I have to say that I agree with Chewy. This isn't about not discussing politics here, Pam, it's about how you say it. I think Chavez is a dangerous leader who is threarening the definition of 'democracy'. There is no doubt that he is a dictator in all but the fact that he was elected.

I just think that using derogetory and insulting words, is definitely NOT productive. There are many acceptable ways of stating ones animosity towards Chavez. He is so blasie about what he says, and how he takes what others say about him, that it wouldn't at all surprise me that he has people anylizing internet activity.....just like 'Uncle Sam' does, in a very big way.

Chavez IS so off the wall and self centered, that he just might get all hot and bothered about 'those Crystallex investors' that put him down constantly. We all don't think he is a very balanced leader, to say the least, However, constantly using very derogatory language cannot help, and really does say something about the level we will stoop to if we are thought to be done hard by. How different is that from what he says regarding the USA?

I think there is a fine line here that many don't see. This is not a put down of the members here, it is just stating there is a different way we could be seeing this which would keep us on the high road, and as Chewy said, not relating on Chavez's level of talk.

Wemust remember that most VZ people do not get the same news coverage that we do. Putting down their leader will not get us any browny points, nor help us in trying to win over the hearts and mines of the VZ people, which is what must happen in order to change the regime there. Name calling will not.

We are all extremely frustrated and more. Lets just try and it out on the squash court, or the pillows, or in yelling at the TV. We hopefully have at most another month. I trully believe that the powers that be in VZ want this over and done with. We would be out by now if Chavez/ministers could have found a way without creating a HUGE mess.

This may be getting old for them too. ( especially if they have shares too )

Penderite