Americanising a Belgian
Printed From: CorrectCraftFan.com
Category: General Correct Craft Discussion
Forum Name: Off Topic
Forum Discription: Anything non-Correct Craft
URL: http://www.CorrectCraftFan.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=9784
Printed Date: December-26-2024 at 8:34am
Topic: Americanising a Belgian
Posted By: Kristof
Subject: Americanising a Belgian
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 7:17am
|
Eric Lavine wrote to me on another thread: "we'll Americanise you..."
Well, since I became a member of this wonderful site, I must say that I make more effort to know more about the States. Last night I was watching the news and they were reporting about the election race. Over the last few years, our media have become more and more about sensation. The news was reporting about the "fight" between the two candidates for the Democrats becoming more and more personal... Is it really such a fight? I was just wondering what my friends here have to say about that? Are the Democrats so divided? Is it really bad for the final elections as our media tend to report? The Republicans have closed the ranks as I understand, and all shared behind John McCain. So they are ready to send their candidate to the final elections... I did some reading on the sites of the three remaining candidates for the presidency, and I have the feeling that there are some major issues to tackle for the next government... health care, education, the economy, Iraq: yes or no... I have trouble to believe that America is as divided as our media tend to report sometimes (to much sensation IMHO)... At least it doesn't show here, as I found out we can all dicuss issues here and remain friends 
Teach me guys. I'm all ears and eyes In my country, the new elected members of parlaiment only succeeded in forming an interim government after nine months of debating and argueing. The interim government will be dissolved in two weeks, in order to form the definitive government for the next four years. Our politicians are already loading the guns for the next debating (or should I say fighting) round. At this point, there is still no coalition in the making and the different parties still cannot find any common ground to work on, so I'm starting to loose faith that we will have a new government in the near future and believe that we will have to vote again... The problem here is that our country is becoming more and more divided between the Dutch speaking north and the French speaking south, and the way our politicians are argueing between each other feeds this division. I for one deplore the fact that our country is starting to fall apart in this way... PS: my humble apologies for any bad English in this long post. Kristof ------------- - Gun control means: using BOTH hands! - Money doesn't make one happy, but when it rains cats and dogs, it's still better to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle... |
Replies:
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 8:58am
|
Kris, did you ever see 2 kids get into a fist fight on the playground? Everyone runs to see. This is the same effect the media tries to create in order to 'sell' their paper, their TV channel, etc. With so many organizations competing, the news has become much more about ratings than actually reporting the news.
I do think it's cool that you are so interested. In the end, and if you are able to sort through the BS, you'll be a better informed man! Give this guy a listen(available on the web) and he has some news links on his site. He's a libertarian and so doesn't mind picking on either side; and when presented with a choice he always opts for freedom. One of my biggest concerns is the percentage of our population who has their hand out to the gov't. They are giving up their own freedom without even knowing it?!!? http://boortz.com/index.html - Neal Boortz ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 9:19am
|
I didn't really answer your question. No, I don't think things are quite the way they are presented in the media and by some politicians. America is live and well!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKCVS57j284 - American Spirit ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 10:06am
|
the fighting amongst the 2 is normal. they are bidding for the most powerful position in the world, with the deme's though we are given 2 choices and the 2 choices just happen to be well..........lets say a milestone, and IMO personally i dont know if i am ready for "the change"
Im stalemated on choice and grew up through the family a Deme, there are big issues on the board and the country does need turned around, one thing that these politicians never seem to talk about is fuel prices. to get elected they will tell you what you want to hear. I could go on but then my views would be involved ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: Kristof
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 10:56am
|
I am glad that here in Belgium, we have free health care, one of the big issues in America...
I agree with you that the fuel prices are very high at the moment. It has become very expensive to drive your car our boat, and, most importantly, to heat your home! Also, here in Belgium, everyday products such as food have gone up, so getting the basics to live has become more expensive... The trouble is: I for one haven't seen my salary go up in accordance to all this... 
I too do feel that since 9/11 and the consequences of that act, we had to give up a big part of our freedom (US as well as Europe). For me personally, Bush has brought a lot of fear in the heart of men with his policy... And fear is never a good advisor... Just my personal opinion... On the Iraq and Afghanistan subject I can relate to both sides... Yes we should stay and see this one to the finish as McCain says. But, as the UN are in Jougoslavia for more than 17 jears now (I have colleagues that are on their 11th tour now), be prepared that you will be in the middle east for the long run, because you will have to completely re-educate the people over there. And your biggest problem over there is fanatics... They do have a lot of them, and most of all for them it's religious, a holy war. Nothing more difficult than that! Not something that can be done in a few years. I agree with Clinton and Obama that it will continue to cost a lot of money... Money better spent on domestic issues maybe?? That's why the UN can't leave the Balkans (the end of the mission is not in sight yet), because in the hearts of many people over there, they still have their animousity against each other. Many of them fear that the civil war will restart in it's full rage if the UN troops leave... I'm pretty sure it's the same case in the middle east... ------------- - Gun control means: using BOTH hands! - Money doesn't make one happy, but when it rains cats and dogs, it's still better to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle... |
BuffaloBFN wrote:Posted By: 79nautique
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 12:36pm
and how long is that line to see the Doctor and how long does it take to get the surgery done with the free systemyou have? ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=756&sort=&pagenum=1&yrstart=1979&yrend=1979 - 79 nautique |
Posted By: NAUTI84
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 12:39pm
|
One thing I'll say Kristof -
Excellent observations/questions/comments for someone living outside the country. 
Perhaps more Americans need to pay attention as you have. ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=421&yrstart=1981&yrend=1985 - EX-NAUTI84 |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 12:45pm
What he said...and nothing is free! Leave healthcare to the private sector. ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 12:46pm
 ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: quinner
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 12:48pm
|
Kristof,
In our country we have Republicans and Guy's like Eric who are Dumbacrats!! The media here is pretty crazy, not only on the political front but I have heard what is really happening in the Middle East is reported the same way, all sensationalism. Either way the war is a tough subject no matter what is really happening. Can't we all just get along!!! ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1143" rel="nofollow - Mi Bowt |
Posted By: critter
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 12:54pm
Lets not forget that nothing is free. They pay for it just as we pay for the free health care that takes place here. They just accept that they really pay for it and do so up front. Here we just keep paying the high taxes and some get free health care and others stand in line to pay. Wife hurt her eye, called Dr, Dr said go to emergency room or "urgent" care. Went to "urgent" care as not an emergency. Sat in urgent care for 2.5 hours to get perscription. And I pay for this !!!!
Do not get me wrong, I do not want to move to Canada or Finland or Belgium. I just accept that I pay for those that get it free and I pay for mine too. I am an American.  ------------- 1980 Ski Nautique 1966 Barracuda |
Posted By: azeus17
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 12:55pm
|
I agree with 79 and BuffaloBFN, the US started another system a while back that we are struggling to keep going called Social Security. Why they think they can manage universal health care any better, I am not sure.
As far as the Middle East goes, I to believe we will have troops there for a long time, even if they are not fighting. We still have troops in Vietnam and Germany and they are much more stable than Iraq and the surrounding countries. Someone posted earlier about the media creating a frenzy to get viewers. It is sad that they only report on the negative side of the war. It is funny that we have not heard much about Iraq lately, must be going better over there and that does not make for a very interesting story. ------------- Boats: Current: 02 SANTE Sold: 89 Sport Nautique |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 1:06pm
|
Did anyone watch the cactus cuties do the anthem? It's worth it! ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 1:40pm
|
Quinner, i gauge politics with how much money is in my pocket, since the oil man took over there is none, In the 90's i paid cash for a boat and ran the piss out of it every weekend going through 2 tanks of gas...without blinking an eye and not worrying cause gas was $1.09 a gallon or $1.69 but the point is that i could afford it, Im working twice as hard to make the same money and when your in business you do recognize what is going on and its just not in Ohio, its countrywide because I question people regarding this, i gotta shoot $600.00 a month for insurance, my gas intake has doubled, food prices are skryrocketed,
These are all facts and not picking a side but you know what.....its time i had some doe in my pocket ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: azeus17
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 2:21pm
|
Eric, I think the way you do. I want more doe in my pocket, which is the main reason I am republican. I don't want to get into a big debate here, but I think it is pretty well known that republicans are for lower taxes and Dems are for higher tax.
And I believe that if you asked Kristof, he would gladly pay the gas prices we lucky to have. ------------- Boats: Current: 02 SANTE Sold: 89 Sport Nautique |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 2:49pm
|
Im officially renaming them Rapepublicans,
I dont mind paying taxes, it's all the other *************** you pay for thats inflated. when it comes down to it I do pay 10% or less in taxes, its bait and switch, lower taxes higher prices for goods anyway you look at it you are going to pay no matter if it is taxes or if it is the COG's.....confuse and conquer, i was kidding about the Rapepublicans, it is a good name though, azues, according to my calculations i havent had excess money for 8 years or the equal to 2 terms ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: critter
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:00pm
It is obvious that you do not live in NC. We pay Federal, State, County, City, Gas, Food, Entertainment, Property, Road Use, etc, etc. Sure when you just calculate what the numbers are on April 15th, you get taxes you paid Federal and State. You add all the rest in there and you get a much higher number. Had a fellow worker call me out on this one as he said he was only paying about 20%. He tracked it for 3 months and found he was really paying closer to 40%  ------------- 1980 Ski Nautique 1966 Barracuda |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:03pm
This IS our current tax code!!! How many of you have been following what clinton and obama are promising?!!? It will cost big! Can anyone say FairTax? All taxes are paid on the user end...US! The FairTax would unveil all the ****** that Eric was referring to and everyone would pay taxes; legals, illegals, tourists, need I go on? ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: Aemmer
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:06pm
|
The media here is pretty crazy, not only on the political front but I have heard what is really happening in the Middle East is reported the same way, all sensationalism. Either way the war is a tough subject no matter what is really happening. Can't we all just get along!!! [/QUOTE] ------------- 88 2001 |
Posted By: Aemmer
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:08pm
|
Kristof,
In our country we have Republicans and Guy's like Eric who are Dumbacrats!! A few independents also. T ------------- 88 2001 |
Posted By: critter
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:16pm
|
See what you started Kristof...
This is why we leave the political discussions to the Media  ------------- 1980 Ski Nautique 1966 Barracuda |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:32pm
LOL Roger...but I think it's healthy. This all shows that we have a few thinking people here on the site. Now, as scary as that may be...what's even scarier is the dumb masses(read that quickly, it'll sound different) that say "it's true, I saw it on TV"?!!? ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:37pm
|
ALWAYS REMEMBER
Don't believe anything you read on this web page, or, for that matter, anything you hear on The Neal Boortz Show, unless it is consistent with what you already know to be true, or unless you have taken the time to research the matter to prove its accuracy to your satisfaction. This is known as "doing your homework." Neal Boortz ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: Aemmer
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:41pm
|
Quote A17-
"Eric, I think the way you do. I want more doe in my pocket, which is the main reason I am republican. I don't want to get into a big debate here, but I think it is pretty well known that republicans are for lower taxes and Dems are for higher tax." I believe the R's have a great theory "Smaller Gov't lower taxes" but lets take a look at what happened to the National debt during the past three Republican dominated Executive branches (yes even the almighty Regan era). Uncontrolled spending. ------------- 88 2001 |
Posted By: NAUTI84
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:47pm
Most scary - add: "read it online", "heard it on radio talkshow" or worst of all "read it in the newspaper" Our media now has it's own agenda and chooses how it feeds the news to us. This is very very scary!!!! The days of unbiased reporting seems to be long gone. Research, research, research - Find the facts before taking your stand! ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=421&yrstart=1981&yrend=1985 - EX-NAUTI84 |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:57pm
|
A fact is a fact, I had more money in my pocket in the 90's than i do now, I lived as an American should live, it has nothing to do with party affiliation and another thing because my friend cant get insurance or they wont insure him, he has to sit in his own *************** for hours at a time before they clean him, my other friend is putting out of his pocket 1500.00 in prescriptions, because he cant be insured, reform is needed and i dont know the answer to that one..but i'll tell you what anything could be better than what it is now....these are big issues that make this a do or dye country and the fat cats keep gettin fatter. and if i have to pay higher taxes to get my friends some help or some little boy needing a heart transplant by all means raise my taxes ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: 79nautique
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:58pm
Wrong, It was Regan who enacted the legestslation to reduce the debt which you saw reduced during Slick Willie's time in office and it was slick Willie that undid everything Regan did and It was Slick Willie who enacted NAFTA that has ruined this country by shipping jobs out of this country to Mexico and Canada ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=756&sort=&pagenum=1&yrstart=1979&yrend=1979 - 79 nautique |
Posted By: Kristof
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 3:58pm
|
Okay... just to say that our health care isn't free in hte strict sense of the word... but... the taxes we pay go for a great deal to social security and health care, so that health care is accessible for all and not only for those who have the doe for private insurance.
Tax rate here: 45% And the gas prices... well... I already mentionned them in another thread... I see that inflation not only a problem here... ------------- - Gun control means: using BOTH hands! - Money doesn't make one happy, but when it rains cats and dogs, it's still better to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle... |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 4:04pm
|
Kristoff if you add all your expenses up and divide them for what goes where I think you would be surprised, somebody has to pay for it whether it be in taxes or out of your pocket.
I pay out of pocket for insurance so what it is in how you word it, if the Gov paid it would be a tax, if i paid it would be called an expense ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 4:12pm
Eric, I'm all for you personally helping your friends...I do some of the same and think it's a good way to live, but I don't want the gov't forcing me to do the same at the point of a gun! ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: critter
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 4:15pm
|
Kristof,
Don't you guys get further education too ? I know that Finland does with their Tax rate of about 50%. Roger ------------- 1980 Ski Nautique 1966 Barracuda |
Posted By: scottb
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 4:30pm
That is exactly it. It is becoming more personal because they both have very similar views when you ask them about the major issues. It's difficult to debate policy when you agree with one another. |
Posted By: Aemmer
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 4:31pm
|
79,
I am sure I could send you to a quick dozen web sites that would differ with your opinion. Then you could send me to 2 dozen that differed with mine. I believe Nauti84 stated it good up above about researching and coming to your own conclusions. I respect the conclusions you have come to and they don't need to balance with mine. I just like it that you or whoever has an opinion and has put some thought into it. Also, IMO Clinton was a big dissapointment. T ------------- 88 2001 |
Posted By: azeus17
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 4:33pm
|
Wow! What a great thread. I go to lunch and there are like 20 new posts when I get back.
Obviously, Kristof, you can see that these are very big issues. I also support the fair tax. Everybody is on an even playing field. If you are poor and do not spend on "extra" or "luxuary" items, you do not pay any tax. If you buy a new $60,000 Correct Craft, you pay the tax. Seems pretty simple to me. ------------- Boats: Current: 02 SANTE Sold: 89 Sport Nautique |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 4:42pm
|
is there any dis-agreement on that this country is being divided into a rich and a poor class? do you think the middle class is being squeezed?
and Greg, If this country added another $3.00 per gallon would it be a tax and what would you do? you would pay it cause you need to drive and you would not think of it as a tax. it would be a tax and you would be forced to purchase it same as a sin tax ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 5:06pm
|
Eric, I love you dearly...but please don't tell me what I think! LOL I'm very aware of the taxes I pay because I have researched things for myself.
Oil prices are high now because demand is high and OPEC has once again decided not to up production. Also, the markets(our's and overseas) have pumped up the value because of the declining dollar. You may have also heard that gold is up. Historically, markets have gone to commodities in times of crunch. The 90's you mentioned are the results of Reagan's hard work...Clinton is still an international embarressment?!!? If anyone wants their money back, invest in oil when it goes down in the fall. Of course certain potential presidents could blow that too?!!? Eric, have you stopped by the pumpkin patch? ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 5:31pm
|
And no one wants to address the major problem of our housing bust. Glutonous people buying more house than they can afford and greedy fat lenders sucking the life out of fools. Hey lets dump a couple billion dollars into this problem and bail everybody out, with Taxpayers money?
The housing market is in a shambles, housing starts are non-existant. I provide a service to the construction trades, take wild guess how that part of my business is doing lately. My home value has dropped to the point where my tax base is higher than my resale, it's usually the other way around so now people are paying inflated property taxes. The economy is stalled in part because of the housing and in part because of energy costs, at my business it cost me 180% more to heat my facility this year than last. It costs me almost twice as much to have sales people on the road as it did 2 years ago. Maybe I should just raise prices? Impossible because the competitiion is starving and giving their work away to keep the doors open. I'd be better off buying them and shutting them down. How about that health insurance that we just renewed, only an 18% increase from last year, not bad considering we had to up our deductible to $2000 to achieve that. Health insurance is a joke, all it's good for is catastophic illness so if you get cancer your family won't go broke waiting for you to die, that is if you die fast enough because there are limits you know, it's in the fine print. You're every day guy is not spending his extra cash on frills anymore, it's going in his gas tank. Sales tax revenues are down because of this, how many counties are installing sales tax hikes next month, we'll be on our 3rd in 3 years. You can't generate more sales when no one has money so the one thing that is guaranteed is income from a higher tax rate. I could never understand why a government doesn't have to operate like a business, instead when they need more money they just take it instead of earning it. These candidates need to address the facts and get this country's economy moving, it's the only thing that will make a difference and it needs to be the #1 issue. ------------- You can’t change the wind but you can adjust your sails |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 5:42pm
|
you dodged my questions, and turned them completey around, Once again to re-iterate why is the demand so high for oil? answer that qustion and that tells you why this economy is so f-d up, and why your brother the autoworker aint workin, oh i forgot he is working.....for honda, toyoyta and it spurs our economy? not really, I dont care what anybody says on this site anything we touch in our hands or we eat, or we visit has to do with crude oil and the price of it, the oil producers no longer have one main customer who they need to pamper and take to the whore house, and basically can name thier price...and this is one thing you dont hear the politicians talking about, my mom just bought a new f-in Hyundai after trading in her Honda and it irratates the f-out of me, next thing you know them bastards up in North Korea will be making cars and living the American dream...im all for that but.....It is squeezing us as a nation, were not talking about 200.00 microwaves we are talking about $20,000.00 cars. this country was built on 2 things, war and the auto industry and if you take one out of the eqaution????? ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: critter
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 5:43pm
|
Common Alan,
Tell us how you really feel... Roger ------------- 1980 Ski Nautique 1966 Barracuda |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 5:59pm
They also make more and that = inflation. I agree Alan. Those running our gov't are not subject to the same rules as we are...and that is just plain wrong. Eventually, enough of us taxpayers will get pissed off enough to get together and have a Tea Party! IMHO-American history is very close to repeating itself?!!? ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: critter
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 6:06pm
This usually happens when the "Have Nots" can vote themselves a raise. We are very close to that now. You do not even have to be a citizen to vote in some states. Just have a Drivers license and you can register to vote. And in NC, they cannot ask for ID at the check-in table. You just tell them who you are or who you want to be. ------------- 1980 Ski Nautique 1966 Barracuda |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 6:07pm
|
Alan, I hate to say this but the average american turns the other cheek to these problems, and if you own a business which believe me is no f-ing joy for the last 5 years everyone would understand. these costs get passed on in some way and yes in my part of the country the housing industry is flat, you have people who paid 300k for a house 3 years ago and on the same street today you see the new construction signs of the houses starting at 220k.....boy did those first time homeowners build up some equity in the last three years ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 6:09pm
You and I need to buy each other a beer sometime! ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 6:16pm
|
Eric, I hope you aren't mad at me...I'll stop if you like. ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: Aemmer
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 6:21pm
|
Don't stop Eric,
Stir the pot. T ------------- 88 2001 |
Posted By: critter
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 6:22pm
I am all for it. And we can solve all the worlds problems while we have those beers.... We will need credit cards though cause it may take more than a couple of beers
------------- 1980 Ski Nautique 1966 Barracuda |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 6:26pm
I'm just getting started Roger, If I get a couple of beers in me my wifes shuts the door and turns the TV up.
------------- You can’t change the wind but you can adjust your sails |
Posted By: Hollywood
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 6:28pm
So Kristof, still want to be an American?? ------------- |
Posted By: azeus17
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 6:32pm
|
I am one of those first time home buyers that has lost money. I moved from Detroit Metro (worst housing market in the US) to FL and I can not afford to sell the house now. Luck for me I found some decent renters and I am breaking even, but many others are not so lucky and I don't know how long it will last for me.
Oh, and before someone says it, I did not buy more than I could afford. The price has just plain dropped that far down. I know in Michigan, and many other places, the economy closly resembles the demestic auto industry. When GM and Ford do bad, so does everyone else. Yet people still buy their asain cars to get an extra 3 MPG and then complain because their house price falls. All this talk about politics and the economy...I think I need a beer too!  ------------- Boats: Current: 02 SANTE Sold: 89 Sport Nautique |
Posted By: critter
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 6:39pm
I wish it was only 3MPG
These cars and trucks are getting what they were in the mid 70s. All that talk about improved fuel mileage while we waiting in those lines at 4am on odd/even days. What happened to all that talk. These car/trucks should be getting in the 50MPG range by now. We are talking about 30 years later....
And alot more money ... for what .. Fuel Injection and Clear coat paint. ------------- 1980 Ski Nautique 1966 Barracuda |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 7:09pm
|
Greg, I smile as i type, my rebel side left 10 years ago and if you called me right now i would say lets have dinner, of course i would make you buy lol, its a debate, If that was the case i would never talk to my wife. all i f-in know is im putting $20.00 in my tank every 2 days and its cutting into my beer money ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 7:10pm
Eric, May 5th will start my 11 year in business, I have seen and learned a lot, always at my own expense. In the last 3 years I've been audited by the Illinois dept of Employee security so I can make sure I'm supporting deadbeats, by the State department of sales and use tax so the govenor can send Million dollar grants to the wrong school, and the IRS to make sure I'm paying for my fair share of meddleing(sp) in other peoples business. No matter how straight you run your business you will always pay when they show up. And I really hate to pick on the average American because he's typically a hard working guy but I do agree many turn the other cheek. They simply don't have time to contribute to their future, I don't get it. I truly think the average Joe really doesn't know what to do about any of these issues, he doesn't even know who or what to believe by those we're willing to trust our personal fate to. Most are just along for the ride. ------------- You can’t change the wind but you can adjust your sails |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 7:11pm
|
Critter, we are the low ones on the pole when it comes to fuel economy, our government only require us to hit the 24 mpg mark unlike our europeon friends of 34 mpg...thats why you see alot of diesel powered cars in Europe ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 7:19pm
|
Alan, I like you, along with Greg and the others...lol
I just came in from the outside and they are running sewer lines up my street and right before my property they are crossing the street and i asked the guy why? he said cause you wont sell us your property at $2.50 a foot. Well when i built this place 3 years ago they made me put in a state of the art septic system which totaled 36k and it required half of the property so i had to go back to the architect and have the plans re-drawn which was another couple grand, i cut the building size down and so on. They knew these sewer lines were coming up the street and made me put this commercial system in. We hired attorneys, because now they want us to tap in going under the street and i dont even want to think about what this f-up is going to cost ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 7:41pm
Way too much mexican food! LMAO ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: Kristof
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 7:51pm
|
Hollywood,
I still would have no problem in becoming an American... As I spent the last half our reading all these posts I recognise a lot of the issues you have. My wife also has a business and the costs have risen quite a lot over the last three years. It is becoming difficult for the little business owners to hold their businesses... So we can relate. Inflation is a b**ch! I never thought I would start a debate here as big as this, but I can't complain: I wanted to learn... and believe you me, I AM LEANRING! Sure good to know the guys here use their brains and don't take anything for granted and can debate with one another! Thank you guys ------------- - Gun control means: using BOTH hands! - Money doesn't make one happy, but when it rains cats and dogs, it's still better to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle... |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 8:14pm
|
my brother just got back from the doctor bitchin, he clipped him for $150.00 cash and wants him to come back in another week, he told him you didnt do anything to me this week
its timing cause were going back and forth and he walks in bitchin and i cant stop laughing ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 8:15pm
Crap, I didn't know we we're debating, I was just bitching.
Ps. It ain't that bad, just gets a little tougher to get ahead every year. ------------- You can’t change the wind but you can adjust your sails |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 8:20pm
|
it aint bad, your right, but i just hate bustin my ass anymore, i wanna kick back and enjoy life and dont foresee that in the near future ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: critter
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 8:47pm
Give me 12 more months and I will let you know what you are missing  ------------- 1980 Ski Nautique 1966 Barracuda |
Posted By: Aemmer
Date Posted: March-06-2008 at 10:25pm
|
Kristof,
79 wrote: "and how long is that line to see the Doctor and how long does it take to get the surgery done with the free systemyou have?" I am also open mindedly curious about this? I know at the company I work for the medical expenses year over year go through the roof. I have to sell to my employees less medical benefits at a higher out of pocket expense yearly. Employees do not care how much more it is also costing their employer to attempt to maintain this benefit. Employees ultimately loose out though through lower pay/pension etc. due to this added company expense. T ------------- 88 2001 |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 12:13am
|
at this point im not for socialized medicine but you know what, anythings got to be better than what it is now, another nut buster was my wife gets migraines and i tell her to buy three pills at a time for a total of $86.00..... if the pharmacist would knock a fifty spot off them i would be willing to wait in line for another hour ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: quinner
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 12:29am
|
As one of the self employed I can really appreciate some of the things Alan has discussed, for me it will be 14yrs this summer. Insurance as a whole is quite a racket, it is my second highest operating expense, with payroll being 1st.
Another major issue is getting my invoices paid, you would not believe how many dishonest business people there are out there, the trend in my collections is the more money they have the harder it is to get them to pay! And my last complaint will be the legal system, or what I believe is Tort Law. Over the last three years the amount of money I have spent on legal to defend being named within the Mother F'n Lawyers laundry lists of defendants on individuals injury claims could have paid for a fleet of boats that would make the likes of Timmy or Reid Proud. Kristof, no matter how much complaining you hear my bet would be there is not one of us here who would want to live anywhere else but the good old US of A!! God Bless America and all those who serve her!! PS, Eric I love it when you talk about the Import cars that way, I am right there with you brother!! ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1143" rel="nofollow - Mi Bowt |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 12:44am
|
Im not complaining, just trying to fix the world, maybe i should just stick to fixing trannys ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: boat dr
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 2:31am
She wakes up the next mourning and your sorry ass is still there, tell her to ask for her money back...........LOL Boat dr ------------- boat dr /diaries/details.asp?ID=4631 - 1949 Dart /diaries/details.asp?ID=1533 - 1964 American Skier |
Posted By: adamt
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 2:39am
That's some funny $hit ------------- -Adam 1973 Skier |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 9:35am
|
Boat doc, your wife is LETTING you play on the computer i see ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 9:58am
|
Kristoff, how is or how does socialized medicine work in your country?, please enlighten us ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: NAUTI84
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 10:55am
Yep - We've all got it pretty good! ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=421&yrstart=1981&yrend=1985 - EX-NAUTI84 |
Posted By: boat dr
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 11:43am
|
Eric, I saw no reason to even comment on that thread,but had a chance at YOU.Left your self wide open, sorry could not help myself....
We have three in this hose, Karen and Alicia have their own.I think we have three of everything ha ha ha ..... ------------- boat dr /diaries/details.asp?ID=4631 - 1949 Dart /diaries/details.asp?ID=1533 - 1964 American Skier |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 1:00pm
|
you use to have two of something but as of valentines day they are gone..lol ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: tullfooter
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 1:32pm
|
Just thought I'd throw this tidbit in the mix. We have a business that involves trucking here in Michigan. We buy diesel fuel 8000 gallons at a time. Our last purchase, Jan 3rd, fuel, including taxes, was $3.35/gal. Today's quote was $4.10/gal.
Ouch
Steve ------------- Play hard, life's not a trial run. '85 BFN '90 BFN White Lake, Michigan |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 2:55pm
|
Can anyone reading this logically tell me why we as Americans are paying this much for fuel, what is the reason
so Tull what do you do now that you have to pay that much more for fuel? surcharge? ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: 79nautique
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 2:59pm
|
federal and state tax's is why Eric ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=756&sort=&pagenum=1&yrstart=1979&yrend=1979 - 79 nautique |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 3:06pm
|
OPEC's decision not to up production effectively reduces supply while demand always increases as a factor of the increasing population. Also China and India are thriving and using much more further increasing the demand. We all know the equation.
I see where some in Dubai have a few quarters to spend as well! ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: tullfooter
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 3:22pm
|
Eric
We don't apply a "surcharge" directly, but we have to figure in the cost on shipments based on the distance. We also try to piggyback loads as much as possible. It's tough when you figure our trucks get in the area of 5.25-5.75mpg. 79 We pay about $0.60/gal in taxes. 
Steve ------------- Play hard, life's not a trial run. '85 BFN '90 BFN White Lake, Michigan |
Posted By: 79nautique
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 3:52pm
|
I thought it was closer to about 40% of the cost/gal in IN. ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=756&sort=&pagenum=1&yrstart=1979&yrend=1979 - 79 nautique |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 4:17pm
|
i think there is a fixed tax on a price per gallon, i dont think it is a percentage,
Greg mentioned demand, i think if the production was down we would see closed gas stations and gas rations, so i dont believe that one, i think its we have what you want and your going to pay what we say. it is insane what theyu are doing over in Dubai, they are dumping trillions not billions into thier economy and supply is low? ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: March-07-2008 at 5:36pm
|
So Steve, If you can't recoup that extra expense in either a surcharge or a price increase what do you cut out? Whatever it is it will be money you're spending for fuel that will not go back into any local economy and it's just a domino effect that is spiraling down so fast we're gonna hit bottom and it will be devastating. This reactionary crap with our governent is B....T, why do we sit around and wait for it to implode and then react. Critter hinted on that earlier where there hasn't been a change to the millage requirements of our cars since 1978, that's 30 years. LOBYISTS and PAC's thats why, greasing palms and buying what they need. These people are paid by big interests to buy power with total disregard for the long term outcome. Can anyone say Haliburton? Why is it our former Governor is in prison, and our current one with a little luck will be joining him. Because they're greedy crooks and can be bought and sold like a cheap whore. I'm going off my rocker again, sorry but when the hell is someone that can't be persueded by personal interest or that of his cronies going to step up and lead this country. I love this country to the death but I'm tired of being embarrased and ashamed of those that represent us. I hope you all don't think I'm an *************** but if I could make a difference I would. Just give me someone to vote for that can. ------------- You can’t change the wind but you can adjust your sails |
Posted By: Kristof
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 3:41pm
|
Heck, been working on my trailer for two days and come back and see you guys have been busy on this post... lot of reading to do...
Our health insurance system: Everybody here is obligated to be affiliated to one of the three union related health care insurance compagnies (funded partially by the government). We pay some 55 euro (85 USD) per year for the membership. Now say that I have an accident and need surgery. When the bill comes, only some 5 to 10 percent is for my account, the rest is payed by the insurance. If I take a hospitalisation insurance (I pay 32 (49 USD) euro per year) I don't have to pay for anything. Compagnies all have collective insurance for their employees (ordered by law). So if you have an accident at work the compagny insurance pays for all the necessary medical needs. 79 wrote: "and how long is that line to see the Doctor and how long does it take to get the surgery done with the free systemyou have?" Well, I have to say that the lines are not that long... We have a lot of fine hospitals and doctors... and liked by our neighbouring countries, because they come over here to have surgery. ------------- - Gun control means: using BOTH hands! - Money doesn't make one happy, but when it rains cats and dogs, it's still better to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle... |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 3:56pm
|
so Kristof, no one is denied medical help whether you are rich or you are poor, all in all what do you think about the current system in your country? ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: tullfooter
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 3:56pm
|
Alan,
We do try to recoup fuel increases in our shipping costs, but when prices jump like they are, we can not increase our pricing directly or we would not get any of the work. This is even tougher in an economy where businesses are cutting pricing to the bone, just to stay afloat. What's even harder to recoup is the shipping costs on jobs that we quoted months ago,when fuel was 75% cheaper.
This is where margins take a hit, and ownership has to absorb it. Steve ------------- Play hard, life's not a trial run. '85 BFN '90 BFN White Lake, Michigan |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 4:08pm
|
Steve, what do haul? and i would assume the end customer also passes along the costs to the consumer ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: Kristof
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 4:09pm
|
Eric,
I think it's a very good system. My wife has a bad back and she also hurt her wrist... Glad she could have the surgeries, without having to pay the enormous bills that came with them... ------------- - Gun control means: using BOTH hands! - Money doesn't make one happy, but when it rains cats and dogs, it's still better to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle... |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 4:19pm
|
Kris, there is a pharmacy on every corner in this country, when i was younger you had to drive 15 or so minutes to get to one, thats one i dont understand and you always have to wait for your prescriptions because thare are 5 people ahead of you, if you have a cough the doc schedules you for a cat scan, then a mri, then a rectal exam, and in between he schedules you to his office for follow ups..... i wish the transmission business was like this ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: boat dr
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 4:27pm
|
Is that all you can do Eric is BITCH< I am sure there is room in another country for one more..............You are sitting in a warm house with a full belly moaning and groaning about how TUFF you got it .....
I have heard enough OK......... ------------- boat dr /diaries/details.asp?ID=4631 - 1949 Dart /diaries/details.asp?ID=1533 - 1964 American Skier |
Posted By: Morfoot
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 4:39pm
|
Okay, I hate the confrontations that usually happen when politics are involved but I'll through in my hat and join in. the way i see it is:
A little over one year ago: 1) Consumer confidence stood at a 2 1/2 year high; 2) Regular gasoline sold for $2.19 a gallon 3) the unemployment rate was 4.5%. Since voting in a Democratic Congress in 2006 we've seen: 1) Consumer confidence plummet; 2) the cost of regular gasoline soar to over $3 a gallon; 3) Unemployment is up to 5% (a 10% increase); 4) American households have seen $2.3 trillion in equity value evaporate (stock and mutual fund losses); 5) Americans have seen their home equity drop by $1.2 trillion dollars; 6) 1% of American homes are in foreclosure. America voted for change in 2006, and we got it! Now let us all blame it on "Bushka and Chenski" as it is all their fault. I'm so sick and tired of everyone in this country always blaming someone else for the problems we have created for ourselves. Be responsible and own up for yourself and your actions don't blame them on someone or something else. I love this country but am tired of the politcal correctness that has taken over and the " YOU OWE ME" mentality. If I go and live in Belgium then I had better learn to speak Dutch or not even bother. I need to assimulate to them, not them to me. That is the problem with the USA. We all are to easily offended if something we don't like doesn't go our way. ------------- "Morfoot; He can ski. He can wakeboard.He can cook chicken.He can create his own self-named beverage, & can also apparently fly. A man of many talents."72 Mustang "Kermit",88 SN Miss Scarlett, 99 SN "Sherman" |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 4:45pm
|
BD im not bitchin, im just trying to make the country a little better, are you one of those guy's that look the other way? ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: boat dr
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 5:09pm
|
Scroll thru some of my posts and see >>>>>>>
I try to stand up for what is CORRECT< answer is I have become my DAD.Old time values and God needs to be at the center of my life. I need to do my part,and sometimes that means keeping my mouth and opinion to myself.Part of doing a good deed is not showing or telling, it is that good feeling it gives me, and this is enough reward. You seem to enjoy telling everyone about your good works, that is fine, I choose the quieter approach. Point being as to the cooler being mounted backwards.........Boat dr Enough about the state of the union......VOTE ------------- boat dr /diaries/details.asp?ID=4631 - 1949 Dart /diaries/details.asp?ID=1533 - 1964 American Skier |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 6:14pm
|
well if you look at it this way BD, if the cooler was on backwards which it isnt, it wouldve caused the trans to burn up and i could've hit him up for another rebuild charge so i missed out on another one.... but the way i posted it i Guarrentee, Greg, and 40 other guys will remember the cooler routing and why it should be routed that way, ...........and that is my reward ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: boat dr
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 6:25pm
|
Nah, I think you have given him that WAVE WARRANTY that you spoke of and told his it his fault,even tho the cooler came from the factory plumbed that way...... ------------- boat dr /diaries/details.asp?ID=4631 - 1949 Dart /diaries/details.asp?ID=1533 - 1964 American Skier |
Posted By: BuffaloBFN
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 7:04pm
A home town hero... ------------- http://correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2331&sort=&pagenum=12&yrstart=1986&yrend=1990" rel="nofollow - 1988 BFN-sold "It's a Livin' Thing...What a Terrible Thing to Lose" ELO |
Posted By: Kristof
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 7:57pm
|
Morfoot, right on!
What you said goes for every country and it's people if you ask me... ------------- - Gun control means: using BOTH hands! - Money doesn't make one happy, but when it rains cats and dogs, it's still better to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle... |
Posted By: critter
Date Posted: March-08-2008 at 11:22pm
|
Morfoot, are you running for any political positions. Sounds like you at least see the issues. I would vote for ya ------------- 1980 Ski Nautique 1966 Barracuda |
Posted By: Morfoot
Date Posted: March-09-2008 at 1:58am
|
Na!It would take too much time away from my boating and wakeboarding time.... I don't know about the rest of you guys; but I've had it up to my eyeballs with this whole presidential crap and mudslinging. ALL THREE of them scare the hell out of me and it boils down to which one Flip-Flops the least and is least crooked.
IMHO at least with McCain who is a father, a husband, a soldier and a POW who was beaten to hell and back, ain't gonna take no "She at" (use a southern drawl ) from Nobody! A soldier was out on a date with Chelsea Clinton when she asked him; You've been to Iraq, and Afganistan and see alot of horrible and scary things. Tell me, What scares you the most? The solider replied without thinking; There are only three things in this world that scare me; 1. Osama 2. Obama & 3. Your Mama!!! ------------- "Morfoot; He can ski. He can wakeboard.He can cook chicken.He can create his own self-named beverage, & can also apparently fly. A man of many talents."72 Mustang "Kermit",88 SN Miss Scarlett, 99 SN "Sherman" |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-09-2008 at 1:05pm
|
what it boils down to is money is power, whomever is elected they still have to answer to the same people and im not talking about the voters, you might think im whacky, but wouldnt you think we should've had Osama a couple years ago? Afganastan is a large producer of what?
why are we in Iraq? it sure isnt democracy cause woman had the right to vote there in 1929 ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: boat dr
Date Posted: March-09-2008 at 1:10pm
And your point is????????? ------------- boat dr /diaries/details.asp?ID=4631 - 1949 Dart /diaries/details.asp?ID=1533 - 1964 American Skier |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: March-09-2008 at 1:20pm
|
my point is that it doesnt matter who is at the top, we are a product of propaganda and we are taught throughout our lives to do the right thing and the Big business contradicts or even dictates what we do......no matter if it is oil or if it is a product from the poppy plant ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: Kristof
Date Posted: March-09-2008 at 1:38pm
|
Well... the saying goes: "Money makes the world go round"... It's always been like this and I got the feeling it ain't gonna change anywhere in the near future
Politicians worldwide have to answer to whom ever financed them, that's the way it's always been... ------------- - Gun control means: using BOTH hands! - Money doesn't make one happy, but when it rains cats and dogs, it's still better to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle... |