just as I was ready for the next question you

replied that you were out of time and the program ended! I hope that you will invite

Mr. Martin to return, "to get the rest of the story"!

 L. Mc

Gilbert, AZ

(The following is a response to my commentary on Tiger Woods (see essay page).  We can't possibly post every email, but we try to post emails that seem to go with the majority view, even if they majority disagrees with us.  Keep writing, we need to hear from you.)

December 8, 2009

Yes, and it's the same ole story....they're only sorry once they're caught.  Otherwise, he would be continuing to do what he has been doing for years.  I could forgive a one-time affair but it looks as though more are coming out of the woodwork.  Then there are those women that will try to gain attention and say they had an affair whether it really happened or not.
Merry Christmas
Darla H
Kansas

December 1, 2009
I have read the essay and while I agree that the s.o.b.'s have put us in a very difficult position but let's be honest they should not have all the blame.  I believe that business should also be included in the blame as the greed has become criminal.

A few examples are as follows:

1. Banks having no ramifications for reckless investments but are reimbursed by the taxpayers.

2. Banks and credit card companies charging usary rates on money that was spent by the taxpayer at one rate and     
   
suddenly the rate is increased by the banks and credit card companies.

3. Wall street with their reckless investments and then being reimbursed, oops, bailed out.

4. Auto companies being bailed out and then making profits on quarterly statements.

5. Banks with their bailout claiming billion dollar quarterly profits.

6. Oil companies making billions in net profit for quarters.

7. Oh sure they will have to pay income taxes on the few dollars that are finally claimed after high paid accounting firms
    claim all the fictitious deductions but the taxes will be charged to the public in the form of fees etc.

Let's give credit where credit is due.
Jay L.
Scottsdale, AZ

November 28, 2009
Thank you for continuing to present such thought provoking and engaging programs! They are very intriguing and inspiring.

Today you spoke of the Health Care reform bill and the steps the Congress and Senate are taking, progressing to the next step.

Sadly, it sounds like the side deals and special attention for individual states, like Louisiana, are guiding decisions more than working for bi-partisan, for the good of all in our nation. Don't get me wrong, I have the greatest remorse for the people who suffered through Hurricane Katrina and the devastation there, but that being said what about the floods in Mid America? in Georgia? the jobs lost by hundreds of thousands across the nation??

Why are we wasting more tax dollars to fund congressional investigative committees when the Majority Leader can veto or override all of the decisions??

Disappointed,

East Valley Fan

November 16, 2009
Rudi K,  What a great show on Sat. I am so glad you decided to do the show about this Traitor.

I for one was willing to call him a Terrorist and wanted everyone else to do so.

But, after listening to your comments, I do believe he does not warrant anything but a speedy Army Trial and the consequences that are fit for his cowardly actions.

Giving him what he wants, and that’s a Terrorist Label, is not what we should do.

You’re are so right!  Great Show.
Phil B.,former USMC
Gilbert, AZ

Nov. 2, 2009

I could not agree with you more on this issue....I've been twittering about this for months now!  The ridiculous rules of engagement are emboldening our enemies.  I'm certainly not for going into a region, guns blazing, without regard for human life....and neither are our soldiers.  However, when our soldiers are told NOT to shoot and run if they can, I predict more soldiers will be shot in the back.  This is a war, unconventional as it may be, but a war nonetheless.  If our "leaders" don't stop playing to the cameras to promote their new world order and start paying attention to fellow Americans that are dying for their freedoms (at their command!), then we should seriously consider the consequences of the 2008 election and reconsider our direction in this country!

This has always been my position, although I will admit now, with my son's deployment eminent, this weighs on my mind daily.  I'm involved with the Blue Star Moms and see other mothers and families crumbling under the pressure of this unconventional war.  I actually had a buddy of my son's contact me last week.  In our conversation, he thanked me for my support because "so many people hate us".  Who else but these brave heroes would leave their home and defend and protect the rights of those that they believe hate them!  Where is our moral compass in this country?

So again, I whole-heartedly agree with you - a President should not send people off to war and not give them the numbers or the authority to carry out their objective.  If that is the case, bring our men & women home and send in the Peace Corps!
N.C. in AZ
Proud Army Mom


Nov. 1, 2009
 
Dear Rudi K
Your recent essay hits the nail on the head! Why are there so many officials speaking badly of our Generals, when President Obama had asked for their recommendations and they provided their opinions for the best action plan?

I find it more offensive that we take offense to the experienced personnel offering their recommendations to deploy more soldiers than we do that our commander in chief is less experienced and is asking for input! What a crazy world we live in when we are perfectly willing to gamble with the lives of our soldiers UNTIL it hits home and one of our own family is injured or killed, then we are perfectly willing to voice the atrocities of war.

Thank you for your continued insight and inspiration, and for taking the time to express what "touches" you.
East Valley fan,
Gilbert, AZ

October 30, 2009
You nailed it for me.  Hope you don't mind, I sent your article to my senator. To bad all of Washington doesn't read this one.  America needs to back its military officers and they need to go get it done.   It is time to win this thing. 

A friend told me about your program.  I get you through the web and will listen to your new station and time.  Saturdays are hectic, but I will tune in.
Gene M.
USN-Retired
Seattle, WA.

October 29, 2009

I am very moved by your essay, Rudi. Yes, we need to refocus on the IMPORTANT issue at hand, the survival of Freedom. You are eloquent as always, and an excellent spokesman to remind us of the overshadowing issue, more important than any bonus, stimulus, or unemployment rate. Thank you for posting this. I hope everyone who reads it is galvanized into action, and I hope and pray that our President and Congress do the same. Your last paragraph sums it up: "Blood above cash!  Time to focus!  Time to be forceful!  Time to march!  Time to win!"   I can only add a hearty "Amen." 

Susan W.


***Web note:  The four previous  emails refer to a commentary I wrote October 26, 2009 entitled "Don't Bring a Stick to a Gun Fight".  You may access that article by going to: Don't Bring a Stick to a Gun Fight



September 28, 2009
Dear Rudi,
Thank you so much for all that you have done for us...including your own military service.  I was able to catch your program last week, it was wonderful.  I would love to auction some air time on your program.  It is a very generous offer.  I will be listening again tonight.  Thank you again for your generosity.
Sincerely,
Hannah M.
Goose Creek, S.C.

July 29, 2009
Hello Rudi K,
I am glad to find your recent program in the archives. I attentively listened a second time and felt compelled to write in.
I am so impressed with the POWERFUL and PASSIONATE response to the Harvard Professor, and his alleged mistreatment. On the one hand he seems to want HIS property to be protected, citing his comment that if neighbors spotted someone trying to break into his home he hoped they would call police.  HOWEVER, upon their arrival, they should NOT arrest the first Black man they spotted. And what if that first person was the perp?
I admire your intuition, your insight and reaction to a story of one person wanting to cry discrimination when indeed I see it more of an example of a racist wanting special treatment while marshalling a war cry for those less fortunate, as if he is a prime example of harassment and discrimination.
Indeed, this touches me and has moved me to keep an open mind, not always taking all information and situations at face value!  Thank you for your continued programs and a voice with a unique ability to bring what matters to Main Street.
A dedicated listener,
East Valley, AZ.

June 29, 2009
Dear Rudi,
A friend told me that you will have a special show on the 29th thanking sholdiers and veterans for their service. I wish to include my thanks. My husband is a disabled Navy veteran and my oldest son is currently serving his second hitch in the Navy, now stationed in Italy. Those who do not have a loved one in the Service do not realize the sacrifice they make being away from the comfort of home and their family. We should never forget the sacrifices they consciously and willingly take on behalf of all of us.  THANK YOU all soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, guardsmen, and all veterans! We love you.
Bonnie in Raleigh NC

June 29, 2009

Hi Rudi,
We so appreciate your efforts to recognize those who dedicate themselves to preserve our freedom. I have thought about our freedom on many occasions... I have come to the conclusion that it is a very simple privilege which requires a tremendous amount of energy and resources to preserve. The many little things we do every day that are not allowed in other societies are taken for granted by most of us. These little things are backed up by men and women who risk their lives every day to protect these liberties. While today we spend billions of dollars every year to train and equip military and law enforcement personnel, the lives that are lost far outweigh the materialistic perspectives of this task. These men and women who have given their lives, and those who have stood alongside of them are our real national treasure. The bravery of the American soldier is written in blood on battlefields all over the world. This blood is still flowing today, and I am in awe at the courage they continue to display while fighting this new version of war. The military as you know plays a vital role in protecting our rights as citizens in this country... they are in a new arena of violence never before seen in this country. Their enemy is well armed and organized... so I say HATS OFF to them for their courage and dedication to serve.
I am humbled when I encounter one who serves our country and by those who have so diligently served in the past. I am proud of all of them and know that I love them all. I have an uncle who served in the Pacific Campaign [in WWII]. He was a Marine in the fight for the Pacific Islands. I tell him often, "Thank you." Other members of my family have served in various branches of the Service... I was between wars and didn't serve, and it haunts me to this day that I cannot stand among them and say, "I'm one of you."
God bless them all and may their bravery and efforts to keep us free not go unnoticed or unappreciated. And thank you Rudi, for recognizing these heroes!
Frank Z in Pagosa Springs, CO


June 29, 2009
Rudi,
My name is Shelli G___ in Glendale AZ. My girlfriend emailed me and told me about your show To Thank A Soldier. I am sure the phone lines will fill up so I am sending this email. I want to thank all that Serve our country and also the families of those who Serve.  As an adult I don't know anyone personally that is in Service. My dad was when I was a baby, his father was on and off his deathbed, so my dad was shipped back and forth to be with his dad, and he never had to go to battle, but all of his friends did and they got pretty messed up in many different ways. As I sit in my house with my lovely family I thank God for all I have and I have to give thanks to all that Serve and defend this great country so that I am able to enjoy this wonderful live I live!
From the bottom of my heart, Thank You!
Shelli G in Glendale AZ

June 29, 2009
Rudi,
I would just like to take this time to thank our military past and present for defending our freedom, for leaving your loved ones so my loved ones will be safe. God bless you, may God keep you in His care and your families also.
God bless,
Beverly in Missouri

June 29, 2009
I would truly like to thank every one Serving us to protect us from terrorism. Thank You for putting your life in danger, for going far away from comfort and love, and for your days of hard service. We are so grateful.
Sincerely,
Arthur and Faith W in Marysville, Washington

June 29, 2009
Dear Rudi K,
After reading about this week's show I am ever so grateful for the opportunity to salute our Service men and women, and let them know Out Loud, up close and personal, how very much they are admired, honored, and appreciated!
Both of my parents Served in the military, my mother one of the irst Navy Waves, and my father in an Army intelligence unit. Like so many others in the Service of our country, our soldiers made many sacrifices so that the rest of us could continue to live, love, and prosper.  I would like to share a quote from John F. Kennedy:
     Let every nation know
     that we shall...
     bear any burden,
     meet any hardship,
     support any friend,
     oppose any foe,
     to assure the survival and success of Liberty.

Thank you for the opportunity to acknowledge and edify our gracious military Servicemen and women, past and present! I salute you, I honor you, and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for sacrificing all that you have so that I, a stranger to you, can live as I choose, in the Land That I Love.
PlaneOptymistk

June 29, 2009
Rudi,
Please convey to all your guests today my heartfelt thanks for giving part of their lives for this great country. I did give nine years, USAF, and proud of it. Never saw any real action, closest I ever came was a bar fight on Okinawa (I missed it, was fast on my feet and out the back door).  I was on alert for the missile crisis with Cuba, and all set to go for my country. It was cancelled before anyone went.
All too many Americans are not aware of the many men and women that gave everything they had, their lives, [during] WWII and the following wars, for the life we have in this great country. I'd be happy to answer any e-mail anyone may choose to send. God bless and protect you all. Thanks, Rudi.
John W., former USAF, in So Dakota and Minnesota

June 29, 2009
Dear Rudi,
I want to ask that you please tell all of our military men and women a huge Thank You for me. I appreciate their dedication and the sacrifices that they make and have made. I always pray for them daily in my prayers. God bless you all and God Bless America.
Sincerely,
Peggy W in Phoenix AZ

June 29, 2009
Dear Rudi,
As we prepare for Independence Day celebrations this weekend, I was thrilled to hear that you are dedicating today's show to the great men and women of the American Military. How very appropriate, and especially moving since the fight against terrorism is still going on, claiming lives of our Finest every day. For those who gave the Ultimate Sacrifice, I bow my head and weep. To those who have given or are in the process of giving years of their lives defending Freedom (whether on the front lines or not!) I salute you, I honor you, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.  Yours is one of the toughest jobs in our nation, yet you entered it voluntarily, willingly, wanting to help defend our country and freedom everywhere. May God bless every one of you is my prayer.
Susan W in Glendale AZ

June 29, 2009 [Edited for length]
Dear Rudi,
So many of us have had our lives changed because of wars. We can only pray that it will stop, but it is unlikely. I'd like to share with you a story of my brother-in-law, Larry S.   Larry's dreams were to become a professional golfer but those dreams were cut short. At the age of 19, just a kid, he and his life long friend were drafted into the Vietnam war together. Larry married my sister before leaving for Vietnam. One man came home safely, the other did not. Larry had stepped on a land mine and had half a leg blown off, and many fingers. He lived the rest of his life with horrible scars on both arms and shrapnel on his face, stomach, legs and arms. Larry continued to golf a little, but his leg continued to give him problems all his life. He never received any kind of counseling for his injuries or trauma that afflicted him for almost 10 years after returning home to the States. I remember my sister having to wake Larry up and she would do it only from some distance away by clapping her hands or poking him from a distance. That sounds horrible, but Larry would wake up with such violence that it was the only safe way. We will never know exactly what went through this young man's mind after being in a war at such a young age. Nevertheless, he and my sister raised two beautiful daughters and had two lovely grandchildren before he passed away at the age of 56, still too young to me.
I honor with the greatest respect all of the United States military. One of my friends taught me how to sign "Thank You" and "We love you" whenever I see a soldier in uniform. What in the world would we do withoug them. The United States is the safest country to live in and I love it.
Thank you so much for doing this show.
With great respect,
Suzanne W.


June 29, 2009
Dear Main Street Out Loud,
When it comes to your slogan, "If it touches you, it touches me," you have truly outdone yourself! Today's program with the four members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines was such a heart-warming, awe-inspiring and moving program. I am amazed at their candor, their humble spirits and devoted, patriotic lives. They have given, and continue to give the ultimate sacrifices... their lives for their country, for each and every one of us!
May we all continue to honor and support our troops, our warriors, and as your caller Susan so eloquently professed, these people are our Heroes, our warriors and may we never forget that they are our saviors! They defend the United States of America that we ALL may be free!
Heartfelt thanks for all who have served, those who continue to serve, and those who have fallen. You are incredible, and the epitome of Love and Devotion, and indeed you are our Heroes!
Bravo!
L. M., in Gilbert, AZ

June 29, 2009
Rudi,
I am glad you are still doing this. Cheers to you my friend. God bless our Troops, and Semper Fi!
Jonathan

June 29, 2009 [Edited for length]
Rudi,
Great show today! Those men and women cannot be told enough how much we appreciate what they do for this nation! Little story: I correspond with a Captain in Afghanistan. Last Saturday one of his men was killed when he was hit in the head with an RPG. He told me when he looks at the news, it seems people care more about Michael Jackson than about his young men dying out there. Now, I know he was upset over the young man's death and he was frustrated, but it is indicative to me of the pressure and stress these heroic men and women endure. I told him I knew MANY people who care -- you, for one, and that you were dedicating this show to thank the military. I think he was going to try to stream it but unfortunately your show comes on at 3:30 am in Kabul!
I am glad the man from VetTix [the Veteran Tickets Foundation] was there on your show today. I am a member of the Patriot Guard and I see them offering tickets to veterans all the time when we go out. I think it is fabulous!
Rudi, thank you for thanking them. They all need to hear what you had to say... and like Susan said, I wish I could hug them all and personally thank them... but we got the next best thing today!
Nikki C in Glendale AZ

May 28, 2009
Dear Rudi,
I liked the commentary! [May 27, 2009 Essay: Propane Rip Off - Less in the Tank, More in Their Bank]  Great article. It really galls me how their thinking is so convoluted that they think giving you 15 pounds versus 20 pounds for the same price is keeping the price the same... They must've really flunked math in elementary school, or else they really, really, really think we are stupid. And Chris Hartley and his cohorts don't really think we are STUPID, do they???
SLW in Arizona

May 05, 2009
Dear Rudi K,
What a great radio program you had yesterday, May 4, 2009.
I was touched by your enthusiasm, the points well taken regarding:
    -the football stadium and improvements versus the increasing tuition for students;
    -the politician who has recently changed party affiliation after 29 years 
     to improve his chances of re-election;
    -the encouragement to research the candidates and topics prior to voting,
     not to just follow the R or D affiliated with it.
I read a quote that touched my heart referring to Courage. I share it with you because it reminds me that you not only share your knowledge, your passion for the topics you cover, but you inspire us, your listeners, to have the courage to act, to speak up, to research, to learn, and to LIVE, not simply exist.
     "To dream anything that you want to dream, that is the beauty of the human mind.
      To do anything that you want to do, that is the strength of the human will.
      To trust yourself, to test your limits, that is the courage to succeed."

                                                                      --Bernard Edmonds
I have discussed some of your topics and information with co-workers, and from that three young people have registered to vote!  They not only seem to be more caring, but now feel that they have a voice!
Thank you for all that you do,
Plane [sic] Inspired in Gilbert, AZ

March 05, 2009
Re: March 4th Essay, "Mortgage Parachute Denies Equal Opportunity"
Rudi,
I read your essay and have to say: YOU have really done your homework.  It was great, a lot scary for most, but really great.  I thoroughly enjoyed the way you laid it out because it was like a question and REAL-answer session.  Informative and a truth that many won't want to look at.
Great writing.
"R" in California

February 23, 2009
You tell 'em, Rudi! Let's hear it for informed choices, but personally I agree with you, not photographing/ticketing people till they are 20-odd miles OVER the speed limit has the net effect of simply raising the speed limit by that amount! It's ridiculous. My opinion: The cameras should be HIDDEN and should take the photos at 5 mph over. Nobody wants Big Brother, but this bit of warning, warning, warning is going too far when everybody agrees that simply adhering to the speed limit reduces accidents and saves lives. If they want to raise the speed limit, just DO it rather than give so many warnings that "You will get a ticket if you do 20 or 25 miles OVER the limit." That's just stupid, as my 95 year old aunt would say.
Susan W.
Glendale AZ


February 09, 2009
Rudi K,
I don't have the words to tell you the appreciation I feel for your broadcast. I work in a very real world with very real consequences and I see it every day, however I trust our government to do their job -- thank you for inspiring me to get involved. Your message today was powerful and the most REAL hour of my day.
Thank you.
Rosan K.
San Diego, CA

February 09, 2009
Rudi, Rudi, Rudi, that was AMAZING.
Alma B.
San Diego, CA

January 13, 2009
Dear Rudi,
I'm really starting to get depressed! Some days I think Main Street should just rise up. It's not taxation without representation - it's taxation IN SPITE OF representation. I just don't know how they expect to get that kind of money from us taxpayers, our children, and our children's children.
I listen [to Main Street Out Loud] every week, and we agree on most stuff. There's a couple of things we don't agree on, but that's what keeps it interesting. I listen at work so it is hard for me to call in -- but it seems what's harder is for me NOT to call in!  I enjoy the show! Keep up the good work!
Nikki
P.S.  I thought I would fall out of my chair when you said we probably won't get kissed the next time either!


December 20, 2008
Dear Rudi,
Main Street Outloud is such a great program. It might not always follow my thoughts, and yet it intrigues me. It broadens my perception of the world, and allows me to think about other points of view, or being involved in the lives of others. Thank you for your inspiration and passion for Life.
“The great thing in this world is not so much where you stand,  as in what direction you are moving. “
                                                    - Oliver Wendell Holmes
Sincerely,
LM


December 16, 2008
Rudi,
Your show is very good and gives a lot of information that should warrant opinions.  Although you touched on many subjects yesterday, I will choose one to comment on which is the Speed Cameras.
If you are a driver, and unaware of these Speed Cameras, I think you could quite easily have an accident and I'm wondering just how many people already have had accidents.
My daughter and I were driving in an area one afternoon and very unaware of  "The Speed Cameras" when all of a sudden we see everyone slamming on their breaks, tail-lights shining brightly.  Thinking there must be an accident up ahead we very quickly slowed down as well, only to find that everyone started speeding up again.  We traveled a little further and once again, everyone slammed on their breaks, which was scary, because you have to have a quick reaction to people traveling at higher speeds and then seeing tail-lights all of a sudden.  This continued for several miles, until we finally realized it was speed cameras.  We didn't know what they were and I remember laughing at my daughter calling them "those what-cha-ma-callits".  After realizing the what-cha-ma-callits were speed cameras, we did like everyone else.  We sped up when we passed them and slowed down we approached them. 
After ending the section of road that was covered with speed cameras, I came to the conclusion that it was ridiculous to spend so much of our taxes on these contraptions that are certainly not working at all.  People are speeding through these areas, then slow down to get past the cameras and speed back up again.  My personal opinion is that the cameras are very dangerous, they are not doing what they were designed to do and should be removed.
Suz
Queen Creek, AZ

REPLY FROM RUDI:
Suz, thanks for writing.  I have heard many people express the same concerns and resentments over these cameras.  Read my commentary on the camera issue and you will readily understand where I stand.  There is one thing that continues to bother me ever since I read your email.  It is this:  Please tell me that you stayed within the legal limits of the posted speed limit when you were beyond the cameras.  You stated that the other drivers would brake before the cameras and speed up after the cameras---but, within the speed limit, right?  I do not advocate breaking the law simply because it is inconvenient to follow the law or because we are pretty sure 'we can get away with it'. A thief that goes undetected is as much a thief as the one that gets caught. 
Here is a suggestion:  Clock yourself for a distance driving with the brake-and-speed-up technique and then travel the same distance at a consistent speed, legal and reasonable to traffic conditions (under identical conditions of time and day of the week) and let me know how you did on time and gas mileage.  You have to try it for at least 20 miles.  You should find that you not only saved time and money, but you don't have that knot in your stomach for being the featured motorist on 'Candid Speed Camera'.  It is always healthier to smile because you are happy----not because you want a decent booking photo. 

December 1, 2008
I happened to listen to your broadcast this afternoon and found myself wishing it were longer.  I am not your everyday talk-show junkie, mostly because I find the hosts to be intimidating, insulting and only responsive if you are in agreement with their particular views.
Your conservative slant on America "main street," intrigued me.  It is so commonplace to complain about the current state of this "recession," but almost every one of us expects something to be done by others.  Magically, voices should be heard, but those that complain the loudest are meek and silent in their much too busy worlds to bother to make a difference.
Thank you for speaking out loud about the subjects that are caught in most American's throats regarding the duplicity of the financial giants and their part in the bleeding of American dollars.
Main Street Out Loud is a breath of fresh [air] and a lot of reality.
Thank you.
A Former Zonie
[listening from California]
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