Families are the tie that reminds us of yesterday, provide strength and support today, and give us hope for tomorrow. No government, no matter how well-intentioned, or well-managed, can provide what our families provide.

As I come to the close of my tenure as CEO, I am pleased that Nortel can now move from this phase of stabilization with the foundation we've built over the past 19 months,

It's going to be an essential headquarters location for some of the worldwide operations as well as geographically for North America.

Leadership offers an opportunity to make a difference in someone's life, no matter what the project.

We must renew our efforts to keep our communities safe, from the dangers of terrorists from foreign lands and from common criminals here at home. Let no criminal believe that tough fiscal times will yield an open cell door and a ticket to freedom.

A renewed commitment to the freedom and opportunity of our people is the touchstone of our time. In this new century, where tests are many and challenges change with the shifting of the wind, we must hold fast to the principles that have made our nation the envy of the world.