Unfortunately, we have been in this mode for over a year and a half. Only about two and a half months left to go. Actually, I don't remember any pre-election "carryings on" going on for this long. The conventions are just about starting and that will intensify the good and bad feelings for a while.

The Democratic race was very close and possibly is not over yet. You can never tell with Bill and Hillary. The world is waiting for Bill's speech. Will Hillary's charm overtake Obama's speechmaking ability? Tune in and we will see!

The Republicans have their problems as well. Is John McCain just an extension of the 8-year term of George W. Bush? That is what his enemies are saying. He claims to be a new man.

The women of America have been disappointed and disaffected by the dropping of Hillary Clinton from being a contender. They felt it was about time that a woman sat in the Oval Office and tended the presidency. Some may even be reluctant to vote on Nov. 4, 2008.

We have so many problems at the present time. Gasoline prices have gone through the roof, inflation seems to be building, the stock market has tumbled and little help is in sight.

Who will be the winner is still in doubt. Depending on which poll you choose to believe, the race is close. One candidate is ahead on Monday and second best on Tuesday. And then there is that 3 percent mathematical error they are always mentioning.

Life goes on in the cities and the suburbs. America will survive either of the winning candidates. Our democracy has lasted for over 200 years and gone through many bad times.

This election seems crucial but it is just another exercise in democracy. The winners will be ecstatic and the losers will weep, but then fall in line.

After all, this is the United States of America! The greatest democracy the world has ever known.

P.S. I am running out of ideas for my columns. Send me your ideas - e-mail Shgreenbug@aol.com or mail them to 132 East Second Street in Mineola, NY 11501.