Try This Clever Way to Trace Your Family History

Pauline Phillips, the writer behind the "Dear Abby" column, for 60-plus years, died Wednesday. One of her memorable responses was included in this New York Times news story:

Dear Abby:
I have always wanted to have my family history traced, but I can’t afford to spend a lot of money to do it. Have you any suggestions? — M. J. B. in Oakland, Calif.

Dear M. J. B.:
Yes. Run for a public office.

Here's a link to the story: Dear Abby writer dies at 94