OT: Strange future for down-under? - Page 4

deccan · #31 July 18th, 2003, 02:59 AM

Sure, the costs of switching over would be great, but at least it would be a one-off cost. Once it's done, you'd get savings from not having to maintain dual-measurement systems.

I think the main obstacle isn't economic but cultural. Suggesting the change to the American public would probably be political suicide to any U.S. politician. This isn't an issue championed by any large voter base, so no one would want to expend precious political capital on it.

Baron Munchausen · #32 July 18th, 2003, 05:16 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by deccan:
I agree. It was obvious that the original article was a joke. The idea that Australia would join the U.S. is so ludicrous that it doesn't bear mentioning.

In the meantime, here's something for you to ponder:

What is the likelihood of California breaking away from the U.S. to form its own country?

...

Well, then they could apply to the IMF for help with their approaching backruptcy. They sure aren't gonna get any help from the Federal govt. while a Democrat is governor and Republicans control both the US Congress and the Whitehouse.

More than a few Americans might like to see that seperation, though. Some because of all the 'liberal politics' weirdness, and some just to get rid of Hollyweird. (Yeah, the two are linked to a certain extent...)

Thermodyne · #33 July 18th, 2003, 05:37 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by deccan:

In the meantime, here's something for you to ponder:

What is the likelihood of California breaking away from the U.S. to form its own country?

Slim and none. They can�t even make the sacrifices needed to balance the budget. How would they be able to suffer the cost of becoming a nation? But if they move to recall the governor, I think the north will again call for a partitioning of the state into two separate states.

Erax · #34 July 18th, 2003, 08:18 PM

Quote:

The terms Xmas and BBQ just don't go together.

Yes, unfortunately the US vision of Xmas, with the Coca-Cola Santa Claus, dominates our holiday down here. I feel sorry for the old Santas, wearing that heavy winter clothing and fake beards in 36 degrees (Celsius).

However... having New Year's Day at the height of summer really rocks. Throw a party at home, then as midnight approaches, walk out to the beach to see the fireworks, have your first swim of the new year in the warm tropical waters, then party on the beach until dawn.

atari_eric · #35 July 18th, 2003, 11:03 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Imperator Fyron:
The terms Xmas and BBQ just don't go together.

WHAT??? you live in Southern California, for cryin' out loud! The hot, inland portion, no less! BBQ Christmases should be a common occurence there. I live closer to the beach than you, and I'm used to it...

geoschmo · #36 July 19th, 2003, 01:39 AM

Actually, what's wrong with BBQ for Christmas? I love cooking out on the grill in the cold, even when it's snowing. As long as it's not raining so heavily that you can't keep the grill lit any time is BBQ time.

Geoschmo

Loser · #37 July 19th, 2003, 01:59 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by TerranC:
51st state - Puerto Rico
52, 53, 54, 55th states - England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
56th state - Iraq
57th state - Kurdistan
58th state - Australia

I have it on good authority that we should leave Wales alone.

Thermodyne · #38 July 19th, 2003, 04:08 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by geoschmo:
Actually, what's wrong with BBQ for Christmas? I love cooking out on the grill in the cold, even when it's snowing. As long as it's not raining so heavily that you can't keep the grill lit any time is BBQ time.

Geoschmo

Oh ya, nothing like grillen on the fire barrel

tbontob · #39 July 19th, 2003, 05:07 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Loser:

quote:
Originally posted by TerranC:
51st state - Puerto Rico
52, 53, 54, 55th states - England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
56th state - Iraq
57th state - Kurdistan
58th state - Australia

I have it on good authority that we should leave Wales alone.

Hmmm..... Canada is off the list.

For most of it's history, the US has eyed Canada.

If Quebec is about to separate, I would be willing to seriously consider amagation with the US.

TerranC · #40 July 19th, 2003, 10:57 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by tbontob:
Hmmm..... Canada is off the list.

That's because Canada is already american.

[ July 19, 2003, 21:57: Message edited by: TerranC ]