The Italian government -- democratic by name, anarchical by reputation -- takes pride in the 90 percent turnout it has for political elections. Since every Italian citizen is automatically registered to vote, nine out of every ten Italians consistently show up at the ballots. In the United States, only half that number participate in elections.

There's a twist, however. Despite the 90 percent participation rate, only 60 percent of the Italian ballots actually count. Why? Because the other 30 percent of voters don't fill out the ballot -- they just scribble down obscenities directed at the government, i.e. 'Italy sucks!' and 'The government stinks!'

These vandalized ballots cannot be counted and are, of course, thrown out.

I just thought that was rather interesting/funny. Crazy Italians. OK, I haven't slept in 24 hours. Good night, moon.