Nitrogen versus old-fashioned air in Your Tires

Rob MacGregor Globe & Mail Dec 2009

For the nitrogen versus old-fashioned air the jury is still out.

I hate to sound like a fence-sitter but because this technology is new, it's difficult to commit to a firm statement one way or the other.

The theory behind using N is that the molecules are slightly larger than air, which is really a makeup of 78 per cent nitrogen and 22 per cent oxygen. That small concentration of oxygen molecules is just enough to create a dilution of the overall mix, allowing for a greater chance of the air molecule to literally leak between the rubber molecules. This is the norm with tires. Many of you will have experienced this when leaving a vehicle or a boat trailer unattended for more than a month. The tire pressures will drop off noticeably through this process.

Another advantage to N is the fact that it is non-corrosive, unlike air or more importantly, the oxygen in the air. Oxygen has been blamed for the rust that forms on the inside of a mounted tire and wheel assembly, because as everyone knows, rust is simply the combination of oxygen and iron, or iron-oxide. With only nitrogen inside the tire/wheel combination, there is no way for rust to form.

But the downside of nitrogen is that there is not much in the way of infrastructure support for refilling your tires. This is the biggest push back on this issue and it's a strong case, not to mention that there is usually an added cost by installing N.

I actually had a set of new tires installed on my car and was asked if I wanted to use nitrogen. Based on the info above I elected to go with good old-fashioned air.

The case is getting stronger and stronger in favour of N, especially when you get front men like Jay Leno advocating for you. His video is on this web site: http://www.getnitrogen.org/

Many Canadian provinces and U.S. states are adopting hands free cell phone laws.  This is what you, the driver, need to know.

It’s no secret that driving a vehicle while distracted is incredibly dangerous to both you and other drivers on the road.  One major distraction that has crept up on lawmakers throughout Canada and the United States is the cell phone.  Cell phones do indeed make our lives easier is countless ways, but there is a time and a place for such convenience.  It is not a convenience that one should abuse while behind the wheel.  We need our full wits about us when driving and, needless to say, governments in many provinces and states have taken action in this regard.  This is what you need to know about hands free driving laws in Canada.

What’s So Bad About Talking Or Texting While Driving?

Before discussing hands free laws, we first need to take a look at what effect a lack of attention on roadways has.  A rather informative research paper by the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) reveals a lot about what occurs to a driver when they are too concerned with their cell phones.  Specifically, the OMA points out that cell phone use while driving contributes to a reduced field of vision, inconsistent speed, safe following distance infractions, delayed braking and lack of a full response to stoplight changes.  On top of those reasons, the OMA also found that drivers who paid more attention to their cell phones tended not to pay attention to their mirrors, experienced a lack of stoplight inspection and did more hard braking.

Plainly, the dangers of paying too much attention to your cell phone while driving are numerous and quite real.  Even though it is not mentioned, the most obvious danger of cell phone use while driving is the potential to cause an accident.

Canadian Law

Currently, there is not a widespread Canadian law governing the use of cell phones while driving.  However, a few provinces have taken the initial step to curb cell phone usage while driving.  The provinces that have made it illegal to talk or text while driving are Quebec, Newfoundland, Labrador and Nova Scotia.  In other words, if you are caught talking or texting while driving, you may face a potentially stiff fine and points on your driver’s license.

The next province to officially ban the use of cell phones while driving is Ontario (along with emailing, watching DVDs, playing with video games and operating MP3 devices).  The law was recently passed in April, but it does not take effect until November.  Once November comes around though, drivers caught breaking this law can be subject to a maximum fine of $500 (CAN).  Under the current configuration, there will be no points charged to one’s license, but if you are found to be endangering others on the road (or off), you can face a maximum fine of $1000 (CAN) and six points added to your license.

What Do I Do?

Seeing that many provinces are now cracking down on cell phone usage while driving, you, the driver now have to take action.  I know that it may seem like an ingrained habit to talk or text while driving, but there are safer alternatives that are in line with the law.

Use the speakerphone.  Almost all modern cell phones have a speakerphone function, which can be activated at the touch of a button.  If that is not your style, check out your cell phone a bit more to see if it has Bluetooth technology included in it.  If your phone has Bluetooth, go out and spend a little money on a hands-free earpiece.  They are simple little devices that fit into your ear and connect with ease to your phone.  If your phone does not have Bluetooth, it most likely came with a 'wired' earpiece that hooks up to your phone via a small jack on the side or bottom of it.  It may not be as convenient as a Bluetooth device, but it works.

If none of those options fit your needs, do the simple and right thing if you have to make or take a call.  Pull over somewhere convenient and then deal with the cell phone.

Picking the best among the classic Mustang, Camaro and Challenger

Scott Burgess Det News

Lots of cars used to come strapped with muscle, they've been on display along Woodward Avenue all week. With big V-8s crammed under their hoods, they bubbled with power at every stop light.

But times have changed. Direct injection has replaced scoops, and computers have replaced cables. Wrenching just about any new car today requires a lab coat and degree from MIT.

But for the first time in nearly 10 years, the modern interpretations of three classic pony cars are available as new models: the Mustang, the Camaro and the Challenger. These names are so recognizable that you don't need to include their respective brands, Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge. People just know.

Each model comes in three basic forms: Basic (think V-6); Mid-level (think sporty); and Ferocious (think mean and snarling).

Around Detroit, people know the difference. Recently, I drove the Ford Shelby GT500 through a parking lot, and a little boy pointed out the car to his father. "Look Daddy, a Mustang."

"No, that's a GT500," the father corrected him.

There is a difference. The Challenger SRT8, the Camaro SS and the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 have no other competition, and figuring out the best among the three is no easy task.

There's no changing the minds of loyalists. A Ford man knows with all his heart that Mustangs rule, and the Chevy lover and Mopar maniac are just as confident. But everyone else knows you can only buy one: So which one is it? It's a task more difficult than you think: I love all three for slightly different reasons.

Exterior

Each car offers a distinctive look and follows a slightly different path -- though all conjure up their respective heritage without duplicating it.

Challenger: This is the most retro of the three cars. Reintroduced in 2008, the Challenger draws the most from its past. The four headlamps set deep in the grille. The long body has added a few pounds around its waistline, approaching middle age with the same demeanor as many of its owners.

Mustang: The GT500 joins the redesigned 2010 Mustang with a new exterior and clean, fast lines. It's modern but points back to its roots. Like the Challenger, it's thicker than the original, but carries it well. The new Mustang includes sequential blinking tail lights and the chamfered corners.

Camaro: Of the three, the Chevy is the most modern and futuristic-looking. Its small greenhouse, chiseled lines and big back end give it a unique look. It's a generation removed from the traditional Camaros with the design based on the concept car shown a few years ago at the Detroit Auto Show. That car was loosely based on the 1967 Camaro. The end result: Perfection.

Winner: Draw

Interior

While each exterior stands on its own merits, the same is not true of the interiors. Every carmaker provides all the high-tech amenities car owners want, such as Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone operation, top-of-the-line stereos, but only one stands above the others.

Challenger: Simple and clean, the Challenger offers the most space of the three. It's the only coupe of the three that can seat five people -- the others can only carry four. However, the big hulking dashboard comes across as cheap and the finishing details need to improve. It's a nice start, but it feels incomplete.

Camaro: The interior space is comfortable and sophisticated. Recessed speedo and tach gauges add to the car's appearance and I never missed the navigation system, knowing OnStar was just a push of a button away. Real metal trim would have fared much better than the plastic designed to look like metal. There's a lot more attention paid to peripheral details, such as door inserts and ergonomic controls, and the seats are extremely comfortable.

Mustang: Ford has had the most time to improve its interior because it has never discontinued the model. The additional time pays off with an all new dash with aluminum trim. The gentle, curving center console feels balanced, and shortening the emergency brake means your knee will no longer rest against the handle while driving. The plethora of accessories provides everything an owner could want. Ford's voice-activated infotainment system Sync is ahead of the others.

Winner: Mustang

Performance

All of these cars offer more power, more abilities and more, well, power, than any person really needs. They will blow their historical counterparts from the '60s off the road. Each also provides an incredible V-8 rumble that no turbocharger can ever duplicate. Listening to them idle is a mechanical symphony.

Camaro: Combine a 422-horsepower 6.2-liter V-8 and an independent suspension, and you've got a great ride. The SS may have the strength of 40 mules, but it races on the highway like a thoroughbred. The steering is clean and provides great feedback without working out your forearms. The Camaro manages 24 miles per gallon on the highway, which is 2 mpg better than the Ford and 5 mpg better than the Dodge.

Challenger: The legendary 6.1-liter Hemi V-8 gives the Challenger SRT8 a little more muscle than the Camaro. But it needs it because of its length and size. Both the Camaro and Mustang feel smaller on the open road, though the Challenger in straight line takeoffs is excellent.

Mustang: It may have the smallest V-8 in the bunch, but the supercharged 5.4-liter engine crushes the competition when it comes to raw power producing 540 horses. It's the kind of power that surges through you when hit the accelerator. Additional suspension tuning and great tires helps the GT500 handle corners better, despite having the solid rear axle. But there's almost too much power surging through this car. Hit a concrete seam through a big turn and you'll learn how scary axle hops can be.

Winner: Camaro

Overall winner

For many people who want to own a modern-day muscle car, the price will be the first consideration. The Camaro SS is nearly $10,000 less than the Challenger SRT8 and $17,000 less than the GT500, making it a steal by comparison.

However, Ford has created an entire series of Mustangs out of its pony car with its partnership with Carroll Shelby. Furthermore, the GT500 can come as a drop top, something the Challenger and Camaro do not offer. (A convertible Camaro is due to arrive in 2011 and Dodge has no plans to produce a convertible Challenger.) Really, there is something for everyone. But if I were to pick an all-round, top-of-the-line muscle car, the crown would go to the GT500. It's the complete package with power, comfort and an engine note that grumbles sweet nothings.

But in this race, coming in second is not bad either.

Joan Brunet pulled one last weed from the wet ground of her Oakville garden, then watched in horror as a spider latched on to her finger, oozing a clear, whitish venom into her hand.

Panicked, the senior shook her hand and finally knocked the spider off, but seconds later, she was drenched in sweat, losing control of her body as her vision blurred.

By the time an ambulance arrived, Brunet was still conscious, but said the spider bite had turned her body to "jelly."

Doctors were puzzled at first, but an entomologist ruled the bite to be from a black widow.

"I couldn't move my arms, I couldn't close my hands or anything," she said yesterday from Oakville-Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, where she has been since she was bitten July 28. "Now I've got just about everything back."

Though she is slowly regaining mobility in her arms, Brunet still has no feeling below her knees and can't yet walk.

After the bite, she struggled into the house and managed to pour an entire bottle of rubbing alcohol over her swollen red and blue hand, dulling the pain.

Then she fell to the floor, almost completely paralyzed. She managed to call her daughter in Toronto, who called an ambulance.

Brunet remembers telling her daughter, "You cannot call the ambulance, it's just a silly spider bite."

Brunet's encounter was unusual. A black widow's neurotoxin is usually reserved for its insect prey and the spiders are naturally timid, preferring to retreat than attack.

"Their behaviour is such that we don't come across them that much," Royal Ontario Museum entomologist Antonia Guidotti told the Star.

In the last year, there have been two other northern black widow sightings in the GTA. Brunet said an Australian patient in a nearby hospital bed was shocker to hear of a black widow bite in Ontario. Another patient and avid gardener encouraged her to talk to the press, so GTA gardeners would be aware of dangerous spiders and wear gloves.

Northern black widow females – the poisonous ones – can be recognized by hourglass-shaped orange colouring on their abdomens.

Gratuitous Tips on Tipping

Not knowing the proper tip or gratuity for a service can be very unsettling. The rest of your party might not know it, but inside you may feel highly stressed as you walk up to the coat check or curbside check-in. The challenge is not everyday situations, but when you are taken out of your normal environment. For example, if you travel only occasionally, hotel tipping etiquette can be a real mystery.

Remember that tipping is discretionary. If you don't think tipping is necessary in a particular circumstance, then don't tip. This is a guide for people who are planning to tip and want to know the customary amount. If you think tipping in general is stupid, then don't tip. But don't complain that the minimum wage is too low. Don't complain that the only new jobs being created are low income.

This is a guide. It is not implying a moral obligation to tip. That said, if you are using a service that is widely-known to be a tipped service, such as restaurants, bars, hair salons, valet parking, etc., then I believe there is a moral obligation to tip for good service. Here is why - a waiter at a restaurant provides you service with the expectation of being compensated a minimum of 15% for quality service. If you don't intend to tip, then you should tell the waiter up front so that he can decide whether or not to provide you the service.

Have mercy!

Have you had a hard day traveling or at work? Do you feel a little grumpy? Were you sharp with someone?

Well, guess what! People in service industries don't always have great days either. Show them a little mercy and assume the best about them. Maybe your waiter is a little absent-minded because his mother is sick in the hospital.

Instead of skipping the tip, talk to the manager about poor service.

Pre-tax or post-tax?

This is a common question. Custom says that tips are calculated pre-tax, but many people just use the total bill either for the sake of simplicity or to be more generous. In other words, either way is fine.

Coupons and gift certificates

If you received a coupon or gift certificate, how do you calculate the tip? Tipping is always based upon the normal price of the good or service. If you get a coupon for 20% off, then tip on the original price. The amount of work done by the server is not less because you paid less. If you have a coupon for a free entree, then tip based upon the regular price of the entree.

Many gift certificates today act more like a debit card. A $50 card is the equivalent to $50 cash, but it can only be used at the named store or restaurant. In that case, you can use the card to pay for the tip as well as the food or service. If you have a gift certificate for a free meal or spa treatment, call the manager before you go and ask if the gratuity is included. If it is not, ask for the estimated value of the gift certificate, and then tip in cash based upon that amount.

But the service is already so expensive!!

With proper tipping etiquette, the percentages of your tips do not change because of the cost of the service. Let's take a hair salon, for example. Of course, you can always tip on the lower end of 10-20%. But if you are going to go to a more expensive salon, then it is assumed that you can afford $120 plus tip. If it is really a big crunch for you, then I would recommend going less often or finding a salon that is more within your budget.

Tipping the Owner

This is the question I get asked most via email - do you tip the owner of a company when he or she provides your service. The answer used to be no. Now it is yes.

Christmas Holiday Tipping Etiquette

Christmas is a great time of year to remember those people who serve you regularly. Since it only occurs once a year, holiday tipping can be a source of holiday stress, but it need not be so. I recommend a gift or a tasteful Christmas card with a tip inside. Delivery should occur in the month of December prior to Christmas day. Tip those who serve you all year long and with whom you have a personal relationship.

• Maid - one week's pay. This is for maids in your employ whom you pay directly. If you use a service and never know who is coming out, don't tip at all.
• Gardener - $20-50.
• USPS Mail carrier - Non-cash gifts with value up to $20. This is for mail carriers that you know and see regularly. Read more below.
• UPS - Regular driver - $15.
• FedEx - Not allowed to accept cash gifts, but a gift up to $25 in value is permissible.
• Apartment building superintendent - $50-200. Tip less if you tip throughout the year.
• Apartment Doorman/concierge - $10-80 or more each, depending upon building. The fewer doormen the building has, the more you tip each one. Those who serve you more should get a bigger tip.
• Apartment building handyman - $15-40 each.
• Apartment building elevator operators - $15-40 each.
• Shampoo - $10
• Manicurist/pedicurist - $15 or more
• Hairdresser/stylist - $15 or more
• Massage therapist - $15 or more.
• Newspaper carrier - Daily - $25 - 50, weekend - $10
• Regular overnight delivery person - $10-30
• Teacher - $25-100. Give a gift certificate to a bookstore or office supply store. If you know the teacher's hobbies or interests, then a gift certificate would be nice from the local movie theater, hobby shop, mall, fine restaurant or day spa. Some teachers might feel uncomfortable receiving gifts around grade time. If you are unsure, ask your principal first.
• Coaches, tutors, ballet instructors, music teachers - A small gift from your child.
• Garbage collector(s) - $15-30 each. Nowadays, most garbage collectors are really truck drivers. The truck has an arm that does all the work. If this is your situation, there is no need to tip.
• Baby sitter - One night's pay, plus a small gift from your child.
• Full-time nanny - One week's to one month's pay based on tenure, plus a small gift from your child.
• Au pair - One week's pay, plus a small gift from your child.
• Day care service - $25-70, plus a small gift from your child.
• Parking attendants - $10-20 each
• Personal trainer - $60-100 upon reaching goal.
• Country Club - I believe in tipping at Christmas regardless of the club's tipping policy. I recommend a minimum of $50 for your waiters, locker-room personnel, front-desk employees, and golf professionals. For head waiters or special service, make it $100.
• Dog groomer - 1/4 - 1/2 cost of a session.
• Dog walker or sitter - 1-2 week's pay.

Gifts for USPS Mail Carriers

There are rules regarding gifts for USPS mail carriers. I'll quote them from the a USPS article.

At the airport

The first opportunity to tip during travel is usually upon arriving at the airport or train station. Here are some tipping guidelines:

• Porter or skycap - $2 per bag or more if the bags are heavy. $2 extra for curbside check-in is optional. If you arrive late and he helps you get to your flight on time, tip an extra $5-20.
• Electric cart driver - $2-$3 a person.
• Wheelchair pusher - If they are just pushing you down the ramp from the gate to the plane (or in reverse), then nothing. If it is from the ticket counter to the gate/plane or from the gate/plane to the luggage carousel, then $5 is appropriate. Tip more if they help you with your luggage ($1-2 per bag) or if they help you to your car. If they are pushing you from one terminal to another (long distances), then $10-20 would be appropriate plus extra for luggage. Tip less if they are unpleasant or rude.
• Flight attendant or other in-flight personnel - Nothing .
• Charter pilot - Nothing. It is not necessary to tip pilots unless they provide extra services. Then it is whatever you deem appropriate for the service.

Tipping on Trains

Tipping on trains can be very confusing because most people don't travel by train often and the situations can be confusing. For instance, sometimes the meal is included, sometimes it isn't.

• Dining car waiters, stewards and bar car waiters: 15 percent of bill (or estimated cost of meal when included)
• Red caps, or porters: $1 per bag
• Sleeping car attendant: $5 per passenger per day

Ground transportation

• Taxi, limo, paid shuttle, or van driver - 15% of the total fare. Up to 20% if the driver helps with the bags or makes extra stops. No less than $1. If someone else is picking up the tab, they are responsible for tipping also. Be careful, the rate quoted for limos often includes gratuity.
• Driver of courtesy shuttle - $1-$2 per bag if he helps with the bags.
• Auto dealership shuttle driver - Nothing.

At the hotel

Before you arrive at a nicer hotel or resort, inquire as to whether gratuities are included in the price of the room. Some hotels are now charging a daily fee that covers all tipping for hotel services. If there is not a daily fee, these rates are appropriate:

• Valet or parking attendant - $1-3 is appropriate for parking or returning the car. It is not necessary to tip for parking, but always for returning the car.
• Doorman - If he hails you a cab, $1-2. If he helps you with your bags in or out of the car, $1 a bag. Use $1-2 per bag if he carries them all the way to the room. If he just opens the door, nothing. If he is helpful with directions or restaurant recommendations, $5.
• Bellman - When he helps you with your bags, tip $1-2 per bag. Give him the tip when he shows you your room. If he just carries the bags to the front desk and then disappears, save it for the person who carries the bags to your room. Upon checkout, tip a bellman who helps with your bags. Tip more for additional services.
• Front Desk - Typically there is no tip for the front desk, but if they help you with early check-in or late check-out, tip $1-2.
• Concierge - $5-10 for help with hard-to-get dinner reservations or theater tickets. Tipping is optional for just plain advice, but $5 is the minimum. Tipping can be done at the end of the trip or at the time of service, just keep is straight so that you are fair.
• Butler - $5-10 per service or $50-100 per night. Very special services like meals when the restaurant is closed are more like $50.
• Room Service - If gratuity is included, add nothing or $1. Otherwise add 15-20% to the total charge.
• Delivery of special items - If you request extra pillows or an iron, tip $1 per item received, minimum $2.
• Maid service - $3-5 per day typically, up to $10 per day depending upon how much mess you make. Tip daily because there might be a different maid each day. Leave the tip on your pillow. Err on the side of being generous, and tip on the last day also. If they change out your linens by request, give $1-2 each time.
• Bath Butler - 15-20%. Bath butlers are not very common. They draw a luxurious bath for you with your choice of available options such as champagne, candles, chocolates, aromatic salts, rose petals, music, etc.
• Swimming pool or gym attendant - Nothing, unless you require special services such as extra seating or inflating pool toys; then it is $2-5. If you want the same deck chairs every day, then tip $2-3 per chair beginning the first day.
• Tanning Butler - $5-10 per lotion application.
• Ski Valet - $2-5 per person, per day. A ski valet helps with rentals, stores shoes and provides dry boots each day, and stores your gear at the end of the day. They also provide trail maps, ski lift times, rides to the lift, etc. If he serves as a guide on special trails, tip an extra $50.
• Hotel maintenance staff or Technology Engineer - Nothing to replace a light bulb, fix the air conditioning, internet access, etc. If they teach you how to do something on your computer that is not a responsibility of the hotel like burning a CD, then tip $10-20.
• Personal Shopper - Personal shoppers don't typically work for the hotel. 10% of the total purchases is appropriate. You can also have the hotel send them a gift of jewelry or wine. Recommending their services to others is a great tip.
• Spa Technician - Most hotels automatically include an 18% service charge in the bill. If it is not included, tip 18%. If the service is provided in your room, the hotel will typically add a separate fee of $25-40 to your treatment - the 18% tip is on the new total.

Tipping at a Bed and Breakfast (B&B)

Many, if not most B&Bs have a no-tipping policy in the US and Canada. In other countries it varies. It never hurts to tip, but it is definitely not expected, and many B&Bs specifically ask that you do not. Most are family owned and the price they charge covers everything.

The safest bet is to inquire at the specific Bed and Breakfast where you plan to stay before you arrive.

If there is hired housekeeping staff, then tip the same as at a hotel.

Tour guides

Check ahead. If the tip is not already included, give 10-15% of the tour price. No less than $1-2 for a half-day tour, $3-4 for a full-day tour, and $5-10 for a week-long tour. This is a per-person rate. Tip private tour guides more. If the bus driver is particularly helpful with bags, then tip $1-2 per bag.

• Boat trip - If the trip is over 3 hours, tip $10-$75 depending upon the cost of the excursion and the quality of service.
• Outdoor guides (fly fishing, horseback riding, river rafting, etc.) - 15% of the cost of the service. Some companies have a no-tipping policy. Check when you book the trip.
• Private Yacht Charter - Tip the crew 10-20% of the charter fee based upon the quality of service. Hand the gratuity to the Captain for distribution to the crew.

Cruise ships

Many cruise ships have a no-tipping policy. Find out in advance. If you are supposed to tip, find out if it is done at the end of the trip or at the time of service. Oftentimes, at the end of the cruise you are provided envelopes with suggested tip amounts. If you are supposed to tip, budget about $20 per day.

• Waiter - $3 per day per person.
• Cabin steward - $3 per day per person.
• Bus boy - $1.5 per day per person.
• maitre d' - Not necessary unless special services provided.
• Bar steward - Usually, 15% is automatically added to bill.

Restaurants or bars

If you get awful service, talk to the manager. The manager cannot correct the situation if he doesn't know about it. Skipping the tip will not accomplish anything, and the next poor customer who gets that server will get the same service you did.

If you are buying the meal and someone offers to get the tip, tell them they can buy next time, and you pay the whole thing. This prevents any uneasiness about them seeing the amount of the bill or worrying that they will be stingy on the tip.

Restaurants report a percentage (around 12%) of the gross sales for food and beverage to the IRS for their staff. This means that if you have a $200 food bill and $200 wine bill, the restaurant will report 12% of $400 or $48 as income to the server. In other words, the server has to pay tax on it whether you tip it or not. If the restaurants do not report it accurately, the restaurant and the wait staff get audited by the IRS.

Please don't get hung up on the 12%. It is just a reasonable example. I recommend tipping 10-15% on the alcohol and 15-20% on the food. 10% on the wine is perfectly acceptable. Whether to tip 10 or 15 percent would depend in large part on how helpful the server was in choosing the wine and serving it.

• Food server - 15-20%.
• Self-service restaurant or buffet - Nothing unless there is some service. Tip 10% if the server delivers all or part of your meal or keeps your drinks refilled.
• Takeout - If you get good service, in other words, the waiter gets and packages the food, then at your choice you can tip $1-2 or up to 10%. Nothing is really necessary.
• Drive through - Nothing.
• When breakfast is included in the price of the hotel room - Estimate the value of the meal by looking at a menu. If there is no breakfast menu, consider the quality of the hotel and the price of an evening meal, then make your best estimate. Your tip is 15-20% of your estimate.
• Teppanyaki chef - 15-20% of the total bill. The gratuity will be split among the wait staff and the chef.
• Counter service - 15-20%.
• Cocktail server - 15-20%. For free drinks in Vegas, tip $1-2 per round.
• Bartender - 15-20% or $1 per drink. If at the bar before a meal, settle up with the bartender before you go to your table.
• Wine steward or sommelier - 10% of wine bill.
• If a bar has a cover charge, you do not tip on it.
• Busboys - Nothing, unless he did something extra special like cleaning up a huge mess. Then give him $1-2.
• Maitre d' - Nothing, unless he gets you a special table or the restaurant is full and you had no reservation. Then give $5-10 or more.
• Coat check - $1
• Restroom attendant - $1
• Separate checks - If you want separate checks, ask the server to go ahead and add 18% gratuity to each check.
• Musician that visits table - $2-3 if you make a special request. Optional if he just stops by and plays.
• Musician in lounge - $1-5

Double time

If you hold a table for two serving periods, make sure that you tip double. In other words, if you spend enough time at a table that a waiter could have typically gotten two parties seated and served, then compensate him for his time by tipping him twice. I like to ease his mind by telling him this about half-way through.

Barbers, salons, spas

• Barber - $2-3
• Hair Stylist or Color Specialist - 10-20%. $3-5 extra for last-minute service.
• Hair extensions - 10-20%, regardless of the cost of the service.
• Shampoo or other assistant - $2-5 for each person. Hand the tip directly to the person providing the service.
• Manicure or Facial- 15%
• Massage therapist - No tip if at doctor's office. 10-15% otherwise. If they come to your home or hotel room, find out in advance whether a tip is included in the price.
• Electrologist, laser hair removal - Nothing.
• Salon or spa package - Determine in advance whether a service charge is included. If none is included, then 15-20% split among the service providers. You can ask for it to be divided, pay each person at the time of service, or leave it in envelopes available at the front desk.
• If the salon messed up your service, and you return for a re-do, do not tip again.
• Owner who provides any of the above services - Follow the rules above.
• The location of the service provider is irrelevant in determining the tip. It doesn't matter if they work in a salon, rent their space, or work out of their home.

Country club

At many golf or country clubs, tips are included in your monthly bill. 57% of country clubs have a no tipping policy. It is worthwhile to look it up or check with your club first.

• Shoe shine - $2 per pair.
• Golf cart girls - 15%, minimum of $1-2. Round it.
• Small errands - $5. What's a small errand? Running to the store, sending a fax, calling a cab.
• Bag guy - $1-2 per bag.
• Large errands - $10-20. For concierge-type services of ordering flowers, obtaining hard-to-get theater tickets, etc.
• Golf caddies - $15-25 per person above any fee for the caddy.
• Golf or tennis pro lessons - Nothing.
• Restaurants - same as at any other restaurant. See above.

Weddings

Many contracted services for weddings include tips in the final bill. Make sure you read your contract carefully so that you are not double tipping. As always, if you receive service above and beyond what you expected, extra tipping is recommended.

• Civil ceremony officials - $50 - $75, more if travel involved
• Wedding planner - Nothing.
• Minister, priest, rabbi - Minimum of $100, more if travel involved. Give the gratuity to the best man who will in turn give it to the officiant following the ceremony.
• Coat check - 50 cents per guest.
• Limo driver - 15% of the total fare. Make sure the tip is not included already in the bill.
• Florists - Only necessary when service is beyond expectations, up to 15%
• Photographers - Only necessary when service is beyond expectations, up to 15%
• Bakers - Only necessary when service is beyond expectations, up to 15%
• Reception Musicians or DJs - Only necessary when service is beyond expectations, up to 15% or $25-50 per person.
• Open bar at receptions - There are two views on this. Some say tip $1 for each visit to the bar. Other's contend that the tax and tip are included in the cost of the open bar, and that the guest should only tip if it is a cash bar. I lean toward the latter view, but it never hurts to be generous. If you are the host of the event, make sure it is not included. If it is not included, the tip is 15-20%.
• Catering hall wedding coordinator - $50 for the coordinator, and something less for the assistant ($25). Make sure it is not included in the price of the event.
• Banquet captain - $20-100.
• Wedding organist, musician or soloist - First check whether or not the gratuity is included in the rental of the church. If not, $50 per person or $75 per person for close friends.

Funeral Etiquette

The tip or gratuity for the clergyman who performs a funeral service is called the honorarium. The amount of the honorarium is typically $50-200. The amount is personal and varies based upon many factors:

• How much of the service does the clergyman perform, and does it include a graveside service?
• How many ministers are speaking at the service.
• How well do you know the minister?
• How good of a job does he do?
• What is customary for the area?
• How much can you afford?

When my daughter died, I had two ministers from my church perform the services. One spoke for the memorial service, and the other did the graveside. Both refused the honorarium. When this happens, wait a couple of months and do something special for him. Be sure to send a thank you card regardless.

If you are still not sure how much to give, then ask for some help from the funeral director. He will know what is customary.

You do not tip a funeral director.

Tipping Caterers

Tipping Caterers can be a real mystery. The best thing to do is to talk to the caterer in advance. Most caterers have a service charge that is included in the bill and is distributed to the cooks, driver and wait staff. If there is no service charge or it is not for the people doing the work, then tipping 15% of the entire bill is appropriate. This amount should be divided among the servers by the on-site manager. If it is included, you don't need to tip any more. Of course, if someone really goes out of his way for you, then feel free to tip that individual extra, remembering that it will be extra.

Tipping Movers

There are many things to consider in a move. A professional mover is going to be careful to protect your floors, walls, doorways, and belongings. That said, it is unlikely that your move will go perfectly, whether you are moving yourself or paying someone else to do it. Something will get broken. The question that matters is were they being careless, or was it a genuine accident? Every time I have moved furniture myself, I have caused more damage to my home than movers ever had. I take this into consideration when I look at accidents.

Tipping occurs at the completion of the job. Consider providing lunch if the move extends over lunch, and always provide beverages for the movers.

• One mover - limited move - 1-10 items and nothing over 20 pounds - $10-20
• One mover - difficult move - The degree of difficulty changes based upon stairs, narrow passages, small elevators, large or heavy items, appliances, etc. - $20-50.
• Multiple movers - Basically tip each mover the same as above, but lower it by $5-10 for each mover. Feel free to pool the tip and give it to the supervisor for distribution, but don't lower the amount because you combined it. The problem with combining the tip is that you cannot reward people based upon their individual performances.
• Car Shipping - There is not much information available about tipping the truck drivers. $20-25 is probably appropriate.

Emergency roadside service

Consider the level of danger. Tip an additional amount if it is roadside service versus in a parking lot.

• Towing service - $5 - $20 depending upon circumstances and your desperation.
• Jump start - $3 - $5
• Tire change - $4 - $5
• Locked out of car - $5 - $10

Miscellaneous services

• Accountants - Nothing.
• Appliance repairman - Nothing.
• Auto mechanic - Not necessary. If you insist, tip about $10-20 for bills up to $500, and $50 for bills over $500.
• Bagger at grocery store - Check in advance to see if the store has a no tipping policy. Most have one. If it doesn't, then $1-3 for the bagger and $1-5 for the person who loads your car.
• Baptism - Nothing.
• Car detailing - 15%
• Car salesman - Nothing.
• Car wash - $2-3 for a car; $3-5 for an SUV or large vehicle. If there is a tip jar, leave your tip there. It will be split among the workers. Otherwise, tip the person(s) who did the cleanup after the wash.
• Carpet cleaners - Nothing.
• Clown at children's party - $15-25 depending upon the quality of the performance and the heat level of the day. Others say 15-20% of the performers fee.
• Contractors, installers, and home remodelers - Nothing. Offer a cool drink instead.
• Cosmetologist at makeup counter - Nothing. Makeover specialist at department store - Nothing unless you used over 15 minutes of her time and then bought nothing.
• Electricians and plumbers - Nothing. Offer a cool drink instead.
• Exotic club - Nothing. Shame on you. I can't believe you would even ask.
• Farriers or horse haulers- Nothing.
• Financial planners - Nothing.
• Graphic designer - Nothing.
• Interior designer - Nothing.
• Maids - Nothing, except at Christmastime. See above.
• Mary Kay representative - Nothing.
• Mortgage loan officer - Nothing.
• Nurses - Nothing.
• Painters (house) - Nothing. Offer them a cool drink instead.
• Personal shopper or salesperson at department store - Nothing.
• Pet groomers - Most pet groomers are paid based upon a commission, not a regular salary or hourly wage. Typically your tip is 15% of the bill or $2 per dog, whichever is greater. If your dog is difficult, then tip more. Obviously, don't tip if the quality is poor.
• Pet sitters - Tipping is not required, but most pet sitters will appreciate a tip. 15% is appropriate if you want to tip.
• Physical therapist - Nothing.
• Piano tuner - Nothing.
• Realtors® or real estate agents - Nothing. The best way to say thanks is to refer people to them.
• Sports arena in-seat food service - This one is tricky. At most arenas you tip the person who takes the order 15%. You tip at the time of payment, not delivery. The best thing to do is to ask before you order. You definitely do not need to tip both the order taker and the deliverer unless you split it.
• Shoeshine - $1-2.
• Swimming lesson instructor - Nothing.
• Tailor or seamstress - Nothing.
• Tattoo or piercing artist - 10-20% or whatever you can afford. It isn't necessary, but it is appreciated.
• Telephone, security, cable, satellite, internet installers or repairmen - Nothing.
• Title company closing agents - Nothing.
• Travel agents - Nothing.
• Tree removal service - Nothing.
• Weekly lawn or landscaping service - Nothing.
• Window tinting service - Nothing.
• Window washer - Nothing.

Tipping for Deliveries

• Furniture or appliance deliveries - $5-10 per person. If the delivery is huge, then $20 per person.
• Grocery delivery - Usually included in the fee.
• Pharmacy deliveries - Nothing. If you insist, $2-3 per delivery, not per prescription.
• Flower deliveries - $2-5 for normal deliveries and $5-10 for large ones.
• UPS/Fed Ex - None.
• Dry Cleaning or Laundry Delivery - Nothing. Most services instruct drivers not to accept gratuities.
• Liquor delivery - 10-15%.
• Newspaper - Nothing except at Christmastime. See above.
• Pizza deliveries or other food deliveries - 15%, but not less than $2.
• Delivering a big box like a TV to your car - Nothing. Most stores prohibit employees from receiving tips, and the employee may be subject to discipline for doing so.

Full-Service Gas Stations

If you receive service (clean windshield, check fluid levels, etc.), the tip varies from $1-5 depending upon how much they do. $1-2 for a good job on the windshield, and $3-5 for windshield and fluid check. If you have to ask the person to do these things or they do a poor job, then I wouldn't tip anything for windshield only or $1-2 for the full whammy.

There is one big exception. If the price of gas at the self-service pumps is $1.70 and the price for full-service is $2.50, then they are already charging you for the service.

Casino Tipping

Before we talk about casino tipping, let's discuss a budget. Before you go to a casino, you should determine how much you are willing to lose before you call it quits. Gambling is fine for entertainment, but it is not a good means of wealth accumulation. If the odds weren't in the house's favor, casinos would not make as much money as they do. Gambling without a budget is poor stewardship of your money. I personally recommend against gambling. I know too many people who didn't expect to have a problem but are now addicted to gambling. It can ruin families and finances.

Casino workers are a part of the service industry and make 2/3 of their income from tips. Without tips, they are grossly underpaid.

One general rule for tipping at a table is that you tip when you are winning, not losing.

• Craps or blackjack dealer - $5+ chip per session. If you prefer, you can place a side bet for the dealer up to 10%. The size depends upon the table's minimum bet; however, it need not ever exceed $25. At a $5 table, the tip would be a $1 chip. At a $25 table, use a $5 chip.
• Poker dealers - $5+ chip per session. You may tip 10% of your winnings, but not to exceed $25.
• Roulette dealers - $5+ chip per session.
• Keno writers/runners - $1+ for first ticket. If you play a lot, tip more. 5% if you win.
• Drinks waiter - $1+ chip per drink. Remember that you are getting free drinks because alcohol lowers your inhibitions and you will gamble more.
• Slot machine changers - These guys are pretty much obsolete because most machines today spit out paper receipts of winnings. If you do have a machine that pays in coins, tip $1+ chip per change, plus 5% on a jackpot, not to exceed $25.
• Slot machine attendants - $1-2 chip when they repair your machine.

Tip Jars

They're showing up everywhere -- tip jars. Most people hate them. Where is it appropriate to leave a tip in a tip jar? We'll cover some of the basics.

• Starbucks - Nothing.
• Any fast-food restaurant - Nothing.
• Buffet-lines or cafeterias - Nothing. If there is a person who comes around and keeps your tea glass full, tip him personally $1-2.
• Donut, bagel or coffee shop - Nothing.
• Sports arena concession stands - Nothing.
• If you get the idea that tip jars are out of place at any food-service establishment that does not actually bring the food to your table and keep your drinks refilled, then you are correct.
• Laundry service - Nothing.
• Car wash - $2-3 for a car; $3-5 for an SUV or large vehicle. If there is a tip jar, leave your tip there. It will be split among the workers. Otherwise, tip the person(s) who did the cleanup after the wash.
  
  

 Life span vs. age at retirement

1. Most Creative Years in the Life

The Nobel Laureate, Dr. Leo Esaki, delivered the distinguished lecture entitled "Innovation and Evolution: Reflections on a Life in Research" in the University of Texas at Dallas in the afternoon of Feb. 23, 2002 during the 2002 US National Engineering Week. In this lecture, Dr. Esaki indicated that most of the great discoveries and innovations by the Nobel Laureates occurred at the average age of 32 even though the Nobel prizes were awarded 10 or 20 years afterwards. Furthermore, Dr. Esaki indicated that the peak creativity of most scientists occurred around the age range of 20 to 30 years. As one gets older, the experience increases but the creativity decreases steadily with the age.

It is, therefore, very important to stimulate, encourage and cultivate many young people to get interested in science and engineering at their young age and to provide the optimal R&D environment for these very powerful young scientists and engineers to unleash their very strong creativities during their most precious and creative years around the age of 32.

2. Longevity Vs. Retirement Age

The pension funds in many large corporations (e.g., Boeing, Lockheed Martin, AT&T, Lucent Technologies, etc.) have been “Over Funded” because many “late retirees” who keep-on working into their old age and retire late after the age of 65 tend to die within two years after their retirements. In other words, many of these late retirees do not live long enough to collect all their fair shares of pension money such that they leave a lot of extra-unused money in the pension funds resulting in the over-funded pension funds.

Dr. Ephrem  (Siao Chung) Cheng provided the important results in the following Table 1 and the associated chart from an actuarial study of life span vs. age at retirement. The study was based on the number of pension checks sent to retirees of Boeing Aerospace.

Table 1 – Actuarial Study of life span vs. age at retirement.

Table 1 and the chart indicate that for people retired at the age of 50, their average life span is 86; whereas for people retired at the age of 65, their average life span is only 66.8. An important conclusion from this study is that for every year one works beyond age 55, one loses 2 years of life span on average.

The Boeing experience is that employees retiring at age of 65 receive pension checks for only 18 months, on average, prior to death. Similarly, the Lockheed experience is that employees retiring at age of 65 receive pension checks for only 17 months, on average, prior to death. Dr. David T. Chai indicated that the Bell Labs experience is similar to those of Boeing and Lockheed based on the casual observation from the Newsletters of Bell Lab retirees. A retiree from Ford Motor told Dr. Paul Tien-Lin Ho that the experience from Ford Motor is also similar to those in Boeing and Lockheed.

The statistics shown in the Pre-Retirement Seminar in Telcordia (Bellcore) indicates that the average age that Telcordia (Bellcore) employees start retirement is 57. Therefore, people who retire at the age of 65 or older are minority as compared to the number of early retirees.

The hard-working late retirees probably put too much stress on their aging body-and-mind such that they are so stressed out to develop various serious health problems that forced them to quit and retire. With such long-term stress-induced serious health problems, they die within two years after they quit and retire.

On the other hand, people who take early retirements at the age of 55 tend to live long and well into their 80s and beyond. These earlier retirees probably are either wealthier or more able to plan and manage their various aspects of their life, health and career well such that they can afford to retire early and comfortably.

These early retirees are not really idling after their early retirements to get old. They still continue doing some work. But they do the work on the part-time basis at a more leisure pace so that they do not get too stressed out. Furthermore, they have the luxury to pick and chose the types of part-time work of real interest to them so that they can enjoy and love doing that “fun” work at a more leisure pace. 

The late retirees are small in number, tend to die quickly after retirement and disappear from the population of old people beyond the age of 70. Late retirees, therefore, have very little weight on the statistical average life expectancy of the population of “old people” dominated by the early retirees.

Several years ago, a Japanese friend of mine told me that most Japanese people retire at the age of 60 or earlier. This may be one of the factors contributing to the long average life span of Japanese people.

3. Changing Trend of US Pension Plans

The traditional pension plans of many major US companies used to place a lot of value on the experience of long-term older employees by increasing the pension money rapidly and nonlinearly for long-term employees as their age + service year increases beyond the threshold of the rule of 75. Most long-term employees cross this critical threshold at about the age of 55. On the other hand, the early retirees incur very heavy penalty in pension and in other associated retiree benefits (e.g., employer paid medical insurance, employer paid life insurance, death benefits for family, etc.) when they retire before they meet the rule of 75.

However, in recent few years, many large US corporations are switching from their traditional retirement pension plans to the new portable Cash Balance Plans. The new portable cash balance plans are much more favorable to the younger employees but are very unfavorable to the long-term older employees. Some older long-term employees found that when their employers switched from the traditional pension plans to the cash balance plan, their pensions were reduced by 30% to 50%.

One of the implications of this trend towards the new cash balance plan is that the US corporations are now placing more value on the higher creativity and adaptability of younger employees and less value on the experience of the older employees. This is consistent with the accelerating pace of innovations and technology advances. The creative and dynamic younger employees are better positioned, than the older employees do, to keep up with the faster pace of technology advances.

4. Conclusion and Recommendations

The most precious, creative and innovative period in your life is the 10-year period around the age of 32. Plan your career path to use this precious 10-year period wisely and effectively to produce your greatest achievements in your life.

The pace of innovations and technology advances is getting faster and faster and is forcing everybody to compete fiercely at the Internet speed on the information super-highways. The highly productive and highly efficient workplace in USA is a pressure-cooker and a high-speed battleground for highly creative and dynamic young people to compete and to flourish.

However, when you get older, you should plan your career path and financial matter so that you can retire comfortably at the age of 55 or earlier to enjoy your long, happy and leisure retirement life into your golden age of 80s and beyond. In retirement, you can still enjoy some fun work of great interest to you and of great values to the society and the community, but at a part-time leisure pace on your own term.

On the other hand, if you are not able to get out of the pressure-cooker or the high-speed battleground at the age of 55 and “have” to keep on working very hard until the age of 65 or older before your retirement, then you probably will die within 18 months of retirement. By working very hard in the pressure cooker for 10 more years beyond the age of 55, you give up at least 20 years of your life span on average.

By Sing Lin, Ph.D.  林星雄 博士

Member of National Council of

Chinese Institute of Engineers – USA/Greater New York Chapter, and

Member of Board of Director of

National Taiwan University Alumni Association – Greater New York

March 2002

No matter what the economic climate, we would all like to be bailed out of higher auto insurance premiums.

Certainly that was a dominant theme during our online forum yesterday on thestar.com. Here is a sample of the questions and answers. To read the complete hour's worth of discussion, look under my columns on the website.

Q: Is it true that the business model of the auto insurance industry is based on collusion and fraud? I asked for rates from five brokers and their quotes were almost all identical.

A: There are three possible explanations for the similarity in prices quoted.

1. You happened to call five brokers that represent the same insurers. A handful of insurers that sell through brokers account for a high proportion of Ontario auto insurance business. Three other larger insurers (State Farm, The Co-operators and Allstate) do not sell through brokers. Other insurers market directly to affinity groups such as university alumni, for example TD Meloche Monnex, underwritten by Security National.

2. You have recent at-fault claims or driving infractions that make you such a high-risk driver only a couple of insurers – or the high-risk industry pool known as the Facility Association – would accept you as a policyholder.

3. Insurers have an acute streak of irony and have put out the word to brokers to direct all conspiracy theorists to Kingsway General.

You could use the online rate quotation services (insurancehotline.com, kanetix.ca, myinsuranceshopper.ca) to look for better rates than you were quoted.

Q: I found out that Grey Power hiked their rates by 15 per cent. Because of this I changed our car, van, and house insurance to another firm and got a much better rate for the same coverage. We have never had an at-fault accident and think Grey Power's move is unfair. Why are they allowed to do this?

A: Grey Power puts the bulk of its customers with Trafalgar Insurance, a subsidiary of Intact Financial Corp., which is the former ING Canada. Trafalgar has had two general rate increases approved by the Financial Services Commission of Ontario in the past year: 4.88 per cent for renewing customers last November, and 4.5 per cent starting June 1, for a combined increase of 9.6 per cent.

Your 15 per cent increase was obviously above the average, and I cannot guess the reason. Your business may not have been with Trafalgar, or your vehicles, neighbourhood or the Grey Power group of drivers may have had an increase in claims costs that was higher than average.

FSCO looks at the company's claims losses relative to premiums before approving rate increases and allows for companies to make a profit. Many Ontario insurers are complaining that their cost of injury claims is rising quickly, and will be applying for more rate increases if the government does not come up with a reasonable solution to the rising cost of claims, one that controls the amount of money spent on minor sprains and strains while leaving enough money to care for those with more serious brain and other injuries.

Q: I retired at the end of May. I called my insurance broker. I will not be driving to work any more. I was told to wait six months and then call them and to submit a form and return it to them. Should the broker adjust my premium now? Why wait six months? It does not make much sense to me.

A: Some insurers only adjust their rates at the time of contract renewal, while some (I am thinking of the Chieftain option with Dominion of Canada General) will adjust rates sooner, which has its advantages when rates are falling, but not when rates are rising, as is now the case. You could ask about your company's refund policy, shop the market for a cheaper rate based on your new driving status, and then judge whether it would be worthwhile to switch sooner.

Just be aware that some companies may have applied for rate increases that could kick in later. To get an idea about which companies have and have not raised rates, you could visit the website fsco.gov.on.ca and look under auto insurance and auto quarterly rate approvals.

Buy North American
Remember your kids are watching!

Click here for short video (or right click and save target as....)

CAW PENSION RALLY APRIL 23, 2009

Thanks to all Our Retirees
That Participated!

Also Thanks to Local 584 for their support and providing transportation.

Activists Converge on Queen’s
Park for Massive Pension Rally 

Over 15,000 demonstrators lined the grounds of Queen's Park, waving flags and holding placards outside the Ontario Legislative Building on April 23, demanding immediate action from governments and corporations to protect workers pensions.  

The event brought together union and non-union activists, community groups and senior organizations from across the province, a symbol of what CAW President Ken Lewenza called the “collective power of people” in his fiery speech to the crowd.

“Employers are taking advantage of this economic crisis to roll back the progress workers have made over the years to improve their standard of living,” Lewenza said. “But we’re going to use the collective power of the people to win economic and social justice.”

Lewenza was joined by labour leaders Ken Georgetti (President of the Canadian Labour Congress), Wayne Samuelson (President of the Ontario Federation of Labour), Smokey Thomas (President of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union), and Sid Ryan (President of the Canadian Union of Public Employees – Ontario).

“Workers will not be fodder in this mess – workers didn’t cause this mess,” said Ryan.

CAW Retired Workers Council President and National Executive Board member Len Harrison spoke about the important contributions retired workers make to communities across the country every day through their tireless volunteer efforts.

Harrison, a General Motors retiree from CAW Local 199 in St.Catharines, Ontario, has been outspoken on the desperate need to ensure the Ontario Pension Benefit Guarantee Fund is fully backstopped by government. Premier Dalton McGuinty has indicated the Fund was in jeopardy should a major corporation, like GM, go bankrupt.

Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath spoke about the connection between manufacturing job losses in the province and the growing pension crisis, calling on the government to backstop the Fund and increase the maximum monthly payout from $1,000 to $2,500.

Former CAW Local 1530 President Mary Jane MacKinnon, who represented workers at Nortel in Belleville, Ontario, and General Motors Salaried Pension Organization President Brian Rutherford, representing non-union employees at General Motors in Oshawa, also spoke at the rally.

The pension crisis is not just an issue that affects workers in the manufacturing sector, but one that touches all workers across the country, Lewenza said.

“It’s about working people having the right to retire with dignity and respect, and not having to worry about their pension and retirement income.”

Labour rallies will continue across the country in the coming weeks as part of the Canadian Labour Congress’ Get Real! It’s the Economy campaign.

Check the CAW website for more information: http://www.caw.ca/en/7317.htm

The likelihood of a bankruptcy by one, two or all of the big 3 is relatively high. What is bankruptcy and how will it affect you? Why are the corporations and both the Federal and Provincial governments demanding concessions to retirement pensions and benefits? Why are retirees and workers being blamed for the present situation in the Auto industry? What can we do as Retirees to fight this?

These and many more questions were raised at an Auto Council meeting in Toronto on Monday April 6th. It is hard to comprehend the severity of the possible consequences we could all face over what may transpire over the next few crucial weeks. This letter is not intended to cause you unnecessary worry and grief but to inform you of what may happen and to build some support.

Gm and Chrysler have dominated the news over the past few months while Ford has been perceived as being safest and healthiest and most likely to succeed of the big 3. Once you start looking at Ford’s situation a little closer you find that they too are in a financial crisis. They too have borrowed billions from private institutions, this being done just before the big economic downturn when credit was more accessible.

Ford of Canada has recently been leaking anonymous information to the media in order to get a message across that Retiree Benefits and their legacy costs are too high and have to be cut in order for them to be competitive. They have also publicly stated that the GM deal did not go far enough and they want the cuts to be a lot deeper. It’s a proven fact that cuts to wages and pensions will not make a difference, even if we went without any pay at all this would only keep the company going for an extra week or two. The bottom line is they need to start selling cars, if no one buys their vehicles, no one will survive.  

Both Tony Clement and Dalton McGuinty are demanding more concessions and are focusing in on Retiree pensions and benefits and are threatening to end any financial relief to GM and Chrysler if cuts are not made which in turn is encouraging Ford to ask for even more reductions.

The government does not have the legal ability to reduce or take away pensions or benefits but they want the corporations to do it. We have earned our pensions during our working life and these are contractual commitments made and cannot be resolved at the bargaining table.

These politicians are the same people that are guaranteed a lifetime pension after only two terms in office (6 Years), how dare they ask to give up ours. They are also the ones saying that no government monies will be used for pension shortfalls. They are also the same politicians that allowed the corporations to take holidays from their pension funding obligations even when the corporations were making billions of dollars in profits.

The most recent figures as of December 2008 give the funding of pensions at the Big 3 at, GM 57%, Chrysler 91% and Ford 73%. Since this time the stock markets have taken enormous hits causing these funds to drop on average anywhere from 20 to 25%. That could have the Ford pension at possibly 54% funding. In a worst case scenario in a total wind up of the Ford Pension Plan in bankruptcy a retiree would only be eligible for 54% of their pension and no benefits. 

In 1980 the Ontario government started up the PBGF (Provincial Benefit Guarantee Fund) which guaranteed a worker a minimum of $1000.00 per month in the event of a pension wind up. Since then a government task force was set up to review this plan and they came back suggesting that this amount be raised to $2,500 a month. In the meantime there has been talk of this fund going bankrupt and the government is backing away from any commitments to fund it.

Bankruptcy could be a very real option and the attached document should be read so you can understand what happens in this situation and how it will affect retirees. * (Click here for Document)

If what you’ve read so far has made you uneasy then you’re not alone, the CAW bargaining committee has many concerns and many variables to contend with as I’m sure you know from the media coverage. The reassuring note comes from CAW President Ken Lewenza who has committed to fight for retirees and has already put the corporations and governments on notice that retiree pensions and benefit takeaways are not on the table. In order for him and the bargaining committee to successfully achieve this they will need the support of all the retirees. Their fight is also our fight!

Who would have thought that we would be in this position today.  What happens over the next few weeks will determine what state our pension and benefits will be in for many years to come. Can we make a difference, you bet we can.  All of the things we enjoy today were not always easy to obtain and in most cases were hard fought. I believe that the time to fight to save what we have is now and we have to show that we are all in this together.

We have to show the government and the corporations that we stand together in this fight and we refuse to burden the blame for the global financial meltdown and become pawns where the little guy, who can least afford it has to make all the sacrifices.  We have to let them know that they have no right to touch or even threaten to reduce or take away what we have earned and is rightfully ours.

On April 23, 2009, 12 Noon we will be asking all retirees and their spouses to give up a few hours to join thousands of others in a rally at Queens Park to not only show support for our union’s fight but to all other pensioners who are just as vulnerable in today’s economic climate. We cannot be silent, just your presence will make a big difference. Let’s all stand up and be counted.

If you would like to participate in this rally then please email me back with your support and I will be in contact with you as soon as more of the details become available. Please pass this message along to all your Retiree friends.  

In Solidarity,

Chris Wilski
Chairperson
CAW Local 584 Retirees Chapter

retirees@cawlocal584.com

BANKRUPTCY PROTECTION:
What Would It Mean for the Auto Industry?
(Click here for Leaflet)

***********************************************

April 18, 2009

Dear Retirees:

In the fall of each year CAW Loc.584 invites all our retirees and their spouses, to our annual Thanksgiving Dinner. This event becomes more and more successful every year but still there are a number of you that do not participate, I guarantee if you attend you‘ll be thoroughly delighted with meeting friends from the plant that you haven't seen in a while or just re-new past acquaintances (I hesitate to use old). Participation as a group is what it’s all about.These are times of celebration and like now, times of crisis and survival.

Hopefully you have been keeping pace lately with the crisis in the economy, more specifically the Auto Industry. And surely by now you must realize retirees have become the latest scapegoats for the Corporations, the Federal and Provincial governments and let’s not leave out the fence sitting media.

Now imagine, the spokespersons for the corporations who have millions stashed away in offshore accounts from the hours we toiled for the past 30-40 years and they will get millions more when they leave. Then you have the likes of Harper, Clement, McGuinty and Flaherty, people who have held office for short periods of time with good wages and lucrative expense accounts, and after two terms in office (6yrs.,) will receive indexed pensions for LIFE worth more than you were making working overtime. Now they are sticking their noses in the collective agreement process the parties agreed upon. These nervy conceited politicians are doing everything possible to crush unions. They want to steal what benefits we have left, and drive our pension income into poverty levels.

What concessions did they demand when the banks and the financial communities were getting billions of your tax dollars? No (they say) we will go back and we’ll kick the working class again, the pensioners, they're vulnerable, pushovers. Watch the news, everyday you see Lewenza and his CAW leadership fighting to keep our industry alive, making sure retirees, their spouses, partners, and surviving spouses maintain what income and benefits we have left, yet still work out some compromise suitable to get this economy back on its feet.

In my 30-40 years of involvement, no CAW or UAW leader has ever been faced with a crisis of this magnitude, this new young courageous leader and his peers who inherited this mess, need to know that WE will be there for them on APRIL 23/09 We all have a responsibility to participate and support our cause, call your friends neighbors, car pool to the buses.

We need your participation now and let’s show them that our pensions can’t be touched.

Call or e-mail if you can attend. Contact Chris at cwilski@rogers.com or Frank at frank@3ringstudios.com or phone 519 534-1776

Fraternally,  
Frank Marek 
Vice Chair
Loc.584 Retirees               

CAW LOCAL 584 IN-PLANT ELECTION RESULTS

RUNOFF ELECTION RESULTS

Alt. Committeeperson- Shift 3

            Vito Bellomo     109    Elected

                                         Terri Fletcher           65 

Total Ballots:  175

Spoiled Ballots: 1

Alternate Benefit Rep

Geoff Riddle    84

             Melony Luffman    89     Elected

Total Ballots:  175

Spoiled Ballots:  2

Recording Secretary

Dan Armstrong   163    Elected

                                 Mariola Lombardi   60

Total Ballots:  227

Spoiled Ballots:  4

Trustee (3)

Chris Moody   162    Elected

Alison White   162    Elected

Kim Timmins   134    Elected

                                   Pat Riley   123         

Spoiled Ballots: 2

Sergeant at Arms

John Honcharsky   143    Elected

                               Arlene Rudolph       81

Total Ballots:  227

Spoiled Ballots:  3

Plant Chairperson

Kim Clout   109    Elected

                                      Richard Green   31

                                      Tim Borden   67

Total Ballots: 209

Spoiled Ballots:  2

Committeeperson – Shift 2

Gary Rumboldt  119     Elected

                                  John McCloskey   88

Total Ballots:  209

Spoiled Ballots:  2

Committeeperson – Shift 3

Damien Long  109    Elected

                                    Bryan Levasseur   99

Total Ballots:  209

Spoiled Ballots:  1

Alternate
Committeeperson – Shift 3

Terri Fletcher   85    Run-off

Vito Bellomo   93    Run-off

                                    Andrew Calbery   30

Total Ballots:  209

Spoiled Ballots:  1

Alternate Benefit Rep

Melony Luffman   69    Run-off

                                 Claudio Parise   57

                                 Geoff Riddle   80    Run-off

Total Ballots:  209

Spoiled Ballots:  3

Education Chairperson

Mark Machado   135    Elected

                                  Chris Englund   85

Total Ballots:  227

Spoiled Ballots:  7

Human Rights Chairperson

Ariff Azees   136     Elected

                                    Melony Luffman   85

Total Ballots:  227

Spoiled Ballots:  6

Women's Committee Chairperson

Lisa Bogden   147    Elected

                                    Tammy Dempsey   75

Total Ballots:  227

Spoiled Ballots:  5

Alternate EAP Rep

                                   Michelle Harwood   67

Glen Swatman   138    Elected

Total Ballots:  209

Spoiled Ballots:  4

CAW Council Delegate (2)

                                Kim Clout   109    Elected

Dave Champagne   161    Elected

                               Gary Rumboldt   64

                               Richard Green   33

                               Tim Borden   65

Spoiled Ballots:  1

CAW Convention Delegate (2)

                                Kim Clout   124    Elected

Dave Champagne   183    Elected

Terri Fletcher   40

Tim Borden   83
Spoiled Ballots:  3

*******************

Nominations

President.                               Dave Champagne             Acclaimed

Vice President.                       Ken Donaldson                Acclaimed

Financial Secretary.                Arvin Gangwar                 Acclaimed

Recording Secretary.              Dan Armstrong                 Accept
                                              Mariola Lombardi             Accept

                                                 
                                                
Trustee (3 Required)              Chris Moody                    Accept
                                              Alison White                    Accept
                                              Kim Timmins                    Accept
                                              Pat Riley                           Accept
                                                 

Guide.                                    Barb Morrison                  Acclaimed
                                                 

Sergeant at Arms.                      
                                              John Honcharsky              Accept
                                              Arlene Rudolph                Accept

Plant Chairperson.                  Kim Clout                        Accept
                                              Richard Green                  Accept
                                              Tim Borden                      Accept

Committee Person                 Gary Rumboldt                  Accept
#2 shift.                                  John McCloskey               Accept

Committee Person                  Bryan Lavasseur               Accept
#3 shift.                                  Damien Long                    Accept

Alternate Committee Person   Justin James                      Acclaimed
#2 shift.                                         
                                                     

Alternate Committee Person   Terri Fletcher                    Accept
#3 shift.                                  Vito Bellomo                    Accept
                                              Andrew Calberry              Accept
                                                     

Health and Safety.                  Thayne Smith                     Acclaimed

Alternate Health and Safety.   Steve Burns                       Acclaimed

Benefits.                                 Sharon Burton                   Acclaimed

Alternate Benefits.                  Melony Luffman                Accept
                                              Claudio Parise                   Accept
                                              Geoff Riddle                     Accept

Education Chairperson.           Mark Machado                Accept
                                              Chris Englund                    Accept
                                                     

Social Services Chairperson.  Penny McCabe                 Acclaimed
                                                                     

Recreation Chairperson.         Sandy Pitman                    Acclaimed

Human Rights Chairperson.    Ariff Azees                        Accept
                                              Melony Luffman                Accept

Women's Committee              Lisa Bodgen                      Accept
Chairperson.                          Tammy Dempsey               Accept

Women's Advocate.                      
                                              Vacant

EAP.                                      Michelle Harwood            Accept
                                              Glen Swatman                   Accept
                                                       

Alternate EAP.                       Nasir Naghar                    Acclaimed

By-laws Committee                Tammy Dempsey              Acclaimed
2 required.                             1 Position Vacant
                                                      
CAW Council                        Kim Clout                         Accept
2 required.                             Dave Champagne              Accept
                                             Gary Rumboldt                   Accept
                                              Richard Green                   Accept
                                              Tim Borden                       Accept

CAW Convention                  Kim Clout                         Accept
2 required.                             Dave Champagne              Accept
                                              Terri Fletcher                    Accept
                                              Tim Borden                      Accept
                                                    

Labour Council Delegate        Damien Long                     Acclaimed
 3 required                              Penny McCabe                 Acclaimed
                                              John McCloskey               Acclaimed

Election Committee

Retiree Bob Stevenson Voting
                                                   

Ontario motorists can now apply for the new high-security enhanced drivers' licences that will be among the only documents U.S. border guards will accept as proof of identification starting June 1, but the odds of getting one by the deadline are tight.

Transportation Minister Jim Bradley unveiled the new licences yesterday, acknowledging that everyone who wants one will "probably not" get one by the deadline because 15-minute interviews required as part of the application process won't begin until May 19.

"Some will but not all," Bradley told reporters, suggesting passports are an alternative that can be used more widely because the licences are good only for land and water crossings to the U.S.

The new licences are proof of Canadian citizenship and contain a radio frequency identification chip.

The Liberals took too long to get the new licences out and missed their own winter deadline, which could hamper traffic flow across the border for some people, said Progressive Conservative transportation critic John O'Toole.

"You didn't get it done," he charged in the Legislature.

The licences, which cost $40 on top of the $75 licence fee, are available only at ServiceOntario centres in nine major cities – not at transportation ministry licence bureaus.

Ontario’s Drinking &
Driving Law is changing.

On May 1st, 2009 new sanctions come into effect in Ontario to prevent drinking and driving and increase road safety. 

What's changing?

Currently, a driver who is stopped by police in Ontario and who is found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 0.05 and 0.08 (more commonly known as the warn range) would have their driver's licence immediately suspended for 12 hours.  The suspension wouldn't be recorded or tracked.
 
Effective May 1st, warn range driver's licence suspensions will be tracked and drivers will face new, increasing sanctions:

First Time:

*           three-day licence suspension
*           $150 Administrative Monetary Penalty

Second Time (within five years):

*           seven-day licence suspension
*           Mandatory alcohol education program
*           $150 Administrative Monetary Penalty

Third Time (within five years):

*           30-day licence suspension
*           Mandatory alcohol treatment program
*           Six-month ignition interlock licence condition
*           $150 Administrative Monetary Penalty

Subsequent infractions (within five years):

*           30-day licence suspension
*           Mandatory alcohol treatment program 
*           Six-month ignition interlock
*           Mandatory medical evaluation
*           $150 Administrative Monetary Penalty

These roadside licence suspensions cannot be appealed. Suspensions will be recorded on the driver’s record. For up to five years, these roadside suspensions will be considered when determining consequences for subsequent infractions.

The introduction of these new sanctions is an important change to help prevent drinking and driving and promote community safety.

For further information on impaired driving sanctions and road safety in Ontario, please visit the the Ministry of Transportation's Web site (www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/impaired/index.shtml).  For information about how alcohol affects the body, blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and factors that affect BAC, please click here (www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/impaired/fact-sheet.shtml#bac).

Please drink and host responsibly.  If you are planning to drink, the safest choice is not to drive.  As a host, please encourage your guests to use designated drivers, take public transit or taxis.    

The Beatles

JUST CLICK ON THE TITLE OF THE SONG YOU WANT TO HEAR AND SEE THE VIDEO-CLIP (ADDITIONALY YOU WILL HAVE THE WORDING OF THE SONG AS WELL AS SOME OTHER INFO RELATED TO THAT PARTICULAR SONG !!

View any Newspaper from any city in the world

CLICK HERE

2009 Academy Award Winners

A list of winners at last night's Academy Awards:

Picture: Slumdog Millionaire

Director: Danny Boyle, Slumdog Millionaire

Actor: Sean Penn, Milk

Actress: Kate Winslet, The Reader

Supporting Actor: Heath Ledger, The Dark Knight

Supporting Actress: Penélope Cruz, Vicky Barcelona

Adapted Screenplay: Simon Beaufoy, Slumdog Millionaire

Original Screenplay: Dustin Lance Black, Milk

Foreign-Language Film: Departures

Animated Feature Film: WALL-E

Animated Short Film: La Maison en Petits Cubes

Cinematography: Slumdog Millionaire

Costume Design: The Duchess

Art Direction: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Makeup: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Live Short Film: Spielzeugland (Toyland)

Documentary Feature: Man on Wire

Documentary Short: Smile Pinki

Visual Effects: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Sound Editing: The Dark Knight

Sound Mixing: Slumdog Millionaire

Original Score: Slumdog Millionaire

Original Song: "Jai Ho" from Slumdog Millionaire

FLASHBACK

Ford workers accept pact
Security from sudden layoffs cited as a key benefit

September 24, 1990

Bob Luffman, Steve Godsoe, Tony King, Bob Bates, Bill Russell, Chris Wilski, Neil Cunning and Ernie Mackay 
(Left to right)

Torontro Star
(thanks to Bob Luffman & Ross Lowery for this submission)

CAW CHRYSLER BARGAINING REPORT MAY 2008
Click Here

The CAW and Panic Bargaining:

Early Opening at the Big Three

Sam Gindin - May 2008

Read it here

Read Bob White's Response to this article

Adobe Reader is required & Available Here

It's an inevitable question when looking for a flat-panel HDTV these days: Will it be plasma or LCD?

It was easier when there were only cathode-ray tubes and choice came down to size and brand. Now, we are confronted with different and confusing technology options. How do you choose between plasmas and LCDs?

Price could be one way.

Plasma HDTVs 50-inches or larger cost less than similar sized LCD HDTVs, but the price gap is closing, especially with the popular 42- to 46-inch sizes.

As for life expectancy, both plasmas and LCDs are capable of running around 60,000 hours, or eight hours a day for 20 years, before half brightness occurs. And they are both now capable of an exceptional 1080p HD resolution.

Plasmas are known to be somewhat of an electricity hog, but Barry Murray, marketing director at Panasonic Canada, feels that tag is a bit unfair.

"Government regulations require plasmas to list the maximum watts used, when, in fact, they consume closer to half that power in real-world conditions," he says. "Plasmas light each pixel individually, as required, but LCDs always have a backlight running and block the light to produce colours."

With all this in mind, how do we choose?

Ultimately, it comes down to how you want to use your HDTV.

If you are a videophile looking for the true home-theatre experience, an HDTV plasma might be the way to go.

Generally, plasmas are known for their superior picture performance because they can display truer black colours than LCDs. Plasmas can run a very low level of luminance to create the colour black and have higher contrast ratios than LCDs, producing a more detailed true-to-life picture.

LCD HDTVs are no slouches on picture quality but they still can't block out enough of the underlying backlight to produce the same level of blacks as plasmas.

Plasmas are also believed to offer smoother and more realistic video motion with quicker pixel refresh rates, but LCDs are quickly catching up.

The new 120Hz refresh technology being incorporated in LCDs is considered one of the biggest breakthroughs in some time, according to Patrick Lapointe, director of marketing for LCDs at Sony Canada.

"Our MotionFlow technology (120Hz refresh) provides smoother motion and seamless action for sports scenes," he says. "By doubling the number of frames on the screen every second, the eye perceives much less judder (instability) and blurriness than before."

Viewing angles are also better on plasmas, up to an extreme 160 degrees. At that angle, you would be just about beside the screen with no loss of brightness or colour saturation. Higher-end LCDs like ones from Sony have decent viewing angles and are fine for most family room seating arrangement.

Of course, if you don't have an HDTV set-top box from your television program provider or a Blu-ray DVD player, you just won't get the video quality you'd expect. If your TV set-top box or DVD player doesn't support the new HDMI interface, they probably don't provide HD video.

If you plan to also hookup a PC/Mac or a game console such as an Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3, you might want to consider an LCD HDTV.

While plasmas can do an excellent job projecting these, they still have a slight risk of burn-in, a permanent ghostlike image associated with prolonged display of a static image. LCD HDTVs are immune to burn-in so they are the safe bet, but they do suffer from stuck or dead pixels (permanently lit or unlit).

Another reason to consider an LCD is viewing distance. LCDs tend to have a smoother picture in a shorter viewing distance, making it optimal for using a computer or game console with it when you want to get up close. But note that if you are hooking up a computer, you won't get a decent picture unless it has a DVI or HDMI video card.

The language of high-def TV

HDTV: High-definition television, a standard agreed upon in 1997 by the "Grand Alliance" of electronics manufacturers and content providers. It was the first major upgrade since the advent of TV just after World War II. Involves three major resolutions: 720p, 1080i and 1080p.

RESOLUTION: A measure of the amount of picture information used in a TV image; closely correlated to image quality.

The three major resolutions refer to the number of horizontal lines used; the letter refers to whether scanning is done in progressive or interlaced fashion.

SCANNING: The number of times an image is flashed on the screen per second. Two types: progressive, which displays all lines with each scan, and interlaced, which alternates between even and odd numbers with each scan.

PIXELS: Derived from "picture elements." Horizontal and vertical lines on a modern digital television are made up of pixels.

The more pixels, the better the image quality. HDTVs with a resolution of 1080p use more than 2 million pixels – 1,920x1,080 – which is more than 60 times more than standard-definition televisions (230x300).

FLAT PANEL: Modern digital televisions based on either plasma or LCD technology that are thin enough (less than 6 inches or so) to hang on a wall. Also called "direct view."

PROJECTION: Types of television based on either front- or rear-projection technology.

Rear-projection models are much larger and deeper than direct-view flat panels and are, generally speaking, being replaced by them.

Front-projection units, based on LCD or digital-light-processing (DLP) technology, are an excellent alternative for large-screen images in certain optimized conditions, but there are disadvantages.

LCD: Liquid crystal display, the major rival to plasma in large-screen, flat-panel HDTVs.

PLASMA: The major rival in large-screen, flat-panel HDTVs.

CRT: Cathode ray technology, the large, bulbous TV tubes most of us grew up watching.

Excellent picture quality, but not capable of being made in sizes larger than 35 inches or so. Very few manufacturers make them at all any more.

BLU-RAY: One of two major high-resolution technologies competing to replace DVDs.

HD DVD: The other major high-resolution technology competing to replace DVDs.

DVI: Digital video interface, a hardware/software protocol for linking computers to televisions. Likely to be replaced by HDMI.

PROGRESSIVE SCANNING: All image lines are displayed simultaneously with each scan.

INTERLACED SCANNING: Even and odd lines of a TV image are displayed alternately with each scan.

DOLBY DIGITAL SURROUND: Also known as AC3 or 5.1 surround. It's the main audio specification under the HDTV and DVD specifications.

It calls for the encoding of five discreet digital channels of audio (the "5") and one subwoofer channel (the "1").

To play it properly, the end user must have a "Dolby Digital" receiver with five discrete amplifiers (one for each channel of audio), five identical full-range speakers, plus one powered subwoofer.

A FATHERS TRIBUTE

This is dedicated to my Dad, Konrad Wilski. I am not only blessed with the greatest parents in the world but also blessed to have them both still here to share good times with. I want to say I love you both very much.

                    Chris

CLICK HERE TO SEE & HEAR THIS GREAT TRIBUTE TO THE VETERANS OF WW II

Also here is an account of my Dad's Story
from his early years in Poland through
the War Years from him personally.

Click here to read his own Story in his own words.

Solidarity Forever

To Play Song Click Here

When the union's inspiration through the workers' blood shall run
There can be no power greater anywhere beneath the sun
Yet what force on earth is weaker than the feeble strength of one
For the Union makes us strong

Chorus
Solidarity forever, solidarity forever
Solidarity forever
For the Union makes us strong

Is there aught we hold in common with the greedy parasite 
Who would lash us into serfdom and would crush us with his might?  
Is there anything left to us but to organize and fight?  
For the union makes us strong

It is we who ploughed the prairies, built the cities where they trade
Dug the mines and built the workshops, endless miles of railroad laid
Now we stand outcast and starving 'mid the wonders we have made
But the union makes us strong 

All the world  that's owned by idle drones is ours and ours alone 
We have laid the wide foundations, built it skyward stone by stone 
It is ours, not to slave in, but to master and to own  
While the union makes us strong

They have taken untold millions that they never toiled to earn
But without our brain and muscle not a single wheel can turn
We can break their haughty power gain our freedom when we learn
That the Union makes us strong

 In our hands is placed a power greater than their hoarded gold
Greater than the might of armies magnified a thousandfold
We can bring to birth a new world from the ashes of the old
For the Union makes us strong

***************************

Solidarité Mes Frères Et Mes Soeurs

Paroles françaises: J. Baumgarten 1915

Nous engraissons le capital et ses usines
Enchaînés du matin au soir à la machine
Pour notre peine, des salaires de famine
Mais l'union nous rendra forts

Refrain
Solidarité mes frères et mes soeurs
Solidarité mes frères et mes soeurs
Solidarité mes frères et mes soeurs
Ensemble nous vaincrons

Mais si un jour nous arrêtons tous nos machines
Mais si un jour nous occupons tous nos usines
Puissants patrons vous ferez alors tristes mines
Car l'union nous rendra forts.

En combattant pour elle, la classe ouvrière
Apportera un ordre nouveau sur la terre
Au coude à coude restons unis, prolétaires
C'est l'union qui nous rend forts. 

***********************************

Notes

Ralph Chaplin was a poet , artist, writer and organiser for the Industrial Workers of the World. He wrote this song in 1915 just six months before his fellow IWW songwriter Joe Hill was executed. It was to become the anthem of the American labour movement. It goes to the tune of the American Civil War song John Brown's Body. Ralph Chaplin said "I wanted a song to be full of revolutionary fervour and to have a chorus that was singing and defiant"

Thanks to Bernard Carney for permission to use his version of the song from his 1996 CD "Stand Together". Visit Bernard's website at http://bernardcarney.com/

10 Q&A's on Canadian
Pension Income Splitting

Q.1 What is pension income splitting?

A.1 Beginning with 2007 income tax returns, Canadian residents will generally be able to allocate up to one-half of their income that qualifies for the existing pension income tax credit to their resident spouse (or common-law partner) for income tax purposes.
The amount allocated is deducted in determining the net income of the person who actually received the pension income, and it is included in computing the net income of the spouse or common-law partner. Pension splitting affects the calculation of income and tax payable for both persons, so they must both agree to the allocation in their tax returns for the year in question.

Q.2 Is it necessary to contact the payer of the pension?

A.2 Splitting eligible pension income does not have any effect on how or to whom the pension income is paid, so it does not involve the payer of the pension. Information slips will be prepared and sent to the recipient of the pension income in the same manner as previous years.

Q.3 Who qualifies for pension income splitting?

A.3 A pension recipient (pensioner) and his or her spouse or common-law partner can elect to split the pensioner's “eligible pension income” received in the year if:
• they are married or in a common-law partnership with each other in the year and are not, because of a breakdown in their marriage or common-law partnership, living separate and apart from each other at the end of the year and for a period of 90 days commencing in the year; and
• they are both resident in Canada on December 31; or
o if deceased in the year, resident in Canada on the date of death; or
o if bankrupt in the year, resident in Canada on December 31 of the calendar year in which the tax year (pre- or post-bankruptcy) ends.

Q.4 What is “eligible pension income”?

A.4 Eligible pension income is generally the total of the following amounts received by the pensioner in the year (these amounts also qualify for the pension income amount):
• the taxable part of annuity payments from a superannuation or pension fund or plan; and
• if received as a result of the death of a spouse or common-law partner, or if the pensioner is age 65 or older at the end of the year:
o annuity and registered retirement income fund (including life income fund) payments; and
o Registered Retirement Savings Plan annuity payments.
Note: Old Age Security and Canada or Quebec Pension Plan payments do not qualify. And, payments from an unfunded supplementary employee retirement plan (SERP) do not qualify .

Q.5 How do individuals elect to split eligible pension income?

A.5 The pensioner and spouse or common-law partner have to make a joint election in prescribed form with their income tax returns for the year on or before their filing due date (generally April 30 of the year following the tax year, or June 15 if self-employed). The new Form T1032, Joint Election to Split Pension Income, will be available by January 2008. The 2007 income tax return will include a new line for the pensioner to deduct the amount of pension allocated to the spouse or common-law partner. A new line will also be added for the spouse or common-law partner to report the allocated pension income.

Q.6 Who will claim the tax withheld at source from the eligible pension income?

A.6 The income tax that is withheld at source from the eligible pension income will have to be allocated from the pensioner to the spouse or common-law partner in the same proportion as the pension income is allocated.

Q.7 Will pension income splitting affect the pension income amount?

A.7 The pensioner will be able to claim whichever amount is less: $2,000 or the amount of his or her eligible pension income after excluding amounts allocated to his or her spouse or common-law partner.
The spouse or common-law partner will be able to claim whichever amount is less: $2,000 or the amount of his or her pension income that is eligible for the pension income amount, including the allocated pension income.
Note: A pension that qualifies for the pension income amount in the hands of the pensioner does not necessarily qualify for the pension income amount in the spouse or common-law partner's hands because eligibility can depend on age (see Q.4).

Q.8 Does pension splitting affect the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) credit, Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB), and other federal or provincial benefits and tax credits?

A.8 Allocating pension income to a spouse or common-law partner reduces the pensioner's net income and increases the spouse or common-law partner's net income. As a result, benefits and tax credits that are calculated based on the total of the net incomes of both spouses or common-law partners—such as the GST/HST credit, CCTB, and related provincial or territorial benefits—will not change as a result of pension splitting.

However, pension splitting will affect any tax credits and benefits that are calculated using one individual's net income, such as the age amount, the spouse or common-law partner amount, and the repayment of Old Age Security benefits.

Q.9 If pensioners intend to split pension income when filing their returns, can they ask for a reduction of tax being withheld from the eligible pension income during the year?

A.9 The CRA cannot approve a reduction of tax withheld at source based on an election to split pension income.

Q.10 If pensioners intend to make this election when filing their 2007 returns, can they reduce their instalment payments?

A.10 Many individuals, including pensioners, are required to pay tax by instalments, and the CRA issues instalment reminders to them indicating the amounts to be paid by each instalment due date. However, as an alternative to paying the amounts shown on the reminders, instalment payments can instead be made based on either the individual's prior-year net tax owing and CPP payable, or his or her estimated current-year net tax owing and CPP payable.

Under the current-year option, an individual can estimate his or her current-year net tax owing for 2007 based on the intention to split pension income. However, if the instalment payments are insufficient, instalment interest may be charged. More information about instalment payments and instalment interest charges is available in Pamphlet P110, Paying Your Income Tax by Instalments.

An Old Man’s Last Stand

When an old man died in the geriatric ward of a small hospital near Tampa, Florida, it was believed that he had nothing left of any value.

Later, when the nurses were going through his meager possessions, They found this poem. Its quality and content so impressed the staff that copies were made and distributed to every nurse in the hospital.

One nurse took her copy to Missouri . The old man's sole bequest to posterity has since appeared in the Christmas edition of the News Magazine of the St. Louis Association for Mental Health.  A slide presentation has also been made based on his simple, but eloquent, poem.

And this little old man, with nothing left to give to the world, is now the author of this " anonymous" poem winging across the Internet.


Crabby Old Man

What do you see nurses? ..What do you see?
What are you thinking.....when you're looking at me?
A crabby old man, ...not very wise,
Uncertain of habit .......with faraway eyes?

Who dribbles his food.......and makes no reply.
When you say in a loud voice....."I do wish you'd try!"
Who seems not to notice .the things that you do.
And forever is losing .......... A sock or shoe?

Who, resisting or not...........lets you do as you will,
With bathing and feeding .... The long day to fill?
Is that what you're thinking?   Is that what you see?
Then open your eyes, nurse......you're not looking at me.

I'll tell you who I am .......... As I sit here so still,
As I do at your bidding, .....as I eat at your will.
I'm a small child of Ten.......with a father and mother,
Brothers and sisters .......who love one another

A young boy of Sixteen ..with wings on his feet
Dreaming that soon now. .......a lover he'll meet.
A groom soon at Twenty ......my heart gives a leap.
Remembering, the vows......that I promised to keep.

At Twenty-Five, now .......... I have young of my own.
Who need me to guide .... And a secure happy home.
A man of Thirty ....... My young now grown fast,
Bound to each other ........ With ties that should last.

At Forty, my young sons ...have grown and are gone,
But my woman's beside me.......to see I don't mourn.
At Fifty, once more, ......... Babies play 'round my knee,
Again, we know children ..... My loved one and me.

Dark days are upon me ............... My wife is now dead.
I look at the future ...............I shudder with dread.
For my young are all rearing......young of their own.

And I think of the years....... And the love that I've known.

I'm now an old man.........and nature is cruel.
Tis jest to make old age ......look like a fool.
The body, it crumbles..........grace and vigor, depart.
There is now a stone........where I once had a heart.

But inside this old carcass ..... A young guy still dwells,
And now and again .......my battered heart swells
I remember the joys........... I remember the pain.
And I'm loving and living.............life over again.

I think of the years ..all too few......gone too fast.
And accept the stark fact........that nothing can last.
So open your eyes, people ..........open and see..
Not a crabby old man.  Look closer....see........ME!!

Remember this poem when you next meet an older person who you might brush aside without looking at the young soul within.....we will all, one day, be there, too!