[quote=briansd1]
We could cut many “big government” programs as far as I’m concerned. How about closing Miramar and Camp Pendleton?

I believe it’s a lot more ironic to work for the government or government contractors and then disparage government.[/quote]

Ironically, one of the few roles outlined for the federal government IS national defense. Perhaps you’d prefer to return to militias? Are you ready to pickup a weapon?

And, fwiw, I don’t work for the government or for a company that contracts to the governement…

[quote=briansd1]
As far as sales taxes are concerned, my friend will be exporting the iPad, so no CA use taxes apply. In fact, she should theoretically get a refund of all the sales/use taxes from her shopping while traveling in USA.[/quote]

You don’t get to take a pass on sales taxes because you don’t live here and are taking the item out of the country.

I’ll tell the retailers that when I’m in the UK next month: “I don’t have to pay the VAT because I’m taking it out of the country”. I’ll see if they get as big of a laugh out of it as I do.