text:
Debates of Sept. 21st, 2001
House of Commons Hansard #83 of the 37th Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was border.
- Customs Act
- Recycling
- National Security
- Terrorism
- Interfaith Prayer Service
- United States of America
- Terrorism
- Violence Against Women
- Terrorism
- United States of America
- Walk of Hope
- Terrorism
- Dystonia
- The Economy
- Terrorism
- Budget Surpluses
- Terrorism
- Agriculture
- Standing Committee on Finance
- Stock Market Speculation
- International Aid
- Privilege
- Points of Order
- Government Response to Petitions
- Interparliamentary Delegations
- Questions on the Order Paper
- Question No. 58
- Questions Passed as Orders for Returns
- Question No. 44
- Question No. 50
- Question No. 55
- Questions No. 57
- Questions No. 61
- Customs Act
Customs Act
Government Orders
10 a.m.
Martin Cauchon Minister of National Revenue and Secretary of State (Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec)
moved that Bill S-23, an act to amend the Customs Act and to make related amendments to other Acts , be read the second time and referred to a committee.
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to speak today on Bill S-23, a bill aimed at modernizing the entire administration of Canadian customs operations. It addresses an action plan that will make it possible to have better risk management at Canada's borders and to meet the needs of the entire Canadian population in this modern age, that is the era of globalization, and its realities, of which we are all aware.
As I said earlier this week, it is particularly important that this bill be passed without delay so that we may have the tools we need to enhance our capacity to recognize high-risk individuals and goods at the border before they enter Canada and North America.
I wish to reiterate in the House that the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency takes the security of Canada's borders very seriously. We work in close collaboration with our federal and international partners, sharing information and technologies.
We also have a very close working relationship with our counterparts in U.S. customs and immigration. We are however also aware that border management is a constantly evolving process. That is why we have established a plan on which we have been working for some time.
Thanks to the changes proposed by Bill S-23, the agency will be able to focus its efforts on high risk travellers and goods while simplifying border crossings for those in the low risk category.
We will be in a position, before these reach the border, to combine risk management techniques and the transmission of information obtained with leading-edge technology and through the use of pre-arrival authorization mechanisms. This will bring about a fundamental change to the way the customs agency operates.
I must reiterate that prior to the tragic events in the United States and even more so since, the agency has always had as its priority the security of Canadians, protection of our border, the integrity of major trade corridors and reinforcement of the North American perimeter.
The risk management approach to border management called for in the customs action plan will enable the government to better uphold these priorities. While we must take measures to enhance the safety and security of Canadians and our border, let us not forget our other important responsibility of ensuring the prosperity of the Canadian economy.
International trade and tourism are considered the lifeblood of the Canadian economy. Let us not forget our accountability to Canadians to ensure their continuity.
In order to support the government's international trade agreements and its agenda for trade and tourism, the agency needs to modernize the way it carries out its customs operations.
In today's ever changing environment, one of our key goals is to maintain the flow of legitimate trade and travel across the border.
As we know, the final elimination of duties between Canada and the U.S. has further stimulated trade and enhanced both our economies. Over the past five years the volume of trade and travel has steadily increased. Every day we process 40,000 commercial entries representing well over $300 billion worth of import trade each year.
More than 100 million travellers cross our border each year and over 80% of these travellers come from the U.S.
The CCRA has met the challenges of the last decade in responding to globalization, changing business practices and advancing technology. All this economic activity has had a major impact on customs operations on both sides of the border.
We are in good shape today with a range of enforcement initiatives and services that support the protection of Canadians and the competitiveness of business. We are certainly proud of our successes so far.
However, we are also aware of the gap that is growing between the increasing workload and the resources we have available to achieve our goals. This has forced us to re-evaluate how we carry out our dual mandate.
By launching our customs action plan, we have already taken a huge step to meet this challenge. The next step takes place now with the passing of Bill S-23.
Our customs action plan is a crucial investment for the future. In proposing innovative solutions to today's problems, the plan ensures that our customs' processes will not stand in the way of Canadians' prosperity.
The action plan provides for a complete risk management system integrating the principles of pre-arrival data input and a system of prior approval, all thanks to technology.
To support this approach we are putting in place a fair and effective system of sanctions. We believe Bill S-23 provides practical measures to deal with non-compliance, from warnings to fines. These measures should have an impact on those who choose not to obey the rules.
Bill S-23 provides options that will facilitate border crossing and make it more productive in today's world. In essence, businesses and individuals with a good history of compliance should be able to benefit.
Compliance with the law is the key to the success of this approach. Bill S-23 aims at improving compliance levels. We believe that improved service and simplified processing will encourage voluntary compliance.
Naturally, in keeping with the other part of our mandate which is to protect Canadian society, we will continue random checks and monitoring periodically to ensure compliance with Canada's customs laws and regulations.
As part of the customs action plan, we will be implementing this fall the customs self-assessment program. This program is a direct result of our consultations with members of the business community who consider it their highest priority. The program is based on the principles of risk management which provide for agreements with proven clients.
Participating importers who have been rigorously selected prior to their approval, will be able to use their own administrative system to meet our requirements for receipts and trade data. This will be a comprehensive self-assessment system supported by our audit activities.
The program will also simplify the customs process by offering increased speed and certainty to pre-approved importers who use the services of pre-approved carriers and drivers to import low risk goods. There is no doubt this is a great step forward in border management.
The monetary penalties set out in Bill S-23 aim to establish fair rules for businesses in Canada. This comprehensive set of penalties will encourage people to observe the law, thanks to a series of penalties that will vary in severity depending on the type and severity of the offence committed.
In this context, the agency is aware that some of its clients may require a certain amount of time to familiarize themselves with all of the requirements with which they will need to comply. This is why importers will be given a transition period through April 1, 2002.
However, in the case of the customs self-assessment program, some of the penalties will take effect as soon as the program is implemented.
The passing of Bill S-23 would also bring exciting options for travellers. Many people will have heard of the CANPASS highway program which was pilot tested in a number of locations in recent years. Under this permit based program, travellers pre-approved by a rigorous training process are permitted to use designated lanes at border crossings.
Another example is the expedited passenger processing system for travellers. Under this new program, EPPS participants will be able to use an automated kiosk that will confirm their identity and membership in the program.
Another initiative is the harmonized highway pilot, also known as Nexus. Its goal is to provide a seamless service to pre-approved low risk travellers entering Canada and the U.S. at these border points using technology and a common card.
I believe these initiatives will serve Canadians well by improving the flow of people and goods across the border and by strengthening our ability to do job number one: protecting Canadians.
Amendments to the Customs Act proposed in Bill S-23 would allow for the introduction of advanced passenger information and passenger notification record. With those programs, customs officers will receive certain prescribed information from commercial transportation companies and drivers, crew members and passengers in advance of their arrival in Canada.
It is important to clarify to the hon. member that this is not new information. Customs officers can obtain the same information through questioning travellers and examining their travel documents. However, by receiving this information in advance, customs officers will be able to make enlightened decisions prior to the arrival of people thereby making it easier to identify high risk travellers and facilitating the movement of legitimate travellers.
The agency will continue to be vigilant and will conduct random customs examinations. The instincts of our well trained, experienced customs officers will continue to be our guiding force.
There are other examples that demonstrate the importance of this bill. This is why I cannot insist enough on the importance of moving forward with Bill S-23. I believe that this legislation is a bold and innovative step in the modernization and management of Canada's borders.
Bill S-23 will help Canadians compete and prosper on international markets. It will allow the agency to help maximize the flow of commercial cargo and travellers in good standing. The bill will also provide us with the tools we need to better protect our borders and our country and it will allow us to ensure the safety of our communities and our families. I am sure we all agree that Canadians expect nothing less.
Customs Act
Government Orders
10:15 a.m.
Canadian Alliance
Rahim Jaffer Edmonton Strathcona, AB
Mr. Speaker, I rise on behalf of Her Majesty's loyal opposition to address the second reading of Bill S-23, an act to amend the Customs Act and to make related amendments to other acts. Bill S-23 comes before the House at a great time of crisis when the eyes of Canadians, and indeed the world, are upon our borders.
I wish to thank our customs officers who, in the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks, have been under incredible pressure working extra long hours thoroughly checking thousands of travellers seeking entrance to Canada. They are doing a tremendous and extremely valuable job with limited human, technological and financial resources.
I will address the initiatives enacted by Bill S-23 and their impact on our economy and trade relations; and, more important, the importance of our trade relationship with the United States and what is needed to protect and stabilize that relationship.
We are a trading nation. Our economy has positioned itself over the past decade to facilitate, expand and promote our international trade relationships. None of these relationships are as crucial as our relationship with the United States.
As a result of the FTA and NAFTA the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency handles over $500 billion in cross-border trade and processes more than 108 million travellers each year. These numbers dictate that efficient systems need to be implemented to keep pace.
The Canada-United States accord on our shared border was signed in 1995 with a number of goals: to promote international trade; to streamline processes for legitimate travellers and commercial goods; to provide enhanced protection against drug smuggling and the illegal entrants of people; and to reduce costs to both governments. The initiatives we are debating today were derived to fulfill the accord's goals.
The customs action plan began in 1998 involving nationwide consultations with groups representing trade and traveller groups to streamline the processing of goods and travellers based on risk assessment and a fair, effective sanctions regime. I commend the minister and his department for seeking industry input to reflect its needs and realities in these amendments.
The Canpass permit program contained in the bill allows travellers who frequently cross the border by air or surface for legitimate purposes to register with the government and pass through the border without having to stop for questioning. These participants are thoroughly checked before being accepted to the program and are subject to random spot checks to ensure compliance.
The administrative monetary penalties system, or AMPS, is a new regime to help ensure compliance. In the past, penalties and sanctions were rigid and in many cases too extreme for small infractions. For example, the seizure of a vehicle is hardly an appropriate penalty for a $100 discrepancy in declared goods.
The AMPS regime sanctions range from simple warnings to punitive fines of $25,000 to match the severity and frequency of infractions. The flexibility and discretion facilitated by this regime would allow fines to be administered on the basis of fairness.
One of the Canadian Alliance's ongoing concerns with our airports and ports of entry has been the ability of Canadian officials to determine the identity of those arriving and the ability to separate arriving passengers from other people in the plaza. We have called on the government to utilize electronic technology to forward travel document information from departure to destination to deal with those who arrive at customs without identification.
Thousands of refugee claimants have arrived in Canada without travel documents or identification, but they had documents when they boarded a plane to get to Canada. The advance passenger information system, or API, requires commercial carriers to provide information in advance of arrival with respect to drivers, crew members and passengers.
This is a step in the right direction. However much more is needed to adequately meet the needs of Canadian security.
Bill S-23 would allow for the examination of export mail. As a Canadian dedicated to the protection and advancement of personal liberties, I am uncomfortable voting for such an amendment. However I understand the rationale for such procedures.
I am concerned about the frequency and discretion of those who would be permitted to intercept and examine outgoing mail. We have experienced many complaints of overzealous examination of inbound mail.
In my riding of Edmonton--Strathcona, in an area called Old Strathcona, there are a number of import based industries on the retail front. Some of these industries import on a regular basis various artifacts from Africa and Latin America. One of these importers has been in business for over 10 years. They have an ongoing problem with customs at the border when many of their products come into the country.
Some of the changes prescribed in the bill would help to address some of those problems. One of the biggest complaints made by these importers is the fact that when their goods come from customs there is not the required due diligence in respect of their products being in the right condition so they can sell them.
One of my constituents sustained $60,000 worth of damage to his goods because of the way customs searched through all the products that came through without proper attention to due diligence. That is outrageous. In some cases that can make or break certain businesses, depending upon the kind of business they are in.
This is unfortunate and it is due to certain rules currently in the Customs Act that allow customs officials to check these products. Once they start rifling through them the insurance on these packages is no longer valid. Once damage has been done the recipient cannot get reimbursed for any loss. That is a big problem.
This is one of my concerns that relates to personal liberties because we need to protect the flow of goods coming through. We need to be thorough and do the proper checks. There is no doubt about that. However we must respect people's property, their businesses and their livelihoods. If that is not done effectively then many business owners would potentially lose millions of dollars and unfortunately have products they cannot use or sell.
The initiatives and programs contained in Bill S-23 would benefit many Canadian companies in their administrative tasks by allowing Canadians to import materials and products with greater ease. However reciprocal programs on the part of the United States are lacking. The programs do very little to help Canadian companies access American markets. These initiatives do not help Canadian employees for whom the prosperity of their families and livelihoods are contingent upon unfettered access to the United States.
The Canada-U.S. border is a clash in fundamental philosophies. The U.S. customs service believes that its primary mandate is enforcement, whereas Canada Customs believes that its primary mandate is to liberate trade restrictions and collect revenues.
In light of the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, our border security has come under increased scrutiny. The debate over liberalization of border procedures may only be entertained within a greater debate on national security, in particular border integrity.
We can have it both ways: a border that expedites international trade while closing its doors to terrorism, organized crime and smugglers. What is required is a principled plan and the political will to defy bureaucratic agendas, to ignore special interest interventions and to resist the vices of political expediency.
What is needed is a government that exhibits leadership and resolve, two qualities yet to be displayed by the administration. Since the tragedy of September 11, the Prime Minister has done little more than offer platitudes and deflect blame. To continue along this path would only result in our economic peril. United States Secretary of State Colin Powell said last week:
Some nations need to be more vigilant against terrorism at their borders if they want their relationship with the U.S. to remain the same. We are going to make it clear to them that this will be a standard against which they are measured with respect to their relationship with the United States.
He also added that for those nations that do a better job of policing their borders the U.S. would work with them. Last night President Bush stated that there is no truer friend to the United States than Great Britain. When Canada markets itself to the world our greatest selling feature is our proximity to the United States and the privilege of being its most favoured nation. What happens if that relationship were to be diminished?
I know that a politician's enemy is a hypothetical question. However I question how hypothetical it actually is. I read in the National Post that Honda was reconsidering investing in Canada and was contemplating redirecting that investment to the United States due to the uncertainty surrounding the flow across the Canada-U.S. border.
In light of recent tragedies Canada has been given an opportunity to address our security deficiencies. There is an inherent responsibility on the part of the government to do so. By taking immediate action the government would not be capitulating to American interests but rather responding in a practical and prudent manner.
I emphasize the importance of securing and expanding our trade relationship with the United States. There is no turning back from free trade.
No issue is of greater urgency than the security of the North American perimeter. Our walls must be reinforced and entry and exit security must be improved. By threatening the openness we have enjoyed along the Canada-U.S. border we jeopardize billions of dollars of trade and tens of thousands of Canadian jobs. Our very standard of living is at stake as over 87% of our trade is done with the United States.
This concept is based on common sense. Canada and the United States, through NAFTA and numerous other accords and treaties, are the world's closest allies. We share the longest undefended border in the world. If we want to maintain that relationship we must ascertain who is crossing that border by first of all identifying who is in our respective countries. Only when we can confirm the integrity of our external borders can we minimize the scrutiny of our shared border. A bilateral initiative with the United States to share border integrity is integral.
In terms of immigration, those who argue deceptively that strength in screening approaches are anti-immigrant are mistaken. Our immigration policies must be generous. However they must be rigorous. We can no longer have a policy of admit first, ask questions later.
Our policies and laws must protect the lives and livelihoods of Canadians. We must weigh the concerns about the safety of our citizens and the preservation of an open trade relationship with the United States against our humanitarian responsibility to receive genuine refugees.
Thousands of displaced persons find refuge in Canada every year. The vast majority are legitimate refugees. Many others are seeking to circumvent the immigration system or gain access to Canada for the purpose of criminal and terrorist activity. The latter comprise the minority of those seeking asylum. However they have an astute knowledge of our laws and know how to navigate their way through the system and carry out their agenda to the detriment of Canadian society as a whole. Collateral damage occurs through association by creating a negative impression of their ethnic or religious community in Canada.
The Canadian Alliance does not criticize the federal government's underlying intentions for granting refuge. Our grievances are with the process. We want to help as many legitimate refugees as possible, however, we believe stringent and secure refugee determination processes are in the best interests of genuine refugees seeking entrance to Canada.
In order to have entrance to Canada granted, the identity of applicants must be ascertained. Their whereabouts while in Canada must be monitored. Those whose identities and backgrounds cannot be determined must be detained and those whose applications for asylum are denied must be deported forthwith. When it comes to accountability, this is the bare minimum.
A message must be sent out to the world that Canada is a home for those in genuine need of humanitarian support, however, those attempting to take advantage and abuse our humanitarian generosity will be punished severely and swiftly.
The adjudication of refugee cases must be performed by qualified officers. Political organizers, fundraisers and unsuccessful candidates are not qualified to perform such a rigorous mandate.
As members know, I am quite sensitive to the issue of refugees and Canada opening its arms to refugees. As like many in the House, my family came to Canada as refugees. We fled the dictatorship of Idi Amin in Uganda where our family was unfortunately kicked out in the early 1970s, three generations living in a country we called home, where we built our own wealth, friendship and families. Freedom was ripped away from us overnight without any justification except that we were discriminated against because of the colour of our skin. We did not fit into that particular community.
In that unfortunate event in Uganda, my home country where I was born, we were fortunate that we were able to come to Canada. Canada welcomed us with open arms. If we look at the number of refugees during that period of time from that particular region of the country and see how they have contributed to this country with all the people who are either working now as professionals, adding to the economy and to the community by volunteering, it is fantastic to see those sorts of rewards that Canada was able to reap by having such a generous and humanitarian policy for settling refugees.
That is what we need to focus on. We need to continue to allow Canadians such as my family, who are so thankful that Canada welcomed us here with open arms, and others who want to come to this country, to take advantage of the opportunity and not abuse the laws. As I mentioned, those who abuse the laws are in the minority. We need to make sure that people coming to the country are not done in by the laws of this country, especially by those who unfortunately want to abuse those laws. I am sensitive to that. I encourage that. As a refugee I feel that we have to do as much as we can, but we have to be rigorous.
Some of the most ardent proponents of reforming Canada's immigration and refugee determination laws are new immigrants themselves. They all went through the hoops and met every requirement. Not only are they upset with those who abuse the refugee system, they are livid with those of their community who abuse the system and commit crimes in Canada, casting a negative light upon their community.
The government is not doing its job properly. This is evident with the backlash experienced by Canada's Islamic and Sikh communities. Government mismanagement of the refugee system is a disservice to the immigrant communities that are working hard to contribute to a country which has given them so much.
In conclusion I would like to state the fact that the bill was first introduced in the Senate, which is unelected and lacks legitimacy to address legislation prior to the House of Commons, and I would like to state the fact that the Canadian Alliance demand is for anti-terrorist legislation to strengthen national security and eradicate terrorist activity within Canada.
I move:
That the motion be amended by replacing all the words after the word that with the following:
this House declines to give second reading to Bill S-23, an act to amend the Customs Act and to make related amendments to other acts, since the principle of the bill fails to specifically and adequately address national security at Canada's borders with respect to terrorist activities.
Customs Act
Government Orders
10:35 a.m.
Gilles-A. Perron Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, QC
Mr. Speaker, I would like to seek the unanimous consent of the House to split my time with my colleague from Saint-Hyacinthe--Bagot.
Customs Act
Government Orders
10:35 a.m.
The Speaker
Does the hon. member have the unanimous consent of the House to split his time?
Customs Act
Government Orders
10:35 a.m.
Some hon. members
Customs Act
Government Orders
10:35 a.m.
Gilles-A. Perron Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, QC
Mr. Speaker, in my first speech to the House since the tragic events of September 11, I would like to take a few moments to extend my most sincere condolences to the people who have been saddened by this terrible event, on behalf of the people of Rivière-des-Mille--Îles, the people of Quebec and of Canada. I wish to assure them that they are in our hearts, in our thoughts and in our prayers.
Moving now to Bill S-23 which was passed by the Senate on June 7, the Bloc Quebecois is in favour of this bill provided certain major amendments are passed.
I would remind hon. members that the Bloc Quebecois has always been in favour of the movement of goods and services between countries, and of free trade. The proof of this is, in fact, that the government of Quebec and the Bloc Quebecois were the first to approve NAFTA under the Mulroney government. At that time, I would also remind hon. members, our friends across the way were against it.
The Bloc Quebecois and the government of Quebec were also in favour of the open skies project. They are in favour of the FTAA. The Bloc Quebecois has always been a supporter of free trade, provided individuals' rights and culture are always respected.
I will discuss the background of Bill S-23. This bill started out as a draft bill in the fall of 1998 when Revenue Canada, which has now become the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency, published a discussion paper entitled "Customs Blueprint".
In that document the department pledged first to improve the services provided; second, to ensure that businesses and travellers comply with the regulations; third, to identify efforts to end illegal activities and threats to health and safety; fourth, to promote certainty and consistency for travellers and business people.
Following this discussion paper the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency released the customs action plan for the years 2000-04. Customs new approach is based on a comprehensive risk management system that integrates the principles of self-assessment and information collection, as well as special authorizations regarding the main following features: processing techniques based on risks for travellers and business people; streamlined processes when risks are low; more thorough processes when risks are greater or when they are unknown.
Can we include in the unknown risks the new unknown risk for everyone posed by terrorism? I think so. As for the second principle, it was based on a fair and effective sanctions system.
I agree that this new approach is good in itself and implements a way of doing cross-border trading and travel much more expeditiously. It should be noted that the bill seems more geared to Canada-United States transportation. More importantly though, it could be adjusted to international travel in the near or not too distant middle future. I do not remember seeing any mention of marine transport in the bill, but we should start thinking about it.
This bill can therefore be summed up as follows: first, it provides for the expedited movement of persons and goods into Canada; second, it provides for streamlined clearance procedures for low risk passengers by pre-arrival risk assessment of passenger information; third, it provides for new requirements in respect of the provision of information obtained under that act; fourth, it provides for monetary penalties in respect of designated contraventions; fifth, it extends the deadline for requesting reviews and appeals beyond current time limits; sixth, it harmonizes provisions for the collection of amounts owing under that act with those of the Income Tax Act and the Excise Tax Act; seventh, it makes technical and housekeeping amendments; and eighth, it makes related amendments to other acts.
But let us be prudent. I would like the minister responsible for the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency to be very prudent. My question this morning is this: Will Bill S-23 address all the shortcomings identified by the auditor general in his April 11, 2000 report with respect to the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency? Let us again look at what the auditor general said in his report.
We found that risk assessment is incomplete: Customs does not have important information it needs from a variety of departments and agencies to fully assess the risks its inspectors face. It needs to know where the risks are highest so it can determine the best way to control them. We have recommended that Customs work more diligently to obtain information on the risks arising from the responsibilities it carries out at ports of entry on behalf of other departments—Citizenship and Immigration Canada, Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, for example—and include them in its national risk assessment. It also needs to have up-to-date memoranda of understanding with those departments, setting out their respective roles and responsibilities.
This is a bit worrisome.
Another aspect of this legislation concerns us considerably, and I refer to mail searches. The bill provides a means for searches of all mail of more than 30 grams in weight. This is disturbing because it is a form of interfering with people's fundamental rights. When the bill was under consideration in Senate committee, the Canadian bar submitted an excellent brief on March 15, 2001 and I invite the Minister responsible for the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency to note the position taken by the Canadian Bar Association. The points it makes are certainly important.
In closing, one point in this bill is of concern. It is the power accorded the minister. The bill also contains many regulations. Most of the points of law will be resolved by regulations.
The minister will have to define and make public the regulations he intends to make on security at Canadian customs so that they may be debated here.
The Bloc Quebecois supports the principle of the law. Indeed, goods and people must be expedited through customs, but not at all cost. I think the minister will have to make certain changes to his bill for us to support it completely.
Customs Act
Government Orders
10:45 a.m.
Yvan Loubier Saint-Hyacinthe—Bagot, QC
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to address this bill which is of critical importance to the future of international trade.
The bill provides for:
—the expedited movement of persons and goods into Canada;
(b) streamlined clearance procedures for low risk passengers by pre-arrival risk assessment of passenger information;
(c) new requirements in respect of the provision of information obtained under that Act;
(d) monetary penalties in respect of designated contraventions;
We can only support any government initiative designed to facilitate trade and speed up customs procedures. We can only support a bill that can improve these aspects and thus ensure that our country can export its goods and services more easily to the United States and even elsewhere in the world while promoting cordial relations with our trading partners.
This is why we support in principle Bill S-23 introduced by our learned colleague the hon. member for Outremont.
However we must be extremely careful because the government has the unfortunate tendency to introduce bills that refer to all sorts of provisions and regulations that have yet to be drafted. When regulations can be twice as long as the bill itself, it is cause for concern because we are not getting the full picture.
Several of the bills introduced by the government in recent years had this unfortunate feature. For example, the Bank Act provides that regulations will come later. In the case of certain provisions, we are still waiting for these regulations.
Another problem with Bill S-23 that also existed with the Bank Act is the very broad discretionary powers given to the minister responsible, in this case the Minister of National Revenue, who is in charge of customs.
We must avoid this kind of situation since we can only evaluate a bill on its merits if it includes specific provisions. In the bill before us, there are at least three issues that deserve a much more indepth review than is now possible without the regulations.
First, when the government talks about expanding the CANPASS program so that more exporters and importers can move their goods more rapidly through customs simply by showing their CANPASS membership card, we may well wonder how we can evaluate the fairness and impact of this measure if we do not know what criteria is used when deciding whether certain exporters or importers should be allowed to qualify for the CANPASS program. They will be able to pass through Canadian and U.S. customs more quickly. Another category will be refused CANPASS accreditation after their cases are considered.
How are we to evaluate the fairness of this decision? What avenues of appeal are open to exporters and importers? It is important that the criteria for accreditation be clearly known.
Why? Because those who qualify under the CANPASS program will have a competitive advantage over their competitors. Why? Because they will be able to point to their CANPASS accreditation as a business advantage and tell their clients "I guarantee you that there will be no wait at Canadian customs. I will be able to clear the goods, and you will receive them faster than if you use my competitor who does not have a CANPASS".
It becomes a bit like the ISO standard in industry. It becomes a symbol of recognition of the performance of these exporters or importers. If a company obtains CANPASS accreditation and another company in the same sector or in another Canadian province does not, we need to know why. Because the former has an advantage over the latter, as it would in the case of ISO standards, because it can show that it is able to expedite its shipping contracts for its clients.
The second example concerns the system for expediting passenger movement. We have no indication of the criteria which will be used. It is a bit disturbing when the minister is being given discretionary power, or we are waiting for regulations yet to come, but we do not know the criteria that will be used in awarding these accreditations.
This would also allow—and the privacy commissioner highlighted this problem with Bill S-23—Canada Customs agents to open packages weighing over 30 grams. Once again this raises some issues. Surely there is some way to limit this power to open mail without a warrant and without any legal reason. Surely there is some way to better define this aspect of the bill. This is what we will work on in the coming weeks.
While we support this bill in theory since it will help simplify trade, we have some serious concerns with regard to provisions contained within the bill. To this end, we are asking—and I am sure that we will have the co-operation of the minister responsible—that the minister provide us with the bulk of the regulations at the same time as we are studying the bill in committee specifically, so that we can get the whole picture of the situation.
Incidentally, I would invite the minister responsible for the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency to come up with a work plan to review new provisions regarding international trade, as well as the existing ones, in light of the new circumstances, that is, the tragedy that took place some ten days ago in the United States.
Obviously, increasing security means tightening certain customs regulations and increasing the resources allocated to border surveillance. I hope the minister already has a work plan to review how Canada protects its borders and to ensure that this is improved in view of the new and terrifying events that took place in the United States the week before last.
Finally, I would ask the minister responsible, because this is part of his mandate, to try to see how we could neutralize, in the near future, the work of money laundering organizations that conduct their activities all over the world and often have a base of operations in Canada. I would ask the minister—because it is ultimately his responsibility—to review, in co-operation with the Minister of Finance, even though it is the Minister of National Revenue who is responsible for their implementation, the tax treaties signed with some countries that are deemed to be tax havens.
Since 1993 we have been asking the government to review these tax treaties, to provide more resources so as to put pressure on these tax havens to stop their unfair way of processing tax resources and particularly money laundering activities, given what happened in the United States and given the statements made by the western world regarding the fight against tax havens and money laundering, which are the source of wealth of terrorist groups. The government should take a serious look at this issue. I will complete my speech after oral question period.
Statements By Members
10:55 a.m.
Karen Redman Kitchener Centre, ON
Mr. Speaker, I ask hon. members of the House to join with me today in recognizing the 20th anniversary of Ontario's blue box recycling program.
The blue box was the brainchild of Kitchener resident Nyle Ludolph, a garbage collector with Laidlaw, who helped launch the program in 1981. Two hundred and fifty Kitchener homes received the first blue boxes and the program was soon expanded to 34,000 homes.
Ontario residents were eager to make use of the blue box in their efforts to reduce, recycle and reuse. Today approximately four million Ontario households have curb or depot access to recycling. In 1999 successful recycling helped divert 658,000 tonnes of waste from Ontario landfill sites.
The blue box idea has been adopted by numerous homes throughout Canada, the United States, France, Australia and the U.K. Recycling is one of the simple ways Canadians can build a healthier and cleaner environment.
I ask hon. members of the House to join me in recognizing this important anniversary.
National Security
Statements By Members
11 a.m.
Canadian Alliance
Philip Mayfield Cariboo—Chilcotin, BC
Mr. Speaker, British Columbians are critical of the Liberal government's poor response to the tragedies of September 11 and its reluctance to take the security of our nation seriously.
British Columbians want strong anti-terrorist legislation to protect our citizens. We want our coastline, ports and airlines secured. We want immediate action to detain and deport anyone illegally in Canada or failed refugee claimants linked to terrorist organizations. We want our military and law enforcement agencies to have the resources they need to get the job done when it comes to fighting terrorism.
The horrendous events of September 11 showed us the folly of depleting B.C.'s emergency response capabilities. The government closed CFB Chilliwack and crippled our military, naval and coast guard resources. It has given British Columbia meaningless promises about emergency assistance being dispatched from Edmonton. That is not good enough.
British Columbia is giving fair warning to the government to get serious about protecting the security of all Canadians.
Statements By Members
11 a.m.
Rick Laliberte Churchill River, SK
[Editor's Note: Member spoke in Cree]
Mr. Speaker, I stand today with a heavy heart to extend our condolences to the people whose lives were tragically violated on the island of the Manhattans. I pray that our nation and all nations of the world find peace regardless of the tests and obstacles that confront us. We must be united as nations to find true peace.
In this reflection I must acknowledge that the constitution of the United States of America was virtually based on the great law of peace of the Haudenosaunee, the Iroquois Confederacy.
The gifts and responsibilities of the indigenous nations of our country and our continent can help us in our time of need. We have no greater need now than peace and security when the threat is at our doorstep and our campfires.
I draw to the attention of all Canadians that we have a responsibility to future generations. Let us recognize Canada as a nation of rivers, for water is a source of life. Canada is a river of nations and it is in those relations that we will find true peace.
Statements By Members
11 a.m.
Sophia Leung Vancouver Kingsway, BC
Mr. Speaker, the recent tragedy in the United States caused by the unthinkable terrorist attacks has shocked North America. I know I speak for all my constituents of Vancouver Kingsway in condemning the terrorists who caused the death and destruction.
Before we identify the responsible terrorists we must not project our anger toward innocent people. I remind Canadians that racism and violence against Arab Canadians will not be tolerated in our humanistic society. This is a time for all of us to come together to condemn violence and strengthen our freedoms and democratic values.
On behalf of my constituents of Vancouver Kingsway I extend our support and compassion to the United States during this dark period in its history.
Interfaith Prayer Service
Statements By Members
11 a.m.
John McKay Scarborough East, ON
Mr. Speaker, after the events of September 11 many people of faith were left bereft of comfort. Some were wondering whether the powerful need to seek justice would unfairly target a certain faith or certain ethnicities. Indeed there was evidence to support those fears.
The Parliament of Canada gave tangible support to those voices of faith yesterday by suspending its sittings for two hours. Parliamentarians, members of the diplomatic corps and others filled to overflowing the largest room on Parliament Hill to listen to prayers and reflection from a variety of faith groups.
I thank Ambassador Cellucci for his attendance. I thank the Secretary of State for Latin America and Africa, the Minister of Canadian Heritage and the Speaker's office for their generous support.
Canada is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation. Yesterday parliament walked the walk instead of talking the talk. I have never been more proud of my colleagues in the House and Senate.
United States of America
Statements By Members
11:05 a.m.
Canadian Alliance
John Duncan Vancouver Island North, BC
Mr. Speaker, last night George Bush gave what may be the most important speech of our lifetime. He did not include Canada in his list of countries that are friends. Meanwhile our Prime Minister's priorities are clear. Last night he went to a Liberal fundraiser in Toronto while Tony Blair was at the U.S. congress with his unequivocal support.
Ten days after the terrorist attacks our Prime Minister has still not been to Washington or New York. Canadians are embarrassed by this lack of leadership. It is setting a negative tone for trade and other relations with our best friend and neighbour.
The government is behaving as if there is no crisis, no need for critical action and no urgency. The drift and empty rhetoric go on.
Statements By Members
September 21st, 2001 / 11:05 a.m.
Anita Neville Winnipeg South Centre, MB
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the residents of Winnipeg South Centre I too extend condolences to those who lost loved ones in the recent tragedy in the United States. Such horrific acts of aggression and malevolence defy comprehension.
It is human nature to immediately seek revenge by inflicting damage on those who sought to damage us. However we must, as the Prime Minister has said, proceed with balance.
This was not just an act of terrorism against the United States. It was a tidal wave of terrorism against every citizen of the world, and those responsible should be accountable to the world for their actions.
Through bodies like the International Criminal Court and international institutions and alliances, terrorists can be made to answer for their crimes and the world can seek justice for the injustices committed against innocents. Global co-operation and global solutions must be a priority.
Over the coming months and years Canada must continue to show leadership. We must act with wisdom, tolerance and patience as we contend with the profound implications and effects of terrorism.
Violence Against Women
Statements By Members
11:05 a.m.
Monique Guay Laurentides, QC
Mr. Speaker, throughout Quebec, as well as Canada and the rest of the world, thousands of women and men will be marching today to mark the Day of Action Against Violence Against Women.
Any form of violence, whether against women, men or children, and whether verbal, physical or psychological, must be condemned and opposed with the utmost vigour.
According to the Regroupement québécois des centres d'aide et de lutte contre les agressions à caractère sexuel, 85% of reported violence is against women, and 34% of women aged 16 or over have experienced a sexual assault at some time in their life.
I salute community organizations in my riding as well as those everywhere else in the world, for their unflagging efforts which make it possible for women to come together and to provide each other with support.
Let us hold on to the dream that in the very near future, such organizations will no longer be needed as hate and violence gives way to peace and serenity.


text:
All Pro 11 - 20 lb Adjustable Power Vest® Exercise Vest
Product Information:
The All Pro® 20 lb weight adjustable Power Vest® is perfect for police trainees, firefighters or anyone seeking an excellent walking workout. This exercise vest is designed for unrestricted movement during exercise with cushioned flaps to keep individual weights secure. The patented design provides extra cushioning for comfort and gives full freedom of movement. It also includes 80 weights (each ˝ lb).
- Adjustable 20 lb exercise vest for both men and women
- Premium quality, designed for comfort & safety
- Cushioned flaps protect your body and keep weights secure
- Patented design provides extra cushioning and permits full freedom of movement
- Includes protective padding for chest, shoulders, upper back, spine and waist
- Exclusive design keeps weights away from the body for extra comfort
- Includes 80 weights (each ˝ lb) to be added or removed as required
- One size fits all
- Model: 175189
- All Pro
Country of Origin: ChinaWeb ID: 13217966
Customer Reviews:
Rated 4.2 out of 5 by 6 reviewers.
Rated 5 out of 5 by Windy77 Easy instructions to follow The product was great. It just took to long to get it January 17, 2016
Rated 1 out of 5 by Lucy The vest is way too big if you are a small woman Way too big. I am a 57 year old woman with osteopenia and have been wearing a 10 lb vest made by Reebok. Wanted to add more weight but the vest is one size fits all. I weigh 112 lbs. One size does not fit all. January 28, 2015
Rated 5 out of 5 by Laney Quality product Weight bars secured fiirmly in their slots. Easy to remove weight bars to adjust weight of vest June 14, 2014
Rated 4 out of 5 by Gingermonkey Good vest It is remarkably comfortable. I'm a climber and use it to train. A second Velcro closure strap would improve this design. Equally distributes the weight. Good investment. January 25, 2014
Rated 5 out of 5 by Daily Exerciser All Pro 11- 20 lb Adjustable Power Exercise Vest Enjoy the vest, however, highly recommend that the manufacture another Velcro attachment at the bottom of V-neck similar to the one across the weights. This would prevent the top portion from slipping off the shoulder. Thanks. December 25, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by jmh Well liked We got this as a gift for one of our sons who is an avid walker. He tried it over the Christmas holiday and liked it very much. Looks like it will be easy to change the weight rods if you want, but he used it just as it came. Easy on and off too. January 2, 2013
1-6 of 6

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Issue Brief #3765 on Health Care
November 1, 2012
November 1, 2012 | Issue Brief on Health Care
Today's seniors are facing higher Medicare costs. Over the next five years, current law, as amended by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA, also known as "Obamacare"), and President Obama's budget proposals guarantee higher costs for today's seniors.
Status Quo Hikes
The 2012 Medicare trustees report says that, over the period 2012 to 2017, seniors' standard Medicare Part B monthly premiums will jump from $99.90 to $128.20, while their Part B deductibles will rise from $140 to $180.[1] Seniors' Medicare hospital deductible will increase from $1,156 to $1,336, while their daily hospital coinsurance will climb from $289 to $334. And for seniors in the hospital beyond 90 days (lifetime reserve days), the per diem coinsurance costs are estimated to reach $668 by 2017.[2]
In other words, under current law, anyone over 65 who fails to buy private catastrophic insurance coverage is taking a huge risk.
Obamacare Impact
Obamacare already mandates $716 billion in Medicare payment cuts over the next 10 years, but these cuts are not targeted at specific instances of "waste, fraud, and abuse." Rather, they are across-the-board changes in Medicare payment formulas for hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, hospice agencies, and Medicare Advantage plans.
Moreover, as every responsible analyst has noted, one cannot simultaneously use that money to pay for Obamacare and extend the life of the Medicare trust fund. Notwithstanding the tiresome claptrap that Medicare payment cuts affect only providers and not beneficiaries, cuts in funding for services directly affect those persons who depend on those services.
Obamacare will also increase Medicare taxes. The law raises the Medicare payroll tax, which funds the hospital insurance (HI) trust fund, on high-income earners from 2.9 percent to 3.8 percent and also extends the 3.8 percent Medicare tax to investment income. Together, this is the largest tax increase in Obamacare, costing taxpayers $318 billion from 2013 to 2022.[3]
However, the Medicare payroll tax revenue is again double-counted as paying for new spending and extending the life of the trust fund.[4] As for the tax on investment income, Medicare trustee Charles Blahous explains, "Though termed an 'Unearned Income Medicare Contribution' (UIMC) under the law, this revenue would not come from Medicare's traditional contribution base and it would not be allocated to a Medicare Trust Fund."[5]
Higher Premiums
President Obama has also proposed major Medicare changes in his fiscal year 2013 budget proposal. For Medicare Parts B and D, Obama's budget plan would increase premiums by 15 percent for upper-income seniors. But by 2035, those premium increases would be expanded to cover 25 percent of all Medicare beneficiaries. Thus, President Obama's proposed special premium increase on upper-income retirees would substantially increase the number of seniors paying the tax.
According to Heritage's Center for Data Analysis calculations, an individual with an income of $85,000 in 2017 who is enrolled in Part B and Part D would have a combined premium increase of $874.44 for that year. For a married couple with an income of $170,000 in 2017 enrolled in Part B and Part D, the combined premium increase for the couple would be $1,748 for that year.
While there is a large and growing consensus among a variety of analysts on the need to expand the scope of "means testing," a better approach is to reduce the government subsidy for upper-income seniors rather than foster the illusion of the subsidy by making seniors pay more.[6]
New Fees
President Obama would also impose new fees on baby boomers joining Medicare beginning in 2017. His 2013 budget proposal introduces a $25 increased Part B deductible for new beneficiaries in 2017, 2019, and 2021 and a $100 copayment for home health services in certain cases.
While there is a broad consensus on the need to curb the "first-dollar" coverage that drives up Medicare costs, President Obama proposes a premium surcharge—a kind of "premium tax"—for new beneficiaries who choose a Medigap plan with first-dollar or near-first-dollar coverage. This approach would affect most new beneficiaries.[7] A better approach would be to restructure Medicare's cost-sharing arrangements rather than adding a new "tax" to seniors.
New Drug Costs
The Obama Administration's proposed new out-of-pocket costs will be coupled with increased premiums for all Part D beneficiaries. Obamacare spends an estimated $48 billion closing the "donut hole," the congressionally created gap in drug coverage in which beneficiaries must pay 100 percent of the total costs up to a specific "catastrophic" threshold ($4,750 in 2013). When that threshold is reached, the insurance resumes payment.
Obamacare closes the "donut hole" by 2020. While out-of-pocket costs for Medicare Part D will be reduced, the changes enacted under the new health law will come at a higher premium price. Thus, according to the Congressional Budget Office's (CBO) 2010 estimate, "enacting those changes would lead to an average increase in premiums for Part D beneficiaries of about 4 percent in 2011, rising to about 9 percent in 2019."[8]
These premium increases must be understood in terms of how the Part D donut hole actually affects today's seniors. While the average premiums of all Part D beneficiaries will increase, note that of all 48.6 million Medicare enrollees in 2011, only 3.6 million actually fell into the donut hole.[9] Moreover, approximately 11 million enrollees get low-income subsidies for drug coverage, including coverage in the donut hole. Today, most private health plans already provide additional coverage for beneficiaries who might find themselves in the donut hole. For 2012, 52 percent of all plans provide generic or some generic and some brand-name drug coverage in the donut hole.[10]
Out of Options
Obama's latest budgetary scheme for cost-shifting to seniors is just another indication that the Administration and its allies on Capitol Hill are running out of options. They have already cut the Medicare provider payments to achieve a 10-year "savings" estimated at $716 billion, but most of those "savings" will finance Obamacare.[11] In a letter to Senator Jeff Sessions (R–AL), ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee, the CBO writes, "Unified budget accounting shows that the majority of the HI trust fund savings under PPACA would be used to pay for other spending and therefore would not enhance the ability of the government to pay for future Medicare benefits."[12]
Americans may differ on Medicare reform or the right future for Medicare, but one thing is certain: Under the Obama plan, seniors will pay more—a lot more—and they will pay this steep price in many different ways, including a loss of access to care from demoralized doctors and other medical professionals. Bottom line: Medicare "as we know it" is already a thing of the past.
—Robert E. Moffit, PhD, is Senior Fellow in the Center for Policy Innovation, Rea S. Hederman Jr. is Assistant Director of and Research Fellow in the Center for Data Analysis, and Alyene Senger is Research Assistant in the Center for Health Policy Studies at The Heritage Foundation.
Show references in this report
[1]Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 2012 Annual Report of the Boards of Trustees of the Federal Hospital Insurance and Federal Supplemental Medical Insurance Trust Funds, April 23, 2012, http://www.cms.gov/Research-Statistics-Data-and-Systems/Statistics-Trends-and-Reports/ReportsTrustFunds/Downloads/TR2012.pdf (accessed October 19, 2012). It should be noted that there is a "hold harmless" provision that applies to Part B premium increases. As the trustees' report explains, "Part B premiums may also vary from standard rate because a 'hold-harmless' provision can lower the premium rate for individuals who have their premiums deducted from their Social Security benefits. On an individual basis, this provision limits the dollar increase in the Part B premium to the dollar increase in the individual's Social Security benefit. As a result, the person affected pays a lower Part B premium, and the net amount of the individual's Social Security benefit does not decrease despite the greater increase in the premium."
[3]See Douglas W. Elmendorf, Director, Congressional Budget Office, letter to Speaker John Boehner, U.S. House of Representatives, July 24, 2012, http://www.cbo.gov/sites/default/files/cbofiles/attachments/43471-hr6079.pdf (accessed October 19, 2012), and Elmendorf, letter to Senator Jeff Sessions, January 22, 2010.
[4]See Elmendorf, letter to Senator Sessions. The letter states, "The reductions in projected Part A outlays and increases in projected HI revenues resulting from PPACA would significantly raise balances in the HI trust fund and might suggest that significant additional resources…had been set aside to pay for future Medicare benefits. However, only the additional savings by the government as a whole truly increase the government's ability to pay for future Medicare benefits or other programs, and those would be a much smaller.… Unified budget accounting shows that the majority of the HI trust fund savings under PPACA would be used to pay for other spending and therefore would not enhance the ability of the government to pay for future Medicare benefits."
[5]Charles Blahous, "The Fiscal Consequences of the Affordable Care Act," Mercatus Center at George Mason University, April 10, 2012, p. 49, http://mercatus.org/sites/default/files/publication/The-Fiscal-Consequences-of-the-Affordable-Care-Act_1.pdf (accessed October 24, 2012).
[6]Under the Heritage Foundation proposal, for example, the current Medicare policy of reducing taxpayer subsidies for high-income seniors' Medicare coverage would be expanded, but the reductions would be phased down gradually, affecting less than 10 percent of the entire Medicare population. See Stuart M. Butler, Alison Acosta Fraser, and William W. Beach, eds., Saving the American Dream: The Heritage Plan to Fix the Debt, Cut Spending, and Restore Prosperity, The Heritage Foundation, 2011, p. 20, http://savingthedream.org/.
[7]See Office of Management and Budget, Budget of the United States Government, Fiscal Year 2013 (Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, 2012), http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/budget/fy2013/assets/budget.pdf (accessed October 19, 2012).
[8]Congressional Budget Office, "Comparison of Projected Medicare Part D Premiums Under Current Law and Under Reconciliation Legislation Combined with H.R. 3590 as Passed by the Senate," March 19, 2010, http://cbo.gov/sites/default/files/cbofiles/ftpdocs/113xx/doc11379/comparison.pdf (accessed October 24, 2012).
[9]Kaiser Family Foundation, "The Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit," October 2012, p. 1, http://www.kff.org/medicare/upload/7044-13.pdf (accessed November 1, 2012).
[10]Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, A Data Book: Health Care Spending and the Medicare Program, June 2012, p. 163, http://www.medpac.gov/documents/Jun12DataBookEntireReport.pdf (accessed November 1, 2012).
[11]Elmendorf, letter to Speaker Boehner.
[12]Elmendorf, letter to Senator Sessions.


text:
We have had threads for favorite songs, albums, and songs that representent a generation so I figured I would start one about songs people feel are most overplayed. Mind you this isnt just for bad annoying songs but all songs that are heard so much they drive you crazy. I will kick it off with the following:
Brown Eyed Girl- Van Morrison :Good song but heard damn nearl hourly
Smells Like Teen Spirit- Nirvana: See above
How You Remind Me- Nickelback: Not a good song, not a good band but its ALWAYS on the radio.. He never made it as a wise man and he never made it as a singer either..


text:
Public Hearing Map (1.43 MB)
Aerial Map (1.43 MB)
The I-85 Corridor Improvement Project is the state�s number one mobility project. It will bring comprehensive upgrades to the highway, bridge and rail infrastructure located along a vital stretch of I-85 in Davidson and Rowan counties. The $201.5 million project plays a critical role in not only addressing current transportation needs, but also in meeting the travel demands of the future.
These improvements to I-85 will bolster regional, statewide and interstate commerce and economic development, as well as allow for more efficient evacuation during natural disasters or matters of national security.
NCDOT is building the project in two separate phases as detailed below. Construction began in October 2010. Final completion is set for May 2013.
Project Map
Phase one of this two-phase project includes:
NCDOT awarded a $136 million contract for phase one to Flatiron Constructors Inc. and the Lane Construction Co. - A Joint Venture in April 2010. Construction started Sept. 30, 2010, with final completion scheduled by April 2013. Construction is currently under way. For more details on the progress made, visit www.i-85yadkinriver.com or follow the project on Twitter via https://twitter.com/NCDOT_I85.
Map(1.43 MB)
Phase two of the project includes:
NCDOT awarded a $65.5 million contract for phase two to Balfour Beatty Infrastructure Inc./Austin Bridge and Road LP, A Joint Venture in January 2011. Construction started in May 2011, with final completion scheduled by May 2013. For detailed information on the project's progress, visit www.i-85yadkinriver.com or follow the project on Twitter via https://twitter.com/NCDOT_I85.
The funding for this project came from the N.C. Mobility Fund. Gov. Bev Perdue signed it into law in June 2010 as part of the state's budget. It will generate $173 million from fiscal year 2011 to fiscal year 2014 for transportation projects that meet statewide or regional needs. The funding comes from unused gap funds and reductions in the amount of money transferred from the Highway Trust Fund to the General Fund. Phase two of the I-85 Corridor Improvement Project is the first project to receive support from this new revenue source.
Interesting facts about the project include:
This is a rendering of how the I-85 Corridor Improvement Project will improve a 7.1-mile stretch of I-85 from north of Long Ferry Road (Exit 81) in Rowan County to U.S. 29-52-70/I-85 Business (Exit 87) in Davidson County.
Pat IveyNCDOT Division 9 Engineer
In many cases, it is inevitable that a certain amount of private property must be acquired. The displacement of homes and businesses is minimized to the extent practicable. The following brochures will answer questions about this process.


text: A regular blonde bob is saved from being "blah" by sexy feathered layers and deliberately overlong bangs. Medium-length hair blessed with dark honey blonde at the roots and lighter blonde towards the end falls just to the shoulder in a straight bob. A side part adds a bit of body on top, while a fringe is cut to just below the eyes. Ends are then softly feathered, and can be swept to the side for a girlish look, or worn over one eye for a more worldly style. Sides are more obviously layered, the wispy edges curving inwards to frame the neck and jawline.


text:
Artist Collection: (84 of 438)< Previous | Next >
Tags: bird, birds, blue bird, blue birds, tanager, tanagers, blue tanager, blue tanagers, blue grey tanager, blue grey tanagers, av
- + MOUSE OVER image to zoom in
- + CLICK to enlarge
faith, hope and charityby lois bryan
- Medium
- Digital
- Artist Notes
- "And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity." First Corinthians 13:13 King James Bible The Blue-grey tanager (Thraupis episcopus) is a medium sized South American songbird. They live together in pairs all year and nest in thick, leafy shrubs and trees and sometimes use nests abandoned by other birds. This image was captured at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland in October of 2010. It is a compilation of several images ... and I send out my thanks for the textures to Jerry Jones's Skeletal Mess and to Leslie Nicole's French Kiss.
- Contact Artist Send Artist an Email
More about lois bryan
- Location
- wv, united states
- Artist Biography
- "Those who don't believe in magic will never find it." ~Roald Dahl Welcome to Lois Bryan Photography and Digital Art at The Untapped Source. My images are based on the photographs I capture, mostly with Nikon cameras and lenses. Although my primary goal will always be to catch that ...


text:
You are our heroes
Flags and flowers mark Memorial Day, when gratitude is expressed for those who died in military service.
By TOM MARSHALL
Published May 29, 2007
BUSHNELL - Ralph Summers stood for more than an hour in the hot sun Monday at Florida National Cemetery, among the thousands who came to pay their Memorial Day respects.
Through the color guards and speeches and songs, the 87-year-old World War II veteran from Leesburg kept his feet, watching as vets older than he raised shaky hands to salute the flag. When it came time to sing God Bless America, his voice was louder than most.
He clapped for the four soldiers buried there this year from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. "You are our heroes, " said the cemetery's assistant director, Candice Underwood. And he clapped again for the main speaker, Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp.
Summers wavered only once, when the lonely notes of taps filtered through the pine trees.
Then, for a brief moment, he sobbed for the brothers he left behind in the South Pacific, and for his wife buried in the cemetery plot next to his.
They met and married just 21 days after the Army sergeant returned from the fighting in 1944, and he would have been sent back to invade the home islands of Japan if Truman hadn't dropped the atom bomb.
"They picked 10 of us out, and brought us up to Fort Hood, " he said, recalling one superior who lined them up before a map of Japan in the spring or early summer of 1945.
"They said, 'Gentlemen, ' - and I'd never been called a gentleman by an officer in my life - 'gentlemen, that's where you're going to be. You're going to be in the first wave, ' " Summers said. "I was glad to get home."
Standing nearby, Nancy Powers of Bad Axe, Mich., said she was there to remember her father, who served on Guadalcanal and didn't get home until after she'd been born in July 1945.
"He said it was so strange coming back to a wife and two kids he hardly knew, " she said. "He said that just a few years ago, before he died."
Other family members headed straight to the grave markers to be with loved ones.
Adel Ramirez of Mascotte stood near his 31-year-old brother, Eric Ulysses Ramirez, who was killed on Nov. 12, 2004, near Fallujah in Iraq.
His promotion to sergeant had come through that very day.
"He was driving, " Ramirez said, describing the improvised explosive device that hit his brother's Army Humvee. "Four people were in there, but he was the only one that passed away."
Back at the ceremony, Chaplain Harold Marcou decided to cut his benediction short. He'd save his longer prayers for a cooler day, he said.
"I want to thank you for my people who are resting here, " Marcou said.
"Remember them in all your prayers. And pray hard for peace. Pray real hard."
Tom Marshall can be reached at email@example.com or (352) 848-1431.


text:
Happy Thanksgiving to all those that celebrate!! We hope you spend today with family, friends and take a minute to just enjoy life and blessings.
We just want to say thanks to you guys for being here and supporting Rob and Kristen through thick and thin. You guys are amazing and prove time, and time again that they do in fact have the best fans. You're awesome!!
And we'd like to also thank you for supporting us through these last (almost) 3 years. Thank you for all the support you give us each day whether is with a comment, a twitter message or just a sweet email. You guys really do brighten up our day. So thank you!!
~Alma, Ingi, Casey, Karen, and Ruby


text:
iHerb Customer Reviews
Savings of: $3.81 (33% off)
Pretty but...
Posted by Reviewer1270081 on May 25, 2012
I loved the candle, its large and nice and burns for sooo long. But the shape is a bit impractical, so you will need those jumbo sized matches to relight it once you have burned like 1/3 of it, because its hard to reach the bottom of the glass tube with a regular match. Apart from that it is all good. (Unscented)
it's wonderful
Posted by Reviewer1682718 on Oct 19, 2012
burns clean and beautiful and for a very long time
Posted by Reviewer2478642 on Oct 19, 2011
Very happy with this candle, there is no soot, and the candle itself looks great. So happy iherb carries aloha bay candles.
Items 1-3 of 3 total


text:
United Way Recognizes Nautic Global Group Contributions
March 6, 2014
Thanks to contributions from our incredible employees, the United Way of Elkhart County announced today that Nautic Global Group has earned the honor of being among the Top Ten companies in Elkhart County to contribute to their 2013 donation campaign.
This morning, representatives from the United Way of Elkhart County stopped by the NGG corporate office to present a plaque to show their appreciation of the contributions.
Steve Ott, Director of Human Resources for Nautic Global Group (pictured), accepted the plaque on behalf of all NGG employees who contribute to the ongoing United Way Campaign, in both Elkhart and Kosciusko Counties.
Nautic Global Group contributed $7,500 dollars to the United Way Campaign in combination for both Elkhart and Kosciusko Counties, and employee contributions in both counties brought the grand total to $70,000.
Contributions to the United Way will help provide assistance to local families in cases of catastrophic events in their lives. For example, families who have recently lost their homes and possessions will be provided with food, shelter and clothing to get back on their feet. Approximately 200 cancer patients will receive a cancer journal, care and counseling that might not otherwise be provided through convention medical outlets. And close to 3,000 local school children will receive additional assistance to help them succeed in the classroom.


text:
Michigan celebrates Newborn Screening
September is the National 50th Anniversary of Newborn Screening and to recognize this significant public health achievement, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) joins national organizations, federal officials, statewide partners, and other states in celebrating the accomplishments of newborn screening in Michigan.
In 2012, 275 babies in Michigan were diagnosed with a disorder found through newborn screening and treated at special medical management clinics.
"Newborn Screening is truly a public health success story. Since Michigan began screening in 1965, more than 7,500 infants have been diagnosed, and their lives saved or improved through early treatment," said Dr. Matthew Davis, Chief Medical Executive for the Michigan Department of Community Health.
Following development of a new screening test by Dr. Robert Guthrie, the first state-mandated newborn screening programs began in 1963 to find babies with a rare condition known as "PKU".
When detected early and treated with a special diet, children with PKU lead a normal life. Fifty years later, more than 4 million newborns are screened annually in every state for at least 29 different genetic and metabolic conditions, hearing loss and critical congenital heart defects. Michigan's newborn screening panel currently includes 54 disorders.
Newborn screening keeps rare conditions from stealing children's lives.
Without screening, there are typically no red flags to alert families or physicians that a baby might become sick or develop disabilities. Ultimately these disorders can affect how the body breaks down food, fights infection, and may also impact brain development, hormones, blood cells, lungs or breathing.
"Birthing hospitals, midwives, primary care providers and medical specialists all work together with families and the Department of Community Health laboratory and follow-up program to ensure a successful newborn screening system. This year as we celebrate the nation's 50th anniversary of newborn screening, we also want to recognize our own state's accomplishments and thank the many partners who make this vital public health program such a success," Dr. Davis said in a statement.
For very rare conditions like galactosemia to somewhat more common ones like cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia, newborn screening allows diagnosis and prompt treatment to prevent or lessen the serious effects of an underlying disorder.
Nationally, newborn screening identifies disorders in more than 12,000 babies each year.
September 2013 was also proclaimed Michigan Newborn Screening Awareness Month by Governor Rick Snyder.
Below are some questions and answers from the Michigan Department of Community Health regarding newborn screening.
When did Newborn Screening begin?
Newborn screening for a rare metabolic disease called PKU (phenylketonuria) began in 1965. PKU causes severe developmental delay and disability, but can be treated by limiting the amount of protein in the diet. Today, a child with PKU can have normal development when detected by Newborn Screening and treated early.
How many disorders can be found today?
The number of disorders on the Newborn Screening panel has increased over the years as new technologies and treatments became available. The screening panel now includes 50-plus disorders including hearing. If these disorders are not found and treated soon after birth, permanent disability, illness or death may result.
How many babies are found?
Each year, more than 200 babies, or about 1 in 500 to 600 births, are found to have one of the disorders. Over the years, nearly 4,000 Michigan babies have been diagnosed and received treatment as a result of Newborn Screening.
What is Michigan's newborn screening law?
Michigan's newborn screening law is part of the public health code. This law designates the state public health laboratory as a centralized site to perform Newborn Screening, and establishes a fee for testing. It allows blood specimens to be used for medical research under certain conditions, and also lets parents ask the hospital to draw a second specimen to keep for themselves.
How much does newborn screening cost?
The current cost is $98.08 per baby. This fee supports the laboratory costs of screening, follow-up, and medical management for infants and children affected by the disorders. Hospitals typically purchase a supply of newborn screening cards. The cost is included in the birthing and newborn nursery charges that are usually covered by insurance. The fee can be waived for families with financial hardship.
When is Newborn Screening done?
Whether a baby is born in the hospital or at home, Newborn Screening should be done between 24 and 36 hours after birth.
How is Newborn Screening done?
A few drops of blood are drawn from the heel. The blood sample is used to fill five circles on a filter paper card and allowed to dry. It is then sent to the state public health laboratory at the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) for testing. These samples are often called dried blood spots (DBS).
Why are five spots collected?
Five spots are usually collected to be sure there are enough for all the tests. Sometimes not all the spots are suitable for testing, so it helps to have more than are needed. In the event there is a positive (abnormal) test, the lab can double check the result with the extra spots. Having five spots available limits the number of newborns who need to have their blood drawn again.
What happens if my baby has a positive (abnormal) screen?
When there is a positive screen, parents will be contacted by their baby's physician. Sometimes only a repeat screening test is needed. In other instances, the baby will be referred to a medical management center for a diagnostic work-up and treatment if needed. Specialists will be available to work with the family, explaining the condition and next steps that should be taken to assure the best possible health outcome for a baby.


text:
Asustek Computer, a leading supplier of computer components and notebooks, said in a statement at Taiwan Stock Exchange (TSE) that it had never violated patents of IBM Corp. and that it is able to proof it. As a result, no material impact is expected on the company.
"Asus will work with patent lawyers to cooperate with ITC for its investigation on IBM's complaints. Based on the evaluation of patent lawyers and industry experts, Asus is very confident that Asus had not made any violation to IBM's patents. In addition, Asus does not expect there will be any material impacts," the statement with TSE by Asustek Computer reads.
Back in mid-December '07 IBM said it had filed a complaint against Asustek Computer and its subsidiary in North America with the United States International Trade Commission. The inventor of the personal computer (PC) claims that certain products and components which Asus makes and sells infringe its patents. IBM demands ban for those products from import into the U.S.
In particular, IBM alleges that certain products by Asustek infringe its patents that cover PC power supply (U.S. Patent No. 5,008,829), automatic fan speed control (5,249,741) as well as a method and hardware that make a cluster of computers appear as a single host on network (5,371,852). If the first two patents may be infringed by Asustek's notebook computers, barebone systems, servers as well as system components, then the third one is may be infringed by Asus network equipment and servers.
In the same statement Asustek notified its shareholders that the spin-off of Pegatron and Unihan companies has been completed and now Asustek Computer is a company that concentrates solely on own-brand products.
"Asus had become a pure brand company after transferring the ODM related operation to Pegatron and Unihan Corporations. In general, Asus clients and senior management are positive about the spin-off event. Asus, Pegarton and Unihan will continue seeking growth in every business line, and expect to develop each company to become a world-class enterprise in the future," the statement reads.


text:
full size
Product Details
These garment-dyed goodies feature the same great quality as our famous women's cords, with an easy straight-leg fit kids love. To achieve the high-impact hues, we dunk each individual pair in a giant bath of special neon dyes until every nook and cranny is fully saturated with color. The final product is bold and bright, with a broken-in feel that's just right.
Size & Fit Details


text:
Spencer, Croley lead Ishpeming girls basketball comeback while Gwinn boys prevails in two overtimes
MANISTIQUE – Sophomore Jessica Spencer and junior Gabby Croley helped Ishpeming overcome a slow start to defeat Manistique, 55-43, on Saturday afternoon in high school girls basketball.
The Emeralds jumped out to a 10-5 lead after one quarter before Spencer, who finished with 25 points and 10 rebounds, and Croley, who had 14 points, caught fire.
"We came out a little slow for the second game this week," Hematites coach Mark Dellangelo said. "We were getting good looks but not converting.
"Then Jessica and Gabby just put us on their backs and got us going."
Ishpeming finished the regular season 14-6 overall and finished second in the Mid-Peninsula Conference at 9-3 after winning their fourth straight and for the 10th time in 12 games.
The Hematites turned the early deficit into a 21-14 halftime lead and held off Manistique (7-13, 2-10) in the second half.
Sophomore Maggie Morrison led the Emeralds with 13 points, while senior teammate Gabby Lafayette added 12.
Ishpeming also won the JV game, but no score was available.
Gwinn 88, Superior
Central 84 (2OT)
At Eben on Friday, the Gwinn boys forced overtime on a shot by senior Derek Reetz with two seconds left in regulation, then took the lead for good in the final minute of the second overtime on a rare 3-pointer by junior Owen DeVooght.
"I hate to even pinpoint any of my players, there were so many crucial plays in this game," Modeltowners coach Darren Sinnaeve said.
"Gwinn didn't make the critical mistakes and that's why they prevailed," SC coach Herb Jenkins said.
The Cougars (11-6) led after each of the first three quarters – 15-10, 29-25 and 49-47 – while the game was tied 68-68 after regulation and 78-78 at the end of the first OT.
SC junior Nick Maki scored the final points of the first OT to force another period on a traditional three-point play, hitting a floater, getting fouled and making the subsequent free throw.
Each team had several key players foul out and miss all or most of the second OT – Reetz and junior Justin Nyquist for Gwinn (14-5) and seniors Trevor Maki and Tyler Kienitz for SC.
Reetz, Nyquist and Cougars senior Matt Verbrigghe shared scoring honors with 20 points apiece, while DeVooght had 17. Gwinn sophomore Justin Beauchamp scored 15 points, all coming after halftime.
Verbrigghe also pulled down 11 rebounds, while senior teammate Dan Steward had 14 points, Nick Maki 13 points and senior Bryce Richard 12 points.
Carney-Nadeau 65,
Rep.-Michigamme 41
At Republic on Saturday, Hawks' 6-foot-6 center Jonatan Lygdman scored 16 points, grabbed seven rebounds and blocked six shots, but it wasn't enough to stop all a long-range shooting barrage by the Skyline Conference leaders.
The Wolves' Wade Schetter led the downtown display with 31 points, including four 3-pointers, while teammate Jason DuPont had 10 points and two triples.
"Carney can bomb them from outside, they've got a lot of good 3-point shooters," said coach Bill Radcliffe of R-M (4-14, 0-12 Skyline Conference).
He tried to move his defense to the perimeter while leaving Lygdman to guard the basket, which allowed him to accumulate blocks.
C-N (14-3, 11-2) led 20-10 after one quarter and 30-20 at halftime before opening things up in the second half.


text:
Your Cat, Your Life
The Scoop
Cat News, Politics
Meow-Out-Loud Humor
Cat Chic
Gear and Glam
Cat Breeds
Foods & Treats
Health & Care
Behavior & Training
Cat of the Day
Other pets in your family: Winnie (Angel) | Missy (Angel) | Pea | Cookie | Mac (Angel) | Finnley
Copyright © I-5 Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.
Visit Dogster


text:
DL link thanks to Veronicaspuffy
source | youtube
Wow this interviewer by far was the best. He was so creative with his questions. Asked things no one else did. Was funny, delightful to listen to,knew so much about the topic, and even more about technical details. I really enjoyed watching this.ReplyDelete
I can't veiw this interview????ReplyDelete
the interviewer looks cuteReplyDelete
where is kristen?ReplyDelete
I love all Rob interviews, but it's quite short.ReplyDelete
i can't watch it :'(ReplyDelete
I can't watch this interview either :( :(ReplyDelete
Great interview!! Made them all think in the middle of a press junket lolReplyDelete
Kristen really is a generous person. Even being asked about downside of her fame, she didn't say bad thing about papz. She's always shown her kindness to people around her. All she want is to be a professional actress who is dedicated to her work. I think people who have been hard on her might need to rethink what they have done to a kind girl.ReplyDelete
I really enjoyed this interview...such intelligent questions. I learned a lot and I'm sure the actors and Bill Condon appreciated being asked good questions. Good job!ReplyDelete
Wow..I like kristen's answer, she looks smart, kindand down to earthReplyDelete
Robs interviews are always amazing, even when short he is such a smart and charming guyReplyDelete
Promote what you love instead of bashing what you hate <3
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.
Swedish Greys - a WordPress theme from Nordic Themepark. Converted by LiteThemes.com.


text:
Who'd Be Nuts Enough to Sell Apple?: Opinion
What the heck is happening here? I can't see any reason to sell this stock and I see every reason to have it on your watchlists and be prepared to hit the buy button at any moment.
If you have any investing rule to live by it should be to find companies that have double digit projections for growth in sales and earnings and buy them when their P/E is lower than the markets.
Look at what has been happening to the price of Apple when compared to the price of the Value Line Index (my market proxy) over the past 2 1/2 months. While the Value Like Index has been flat, Apple fell 20%:
Let's look at all the reasons why Apple is a bargain.
Apple, together with subsidiaries, designs, manufactures, and markets mobile communication and media devices, personal computers, and portable digital music players; and sells related software, services, peripherals, networking solutions, and third-party digital content and applications worldwide. Its products and services include iPhone, iPad, Mac, iPod, Apple TV, the iOS and Mac OS X operating systems, iCloud, and various accessory and support offerings, as well as a range of consumer and professional software applications.
The company sells its products and services to consumers, small and mid-sized business, education, enterprise, and government customers through its retail stores, online stores, and direct sales force, as well as through third-party cellular network carriers, wholesalers, retailers, and value-added resellers. In addition, it offers various third-party iPhone, iPad, Mac, and iPod compatible products, including application software, printers, storage devices, speakers, headphones, and other accessories and peripherals, through its online and retail stores; and digital content and applications through the iTunes Store, App Store, iBookstore, and Mac App Store. Apple was founded in 1976 and is headquartered in Cupertino, California. (Yahoo Finance profile)
Factors to Consider (Technical factors provided by Barchart): When there are technical sell signals in stocks that are fundamentally sound, that can be a good time to put them on your watchlist and be prepared to buy them at a discount. There is an 88% Barchart technical sell signal and a Trend Spotter sell signal. The stock is trading below its 20-, 50- and 100-day moving averages. The price is at a 22.78% discount to its one year high and the Relative Strength Index is a very low 27.33%. The price was recently $544.65 which is below its 50-day moving average of $645.25.
Fundamental factors: This is one of the most widely followed companies on Wall Street where 47 brokerage firms have assigned 56 analysts to monitor the numbers. They project revenue to be up 23.60% this year and another 15.10% next year. Earnings are estimated to be up 13.60% this year, an additional 17.10% next year and continue to increase at an annual rate of 22.03% for the next five years.


text:
One of the first celebratory soirees to kick off your upcoming nuptials is the ever-exciting engagement party. Our arrangement of engagement party invitations is not only wildly diverse, but perfect for any upcoming party or commemorative get-together.
Our rich collection of engagement invitations can be personalized however you may need. From choosing the best text option, to making sure the color scheme is just right, you have the options of adding a bit of your own flare into every invite you send.


text:
Protest against Huntingdon Life Sciences cruelty to animals! Persuade Astra Zeneca to stop funding Huntingdon Life Sciences. SHAC want to put make AstraZeneca and its employees stop and think! Support their worldwide week of action
Meet this Thursday at Edinburgh Park Station at 4.15pm
mobile number 07938986094
Facebook: Tracy Tumble


text:
Before I go, Where are these?Posted Wednesday, September 30, 2009, at 4:40 PM
I can't help myself.... didn't want to leave town without leaving another quiz for ya.
Skeeter, I'm sure you'll get this, but, it's not on a main road, so possibly not. I can only hope to stump you at least once!
To be fair, I am a little concerned at the size of this, on my PC it shows up bigger so it might be difficult for you to look close. Click on the picture and it will bring up a bigger picture for you.
Showing most recent comments first
[Show in chronological order instead]
Yep to all! You guys are good...and glad that Skeeter didn't know for sure. heeeheee....
I am downloading pictures, so will put some more up soon. Maybe tomorrow...I'm sleepy
-- Posted by jessiemiller on Fri, Oct 2, 2009, at 7:40 PM
I'm not sure where this is but it looks like a good place for chukar hunting.
-- Posted by skeeter on Fri, Oct 2, 2009, at 7:02 AM
In the distance, those are the wind turbines close to the county landfill of Bennett Rd and Old Oregon Trail Rd.
-- Posted by farsela sotto on Wed, Sep 30, 2009, at 7:18 PM
I love this view. It is off Highway 20, as kcp11 said, Bennett Mountain looking down on Bennett road.
-- Posted by jtrotter on Wed, Sep 30, 2009, at 7:01 PM
Respond to this blog
Posting a comment requires free registration:
Sharing the Beauty
- Archives
- Blog RSS feed
- Comments RSS feed
- Login
I am interested in this Community, County, and the beautiful state of Idaho. Most of my photos will be in Idaho, but from time to time, they will be my vacations aay from Idaho. You'll see lots of my Children and Grand children, along with others in my family. Of course there will be horses and horse related things, and things I photo'd horseback.
Hot topicsNew Beginnings
(4 ~ 10:54 AM, Dec 26)
Remembrances and our own Mortality
What Kind of People Come to a Roping?
Wedding of the Year!
Elmore County Fair 2014 and back home again


text:
Man arrested in Iron River on assault, drug charges
Dr. Theodore B. Fornetti
IRON MOUNTAIN – Dr. Theodore B. Fornetti, 91, of Iron Mountain, passed away on Monday, Feb. 25, 2013, at his home.
He was born April 19, 1921, in Iron Mountain, son of the late Anton and Angeline (Carollo) Fornetti. Ted graduated from Kingsford High School in 1939, and was a lifelong resident of the area. Following graduation, he attended Marquette University School of Dentistry in Milwaukee, Wis., and obtained his doctorate in 1944.
Ted was a U.S. Navy veteran and was stationed at various bases in the states during World War II. He re-enlisted during the Korean War and eventually was honorably discharged with the rank of lieutenant.
Ted married Eleanor Campagnola on July 3, 1944, at St. Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Kingsford.
He started his career in dentistry traveling to schools throughout northern Dickinson County to provide students with dental care. Ted went into private practice in 1948. which he continued until his retirement in 1980.
For a few years following his retirement, Ted and his wife, Eleanor volunteered their time to perform dental procedures on patients at St. Jude's hospital on the Island of St. Lucia.
Ted and Eleanor were generous, community minded individuals, instrumental in the formation of Bay West College. They were also an integral part of helping to secure the land to build the current Carmelite Monastery. Ted was a faithful member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and the Holy Name Society.
He served as past president of both the Cloverland Dental Association and the Rotary Club.
Ted was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time at camp. Over the years, he and his family planted thousands of trees at their camp and on other properties in Dickinson County.
Ted also enjoyed tinkering in his garage and most of all, spending time with family and friends.
Ted is survived by his wife of 68 years, Eleanor; five children, Judy (Don) Angera, Ted J. (Mary) Fornetti, and Tony (Darlene) Fornetti, all of Iron Mountain, Tish (Don) Guinter of Lake Zurich, Ill., and John (Terese) Fornetti of Iron Mountain; 13 grandchildren, Jeff (Laura) Angera of Mt. Pleasant, Mich., Carissa (Don) Mahoney of Cincinnati, Ted A. (Kristy) Fornetti, Paul (Angela) Fornetti and Kathryn (Adam) Husing, all of Iron Mountain, Nick (Kortnee) Fornetti of Kingsford, Andrea (Benjamin) Fornetti-Wilson of Paris, Ill., Greg Guinter of Chicago, Mark Guinter of Lake Zurich, Daniel (Mary) Fornetti of St. Louis, Mo., David Fornetti of Milwaukee, and Julia and Peter Fornetti, both of Iron Mountain; 19 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, David and Michael Fornetti.
The funeral liturgy will be on Thursday at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Iron Mountain. Msgr. James Kaczmarek will offer the Mass of Christian Burial.
Burial will be in the Iron Mountain Cemetery Park.
Ted's grandsons will serve as pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Carmelite Monastery or Bay West College.
Condolences may be expressed to the family of Theodore Fornetti online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com
The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon and Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the funeral arrangements.