November 4 - the change?

[FPSHOT]

OK well it is bound to happen, who will become the Next American Top President.

Since half the world is talking about it - the other half don't even know it is going on - maybe it is good to share some views?

I know some US people wonder why "foreigners" are so interested, well to those I would suggest a little update on where the world is since 1963, but maybe we can share some views and thoughts?

Will Obama be able to bring that change?

Will McCain be able to win back his loss which was predictable? Is he even fit well enough for the job and what if he falls back for some reason, does the US realise who will take his place then?

[FPSHOT]

OK let me say this about the issues I think are important for those in the US

Health Care and Insurance I believe is a major issue. I can really not believe your system. It is so amateuristic for a nation as large as the US.

I very much hope that issue will be solved now or at least get better. The McCain solution to me is no solution.

I know Hillary Clinton has been working on this for so long so since she is in Obama's circle maybe she will be able to add her knowledge to a good solution for all of you.

[sourmilkpinky]

who will become the Next American Top President.


It is sad to me but that just about hits the nail on the head. This election indeed feel more like 'American Idol' or 'America's Top Model' rather than a Presidential election............. certainly not the change I would like to see.

Oh, and I totally disagree with your take on the Health Care situation. Can I vote to abolish the medical profession as a whole?

[Blackguard]

Thanks for your opinions FP, they're just that your opinions. Besides that they have no value to anyone besides you.
I know Hillary Clinton has been working on this for so long so since she is in Obama's circle maybe she will be able to add her knowledge to a good solution for all of you. Hillary Clinton is an egotistical fool. and best not listened to.

[FPSHOT]

Oh, and I totally disagree with your take on the Health Care situation. Can I vote to abolish the medical profession as a whole?

Interesting view !! :smile1:

of course you can and in a way I am glad you disagree.

[Blackguard]

OK let me say this about the issues I think are important for those in the US
A foreinger, like Robert Young, knows best. FP you are really starting to go way to far.

[FPSHOT]

A foreinger, like Robert Young, knows best. FP you are really starting to go way to far.

You probably read this with a totally negative attitude...as always...

I am simply trying to start a conversation out of interest. The fact you do not understand that is your problem dude.

[sourmilkpinky]

Interesting view !! :smile1:

of course you can and in a way I am glad you disagree.

I am curious to know why you think McCain's solution is not a solution.

To clarify my position :wink2:

In my opinion 'we' are an overmedicated, over-tested society. One of the scariest things that I have heard Obama say is that he fully supports 'preventative medicine'. What is that? Eat right, exercise...and take medication. I don't believe that everyone is entitled or wants this. I know I don't believe the government should be in charge or determining who gets/pays for this. It is just scary to me.

edited because FPSHOT has me ranting now ;)

'Preventative Medicine'........ just what are we trying to prevent? death? seriously?

[Magill]

I know some US people wonder why "foreigners" are so interested, well to those I would suggest a little update on where the world is since 1963, but maybe we can share some views and thoughts?

Let me ask you this. Will the outcome of this American, and I repeat, American election affect your day to day life over there in Holland? Do you pride yourself on being a non-resident alien (yes, that *is* the technical term--don't shoot the messenger!) and if so, please feel free to start paying some good ol' American taxes, eh? And, if not, I suggest you worry about what's going on in your own government. We are confused enough about who to vote for without you adding insult to injury.

Enough said. And I do understand the spirit behind this thread. And I think it's really uncalled for. There is already an active thread about the election. I'll be glad when it's all over on the November 5th! Of course, I'm sure you'll find more to ridicule us Americans about. :rolleyes:

[Blackguard]

Let me ask you this. Will the outcome of this American, and I repeat, American election affect your day to day life over there in Holland? Do you pride yourself on being a non-resident alien (yes, that *is* the technical term--don't shoot the messenger!) and if so, please feel free to start paying some good ol' American taxes, eh? And, if not, I suggest you worry about what's going on in your own government. We are confused enough about who to vote for without you adding insult to injury.

Enough said. And I do understand the spirit behind this thread. And I think it's really uncalled for. There is already an active thread about the election. I'll be glad when it's all over on the November 5th! Of course, I'm sure you'll find more to ridicule us Americans about. :rolleyes:

Yeah... What She Said. Or something like it.

[Legs]

Enough said. And I do understand the spirit behind this thread. And I think it's really uncalled for. There is already an active thread about the election. I'll be glad when it's all over on the November 5th! Of course, I'm sure you'll find more to ridicule us Americans about. :rolleyes:

I can't see what's wrong with starting this thread, and why it would be uncalled for. A bit of an overreaction I think.

[Magill]

I'll bet you overreact when someone rubs salt in your wounds. It's crunch time! And I know many Americans, like myself, that are abandoning their right to vote because both candidates are truly quite scary on many of the important issues at hand.

[beatlebangs1964]

I find it interesting, refreshing and enlightening to hear the view points of people from other countries.

I am a democrat who has been actively campaigning for Obama all year. He came to town early this year and I was one of the lucky volunteers who got to see him. He is an incredible personality; everybody who was present will agree that the electric excitement in the air was palpable.

Of the candidates, I believe Barack Obama is the most promising and I honestly believe he will make an excellent Commander in Chief.

[FPSHOT]

Let me ask you this. Will the outcome of this American, and I repeat, American election affect your day to day life over there in Holland?


I did not mean any unfriendly conversation with this thread but since you are your usual self in the way you respond - which is quite sad - ok fine, if I need to explain something which is common knowledge here we go;

yes Magill, the outcome of this election will directly affect my life, even in Holland, but also wherever I live my life.

You do not seem to be aware of the worldwide economic links - let me rephrase that to the word Money - which still are often based on what goes on in the US. Not even so much as Wall Street but also because many Dutch companies invest in the US and work in the US and visa versa many US companies work in Europe and Holland like I was an employee for many years of an American Company.

You may have heard there is an economic crisis going on in the world which costs Billions of Dollars and costs thousands of people their job and the main cause is...the US.

I personally have already a very huge negative impact on my investments thanks to all this which may seem non important to you bit since I run a company and a family that has impact and thanks to the crisis if I would have to make money from that todayt I will have lost a huuuge amount of money.

So.... your usual sarcastic comments again are hitting ground a lot. Thanks, I really needed those insults, but the fact you make a habit of them makes them having little impact. I have plenty of reason to feel included in what is gonna happen.

So that is reason one.

Reason two is the 'fact' that the US is the major party in a few wars. Iraq is a terrible mistake filled with lies and the Afghanistan region is even the worse.

Holland is involved in that directly and it can affect my personal life yes because the terrorism issue also involved Holland and we have had many incidents here thanks to ....

The city where I live has had quite some terrorist situations, so yes it does very well affect my life and that of many others.

So the change of President directly has affect on the situation in the world. If you do not understand that, then ...well...that is just your unawareness of what goes on in the world.

Reason three is simply that 'everyone' in the world is interested in who becomes the new President for the US. If you do not see that or understand that, maybe pick up some news?

[Legs]

I'll bet you overreact when someone rubs salt in your wounds. It's crunch time! And I know many Americans, like myself, that are abandoning their right to vote because both candidates are truly quite scary on many of the important issues at hand.

Who is rubbing salt in who's wounds? This is just a discusion about the elections. Don't turn it into something else.

[FPSHOT]

I'll bet you overreact when someone rubs salt in your wounds.
what wounds?

I really believe you have no idea what is going on in the world, but...that is only my personal opinion and only that and...... well all the rest what BG normally adds.

[FPSHOT]

In my opinion 'we' are an overmedicated, over-tested society. One of the scariest things that I have heard Obama say is that he fully supports 'preventative medicine'. What is that? Eat right, exercise...and take medication. I don't believe that everyone is entitled or wants this. I know I don't believe the government should be in charge or determining who gets/pays for this. It is just scary to me.

I believe you have an issue there which I very much agree on. Over-medicated, too much therapists..maybe that is what you mean?

[Magill]

You may have heard there is an economic crisis going on in the world which costs Billions of Dollars and costs thousands of people their job and the main cause is...the US.
I personally have already a very huge negative impact on my investments thanks to all this which may seem non important to you bit since I run a company and a family that has impact and thanks to the crisis if I would have to make money from that todayt I will have lost a huuuge amount of money.

Ok. So you're a wealthy Dutchman that has investments on Wall Street. I'm sure you don't speak for many of your own countrymen that probably invest within their own country to strengthen the Euro dollar. No, I am not an economist. Never will I claim to be. But don't you dare be condescending with me about the state of the American economy! I have enough worries about my 401K investment. So, bite me! :angry1:

[PaulisMine]

"Preventative care" is when you are able to take your child (or yourself) in to the doctor if you are running a fever, or something is wrong with your stomach, or whatever, and you can actually go to the doctor before it gets any worse. Before it turns into pneumonia, before you have a seizure and a brain anyerism that kills you. It is being able to have regular check ups, such as pap smears to detect cancer early and be able to treat it before it kills you.
Most people in the US that do not have medical care are forced to use emergency rooms for "basic" treatment that could be taken care of in a doctor's office. This increases costs for EVERYONE, even those who do not have health insurance, because taxpayers as a whole end up supplementing emergency rooms to keep their doors open. It is a HUGE problem in the US. 47 million people here do not have health insurance, so yeah, it affects every single person in the US, IMO.

Now, as far as a change... I don't know. I just don't know. I voted early, I'll be watching, but as far as what will actually be accomplished, its difficult to predict.

[Jerry]

I'm glad this will all be over in a day. It's not really doing anybody any good if we start attacking each other. Have your own opinion, shout it out loud if you want, but let's just relax a little here.

[FPSHOT]

Ok. So you're a wealthy Dutchman that has investments on Wall Street. I'm sure you don't speak for many of your own countrymen that probably invest within their own country to strengthen the Euro dollar. No, I am not an economist. Never will I claim to be. But don't you dare be condescending with me about the state of the American economy! I have enough worries about my 401K investment. So, bite me! :angry1:

No I am far far from being a wealthy Dutchman and I have no investments on Wall Street.

oh well, if you don't understand any of what I say then end of story, good luck, but it is not about money.

[FPSHOT]

"Preventative care" is when you are able to take your child (or yourself) in to the doctor if you are running a fever, or something is wrong with your stomach, or whatever, and you can actually go to the doctor before it gets any worse. Before it turns into pneumonia, before you have a seizure and a brain anyerism that kills you. It is being able to have regular check ups, such as pap smears to detect cancer early and be able to treat it before it kills you.
Most people in the US that do not have medical care are forced to use emergency rooms for "basic" treatment that could be taken care of in a doctor's office. This increases costs for EVERYONE, even those who do not have health insurance, because taxpayers as a whole end up supplementing emergency rooms to keep their doors open. It is a HUGE problem in the US. 47 million people here do not have health insurance, so yeah, it affects every single person in the US, IMO.

this is indeed what I referred to.

Out here in tiny Holland - as in many many other countries - you simply go to the dr for things like you describe and you never have to worry about the payment or even the frequency of visits because it all taken care of within the Health Insurance plan.

[Asha]

I think it's sad that another political thread just had to be started here. We've had political threads here on Links & they almost always turn sour... over & over. Too bad we feel we need to have another thread like this.

To the fellow Americans on here... we know what state our country is in. We know how incredibly scary every election year is. We each have our hopes things will get better. Let's just hope that whoever it is that enters the office in January can help us all come together to make this country an awesome place once again. Because it's not really up to whoever is in the Oval Office anyway. It's up to us! It's not just about Election Year. It's about each & every day.

Peace!

[PaulisMine]

I think that's the way to go, I don't care if it's considered "Socialism" or whatever scary word people use to describe it. (I don't find socialism to be a scary word, myself, but many in the US do...) I believe that health care is a RIGHT and not a priveledge.

[Asha]

I think that's the way to go, I don't care if it's considered "Socialism" or whatever scary word people use to describe it. (I don't find socialism to be a scary word, myself, but many in the US do...) I believe that health care is a RIGHT and not a priveledge.

As far has health care goes, I'd like to see more preventative things be allowed as well, PiM. It's sad that the US often waits until it's almost too late to do various things... including saving lives.

[FPSHOT]

I think it's sad that another political thread just had to be started here. We've had political threads here on Links & they almost always turn sour... over & over. Too bad we feel we need to have another thread like this.

To the fellow Americans on here... we know what state our country is in. We know how incredibly scary every election year is. We each have our hopes things will get better. Let's just hope that whoever it is that enters the office in January can help us all come together to make this country an awesome place once again. Because it's not really up to whoever is in the Oval Office anyway. It's up to us! It's not just about Election Year. It's about each & every day.

Peace!

Well, no problem, the message seems clear. "Stay out of it"

Fine with me, if you do not know what goes on in the world, that is maybe a pity or maybe not.

Adios and good luck.

[FPSHOT]

To the fellow Americans on here...

I really hope some day you will understand the bad and horrid meaning of those words....in connection to the paragraph before you said this.

Unbelievable.

[Legs]

I still see nothing wrong with posting this thread.
It's a shame that it is taken wrong early on.
But there are some interesting things to discuss here, if we would just do that then there shouldn't be a problem with yet another political thread.

Everyone should vote ofcourse looking at their own situation, and think what's best for them. I understand that's dificult, and that that people outside of the U.S. won't have to think about what they vote for. But it would be naive to think that whatever goes on in the U.S. doesn't have an impact on the rest in the world, and that there shouldn't be any interest in U.S. politics from outside people.

It's an uncertain situation, wheter it really feel be better under Obama if choisen remains to be seen. But can we really expect a drastic change when McCain becomes president? And with that I also refer to the situation world wide including the credit crisis, which doesn't effect the rich, but also small companies world wide and in turn people working there.

[Magill]

oh well, if you don't understand any of what I say then end of story, good luck, but it is not about money.
You're right. It's hard to understand a person that talks out of both sides of his mouth. Ever thought of going into politics, yourself? Think of it. You'd fit in quite perfectly and with even get to rub elbows with the likes of Hillary C., your hero. :teeth1:

[Lucy]

I am interested to see what the outcome of the election will be and I have my own personal hopes on who I want to win. But I'm not going to comment or chime in with anything other than that. I don't feel that it is my place.

[Lucy]

Adios and good luck.

I really hope some day you will understand the bad and horrid meaning of those words....in connection to the paragraph before you said this.

Unbelievable.

woooooooooooo! Chill out!!!!

[FPSHOT]

You're right. It's hard to understand a person that talks out of both sides of his mouth. Ever thought of going into politics, yourself? Think of it. You'd fit in quite perfectly and with even get to rub elbows with the likes of Hillary C., your hero. :teeth1:

bla bla bla bla

I will ignore this insult too, but it says a lot about yourself Magill. This is so sad. Just a simple thread about politics.

[Legs]

Yes we all hope for the best.
Whatever side we're on.

I am interested to see what the outcome of the election will be and I have my own personal hopes on who I want to win. But I'm not going to comment or chime in with anything other than that. I don't feel that it is my place.

[VersusBatman]

As far has health care goes, I'd like to see more preventative things be allowed as well, PiM. It's sad that the US often waits until it's almost too late to do various things... including saving lives.
I know what you mean. To my family dental care is a luxury. As bad as it sounds, we only go when there is an emergency like a toothache. It's a sad thing when you have to choose between buying food or utility bills or a dental plan. We have aplied for CHIP, but it isn't in effect yet.

Personally, i don't feel right about either candidate. I may just write in a vote.

[Magill]

I am interested to see what the outcome of the election will be and I have my own personal hopes on who I want to win. But I'm not going to comment or chime in with anything other than that. I don't feel that it is my place.
I respect your opinion and anyone else's about this election. In fact, I even saw an online poll taken all over the world of who they should win the election. I found it quite interesting. But to be so tenacious and insatiable about the subject especially when it has no real effect to you personally, is really quite sad. I believe you should tend to your own backyard and not wonder about what the other guy is doing in his. I mean, this is what, the 5th thread related to this election? Ridiculous! :rolleyes:

[Magill]

I think that's the way to go, I don't care if it's considered "Socialism" or whatever scary word people use to describe it. (I don't find socialism to be a scary word, myself, but many in the US do...) I believe that health care is a RIGHT and not a priveledge.
I agree with much of this. But Obama's socialized healthcare ideals, kind of scares me. I know Canada has had it that way for many years. I'm just rather skittish about having it here. I know Clinton really pushed for it, but it never got passed the floor. I see it this way. The government already has too many fingers in the cookie jar. Where do we draw the line? We're going to be giving up so much and be at the mercy of an already corrupt government. Yikes! :help:

[Asha]

Well, no problem, the message seems clear. "Stay out of it"

Fine with me, if you do not know what goes on in the world, that is maybe a pity or maybe not.

Adios and good luck.

Oh once again, I must explain myself. haha

I never said to "stay out of it". Everyone is free to reread my post to see what I wrote. I was saying that I don't understand why a topic, which is known to cause tension on a specific forum, needs to be brought up over & over. That doesn't mean "stay out", it means, why does someone insist on causing tension on a forum. & you, of all people, Mr Mod. I would think a mod could have some class on a forum.

I was not talking about what I know of the world. I'm talking about what I know of the USA & what's happening within our borders. I wasn't attacking anyone outside the USA, so I'm sorry if offense was taken by anyone. When I talk to other Americans (sorry, again, if you take offense to not being included in my second paragraph), it's interesting that they seem to understand me just fine. & what I was saying here, is for us to work together to make our country a good place for us to live in.

For the people who don't live in the USA, please feel free to do what you can to make your own countries a good place to live in. But ours is in need of some work & I don't really see how a Dutchman (or British or even a Canadian or anyone at this point) can actually make a change in our day to day life here. It was not an attack on anyone outside of the US. I have nothing against the rest of the world & embrace global things.

Sorry. I hope you don't all read my post the way FPSHOT did.

[Asha]

I still see nothing wrong with posting this thread.
It's a shame that it is taken wrong early on.
But there are some interesting things to discuss here, if we would just do that then there shouldn't be a problem with yet another political thread.

Everyone should vote ofcourse looking at their own situation, and think what's best for them. I understand that's dificult, and that that people outside of the U.S. won't have to think about what they vote for. But it would be naive to think that whatever goes on in the U.S. doesn't have an impact on the rest in the world, and that there shouldn't be any interest in U.S. politics from outside people.

It's an uncertain situation, wheter it really feel be better under Obama if choisen remains to be seen. But can we really expect a drastic change when McCain becomes president? And with that I also refer to the situation world wide including the credit crisis, which doesn't effect the rich, but also small companies world wide and in turn people working there.

Oh Legs, I don't mind such a thread, but it would just be nice if things could be discussed. It's a tough subject for some, obviously. Politics is often very hard for some people. I just don't like to see people getting all upset about things. That's all & this subject has been discussed on Links already this year.

& of course it's true that what does happen in the US affects the rest of the world. Probably more so than some other countries. So I completely understand why the world is watching. It makes complete sense. I'm sure the rest of the world is on pins & needles as we are. Very true!

Your concern with smaller companies & lower income families is such a true one! It's one of the reasons US politics is so touchy here. They leave it to the poor to vote, but what we have to choose from is based on the rich. So, how do the poor really get a say? It's already been semi chosen for us. It's why some of us get frustrated. & we try to make the best choice, but we still never know how it will turn out. It's terrible.

But whatever does happen, I hope the US will do better & that it can also help the rest of the world to do better. It's the hope of most Americans. Believe me! We don't like our current state of affairs much.

[Asha]

I agree with much of this. But Obama's socialized healthcare ideals, kind of scares me. I know Canada has had it that way for many years. I'm just rather skittish about having it here. I know Clinton really pushed for it, but it never got passed the floor. I see it this way. The government already has too many fingers in the cookie jar. Where do we draw the line? We're going to be giving up so much and be at the mercy of an already corrupt government. Yikes! :help:

Maybe it wouldn't be a complete socialization? I mean, many countries have socialized healthcare, but that doesn't mean they're all the same. Maybe we can come up with something which offers everyone a fair break at getting the healthcare they need, not just the rich. Maybe "socialized medicine" is just a bad term? :laugh5:

[FPSHOT]

Sorry. I hope you don't all read my post the way FPSHOT did.

very funny...sorry you again missed the boat. You and some others probably missed this, but the world is in many ways depending on who is the President of the (non) United States, especially now.

As long as you can not understand that you can sarcasm me as much as you like but it shows a lot.

[Magill]

Maybe it wouldn't be a complete socialization? I mean, many countries have socialized healthcare, but that doesn't mean they're all the same. Maybe we can come up with something which offers everyone a fair break at getting the healthcare they need, not just the rich. Maybe "socialized medicine" is just a bad term? :laugh5:

How does that saying go? "You're always afraid of the evil you don't know"..?
:laugh5: I guess that's just my position on it. I don't know. It's true that maybe a total facelift on our existing MCO's (Managed Care Organizations) is in order. My fear is leaving it in control of of the government. I just wish we could go back to the old days before managed care when doctors and hospitals didn't charge exorbinant amounts for services and you just made payments. if needed. I think the cost for delivering a baby in the 1950's was something crazy like $200.00 and they just made payments. I remember my Mom telling me that. Sometimes I really think I was born in the wrong era. :laugh5:

Someone mentioned dental.. Ugh! Don't get me started on that. BG and I have two separate dental plans and *still* are paying for last year's dental services for the three of us. It's crazy how much *isn't* covered by insurance. If having dental is a priveledge then I think we're doing something wrong here. :thinker: You'd think whatever carrier A wouldn't cover that carrier B pick up. *sigh* Not so. :sad3:

[Asha]

very funny...sorry you again missed the boat. You and some others probably missed this, but the world is in many ways depending on who is the President of the (non) United States, especially now.

As long as you can not understand that you can sarcasm me as much as you like but it shows a lot.

No, I do understand that. I understand that very well. Why is it so hard to believe that Americans can possibly understand it (or anything for that matter). As I already mentioned to Legs, I know it has an affect on the rest of the world. Be calm, Rob. Read the posts calmly so you can absorb what is being said.

You brought up the topic that you know has upset people on this forum in the past, & then you act surprised when some are upset. Why do you take it personal when they simply post a reply? Did you think you could post a thread on this subject & not see the replies from some that you do feel strongly about all this? Why are you taking offense to everything posted here? You started the thread & why are you surprised it goes any way other than what this topic has gone in the past? If you're upset, you did this to yourself.

& before you say you don't take it personal, explain to me why you think I'm being sarcastic to you as you just stated above? I RARELY am sarcastic & if I am, it's in joke & there will be a smiley like this one ---> :laugh5: Believe me, there is nothing sarcastic that I've posted in this thread. I'm simply & calmly replying to the thread.

[Asha]

How does that saying go? "You're always afraid of the evil you don't know"..?
:laugh5: I guess that's just my position on it. I don't know. It's true that maybe a total facelift on our existing MCO's (Managed Care Organizations) is in order. My fear is leaving it in control of of the government. I just wish we could go back to the old days before managed care when doctors and hospitals didn't charge exorbinant amounts for services and you just made payments. if needed. I think the cost for delivering a baby in the 1950's was something crazy like $200.00 and they just made payments. I remember my Mom telling me that. Sometimes I really think I was born in the wrong era. :laugh5:

Someone mentioned dental.. Ugh! Don't get me started on that. BG and I have two separate dental plans and *still* are paying for last year's dental services for the three of us. It's crazy how much *isn't* covered by insurance. If having dental is a priveledge then I think we're doing something wrong here. :thinker: You'd think whatever carrier A wouldn't cover that carrier B pick up. *sigh* Not so. :sad3:

Oh I agree! I wouldn't like the government to be in complete control of anything! They make a big enough mess already!!! :laugh5::laugh5::laugh5:

Yeah, I love how we pay for insurance, but nothings seems to be covered by it. Just a bunch of companies we hand over money to without a product! :bigeyes3:

[VersusBatman]

One thing I hope that happens, is the food prices will resolve somehow. It's ridiculous that basic staples are getting expensive.

[Asha]

One thing I hope that happens, is the food prices will resolve somehow. It's ridiculous that basic staples are getting expensive.

& the ones that haven't gone up in price have just gone down to smaller packaging! haha! Like we won't notice!!! Heck, even Americans think Americans are stupid! Good thing I know how to swim!!! :teeth1:

[Legs]

I think it's not completely fair to put all the blame on Rob.
It might have helped if others also read this and previous threads calmly in the first place also before replying. It seems that those who have a problem with this thread because it turned negative the last time are those who started insulting Rob and making these problems in the first place. I find that a bit strange to say the least.

I don't think the intention of this and prevous thread was to upset anyone or to make problems. It's those who make problems that are having problems.

[PaulisMine]

I don't mind a fight, "politics ain't beanbags" as they say... but, uh, if you're in the US and you CAN vote and you don't? Really, STFU.

[Asha]

I think it's not completely fair to put all the blame on Rob.
It might have helped if others also read this and previous threads calmly in the first place also before replying. It seems that those who have a problem with this thread because it turned negative the last time are those who started insulting Rob and making these problems in the first place. I find that a bit strange to say the least.

I don't think the intention of this and prevous thread was to upset anyone or to make problems. It's those who make problems that are having problems.

It would be nice if everyone could read it calmly, but since the topic has gotten out of hand before, it was just sad that the topic had to be brought up again. I'm not blaming Rob for previous threads. I'm talking about this one. Does that make sense, Legs?

Insults are bad regardless of who & where they come from, it's true. I hate to see them. I haven't been intentionally insulting in this thread. I'm just asking why this all had to be brought up again & since Rob brought it up, yes, I was asking him.

Again, I don't think people are trying to make a problem here. I think this is a very touchy subject for some & perhaps some others are tired of talking about it. It's hard to be struggling people in a messed up country, yet the world is asking you to save the world & you don't really have the power to do it. It's hard to explain.

[Asha]

I don't mind a fight, "politics ain't beanbags" as they say... but, uh, if you're in the US and you CAN vote and you don't? Really, STFU.

:laugh5::laugh5::laugh5: I really think you should say what you mean! It really bothers me that you NEVER do that! :laugh5::laugh5::laugh5:

[PaulisMine]

LOL!
I've long thought the US should go the way of the AUssies and fine people who don't vote! They get 98% turnout regularly!!

[Legs]

I understand, but I still feel the thread has been taken wrong from the begining. And some strong words has been said against Rob, and I just think it's not right to just single him out.

Some interesting points has been made here tho, so it's posible to have a good discusion about politics, so this thread is not completly wasted and uncalled for.

I understand that people are in an dificult position. And as I said earlier, everyone should look at his or her situation before voting. It's hard enough to decide without looking at the broader picture.

It would be nice if everyone could read it calmly, but since the topic has gotten out of hand before, it was just sad that the topic had to be brought up again. I'm not blaming Rob for previous threads. I'm talking about this one. Does that make sense, Legs?

Insults are bad regardless of who & where they come from, it's true. I hate to see them. I haven't been intentionally insulting in this thread. I'm just asking why this all had to be brought up again & since Rob brought it up, yes, I was asking him.

Again, I don't think people are trying to make a problem here. I think this is a very touchy subject for some & perhaps some others are tired of talking about it. It's hard to be struggling people in a messed up country, yet the world is asking you to save the world & you don't really have the power to do it. It's hard to explain.

[Magill]

LOL!
I've long thought the US should go the way of the AUssies and fine people who don't vote! They get 98% turnout regularly!!
Sure. Tons of people in a voting booth, flipping a coin to choose. Nice. :rolleyes: If there was a "none of the above" option, I would definitely be there! :laugh5:

[PaulisMine]

Honestly, I don't care if people vote or don't vote, I just don't think that people that don't bother to vote should complain about the way things are going in their respective countries, is all. There are third party candidates as well as a write in option when you vote.

[twovirgins]

http://aftermathnews.files.wordpress.com/2007/09/ron-paul-presidential.jpg

[Asha]

Sure. Tons of people in a voting booth, flipping a coin to choose. Nice. :rolleyes: If there was a "none of the above" option, I would definitely be there! :laugh5:

You could always vote for Mickey Mouse! :laugh5:

[darkhorse23]

I'll stay out of the "debate" here as far as interjecting an opinion on McC or O. As someone pointed out, you can vote 3rd party (like Barr-Libertarian) or write-in (Tom Tancredo R-CO, which is who I voted for in 2004 also).

However, don't be short-sighted. There are many local elections that probably will have a more immediate and bigger impact in your lives than the presidential election.

Here in AZ, my district has a hotly contended race for US House. We also need to re-elect our Maricopa County supervisor to ensure that our sheriff gets the funding he needs as well as County Attorney to follow up on the sheriff's arrests.

We have several (about 8-9 or so) propositions to vote on regarding issues like property taxes (I will vote FOR freezing the rate), hiring illegal aliens (I will vote AGAINST the measure to weaken toughest law in the US), gay marriage (I will vote FOR marriage being defined as being between a man-woman ) and other issues as well.

Don't be turned off by the piss poor choices for president. There is life outside of the White House.

Thank you. I hope I stayed relatively civil.

[VersusBatman]

I found this. The Obama part cracked me up the most.

http://video.google.com/videosearch?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1T4GGIH_enUS212US212&q=jib+jab+obama+mccain&um=1&sa=X&oi=video_result_group&resnum=4&ct=title#

[Rellevart]

Wow, take a half a day off and you're all sniping at each other. Please feel free to discuss the election, who you support or don't and why, but please, no more ragging on each other, no more cheap shots, no more deliberately misunderstanding what others are saying. I mean it.

[GirlWithKaleidoscopeEyes]

My first election (and quite an exciting one)! Just sent in my absentee ballot today...and had to pay $16.50 to get it to the clerk's office by tomorrow (which is really all my fault, because I should have figured things out earlier; first time voting+using an absentee ballot+registering to vote by mail+Michigan=confusing).

I enjoy discussing political/social issues, but I hate how it often devolves into fighting...diversity of political views is important, don't get me wrong, but I think I'm glad to be at a college where almost all of the student body is liberal; I'd hate to have friends, hall-mates, classmates, etc. getting into fights.

As for the election, Obama's my choice. Other than him, I voted pretty solidly Democratic, save for a Republican for county commissioner; a few positions, like state university trustees, I didn't vote for, just because I have no idea how to judge which of the candidates would be better, what issues concern the universities, etc.

As for why Obama, I largely agree with his views on social issues, foreign policy, economics, etc., or at least I think that they're better than McCain's. As for the experience issue, if it even ends up being an issue, I figure that he'll have plenty of other people with more experience in his administration.

I'm wary of this turning into a fight again, but one of the most difficult questions/choices for me was a legalization of medical marijuana proposal...the big thing that bothered me was how vague the language was! In my opinion, medical marijuana legalization could go very well or very badly, but it seemed impossible to tell which way it would turn out, so I ended up leaving it blank. One interesting thing I did learn (from my dad) is that AIDS patients (not sure if it's an MI thing or a nationwide thing) can legally be prescribed some form of THC to be taken orally...perhaps a more medicine-like form of THC (that would be dispensed how other prescription meds are), by which I mean a form as far from the image of pot as possible, would make the most sense, and then the issues of decriminalization could be dealt with on its own, without taking the medical issue into account.

[FPSHOT]

Be calm, Rob. Read the posts calmly so you can absorb what is being said.



well I am quite calm, all I did is start a thread of which I thought it would be interesting to this forum today

You brought up the topic that you know has upset people on this forum in the past, & then you act surprised when some are upset.

the usual two, three get upset because "a foreigner" comes in to the land of politics, well sorry but as long as you Asha find that strange then I do hope also you have some ways to know what goes on in the world today. It seems you don't. But then do not blame me for that?

Why do you take it personal when they simply post a reply? Did you think you could post a thread on this subject & not see the replies from some that you do feel strongly about all this? Why are you taking offense to everything posted here? You started the thread & why are you surprised it goes any way other than what this topic has gone in the past? If you're upset, you did this to yourself.


you think I take this personal? Sorry but I don't. I just had a great night at a Leonard Cohen concert and had a great time and really never worried about how some here do not understand that there is an election coming on? I honestly do not care one bit but had only hoped for a bit more common knowledge.

I started the thread yes and I knew beforehand three people who would right away get in to this and I have been confirmed to that, I just hoped that you guys in the US would have some more interest in sharing opinions.

The fact this thread has gone bad is down to you and a few others who feel offended because foreigners are interested in the elections. Amateur hour. Mirror yourselve.

I RARELY am sarcastic & if I am, it's in joke & there will be a smiley like this one ---> :laugh5: Believe me, there is nothing sarcastic that I've posted in this thread. I'm simply & calmly replying to the thread.
maybe you should reconsider this because you would top a sarcastic poll for sure and not only on this thread

[PaulisMine]

I'm sorry you feel that way, I have talked with Asha face to face about politics and she is far calmer and more rational about it than I am. ;) I really don't think she was trying to be sarcastic with you at all.
I think it's great when folks from all over the world talk politics, the US is not the end all of things, we have much to learn from everyone.
Anyhoo, for those that are in the US that haven't early voted, please do vote tomorrow. As darkhorse23 reminded us, it isn't just the Presidential election - lets just assume NOTHING changes no matter who is elected President, it still matters who you vote for for Congress (all of them are up for election) and Senate (35 up this time) as well as state and local issues (some are having govenor races and very important propositions to be decided tomorrow as well).

[GirlWithKaleidoscopeEyes]

I wish foreign politics were more publicized/discussed in America.

On a lighter note--if you vote, you can get a free coffee at Starbucks and free ice cream at Ben and Jerry's tomorrow. Probably some other places offering promotions as well. Now I just need to locate a Ben and Jerry's and a Starbucks in my area (although there are a high population of college students and a bunch of coffee shops right within easy walking distance, surprisingly, Starbucks isn't one of them).

[PaulisMine]

Hmmm what do you have to bring to prove you voted? I have my sticker ... I want my free stuff! LOL

[GirlWithKaleidoscopeEyes]

I think just your sticker--nothing really formal or official.

[PaulisMine]

Sweet! Thanks for letting me know. B&J here I come!

[scouseofdistinction]

Thanks for your opinions FP, they're just that your opinions. Besides that they have no value to anyone besides you.
Hillary Clinton is an egotistical fool. and best not listened to.

Meh. That was just Bill Clinton's way of getting her distracted so he could do mattress mambo with Lewinsky.

I understand, but I still feel the thread has been taken wrong from the begining. And some strong words has been said against Rob, and I just think it's not right to just single him out.

I agree, however, you have to admit he did ask for it by openly "insulting" the Americans on the thread, not just one person.

the main cause is...the US.
we have had many incidents here thanks to ....
that is just your unawareness of what goes on in the world.


You know, you could be considered an American yourself. :rolleyes:

But, I just want to point out that yes, we do need to get better informed with issues revolving outside of our country. However, if you haven't noticed, it is election time. It tackles all of the issues within our daily lives. Kind of important so it's found EVERYWHERE...Getting tired of hearing about it. If I'm lucky, on the local news, I'd be able to see at least five minutes of what goes on within the city I live in, and this does not include the weather report.

[far_east_man]

I enjoy discussing political/social issues, but I hate how it often devolves into fighting...diversity of political views is important, don't get me wrong, but I think I'm glad to be at a college where almost all of the student body is liberal; I'd hate to have friends, hall-mates, classmates, etc. getting into fights.


I might get hit a bit here, please, I don't mean this as to be personal.

I was there a couple of decades ago; college student, very much interested in politics, very socially conscious, very idealistic and very liberal. I would argue with "older people" at every opportunity. I was out to change the world.

Guess what happened? I got out of school. I had to get a job. I had to start paying taxes. We all started having families and mortgages etc. And...much of that idealism doesn't work too well all of the sudden. However, I'm happy to report, I'm still very environmental, green if you will.

I got out in the real world and saw all of the government waste. Good programs that can't be implemented properly. I saw elected officials committing crimes, being found guilty....and then being re-elected!

I saw "poor people" buying cigarettes, beer and other "basics" like lottery tickets. They bought that with MY tax dollars. They had kids they couldn't afford. MY tax dollar paying for them to have more kids.

I know we don't live in a perfect society, but believe me, you look at it a bit differently with some experience under your belt.

[VersusBatman]

On a lighter note--if you vote, you can get a free coffee at Starbucks and free ice cream at Ben and Jerry's tomorrow. Probably some other places offering promotions as well. Now I just need to locate a Ben and Jerry's and a Starbucks in my area (although there are a high population of college students and a bunch of coffee shops right within easy walking distance, surprisingly, Starbucks isn't one of them).
I can haz ice cream? I'll vote!

[Rellevart]

Wow, take a half a day off and you're all sniping at each other. Please feel free to discuss the election, who you support or don't and why, but please, no more ragging on each other, no more cheap shots, no more deliberately misunderstanding what others are saying. I mean it.

HELLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO????? Seriously, NO MORE PERSONAL CRAP on this thread. No more accusing each other of anything. OK?

[GirlWithKaleidoscopeEyes]

I might get hit a bit here, please, I don't mean this as to be personal.

I was there a couple of decades ago; college student, very much interested in politics, very socially conscious, very idealistic and very liberal. I would argue with "older people" at every opportunity. I was out to change the world.

Guess what happened? I got out of school. I had to get a job. I had to start paying taxes. We all started having families and mortgages etc. And...much of that idealism doesn't work too well all of the sudden. However, I'm happy to report, I'm still very environmental, green if you will.

I got out in the real world and saw all of the government waste. Good programs that can't be implemented properly. I saw elected officials committing crimes, being found guilty....and then being re-elected!

I saw "poor people" buying cigarettes, beer and other "basics" like lottery tickets. They bought that with MY tax dollars. They had kids they couldn't afford. MY tax dollar paying for them to have more kids.

I know we don't live in a perfect society, but believe me, you look at it a bit differently with some experience under your belt.

I didn't take this personally at all. I completely understand what you're saying; I don't think I'll actually become much less idealistic until I get out into the real world (not resistant to change, just, like you say, you have to experience some things), but I suppose that's why it's good to have a variety of perspectives--idealism helps introduce new ideas and move things further than they would otherwise, and practicality helps to rein in and direct the idealism so that it can be focused into something useful; well, it doesn't always work like that, but they do serve to balance each other out somewhat. I think it'll be interesting to look back at things 20-30 years from now and see how my views have changed. It's strange, because I an idealistic, yet at the same time, some issues seem so mind-bogglingly complex that I don't know how people are supposed to come up with successful solutions to them.

[FPSHOT]

I agree, however, you have to admit he did ask for it by openly "insulting" the Americans on the thread, not just one person.


would you be so kind to point out where I am supposed to have done this?

[beatlelover45223]

One thing I hope that happens, is the food prices will resolve somehow. It's ridiculous that basic staples are getting expensive.

Not likely, that's going to happen, since the price of oil has dropped so drmatically in the last couple of weeks, we have not seen airline fuel sur-charges or the price hikes from the grocery stores for the higher cost to deliver food to them, drop any, I heard a financial analyst say the other day, don't expect to get a break on the groceries, they will most probably stay up (do I see price gouging and greed here?).... :nono4:

[VersusBatman]

Well then, I'm glad I have some food stored up in my basement.

[thecaitycat]

"Preventative care" is when you are able to take your child (or yourself) in to the doctor if you are running a fever, or something is wrong with your stomach, or whatever, and you can actually go to the doctor before it gets any worse. Before it turns into pneumonia, before you have a seizure and a brain anyerism that kills you. It is being able to have regular check ups, such as pap smears to detect cancer early and be able to treat it before it kills you.
Most people in the US that do not have medical care are forced to use emergency rooms for "basic" treatment that could be taken care of in a doctor's office. This increases costs for EVERYONE, even those who do not have health insurance, because taxpayers as a whole end up supplementing emergency rooms to keep their doors open. It is a HUGE problem in the US. 47 million people here do not have health insurance, so yeah, it affects every single person in the US, IMO.
Quoting this for posterity.

I willed myself to stay out of political threads, but I can't ignore this. Whether we want to face up to it or not, we're the #1 superpower in the world and what we do with our elections DOES have a direct impact on the rest of the world, whether it's Iraq, China, or yes, Holland. Our economy has influence on everyone else's and our military campaigns DO affect everyone else's. I didn't see anything said by FPSHOT that attacked anyone in our country or on this board. I myself wonder a lot of the same things. I think a lot of countries in Europe are walloping us in terms of healthcare and education. Our PTO/maternity and paternity leave/sick leave systems are laughable, in my opinion. Why is it an attack to ask about these?

As for a foreigner posting this thread... How would people have reacted if, say, I, a native-born US citizen had posted this? And how much of the perceived animosity is due solely to cultural differences? I can tell you that Americans in general are a lot less direct and less assertive than people in many European cultures. It's good to keep this in mind.

I think that yes, Barack Obama is the person with the best chances of bringing change to this mess we call the US government. Will he accomplish everything he's setting out to do? No, because that's the nature of checks and balances. However, he doesn't seem to have a cynical bone in his body when it comes to his goals for the country - He truly thinks he can change things, and I applaud this. That's the attitude we need. That's why he got my vote.

[beatlelover45223]

would you be so kind to point out where I am supposed to have done this?


perhaps it was this FP? :

Originally Posted by FPSHOT http://www.beatlelinks.net/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.beatlelinks.net/forums/showthread.php?p=898765#post898765)
the main cause is...the US.
we have had many incidents here thanks to ....
that is just your unawareness of what goes on in the world.

now me:

I don't think that you meant the US is responsible for all the worlds financial problems, did you? Maybe some took it that way?

I think the world takes a que from the US's economy.

The whole world's economy was by far nessed up before the mortgage scandals in the US and many of the investors in the US mortgages are foreign markets, so we can't blame the bad investments in (housing here in the US or elsewhere in the world for that matter) on just the US....

I think, imo that China has had t a lot to do with the mess in the economy and they were plowing along until recently making money hand over fist with all they export (junk products ie: poison pet food, milk their own children drink, medicine that was tainted and marketed all over the world etc)!

Never mind what BIG Brother oil supplier and oil companies have done to the economy world wide, I kind of hate to see the markets stabilize, we all know that the price of oil per barrel will just shoot right back up, because they can....

[FPSHOT]

Quoting this for posterity.

I willed myself to stay out of political threads, but I can't ignore this. Whether we want to face up to it or not, we're the #1 superpower in the world and what we do with our elections DOES have a direct impact on the rest of the world, whether it's Iraq, China, or yes, Holland. Our economy has influence on everyone else's and our military campaigns DO affect everyone else's. I didn't see anything said by FPSHOT that attacked anyone in our country or on this board. I myself wonder a lot of the same things. I think a lot of countries in Europe are walloping us in terms of healthcare and education. Our PTO/maternity and paternity leave/sick leave systems are laughable, in my opinion. Why is it an attack to ask about these?

As for a foreigner posting this thread... How would people have reacted if, say, I, a native-born US citizen had posted this? And how much of the perceived animosity is due solely to cultural differences? I can tell you that Americans in general are a lot less direct and less assertive than people in many European cultures. It's good to keep this in mind.



I am really glad that you see it this way. Alongside the usual personal attacks from a few which was to be expected no matter what I would write, it is very nice to read this open vision. Thank you very much :smile1:

[beatlelover45223]

caity, I usually stay out of political and religious discussions, very very touch subjects with many many people..... :cross2:

[thecaitycat]

I probably should keep staying out because otherwise I tend to make enemies without even trying. Sometimes I see something that really bothers me, though, and it's hard to keep my mouth shut (figuratively speaking).

My mother could tell you stories about me and religious discussions with my siblings' friends... I was a quiet teenager but sometimes I could be pretty outspoken.

[Magill]

caity, I usually stay out of political and religious discussions, very very touch subjects with many many people..... :cross2:



So, why do certain people repeatedly feel compelled to bring up such controversial subjects such as US politics on a public forum such as this one? It is completely beyond any sort of rational reasoning that I can see. It's always sure to be a recipe for disaster. And it always ends up bringing out the worst in otherwise decent people here. You'd think certain folks might learn to just leave sleeping dogs lie knowing this. :nono3:
I'm just waiting for a religious discussion to emerge now. EEK! :afraid2:

[Legs]

I agree, however, you have to admit he did ask for it by openly "insulting" the Americans on the thread, not just one person.



No.

[Rellevart]

Well, I certainly noticed HUGE long lines at the polls this morning, far longer than I've ever seen before, so it appears people are getting involved. I will be very interested to see what happens throughout the day today. They're requesting that businesses in downtown Chicago close down at 3 because the Obama rally is downtown tonight and they want to get all the workers out of the area before the rally people come in. OF COURSE my company is not complying with that. :rolleyes:

[FPSHOT]

perhaps it was this FP? :

Originally Posted by FPSHOT http://www.beatlelinks.net/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.beatlelinks.net/forums/showthread.php?p=898765#post898765)
the main cause is...the US.
we have had many incidents here thanks to ....
that is just your unawareness of what goes on in the world.

now me:

I don't think that you meant the US is responsible for all the worlds financial problems, did you? Maybe some took it that way?

Thanks Nancy :)

No I do not say nor mean that the US is responsable nor do I insult the US people with it. That is a weird combination of issues.

All I say is that the mortgage problems got the ball rolling internationally after the local affects in the US which are very bad, like you say with the queue issue. Yes.

"the main cause"

That is all I mean and if people feel offended by that ...well ...the whole world knows this is what happened so I am not telling anything new?

[digdad]

I'm getting into this discussion late since I haven't been around much. I've been standing in line voting (just kidding, I actually voted on Friday and the line was only 2 hours and 10 minutes long--not kidding about that).

There are a couple main points going on here that I'll briefly comment on. First the health care issue. I agree that it needs fixing, but I am not very optimistic that it will change greatly with the next administration whoever shall lead it. The key is not the person in charge, but public opinion on the issue which ultimately affects congressional action. Right now there appears to be equally divided opinion on privatized versus some level of socialized medicine. There are clearly problems with both fully privatized and fully socialized medicine. But I would like to eventually see some balance since currently there is a large segment of the population that is essentially excluded from proper medical care. (My early idealism has not left me since being in the working world either.) I'll also add that I don't like how the term "socialized medicine" has been equated with communism by many. Most countries with a form of socialized medicine are capitalist countries.

The major issue in this thread, though, has been foreign interest in our election. Should foreigners share opinions about it, let alone care about it? I would say yes and take no offense by the opinions. It is up to US citizens to elect the next president, but we also have to understand that we live in a world system. As a system, any change in one part can affect change in other parts of the system. We have seen this explicitly in the current global economic crisis. It is also clearly evident in environmental policies throughout the world. And it is not just changes in the major powers like the US that cause changes elsewhere in the world. Politics in smaller countries affect us as well, so we should similarly take an interest in what occurs in other countries throughout the world, even little Holland.

[Rellevart]

It is up to US citizens to elect the next president, but we also have to understand that we live in a world system.

Great point and I totally agree. However, I'm seeing a lot more isolationist and xenophobic views recently, which I find kind of troubling.

[FPSHOT]

Politics in smaller countries affect us as well, so we should similarly take an interest in what occurs in other countries throughout the world, even little Holland.

I like your post a lot :smile1:

We may look tiny as country - compare us maybe to one of your many states - and we are but do not forget our role in what ever became the USA and the fact that a few years back we were the largest investing country in the US.

But I do like that you see what goes on. Would you be a country like, well, Lesotho or Comoros or Bolivia then we would not have these topics, but since you guys try to be a big nation who wants to control the world (kidding !!!!!!!) well....

[digdad]

We may look tiny as country - compare us maybe to one of your many states - and we are but do not forget our role in what ever became the USA and the fact that a few years back we were the largest investing country in the US.
Yes, Holland is tiny only in area and population. I'm reminded of your reach every time I pull into my local Shell station to fill my gas tank.

Here's another interesting tidbit: Ben and Jerry's is offering a free scoop of ice cream today to people wearing their "I Voted" stickers. Guess who owns Ben and Jerry's. Unilever, a Dutch company. :teeth1:

[FPSHOT]

Here's another interesting tidbit: Ben and Jerry's is offering a free scoop of ice cream today to people wearing their "I Voted" stickers. Guess who owns Ben and Jerry's. Unilever, a Dutch company. :teeth1:

I am far to modest to say such things LMAO so thanks again :dance:

[FPSHOT]

OF COURSE my company is not complying with that. :rolleyes:

you could use the fire alarm?

[Asha]

Well, I certainly noticed HUGE long lines at the polls this morning, far longer than I've ever seen before, so it appears people are getting involved. I will be very interested to see what happens throughout the day today. They're requesting that businesses in downtown Chicago close down at 3 because the Obama rally is downtown tonight and they want to get all the workers out of the area before the rally people come in. OF COURSE my company is not complying with that. :rolleyes:

Did you go before work, Rell?

I purposely waited for everyone to get to work before running over. Of course, I have the convenience of working close to my polling site. I just had one person in front of me so it went quite quickly.

& yeah, everyone... I did get it verified, not only is Ben & Jerry's giving away some goods, Starbucks will give you a free regular coffee. It's true. One of my co-workers got the coffee! :cool1:

[Rellevart]

you could use the fire alarm?

Yeah, because getting fired and being arrested is high on my list of things to do today. LOL

[Rellevart]

Did you go before work, Rell?

I did. My polling place is just across the street from where I live and a half hour's drive from where I work, so I pretty much had to either go at 6:00 this morning or 5:00 tonight and I thought it might be a madhouse right after work.

I went on Starbucks' website and they didn't say anything about it...hmmm...I might have to wander over there this afternoon with my voting receipt and see what they say...

[VersusBatman]

I voted after I dropped my kids off at school.

[Mccartneyluvr]

All I really want is affordable health care, where you can't be denied for a pre exsisting condition. Is that too much to ask?

[digdad]

I went on Starbucks' website and they didn't say anything about it...hmmm...I might have to wander over there this afternoon with my voting receipt and see what they say...
I saw a couple news articles that mentioned the Starbucks offer (a free tall coffee--"tall" being "small" elsewhere in the world). But I voted on Friday and no longer have my sticker. (I also missed "Steal-a-base, Steal-a-taco" day last week. D'oh!)

[Asha]

I went on Starbucks' website and they didn't say anything about it...hmmm...I might have to wander over there this afternoon with my voting receipt and see what they say...

Yeah, give it a try! You never know! You may get some free coffee! Woohoo! :coffee2:

[Magill]

What if you're a tea drinker?

[Mccartneyluvr]

I went on Starbucks' website and they didn't say anything about it...hmmm...I might have to wander over there this afternoon with my voting receipt and see what they say...

A lady at the pharmacy got some coffee for free, just show your voter sticker.

[Rellevart]

Ok, I have a stupd question, everybody talks about "stickers"...do you really get "stickers"? Because all I ever get is a little piece of paper that says "Ballot Receipt. Thank you for Voting!"

[VersusBatman]

Yes, I got a sticker that said "I voted". My husband said I should wear it to show the kids i voted, but I don't see why. I'll just tell them.

[Asha]

What if you're a tea drinker?

I asked the same thing... no dice, baby!

[Asha]

Ok, I have a stupd question, everybody talks about "stickers"...do you really get "stickers"? Because all I ever get is a little piece of paper that says "Ballot Receipt. Thank you for Voting!"

In this state you get a round sticker, about 1.5", that reads "I voted" with a flag in the background. Most people stick them on their shirts somewhere so you can remind others as you're just walking around that they need to go vote, too.

We don't get a Ballot Receipt. Nuffin' else. Hmpf!

[PaulisMine]

Man! I voted early!
Although I heard it's illegal to give out things just for voting, so I'm thinking it's free to anyone. :D

[Serena]

It is still difficult to tell who will win in this state regardless of what these recent polls have been showing( they are not as accurate as they may seem).This race has been tightening more and more each day. The only poll that matters is today's, McCain still may have a chance to pull it out.

Also, I think it's great that people in surrounding countries have taken interest and enthusiasm in our election. On some levels,our president tends to have just as much of an effect on them as it does on us. Happy voting!

[VersusBatman]

Even PBS Kids is getting into the act. Most of the kid shows are about voting.

[VersusBatman]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v19/lavena138/motivator/votemotivator2.jpg

[VersusBatman]

http://i180.photobucket.com/albums/x48/tavarallo/motivatorvotekodos.jpg

[VersusBatman]

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g287/acatmaylook/testpattern.jpg

[Esmirelda]

I got a little sticker that sez, "I Voted". If you wear it to Starbucks in my state, you get a free coffee.

[thecaitycat]

I hope my boss lets me switch the TVs to election coverage tonight. It's going to be dead in my department and I want to watch the results live.

[Freda_Peeple]

Ok, I have a stupd question, everybody talks about "stickers"...do you really get "stickers"? Because all I ever get is a little piece of paper that says "Ballot Receipt. Thank you for Voting!"

In 2000, I was given a sticker that looked like one of these:
http://www.knittingliberally.com/files/images/F01-1100_IN_USE.jpg

Here's mine from 2004:
http://i34.tinypic.com/2dw9e0p.jpg

And here is the one I received a few days ago:
http://i36.tinypic.com/308dxn9.jpg
(It's hard to tell, since the photo came out so blurry, but there is a banner above the eagle's head which reads "E Pluribus Unum," and those dots are actually stars.)

[Lady Madonna]

I just was at my polling place and there were only 2 other people there. When I drove by it this morning it looked like a mad house. I'm glad I waited because I was in and out in 5 minutes. I've never once gotten a sticker for voting. :cry3:

[scouseofdistinction]

would you be so kind to point out where I am supposed to have done this?

The things I quoted you in my previous post, that Nancy elaborated on.

I also did see your reply to her by the way, and am not taking any offense. I don't think I said whether or not I was in my previous post, nor did I state whether or not I was "attacking" you for yours. [I was not on both by the way]. Everybody is entitled to their opinions and I actually find it interesting to see other countries interested in what goes on in the US world. :smile: However, when dealing with politics, people have to be careful of what they say because...well, politics can get a little bit nasty.

http://www.knittingliberally.com/files/images/F01-1100_IN_USE.jpg


I got that "kick ass" sticker today. Wearing it loud and proud! Yes, yes. :laugh5:

[Clark Kent]

They're talking about a 75% turnout. That would be a staggering number of voters. A lot of solid Bush states from 2004 are too close to call.

[Asha]

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g287/acatmaylook/testpattern.jpg

Gawd! I remember actually seeing this! haha! :laugh5:

[Asha]

In 2000, I was given a sticker that looked like one of these:

I love the new one you got! That one is COOL!

[PaulisMine]

McCain was pure class last night with the concession speech.

[Rellevart]

McCain was pure class last night with the concession speech.

Agreed.

[Lynner]

Ok, I have a stupd question, everybody talks about "stickers"...do you really get "stickers"? Because all I ever get is a little piece of paper that says "Ballot Receipt. Thank you for Voting!"
I'm an election judge, and in our precincts we give each voter a sticker that says "I voted".
And, since I was there from 5am-8:30pm, I missed out on the Starbucks, but gladly traded missing that for the a breakfast, lunch and dinner. Oh and our longest lines? That was from 6-6:30am. After that, I don't think anyone had to wait for more than 5 minutes. At least as far as our group was concerned, all went well.

[Blackguard]

No stickers were given out at my polling place. I'm not so sure I'd have worn it past the exit anyway. Just the idea of some stranger putting something on my clothes doesn't sit well with me.

[Blackguard]

Gawd! I remember actually seeing this! haha! :laugh5:


Showing her age

:runs out of thread very quickly:

[Asha]

No stickers were given out at my polling place. I'm not so sure I'd have worn it past the exit anyway. Just the idea of some stranger putting something on my clothes doesn't sit well with me.

Ohhh *runs to make a note to buy some stickers before Chicago Fest! :laugh5:* I'm so gonna stick it to ya, BG! :eyebrows:

[Asha]

Showing her age

:runs out of thread very quickly:

I am! I did! & you knew it was an age thing, so guess who else is show his age! haha! & you weren't actually running! It was more like a fast walk that you old folks do! :laugh5:

[Freda_Peeple]

No stickers were given out at my polling place. I'm not so sure I'd have worn it past the exit anyway. Just the idea of some stranger putting something on my clothes doesn't sit well with me.

That would bother me too. However, in my experience, they don't slap stickers on voters; they just hand one to you, or you take one from a basket or table.

[beatlebangs1964]

I signed up at least 200 new voters throughout 2008.

I've been a Deputy Registrar since 2003-04.

[Lynner]

No stickers were given out at my polling place. I'm not so sure I'd have worn it past the exit anyway. Just the idea of some stranger putting something on my clothes doesn't sit well with me.
Oh, at our polling place, we don't put the stickers on people, we just hand them the stickers and they "peel and press" themselves

[Magill]

Is that what they mean by "sticking it to the man"? :laugh5:

[IWantToTellYou]

After reading everyone's posts I wasn't sure if I wanted to participate in BLinks Brawl # 123,456,789,987,654,321. :laugh5:

But, here it goes:

People in France are in extactics that Obama won, and all I can think of is: WTF?! The French, last year voted in a right wing #@-¤% President, and they give a rat's ass about what is going on in the United States? The mayor of a town in France spent an astronomical amount of Euro to have a huge banner of Obama installed in his town. Why?! I didn't realize that I could have voted for the President of the United States! I should have registered...:rolleyes:

What is wrong with people? France's unemployment rate is 19% for people my age, and they care who the President is of a country over 5000 km away? To me it just doesn't make any sense! People cannot find full-time jobs here, and 40,000 people went on unemployment in the month of August alone. But, yeah, I give a rat's ass who the President of the USA is, because they would really be able to help me in France.

I'm not going to deny that who the Americans vote in as President has reprecussions all over the world, but perhaps people should focus on and vote what would be best for them in their country...

Congratulations to the Americans though. For once the rest of the world aren't grumbling in unison at the American people's choice. That being said, I hope that Obama does what is best for his country and citizens.

[digdad]

People in France are in extactics that Obama won, and all I can think of is: WTF?! The French, last year voted in a right wing #@-¤% President, and they give a rat's ass about what is going on in the United States? The mayor of a town in France spent an astronomical amount of Euro to have a huge banner of Obama installed in his town. Why?! I didn't realize that I could have voted for the President of the United States! I should have registered...:rolleyes:

What is wrong with people? France's unemployment rate is 19% for people my age, and they care who the President is of a country over 5000 km away? To me it just doesn't make any sense! People cannot find full-time jobs here, and 40,000 people went on unemployment in the month of August alone. But, yeah, I give a rat's ass who the President of the USA is, because they would really be able to help me in France.
I believe I understand the excitement. With Obama, the "freedom fries" may be returned to their rightful owners. :wink2:

[FPSHOT]

Africa is a continent

[IWantToTellYou]

I believe I understand the excitement. With Obama, the "freedom fries" may be returned to their rightful owners. :wink2:

Well, I guess that'll be good for the French, but I don't care 'cause I'm Canadian. :laugh2: Plus, I believe that "French" fries are actually from Belgium, or so the story goes...

[erinluv182]

"Preventative care" is when you are able to take your child (or yourself) in to the doctor if you are running a fever, or something is wrong with your stomach, or whatever, and you can actually go to the doctor before it gets any worse. Before it turns into pneumonia, before you have a seizure and a brain anyerism that kills you. It is being able to have regular check ups, such as pap smears to detect cancer early and be able to treat it before it kills you.
Most people in the US that do not have medical care are forced to use emergency rooms for "basic" treatment that could be taken care of in a doctor's office. This increases costs for EVERYONE, even those who do not have health insurance, because taxpayers as a whole end up supplementing emergency rooms to keep their doors open. It is a HUGE problem in the US. 47 million people here do not have health insurance, so yeah, it affects every single person in the US, IMO.

Now, as far as a change... I don't know. I just don't know. I voted early, I'll be watching, but as far as what will actually be accomplished, its difficult to predict.

Sorry, I work in health insurance, so I feel the need to correct. Preventative care is actually testing to make sure nothing is wrong with you (not going to the doctor when you are sick). So some preventative care examples would be a colonoscopy, breast exam (and other checks you have annually at your OBGYN); stuff like that.
The thing that is interesting to me about everyone trying to figure out what to do with the healthcare problem in the US is that no one seems to look at the exorbitant amount of money that healthcare providers make. It seems to be cut and dry, insurance companies are evil, end of story, close the book. I think there is plenty of blame to pass around.
Now, I know people will think I'm against universal healthcare since my livelihood depends on the continuation of health insurance as it is. But that's not what is most alarming to me about universal healthcare. I'm young, I have a college degree, I can do other things with my life. I am concerned as a consumer of healthcare what would happen if we took on universal healthcare. I've heard stories from countries like Canada and the UK that are frightening to me. The "lines" that people have to wait in to get the necesarry tests are ridiculous, and it would present a terrible problem.

[FPSHOT]

"President-elect Barack Obama named former campaign rival Hillary Rodham Clinton as his secretary of statae on Monday"

the world sighs over again finally another good decision (Oh I mean "the foreigners")

[Magill]

(Oh I mean "the foreigners")
"Way To Go!!" :girl2:
:rolleyes:

[FPSHOT]

"Last edited by Magill : Dec 01, 2008 at 07:46 PM." :laugh5:

[Magill]

Put your glasses on. It says 01:46! :tongue1:

[FPSHOT]

when you look at this without being signed in it says 01.46, 10.46 and 07.46 LOL

Most important is the "way to go Hillary", finally some improvement out there

[Legs]

when you look at this without being signed in it says 01.46, 10.46 and 07.46 LOL

Most important is the "way to go Hillary", finally some improvement out there

I disagree I rather had seen no trace of a Clinton in politics at all.
I won't go into details, but perhaps you know why.

[hibgal]

Maybe I'm overly optimistic but somehow I don't think we'll see this Clinton caught panties down with her assistant. :devious:

[Mccartneyluvr]

Maybe I'm overly optimistic but somehow I don't think we'll see this Clinton caught panties down with her assistant. :devious:

But if we did it'd serve her husband right.

[Legs]

Maybe I'm overly optimistic but somehow I don't think we'll see this Clinton caught panties down with her assistant. :devious:

I wouldn't mind if she did.

[PaulisMine]

I am finally motivated to apply at the State Dept. now! :)

[Asha]

I am finally motivated to apply at the State Dept. now! :)

I think you should. Do you need someone to carry your bags for you? :wave1:

[darkhorse23]

I disagree I rather had seen no trace of a Clinton in politics at all.
I won't go into details, but perhaps you know why.

I wonder what people disliked the most about the Clinton presidency. Which did they dislike more, the peace or the prosperity? :confused:

[PaulisMine]

Asha, I am sure we can work something out. They say, though, that your first 3 out of 4 postings will be in areas that are considered dangerous, etc. So if you're willing to move to, I don't know, Baghdad with me, let's do this thing!

[beatlebangs1964]

I wonder what people disliked the most about the Clinton presidency. Which did they dislike more, the peace or the prosperity? :confused:

Good question. I like Clinton and I have often wondered the same thing.

[darkhorse23]

Maybe I'm overly optimistic but somehow I don't think we'll see this Clinton caught panties down with her assistant. :devious:
But if we did it'd serve her husband right.

I wouldn't mind if she did.

Two wrongs do not make a right.

[Mccartneyluvr]

Ummm...I was joking. I wouldn't wish that on anyone.

[Legs]

Two wrongs do not make a right.

I am not seriously saying she should.
I just don't care about these things,
I've got different reasons for not wanting Hilary to be foreign minister.
A new face would be better imo.

[beatlelover45223]

Apparently, the President Elect/Obama, thought Hillary had the qualifications to be the Secretary Of State, one of the persons that works closest with the Presidents(US, anway), after offices are taken, besides she/Hillary does have a little more foreign travel experience and diplomacy under her belt than the President Elect at this stage of the game, the only time that the VP and President are ever together is in the White House or a secure place, they are never together outside these secure areas together, so as not to lose the President and VP at the same time, should an assasination attempt be made, just a litle tidbit/off subject....

[Asha]

Asha, I am sure we can work something out. They say, though, that your first 3 out of 4 postings will be in areas that are considered dangerous, etc. So if you're willing to move to, I don't know, Baghdad with me, let's do this thing!

Well, seriously... I don't think the government will let me work for you. I've been to a communist country so I don't think I can get clearance for some stuff. I've already been told I can't work for DOD... not that I really really wanted to, but you know... :laugh5:

[PaulisMine]

Okay, first we gotta move to England, or Canada, get married. THEN they can't say NUTTIN'! :D

BTW if anything were to happen to both the prez and VP, the Speaker of the House would be next in the line of succession, currently this is Nancy Pelosi.

[Asha]

Okay, first we gotta move to England, or Canada, get married. THEN they can't say NUTTIN'! :D

BTW if anything were to happen to both the prez and VP, the Speaker of the House would be next in the line of succession, currently this is Nancy Pelosi.

:laugh5::laugh5::laugh5: Easy piecey!!!