North Country Residents Told to "Grow Up"

Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff wants us North Country residents to "grow up".

"It's time to grow up and recognize that if we're serious about this threat, we've got to take reasonable, measured but nevertheless determined steps to getting better security," he said in an interview with The Associated Press.

He said this concerning the new border crossing rules that will go into effect in a couple of weeks. Showing a US drivers license will not be enought to get you back into the USA from Canada.

Under the new system, which takes effect Jan. 31, Americans and Canadians who are 19 or older will have to present proof of citizenship when they seek to enter the United States through a land or sea port of entry. A passport will be fine. Or a birth certificate coupled with some other ID such as a driver's license.

Personally, I think Rep. McHugh and Rep. Gillibrand should walk into Sec. Chertoff's office and flip him the big bird. The North Country economy is bad enough without making it more diffcult for Canadians to cross the border.

To be fair, Rep. McHugh has spoken out against the implementation of these stricter border crossing rules.

"I am disappointed with reports the DHS intends to proceed with implementation of new border document requirements despite resounding opposition from Congress," McHugh said in a press release.

So, those of you without a passport better find a birth certificate otherwise you can forget about going to or from Canada. Need to get a new birth certificate. If you were born in NY you can go here. There are also commercial companies that you can use to obtain a birth certificate.