Stories from the Sales Frontlines

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Comments

  • dougb10dougb10 Member Posts: 185
    Sorry, I don't agree with snakeweasel that it is necessary to seal every driveway. Our driveway is six years old....in Burlington,Ontario and is exposed to harsh winters as well as a current 90+ degree heatwave.
    Our drive way is a quality one...excavated several feet down and not one of the "builder specials" that go into most subdivisions.
    I made a point of asking the paving company foreman about sealing. He pointed at the road said in a year or so your driveway will look like the road and turn grey...if there is no damage from gasoline or something breaking the surface, leave it alone. You don't see them sealing neighbourhood streets!
    The secret is the high amount of stone agregate in the compound.
    Thin crappy driveways will need sealing....there are some that don't.

    My next door neighbour just had a new driveway put in by the same company that did mine. He told them he wanted a driveway like ours.The estimate was twice what he eventually put in...much thinner without the agregate. He was told he would probably have to have it sealed occasionally. So....you get what you pay for!

    Doug
  • verdugoverdugo Member Posts: 2,288
    Went to a minor league baseball game on Saturday. We were shocked that these 3 girls (they were over 21 because they were drinking) did not stand up for the national anthem. It was even worse when we realized they were with their parents (who did stand up). Kids! :sick:

    Happy 4th of July to everybody.
  • isellhondasisellhondas Member Posts: 20,342
    Yes, please keep us posted and thanks for your effort.

    I get this feeling it doesn't take much to be an officer in the SA.

    But, I could be wrong...
  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Ya know I am a pretty easy going liberal weenie type but people who do not stand for the national anthem or pledge of allegiance drive me nuts.

    I did see that that Salvation Army college was some sort of Catholic college previously. They apparently bough up an existing college campus. I also see that while they distribute a lot of money that they also have quite extensive real estate holdings. A lot of it is in housing for their people in the field.
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    From that I would presume you have an asphalt driveway.

    Yes, it is asphalt and it is almost 3 years old. It is now light gray, and we like it that way. Our neighbors had a new driveway put in and though it is black, it shows tire and footprint marks.

    Right now, we might leave it and see what happens. It might be better to put in a concrete one like Richard mentioned when and if it ever breaks up.

    The information helps, but we are leaning towards waiting and seeing what happens.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    Thin crappy driveways will need sealing....there are some that don't.

    I am glad you wrote to tell my that Dougb10. The builder of this house did everything to top standards so I doubt if he skimped on the driveway, and from what you are saying that seems to be a big factor.

    I recall reading that some people believe in sealing and some don't...each has their reasons. We live within 10 miles of each other so if leaving it worked for you I think it will work for us.

    Right now we are leaning strongly to letting it go. We can decide what to do when and if it cracks up. Just hope a car with leaking oil doesn't park on it.

    I think I mentioned one skeptic wrote he was in a neighborhood where one home owner sealed his driveway and one didn't. He said he could not see any difference.

    If any one see's some solid info one way or the other I would be glad to check it out.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,486
    well, there is another option if you are redoing. You can get stamped asphalt now. looks just like pavers, but no joints, and no need to seal. and quite a bit cheaper.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    "Kids!"

    If they were over 21, then they are adults. The three of them should be sent to the Afghan border. Better yet, a trip to the wood shed might produce remarkable results.

    I witnessed the same thing at a basketball game last year. The guy 3 rows below me did not stand. On top of that, he talked on his cell phone the entire time. :mad:

    Richard
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    You can get stamped asphalt now.

    That's what Richard did and I think that is a great alternative. Leave the asphalt until it starts to buckle, then use stamped concrete, which looks great, probably holds up pretty well, and you can probably choose a color and design that you like.

    The margins on the side and ends of the driveway are brick, so it might go really well with that. And, by then the brick will probably sink and need to be topped up, so it might all work out.

    I sometimes feel that keeping on top of house things make me totally responsible for keeping the economy of the country moving forward. I am a big contributor to the Gross National Product.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • imidazol97imidazol97 Member Posts: 27,690
    >The stamped concrete in our color and design choice

    >bluestone, larger pieces...

    I don't know what this is. I think of the popular upscale coatings for driveways in the milder Nashville climate of our friends where a brown, smooth pebble is embedded into the concrete to make beautiful driveways.

    Are you able to take pictures and post them showing the results?

    2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    Went to a minor league baseball game on Saturday. We were shocked that these 3 girls (they were over 21 because they were drinking) did not stand up for the national anthem. It was even worse when we realized they were with their parents (who did stand up).

    That’s a problem with the parents; pretty much like other faults that parents have with their kids when they allow them to be “free thinkers”.

    It’s because of the ones that paid the ultimate price to give our country all that it has and the right to be “free thinkers” that we have to see such things. Things like this can almost always be traced back to the parents.

    I know if I saw it I would have said something.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,486
    Not stamped concrete (which Richard got for his walk). It is actually an stamped asphalt driveway you can do. Looks just like pavers.

    another thing I saw done once (on this old house) was a stone topping (maybe this is what richard did). They heat up the asphalt, and spread a layer of stone on top, then roll that it and let it harden. Looks like a stone driveway, without the hassles of loose stone.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • verdugoverdugo Member Posts: 2,288
    I witnessed the same thing at a basketball game last year. The guy 3 rows below me did not stand. On top of that, he talked on his cell phone the entire time.

    OMG! That is bad.

    Another thing that pisses me off is when people don't remove their hats for the national anthem. Show some respect people!
  • verdugoverdugo Member Posts: 2,288
    edited July 2010
    I know if I saw it I would have said something.

    We normally would too. This time we were in lawn "seats" (never again), and they were sitting behind us. We only saw them when we turned at the end of the anthem to see the jumbotron. By then it was too late.

    One of the girl's beer spilled. I'd like to think it was karma.

    OT, I wonder if they drove an American car to the game?
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    edited July 2010
    This dealer in Buffalo seems to have an interesting approach to selling cars. They check and compare prices on over 20000 websites to comapre prices.

    When shopping for a car, the first two questions that come to mind are: "Is this a good car?" and "Is this a fair price?"
    We think you should be asking a third question: "Is this a West Herr Automotive Dealership?"

    At West Herr Automotive, our team is committed to helping you rest easy when purchasing your next vehicle.
    We offer a wide selection of quality pre-owned vehicles. And with our exclusive Internet Value Pricing System (IVPS), you get a fair price, every time on every vehicle we stock.
    The West Herr Automotive IVPS performs a comprehensive search of over 20,000 pre-owned vehicle web sites every hour. These real-time results ensure you receive a fair price. No pricing games. No "mark 'em up to mark 'em down" gimmicks. No negotiating contests.
    Since 1950, we've been dedicated to creating lifelong relationships with our customers by delivering a fair value and good-neighbor service. Our no pressure, no haggle, no hassle is a simple, stress-free way of conducting business. West Herr Automotive IVPS is just another way we're showing our commitment to you.
    A good car. A great value. An outstanding dealership.

    Domestic Imports East Aurora Buick Cad GMC Pontiac Saturn of Clarence Saturn of Orchard Park West Herr Lincoln Mercury West Herr Ford Amherst West Herr Ford Hamburg West Herr Chevrolet Orchard Park West Herr Chevrolet Hamburg West Herr Dodge Orchard Park West Herr Chrysler Jeep Orchard P West Herr Nissan West Subaru KIA West Herr Honda West Herr Toyota Orchard Park West Herr Toyota Williamsville

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    About 2 weeks ago a secretary asked if I was satisfied with my Hyundai purchases. She knows that I am on my third one. The reason she asked was because she wanted a Honda but the three dealers she went to around here just didn’t seem interested in making a sale. They all seemed to think because it was a Honda the price they gave her was the price she’d have to pay. She said they all wanted about $500 less than MSRP for the same model and that was it. No further negotiating.

    She went to a couple of Hyundai dealers around here and liked the prices and the car (2010 Sonata) but is now leaning towards a 2010 Altima.

    Something tells me she doesn’t want to be associated with me. In any case maybe she’ll use the pointers I gave her about how to deal with salesmen. :confuse:

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • boomchekboomchek Member Posts: 5,516
    She said they all wanted about $500 less than MSRP for the same model and that was it. No further negotiating.

    That's about right especially on Civics. Also keep in mind that dealers won't want to negotiate any further unless they have a commited customer ready to buy at that time. If she's in her intial stages and hasn't decided what BRAND to buy yet, then it's pointless to start any soprty of negotiating. And it also seems like she's more interested on the size of a discount than a vehicle that she likes.

    2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    That's about right especially on Civics.

    I should have said she was comparing an Accord with a Sonata. That's why she is leaning toward an Altima. All of those are supposed to compete.

    Also keep in mind that dealers won't want to negotiate any further unless they have a commited customer ready to buy at that time. If she's in her intial stages and hasn't decided what BRAND to buy yet, then it's pointless to start any soprty of negotiating

    I told here all of that but she said the Hyundai stores and the Nissan stores gave her much better prices compared to MSRP than did the Honda store which as I have heard and you have confirmed is the way Honda stores operate.

    And it also seems like she's more interested on the size of a discount than a vehicle that she likes.

    I won't argue with that and I told her she won't always be able to get her cake and eat it too. As of last Friday the Altima seems to be what she wants, all things considered.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    I've drunk a lot of Honda Kool Aid and still think they are great cars but right now if I were buying new I'd be looking at a Sonata or an Altima or a 6 myself.
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • boomchekboomchek Member Posts: 5,516
    I told here all of that but she said the Hyundai stores and the Nissan stores gave her much better prices compared to MSRP than did the Honda store which as I have heard and you have confirmed is the way Honda stores operate.

    Maybe they had more markup, maybe she ran into salespeople that were quick to give money away before figuring out what the customer wanted. Those bigger price drops are meaningless though as she didn't buy anything anyways.

    What I'm trying to say is she's as undecided about Accords as she is about the other brands even though she received comparatively little discount at Honda. So the big discounts haven't really accomplished much or created a sale for the salespeople.

    2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    comparing an Accord with a Sonata. That's why she is leaning toward an Altima. All of those are supposed to compete.

    Has she actually driven all 3 cars? It sounds like discount is more important than the driving experience. Guess she doesn't care about "the feel of the road".

    Poor woman, guess she will go through life driving an appliance.

    Funny that she asks you about a Hyundai and then wants to buy something else. It's like when my daughter was a teen ager, if I told her a song she liked sounded good to me, she realized that there was something wrong with it and no longer liked it.

    My brother is an excellent judge of movies. If he doesn't like them I know I will, and people will flock to see it. If he does like it, no one else will. Maybe that is why she asked you about Hyundai's.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    What I'm trying to say is she's as undecided about Accords as she is about the other brands even though she received comparatively little discount at Honda. So the big discounts haven't really accomplished much or created a sale for the salespeople.

    She wanted an Accord first but with the price she got for the Accord and the typical arrogance of the Honda dealers, she has ruled out the Accord. I’ve heard about this arrogance from several people I work with, seen it myself while just casually looking at an Accord in 2006 and from what my Son told me when he was in the market for an Oddy in 2008. I think this arrogance is a Honda culture. It’s because of this, she asked me about Hyundai’s. The Hyundai Sonata was her second choice.

    If I were a betting man I’d put my money on the Altima from what I last heard from her even though she said it was about $200 more than the Sonata.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    the Altima from what I last heard from her even though she said it was about $200 more than the Sonata.

    She will choose another car over her favorite for $200! I think there is something seriously wrong with this woman.

    I think this arrogance is a Honda culture.

    Come on, isll is not arrogant. There are always exceptions.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    Has she actually driven all 3 cars? It sounds like discount is more important than the driving experience. Guess she doesn't care about "the feel of the road".

    Yes, she has driven all 3 and as far as she is concerned any of them is fine with her. She is one of the more senior secretaries in this joint and can probably afford a BMW if she wanted one so I don't think "the feel of the road " is important to her.

    If he does like it, no one else will. Maybe that is why she asked you about Hyundai's.

    I'd like to think she asked me about cars because she thinks I'm a know-it-all. ;)

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    She will choose another car over her favorite for $200! I think there is something seriously wrong with this woman.

    While she looked at the Accord first doesn't mean that it was going to be her choice no matter what. That may be what the Honda stores thought and because of that thinking she isn't going to buy one.

    I don't think she had a real favorite until she looked at the Altima.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    I don't think she had a real favorite until she looked at the Altima.

    If that is the car she prefers she should go for it. I can't believe $200 would make a difference in what car to buy. If she keeps the car for 4 years, it costs less than $5 a month, or $1 a week to drive the car she likes better.

    I use this method of calculating to justify every purchase. When I add them up I am broke, but at least I get what I want.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • karhill1karhill1 Member Posts: 165
    Send them to the Afghan border! Always amazes me how some people don't understand freedom. In this country people still have the freedom to not stand for the national anthem. Freedom does not mean freedom to do what "you", or I, want done! Oh, and taking a child to "the woodshed" does not produce favorable results, ever!
  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    I can't believe $200 would make a difference in what car to buy.

    I think you missed something here. The Altima costs about $200 more than the Sonata. Both the Altima and Sonata were a quite a bit less than the Accord. But the Accord is not even in the picture anymore, mainly because of the Honda attitude of selling.

    If she keeps the car for 4 years, it costs less than $5 a month, or $1 a week to drive the car she likes better.

    Like I said, this woman is paid pretty well, is not a payment buyer and she can't even smell $5 a month or $5 a week for that matter. But the smell she got from the Honda stores she can't forget.

    FWIW, she now owns a 2005 Civic so she recognizes quality but isn't going to be treated like she was.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    "Always amazes me how some people don't understand freedom."

    It definitely appears from your post that YOU don't understand it. Living in a country like America is a privilege, not just a right. Too many people sacrificed and died to make this possible. While you certainly have the "right" to remain seated during the National Anthem, it would indicate that you lack the respect for both your country and the freedom that it provides.

    It would also appear that you have never lost a loved one who died in armed conflict in order to allow you to post your thoughts here. I have---an uncle and a dear friend. It is because of poor child rearing techniques and the desire to be "politically correct" that we find citizens such as yourself walking among us. You may continue to exercise your freedom by sitting down during the National Anthem. The rest of us will continue to pay for your "right" to do so.

    As for the "woodshed", it is at times the only alternative. As an educator for 40 years, I did not support corporal punishment except as a last resort. There are a few "bad seeds" who pass through our educational system. When they don't listen to reason of any kind, they must not be allowed to interfere with those who want and deserve an education. It is at this point that a "woodshed" experience may be of some value. If it doesn't work, then there are institutions to which this person may be referred---reform schools and/or prison. People have certain "rights". Harming or interfering with the "rights" of others is not among them.

    I have to wonder. Is it possible that you were one of the three girls who drank the beer and ignored the flag? If not, you would make an ideal companion to their social circle.

    Richard
  • imidazol97imidazol97 Member Posts: 27,690
    edited July 2010
    > is at this point that a "woodshed" experience may be of some value. If it doesn't work, then there are institutions to which this person may be referred---reform schools and/or prison. People have certain "rights". Harming or interfering with the "rights" of others is not among them.

    But Richard, we have to think about their home life and the community in which they are growing up. It's not their fault that they are antisociety and criminal in some cases. It's the fault of their parents (parent). We need to try to help them rather than make them feel negatively about themselves. If we talk to them, and reason with them, they will understand what we want them to do.

    JUST KIDDING!!!! Wanted to get that caffeine flowing.

    We were treated to a week of news coverage video and print about how awful society was letting a 15 year old girl run in a gang setting (my assessment) with people who have no values. Then when he 16-year old boy friend was mad at another boy's remarks, he pulled out the gun he had been showing around during the day to the other "gang" members, and accidentally shot the girl friend.

    Where was the mother and father of this daughter? Letting her run in a group of that ilk was their fault. Instead the media treats it as society's fault. The usual pastor group that shows up for face time on local media at all such opportunities organized a protest at a local convention center which had a gun show scheduled for that weekend.

    Make no mistake, I feel very sorry for the girl and her parent. But I also accept the reality that it was a failure of parenting that she was running in that group. But there's an attempt to make the fault society's fault and government should fix it.

    I worked with many very responsible people who were reared in the South and if they had gotten in with anything similar to a bad group, their mother or father would have been waiting on the porch to straighten them out so that they didn't embarrass the family. Bless their hearts, how some parents have changed since then.

    2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,356
    In my area times are changing with Hyundai. A friend wanted a Sonata and tried to buy one. He said they would not deal at all and he ended up buying a Ford Fusion.

    I actually think that is a good thing for Hyundai that they are sticking to their guns a lot more on pricing.

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,356
    Richard said it much better than I could.

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • verdugoverdugo Member Posts: 2,288
    *appaluse* to both you and Richard.

    karhill1, yes, we do have freedom in this country. But at the same time, like Richard said, there is something called respect.

    If I'm about to enter a store I will hold the door for the next person. If I'm in a bus/train, I will give up my seat to an elderly person, pregnat woman, etc. I don't have to do it, but decent people do.

    To bring it on topic, I'm curteous to car salesmen. :)
  • isellhondasisellhondas Member Posts: 20,342
    Good job! I hope that other poster disappears!
  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    In this country people still have the freedom to not stand for the national anthem.

    Richard is the diplomat here but I ain’t. People that don’t stand for our National Anthem have freedom alright but only to have their [non-permissible content removed] kicked. Plain and simple.

    Oh, and taking a child to "the woodshed" does not produce favorable results, ever!

    Richard touched on this also but I’d like to add that maybe the first trip there won’t do it but a few might. And if that doesn’t work there are places that are more persuasive. Pampering will only work so long, and then action is required.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • Kirstie_HKirstie_H Administrator Posts: 11,242
    edited July 2010
    Freedom, in a constitutional sense (First Amendment applies here), exempts one from prosecution by the government for one's "speech." It does not, however, exempt one from disdain, nor from social consequences or any other consequences from that which is "said."

    If I were the owner of the establishment at which this occurred, these people would be dis-invited to attend again... that's how I'd exercise my freedom.

    MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
    Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
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    Review your vehicle

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Thanks. Saved me from saying it and said it better than I would have.

    By all means one has a right to sit out the national anthem or even (hitting on an always hot button) even burn a flag as an expression of protest. Don't be surprised, however, when there are consequences to such actions.
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • karhill1karhill1 Member Posts: 165
    I do understand freedom. I respect the sacrifice that so many made. However, I recognize that sacrifice was made to allow everyone the freedom to sit or not sit for the national anthem. For what it is worth, I stand.

    Those scarifices were made so everyone can agree or disagree. Dissent, no matter how shown is the essence of Democracy. Far too many people today seem to think that only those who agree with them are worthy of the priviledge of living in a country like America. Far too many people strive to silence dissent in the name of patriotism.

    Oh, it really is not a priviledge for me to live in America, it is my right to live in America. I may, or maynot, disagree with those ladies, but I respect their right to do as they please.

    Regarding corporal punishment, no teacher has the right, or priviledge, to strike any child, never. If I, as a parent, do not strike my children why would I find it acceptable for a teacher to physically strike my child?

    If a child cannot behave in a respectful manner at school they should be expelled and placed in alternative education. I would not want to put any educator into a position of having to strike a child.

    Having raised three girls and having seen many other children and how they were raised, it seems any form of corporal punishment is senseless and useless. I can say without hestitation, I never once laid a hand in or out of the woodshed on any of my girls. I respected them far too much to physically abuse them. One is a micro-biologist, one is an engineer, and one is studying early education. All question authority from time to time.
  • isellhondasisellhondas Member Posts: 20,342
    edited July 2010
    I am really resisting the urge to dump on you in such a fashion that would probably incur the wrath of the hosts.

    So, I shall temper my response.

    As an American, you are a disgrace.
  • verdugoverdugo Member Posts: 2,288
    However, I recognize that sacrifice was made to allow everyone the freedom to sit or not sit for the national anthem

    Don't confuse lack of education/respect with freedom.
  • cdnpinheadcdnpinhead Member Posts: 5,620
    the Pledge of Allegiance or the Anthem, but I'm happy to stand silently while others do.

    After all, it's not my country, but I do wish to respect those to whom it is.
    '08 Acura TSX, '17 Subaru Forester
  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,135
    I go away for awhile and a "freedom" outbreak occurs. Funny how immigrants, or families of immigrants have a much different view of Freedom than those who have experienced many generations of total freedom in this country perceive it.

    Oooooooohhhhhhhh....want to say so much but probably shouldn't. Just had a (minor) heart attack and shouldn't upset myself.

    cdnpinhead.....appreciate your courtesy being Canadian. FWIW, I stand for your country's anthem when they come to town to play ball, too.
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    I know that I speak for everyone here when I say that we are so sorry to hear about your heart attack. Bad things do happen to the nicest people at times. Be sure to follow your doctor's advice and take good care of yourself. We need you here because you write well, give good advice, have interesting experiences, and are one of the nicest posters on this sight.

    As for getting upset about the recent post, don't. Though it angered me, I chewed a piece of gum, smoked two cigarettes, drank a cup of tea, and tried to post without using any curse words. Basically, adults never change their opinions or philosophies about things. Though it saddens me to know that some feel that any action is appropriate as long as it doesn't break the law, I cannot change their view. Still, I find comfort in knowing that most citizens love their country, instill the best values in their children, and try to do what is right and just. As long as most of us feel this way, America will be safe, productive, and a model for others to admire.

    Richard
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    appreciate your courtesy being Canadian. FWIW, I stand for your country's anthem when they come to town to play ball, too

    It is two great democratic countries who not only respect their own country, but also their great neighboring country.

    When you see what goes on in other countries, you have to really appreciate what we have.

    Hopefully, those two girls might grow up one day and realize they should be happy to have been born in such a great country...but I guess the chances of that happening are not so great.

    I don't know if you saw the pictures of the anarchists and the anti-capitalism and anti-poverty people and the Black Bloc at the G20 conference in Toronto a few weeks ago. I thought it was funny that one anti-Capitalist young woman was sent to prison and bail was set at $30,000. She was complaining about how bad it was to be in prison. Her wealthy capitalist father had to go and bail her out!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    You, Driver, Boom, and others who are not American citizens have always been respectful and courteous on this site. We couldn't be happier that you are here. Thanks for your comment.

    Richard
  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    Oh, it really is not a priviledge for me to live in America, it is my right to live in America. I may, or maynot, disagree with those ladies, but I respect their right to do as they please.

    I don't know where you came up with that one but I totally disagree with it. It is a privilege to live here not your right. Both you and I were lucky enough to be born here so we reap all the benefits. Go ask someone who has come to this country from wherever they came from and I’m sure they’ll tell you they came here because they wanted our way of life. Otherwise they would have stayed put.

    I for one do not respect anyone who doesn’t have respect for our country and what it meagerly asks of its citizens in showing their gratitude for living here.

    You just continue to dig yourself a deeper hole with your attempts to explain your thoughts.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    I wish to be very careful in my response to you. I love and enjoy this site, and I do not wish to upset our Hosts or any of our posters and/or lurkers. Allow me to briefly make one or two points:

    1. "Oh, it really is not a privilege for me to live in America..."
    The definition of "privilege" is a right or advantage not enjoyed by others. I believe that it is safe to say that yes, it is a privilege to live in America.

    2. "For what it is worth, I stand"
    Though you stand, it is what you are thinking that equates to a lack of respect for our flag, anthem, etc. Standing is a gesture. It is what the heart feels that counts.

    3. Dissent, no matter how shown is the essence of Democracy."
    I think that most would agree with that statement. As a member of a TEA Party group myself, I have shown some dissent during the last year. Still, no matter how much I disagree, I would never decide to show disrespect for the flag, anthem, etc. What ever our station or position in life, there is an area of respect and decency that should be shown at all times.

    4. "One is a micro-biologist, one is an engineer, and one is..."
    I am sure that you are proud of your daughters being in professional fields. Whether they are professionals or day laborers, it is their love of country and kin that count the most. I have known some doctors, lawyers, ministers, etc. who lacked the moral values and work ethics so expected and desired from others. Personal drive and achievement should not be equated with respect and courtesy toward others.

    5. I would wish that you are a happy person, but I suspect that this may not be the case. Perhaps it is best that you found us. If you become a regular reader of this site, you will find former vets, educators, car salesmen, retail professionals, etc. who love their country, respect the symbols of America, and would defend any person's right to express an opinion. We express many opinions here. Yours is one. Though it is different from most here, it is one.

    Richard
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    It's interesting how quiet times in the sales frontlines can lead to random off-topic issues. As interesting as they might be, we have to draw the line particularly when they lead to discord among the members. Let's just drop the patriotism, freedom, national anthem etc. discussion - now. We insist. :)

    Anyone with a good frontlines story gets a gold star.

    tidester, host
    SUVs and Smart Shopper
  • verdugoverdugo Member Posts: 2,288
    Just had a (minor) heart attack and shouldn't upset myself.

    GG,

    Sorry to hear. It sounds like you're on the road to recovery. I hope it's quick and painless. Best wishes!

    A.
  • tifightertifighter Member Posts: 3,795
    Best wishes on a speedy recovery, GG. I'm sure you'll be back up to speed in no time ;)

    25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0

This discussion has been closed.

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