ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
CanadaThe Vent - Part 2
QUOTE (Rob and Mel @ Oct 16 2009, 07:28 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (trailmix @ Oct 15 2009, 11:33 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
This is a great example of the contrast. Americans (some, not all) say something like - if you have great insurance you have exceptional care, if you have bad insurance or none, then the care is not good.

Canadians (most, not all) say, if everyone isn't getting great treatment - then the care is not good.

That's the difference.

Imagine never having your job tied to your Health insurance, imagine never having to worry about health insurance at all. If you need to see a Dr. you do, if you need your leg set, they set it, no questions asked, no payment required.

Imagine never getting a letter from a health insurance company asking for a co-pay or just sending you a statement every single time you see a Dr. - to tell you that you aren't covered as you have not met your deductable for the year.

Imagine never having to fill out a form or prove to anyone you are worthy of paying for their coverage.


I highly doubt that a plurality of Canadians judge the quality of their care on what citizens as a whole have. I've read a myriad of reviews just about the differences in quality of care from province to province. The range of care at the top end is second to none on the planet, period, conversely, so is the quality of care for those who don't have insurance. I take umbrage at the generalization that American Healthcare is putrid and the be all end all sin of the world. It is in fact the insurance companies that are the problem. The problem is not the doctors or the level of care, it's the availability and massive greed from the insurance companies.

I was hoping that with the new President, someone would have the balls to institute a NHS, but seeing how things are going, I'll take any improvement. The sad part is that if there is a public option introduced, my quality of care will diminish. I will no longer be in a network where I have access to any treatment, medication or procedure that will help me regardless of fees. My employer would dump this package and send us all to the public healthcare system which especially where I live would be overburdened. But, it's the right thing to do, as a citizen I wholeheartedly support it.

That's already happened to me in Canada.

I had fantastic health insurance in the U.S. and the quality of care was second to none. I come to Canada and it's "take a number, we'll see you in a few months." That's IF you can find a doctor who's accepting patients.

I know some people will say it's nice when you don't have to pay up front. Well, maybe it is, but living in BC requires me to pay BOTH in taxes and health care premiums. That's just for the basic provincial coverage. I also need private health insurance to cover my medication as the price of medication is astronomical. That's not to say medication is cheap in the U.S., but if I need health insurance to pay for the drugs (like in the U.S.) the overall "benefit" of Canadian health care greatly diminishes.

I'm scheduled to have surgery done. When? No clue. They won't tell me or even give me a general estimate. For all I know I could get the surgery next week or in six months. I've already waited two months. Yes, I realize some people might say that's "not too bad." However, I could get a surgical procedure performed in a week or so (at worst) after making the arrangements for it when I lived in the United States.

I realize American health care isn't "fair for some" but Canadian health care seems "unfair for some" as well. Even if you have the means to pay for better health care (i.e. private) you still can't get it since it's not offered. You're stuck waiting in line to even see a GP, let alone a specialist or surgery.

My father-in-law went down to Seattle in order to get some tests and a procedure done. It cost him, but he got everything done IMMEDIATELY. His only other option was to wait months in Canada.

I'm not particularly impressed with Canadian health care. Maybe it's the province I live in. Whatever the case, I really prefer American health care.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-10-16 11:22:00
CanadaThe Vent - Part 2
My rant? Jobs. No, I don't hate mine. For that I'd actually NEED to have one.

PART ONE
I've been in Canada for over a year (about one year and two months) and even though a small part of that time was waiting for my SIN card, the rest has been desperately trying to find work. No one is hiring. I haven't been picky, either. For example, I've applied for stockroom work at London Drugs. That's hardly the most celebrated line of work and I was TURNED DOWN!

They partly explained their decision by stating I'm "overqualified" for the job. They said I wouldn't stay if a better paying job came around. Of course I'd jump ship if a better position and higher paying job came up, but who wouldn't? Let's be honest -- who actually makes a career out of being a stockboy? They have to know that applicants to that line of work are temporary at best.

Another part in their decision -- although they never outright said this to me -- was that I "failed" their online exam. London Drugs makes you take a test online in which you're presented with five options ranging from strongly agree to strongly disagree with neutral in the middle. I answered "neutral" to some questions. Life isn't black and white and sometimes different situations call for different solutions.

I guess they didn't like that.

My problem with tests like these is that they're inaccurate. Who is going to answer "yes?" when given a question like: "Would you steal supplies if you could get away with it?" A moron maybe, but 99.9% of people will answer "no" and to make matters worse, most people know how to beat these tests. All you do is answer in such a way that presents you as the ideal employee. In other words, you tell them what they want to hear, even if you're lying through your teeth.

PART TWO
I've been volunteering as a teacher at the local community center. I teach people how to use computers (i.e. MS Word, image editing, e-mail, the Internet and believe it or not, Facebook and Twitter). While that's enjoyable, it doesn't pay the bills. I asked the volunteer coordinator if there were any local city jobs (the community center is paid for and operated by the city government) and he said, "No." I got an e-mail tonight from someone recently hired and brand new to the community center, who has apparently taken over the job of the old coordinator (who was moved to a higher position).

She seemed nice and all, but... how did she get hired if there no jobs available? The only answer is that I was fed a lie. I suppose they want to keep me as a volunteer. If they didn't want to hire me or there are some sort of prerequisites necessary to work there, I would've appreciated being told that. Getting lied to and then expected to keep volunteering there is a bit insulting.


DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-10-15 21:07:00
CanadaThe Vent - Part 2
QUOTE (Sprailenes @ Oct 14 2009, 07:49 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (ScooterMac @ Oct 14 2009, 10:39 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Sprailenes @ Oct 14 2009, 10:31 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thats the funny part about ADD/ADHD.

If you are doing a test, the last thing you want is more time to study/work. ADD/ADHD students want to get in and out of an exam, assignment as quick as possible in most cases. Yes the extra time is welcomed, especially for the parents but for the person with the ADD, it isn't.

If a person is asking for more time because they think they may have ADD/ADHD, then to me that would just scream: FAKER! laughing.gif


Eh, it really depends on how bad I was doing that day at focusing. If I was having trouble pulling it together, I may need longer on a test, especially essay tests. Most schools won't let you have time extensions and other aplicable accomodations unless you have a note from a doctor stating the diagnosis.

Mostly, I just used the "I need a quiet room to test in" accomodation. I got distracted easily by other kids around me during testing.


Here in NJ, they ask that you have a note from a psychologist once a year. I find that funny since ADD/ADHD doesn't just magically go away.

It costs a lot to have your kids evaluated. Last year I told the school to pay for it if they wanted it so badly. That sure changed their tune fast.

I learned a lot fast in the two years of being here though. The school system is kind of twisted.

How would a psychologist help? If the kid (supposedly) requires medication, he'd need to see a psychiatrist.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-10-14 11:53:00
CanadaThe Vent - Part 2
QUOTE (Varba @ Oct 14 2009, 05:23 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
At least you realize that kids do scream and don't think they are broken and try to cram them full of ritalin. wink.gif

Yeah, ADD/ADHD is diagnosed way too often.

My brother had a very bad case of ADHD growing up and actually did NEED medication like Ritalin. If he didn't get it, he'd get up and walk around the class and act like a screwball. While that'd be highly entertaining, it's not conducive to a learning environment.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-10-14 07:59:00
CanadaThe Vent - Part 2
QUOTE (Carlawarla @ Oct 14 2009, 03:35 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (DeadPoolX @ Oct 14 2009, 05:30 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I went to bed last night at 7PM and I just woke up. Normally I stay up late, but the last few days have been utterly exhausting.

My wife and I went to visit her parents (whom I like) for Thanksgiving. My wife's sister, brother-in-law (who I guess is my BIL too) and their three kids were there as well.

I know I've made it known that I don't particularly care for children. This is true, but I expected the kids there. It was a holiday and family gets together then.

I tried playing with the kids this time. It was possible to actually talk to them since the oldest was six and the middle child was four. The youngest is still a baby, so he wasn't doing a whole lot besides screaming. In the right (or wrong) hands, that kid could be a sonic weapon.

For the most part, we all had a good time. I even had fun with the kids. However, towards the end of the visit, the kids were wearing on my wife, my father-in-law and me. The problem is that the kids never stop yelling and running around. I understand that young kids do that, but it makes it very difficult -- if not impossible -- to have an adult conversation or even turn our attention away from the kids for a moment.

Another problem was that my SIL and BIL were supposed to leave a day before we did and they didn't. My wife and I had to get up early the next morning to catch the ferry and all night long we heard kids moving about, yelling and the baby screaming his lungs off. Once again, I understand kids can do that, but it's really rude to keep everyone in the house up all night, especially when some of them had to wake up early. Needless to say, my wife and I were exhausted for our long trip home.

Because my SIL and BIL were supposed to leave before us, my wife had hoped she could have some non-kid time with her parents -- the kind where you can actually hear yourself think. She was looking forward to watching a movie with them, but when my SIL and BIL decided to stay longer, that idea was scrubbed. Their kids can't sit still or remain quiet, which makes watching a movie damn near impossible.

I know some people here might suggest: "why didn't you take care of the kids for a couple of hours so your wife and her sister could actually have some time to talk?" Great idea, but... my SIL is so protective of her kids, she won't even let her husband watch them. I'm sure that works out for him, but the point remains that getting her away from her kids would prove even more difficult than getting her kids to calm down.

To top this all off, we spent over eight hours getting home. That trip consisting of two ferry rides (both of which were late and one of them was redirected), a long drive home which was massively complicated by insane traffic, heavy rain, random construction and both of us were tired before we even left.


I remember previous postings about your SIL and BIL's kids. Glad you did get to spend SOME time with them when they weren't so active and loud! I know what you mean, and I myself had kids! I love adult conversation without interruptions with screaming kids ... laughing.gif

This might be a really good reason to go up and visit with your in-laws without your SIL and BIL coming. Go for a weekend just the two of you, and spend some really nice time alone with them.

It's nice when families can get together, but yes, all the noise, lack of personal space, kids staying up too late, the kids not being in their home environment with their own toys and space, can be grating on the nerves.

If your in-laws are about to visit you, having them down for a weekend on their own is a good plan as well!

We did that during the summer and it was nice. Not only due to the lack of screaming children, but the weather was beautiful and conducive to outdoor activities.

The next time my wife and I are visiting her parents is Christmas. Yeah, the kids will definitely be there and that's fine. It's Christmas, so I'd expect them there. However, my wife and I plan to stagger our visit this time, so we have a couple of childless days. tongue.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-10-14 05:56:00
CanadaThe Vent - Part 2
I went to bed last night at 7PM and I just woke up. Normally I stay up late, but the last few days have been utterly exhausting.

My wife and I went to visit her parents (whom I like) for Thanksgiving. My wife's sister, brother-in-law (who I guess is my BIL too) and their three kids were there as well.

I know I've made it known that I don't particularly care for children. This is true, but I expected the kids there. It was a holiday and family gets together then.

I tried playing with the kids this time. It was possible to actually talk to them since the oldest was six and the middle child was four. The youngest is still a baby, so he wasn't doing a whole lot besides screaming. In the right (or wrong) hands, that kid could be a sonic weapon.

For the most part, we all had a good time. I even had fun with the kids. However, towards the end of the visit, the kids were wearing on my wife, my father-in-law and me. The problem is that the kids never stop yelling and running around. I understand that young kids do that, but it makes it very difficult -- if not impossible -- to have an adult conversation or even turn our attention away from the kids for a moment.

Another problem was that my SIL and BIL were supposed to leave a day before we did and they didn't. My wife and I had to get up early the next morning to catch the ferry and all night long we heard kids moving about, yelling and the baby screaming his lungs off. Once again, I understand kids can do that, but it's really rude to keep everyone in the house up all night, especially when some of them had to wake up early. Needless to say, my wife and I were exhausted for our long trip home.

Because my SIL and BIL were supposed to leave before us, my wife had hoped she could have some non-kid time with her parents -- the kind where you can actually hear yourself think. She was looking forward to watching a movie with them, but when my SIL and BIL decided to stay longer, that idea was scrubbed. Their kids can't sit still or remain quiet, which makes watching a movie damn near impossible.

I know some people here might suggest: "why didn't you take care of the kids for a couple of hours so your wife and her sister could actually have some time to talk?" Great idea, but... my SIL is so protective of her kids, she won't even let her husband watch them. I'm sure that works out for him, but the point remains that getting her away from her kids would prove even more difficult than getting her kids to calm down.

To top this all off, we spent over eight hours getting home. That trip consisting of two ferry rides (both of which were late and one of them was redirected), a long drive home which was massively complicated by insane traffic, heavy rain, random construction and both of us were tired before we even left.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-10-14 05:30:00
CanadaThe Vent - Part 2
QUOTE (Malrothien @ Oct 13 2009, 06:47 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (DeadPoolX @ Oct 12 2009, 07:54 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Malrothien @ Oct 12 2009, 07:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
DPX, don't post about Metrotown. I have to hear about it enough from the hubby. tongue.gif

I agree, though, Cactus Club has the nicest bathrooms.

I'm curious, where in Van are you?

I live in the Tri-Cities area, which consists of Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody. I really don't like it there. The people are real a$$holes and can't drive for $hit.

My wife and I would like to move to North Vancouver or maybe even Victoria at some point.

Where are you located?



Coquitlam, lol.

Then you know what I'm talking about! tongue.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-10-14 04:51:00
CanadaThe Vent - Part 2
QUOTE (Malrothien @ Oct 12 2009, 07:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
DPX, don't post about Metrotown. I have to hear about it enough from the hubby. tongue.gif

I agree, though, Cactus Club has the nicest bathrooms.

I'm curious, where in Van are you?

I live in the Tri-Cities area, which consists of Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody. I really don't like it there. The people are real a$$holes and can't drive for $hit.

My wife and I would like to move to North Vancouver or maybe even Victoria at some point.

Where are you located?
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-10-12 21:54:00
CanadaThe Vent - Part 2
QUOTE (beans @ Oct 12 2009, 06:45 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Men's restrooms for the most part are ten times more disgusting than womens...lol I remember once back in Canada I was working night audit and the hotel was empty and I had to pee...for sake of adventure I went into the men's restroom....WHAT A DUMP it was horrible. on the women's side there is tons of stalls and nice little hand towels..I almost felt bad for them..needless to say I walked back to the women's restroom and went there.

I've seen restrooms where there's urine all over the floor and feces actually smeared on the toilet. It's not at all unusual to find someone's leftover "remains" in a toilet. Many mens restrooms lack paper towels and even soap. If there are any hand dryers, they're usually broken.

Some of the worst restrooms have been in malls (like Metrotown and West Ed) and especially movie theaters. The Silvercity movie theater near me has a restroom that nearly made me vomit (and that's really tough to do).

While not gross, the local library's restroom never has any paper towels. I'm not exaggerating here. I've been to that library tons and tons of times and it has yet to stock one paper towel. What I find odd about that is it's a freaking library -- you'd think they'd want people with DRY hands touching their books.

The best restroom I've ever seen is at Cactus Club. Those bathrooms are spotless, always stocked and best of all, the toilet seats have plastic protectors on them (which rotate with each use) and the flush mechanism is on the floor, so you never have to touch it.

Oh and just because my above examples have been from Canada, that does in no way mean American mens restrooms are any cleaner. It's rare to find a clean restroom anywhere.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-10-12 21:21:00
CanadaThe Vent - Part 2
QUOTE (charles! @ Oct 10 2009, 01:00 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (MrsCat @ Oct 10 2009, 02:02 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (trailmix @ Oct 10 2009, 12:56 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Did he at least apologize!


Nope. He just told me where he was born and headed out the door. laughing.gif

you need to take him "seal hunting" tongue_ss.gif

That post gets my official "seal" of approval. star_smile.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-10-10 06:17:00
CanadaThe Vent - Part 2
The only reason I even keep Facebook is because it's an easy way to communicate with my brother. I may have a long-distance plan that covers both Canada and the U.S., but he doesn't. So calling up here would cost him a ton of money.

If he had a similar plan to mine, I'd dump FB in a heart beat. It's annoying as all hell.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-16 13:23:00
CanadaWhy Canada sucks...
Here is my evidence. biggrin.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-29 12:08:00
CanadaWhat's wrong with this story?
Whatever she was doing there, it wasn't a smart move to be a 13 year-old girl on a bus at 2:30 AM.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-29 14:01:00
CanadaGiving away a pet...
This reminded me of something I saw one time in Houston.

There was a Thai buffet and a PetCo situated side-by-side. I'm saying anything happened there, but... that PetCo always looked closed. unsure.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-30 16:34:00
CanadaGiving away a pet...
QUOTE (thetreble @ Jul 29 2009, 11:38 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Agreed.

We have had him since February so we've had awhile with him now.

One of the biggest problems I have is that when I have my days off I feel like I take care of them all day. My husband isn't really home enough to help me because he works long hours so he looks after them on his days off by himself and I do the same on the weekends alone. It's hard because I feel like I can't go anywhere. And if we wanted to go away for a weekend, I don't like kennels, and my in laws don't like taking care of both of them.

BUT- my day-time dog walker, Dave, says I need to get over that. If I need to go out for the night, that it's okay to leave them alone. That they are "at home" in their cage. I think I have to start getting a better attitude about that.

Okay, this may sound odd, but what about Doggy Daycare? I've seen places like that before in Canada (specifically Vancouver and Edmonton). I don't know if it exists in the U.S. and if it does, where exactly. But it's something to look into.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-29 13:45:00
CanadaGiving away a pet...
If you HAVE to give away your pet, I'd recommend your nearest SPCA if you can't find someone yourself. My wife and I volunteer with the BCSPCA and they take fantastic care of the animals and have a very thorough screening process for potential owners.

Edited by DeadPoolX, 29 July 2009 - 12:07 PM.

DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-29 12:06:00
CanadaMost Customer Friendly US Bank?
I really like TD. I'd rather not have to keep a balance to avoid monthly fees, but at least I can avoid them somehow.

I was originally looking at RBC because my wife banks with them, but every account option costs a monthly fee. That's insane when the account isn't even interest-bearing! I'd be better off hiding my money away in a mattress. tongue.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-30 16:32:00
CanadaMost Customer Friendly US Bank?
QUOTE (SapphireDreams @ Jul 30 2009, 09:22 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I know all you WaMu customers might beg to differ - but Chase is a great bank in NYC. It's on every corner. I am very impressed by their service and features and convenience.

I guess it's all relative. For me, convenience is the most important thing. They are located 2 blocks from my house and like I said on every corner in Manhattan. I wouldn't go with any other bank here.

I'm sure Chase is a good bank. However, with most businesses, the problem lies with communication and the employees themselves. In that respect, I think Chase did a poor job with me. For others that may have not been the case.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-30 11:25:00
CanadaMost Customer Friendly US Bank?
QUOTE (Sam and Ben @ Jul 30 2009, 08:58 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (DeadPoolX @ Jul 30 2009, 11:32 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Sam and Ben @ Jul 30 2009, 08:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (DeadPoolX @ Jul 30 2009, 11:08 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Sam and Ben @ Jul 30 2009, 07:18 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (DeadPoolX @ Jul 29 2009, 12:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (thetreble @ Jul 29 2009, 09:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yeah like that's what I mean, Deadpool. The rules that they change once a merger has happened but it's in the fine print.

It's not the stuff like, "Your online login will be the same" because that is WELL communicated.

It's the " You used to have free savings but now there is a minimum limit you have to keep in there without charge"

I may not like the limits and/or monthly charges that Canadian banks use, but at least they're upfront about it and tell you right on their damn website. Finding useful information on Chase's website is like expecting a deeply philosophical discussion in World of Warcraft. tongue.gif


Come on, now. You just aren't looking in the right places. Barrens has some of the most thought-provoking discussions I've ever come across online...


This discussion has me concerned, though. My fiance's bank is/was WaMu and though he has mentioned the switch (and how irritated he was that all of his account numbers changed and he didn't know the new numbers), he didn't mention any other changes. I wonder if he just isn't aware?

That's interesting... none of my account numbers changed. I wonder why his did. I'd have him check over his account data very carefully and if he finds anything the least bit questionable, call Chase.


That's interesting indeed. Both his checking and his savings account's numbers changed when his branch started to do the switch...

Were his accounts new? I've had my accounts for nearly two decades. If his accounts are newer, maybe they changed them? I don't know. None of it really makes much sense.


Whew. I did ask him about it. He's had the accounts for about half a decade, and when they went to switch over the accounts, he learned that his dad was still listed from when he first signed up with the bank. In order to remove the other name, I guess they had to switch all of the account numbers (or likely, reopen new accounts, same details, etc?).

So although related to the switch, not caused by. wacko.gif

How old is your husband? It sounds like he had a custodial account, where his dad was the primary holder.

When switching accounts he probably had to close the old account and make a new one. That would explain the different account number. I did that years ago with WaMu (I had a money market account and switched to a platinum savings account) and Fidelity Investments.

So long as Chase isn't extracting money from his accounts and everything "seems okay," you're probably all right. Once again, I'd recommend keeping a sharp eye on Chase -- especially if your husband has ANY account type besides a free checking account.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-30 11:07:00
CanadaMost Customer Friendly US Bank?
QUOTE (Sam and Ben @ Jul 30 2009, 08:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (DeadPoolX @ Jul 30 2009, 11:08 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Sam and Ben @ Jul 30 2009, 07:18 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (DeadPoolX @ Jul 29 2009, 12:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (thetreble @ Jul 29 2009, 09:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yeah like that's what I mean, Deadpool. The rules that they change once a merger has happened but it's in the fine print.

It's not the stuff like, "Your online login will be the same" because that is WELL communicated.

It's the " You used to have free savings but now there is a minimum limit you have to keep in there without charge"

I may not like the limits and/or monthly charges that Canadian banks use, but at least they're upfront about it and tell you right on their damn website. Finding useful information on Chase's website is like expecting a deeply philosophical discussion in World of Warcraft. tongue.gif


Come on, now. You just aren't looking in the right places. Barrens has some of the most thought-provoking discussions I've ever come across online...


This discussion has me concerned, though. My fiance's bank is/was WaMu and though he has mentioned the switch (and how irritated he was that all of his account numbers changed and he didn't know the new numbers), he didn't mention any other changes. I wonder if he just isn't aware?

That's interesting... none of my account numbers changed. I wonder why his did. I'd have him check over his account data very carefully and if he finds anything the least bit questionable, call Chase.


That's interesting indeed. Both his checking and his savings account's numbers changed when his branch started to do the switch...

Were his accounts new? I've had my accounts for nearly two decades. If his accounts are newer, maybe they changed them? I don't know. None of it really makes much sense.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-30 10:32:00
CanadaMost Customer Friendly US Bank?
QUOTE (Sam and Ben @ Jul 30 2009, 07:18 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (DeadPoolX @ Jul 29 2009, 12:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (thetreble @ Jul 29 2009, 09:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yeah like that's what I mean, Deadpool. The rules that they change once a merger has happened but it's in the fine print.

It's not the stuff like, "Your online login will be the same" because that is WELL communicated.

It's the " You used to have free savings but now there is a minimum limit you have to keep in there without charge"

I may not like the limits and/or monthly charges that Canadian banks use, but at least they're upfront about it and tell you right on their damn website. Finding useful information on Chase's website is like expecting a deeply philosophical discussion in World of Warcraft. tongue.gif


Come on, now. You just aren't looking in the right places. Barrens has some of the most thought-provoking discussions I've ever come across online...


This discussion has me concerned, though. My fiance's bank is/was WaMu and though he has mentioned the switch (and how irritated he was that all of his account numbers changed and he didn't know the new numbers), he didn't mention any other changes. I wonder if he just isn't aware?

That's interesting... none of my account numbers changed. I wonder why his did. I'd have him check over his account data very carefully and if he finds anything the least bit questionable, call Chase.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-30 10:08:00
CanadaMost Customer Friendly US Bank?
QUOTE (thetreble @ Jul 29 2009, 09:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yeah like that's what I mean, Deadpool. The rules that they change once a merger has happened but it's in the fine print.

It's not the stuff like, "Your online login will be the same" because that is WELL communicated.

It's the " You used to have free savings but now there is a minimum limit you have to keep in there without charge"

I may not like the limits and/or monthly charges that Canadian banks use, but at least they're upfront about it and tell you right on their damn website. Finding useful information on Chase's website is like expecting a deeply philosophical discussion in World of Warcraft. tongue.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-29 11:55:00
CanadaMost Customer Friendly US Bank?
QUOTE (thetreble @ Jul 29 2009, 08:37 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (scandal @ Jul 29 2009, 09:45 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm going through the Wamu/Chase conversion too.

I first became a Wamu customer about 10 years ago when we lived in California. I had started banking with Wells Fargo in the US, got fed up with their high fees and commissions on every damn service, and went to Wamu for the no-frills no-fuss no-fee checking accounts. They also rebated other bank's ATM fees, and heck - they even provided no-cost credit scoring!


I think the problem is where I live. Seems like you guys out on the West Coast have been okay with the conversion. Seems like they are having quite a few problems over here on the East Coast with the accounts.

I've now been without a debit card for almost 2 weeks. laughing.gif I can't take out money. The closest Chase bank to me is like 25 minutes away and with my work hours, I'm not home in time to get in there as I get home at around 7 and they close at 6 I believe.

I opened up WaMu accounts because my best friend worked there and gave me no hassles.

They also had great no hassle, no fees, etc. which was sweet. Also, no min. balance required and at the time we were POOR. haha

Thanks for the advice, guys. It's been really good so far.

I had WaMu for years and I really liked them. When they switched over to Chase, they started deducting $10 per month out of my savings account WITHOUT telling me. I first noticed after they'd withdrawn $80 (none of which they agreed to refund). It was bad enough they started taking money out of my savings account, but to do so with NO warning?

I called Chase up and complained about this. They said they recently instituted a monetary limit (for savings accounts) in which you must stay above it or get charged. I asked them why they didn't tell me about this and they said, "You need to ask." blink.gif

What the ** is it which organizations -- private or government -- who have these rules that break down into: "You need to know before we do something and therefore ask before there's a problem." How am I supposed to KNOW if it hasn't occurred yet?

Anyway... I immediately destroyed my savings account and moved all the money over to my checking account (which is still free, even with Chase). If it weren't for the fact that opening a BoA account might be difficult and confusing for them when I'm in Canada, I'd switch.

Edited by DeadPoolX, 29 July 2009 - 11:12 AM.

DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-29 11:11:00
CanadaFavorite Things About Where You Live(d)?
QUOTE (Misty1979 @ Aug 6 2009, 10:56 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (DeadPoolX @ Aug 6 2009, 02:37 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Misty1979 @ Aug 6 2009, 10:06 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Victoria BC: -The multi-cultural food, especially the amazing east indian and thai restaurants. Pubs galore with yummy food and good prices. The multi-culturalism in general. The awesome transportation system which meant you could walk or bus pretty much anywhere you wanted to go. The variety of cute/quaint mom and pop type stores. China town! The Boardwalk which it's gorgeous view of the inner harbor while walking to and from work. The Empress hotel. The Parliament buildings with their 2000 or so lights surrounding the outside of the building glowing at night.

It's more like...what don't I miss about Victoria/Canada?

How about needing to ride a ferry in order to get off Vancouver Island? tongue.gif

I really like Victoria. In fact, I like it a lot more than Vancouver. I just dislike the idea of needing a ferry to get back to the mainland.

Well you could hop on a plane..if you like insane turbelence and enough bumping up and down of the aircraft that you have to get drunk in order to escape the fear of dying. I've always liked the ferry though...so peaceful and relaxing and if you're on there during the morning hours, they have a yummy breakfast at one of their restaurants.

Tofino Air isn't so bad. The flight takes all of 15 minutes, but the plane is unbelievably cramped. I'd rather take a ferry than that.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-06 14:08:00
CanadaFavorite Things About Where You Live(d)?
QUOTE (Sprailenes @ Aug 6 2009, 10:38 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You don't need a ferry... you can always ride back on a whale... or something.

That would be awesome.

QUOTE (Marilyn. @ Aug 6 2009, 10:39 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I loved the ferry ride from Vancouver Island to Vancouver...

Oh, it's a very nice ferry ride, but I get restless sitting for that long. Plus I hate all the a$$holes who go rushing through the ship in order to eat at the cafeteria (which, for some reason or another, never accept debit or credit).
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-06 13:41:00
CanadaFavorite Things About Where You Live(d)?
QUOTE (Misty1979 @ Aug 6 2009, 10:06 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Victoria BC: -The multi-cultural food, especially the amazing east indian and thai restaurants. Pubs galore with yummy food and good prices. The multi-culturalism in general. The awesome transportation system which meant you could walk or bus pretty much anywhere you wanted to go. The variety of cute/quaint mom and pop type stores. China town! The Boardwalk which it's gorgeous view of the inner harbor while walking to and from work. The Empress hotel. The Parliament buildings with their 2000 or so lights surrounding the outside of the building glowing at night.

It's more like...what don't I miss about Victoria/Canada?

How about needing to ride a ferry in order to get off Vancouver Island? tongue.gif

I really like Victoria. In fact, I like it a lot more than Vancouver. I just dislike the idea of needing a ferry to get back to the mainland.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-06 13:37:00
CanadaFavorite Things About Where You Live(d)?
QUOTE (Malrothien @ Aug 5 2009, 08:40 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Issaquah, WA: I loved the same things about Auburn Hills that you mentioned, except in Issaquah! I also loved the amount of choice when it came to different cuisines in our mid-sized town. I also loved how close to the mountains we were and how we always got more snow than Seattle.

Currently in Vancouver, BC: Nothing, really. There is so much rudeness and self-absorbtion here that it's very hard for me to handle (I'm from the Southern USA..). I wish we had been able to live in the Okanagan. People were so friendly there when we visited!

I'm from the southern U.S. as well (Texas) and I have to agree with you about Vancouver. The "nice and polite" Canadian stereotype is not alive and well here.

To be fair, however, there are plenty of rude individuals in the U.S. (and Texas), but maybe I didn't notice them as much. Maybe I also knew who and what areas to avoid, as well. When you move to a new place -- whether or not it's in your home country -- you're guaranteed to notice things that you wouldn't normally before.

Anyway... I certainly don't hate Vancouver. It's a very nice and beautiful city. The best part about being here is my wife and my inlaws. Yes, I said my inlaws. I really like my wife's parents and apparently they really like me. I'm very fortunate in that respect.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-05 13:40:00
CanadaVJers who have outstayed their welcome
QUOTE (trailmix @ Aug 6 2009, 05:49 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Personally I say stay as long as you like!

I get what you are saying about people being jerks - I mean they are here (not in the Canada forum) - but I think that is beside the point as to where they are in their immigration journey.

Aside from being an immigration forum, this is also a social forum.

Hey! What am I, chopped liver? jest.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-09 08:44:00
CanadaEver had doubts?
QUOTE (Krikit @ Jul 19 2009, 06:37 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Holy. I had to stop reading your post, lgg, because your avatar was about to give me seizures. laughing.gif

Look like Kermit had the same problem...
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-19 16:23:00
CanadaCAD money orders purchased in the US
QUOTE (sweet_peach @ Aug 14 2009, 09:42 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Does anyone know where someone could purchase a money order in CAD$ here in the US?

Try American Express Travel Agency. I know you can exchange USD for CAD there, so it's possible they'd do money orders as well.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-14 11:54:00
CanadaUS Healthcare going Public
QUOTE (thetreble @ Aug 14 2009, 07:56 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Social health care will never work in the US, nor will a one-party system.

The word of choice here is REFORM. Make it affordable.

good.gif

The United States and Canada are two very different countries when concerning health care. There are multiple reasons -- some major and others minor -- why the health care system in Canada would not work in the U.S. That said, even a small amount of reform might help many out.

Edited by DeadPoolX, 14 August 2009 - 10:59 AM.

DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-14 10:58:00
CanadaAlaskan Cruise???
QUOTE (mitch.snyder @ Aug 16 2009, 10:56 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (mitch.snyder @ Aug 16 2009, 09:28 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Rhiann @ Aug 16 2009, 07:03 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (mitch.snyder @ Aug 16 2009, 02:09 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Kathryn41 @ Aug 15 2009, 08:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yes, it would be a problem. The ship will leave US waters and enter a foreign country by going to Vancouver or elsewhere in Canada. That means you have left the US so even if you don't leave the ship you will run into problems. You can wait until after you file your AOS and get your AP (advance parole) and that way you wouldn't have a problem. The other thing to be looking at is when you go on your honeymoon - depending on the time of year you might want to choose another adventure:).


That's what I was afraid of.... Oh well... I'll just have to think of something else to do for our honeymoon within the US....


What about a Hawaiian cruise?
That's what I'm planning to do.
I mean, since there's no where to get off in between the Cali area and Hawaii, there shouldn't be any problem.
And another member did it, so it seems to be fine.



Yeah that would work... its just Hawaii is a lot more money compared to Alaska.... and with the thought of being unable to work until I get my EAD I dont really want to break the bank... so its finding the balance of still having a great honeymoon but not spending a ton of money....



I will be moving to Wisconsin.... and you're right Oregon is AMAZING!!!! It's beautiful there....

I think Canadians like Oregon because of the beaver on that state's flag. biggrin.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-16 13:25:00
CanadaVisa for Marriage/Engagement for Canadians
Holy #######! Meauxna? Where have you been? ohmy.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-15 12:32:00
CanadaOdd Pets
If I could, I'd own a Vampire Penguin with rockets strapped to his back. kicking.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-02-11 15:56:00
CanadaWhich dress would you choose for a beach wedding?
I think you should wear a Darth Vader costume. biggrin.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-05 15:56:00
CanadaWhich dress would you choose for a beach wedding?
I'd say #1 for looks, but #3 for practicality. While #1 definitely looks nicer, the dress part hangs lower than #3. That's true of #2, as well. If you're going to be on a beach, I'd recommend a dress with a shorter length. You could always have #1 modified, of course. But assuming you'd take those dressed "as is", I'd go with #3.
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-05 13:43:00
CanadaCNN report says squirrel seen in Banff, B.C.
QUOTE (trailmix @ Aug 21 2009, 11:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
A National Geographic survey in 2006 found that half of all young Americans couldn't locate New York on a map or identify the Mississippi River.

That can't be right. New York is one of the most well-known and important states in the United States. The Mississippi River is something elementary students learn about. Unless the survey specifically targeted really stupid people (or pergaps those in impoverished areas where education is generally poor), I can't believe that study.

For the record, I'm not saying Americans are great at world geography. However, I can't imagine most Americans couldn't identify the so-called "most important states" or know the longest and most major river in their home country. It just doesn't seem possible -- at least not 50% anyway.

QUOTE (trailmix @ Aug 21 2009, 11:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Still, nothing seems to be sinking in. In 2006, the Daily Orange, the independent campus newspaper at Syracuse University, located 2.5 hours south of the border in New York state, asked people on campus if they knew much about Canada. "Not to be disrespectful to Canada or anything, but the country just doesn't matter," student Patrick Saint Laurent said.

Knowing the media, I'll bet that they interviewed numerous students and simply quoted the one who insulted Canada. It's like when comedy shows interview "people on the street" and ask all sorts of easy questions. They don't show the ones who answer correctly.

Edited by DeadPoolX, 22 August 2009 - 02:59 AM.

DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-22 02:57:00
CanadaIf You Could Choose to Live in Any State, Which Would You Choose???
Texas! Oh wait... I'm originally from Texas. tongue.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-08-21 03:19:00
CanadaBanking and Building credit in the US
QUOTE (Krikit @ Jul 21 2009, 06:30 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I've actually gotten in heck from people for not knowing the last 4 digits of my ssn. It is a requirement for pretty much everything here. The other problem is when they request your zip code when using a credit card at a gas pump, for instance. Which means a person with an out-of-country cc can't use the pay-and-go. They have to go inside. It's also a hassle if your cc is tied to a PO box and not a home address because you have to remember which zip. That's if you can remember your zip. laughing.gif

My wife is often amazed at how I can remember numbers with little-to-no effort. For instance, I glanced at my SIN for maybe a moment and fully memorized it. I did the same with my SSN years ago. Maybe I'm lucky in that respect. On the other hand, I can't remember what I did yesterday... unsure.gif

I find ZIP codes easier to remember than postal codes. I don't think postal codes are difficult, but at least there are no letters in ZIP codes. That said, all you need is the five-digit number. The four digit number that is sometimes attached to the end of the five-digit number is rarely required and even when they say it is, no one cares.

QUOTE (Krikit @ Jul 21 2009, 06:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My biggest words of advice are to never ever EVER try to cash a Canadian cheque in a US bank. Never. mad.gif

I'm thinking of writing a Canadian check for $1 and then attempt to cash it in the United States. I'll also demand my cash in pennies. biggrin.gif

QUOTE (trailmix @ Jul 21 2009, 06:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Sam and Ben @ Jul 21 2009, 09:14 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I know I found it to be the oddest thing, when I went to purchase something online for my fiance's mother on her credit card, it asked for the last four digits of her SSN. I remember finding that to be such a weird thing for them to ask for, until she said that's actually a rather common thing, which is why they have to memorize their number.

blink.gif


That's really weird, I shop online a lot and have never been asked for my SSN. They do ask for the security code from your credit card though, which is 3 or 4 digits depending on what type of card you are using.

Some banks, like BoA, allow you to create a temporary online credit card. I think PayPal does something similar. The idea is that if the number is stolen, you're card is still safe. I'd explain the details, but that'd require much more time and effort than I'm willing to spend on this (plus very few people would actually read it).

By the way... in the U.S. you can get a PayPal credit card and debit card. I don't have those (even before I came up to Canada), so I can't tell you about the benefits and drawbacks. But it sounds like a good option. tongue.gif

Edited by DeadPoolX, 29 July 2009 - 12:04 PM.

DeadPoolXMaleCanada2009-07-29 12:04:00
CanadaA US TD Bank ? Anyone heard of it or tried them?
QUOTE (Sprailenes @ Dec 2 2008, 11:10 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I love how when we complain about the US deadpool comes to the rescue and vice versa. laughing.gif

Yeah, well... the Canadians here are apparently "allowed" to say whatever they want about the U.S., whereas I am -- for some reason or another -- forbidden to say anything about Canada. mad.gif

And no, I am not "coming to the rescue" of the United States. I am stating my opinion. Just as everone else is, I might add. I guess I'm not permitted to do that either -- unless it's glowing approval of Canada. I rarely see anything positive about the U.S. from the Canadians here. wacko.gif
DeadPoolXMaleCanada2008-12-02 14:19:00