Weblogic

The First Lady is closely watched for some hint of her husband’s thinking and for a clue to his future actions. She is not elected, carries no official duties, receives no salary, but her prominence provides her a platform from which to influence behavior and opinion. It has become increasingly common for first ladies to select specific causes to promote, usually ones that are not politically divisive. Additionally, many have taken an active role in campaigning for the President, but none so far have had a truly official position in governing as First Lady.

Question: What could our country do to make our First Lady more of an asset?

With Election Day fast approaching, so is over-the-top political bitterness. A likeness of vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin hanging by a noose from the roof of a Los Angeles house has sparked outrage among Republican supporters. Four college students in Oregon are punished for hanging an Obama effigy from a tree. A home's Halloween decorations features a doll of John McCain surrounded by "flames" in the chimney.

And the latest: Federal agents have broken up a plot to assassinate Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama and shoot or decapitate 102 black people, including schoolchildren, in a Tennessee murder spree planned by two neo-Nazi skinheads (see photo at left).

Question: Can anything be done about the political bitterness/hatred, and what does it say about the future of our country?

They mostly don’t care if you think they’re too big, too old and too intimidating to be trick-or-treating. To them, there are things in life more important than a stranger's disdain -- free Almond Joys, for example. Teens say they want to have a good time, they’re low on funds – and they’re shameless. They shrug off the annoyed responses when adults see them holding out their treat bags. One homeowner resents the big kids take the candy intended for the little ones. He has his own system for discouraging the older teens who ring his bell on Halloween. “You just don't give them the best candy," says this father. He thinks this beats getting your house egged.

Question:  What do you think the age limit should be for trick-or-treating?

In an effort to make the process easier, many states offer early voting to encourage people to get out and vote. There have been many reported instances of voter suppression including intimidation of non-English speaking voters and flyers being put posted in low income neighborhoods warning of possible arrest for outstanding warrants at polling places.

Question: Is early voting allowed in your state, and if so, have you seen any signs of voter suppression?