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Debates of Oct. 7th, 2005
House of Commons Hansard #134 of the 38th Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was health.
- Question Period
- Spirit Drinks Trade Act
- Food and Drugs Act
- Seniors
- Selkirk—Interlake
- Terry Fox Run
- Jean-Philippe Paiement and Anouk Charbonneau
- Relief Aid International
- Softwood Lumber
- Fire Prevention Week
- 150th Anniversary of Sainte-Sophie
- Mental Illness Awareness Week
- Great Lakes
- Heroes Remember Project
- Passports
- World Sight Day
- Caisse de Dépôt et Placement du Québec
- Oil and Gas Rebate
- Madeline-Ann Aksich
- Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières
- Seniors
- Softwood Lumber
- David Dingwall
- Budget Surplus
- Softwood Lumber
- Automobile Industry
- Home Heating Prices
- Technology Partnerships Canada
- Taxation
- Campaign Financing
- Government Aircraft
- Veterans Affairs
- Summit of the Americas
- Veterans Affairs
- Public Service of Canada
- Agriculture
- Airports
- Softwood Lumber
- Public Safety
- Correctional Service of Canada
- Gasoline Prices
- Fisheries
- Economic Development
- Social Development
- Presence in Gallery
- Committees of the House
- Oral Question Period
- Business of the House
- National Child Benefit
- Order in Council Appointments
- Unanticipated Surpluses Act
- Criminal Code
- An Act to Protect and Maintain Orders, Decorations and Medals for Future Generations
- Appointment of Clerk
- Honorary Officer of the House of Commons
- Petitions
- Questions Passed as Orders for Returns
- Question No. 138
- Points of Order
- Committees of the House
- Food and Drugs Act
- Parliament of Canada Act
Food and Drugs Act
Government Orders
10:15 a.m.
West Nova
Nova Scotia
Robert Thibault Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health
Mr. Speaker, following the report of the Standing Committee on Health on its review of Bill C-28, I am pleased to speak on the bill, which proposes two amendments to the Food and Drugs Act. The amendments would provide the Minister of Health with the authority to allow Canadians faster access to a wider variety of safe and nutritious food products.
I would like to take the opportunity to reiterate the reasons why this bill was introduced. The proposed amendments are in part in response to the concerns raised by the Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations regarding an administrative process put in place by Health Canada to allow Canadians faster access to safe and nutritious food products in specific circumstances.
This administrative process permitted the issuance of notices of interim marketing authorizations under the Food and Drugs Act regulations. These notices allowed the director, defined as the assistant deputy minister of the Health Products and Food Branch of Health Canada, to exempt certain foods from application of the regulations after a thorough safety assessment had concluded their consumption would not harm human health. By doing so, the director was able to allow the sale of certain foods by manufacturers and producers while the regulations were amended to formalize the authorization.
Essentially, the Joint Standing Committee on the Scrutiny of Regulations maintains that the regulations authorizing the issuance of notices of interim marketing authorizations go beyond the scope of the Food and Drugs Act.
This bill ensures that the scope of these regulations authorizing the issuance of notices of interim marketing authorizations can continue to be used by Health Canada in order to allow Canadians faster access to a wider variety of safe and nutritious food products.
Since these regulations on interim marketing authorizations have been in place, consumers have had quicker access to new and safe food products. For example, foods to which vitamins or mineral nutrients were added to increase their nutritional value were offered more quickly on the market. Moreover, the notices of interim marketing authorizations allowed for the quicker sale of foods from cultures that were treated with agricultural chemicals, including safe and effective pest control products.
As I have noted, the bill addresses the concerns of the Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations, but it also ensures that we maintain this useful smart regulation approach.
The first proposed amendment would address the concerns of the standing joint committee by providing the Minister of Health with the authority to exempt some food products from the application, in whole or in part, of the Food and Drugs Act and the applicable requirements of the food and drug regulations.
The minister would do this by issuing an interim marketing authorization, which would allow the immediate sale of some food products for which scientific assessment has established that there is a reasonable certainty no harm would result from their consumption, pending completion of the full regulatory process to amend the regulations.
In other words, the products would not pose undue risks to human health. The science would have been completed, just not the lengthy regulatory amendment process, which would continue to be applied.
To underscore this latter point, I repeat that the issuance of the interim marketing authorization would not affect or circumvent the conduct of a thorough safety assessment prior to the availability of these food products on the market. Interim marketing authorizations could only be issued for food additives, veterinary drugs and agricultural chemicals that have already been subject to a thorough safety assessment before being listed in the regulations.
Health Canada would only give consideration to issuing an interim marketing authorization if it has concluded that the sale of the food products containing the substance in question would not pose a hazard to the health of the consumer.
This limited scope of application of the interim marketing authorization mechanism in the bill is exactly the same as the current regulatory mechanism that was reviewed by the standing joint committee. The only significant difference introduced by this bill is that it clearly specifies that the authority in the Food and Drugs Act is in the hands of the Minister of Health.
The second part of Bill C-28 deals with pest control products and their regulation pursuant to the provisions of the new Pest Control Products Act and the Food and Drug Regulations. The new Pest Control Products Act, which was given royal assent in December of 2002, empowers the minister to specify maximum residue limits for the product or for its components or derivatives in food. When specifying maximum residue limits, the minister must evaluate the health risks of the product or its components or derivatives and determine if they are acceptable.
To that end, he must determine with reasonable certainty that no harm to human health will result from consuming a food item containing a residue level of a specific pest control product no greater that the specified maximum limit.
However, the adulteration provisions in the Food and Drugs Act and its regulations state that foods are adulterated if they contain residues of pest control products above levels set out in the regulations. Therefore, foods containing residues of pest control products at or below the maximum residue limit specified by the minister under the Pest Control Products Act cannot be sold until the specified maximum residue limit is established in the food and drug regulations.
Currently it can take up to two years from the time that the regulatory evaluation has been completed to the time when the food potentially containing the residues is permitted for sale under the Food and Drugs Act.
The proposed amendment to the Food and Drugs Act to recognize maximum residue limits specified under the new Pest Control Products Act for Food and Drugs Act purposes would result in administrative efficiencies and would also benefit consumers, by providing timely access to safe foods, and the agricultural industry, by allowing faster access to improved pest control products for use on food crops.
Bill C-28 builds on the October 2004 Speech from the Throne objective of providing a "predictable regulatory system that accomplishes public policy objectives efficiently while eliminating unintended impacts".
The proposed amendments are also in line with the ongoing intent of the Government of Canada's smart regulation initiative and the recommendations from the external advisory committee on smart regulation, which aim, in part, to provide access to safe products in a more timely fashion and remove possible restrictions on international trade.
In addition, the proposed amendments will support ongoing work under the North American Free Trade Agreement technical working group on pesticides, through which Health Canada and the United States Environmental Protection Agency have accelerated bilateral harmonization in the registration of pest control products in order to provide faster and simultaneous access to a wider range of newer, safer pest control tools in both countries.
In conclusion, I wish to express my gratitude for the hard work of the Standing Committee on Health in its consideration of this bill. Bill C-28 contributes to maintaining the safety of the food supply and offers advantages to the consumer and to the food and agricultural industries. I urge my colleagues to support the passage of this bill.
Food and Drugs Act
Government Orders
10:20 a.m.
Gordon O'Connor Carleton—Lanark, ON
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to speak to Bill C-28, an act to amend the Food and Drugs Act.
Regulations that have no basis in legislation are a constant problem that only recently have been addressed in any significant way. Often when legislation is made, the regulations that allow for the implementation and enforcement of the law are made after the fact by the relevant department or ministry.
Essentially, Parliament confers upon the minister the power to create regulations, provided they do not exceed the parameters of the legislation. What often happens, however, is that the lengthy and convoluted process required in creating regulations results in regulations that are technically not legal. Powers that have not been confirmed by law are given through regulation to the minister. Not only does this situation violate the supremacy of Parliament, it effectively allows law to be made without any accountability or oversight.
While some irregularities are due to simple mistakes, others are deliberate attempts to ignore the intent and alter the outcome of legislation. Thanks to the rare passage of a private member's bill, Bill C-205 in 2003, which I might add was the result of much hard work by its sponsor, the Conservative member for Newton—North Delta, Parliament now has greater powers to ensure that law by regulation is curtailed.
This bill is a direct result of five years of pressure by the Standing Joint Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations on Health Canada. The irregularity of the regulation was first pointed out in 1999 and it is only now, after years of resistance, that the department has finally brought this bill forward.
The bill is an amendment to the Food and Drugs Act. Currently, a regulation allows the director, in this case the deputy minister of health responsible for health products, to issue notices of interim market authorizations. This regulation gives the director administrative discretion that exceeds the legislative authority granted by Parliament to the governor in council. In other words, the regulation contradicts the authority of the original legislation. This bill seeks to correct this discrepancy.
The regulation was created in 1997. Since that time, 82 interim market authorizations have been made, but because the regulation violates the legislation to which it applies, all of these authorizations have technically been illegal. The amendment seeks to fix this irregularity by giving the minister the authority to make interim market authorizations.
The bill also seeks to exempt any food that contains an agricultural chemical at or below a limit specified under the new Pest Control Products Act. Those foods containing these safe levels of substances can be sold because their sale poses no harm to consumers.
The bill applies to the immediate sale of food products that contain pesticides, veterinary pharmaceuticals, added vitamins, minerals and amino acids at or below the specified maximum limit. The bill is not creating from scratch a new practice, but simply is making legal or enshrining in law a practice that has been taking place for years.
The Conservative Party supports this amendment because regulations that violate the letter and/or intent of the law should not be tolerated. Any action that eliminates irregularities should be encouraged. We also support writing into law the interim market authorizations. As long as the safety of Canadians is accounted for, there is no reason that food and other products should not be allowed for sale if the substances they contain do not exceed a specified safe level.
These measures allow Canadian food producers and manufacturers to quickly bring their products to market, increasing their availability to compete. Canadian consumers also benefit by gaining quicker access to new and modified products.
Like other smart regulations, interim market authorization creates a level playing field for Canadian businesses, especially within the U.S. market. Currently, the U.S. government allows food products in the approval stage to be marketed, given that they are not harmful or restricted by other laws.
That being said, caution is needed. Although interim market authorizations have been common practice since 1997 supposedly without incident, that is not to say that unsafe food products have not been prematurely authorized for sale. Not only might their sale pose a health risk, but the government may be liable for damages in the event of unsafe food, causing problems.
Interim marketing authorizations are necessary and welcome, but must be used only when it is known beyond doubt that whatever substance is in a food product is at or below the approved safe level.
In summary, Bill C-28 is a corrective measure to bring an existing regulation in line with the legislation to which it applies. We want to reduce the number of regulations that contradict the authority of legislation. This will take years, but it is a necessary undertaking and is worth the effort. We support this change as a small step toward making better law and law making.
Food and Drugs Act
Government Orders
10:30 a.m.
West Nova
Nova Scotia
Robert Thibault Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to see the continued support of the member and his colleagues on this important matter. His colleagues who serve on the health committee have done great work on the bill, in advancing it and in making sure that it meets its intended purposes. Witnesses appeared before the committee and they were questioned thoroughly, I can assure the member and the House.
One of the things which I think is important, and perhaps the member recognizes this and could give us an example, is our competitiveness and competitors in the food industry, be they producers, transformers or manufacturers of final products. We have a joint process and work in harmony with the United States, which makes sense because, as the member mentioned, the U.S. is our primary trading partner. We do evaluation of new pest control products together. It makes sense rather than both countries doing it independently and going through our own processes. We have a harmonized process.
Under our current regulations after that process determines its safety, we go through the regulatory amendment process to get the maximum level residue in our regulations. Those regulations have to be gazetted. We have to hear from the public. We have to have the second round of consultations. Then there is approval at the end by Treasury Board. This process can take a couple of years.
These intramarketing agreements permit after the science has been done and after the harmonized evaluation process has determined that it is safe, that they can be put on the market, but the process still continues. They are still gazetted, the maximum levels. The public can have a second round of comments and there can be further considerations.
Would the member not agree that this is a better way for our industry to participate and compete with our American trading partners and make sure that the safety of Canadians continues to be protected in a very transparent fashion?
Food and Drugs Act
Government Orders
10:30 a.m.
Gordon O'Connor Carleton—Lanark, ON
Mr. Speaker, when it comes to food, we must always have safety as the first priority. We must always be assured that our consumers are not eating food that contains material that is harmful to their health.
Beyond that first priority, we have to think about our economy, business and assisting the various food manufacturers in retailing their product. That is why our party supports the move to have these interim authorizations, as long as there is no question of any health risk to citizens.
Food and Drugs Act
Government Orders
10:30 a.m.
Guy Côté Portneuf, QC
Mr. Speaker, I am somewhat disappointed to hear our Conservative colleagues say that they will be supporting Bill C-28. There has been a lot of talk this morning about the importance of food safety.
Is there not some concern that, under pressure, the government may be tempted to expedite the process in some cases so that certain products can be marketed more quickly? I understand that the need to ensure the health and safety of consumers is mentioned in the bill, but scientific studies are sort of being put aside. Is that not cause for concern?
Food and Drugs Act
Government Orders
10:30 a.m.
Gordon O'Connor Carleton—Lanark, ON
Mr. Speaker, as I said before, the first priority is the safety of the consumer. We want to make sure that Canadians do not consume food products that endanger their lives.
However, if I understand the legislation, which is an amendment to current legislation, we are not authorizing government agencies to permit unsafe food to go on the market. Before they make this interim authorization, they will be checking the various levels of pesticides, herbicides or whatever they have to check before the food goes on the market. To my knowledge there have been very few incidents of food that is unsafe going on the market under the previous informal arrangement. We support the change to the regulations.
Food and Drugs Act
Government Orders
10:35 a.m.
Guy Côté Portneuf, QC
Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure for me to rise today to speak to Bill C-28. In doing so, I will try to warn members of this House, particularly those on the government side, about certain aspects of this bill which we think introduce some safety concerns in the Food and Drug Act.
First I would like to repeat the purpose of this bill to put this debate in the proper context. Bill C-28 is designed to provide the Minister of Health with the authority to issue interim marketing authorizations for foods that contain certain substances at specified levels, and to exempt the foods from the applicable requirements of the Food and Drug Act and its regulations relating to the sale of those foods.
That is already a problem for us. We are talking about exempting certain foods from the applicable requirements relating to the sale of those foods. The substances involved are agricultural chemicals or their components or derivatives, food additives, veterinary drugs, and pest control products. Our understanding is that, based on numerous scientific studies, these products are used on various crops and in the production of foods and drugs. As was mentioned earlier, we all overwhelmingly recognize that this is no problem. But it is important that these scientific studies exist, in order to ensure that there is no risk.
Admittedly, the proposed amendments, in part, are in response to concerns raised by the Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations regarding an administrative process put in place by Health Canada, and I quote:
—to allow Canadians faster access to safe and nutritious food products in specific circumstances.
That has been a source of concern for the Bloc Québécois for quite some time. And one of the main questions we ask ourselves is: Why is it that, at times, Health Canada appears to be unable to resist the pressure from major pharmaceutical and food companies which are in hurry to have their new products approved? Far from alleviating this concern, Bill C-28 exacerbates it by effectively enabling the minister to issue interim authorizations.
What is worrisome to the public in this bill is that Health Canada is increasing the examples of negligence. For instance, in the late 1990s, Health Canada caused an outcry when it wanted to authorize a recombinant bovine growth hormone despite opposition from scientists. In the end, the product's use was not approved.
We could easily have been in the same situation this morning had Bill C-28 passed, which begs the question: if it had passed, would the minister have authorized this product or would he have waited? We do not have the answer to that question, but Bill C-28 would have allowed him to do so. Who knows what the consequences would have been?
Preferring to take risks rather than precautions, the government is agreeing to approve drugs or food products without obtaining all the scientific data required by law. As a result, it is running great risks to the public. This is very important. In order to ensure human food safety, all the scientific data must be obtained. We know that far too often, when it comes to food and drugs, there are unanticipated long-term effects. We have seen this happen. That is why it is important to conduct a thorough scientific assessment of the products put on the market.
Accordingly, the Bloc Québécois has long wanted Canada to follow the European example of taking precaution on food products, drugs and pesticides. If such a principle were in place, GMOs would be labelled and the use of products with unknown consequences would be eliminated.
In our opinion, this bill gives the minister a lot of power. It is as if we were playing Russian roulette with products that could have extremely harmful effects on human health not only in the short and medium terms, but also in the long term.
Understandably, we have two major objections with Bill C-28. As I mentioned a couple of times since the beginning of my presentation, our first objection relates to the power given to the minister which is, as I understand it, a discretionary power to some extent. While this legislation does indeed give to the minister the power to issue interim marketing authorizations, the minister must base his decisions on scientific criteria. He cannot make such a decision merely because of the pressure put on him by a given industry or marketing sector.
The criterion to the effect that the food must not be harmful to the health of the purchaser or consumer, as stated in clause 30.2(1) of the bill, leaves a lot of room for interpretation, and we feel it would be important to set limits in this regard.
Of course, we are talking here about public confidence, not only in the government's regulations on food and drugs, but also in the food that ends up on the table. Indeed, the public must have total confidence in the food that it consumes on a regular basis, but also in drugs and pharmaceutical products. The latter are supposed to be beneficial to people who need them for the relief of various symptoms, or to deal with various diseases. Should these products worsen these people's condition, this would result in a loss of confidence that would be very hard to regain.
This is why it is important to reassure Quebeckers and Canadians on the safety and quality of the food that they consume. The minister should be required to inform the public of the reasons why he agrees to issue an interim marketing authorization. As I mentioned earlier, Bill C-28 would allow the minister to issue such authorizations by relying on criteria that leave a lot of room for interpretation.
Not only would it be absolutely essential that the minister base his decision on sound scientific studies, as I was saying earlier, but should he not do so, he should be required to explain the reasons for issuing these interim marketing authorizations and to specify which lobbies approached him regarding a particular product. This is necessary to ensure public confidence in food safety. That is why it is so important.
People's perceptions weigh very heavily in matters where safety and confidence are an issue. I would certainly not want to presume—and I certainly do not want to give that impression—that the minister would make decisions without proper consideration. I would never imply such a thing. We can only presume that an individual who is responsible for making such decisions will act in good faith.
However, we know full well that some people can be very convincing for all sorts of reasons. Before becoming a member of Parliament, I worked as a sales representative, as some of my colleagues may have done also. I would have never dared lie to one of my clients, but I certainly did my best to point out the positive aspects of the products I was selling.
This discretionary power granted to the minister needs to be properly framed. Unfortunately, Bill C-28 does not give any assurances in that regard.
While it is indeed unfortunate, it is also very typical of this government. It often offers us half-measures or expeditious measures. Surprisingly, on a certain number of issues, it does not seem to be able to take all the necessary precautions or make the necessary decisions, but in other cases, it is overzealous.
I must take a minute here to remind members briefly of a speech I made yesterday.
Yesterday, in my speech about tax havens, I clearly demonstrated how, over the years, the concerted action of the government has brought us to a point where a number of businesses are not paying their fair share of taxes. This situation was brought about by a number of very specific measures.
Unfortunately, in some ways, Bill C-28 is only a half measure and of no reassurance to the Canadian public. It opens the door to certain almost arbitrary decisions which might—though we hope not—endanger the health of our fellow citizens.
That is why, having analyzed the proposed mechanism and heard what civil society organizations have had to say, we will be opposing Bill C-28. We in the Bloc Québécois—and this is a deep-seated conviction—are of the opinion that consumer confidence is an essential component of food marketing. The advantages of an interim marketing authorization process like the one proposed in Bill C-28 are likely to be outweighed by the concerns it raises.
In an area like this one, where the safety of our fellow citizens is concerned, it seems to me that prudence must be the watchword, not speed. Any error could have very unfortunate consequences, and the health of those we purport to serve could suffer seriously as a result.
Extreme precaution is in order. Unfortunately, Health Canada has not addressed all the concerns relating to new product approvals. A mechanism such as this, which involves risk management rather than the principle of precaution, is liable to make consumers more wary. That is the situation. Instead of taking precautions to ensure all the necessary scientific studies have been done, it is a matter of risk management.
I will not, thank the Lord, ever be health minister. I would never want to have to manage that risk. As I said earlier, we can only assume the right decisions will be reached. What we need to do is to ensure they are, based on all necessary scientific studies. The opinion of one individual cannot be relied on, no matter how well-intentioned that individual may be.
The first objective of the Food and Drug Act is to ensure the quality of food and that it does not represent health risks. The health of Quebeckers and Canadians is paramount. Any authorization of new products should be done under the precautionary principle. Unfortunately, Bill C-28 does not include this principle.
This week, the government made a number of announcements. To be indulgent, I would say that these are an election ploy. Today, third reading of Bill C-28 raises deep concerns among us. Let us simply imagine what the reaction would be if the minister did not have all the data at his disposal and made a mistake that would put the health of our citizens at risk. I would not want to carry this burden on my shoulders. I would not want to have to make such a decision.
It is incredible—I was mentioning this earlier during question and comment period—to see that our colleagues from the Conservative Party support this bill, when they regularly defend good citizenship and safety. Yet, in Bill C-28, we find exactly the opposite of many principles that they normally support. I have to tell you that I was a little astounded earlier to hear them say they would support Bill C-28. I still have hope, since our NDP colleagues will certainly speak soon on this bill.
I hope that they will see the risks associated with the bill. If they do not, I invite them to talk to us. That goes for my Liberal and Conservative colleagues as well. I invite them to meet with me or with my colleague from Hochelaga who, I must say, knows the bill a lot better than I do, having spent many hours studying it in detail.
I was saying that the bill does not meet many of our concerns and that it seemed to be an amalgamation of half measures. That is unfortunate but not really surprising since the government is an expert in half measures. That is too often how it responds to situations.
The government has just introduced a federal assistance plan to alleviate the effects of high oil prices. We were very happy since it borrowed large parts of the package we proposed only a few weeks ago when the Minister of Transport was saying the government could not do anything. Only two weeks later, we see him using major parts of what we proposed. Unfortunately, the plan is full of half measures because it does not reach the right persons. There is nothing in it for taxi drivers, farmers and truckers. I know that this is not the object of our debate, but I thought it was important to give it as an example of half measures too often introduced by this government.
So Bill C-28, far from improving our fellow citizens' security, gives rise to concerns. How can we guarantee that a new product is perfectly safe for consumers? In the end, people will have to trust the good judgment of the Minister of Health. But I do not think that that is enough even though that minister does his best and acts in good faith. We think that Bill C-28 should be defeated. Let us say that the status quo would be better than the new regime proposed in Bill C-28.
Food and Drugs Act
Government Orders
10:50 a.m.
West Nova
Nova Scotia
Robert Thibault Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health
Mr. Speaker, I would be able to support all the points raised by the hon. member if they were backed by facts. However, he is mistaken. It is important that I make some clarifications.
The security of the public, the security of food and the wholesomeness of our products are very important things for the health minister; they are his responsibility and they are sacred for him.
First, it is important to recognize that, in the case of food, these authorizations can only be given for products that already exist. We are not talking here of new products, of new chemical products created in a laboratory for consumption and for which political pressure is put on the minister. We are talking about products that are already being used. The case that we are interested in concerns the new uses of different products under different forms, such as, for example, the addition of a vitamin or a grain that we already know to existing products.
Instead of waiting for products to go through the few required years of the regulatory cycle, the minister can, after scientific assessments, authorize that they be put on the market. By doing that, we are not bypassing the scientific assessment process. Once these assessments are completed, we can ask for a temporary authorization. That is already done.
This does not change anything for the Canadian public. It is a response to the House committee's valid requirement that our regulations comply with the legislation. We would not want public servants to take it upon themselves to implement measures under the minister's responsibility. Unless the regulations and the act allow it, that is how we will proceed.
As for the pesticides and control products that farmers want to use, the hon. member's statements suggest that major pharmaceutical companies are putting a great deal of pressure on the minister. That is not so. The request is coming from farmers and manufacturers. The latter want us to be competitive. It is not a question of bypassing scientific assessments. Authorization can only be granted once assessments have been made. It is important to realize that. The safety of food, the public and consumers is at stake.
These assessments are done both here and in the U.S. and yield the same results. In both countries, the process indicates to the government whether it should authorize the use of the products in question and determines the residue limits of certain products. The industries in direct competition south of the border take less time than we do to release products on the market. Our regulatory control cycle usually takes two years. Once scientific assessments are done, the minister will have the power, as he does now, to issue a provisional market release authorization notice. Even if scientific assessments have been done, the process goes forward and we continue to hold consultations and make the prescribed amendments. No shortcuts are taken in the process whatsoever.
We have to realize that this does not concern pharmaceutical products, nor drugs for humans, but in many cases it concerns veterinary products. Again, these are not new products, but existing ones. Their use is assessed, or their residue limits are determined, in the case of pesticides. Public safety is guaranteed and protected.
What we are trying to do is to help our farmers and our industries become competitive on a global scale. To do so, we must provide a smart and effective regulatory control that satisfies consumers and farmers alike.
Food and Drugs Act
Government Orders
10:55 a.m.
Guy Côté Portneuf, QC
Mr. Speaker, I am somewhat disappointed. The overwhelming majority of reasons expressed by the hon. member opposite have to do with market pressures relating to waiting times for regulations or existing before scientific studies are completed. I am sorry, but it seems to me he should know that those regulations are not identical in Canada and in the United States.
Here is a good example: the TCE issue in Shannon. That was something that directly concerned my riding. This bill does not tackle that issue, I realize. Nonetheless, regulations in force in Canada and in various American states are not adequate. In some American states, they were much more rigorous than in Canada.
We must ensure that standards, particularly those in the U.S., which would be more permissive, are not accepted in Canada following a decision by the minister. That is a good example. Market pressures should not override consumer safety.
Food and Drugs Act
Government Orders
10:55 a.m.
The Speaker
When debate resumes later today on this bill, there will be four minutes left for questions and comments that may be addressed to the hon. member for Portneuf—Jacques-Cartier.
We now move on to statements by members. The hon. member for Mississauga South.
Statements By Members
10:55 a.m.
Paul Szabo Mississauga South, ON
Mr. Speaker, seniors are among the most vulnerable in our society. They are often victims of abuse or fraud. Many require home care or long term care which may not be available or affordable. Most are on a fixed income, often without inflation protection. Many are in fear of losing their homes due to the depletion of their retirement savings, and many experience depression or despair. Despite that vulnerability, seniors deserve to live in dignity and with respect.
The National Advisory Council on Aging estimates that as many as 300,000 seniors who are entitled to old age security or the guaranteed income supplement do not receive these benefits because they have not applied for them. I therefore encourage all hon. members to include in their next householder an appeal to all their constituents to ensure that their families and friends who are entitled to these benefits are in fact receiving them.
As parliamentarians, we have the opportunity and the responsibility to help seniors who are among the most vulnerable in our society.
Statements By Members
11 a.m.
James Bezan Selkirk—Interlake, MB
Mr. Speaker, my riding of Selkirk—Interlake has had a very challenging year. We have had the threat of water contamination from Devils Lake. As well, spring flooding and the record precipitation levels have left fields flooded and created the worst crop year on record. The excess moisture also has created major damage along riverbanks and shorelines. All of this has caused concern and great hardship for many people in my riding.
The communities along Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba are now facing the threat of flooding from the high water levels on the lake due to fall storms and gusty winds. The residents of Selkirk—Interlake have responded to these challenges. With cooperation of property owners, residents and municipalities, we have been able to secure dikes and protect our communities.
I want to thank all who helped sandbag and build dikes. I also want to thank all the municipal officials for their hard work protecting our communities and establishing emergency plans to deal with this latest flood threat.
Terry Fox Run
Statements By Members
11 a.m.
Wayne Easter Malpeque, PE
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the more than 14,000 people who participated in the 25th anniversary Terry Fox Run between P.E.I. and New Brunswick, I want to express our appreciation to Strait Crossing Bridge Limited, the operators of the Confederation Bridge.
The Terry Fox Run is the result of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers who inspire the thousands to walk, run or wheel their way in assisting this worthy cause. We must also pay tribute to those in the business community as well.
Strait Crossing generously made available one of Canada's most impressive engineering structures for the 25th anniversary run. In doing so, it and numerous other commercial operators requiring the use of the bridge set aside profits for people and deserve our recognition and have earned our thanks. They made it possible, along with the Terry Fox family, to make the P.E.I.-New Brunswick run the single largest Terry Fox event held in Canada.
Our thanks.
Jean-Philippe Paiement and Anouk Charbonneau
Statements By Members
October 7th, 2005 / 11 a.m.
Johanne Deschamps Laurentides—Labelle, QC
Mr. Speaker, the future of Quebec rests on its youth and, in Laurentides—Labelle, I can certainly say that we have much to be proud of.
Last summer, Jean-Philippe Paiement, a 16-year old golfer from Mont-Laurier, was crowned juvenile champion and junior champion for Quebec. This proud representative of the Nominingue Golf Club has become a model of pride and determination for young Quebeckers.
Young women were not outdone, as their proud representative, Anouk Charbonneau, who is only 14 years old, from the Vallée de la Lièvre golf club in Beaux-Rivages, came first overall at the Quebec final at the Lachute MAXIgolf.
The Bloc Québécois wishes you every success in your present and future endeavours. May each victory and each upset be a rewarding experience for you.
Relief Aid International
Statements By Members
11 a.m.
Russ Powers Ancaster—Dundas—Flamborough—Westdale, ON
Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognize the efforts of the students and faculty of McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario for their hard work in creating a lasting response to the plight of the tsunami devastated people in the village of Kinniya, Sri Lanka.
Led by Professor Alison Miculan and Sri Lankan born Noor Nizam, the group has developed Relief Aid International, a voluntary NGO within the McMaster University community and the community of Hamilton at large, in response to last year's disaster. Almost $600,000 has been raised to date and contractors have started work on the project that will see the establishment of a vocational training centre, a manufacturing warehouse, a boat building facility and a school renovated and expanded to accommodate the village children.
I ask my fellow members to join me in congratulating the McMaster community on their tsunami relief efforts.


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Junior Zookeeper Camp
The Dakota Zoo Junior Zookeeper Camps are for children ages 8-12. Camps are designed to teach youngsters about animals and help to develop a caring attitude about nature. It provides a fun, hands-on experience, while giving an in-depth look at the many aspects of zookeeping. Campers work on projects to enrich the lives of zoo residents, go behind the scenes to help prepare diets and learn about animal health care, attend species-specific presentations done by our zookeepers, and much, much more! The various activities will leave participants with a well-rounded knowledge of animals, the role of zoos in wildlife conservation, and the daily duties of a zookeeper...along with plenty of fun, games, and activities to keep the interest level up. Cost is $65 per child for non-members and $60 for members for the five day camp. The two day afternoon camp takes place in the winter, and is $35 per child for non-members and $30 for members. Pre-registration is required at least 7 days before the date of the event, as these popular camps fill up quickly. On-line registration is generally available 30 days before the scheduled camp date. Contact our Education/Volunteer Coordinator at (701) 223-7543 ext. 3 or e-mail firstname.lastname@example.com to register or for more information. Be sure to check the Schedule of Events for the date and times.
Registration now open for:

subset: commoncrawl


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As members of the New Albany Symphony Orchestra began their first rehearsal for an upcoming concert, viola player Israelle Johnson — focused on the complex music in front of her — awaited her cue.
The 17-year-old and her fellow performers barreled through the contemporary Short Ride in a Fast Machine, a cacophonous romp by John Adams with staccato trumpets and unruly drums.
The piece might pose a challenge for any player, let alone one who is almost deaf.
Between takes, Johnson looked toward a nearby sign-language interpreter, Lisette Tedeschi, who sat translating the conductor's detailed directives on tempos and time signatures.
All parts worked in harmony.
Johnson, the only hard-of-hearing musician in the upcoming program, represents patrons whom the New Albany Symphony hopes to reach.
Next Sunday, she will join the 95-member orchestra in a concert for the deaf and hearing-impaired at the McCoy Community Center for the Arts.
"I was so intrigued by her story," said Heather Garner, who as executive director of the New Albany Symphony — and a viola player with the Columbus Symphony — learned last year about the Fairfield County teenager and invited her to join the group.
Garner, who funded the effort with a combined $50,000 in grants from the PNC Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts, designed the entire concert with the special audience in mind.
The show will feature selections heavy with chest-rattling percussion and low brass, creating enough volume to warrant precautions for the hearing musicians.
"It's very, very loud, depending on the piece," Garner said. "Many of us wear earplugs onstage."
Sensory-friendly features will be a central part of the concert.
Balloons, which transmit vibrations when held, will be made available. A laser-light display will keep time with some of the music. Galactic NASA images will accompany a rendition of The Planets, a seven-movement suite by Gustav Holst. And interpreters from the Deaf Services Center, in Worthington, will relay any dialogue from the stage.
For Johnson, who speaks slowly and reads lips but also signs, her role in the concert is hardly symbolic.
She is skilled.
"If a deaf person has music in their blood," she said, "I want to let that person know you can pick up an instrument."
An eager pupil
About the time that Israelle turned 3, Baltimore, Ohio, residents Patrick and Cherise Johnson discovered the root of their daughter's prolonged silence: enlarged vestibular aqueduct syndrome, a congenital condition.
Caused by fluid buildup in an oversize inner-ear channel, her hearing loss is 76 percent in the right ear and 64 percent in the left. Her hearing could one day worsen or be lost entirely, doctors have said, but there is no way to tell by how much or when.
"She's not upset about it," said Mrs. Johnson, 50, whose father suffers the same disorder to a lesser degree. "She said, 'God created me the way I am.' "
Nor has it quieted Israelle's love of music.
As a young child, she would watch her four older brothers sing along with Christmas carols playing on the car radio. The music was audible to her, but the lyrics were muddy.
Her mother bought a karaoke machine — a way for Israelle to absorb melody paired with the words of a song. The child also tinkered on a keyboard whose keys lit up when struck.
On a whim, Israelle at age 11 took up the violin.
"It just occurred to me," she said.
Her mother initially hesitated to ask Linda Stieg — a longtime Suzuki-trained strings educator — whether she would accept a pupil with special auditory needs.
It was uncharted territory for both teacher and student.
But Stieg, who has taught in central Ohio for 26 years, said Israelle "plays better than some of my hearing students. . . . She plays more in tune because she really is working to hear it correctly."
Even with hearing aids that boost her auditory levels to about 85 percent, Israelle ultimately found that a viola's lower frequencies make the instrument more suitable for her than the violin.
Like other Suzuki students, she learns melodies by ear; she first listens to CD recordings.
Another strategy is more innate: sensing the viola's tones through its vibrations.
The practice is similar to one once employed by another deaf musician: Ludwig van Beethoven allegedly took the legs off his piano to feel the music from the floor. (His Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat Major will be showcased next Sunday by the New Albany Symphony with guest pianist Jon Kimura Parker.)
"Beethoven heard music in his head," Israelle said. "If he can write music, I can play music."
A dedicated player
Proficiency demands patience and physical stamina.
Israelle, who often practices more than three hours a day, has put enough strain on her body that she had to have two neck cysts — caused by the instrument constantly pressed to her throat — removed last year.
A two-hour round-trip commute to attend a mainstreamed academic program for deaf students at Upper Arlington High School, where she plays in the school orchestra, doesn't sap her energy.
"You might do something 15 times; Israelle will do it 150 times," said Ed Zunic, an orchestra teacher in the Upper Arlington district.
"She understands her responsibility: If she's going to do this, she's going to do it well."
To prepare for the New Albany show, she follows a routine that also includes weekly lessons with a second Suzuki teacher, Susan Locke.
Eager to spread the word, Israelle has invited several hearing-impaired classmates to the concert. Entertainment options for such audiences can be few and far between.
John Moore, CEO and executive director of the Deaf Services Center, is distributing free concert tickets to the agency's clientele.
"Do not assume because one is deaf or has hearing loss that the person does not enjoy music," Moore said.
Garner, the New Albany symphony director, pointed out a 1924 letter that Helen Keller wrote after touching a radio-speaker diaphragm as a Beethoven selection played. Keller described the " tones and harmonies (that) conveyed to me moods of great beauty and majesty."
Israelle will spend half of each school day next year in a dental-assisting program as a junior at Fort Hayes Arts and Academic High School. And, she will continue her musical pursuits, both at Upper Arlington High and at home.
She would someday like to teach private lessons to other hearing-impaired pupils.
Her musical preferences, meanwhile, aren't restricted to the classical. She is also a fan of AC/DC and soon plans to tackle a different stringed instrument: electric guitar.
"You have to discover your own skill," Israelle said. "Don't let anything hold you back."


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At 24 months, 8% of kids who took L. reuteri had allergy-related eczema compared to 20% of those who took placebo.
Researchers also found that 14% of kids who took L. reuteri were sensitive to a skin-prick allergy test compared to 31% for placebo.
Infants with eczema have higher risk for allergic asthma and hay fever later in life. Doctors believe that probiotics are anti-inflammatory and improve the immune system in the gut.


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This forum needs an NFL thread - like the SEC thread for the college folks .
TBS - how about Manning & the Bronco's - Gotta love it when SD gets beat, they can't seem to do anything right .
This forum needs an NFL thread - like the SEC thread for the college folks .
TBS - how about Manning & the Bronco's - Gotta love it when SD gets beat, they can't seem to do anything right .
Marvin S
Everyone's friend is No One's friend
Someday your life will flash before your eyes. It's your responsibility to make sure it's worth watching!
Go Falcons!!!! Hope I'm not getting set up for another playoff flop.
Since I now live in Nebraska the Broncos may be my AFC team.
SEC thread? You mean the College Football thread where the dominent teams are from the SEC?
I really enjoyed last night's game because I haven't seen Peyton Manning having that much fun in a long while! He was grinning from ear to ear in the second half. Broncos were down by 24 at the half and won the game by 10! When he hangs up his cleats for the last time, he will be the greatest QB ever to have played the game! And, how 'bout that Ragin Cajun Brandon Stokley? What a catch!
Falcons? Matty Noodle has to do better than 2 points in the playoffs! ESPN has them ranked #1 this week. Does anyone really think they could beat the Giants, Packers, Saints or 49ers?
Last edited by Franco; 10-16-2012 at 02:37 PM.
Anti-intellectualism and fascism go together like bacon and eggs.
Franco I don't know if they are the dominant conference, I do know that the best Football Defense in Louisiana is in Baton Rouge!!! If the Saints had their defense their record might be flipped!!
As for my Cowboys I guess to put them in dog terms......they can crush the test and then break on the honor!!!!! Romo has to be more consistent the O-line is improving, who knows by the end of the year they might be a wild card team.......looking forward to the Thanksgiving game though
No Dome Patrol in Big D Regards,
AFC Iron Lines Sergeant Pepper "Pepper"
FC FTCH Westwood's Sunday Silence "Buck"
Sweet Swingin' Fred MH ***
I can't stand the Dirty Birds, and I can't stand to see them win by the skin of their teeth game after game after game.
Can't wait for it to catch up with them.
Manning got Hot last night and did what he does. Orchestrate!
Funny to watch the Center slap his hands away from him in an attempt to say GET BACK I'M SNAPPING THE BALL *PLAY CLOCK*! lol
It's on the NFL.com Denver Come back Highlight video.
Last edited by Franco; 10-16-2012 at 03:31 PM.
Anti-intellectualism and fascism go together like bacon and eggs.
I think the problem is with our coach not qb. The last minute da Boys looked like a 7th grade b team in clock management. How could Garrett only have one play called and have to settle for a career long field goal attempt with that much time left? An average offensive coordinator would be ashamed of that ending.
I have learned I need these dogs much more than they need me. Tim Bockmon
I can't disagree with you Tim. That time out they had left didn't do them a darn bit of good after the game was over.
I love dissin' the 'boys regards,
Howard Niemi
You really gotta be careful about how high a pedestal you put your method, your accomplishments, your dog on. There's usually someone who's done more, somewhere. And they may have used a different method than you did! Chris Atkinson 2013
get your dog out and TRAIN! caryalsobrook 2013


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Very true. Actually, it amazes me how I can get other things done that I need to do, while posting in this forum so much! By the way, I'll make ya a deal. When you reach Senior status, I'll tell you the story behind Shirley. It can be like "privileged" information for Senior Members only! (Ram1 says this as he hangs his head in embarrassment because he sounds like a 10 year old establishing club rules for tree-house members.)
You're on - I would shake on it, but my arms aren't long enough!
The difference between genius and insanity is merely the difference between success and failure.


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Bobby's Goulash
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 2 large yellow onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 3 cups water
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon House Seasoning, recipe follows
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- House Seasoning:
- 1 cup salt
- 1/4 cup pepper
- 1/4 cup garlic powder
- Mix the ingredients together and store in an air-tight container for up to 6 months. Use as a seasoning on meat and when cooking vegetables.
In a Dutch oven, saute the ground beef over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Break up the meat while sauteing. Spoon off any grease. Add the onions and garlic to the pot and saute until they are tender, about 5 minutes. Add 3 cups water, along with the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, soy sauce, House Seasoning, and seasoned salt. Stir well. Place a lid on the pot and allow this to cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Add the elbow macaroni, stir well, return the lid to the pot, and simmer for about 30 minutes. Turn off the heat, remove the bay leaves, and allow the mixture to sit about 30 minutes more before serving.
Serve with garlic bread and a salad.
Recipe courtesy of Paula Deen
CATEGORIES:View All
Pairs Well With
Jammy, earthy red wine
- Find easy pairings for your favorite recipes, Bobby's perfect picks and party ideas.
Cooking Tips
More Recipes and Ideas
Pork Goulash with Apple and Onion
Recipe courtesy of Rachael Ray
Beef Goulash with Blue Cheese
Recipe courtesy of Rachael Ray
Hungarian Beef Goulash
Recipe courtesy of Jamie Deen


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Jeanne Sharkey
NORWAY – Jeanne M. Sharkey, 103, of Norway, died Thursday, March 21, 2013, at Maryhill Manor in Niagara, Wis.
She was born in Norway on Feb. 2, 1910, daughter of the late Arthur and Lillian (Gendron) Marcell.
Jeanne married Bert Sharkey on Oct. 23, 1937, in Escanaba, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. He preceded her in death on Jan. 24, 1997.
After living several years in Escanaba, Bert and Jeanne moved to Norway and operated Caviani's Bar until they renovated Ver Muelen General Store on U.S. 2 and opened Bert's Bar from 1941 to 1978 when they sold it. The bar is now known as the Thirsty Whale.
Jeanne is survived by her nieces, Jeannette Masty of Norway, Helen Roach of Florence, Wis., Sylvia DuBois of Pewaukee, Wis., Charlene (Tom) McCarthy of Norway, Phyllis (Art) Goodwin of Arnold, Calif., Patricia (Don) Binns of Boulder, Colo.; nephews, Art (Mary Ann) Pancheri of Folsom, Calif., and Art Marcell of Green Bay, Wis.; sister-in-law, Lucille Marcell of Norway; and many grand and great-grand nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her three brothers, Edward, Arthur and Philip Marcell; two sisters, Cecelia Pancheri and Alice Rapin; and two nieces, Carol Sue Bilski and Sharon Haack.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 26, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Norway.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, at 11 a.m. at the church, with Fr. Timothy Ekaitis officiating.
Interment will follow at the Norway Township Cemetery.
Condolences to the family of Jeanne may be expressed online at www.ortmanfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements announced by the Ortman Funeral Home in Norway.


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As you may know we now have the services of a fantastic lighting technician, Brian.
He's had a look at what we have at Argyle House and has recommended that we need some scaffolding to set up a rig to mount the lights on.
In order to save on the pennies, does anyone have scaffolding/know where we can get it cheap, have contacts. We are trying to get lighting set up for the next Big Night Out, 20th July, so please get back to us soon


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Skip to comments.Deputies: Dad tattoos "Daddy's Girl" on 14-year-old daughter (SC)
Posted on 02/08/2013 2:23:33 PM PST by ilovesarah2012
RICHLAND COUNTY, SC (WIS) A Richland County man is accused of tattooing "Daddy's Girl" on his daughter, according to
Deputies arrested 39-year-old Victor Shane Scroggins Thursday morning. He is charged with tattoo of a minor, unlawful neglect of a child and not having a required certificate. After turning himself in Thursday morning, Scroggins was taken to the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.
Scroggins is accused of tattooing "Daddy's Girl" and a Browning logo in his 14-year-old daughter's wrist at their home in October.
(Excerpt) Read more at wyff4.com ...
Florida escapee?
What do you think is going to happen when you name your boy Shane?
Seems kinda sick to me. Did the daughter want the tattoo? Weird.
It would seem rather odd to me that a 14 year old girl would want "Daddy's Girl" tattooed on her anywhere.
I'm betting there are other issues in that home.
I'm sure she end up with a nice guy who'll respect her.
Even if the girl begged for the tattoo, 14 is too young for her to be making such decisions. Obvioulsy the Dad is too immature to be making decisions like that either.
That ain't nothing compared to what her brother got.
Wrist is bad, but it could have been worse. That would be a bad pair of tramps stamps to grow old with.
They said he was 'unqualified' to do tattooes?
Well that is a waste of a good prison sentence, when the only trade he learned was tattooing.
They will probably make a bigger deal of the Browning Logo.
Browning logo? gun logo?
The hillbillies have migrated.
Much like a rancher branding one of his calfs.
at least it wasn't the face
I thought the same thing. Without knowing for sure, I won't say.
You might be a redneck if you spend more money on tattooing than dentistry.
Vic Scroggins, Free Lance Tattoo Artist. Got a nice ring to it.
You won't believe this one:
OK... you probably will....
Bad idea, Dad, but just think. If she was in NYC, she could get the morning after pill or an abotion WITHOUT her Dad's permission.
South Carolina Ping
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There's a lot of media-driven peer pressure out there for kids to have tattoos and I bet this girl was begging her father for the tat for a long time. I experienced the same pressure but managed to not get a tattoo at all. I can't think of any of my old friends who didn't get inked somewhere.
If she were in NYC she'd be given condoms, a map to the local abortion clinic and told to sleep around when she is 11.
I told our daughter "One tramp stamp, and we will not be spending one dollar of our money on YOUR college education" which ended the conversation.
"Im betting there are other issues in that home."
I'm going with plain stupid for now. I'd be more suspicious if the "Daddy's Girl" tat was on her butt or something.
I know someone who let his 9 year old daughter get her ears pierced. I was shocked by it but no one else seemed to have a problem with it. I don't think kids should get any permanent marks until they are 18.
Another good rule: If you are old enough for sex you are old enough to move out and house and feed yourself. (and pay for your own college)
If all parents did that a lot of society's problems would vanish.
I didnt get my ears pierced until I was 22.
However I have used ear piercing and lunch out as a celebration and goal for a young daughter's first menses.
If they had been in a different city I'd wonder if she was one of these kids....
at our house it is that you are not old enough for sex until you can afford to fund the place to have it in. preferably after marriage.
You might be a redneck if . . .
Foxworthy's new material just writes itself in the news.
"I go steady, and I French Kiss"
"So what, everyone does that"
"Yeah, but my dad says I'm the best at it."
good rule
That part had me a bit worried about what would follow, but I love a happy ending.
I think it's a cultural thing. Many Mexicans and Central American live in my neighborhood and a lot of their infant girls have pierced ears.
Also pierced ears aren't permanent. Take out the rings and they grow shut.
pierced ears??
Yeah... that is exactly the same.. lol... //sarcasm
Didn't seem to hurt so I had no problems and the ear long ago healed..
I was responding to a post about being shocked about a 9 year old having her ears pierced. My point was that I see babies with their ears pierced all the time.
I know you were responding to someone else, I guess I was too lazy to type in their handle too.
You'd be amazed how many parents pierce their infant daughter's ears.
My 8, 10 and 11 yo grandaughters have their ears pierced, so what. One whose mother is Korean had them pierced at 2 yo, a cultural thing. If they don't keep the earings in then the holes close up and you wouldn't know they were ever there. They are cute with the very small studs in them and anyone who would give them grief over them would find severe consequences from me or their fathers.
I've only heard one or two comments about my USMC emblem, mine and my wife's name and 1972 tattoo, from the year we were married (both marines). That was from a fellow AF officer who couldn't believe that an officer would have a tattoo. One woman who adversely commented on my wife's small tattoo with a heart and my name promptly retreated when told to stick her head back up her arse and mind her own business.
What we both put on our shoulders is our business, it has not caused us any problem in the 40 years we've been married or in our careers.
Opinions are like sphincters, everyone has one and they are best kept to themselves.
I am surprised how many Koreans DON'T pierce their ears
Wrong end.
#1, worst of all: nose or tongue piercings
#2, any other piercing other than ears or tongue.
#3, tattoos anywhere
#4, pierced ears.
Tattoos can be #1 if they are obnoxious enough, but it's hard to beat a pierced nose or tongue on the digust level.
I suggest child protective services quiz this girl about sexual abuse.
That is vile.
When my first daughter was born I wanted to get her ears pierced. My husband said absolutely not, wait until she is old enough to decide if she wants her ears pierced. She got them pierced when she turned 18. Looking back, I guess I agree with him.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.


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I am letting everyone know that this weekend Inferno Paintball Field will be opening up for this season this weekend. We are in the process of redoing the woodsball field with all new bunkers and we will be getting a new airball field as soon as possible. The deal for this weekend will be 12.50 field fees and 12.50 rentals. The field is going to open the year off as bring your own paint to see how it goes, If anyone has any suggestions let me know. The field hours will be 12:00 till dusk on sat and sun both. I hope to see everyone there and we will see you on the field.
1 reply to this topic
Posted 12 April 2010 - 07:22 PM
Posted 02 April 2011 - 02:22 AM
Can't really find any good photo's of your field can we get some posted? Also what is your player base like? Tourny guys, recballers? And what is your staff's experience level?
www.livestream.com/skevic: The only place to watch the Vicious series live.
1 user(s) are reading this topic
0 members, 1 guests, 0 anonymous users


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Education Secretary Arne Duncan invited 4,000 department employees to attend the Rev. Al Sharpton's "Reclaim the Dream" rally, organized to counter Glenn Beck's and Sarah Palin's "Restoring Honor" rally at the Lincoln Memorial, reports the Washington Examiner.
Although the e-mail does not violate the Hatch Act, which forbids federal employees from participating in political campaigns, Education Department workers should feel uneasy, said David Boaz, executive vice president of the libertarian Cato Institute.
"It sends a signal that activity on behalf of one side of a political debate is expected within a department. It's highly inappropriate … even in the absence of a direct threat," Boaz said. "If we think of a Bush cabinet official sending an e-mail to civil servants asking them to attend a Glenn Beck rally, there would be a lot of outrage over that."
Brookings Institution director Russ Whitehurst, a Department of Education program director from 2001 to 2008, said, "Only political appointees would have been made aware of such an event and encouraged to attend."
Sharpton's event, held on the 47th anniversary of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, featured praise of President Obama and jabs at the Tea Party, the Examiner reports.
"[Conservatives] think we showed up [to vote for Barack Obama] in 2008 and that we won't show up again. But we know how to sucker-punch, and we're coming out again in 2010," Sharpton said.
In his remarks, Duncan called education "the civil rights issue of our generation."
Education Department spokeswoman Sandra Abrevaya defended Duncan's decision to speak at the rally and ask department employees to attend. "This was a back-to-school event," she said.
President Obama will give his second annual Back to School speech on Tuesday, Sept. 14. It will be available for broadcast in schools and online. Last year's speech raised a lot of fuss, culminating in a big fizzle as Obama told students to work hard in school.


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Kollar leads nine local winners at Monster Energy Supercross
CAROGA LAKE – Fort Plain's Zachery Kollar claimed victories in two divisions to lead a list of nine local winners on the final points night at Monster Energy Drink Supercross competition Wednesday at Royal Mountain Ski Center.
Kollar topped the field in the 122-250 Amateur and 122-Open Amateur divisions.
Mayfield's Jordan Miller took top honors in the Mini Quad 51-90cc production class, while Johnstown's Casey Battisti rode to victory in the 85cc 12- to 15-year-old division. Battisti also placed second in the Open Mini 10- to 16-year-old class.
Fonda's Tyler Blowers topped the podium in the Mini 80cc 9- to 11-year-old division and placed third in the Open Mini 10- to 16-year-old class.
Daniel Ashcroft o Northville claimed victory in the 122-250 Novice division, while Brandon Handy topped the field in the Mini 60cc 7- to 11-year-old division and placed second in the Jr. Mini 9- to 11-year-old class.
Amsterdam's Geoffrey Hoyt was first in the Quad Schoolboy 12- to 16-year-old division.
Katharine Hoyt of Amsterdam topped a list of local riders who swept the top five spots in the Quad Novice division. Aaron Crouse (Fort Plain), Mike Deuel (Broadalbin), Josh Deuel (Broadalbin) and Logan Beck (Fort Plain), respectively, followed Hoyt in the finish.
Gloversville's John Berthiaume Jr. rounds out the local winners with his victory in the Plus 30 Expert division.
Also claiming victories Wednesday night were Scotia's Eric Junquera (Quad Am), Cobleskill's Ryan Daly (Open Mini 10-16), Davey Sterritt of Athens (122-Open Expert), Catskill's Nicholas Schindler (122-Open Novice), Kenneth Deridder of Middle Grove (Jr. Mini 9-11), Queensbury's Charlie Vrooman (Plus 30 Am), Whitesboro's Mitch Dougherty (122-250 Expert), James O'Neil of East Berne (50cc PeeWee Junior 4-6), Scotia's Chad Forstell (50cc PeeWee Senior 7-8).
Other local riders turning in strong performances were Gloversville's Ronnie Christman (second, 50cc PeeWee Sr. 7-8), Johnstown's Bennett Melita (third, 50cc PeeWee Sr. 7-8), Johnstown's Jason Morrison Jr. (third, Mini Quad 51-90cc Production), Gloversville's Schuyler Smith (fourth, 85cc 12-15), Johnstown's Adryan Pelosi (third, 122-Open Am), Amsterdam's Brandon Dumblewski (fourth, 122-Open Am), Caroga Lake's Jack Mulyca (fifth, 122-open Novice), Johnstown's Jesse Pechtel (fifth, Jr. Mini 9-11), Amsterdam's Jeremy Tittemore (second, Plus 30 Am) and Gloversville's Keith Orr (fourth, Plus 30 Am).
In the Quad Amateur division, Fred Hansen, Colby Watras and Jesse Angel, all from Broadalbin, placed third, fourth and fifth, respectively.
Monster Supercross results
Aug. 21, 2013
50cc PeeWee Jr. (4-6): 1. James O'Neil (E. Berne).
50cc PeeWee Sr. (7-8): 1. Chad Forstell (Scotia), 2. Ronnie Christman (Gloversville), 3. Bennett Melita (Johnstown), 4. Trevor Stempel (S. Berne).
Mini Quad 51-90cc production: 1. Jordan Miller (Mayfield), 2. Dalton Nichols (Caroga Lake), 3. Jason Morrison Jr. (Johnstown), 4. Mason St. John-Lemery (Queensbury).
85cc (12-15): 1. Casey Battisti (Johnstown), 2. Reid Schindler (Catskill), 3. Nicholas Debernardis (Frankfort), 4. Schuyler Smith (Gloversville), 5. Megan Alikonis (Amsterdam).
Mini 80cc (9-11): 1. Tyler Blowers (Fonda), 2. Kenneth Deridder (Middle Grove), 3. Scott Hughes (Edmeston).
122-250 Expert: 1. Mitch Dougherty (Whitesboro), 2. Joe Vitetta (E. Berna), 3. Brian Falzo (Johnsonville), 4. Sal Colangelo (Poughkeepsie), 5. Davey Sterritt (Athens).
122-250 Am: 1. Zachery Kollar (Fort Plain), 2. Michael Witson (Wappinger Falls), 3. Jacob Church (Greenville), 4. Ryan Rivette (Schenectady), 5. Derek Bornt (Poestenkill).
122-250 Novice: 1. Daniel Ashcroft (Northville), 2. Nicholas Schindler (Catskill), 3. Nick Huber (Catskill), 4. Kyle Brandow (Catskill), 5. Ryan Daly (Cobleskill).
Mini 60c (7-11): 1. Brandon Handy (Johnstown), 2. Kenneth Deridder (Middle Grove), 3. Chad Forstell (Scotia), 4. Jacob Slabe Mohawk), 5. Cole Vrooman (Queensbury).
Quad Am: 1. Eric Junquera (Scotia), 2. Zach Desimone (Moriah), 3. Fred Hansen (Broadalbin), 4. Colby Watras (Broadalbin), 5. Jesse Angel (Broadalbin).
Quad Novice: 1. Katharine Hoyt (Amsterdam), 2. Aaron Crouse (Fort Plain), 3. Mike Deuel (Broadalbin), 4. Josh Deuel (Broadalbin), 5. Logan Beck (Fort Plain).
Quad Schoolboy (12-16): 1. Geoffrey Hoyt (Amsterdam).
Open Mini (10-16): 1. Ryan Daly (Cobleskill), 2. Casey Battisti (Johnstown), 3. Tyler Blowers (Fonda), 4. Cole Hulbert (Medusa), 5. Nicholas Debernardis (Frankfort).
122-Open Expert: 1. Davey Sterritt (Athens), 2. Sam Schilde (Sharon Springs), 3. Kevin carcella (Ravena), 4. Cody Locci (E. Berne), 5. Kris St. Gelais (Schaghticoke).
122-Open Am: 1. Zackery Kollar (Fort Plain), 2. Frank Hempstead III (Westerlo), 3. Adryan Pelosi (Johnstown), 4. Brandon Dumblewski (Amsterdam), 5. Michael Witson (Wappinger Falls).
122-Open Novice: 1. Nicholas Schindler (Catskill), 2. Ryan Daly (Cobleskill), 3. Kyle Brandow (Catskill), 4. Dalen Vernazza (Stamford, CT), 5. Jack Mulyca (Caroga Lake).
Jr. Mini (9-11): 1. Kenneth Deridder (Middle Grove), 2. Brandon Handy (Johnstown), 3. Jacob Slabe (Mohawk), 4. Scott Hughes (Edmeston), 5. Jesse Pechtel (Johnstown).
Plus 30 Am: 1. Charlie Vrooman (Queensbury), 2. Jeremy Tittemore (Amsterdam), 3. Ernie Weir (Argyle), 4. Keith Orr (Gloversville), 5. Jake Kiefner (Rotterdam).
Plus 30 Expert: 1. John Berthiaume Jr. (Gloversville), 2. Matt Dwyer (Esperance), 3. Edward Nadeau (Saratoga Springs).


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"Je suis nul!" ("I'm useless!") is a common expression for French students, writes Ben Wildavsky, who wonders on Chronicle of Higher Education if France's schools are sapping students' confidence.
Now comes a new book by Peter Gumbel, a British expat who teaches at Sciences Po, France's elite Institute of Political Studies, lambasting the French education system for humiliating children, neglecting teamwork, character-building, and positive reinforcement, and fostering pervasive low self-confidence. In an excerpt of On achève bien les écoliers (They Shoot Schoolchildren, Don't They?), published in Sunday's Observer, Gumbel writes that when he moved to Paris and enrolled his two daughters in school, the rigor he had expected was accompanied by a worrisome downside:
There were obvious symptoms: tummy aches and other signs of stress, an unhealthy phobia about making mistakes and flashes of self-doubt. "I'm hopeless at maths," my eldest daughter declared one day. "No, you're not, you just need to work at it harder," was my reply. "No, daddy, you don't understand anything. I'm hopeless."
Gumbel's Sciences Po students have passed exceptionally difficult admissions exams. They're very bright, but have no self-confidence, Gumbel writes.
Getting them to participate in classroom discussions was like pulling teeth. Exam time was trauma time: every year, several burst into tears during the oral.
In The Great Brain Race, Wildavsky extols "the potential of meritocratic college admissions standards around the world to allow young people to get ahead based on what they know rather than who they are (whether family background or nationality)."
But high scholastic standards and an exam-based path to upward mobility won't help France if the K-12 system turns the brightest students into anxious, timid crybabies, Wildavsky writes.
It makes American over-confidence look not so bad.


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City Officials Not OK With Proposed Hotel PILOT
ELLICOTT – City of Jamestown officials are not in favor of a potentially unprecedented PILOT agreement for the proposed new hotel at Exit 12 on Interstate 86.
On Tuesday, a public hearing on the proposed hotel project was held at the Ellicott Town Administration Building, with three people speaking during the public hearing. The new hotel project is being proposed by Boxwood Hotel LLC. The company also owns the Hampton Inn located at Exit 12 and the Best Western along West Third Street in Jamestown. A Holiday Inn Express is the proposed new hotel.
The first person to speak was Robert Kenyon, Jamestown economic development coordinator, who read a letter addressed to Michael Metzger, county Industrial Development Agency board chairman, from Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi; Greg Rabb, Jamestown City Council president; and Vince DeJoy, Jamestown development director. The letter stated city officials are not oppose to private development at the exit and they have advocated for enhanced street lighting for the area. However, city officials are against the potential "unprecedented" 15-year property tax abatement plan for the hotel development.
"We also believe that a public taxpayer subsidy will be unfair to like businesses at the interchange, as well as other lodging properties throughout the Greater Jamestown region and southern Chautauqua County, that do not currently and never have received such assistance," the letter stated. "Furthermore, the city contends that a reasonable case has not been made by the developers that a property tax PILOT is absolutely necessary for this project to go forward. Representatives of Boxwood Hotel LLC should be asked if they will be forced to cancel the project if the proposed level of public taxpayer subsidy is not approved."
The letter continues to say that only new or expanding industries resulting in significant job creation or increase in taxable assessed valuation; those bringing in export value that generates new money for county municipalities; and businesses offering new products or services not provided currently should be given fruitful tax abatement incentives.
Another speaker during the hearing was Cecil Miller III, Ellicott town supervisor, who spoke in favor of the project. Miller and the Ellicott Town Board have written a letter supporting an IDA PILOT program for the project. Miller said this development could lead to more development for Exit 12. Also, he said the developers for Boxwood Hotel had many spots to select from on I-86, and Ellicott officials are pleased they have selected the Route 60 exit.
"This is a prime location for retail development," he said. "We are thrilled they chose the town of Ellicott."
One local resident spoke during the public hearing. Gene Aversa, who lives in the area of the possible hotel development, said with an additional hotel there will be more concern for public safety. He said a traffic study should be done to see if a traffic light would need to be installed to enhance vehicle safety in the area.
A decision by the IDA Board on the PILOT agreement should be made during its next meeting, which is scheduled for 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17.


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Many Menorahs
Barneys New York teamed up with the Food Network, the Cooking Channel, and Illy to deck their Madison Avenue windows in a "Have a Foodie Holiday!" theme. A papier-mâché Mario Batali head sits on a platter, while a mannequin wearing a dress made of foil coffee bags and disposable cups sports an Illy espresso machine as a headdress. Simon Doonan and his madcap team have created a campy homage to the well-known foodies of today.
David Hoey and the Bergdorf Goodman visual department must have a case of wanderlust. This year's Bergdorf windows feature five fairy tale–worthy locations and magical modes of transportation including a winged Pegasus and a bright-red caboose.
The ELLE DECOR Wish List


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Greenwood Park Mall is the shopping destination on the southside of Indianapolis, serving the nearby communities of Greenwood, Whiteland, Franklin and Center Grove. The mall offers both indoor and outdoor shops that specialize in women's and children's apparel, accessories and more. Among the 150 plus stores, Greenwood Park Mall provides a diverse shopping experience featuring Von Maur, Macy's, jcpenney, Forever 21 and The Buckle. We also have many exciting dining options that include The Cheescake Factory, BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse and more. Conveniently located at the intersection of US 31 North and County Line Road, Greenwood Park Mall is easily accessible from wherever you call home. From the entire team at Greenwood Park Mall, we hope that you will visit us soon!FEATURED STORES
White House Black Market, Jared The Galleria of Jewelry, Chico's, Barnes & Noble, Jos. A. Bank, Shi by Journeys, BJ's Restaurant Brewery, Cheesecake Factory, The, Forever 21
Greenwood Park Mall is located at the South East intersection of US 31 and County Line Road.

 From Indianapolis, Take 465 to US 31 South. Head South on US 31 for 5 miles and the Mall with be on your Left at the County Line Road intersection.

Accessible Entrance
All of our entrances are wheel chair accessible.

Accessible Parking
Handicapped accessible parking is available.
AED (Automatic External Defibrillator)
We have three AED units on property and one unit in our outdoor security vehicle.
In the case of an emergency, Guest Services is able to make announcements to our shoppers.
There is one Travelex ATM machine located within the mall near the Food Court Entrance.
Baby Changing Station
All of our restrooms are equipped with changing stations.
Bike Racks
Bike racks are located at Entrance 1, Entrance 2, & Entrance 4.
Bus Stop
The 31 Bus Stop is located on the North side of the parking lot near Jared The Galleria of Jewelry.
Children's Play Area
Take a shopping break with the kids in the Children's Play Area, located near Lenscrafters. It's the perfect place to rest and relax while the children climb on one-of-a-kind sculptures or play in the Kidgits Klubhouse.

 Please note, food and beverages are not permitted in the play area. Children must be accompanied by an adult. See Rules at play area entry.

Greenwood Park Mall has a bell tower above Chico's

Coca-Cola Vending
Coca - Cola vending is available throughout the mall at our entrances and various locations
Directories (Mall Map)
Handheld mall directories can be found attached to the backlit mall directories at Entrance 1, Entrance 4, Center Court, Macy's Court, & near the Play Area.
Drinking Fountain
Drinking fountains are located near the restrooms down the JCPenney Wing & near the restrooms in the Food Court.
Easter Bunny
The Easter Bunny is located in the Von Maur/JCPenney Court from March 4th - March 26th. Photo packages are available for purchase.
The Greenwood Park Mall Hubler Zone as well as the Franciscan Health Rejuvenation Station both provide TV's for your entertainment.
EV (Electric Vehicle) Charging Stations
EV charging station, electric recharging point, charging point and EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) are an important part of supporting plug-in electric vehicles, including all-electric cars, neighborhood electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. These stations are located near Entrance 2 & near Entrance 3.
Family Restrooms
There are family restrooms located near the JCPenney Home Store near Entrance 3.
Fax & Copies
Fax & Copy services are available for a small charge at the mall office which is open Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm.
Fire Pit
The Greenwood Park Mall fire pit is located outside between Cheesecake Factory and Kumo Japanese Steakhouse
Food Court
The Food Court is located at Entrance 4 and offers a variety of restaurants, including Subway, Asian Chao, Chick-fil-a, Blondies Cookies, & more!
The outdoor fountain is near Entrance 3 and has several stone benches for shoppers to rest and enjoy the view.
Handicapped Accessible Restrooms
All of Greenwood Park Mall's restrooms are handicapped accessible.
Lost and Found
Have you misplaced an item in the mall? Visit Guest Services to see if your item has been found.
A drop off envelope mailbox is located through the service doors between Von Maur & Old Navy.
Mall Walking
Greenwood Park Mall is open for mall walking Monday - Saturday at 8:00am and at 9:00am on Sundays.

Management Office
The mall office is located near The Children's Place & is open Monday - Friday from 8:30am - 5:00 pm.
Mobile Device Charging Stations
You can charge your phone while you are shopping. Conveniently located Device Charging Stations allow visitors to charge their phones, tablets, and other communication devices while enjoying the mall. The Charging Station features comfortable seating - and is the perfect spot to rest and recharge!
Mobile Shopper Club™

The Mobile Shopper Club is a club for our shoppers who want to receive retailer deals and event news sent right to their phone in the form of text message. There is no cost to join, but standard data and message rates do apply. Join by texting GREENWOODPARKMALL to 74666.

Nursing Mothers Lounge
Located in the Food Court near the restrooms. This private lounge features cozy décor with a rocking chair & a changing station.
Greenwood Park Mall offers ample, free parking for our customers. Handicapped parking is also available near all major mall entrances.
Parking For Expectant Moms Or Families With Young Children
Located near Entrance 1 and Entrance 3.
Restrooms are located in the Food Court, near The Children's Place, & near the JCPenney Home store.
Retailer Gift Cards
Several retailer gift cards are available to purchase at the Simon Guest Services center. ITunes, Cheesecake Factory, Best Buy, Shell Gas, Outback, Olive Garden, & many other cards are available.
During the holiday season, Santa is located in the Von Maur event court.

Scooter Rental
Electric scooters are available for rental at the Guest Services Booth. They are free of charge to rent. Simply leave a Driver's License at the booth.
Security & Police Substation
The Greenwood Park Mall security office is located in front of JC Penney Home Store
Shopping Bags
Shopping bags are available at the Simon Guest Service Center for $1.00 each with proceeds benefiting Simon Youth Foundation.

Simon Giftcard®
Give the gift of shopping with a Simon Giftcard, available at Simon Guest Services® in denominations ranging from $20 to $500. There are no fees after purchase and the funds do not expire. The Simon Giftcard can be used anywhere Visa or American Express are accepted. See cardholder agreement for complete terms and conditions.
Simon Guest Services
Our Guest Services staff is available to help make your shopping experience easy and enjoyable.
Simon Kidgits Club
The Simon Kidgits® Club is here! Sign your child up for free today either online at www.simon.com/kidgits or in-center at the Simon Guest Services booth. Simon Kidgits Club members receive access to exclusive events, in-center prizes, store discounts, and fun birthday emails. So join the club, and join the fun now.
Simon Mobile App
The Simon Mobile App can help you find your favorite stores, dining and entertainment options at the Simon shopping center nearest you. You'll also be able to check out the latest deals, news and events available at your favorite center right from your smartphone or tablet. And there are many more features designed to enhance your shopping experience including mall maps, gift card balance check and more. Download the free app from your favorite app store.
Soft Seating
Tired from shopping? Take a break in one of our many soft seating locations throughout the mall.
All Simon Malls, Mills and Premium Outlets in the U.S. have achieved the national 'StormReady' designation by the National Weather Service. This designation recognizes Simon centers' preparedness to handle all types of severe and potentially life-threatening weather situations.
For your shopping convenience, stroller rental is available at :
 Entrance #1 - Applebee's
 Food Court
 Entrance #2 - TGI Friday's

 All stroller rentals are $5 each with a $.50 refund on returned strollers.
SYF Coin Wishing Wells

The SYF Coin Wishing Wells bring in funds for Simon Youth Foundation (SYF) programs. The SYF helps provide economical, educational and career development opportunities to local youth. All of the proceeds collected from the SYF Coin Wishing Well go to the Simon Youth Foundation.

Tornado Shelter
The Tornado Shelters are located down every service corridor
Train Ride
Stop by and take a ride on the Nano Solutions Trackless Train. Located inside entrance 3 by the play area
There are several snack, candy, & Coca Cola vending machines located throughout the mall. Located at Entrance 1, Entrance 2, Entrance 3, near the security office/JCPenney Home Store, near Sears, and in the Food Court.
Wheelchairs (Complimentary)
Wheelchairs are available for use and are free of charge. To obtain a wheelchair, simply leave your drivers license at Guest Services in Center Court.
Wireless (Wi-Fi) Internet
We offer free wireless internet to our shoppers at this Simon mall. Any shopper with a Wi-Fi enabled laptop, tablet or smartphone can easily log onto the Wi-Fi network. All shoppers have to do is open their web browser or select "Simon WiFi" (the SSID name) from their available list of wireless networks to get to the Simon Malls Wi-Fi landing page. All shoppers that choose to use the Wi-Fi network at this mall must agree to Simon Wi-Fi Terms & Conditions of Use prior to using this free service.
Then Get Our Can't Miss Style Reports, Retailer
Offers and Event News Before Everyone Else.


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May 7, 2012 – Cubs Lineup vs. Braves
Jeff Samardzija takes the hill looking to keep the Cubs rolling against Tommy Hanson and the Atlanta Braves. Geovany Soto is back behind the plate after a day off yesterday. Reed Johnson gets a start in LF for Alfonso Soriano. No Adrian Cardenas yet, as Darwin Barney gets the start at 2B. Go Cubs!
– George


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My experience taking biologics for Crohn's disease
There has been a lot of progress in the area of anti-TNF drugs which are usually referred to as "biologics." In this blog post I will give you all the information that I have on each of the drugs, as well as, my experiences with the ones that I have taken. Keep in mind that I am a mechanical engineer and not a doctor. I also want to emphasize that these are my personal experiences with these medications. Every person reacts to medication differently and you should always be in constant contact with your doctor before, during and after taking biologics for Crohn's disease.
A brief background: The anti-TNF drugs target a substance in the blood called the Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-alpha which is a cytokine (specialized protein that promotes inflammation in the intestine or other organs and tissues). The overproduction of the TNF-alpha has been linked to several inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis. The anti-TNF drugs block the TNF-alpha activity by binding it to cell membranes and blood cells.
All of the anti-TNF drugs increase the risk of infection and should not be taken when you have an active infection. Also, make sure your doctor tests you for tuberculosis before starting you on any of these medications. There are also some risks of these medications causing lymphoma.
My reaction to Remicade [infliximab]:
Remicade was the second TNF inhibitor to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in (FDA) 1999. Enbrel was the first anti-TNF drug and was approved in 1998 for use to combat Rheumatoid arthritis. It is supposedly very good for fistulating Crohn's. At that time my fistula wasn't external (although at that time I didn't really know what a fistula was but they said that I had one so it must have been there.
Remicade is an anti-TNF drug that is made from mouse and human proteins to create a chimeric monoclonal antibodies which can locate and bind to specific substances in the body. It is given through an IV and usually takes about four hours. For me it always took longer because I was allergic to the medication. Actually, I think that I was allergic to the mouse proteins. I started this drug when it was still new for Crohn's patients. At the facility that I received the medication, they told me that they have never seen a reaction like mine before. My hands and feet got really red and itchy and burned, and my face would start to swell and got very red. I would start to have breathing problems and often would have to stop the treatment and take my inhaler. They would give me some Benadryl via the IV before and in the middle of the treatment and they put the drip rate of the medication on the slowest rate possible. My husband was so nice and would accompany me for the treatment because they wanted someone with you when you were there.
I didn't really see any big noticeable effects. Maybe it staved off a Crohn's flare for a while but it is hard to say. I would take a dose and then 12 weeks later take the second dose and then take the last dose of that round after eight more weeks. I think now you can get an infusion every few weeks. I would make it through the first dose relatively okay – with all the mitigation steps – but I would become so allergic to the drug by the third dose that I wouldn't have been able to have anymore doses even if they had let me. The last time I had an infusion, they almost called it quits because I was having a lot of breathing problems.
When I lived in Holland the medical staff was very hesitant to give me Remicade due to my reactions I just described. And while living in France they put me on Humira which was before it was approved for Crohn's in the US.
My reaction to Humira [adalimumab]:
Humira is also a TNF inhibitor but it is made of only human proteins to create the monoclonal antibodies. This is much better for those of us who are allergic to the mouse proteins. The other benefit of this drug is that it can be given by using a pen type dispenser and takes about five minutes versus the four hours for Remicade.
I took this drug for about a year and a half and did not see much improvement in my Crohn's disease. They also switched my Imuran to Methotrexate (a drug that is used for chemotherapy). They stopped both the Methotrextate and the Humira because I started to have some numbness in my hand and foot and these strange fainting like symptoms. It felt like walking through thick fog. It was so strange. I also had some chest pain. Today they still are not sure what the cause of those things were. The tingles have gone away for the most part and occur a lot less frequently.
One extremely rare side effect of the anti-TNF drugs is that it can cause the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). They ran a lot of tests on me and determined that I did not have MS and my brain looked fine. None of my doctors have agreed on the cause – some think that it was the Humira and some believe that it was the Methotrexate. One of my doctors in France told me that if you have neurological problems with one Anti-TNF drug, you should not take any more of this type of medication. My current doctor wants to try the Humira again if I have a relapse. I haven't made up my mind about this and hope that I stay healthy so that I won't have to make that decision.
Cimzia [certolizumab pegol]:
Cimzia is the first and only PEGylated anti-TNF-alpha. The antibody portion combines with a special chemical called polyethelyene glycol (PEG), which delays its excretion from the body. It is similar to Humira and Remicade – just different chemicals. Dr. Z wrote a nice blog post with a lot of information on this drug. I have not taken this drug yet so do not have any personal insight to share with you.
Tysabri [natalizumab]:
Tysabri is the most recently approved anti-TNF drug for adults with moderate to severe Crohn's disease. It is a humanized monoclonal antibody against the alpha-4 (?4) integrin (integrin are cell surface receptors that play a role in the way the cells attach to each other) and the first drug developed in the class of selective adhesion molecule inhibitors. From what I understand Tysabri's mechanism of action is to inhibit these immune cells from crossing blood vessel walls to reach affected organs.
This drug is one that I am more fearful of because of one of the rare side effects called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). PML is caused by the reactivation of a common virus in the central nervous system of immune-compromised individuals and can be fatal within six months. This is the reason that I will stay away from this medication. I have already had problems with the other anti-TNF therapies that I am sure that I would be one of the 'lucky' ones who would present with this rare side effect. I always get the rare problems so I am not going to push my luck. The risk of getting PML is higher if you take this medication in combination with an immunosuppressant. I think that the doctors force you to stop the Imuran or 6MP treatments before beginning the Tysabri treatments. The FDA reviewers in the past have estimated the risk of developing PML is 1 in 1,000 over 18 months of Tysabri use but my advice would be to take caution as the calculation could change after more experience with the drug.
Check out the following link for information on the future of biologics and Crohn's disease here on Everyday Health. Another great source of information is the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA).
Hope this was helpful.
Take care,


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Half-up straight hairstyle for African American women
The upper section of long black hair is done up, while the rest are allowed to fall down the back. The straightened African-American hair is not really pin-straight, which is suitable for this style. A half-pony is gathered at the back of the head. A section at the crown has been worked into a pouf, by backcombing or teasing hair, then smoothing it back down into a bump and securing with pins. The height produced can then be set with hairspray. This gives an elegant aspect to the look, while the tail is really just to showcase the beauty of long, vibrantly black hair.


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Washington, DCUSA
May 22, 2012
No introduction yet
Help support your Meetup
Whether you're new to the D.C. area or a native, if you are interested in discovering local indie artists/bands in the city and want to meet an amazing group of people, then you belong here.
We'll be catching shows at some of the staple local venues like Black Cat, 9:30 Club, IOTA, U St. Music Hall, Rock and Roll Hotel, DC9-among others. This group has a very active calendar of events, and we typically meet almost every week.
While our purpose is to, well, meet up-this group is to also support local musicians in the DMV area and to help garner buzz about these talented artists.
Meetups aren't strictly related to seeing artists that reflect one genre, as we'll be seeing a variety of shows that will suit anyone's musical tastes.
This group is sponsored by D.C. Music Download, a music magazine website covering local artists in the District.
See you at one of the events!
-Stephanie, Head Meetup Organizer
We're a daily online magazine that covers local music in the District.
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Bachelor degrees from accredited colleges and universities can be important stepping-stones toward a successful career.The most common type of undergraduate program is a bachelor's degree, usually awarded after four years of successful study
A Bachelor is a popular college degree that is pursued by students who want to gain knowledge in a specific area of study. Completed in three to five years, it is available in a variety of study disciplines.
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom and Britain, is a sovereign state located off the north-western coast of continental Europe.The two most famous (and oldest) universities are Oxford and Cambridge (often referred to as Oxbridge by many Britons) England also has several other world-class institutions, including several in London (notably Imperial College, the London School of Economics, University College London and King's College London, all are part of London University)
Search Bachelor Degrees in Bournemouth in United Kingdom 2017
With hundreds of locations across the U.S., Canada, Australia and theU.K., the Recording Connection has helped thousands of students find their way in to rewarding music industry careers by placing them as working apprentices (externs) in actual recording studios. [+]